01.07.14
TUESday
FOR GOD AND COUNTRY
No. 2,214
N150
NIGERIA’S MOST INFLUENTIAL NEWSPAPER
Chibok Diary
DAY 78
Mastermind Of Schoolgirls' Abduction Arrested > Page 2
Langtang North LG Poll: Court Rules In Favour Of Dul BY ACHOR ABIMAJE, Jos
Plateau State High Court in Barkin Local Government Council of the state presided over by Justice S.P. Gang has struck out mandamus proceedings by the Peoples
Democratic Party (PDP) in respect of Langtang North local government election. LEADERSHIP recalls that following the conduct of Plateau
State local government election on the February 25, 2014, the electoral officer of Langtang north announce the results of all the ward but one, while Plateau
Oil Spill Pollutes 3 Communities In A’Ibom > Page 5
State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) ordered a rerun for Jat ward. But, PDP went to court to compel PLASIEC to add the result of Jat ward and declare ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
World Cup: Keshi, Yobo Resign After France Defeat > Page 53
chibok area attack
I Lost 8 In-laws In Kwala Attack – Survivor 5
Death toll rises to 105 Insurgents hit Shani village, bomb police station
Indian policemen use sticks to disperse youth wing workers of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during a protest outside the state assembly in the northern Indian city of Lucknow, yesterday. Photo by reuters
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chibok diary 78
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
DAY
Chibok Tweets
@dishdtrish Now that the boys are heading back home, it's time to focus on #BringBackOurGirls @bveltrop72 Nigeria is out of the World Cup. We have not forgotten. #BringBackOurGirls #BringBackOurGirls #BringBackOurGirls #BringBackOurGirls @Princekunle As Super Eagles are through with the #WorldCup2014, now back to the matter #BringBackOurGirls #BringBackOurGirls. @africainmotion Finally the #WorldCup2014 party is over and Nigerians can fully concentrate on getting her incomptetent govt to #BringBackOurGirls @FisayoCheck How amazing it is to find it easier and faster to #BringBackOurBoys rather than #BringBackOurGirls @Mvphenryeto Now that our boys are back pls #BringBackOurGirls @iamTundeObe Well... That's over.. We can now get back to the challenges that face us as a Nation... #BringBackOurGirls, jooooor! @deoluakinyemi Now that we are #BringingBackOurBoys, it's time to ensure we also #BringBackOurGirls Keshi tried to rely on Goodluck :)
Mastermind Of Schoolgirls Abduction Arrested by Bayo Oladeji, Abuja
An intelligence cell of the Boko Haram sect, headed by a businessman who participated actively in the abduction of the schoolgirls from Government Girls’ Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State, has been busted by troops. The man, Babuji Ya’ari, who is also a member of the Youth Vigilante Group popularly known as Civilian JTF, which he uses as a cover while remaining an active insurgent, also spearheaded the murder of the emir of Gwoza. His main role in the group is to spy and gather information for the sect.
Babuji, according to a statement issued by the Defence Headquarters yesterday by its spokesman, Major General Chris Olukolade, has coordinated several deadly attacks in Maiduguri since 2011, including the daring attacks on Customs and military locations, as well as the planting of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in several locations in the town. The arrest of the businessman, who is known to deal in tricycles, has also yielded some vital information and facilitated the arrest of other members of the intelligence cell who are women. One of them, Hafsat Bako, had earlier escaped to Gombe State to
COMPILED BY UGOCHUKWU IROKA
Ya’ari
an encounter with insurgents, resulting in casualties on both sides, after the attack was successfully repelled.
International Community Has Not Abandoned Our Girls – Chibok Elder BY Chika Mefor, Ejike Ejike, Abuja
Against the backdrop of reports in some national dallies that the United States has no clue about the whereabouts of the over 200 abducted Chibok schoolgirls, one of the Chibok elders in the FCT, Dr Wakil Chibok, has stated that the international community had not forgotten the girls who were abducted on April 14 this year, as they continue to hold rallies in support of their rescue. Chibok, who was speaking in an interview with LEADERSHIP during a meeting of the BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) campaign group at the Unity Fountain in Abuja, said that his trips to South Africa, India and Japan showed that people in those countries were also worried about the plight of the abducted girls and were praying earnestly for their safe return. “They were all in the red shirts bearing the #BringBackOurGirls, but in India, they divided the T-shirt into two. One side carries the inscription, Stop Rape, because they have witnessed high rate of rape and the other side is about our girls. In Japan, the group meets once a week,” he said. Chibok stated that the people he met wanted updates on the missing girls, those that had escaped and how the parents of the girls were faring. He added that in India, about 10 doctors promised to come to Nigeria to work with the girls through the post-trauma healing process and ease them back to normal life, when they were returned to their families. “The journey to those states encouraged us, because we now know that our girls have not been
CHIBOK TRENDING
forgotten by the international community, who are also praying earnestly for their safe return,” he said. It is noteworthy that after 77 days of search for the girls, United States security experts currently offering technical assistance to their Nigerian counterparts, came to the media and stated that they
don’t have a clue as to where the girls are. This was promptly followed by a reduction in aerial surveillance by the US team, thereby generating reports that the international community may be tired of the rescue mission and may have decided to pull out their troops systematically.
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE IN NUMBERS LONDON
In the United Kingdom there are 4.2million closed circuit TV cameras. The equivalent of 1 for every 14 people
14 : 1
CHICAGO
Chicago city have more CCTV cameras than New York city, about 1 to 180 people
180 : 1
BEIJIN
China has a population of 1.3billion, with about 2.7million CCVT cameras, the eqivalent of 1 for every 472,000 of it’s citizens
472,000 :1
NIGERIA
168.8million : 0
Upcoming Events Wednesday Rally in Santa Cruz, California, USA
avoid suspicion, but was tracked down and arrested. Prior to her arrest, Hafsat coordinated the payment of other operatives on the payroll of the group. In her confession, she disclosed that a minimum of N10,000 is paid to each operative, depending on the enormity of the task. Another female suspect named Haj Kaka, who serves as an armourer and a spy for the group, has also been arrested. Until their arrest, all the suspects actively operated the intelligence cell in collaboration with others still at large. In another development, troops deployed in Goniri in Yobe State, over the weekend had
#BringBackOurGirls group during its meeting in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO
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our stand Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Shock And Sportsmanship In Ekiti
N
o doubt, the result of the governorship election held in Ekiti State on June 21 has shocked the world. An incumbent governor who has performed excellently in almost four years was defeated by a candidate whose strongest campaign point was a promise to provide “stomach infrastructure”. More shocking was the margin between the two leading candidates: PDP’s Ayo Fayose scored 203, 090 votes while Governor Kayode Fayemi of the APC got 120, 433 votes; the third candidate, Michael Bamidele of the Labour Party, garnered only 18, 135 votes. Against the popular verdict that the election was free and fair, the APC has indicated that it would contest the outcome of the poll in court. It cites as reasons INEC’s insistence on the use of only permanent voter cards that disenfranchised mainly APC members, the harassment of APC chieftains (including APC governors who were stopped from entering Ekiti for the party candidate’s final rally before Election Day) by security agents and the influence of two minsters who were crisscrossing the state unchallenged. Governor Fayemi, who did not take the above lapses into consideration before conceding defeat and congratulating the winner,
deserves acclaim, however. By accepting INEC’s result of the election, he has shown other Nigerian politicians that election is not do or die, as a former president once suggested. His was sportsmanship at its best. If, indeed, the people of Ekiti State voted for Fayose, we have little reason to doubt their judgement. That is the beauty of democracy – the beauty of “one man, one vote” – and the people deserve the kind of leader they will get. From the reviews received since the polls, one can conclude that the electorate voted against Governor Fayemi, not because he had not done well but because they saw another candidate who could splash rice and cash on them. Little wonder someone said that democracy cannot thrive where
Editor Sadiq Abdullateef Deputy Editors Kazeem Akintunde Christian Ochiama Editorial Board Safiya M. Adamu, Chairman Standards Aniebo Nwamu, Director ’Lara Olugbemi, Assistant Director
there are empty stomachs. Since this could happen in a state with some of the most educated people in the country, then, poverty and ignorance should be considered a real threat to the nation’s hardearned democracy. A great challenge has been thrown to the PDP candidate, Fayose. On assumption of office in October, he should endeavour to fulfil all his promises to the voters. His first outing as governor, between 2003 and 2006, was almost a disaster; his quarrel with then president Obasanjo led to his impeachment by the state House of Assembly. Once bitten, twice shy, it is said. While we await the outcome of litigations that are certain to follow, we enjoin INEC to continue to correct its mistakes in subsequent elections. It should prevent the government, state or federal, from over-militarising elections. Election is not war. If the over 20, 000 operatives said to have been sent to Ekiti for the polls had been deployed to the north-east for fighting terrorists, the country would have been better off today. Also, the electoral law forbids persecution of opponents. No matter what monitors say about the Ekiti polls, INEC should be ready to prosecute all electoral offenders. Or, were there none in Ekiti on that day?
Founder Sam Nda-Isaiah Chairman Hajiya Ireti Kingibe Group Managing Director Azubuike Ishiekwene Group Executive Directors Michael Okpere Dr Kazeem Durodoye Company Secretary/ Legal Adviser Julianne Omofuma Divisional Directors Abdulmumin Balogun Salisu Alhassan Bichi Iyobosa Uwugiaren Ademola Oladosu General Managers Joy Adekanye Aminu Abubakar Sule Zipporah D. Tanko
Leadership Holdings
Managing Director Abraham Nda-Isaiah Executive Director Nnamdi Samuel New York Office Mohammed Bello Shehu London Office Dr Bello Salihu Johannesburg Office Abiodun Oguntuase Business Manager Bilkisu Mohammed Rimi
LEADERSHIP is a national paper symbolically embedded in the nation’s capital. We shall stand up for good governance. We shall defend the interest of Nigerian people even against their rulers, and we shall raise our pen at all times in defence of what is right. These are the values by which we intend to be assessed. We shall never, ever for any reason forget the noble reason of our coming into being: For God and country!
4 news extra
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Group News Editor: Tony Amokeodo UNIABUJA: Gets New VC The governing council of the University of Abuja yesterday elected Prof Michael Adikwu of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) as the new vice chancellor, replacing Prof James Adelabu whose tenure expired yesterday. A member of the governing council of the university who sought anonymity revealed that the selection of a new VC for the university had been stalled since last week following the unavailability of the security reports on the three leading candidates, prompting the council to postpone the exercise till yesterday. Adikwu finally emerged from a long list of 124 candidates, which was later reduced to 10 and finally to three, including Professors Umaru Garba Danbatta from Kano State and Raheem Lawal from Kwara State. Michael Adikwu is a professor of Pharmacy from Benue State. The three shortlisted candidates interacted with the council for a period of 45-60 minutes each and were assessed based on appearance, reaction to questions, diction, comportment, knowledge of the workings of the university system, ability to manage crisis and attract funds. The new vice chancellor is expected to unify a divided academic community, restore academic stability and normalcy in the university. By Kuni Tyessi, Abuja
4,990 Lagos Retirees Get N26bn Contributory Pension Lagos State government yesterday said it had paid over N26,216 to about 4,990 employees who retired from the state public service under the Contributory Pension Scheme from 2010 till date. The director-general, Lagos State Pension Commission, Mr. Rotimi Adekunle Hussain, who revealed this in statement made available to journalists, said it had presented Retirement Bond Certificates worth N1.786billion as past benefits to 354 retirees of the second and concluding tranche of the eleventh batch of beneficiaries in the state. Hussain said 437 retirees were earlier paid a sum of N1. 723 billion during the first tranche presentation in April, while the state government had paid a total of N3.510,405,212.68k to 791 retirees under the two tranches of the eleventh batch. He said the present administration of Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola was determined to ensure that no employee in the state public service retired into penury. By George Okojie, Lagos
L-R: Vice President Namadi Sambo, council co-ordinator Baroness Lynda Chalker and minister of Industry,Trade and Investment Dr Olusegun Aganga at the 16th meeting of the Honorary International Investors’ Council in Abuja, yesterday. photo by REMI AKUNLEYAN
Fani-Kayode Lied Over Boko Haram – APC Threatens legal action against ex-minister By George Okojie, Lagos
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has asked Mr. Femi FaniKayode to retract his comment alleging that the APC, through its national publicity secretary Lai Mohammed, condemned the federal government for proscribing the terror group Boko Haram or face a legal action. In a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by its national publicity secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said at no time did it issue a statement condemning the proscription of Boko Haram, and challenged Mr. Fani-Kayode to produce such a statement if he was so sure the APC issued it.
It quoted Lai Mohammed as saying: “I have caused my attorneys to formally write both FaniKayode and Channel Television, where he made his allegation, to retract the statement and apologize, failing which I will sue for defamation of character. “Our position on Boko Haram has been well articulated for anyone who cares to know, but at no time did we condemn the government for proscribing it. When the state of emergency was declared on three northern states, we criticized it and we stand by that, but we did not condemn the proscription of Boko Haram. We are not Boko Haram sympathizers and we cannot be, under any circumstance,’’ APC said. The party also condemned Fani-Kayode’s description of Boko Haram as the armed wing
of the APC, saying the statement is most irresponsible, uncharitable and baseless. “Equally irresponsible and condemnable is Mr. Fani-Kayode’s deliberate distortion of statements made in the past by Gen. Muhammadu Buhari to mean that he or his party is a sympathizer of Boko Haram,’’ the party said. It said Fani-Kayode’s latterday castigation of opposition politicians, after he returned to his vomit and repudiated all the damaging statements he made publicly in the past about the PDP and the Jonathan Administration, is not based on any altruistic considerations. ‘’It is common knowledge that Mr. Fani-Kayode has been charged by the federal government with money laundering.
The trial is almost ending, and he knows he faces a certain jail term if convicted. ‘’It is therefore not impossible that Mr. Fani-Kayode may be seeking to ingratiate himself to the FG by using various media platforms to destroy the APC through accusing its leaders of being Boko Haram sponsors or that the party is bent on fielding a Muslim/Muslim ticket in next year’s presidential elections. ‘’Unfortunately, in his eagerness to please the FG and cut a deal to avoid going to jail, he has resorted to pathological lies aimed at calling the dog a bad name in order to hang it. Whatever evidence he has to prove that our party is a sponsor of Boko Haram, he should be prepared to tender such in court,’’ APC said.
Former Army Chief Dambazau Laments Use Of Military For Police Duties By Olaolu Oladipo,Lagos
A former chief of army staff, Lt.-General Abdulrahaman Bello Danbazzau, has lamented the use of the army in internal security duties that could be handled by the police. This is coming just as a former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has traced the insurgency in some parts of the northeast to ignorance, poverty and misinterpretation of Islam. Danbazzau, Tinubu and other eminent Nigerians such as the Bishop of Sokoto Catholic Diocese Most Rev Mathew Hassan Kukah, a university don Professor Larry Diamond, Minority Leader,House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila. The occasion that was also graced by Rivers State gover-
nor, Rotimi Amaechi, was the inaugural lecture of the Freedom House Democracy Lecture Series in Lagos with the theme, Nigeria’s Governance Predicament: Poverty, Terrorism and Democracy’. Speaking in his capacity as the chairman of the occasion, Danbazzau urged all Nigerians to take a collective approach to the fight against terrorism in the country even as he noted that the people of the country had resolved to live together as one big family. “It is not normal, I mean the situation we find ourselves in this country: in Nigeria today, the armed forces are the ones doing the duties of the police. “In a fight like this, the police should take the lead but the opposite is the case,” he said, adding that the momentum of
fighting the scourge must be sustained in order to achieve successs. In his welcome remarks, Tinubu, who is the convener of the group, faulted the response of the government to the problem of insurgency, saying rather than tackle the problem, the federal government has been using state institutions to harass its opponents. “This is why they shut down newspapers recently and restricted the freedom of movement by prohibiting key APC members from travelling to Ekiti State prior to the elections. That is why they deployed more security people to hover over elections in Ekiti than they can do to protect the people and tackle security challenges in Borno,” he stated. On his part, Bishop Kukah
urged caution in the way the people perceive themselves as a nation, just as he admitted that the country had underachieved since it secured independence from the British in 1960. “One of the greatest problems with us is that we have not really defined ourselves as a people; we allow others to define us. I agree with those who are agitated about the state of the nation because really this is not where we ought to be,” he said. Kukah, however, urged politicians and the ruling elite to make politics and politicking noble, especially in their utterances and conduct. Amaechi cautioned that for the nation to eradicate the scourge of corruption, the citizens must be vigilant and proactive in their engagement with those in authority.
NEWS 5
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
LIVING LIVING TOTO BE BE 100100
One health tip daily
I Lost 8 In-laws In Kwala Attack – Survivor By Kareem Haruna, Maiduguri, George Agba, Bode Gbadebo, Abuja, and Adebayo Waheed, Ibadan
DNA in a Pill The wear and tear of aging depletes your storehouse of nucleic acids, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA in every cell of your body. Replenishing your stock of these nutrients may slow down the aging process. Animal studies and limited clinical observations with humans have shown
promise for increased life span and other quality-ofhealth measurements such as increased energy, healthier skin, and reduction in age spots. You can now take nucleic acids in supplement form or simply load up on nucleic acid-rich food such as sardines, mushrooms, asparagus, wheat germ, salmon, and spinach.
Langtang North LG Poll: Court Rules In Favour Of Dul FROM COVER
the result of Langtang North LGC election. It is against this background that the DPP and its candidate in the election, Hon. Dan Dul, applied to the court to be joined in the case. The court granted the order and joined the DPP and its candidate Hon. Dan Dul as 3rd and 4th defendants as they filed a preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the court to hear the PDP motion of mandamus because
the subject matter had to do with election and only the election petition tribunal has the jurisdiction to entertain it and not the high court. Justice Gang in his ruling yesterday in respect of the preliminary objection filed by DPP and its candidate Hon. Dan Dul said the court found the preliminary objection meritorious and successful and held that it had no jurisdiction to hear the motion of mandamus filed by PDP and proceeded to strike out the mandamus proceedings.
Oil Spill Pollutes 3 Communities In Akwa Ibom by Bernard Tolani Dada, Uyo
Oil spill from Mobil Producing Nigeria, the operator of Qua Iboe Terminal, has affected three communities of Nkpana; Inua Eyet Ikot and Esuk Ikim Ekeme in Ibeno Local Government area of Akwa Ibom State. The oil spill was said to have occurred when a thunderstorm sparked and caused immense tank fire. A statement by Mobile Public Affairs manager, Mr. Akaniyene Esiere said the total loss arising from oil spill had not been ascertained. Speaking on the development, the Village Head of Iwuo Okpom, a community
in Ibeno, Okon AKpanubong, condemned the oil giant for endangering the lives of its host communities. Akpanubong urged Mobil Producing Nigeria (MPN) to begin the clean-up exercise of the fresh oil spill in the area without delay. He noted that the management had inspected the site and promised to get back to the communities. The Village Head lamented that there had been series of oil spill since the company came on board, thus making the local communities lose confidence in Mobil. His words: “Saturday night another super oil spill from ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
One of the survivors of Sunday attacks by the suspected members of Boko Haram sect on three churches in four villages near Chibok in Borno State, Abbas Gava, has said that he lost eight of his in-laws during the attack. Gava, who is also a member of the state Vigilante group of Nigeria, stated this during an interview with LEADERSHIP yesterday. The suspected insurgents had opened fire on worshippers inside churches on Sunday while the death toll arising from the incident had risen to 105. Various churches in Kwada and Kautikari villages of Chibok local government area were attacked at the time the residents who are predominantly Christians were observing their Sunday services. Gava said: “It was a sad development for us in Kwada. My wife comes from Kwada and we have received the sad information that eight members of her family were killed during the attack on churches and homes by members of the Boko Haram”. He described the human carnage as the worst ever recorded in a single attack. “I have just been informed from Kautikari and Kwada that the total number of corpses recovered in the churches and in the bushes is 105”, he added. Another survivor, Yohana Chibok, a resident of Kautikari who claimed to have witnessed the incident said the attackers who arrived in a convoy of trucks and motorcycles took their time to carry out the attack and left before the Nigerian Air Force jet came hovering. He said: “It was the worst of all attacks that we have ever witnessed since Chibok came under attack. The gunmen came at the time people were in the church observing the Sunday services. They ordered all women and children to come out and warned that all men should remain inside. Then they began to fire into the churches and everyone began to scramble, but it was too late for many people. “About 35 people died inside the church, while many others who managed to escape sustained serious injuries. Besides that, many others also got killed outside the church, especially those fleeing from their houses - about 51 people
Minimah
were also reported dead, some say it was more than that, but that was what I can confirm”. Yohana lamented further that “the gunmen took their time to carry out the attack in Kwada and then proceeded to Kautikari, where they had also carried out attacks on churches. He said they were all not pleased with the belated intervention of the Nigerian military. He further said, “No one came to our rescue during these hours of attack, that started from 8am and lasted till about 11am. The military jets that later came, arrived very late because the attackers were long gone. “We are all in confusion now, because of the kind of attacks Chibok has been suffering of late; we don’t know if the world is coming to an end here in Chibok. Now hundreds of children have been made orphans and several women, both young and old have become widows over night; we are looking unto God for his mercies here”. Borno LG chairman escapes death, as Boko Haram bombs police station Gunmen going after the caretaker chairman of Shani local government council of Borno state, Alhaji Modu Walama, had Monday bombed the divisional police headquarters in Shani town and set ablaze many other homes and residential buildings, witnesses and official said. Though no human casualty was recorded during the incident, the attackers were said to have first invaded the home of the chairman, who was lucky not to be around before going into the town to wreak havoc. Alhaji Walam’s son was killed about a month ago when Boko Haram gunmen, who went looking for him in his village, ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
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Tuesday, July 1, 2014
conference By joe dudun, amina alhassan and Bode GBadeBo
Election: Committee Recommends Independent Candidacy Says elected person who changes party to vacate seat
L-R: Emir of Dutse, Alhaji Dr. Nuhu Muhammad Sanusi, Mr Arikawe Akin and Comrade Olakunle Olaitan dicussing after the plenary yesterday. PHOTO BY ADEFEMI ADEWUYI
Purported New Constitution: Delegates Trade Word Over Mutual Suspicion Delegates in heated argument Count us out – Kutigi Newspaper report aimed at distraction – Ahamba
Mutual suspicion almost marred the proceedings at the National Conference yesterday when delegate-members of interest groups at the conference engaged each other in heated arguments over a front page newspaper publication yesterday alleging that the conference leadership was involved in lobbying the northern delegates with the aim of cajoling them to accept a purported prewritten report that would be adopted as the final report of the conference as precursor to a new constitution. As soon as attention was drawn to the said newspaper report through a motion by Ish’aq Moddibo Kawo, arguments started as delegates were divided on whether the conference deputy chairman, Prof Bolaji Akinyemi, who was mentioned in the report as the linkman for the writing of a purported new constitution, should respond to the allegation or not. Beware, this is distraction… However, Chief Mike Ahamba (SAN) and others were of the view that the publication should be dismissed as it was meant to distract the ongoing conference from its set goals. Ahamba claimed that those who are disappointed by the progress the conference has made so far are bent on scuttling it, adding that the move should be resisted Those who shared Ahamba’s position also challenged those behind the
publication and the delegates who claimed to have been lobbied by the deputy chairman to come forward and justify their claims with evidence or else the newspaper should be asked to apologise to the conference. However, a former President of the Senate, Ken Nnamani, another motion demanding that Akinyemi be allowed to explain himself since he was present at the sitting. The same position was canvassed by Dr. Haruna Yerima, who argued that the allegation should not be dismissed, saying “morality demands that the deputy chairman clears his name.” Akinyemi, however, denied ever lobbying anybody to adopt a new constitution which the publication alleged he was spearheading. He explained that a few days ago, as was customary when they are contentious issues, he had approached political leaders at the conference from both the north and the south separately, to discuss their differences regarding the issue of whether or not there was need for a new constitution arising from the proceedings of the conference. The deputy chairman went ahead to mention names of people he met to discuss the issue and stated without any ambiguity that the issue of lobbying for adoption of a new constitution for the conference was absolutely false as he only set out to ensure harmony between two
opposing groups. Then the a former Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji Ibrahim Coomasie, who was also invited by Akinyemiu, confirmed development, saying he was unable to attend but explained that when he observed some moves which tended not to be in line with his initial conception of the meeting, he became wary and decided to pull out. Dokpesi, who spoke next absolved the conference leadership of the any involvement in the meeting he convened and the issuance of what he called a ‘Working Document’ produced by his group comprising delegates from the six geo-political zones. Regarding an earlier publication by the same newspaper on Sunday, Dokpesi said it had nothing to do with the leadership of the Conference and that there was nothing secret in the document obtained by the newspaper, declaring that it was a mere working document agreed upon by 15 of the 18 members of his group. Meanwhile, after the arguments, the conference chairman, Justice Idris Kutigi, said the leadership of the conference knew nothing about the document in question, adding that delegates were free to meet and discuss issues of interest regarding the conference. “If you want to do anything for yourselves, please do so but don’t include us,” Kutigi said.
Regarding an earlier publication by the same newspaper on Sunday, Dokpesi said it had nothing to do with the leadership of the Conference
The National Conference Standing Committee on Political Parties and Electoral Matters has recommended for an independent candidature in the future elections in the country. The committee added that relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act be amended to accommodate this provision. These were part of recommendations of the committee’s report as presented the co-chairmen, Senator Iyorchia Ayu and Senator Ken Nnamani, at the conference plenary yesterday. The committee, among others, recommended that section 68(g) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, be further amended to indicate that any elected official either for executive or legislative position, who move from his political party to another one, regardless of the reasons for such, shall automatically forfeit his or her seat. They however agreed that such official is free to contest for the position or indeed any position on the platform of his new-found party. In order to enhance effectiveness of political parties, the committee recommended that administrative processes should be made transparent and accountable. Also the report recommended that issues such as party membership registration and conduct of party activities should be made accessible and transparent to members. The committee also recommended that for party to enhance party independence and discipline, all members must submit themselves to the principle of party supremacy and that elected members of the party must respect party decisions at all times. On the conduct of election, the committee recommended that biometric data of all electorates should be captured, stored and used for elections in the country. In addition, it said INEC should ensure that the latest technology is deployed at all times in the conduct of elections as is the case in other jurisdictions.
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Tuesday, July 1, 2014
I Lost 8 In-laws In Kwala Attack – Survivor FROM PAGE 5
Walama, found that he was not around. The embattled council boss was reported to have survived a couple of similar attacks in the past. During Monday’s attack, the gunmen who invaded the agrarian town, drove in various military-like trucks mounted with machine guns, and began to attack the police station, using explosives and and rocket launchers. Witnesses said no human casualty was recorded even on the side of the police because “the few policemen on duty took to their heels on hearing the sounds of the sophisticated weapons the terrorists were using”. Having destroyed the police station and many other businesses and residential buildings, the gunmen were said to have attempted to leave with some of the police patrol vehicles, which they later set ablaze when they discovered they were not serviceable. Aliyu Usman, a resident of Shani who had also fled during the attack said the terrorists had been harassing them for sometime before they finally attacked yesterday. “They had recently sent message that we must stop all farming activities around Walama as they were going to be operating in that area; we thought it was just a mere threat, until they came today. “When they first came to Walama, they went to look for the local government chairman in his house but they did not meet him, so they headed for Shani the local government headquarters”, Usman, a local farmer said. Church Attacks: Boko Haram using religion to destabilise Nigeria – Jonathan Sequel to Boko Haram’s incessant attacks on mosques and churches, President Goodluck Jonathan declared yesterday that the attacks on churches that led to the death of about 50 persons in Borno State was an absolute confirmation that members of the Boko Haram sect were misguided individuals whose aim was to hide under the cloak of religion to destabilise and disunite the country. He said it was with dismay
and consternation that he received reports of the attacks by the insurgents on churches in villages near Chibok, Borno State. In a statement by his special adviser on media and publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the president who commiserated with the families and churches that lost their relatives and members during Sunday’s attacks said he shared “the view of the most learned Islamic leaders and scholars that no true Muslim will resort to the mindless killing of innocent people at any time, especially not during the holy month of Ramadan, to redress any perceived grievance. “The President deplores the renewed targeting by Boko Haram of adherents of a particular religion and urged all lovers of peace and unity to wholly condemn the resurgence by agents of global terrorism to disunite and destabilize Nigeria by callously instigating violence among religious groups in the country”, Abati noted. The statement made available to LEADERSHIP reads in part: “The President believes, therefore, that Sunday’s attacks on churches and other similar atrocities by Boko Haram are conclusive proof, if any is still needed, that its leaders and members are thoroughly misguided persons who are only using religion as a cover for their reprehensible crimes against their countrymen and women. “President Jonathan urged all Nigerians, irrespective of their religious beliefs, to resist this new attempt to undermine the nation’s firm and collective resolve to unite in full support of its armed forces and security agencies against the vicious perpetrators of brutal attacks on innocent citizens. “The President assures all Nigerians once again that the Federal Government and national security agencies will continue to intensify ongoing efforts to end Boko Haram’s senseless attacks until the terrorists are routed and totally defeated”. Post-trauma therapy path to recovery for Chibok girls – Expert The project director at the Trauma Awareness and Resilience Initiative (TAR) in Abuja, Mr Onyekwue Francis, has said that the schoolgirls
abducted from Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, were going through a traumatic experience in captivity and would need a systematic process to recovery, in order for their future not to be ruined. Francis, who stated this during an interview with LEADERSHIP yesterday, said the girls were presently experiencing repeated and complex trauma in the captivity of their abductors and asked what he called the big question about what their journey of life would be like, after their release. He further said, “Every human being is seen or is believed to be on a journey in this life, which starts from the day you were conceived in your mother’s womb. We all journey through until the day we reach our final destination. “Traumatic exposures are seen as one of the major causes of violence in the world today and Nigeria is not an exception. If unhealed, it could cause hurting oneself or others,” he said. On rehabilitating the abducted girls when they regain freedom, he posited that there would be need for a holistic approach that would involve biological, social, spiritual and psychological attention. “It will be quite unfortunate if in the quest to the rehabilitate the girls on their return we create a missing link. Missing link in the sense that one or two aspects of the holistic approach in their rehabilitation is ignored or not properly handled,” he said. MURIC condemns Boko Haram’s attack on churches The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) yesterday condemned Boko Haram insurgents which ravaged three churches in villages near Chibok killing about 30 people, saying that it contradicted the spirit of Ramadan. MURIC’s director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, said in a statement that the attack coming on the second day of Ramadan, was an infringement on the rules of Ramadan which required Muslims to pursue a robust spiritual programme involving supplications, glorification of Allah and enlightenment during the holy month.
The villages attacked included Kautikari, Nasarawa, Gwaradina and Kwadake. According to MURIC, it proved that Boko Haram is Haram. “For whereas Islam teaches the halting of hostilities in Ramadan, Boko Haram chooses the same Ramadan to kill with reckless abandon; while Islam teaches the pursuance of education by both sexes from childhood to old age, Boko Haram forbids education for the girl-child; while Islam teaches peaceful coexistence, Boko Haram pursues a barbaric agenda of killing and maiming,” it said. MURIC charged the Nigerian authorities to demonstrate commitment to the war against insurgents, saying “We expect Nigerian soldiers to have studied the tactics adopted by the insurgents by now and to have evolved ways and means of truncating their gimmicks. “At the same time, the Federal Government must start considering a roundtable with the insurgents. This is a group that cannot build but it capable of destroying. Wise counsel dictates that the Federal Government must stoop to conquer. Too many lives are lost on daily basis. The authorities should find ways of placating Boko Haram soonest in order to bring peace to the North East,” it said. It noted that there were offers on ground for this initiative which included the one former President Olusegun Obasanjo who claimed that he was in contact with the insurgents suggested but the Federal Government’s reaction to his offer was cold. Also, it said that a lawyer who is allegedly close to the group, Hajiya Aisha Wakil, reported last week that Boko Haram was seeking amnesty and that the group was ready to swap the 219 girls with 70 Boko Haram detainees, yet there was no reaction from government. “The ball is in President Jonathan’s court. We charge the president to be more proactive in these matters. Nigerians are waiting to hear his response to the offers on ground. It is escapist to claim that Obasanjo knows how to see the president. There are things FG can facilitate in such circumstances. “Nigerians are not fools. We are very eager to see peace returning to the
Jonathan
Badeh
Shettima
Gusau
North East, the president’s North East, because the whole country is Mr. President’s constituency. Fire in the North East is therefore fire on the president’s roof,” it added.
Oil Spill Pollutes 3 Communities In Akwa Ibom FROM PAGE 5
the storage facility occurred after serious heavy rain and thunderstorms. The spill has extended to the ocean and come
out to the coastal communities. “Oil spill is detrimental to health as it affects the lives of human beings, plants and fishing. You know Document1families?”
He appealed to the Federal Government and other relevant agencies to come to the rescue of the Ibeno people. Also, the Coordinator of Artisan Fishermen Association
of Nigeria, John Etim, said fishermen are facing untold hardship as a result of oil spill in Ibeno. He said: “Today, water is not better for the fishermen to fish;
the oil spill affects the lives of the fishes and other aquatic life. “Every fish that lives in the water will escape to other neighbouring countries that will have clean water to survive.”
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Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
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stories of the Tuesday, July 1, 2014
...NEWS WITH A HUMAN FACE
ELECTROCUTED: 2 Youths Electrocuted In Ebonyi By Obinna Ogbonnaya, Abakaliki
Two young men in their early 20’s were yesterday electrocuted by a high tension wire on their way from a wake-keep at Umuwagu, Ikwuato, Idembia in Ezza East Development Center, Ezza South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. An eyewitness who spoke to LEADERSHIP on grounds of anonymity, said that the duo were also in company of another relation adding that while they were returning from a wake-keep, Policemen on patrol attempted to stop them but rather than stop, they took to their heels. According to the eyewitness: “the Policemen are on duty at Ezza Girls Secondary School and on sighting the young men, they tried to stop them to inquire of their movement but the boys started running and in a bid to escape from the policemen, they ran into a high tension wire that had fallen to the ground and were electrocuted”. “Before residents of the community could come to their rescue, two had already died while the third person escaped death but was still in a critical condition and receiving treatment in a hospital in Abakaliki.
Sanitation: Delta Orders Local Government Chairmen To Prosecute Defaulters By Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba
Dissatisfied with the poor sanitary habits of majority of the people, Delta State government has directed chairmen of the 25 local government areas of the state to arrest and prosecute persons who violate sanitation laws in their domain. The government’s directive was handed down to council bosses by the state’st commissioner for local government affairs, Barr. Neworld Safugha. The commissioner told our correspondent that the governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, has not been happy with the poor sanitary conditions in most of the councils and called on the local government bosses to employ tougher sanctions against sanitation offenders. According to the commissioner, “the governor particularly gave this order and had disseminated this order to the council bosses that they must evolve better ways to ensure that their councils are clean and also sent defaulters abatement notices, take them to court and by the time some persons are made to face the law, everybody will sit up” Barr. Safugha, however, challenged heads of environmental health to work hard and live up to their official responsibilities of ensuring a clean environment, adding that those who failed in this regard would face sanctions.
Corn sellers attending to customers at Wuse II, Abuja, yesterday. Photo By Nan
FRAUD: Police Arrest Fake Pastor For Duping People HUMAN PARTS: Police Uncover Human in the Department of Physics and Industrial Physics, By Nnamdi Mbawike, the nefarious act was perpetrated by him through Parts Dealers’ Hideout Operatives of the Enugu State Police Command the use of his facebook page to create or open up Enugu
have arrested a fake pastor for allegedly defrauding people through a non-existing orphanage home. A release made available to LEADERSHIP by the command’s public relations officer, Ebere Amaraizu, disclosed that the suspect identified as Umeokeke Cyprian Uche, used his facebook page to defraud many people, adding the he told his victims that the home was located in Maiduguri. Amaraizu stated that the suspect told his victims that he was Reverend Uche Philips, asking them to pay money into a bank account he opened. He said, “An adage that every day is for the thief and one day is for the owner of a house came to reality following the apprehension of an internet scammer and fraud specialist who specializes on using facebook account to swindle unsuspecting members of the public by posing as a clergyman of God on face book to attract credibility to his dubious claims. “According to the suspect, Umeokeke Cyprian Uche who claimed that he hailed from Aku Village, Ezinifite Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State and who claimed also to be 24years and a 600 level student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
another page with the name, Reverend Uche Phillips and with a reverend father picture to convince his would- be- victims and post prayers in the page and people will start commenting and following and through the comments, he will now inform those that commented and were following him that his ministry has an orphanage home at Maiduguri and that they are kindly requested to support the orphanage home with money and not materials because of the security situation there.” The Command’s public relations officer, said that suspect would go as far as posting bank account number through which his followers of facebook would post money to him as he usually reflect in his message that material gifts are not welcomed due to insurgency there. According to him, the suspect also revealed that he started the illicit act in the month of January,2014 but has not made fabulous amount of money but was expecting large sums from his ‘captured’ victim before luck ran against him and he fell into the waiting hands of the operatives of the Special Anti Robbery Squad (S.A.R.S) of the Enugu State command of the Nigeria Police who have been tailing him.
SEALED: Delta Seals 6 Shops Over Child Hawking By Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba
Determined to stamp out street hawking by children, Delta State Taskforce on School Dropout otherwise known as Edu-marshals, has sealed up six shops belonging to parents and guardians whose children of school age were caught hawking during school hours in Warri metropolis and Asaba. Speaking on the development, the Executive Assistance to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan on Education matters, Rev. Stella Blaize, said the shops were sealed by the Edu-marshals after the affected parents and guardians were warned several times
not to engage their children in street trading/hawking during school hours. She disclosed that the children were not only seen selling during school hours in their respective shops but were also seen selling and hawking goods along the streets, adding that the shops were sealed up by Edu-marshals to enable them sign an undertaken before their shops will be reopened. She, therefore, enjoined parents and guardians who engage their children in any form of street trading to desist from such acts in order to avoid sealing of their shops.
By Abdullahi Olesin , Ilorin
Police in Kwara State have discovered a criminal dungeon believed to be hide-out of dealers of human parts . The dungeon was discovered in an uncompleted building along Airport/ Eyenkorin road, a suburb of Ilorin,the state capital. The building where the evil acts was being perpetrated, according to the State Commissioner of Police,,Mr Ambrose Aisabor, is owned by an 85- year-old woman. Aisabor, who briefed newsmen in Ilorin yesterday, said the “discovery of the criminal dungeon was made possible due to high level intelligence information from the good people of the state”. He said “the command’s special -undercover agents on the 28th of this month at about 0700hrs while acting on a highly potent intelligence, discovered some building suspected to be hide-out for criminals dealing in human parts. “When we visited the place, we discovered a bizzare scenario. Among the items recovered is decomposed headless body, human feet ,snail shell, clothes suspected to be used in strangulating their victims. “I think that place is used as a market where people who are involved in ritual activities buy human parts.” The CP said that investigation is still ongoing, adding that no arrest has been made in connection with the discovery. “The owner of the building has been discovered. She is an 85- year old woman. We are interrogating her, maybe as investigation progresses, we are going to make some arrests”, he said. The CP urged the people of the state to continue to provide the police with useful information that will assist in ridding the state of criminals.
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STORIES OF THE DAY 11
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
photo news
NABBED: Naval Men Nab 2 Criminal Suspects BY OKECHUKWU OBETA, Awka
Two suspected criminal syndicates who specialise in duping traders of their hard-earned money in Onitsha, the Anambra state’s commercial hub and it’s environs were yesterday arrested by officers of the Naval Out-post, Onitsha. One of the suspects, Chigbo Daniel confessed to newsmen that members of his group specialise in duping female traders. He said that they normally waylay their unsuspecting victims at strategic locations early in the morning while going to market and in the evening when they are coming back from businesses. The Commanding Officer of the Naval Outpost in Onitsha, Capt. Mike Oamen vowed while parading the two suspected fraud syndicates in their base in Atani, that his com-
mand was committed to flushing out all the riverine areas of the state of criminals so that nightlife will return to the commercial town of Onitsha in particular. ``No form or magnitude of crime and criminality would be tolerated any longer” the Naval commander warned, adding, “Criminals should leave Onitsha area in their own personal interest since we would surely trackdown anybody or group, who is not law abiding”. Urging residents to co-operate with his Command in the task of the fight against criminals, Oamen assured``The people would definitely be free again; while businesses would flourish once more when night-life is totally returned to Onitsha and its environs”. ``We need the people’s co-operation through prompt information to continue to
Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson (middle) flanked by dignitaries cutting the tape during the official opening ceremony of Bayelsa Development Investment Corporation in London.
IMPOUNDED: Fire Service Men Protest Seizure Of Generators By Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba
Business activities at the popular Ogbeogonogo market, Asaba, Delta State, were on Monday temporarily paralysed as the main gate of the market was put under lock and key for several hours in protest of the seizure of several generating sets by men of the state Fire Service Unit attached to the market. In the early hours, commuters and traders were caged in and out of the main gate of the market as it took the combined efforts of security agents, including the military to open the gates after overwhelming the traders. The secretary of the market traders who did not want his name in print alleged that the traders had been experiencing epileptic power supply from PHCN, adding that the failure of the market management operating the central sound proof generator to give them
light despite the service charge monthly sparked up the trouble. According to the secretary, the traders were surprised when the fire service men seized their private generating set, saying they were not authorized to use their private generating sets in the market. She noted that the main power supply source for their businesses since the market management has not been able to provide them constant power supply, has been the use of private generating sets, adding, “our customers may not be able to access the quality of product in the stores under power outage”. Reacting to the incident, the police public relations officer in the state, DSP Celestina Kalu, disclosed that members of the police force swung into action to restore law and order, adding that the warring traders have been advised to stay off trouble for the interest of peace.
Security Forces Arrest 31 Suspected Cultists By Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba
Determined to ensure a total mop-up of arms and other dangerous chemical weapons, a joint team of the Nigerian Navy Air force and the police have commenced thorough search for arms suspected to have been piled up at various communities in Delta State and arrested 31 suspected cultist. While the security agents vow to recover all arms in the crises ridden communities, the disarmament team who started the search since last Thursday yesterday stormed all houses and surroundings in Asaba, Ibusa and its environs including Mandagho, Ajudiabo and Ogidigbe for illegal arms but however recover no arms or weapons. The commander, Nigeria Navy Ship (NNS) Delta, Navy Capt. Musa Gemu, who led the operation before combing some of the com-
munities, told each of the community settlers that “you are aware that federal government through the Navy, Police, SSS and the Delta State government met with your leaders and resolved the crises which has involved the use of weapons over the proposed gas city development in your community”. But the police public relations officer in the state, DSP Celestina Kalu, told journalists that the combing exercise was informed by rumours of Boko Haram infiltrating the eastern part of the country, adding that security agents were battle ready to bring to book, all forms of criminal activities across the state. Reports said that most of the communities’ dwellers in Warri metropolis have, however, complained of severe absence of infrastructure in the area, accusing the oil multinationals operatives in the areas and government at all tiers of gross neglect of the communities.
L-R: Representative of the minister of Trade and Investment, Mr. Jonathan Juma and the Director General of Consumer Protection Council (CPC), Mrs. Dupe Atoki during the launch of ‘Check Best Before’ campaign in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO
L-R: Members of Communiqué Committee, Mrs Altine Inuwa, Dr Umar Ardo, Mr Tahir Shehu and Chief John Elias briefing newsmen on the position of Adamawa PDP stakeholders on the impeachment move against the state governor and his deputy in Yola, yesterday. Photo By Nan
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Chairman of APC, Katsina State, Alhaji Mustapha Inuwa, presenting a power generating set to APC official from Malumfashi Local Government, Malam Aminu Lawal, at the launch and distribution of power generating sets and amplifiers for Ramadan Tafsir in Malumfashi. Photo By Nan
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Tuesday, July 1, 2014
PRESS STATEMENT ISSUED BY THE RT. HON AHMADU UMARU FINTIRI SPEAKER ADAMAWA STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY ON 29TH DAY OF JUNE, 2014 ON THE
IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDING AGAINST
ADMIRAL MURTALA NYAKO
THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF ADAMAWA STATE GENTLEMENT OF THE PRESS,
the House.
As you are aware, a notice of allegations of gross misconduct against the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Vice Admiral Murtala Nyako GCON was signed by 19 (Nineteen) members of the Adamawa State House of Assembly on the 18th of June, 2014.
This Panel will be independent of the Chief Judge and the House and will decide after hearing relevant evidence whether or not the al legations have been established.
In accordance with the provisions of section 188 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended) and being a matter of urgent public importance, the Governor and members of the public were duly notified and the Notice of Allegations of Gross misconduct was published in several National daily newspapers. The Governor is yet to provide a statement in reply to the allegations and indeed, is not under any obligation to do so by virtue of the provisions of the Constitution. Upon the expiration of 14 (fourteen) days from the date of the Notice however, the House of Assembly, having commenced the process, is obliged to pass a Resolution on whether or not the allegations should be investigated. We wish to assure the public especially the good people of Adamawa State that the House of Assembly is mindful of the seriousness of this matter and is resolved to handle same with the equity, fairness and the justice it deserves. The process is bi-partisan and involves all Members of the House who elect to participate in its deliberations. The House of Assembly being one of the three Arms of Government in a Constitutional Democracy provides checks and balances with regard to the actions (or inactions) of the Executive in the discharge of its functions. To this end, the House is also. mandated to monitor the use of public funds appropriated by the House for and on behalf of the people of Adamawa State. This is further reinforced in section 128 of the constitution which provides that the House of Assembly has the power to direct inquiry or investigation into the conduct of Affairs of any person, Authority, Ministry or Government Department charged with the duty or responsibility of disbursing or administering moneys appropriated by the House for the benefit of the public. In this regard, the powers conferred on the House by section 128 are exercisable for the purpose of exposing corruption, inefficiency and waste in the disbursement of funds appropriated by the House. Gentlemen, it is important to make one point very clear at this juncture. The Adamawa State House of Assembly has not yet found the Governor or His Deputy guilty on the allegations of Gross Misconduct leveled against them. If by two third majority the House subsequently resolves (without Debate) that the allegations be investigated further, the Chief Judge of Adamawa State will be required to constitute a 7 (seven) man Panel to conduct an investigation and to submit its findings to
As you will observe, the Constitutional provisions for this important process are intricate and detailed and are designed to insulate the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary from undue interference and bias in the process. Indeed to further guarantee that there is to be no risk of judicial, interference in the independent discharge of the legislative oversight functions, and to prevent the abuse of the judicial process for the purpose of shielding the Executive from legislative scrutiny in its application of public funds, section 188 (10) of t he Constitution Specifically provides as follows: “No proceedings• or determination of the Panel or of the House of Assembly or any Matter relating to such proceedings or determination shall be entertained or questioned in any court” We are confident that the Judiciary in Adamawa State will resist any attempt by anyone to use the hallowed chambers of the Temple of justice to interfere in a purely legislative process comprehensively circumscribed by the provision of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended). I appeal to the media to resist any attempt to sensationalize reports on this matter, but rather to enquire directly from the people of Adamawa State in order to appreciate the true picture of the State of affairs. The House of Assembly enjoys the full support of the people of Adamawa State as their democratically elected representatives and we owe them a duty to discharge our functions responsibly and solely for their collective benefit. We thank the people of Adamawa State for their maturity and understanding and undertake to keep faith with them at all times. We commend the action of Law Enforcement Agencies in the State and further appeal to them to continue to take all necessary steps to ensure that Adamawa State remain safe and peaceful. Long live Adamawa State! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria! I thank you all for your patient attention.
RT. HON. AHMADU UMARU FINTIRI Speaker Adamawa State House of Assembly
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
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14 NEWS/BUSINESS
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
business news
Capital Market Indices Appreciate By 0.70%
BY Olushola Bello, Lagos
Equity transactions on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) opened yesterday in an upward trend as the market indices improved by 0.70 per cent. The appreciation was due to price gains by major equities. The market capitalisation appreciated by N98 billion to close at N14.028 trillion when compared with the N13.930 trillion posted on Friday.
Equally, the All-Share Index increased by 294.86 basis points or 0.70 per cent to close at 42,482.48, against the 42,187.62 achieved on Friday. Nestle led the gainers’ table by N51 to close at N1.150 per share. Seplat came second with N24.90 to close at N700, while Total appreciated by N8.55, to close at N179.60 per share. Mobil advanced by N6.55 to close at N137.55 and Oando
gained N1.89 to close at N29.25 per share. On the other hand, Cadbury topped the losers’ chart by N1.89 to close at N80 per share. Glaxosmith trailed with a loss of N1 to close at N64, while Presco dropped 99 kobo to close at N35.01 per share. Ashaka Cement dropped 49 kobo to close at N28.51, while Wapco lost 40 kobo to close at N111 per share.
Expired Products: Dealers Get 6 Months Ultimatum BY kingsley Alu, Abuja
Dealers in products with compromised quality have been given six months to find alternative ways of storing them or have them withdrawn from the market. The Consumer Protection Council (CPC) at the launch of its nationwide consumer awareness campaign on the dangers of expired products in Abuja, tagged “Check the BBdate,” by the minister of industry, trade and investment, Olusegun Aganga, said the issue of Best Before (BB) dates was crucial, hence the campaign to stem the tide of avoidable deaths and loss of hard earned money suffered by consumers.
He added that the agency would begin a clamp down on businesses found to have been engaging in practices that undermine consumer safety and economic interests at the expiration of this date. The CPC director-general, Mrs Dupe Atoki, while advising manufacturers of such products to use the opportunity provided to train all those in their distribution on how best to store their products, expressed concern that over time, some businesses have taken advantage of the ignorance of consumers, who most times do not take seriously the need to constantly check the expiry dates of products they purchase.
NAHCO Grows Turnover By 11%, Pays 30k Dividend By NSE ANTHONY-UKO, Abuja
The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCO Aviance) has grown its turnover by 11 per cent from N7.4 billion in 2012 to N8.1billion in 2013. This was disclosed by the company’s chairman, Suleiman Yahyah, at the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held last week in Abuja, where he said, “The company has upped its Profit Before Tax (PBT) by 29 per cent from N853 milion in 2012 to N1.123 billion in 2013. NAHCO has also increased earnings per share by 37 per cent. “Accordingly the board is pleased to recommend a modest increase of 20 per cent in dividend payout from 25 kobo to 30 kobo per share.” The chairman said the liquidity position and cash flow of the company have been increased. “Our diversification process is still ongoing. Our Free Trade Zone (FTZ) Licence has been signed by President Goodluck Jonathan…We are developing a 25-year master plan for NAHCO FTZ in that direction this year,” he said. Earlier, he told the shareholders that the NAHCO was ready to help Nigeria move the aviation industry forward, after the company handled three million international passengers in 2013. The managing director/CEO of the company, Kayode T Oluwasegun-Ojo, said the company’s total asset grew by 25 per cent from N11.162 billion in 2012 to N13.994 billion in 2013. Speaking at the AGM, one of the shareholders, Mukhtar Mukhtar, said the board and management deserve commendation for what he described as a “very impressive result.” The NAHCO Aviance Plc is an African diversified group with interests in aviation cargo, aircraft handling, crew, passenger transportation and service delivery among others. Follow these reports on leadership.ng/business
L-R: Nollywood stars, Chioma Akpotha, Ali Nuhu, category manager, Fab Cleaning, Unilever Nigeria, Ibironke Ugbaja and nollywood actress, Olufunke Akindele at the launch of new OMO detergent and the unveiling of OMO brand ambassadors in Lagos on Friday. Photo By GBENGA OLAJOBI
FG To Generate Jobs Through Services Industry – Jonathan BY George Agba, Abuja
President Goodluck Jonathan hinted yesterday that the federal government was shoring up investments in the service industry to generate more job opportunities for Nigerians. Jonathan, said, “The recent gross domestic product (GDP) rebasing result reveals that the services industry constitutes about 51 per cent of our GDP and employs many more Nigerians than we previously thought. “Therefore, we are investing in sectors such as the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and creative industry to generate more of such jobs which will be key to making our impressive recent economic growth record more inclusive.” The president said this at the 16th meeting of the Honourary International Investment Council
(HIIC) held the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He also identified the ICT and creative sectors of the industry as key areas of focus. Jonathan was represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo at the meeting with the theme “The Role of Skills, Education and Capacity Building for Economic Development in Nigeria.” Reiterating his administration’s resolve to make Nigeria one of the world’s 20 most industrial nations by 2020, the president said the administration had significantly improved the country’s investment climate and would continue to take all necessary steps to enhance the competitiveness of local enterprises. “We will continue to eliminate, as much as possible, distortions and privileges to create a sustainable level playing ground for all investors,” Jonathan said, adding that Nigeria’s
position as the preferred destination for investment in Africa was being maintained despite security challenges. Noting that within the last two months, the country had played host to several business delegations around the world who came to explore investment opportunities, Jonathan listed some of the delegations to include a Chinese delegation of 100 businessmen, 75 Kenyan businessmen, and 18 prospective investors from Switzerland. He hinted that the second largest government enterprise in China, made up of 500 companies, also visited and pledged to invest in the power generation and transmission sector. He said the visits by the United States’ commerce secretary, accompanied by a delegation; a team from Pakistan and a delegation from the Netherlands were also worthy of note.
Seplat Pledges Sustainable Growth, Targets 85mbpd by Olushola bello, Lagos
Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc has assured its shareholders of building sustainable long-term business with substantial contributions to Nigeria’s energy security as the company the company targeted gross operated oil production of 85 million barrels per day (mbpd) by the end of 2016. Addressing journalists at the company’s post Annual General Meeting held yesterday, the chairman of Seplat, Mr Ambrosie
Orjiako, said that despite the harsh operating environment underlined by “the uncertainties about the passage of the petroleum industry bill, persistent oil theft, huge exposure to subsidies and reduced demand for Nigerian crude oil blends in the United States, among other things,” Seplat has continued to grow exponentially. He said, “Seplat has continued to deliver growth holistically since inception in line with our strategy. Operated crude oil production has grown significantly from 11.5
million barrels in 2011 to 18.8 million barrels in 2013, with an exit gross production rate at December 31, 2013, of 61.7 thousand barrels per day. Operated average daily production for 2013 was 51.4 thousand barrels per day, with total annual operated production of 18.8 million barrels.” He pointed out that the company recorded total revenues of $880.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2013, representing growth of 41 per cent over the 2012 figure.
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Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Finally, Cashless Policy Goes Live Nationwide BY NSE ANTHONY-UKO, Abuja
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has, finally, extended the cashless policy to the nationwide, after running two pilot schemes in Lagos first then Abuja and five states. The policy takes effect from today. The policy places daily limits on amounts that can be withdrawn and by customers over the counter and, upon exceeding such limits, customers would be required to pay certain charges for cash handling on the excess amounts. For instance, individuals have a daily withdrawal limit of N500,000 while corporate bodies have N3 million. When these limits are exceeded, individuals will be charged 2 per cent of the excess amount withdrawn while corporate bodies will be charged 5 per cent. However, a one-year waiver has been granted on the application of withdrawal charges in the 30 states where the rollout started today. The CBN maintained
that withdrawal charges will continue to apply to transactions above the specified limits in Abia, Anambra, Lagos, Ogun, Kano, Rivers States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where the policy was already operational. Charges on withdrawals for both individual and corporate account holders will only take effect in the 30 States from July 1, 2015. This waiver is to allow ample time for the deployment of adequate infrastructure needed to support the policy, as well as additional sensitization of various stakeholders on the merits of the policy The CBN had earlier stopped charges on excess deposits. Also cash-in-transit lodgment and cash evacuation services will no longer be available to customers or merchants. These are to eliminate incidences of robbery, theft and cash-related crimes. Again, the policy is meant to reduce the high cost of cash along the value chain – from the CBN and the banks, to corporations and traders.
Diamond Bank Commisions Two Buildings At Ikoyi Passport Office BY Olushola Bello, Lagos
In furtherance of its commitment to development of its host community and nation, Diamond Bank Plc recently completed and commissioned two building projects at the Ikoyi Passport Department of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS),
Winners have emerged in this year’s Cowbell National Secondary Schools Mathematics Competition. With a total of 87 per cent, Master Akintokun Adegboyega, a student of Ota Total Academy, Ogun State, was adjudged the best candidate for the senior Secondary Schools category. With the 41 scored in objective questions and 46 in theory, the 13year old Adegboyega came first out of over 29,000 students who participated in the competition from different senior secondary schools in Nigeria. For the junior secondary category, the 13-year old Miss Adesina Deborah O of Graceland International School, Port Harcourt, Rivers State led the pack of over 15,000 other students who competed with her. Miss Adesina scored a total of 81 per cent - 35 in objective and 46 in theory questions – to emerge successful. The 15-year old Fiyinfoluwa Abioye, a student of NTIC CO-
ED Wuse 2, Abuja, came second for the senior category with a total mark of 85 per cent, while Master Babalola David Oluwasayo of Oritameta Baptist Model School, Ibadan, Oyo State was third best having scored 83 per cent in that same category. Also, 13-year old Atolagbe Yusuf Olayinka of Turkish International College, Isheri, Ogun State; and Johnson Stella Doris, a student of Reality High School, Ilesha, Osun State, also 13 years old, were the first and second runnersup in the junior category. The winners were
“As a bank, we are giving back to the society in which we operate as part of our corporate social responsibility. We are one of the few banks supporting Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs).” He assured NIS of installing ATMs in the premises and maintenance of the project to enable it stand the test of time.
TD Joins Nokia Smartphone Channel Partners by CHIMA AKWAJA, Lagos
Technology Distributions (TD) has been appointed by Nokia as a major authorized distributor for her very smart products. Nokia in her effort to remain a global leader after the successful acquisition by Microsoft is partnering with TD to deliver her futuristic smart products in Nigeria. Nokia is betting on her new tablets as the most stylish and privileged product for achievers and those who see knowledge success as a right. Demand for new Nokia tablets has outstripped supply and it is expected that Nigerians will be experiencing this lifestyle
Best Students Emerge In Cowbell Maths Competition BY CHIMA AKWAJA, Lagos
Lagos. In his remark at the commissioning of the Ikoyi passport office, yesterday, the group managing director/CEO of the bank, Dr. Alex Otti said, “We are extremely delighted to partner with NIS in providing quality service to Nigerians. It is a partnership that will continue.
announced at the Prize-Giving ceremony of the 2014 Cowbell National Secondary Schools Mathematics C o m p e t i t i o n (NASSMAC) held at the prestigious Le Meridian Hotel in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Thursday. The event was the climax of the annual competition that started on March 15, 2014 with the first stage examination held in 200 centres in the 33 states and the FCT. Due to the widespread porous security; the examination did not hold in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States.
digital tablets after launch end of this month. According to the managing director of Nokia West Africa, Mr. Nick Imudie, the company was happy to partner with TD as one of Africa’s biggest ICT distributors. He said that TD has an undisputed pedigree and an established channel structure and great market intelligence to deliver. His words: “Technology Distribution has earned the privilege of launching our exclusive and Award winning Tablets first time in Africa end of this month. “As you know TD and Nokia are two well established
companies internationally and this partnership should excite both resellers and end users as more exciting products from Nokia will be made available to continually complement and enhance their lifestyle.” Commenting on the new partnership, the head of TDMobile, a subsidiary of TD responsible for mobile phones and tablets distributions in West Africa, Mrs. Gozy Ijogun, said that Nokia could not have taken a better decision than to partner with Technology Distributions especially now that there is confusion in the digital market place.
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BUSINESS fEatUrE 17
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
World Pension Summit: Launching Pension Industry Into Global Reckoning By Chika izuora, Lagos
For the second time in less than a quarter, Nigeria will be hosting notable global policy drivers in the economic sector, a rare opportunity that aims at aggregating fresh and innovative ideas on how to run the evolving economy. This month, Nigeria is set to host the African continent on issues of pension management. The forum is the World
Pension Summit (WPS) “Africa Special,” a platform specifically designed to share innovative strategy to grow the Africa pension industry. The WPS appears to be, at the moment, the only platform ‘for and by’ pension professionals, exchanging knowledge and innovative ideas on how to secure sufficient pension provision. The yearly forum usually focuses on cutting-edge developments and innovations in pensions; cov-
ering a broad range of fields such as Asset management, Investments, Pension Fund management, Scheme Developments, Ageing, Related Health – Elderly Care, Social Security, Social Innovation and Communications. The WPS was founded in 2010 with its inaugural and all other successive editions holding in the Netherlands. About the World Pension Summit “Africa Special”
Perhaps in the wisdom of the founders of the forum, a special session to focus on the emerging Africa pension industry has become imperative to help the continent sustain her innovative pension initiative. This specialised annual summit for Africa is organised jointly with the National Pension Commission of Nigeria (PenCom). The summit is an all African pension professionals forum where pension profes-
sionals would present and debate upon specific African pension innovations, key scenarios, and scheme development. Also global insights and best practices will be presented, shared and discussed by renowned international experts. The Nigeria’s pension innovation Since 2004, Nigeria has taken up a leading reform initiative in her pension industry, a
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true showcase for the African continent. The enactment of the Pension Reform Act 2004 is a testimony and will be the key starting point of a new era in pensions for Nigeria. On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the pension reform in Nigeria, the World Pension Summit “Africa Special” will kick-start a unique knowledge platform for all African nations on pension market development and how to address all complexities involved. This inaugural edition of the World Pension Summit “Africa Special” will focus on key lessons learned amongst African nations and share experiences on relevant topics and developments such as on pensions investments, risk management, funds management, administration, regulatory essentials and communication/financial literacy. The summit will be held annually, with Abuja as the conference location. PenCom’s innovative ideas Nigeria’s 2004 Pension Reform Act gave birth to the establishment of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), a public institution with the responsibility to regulate, supervise and ensure effective administration of pension matters in Nigeria. The PenCom is driving the paradigm shift in Nigeria’s pension system from the Defined Benefits Scheme (DBS) to the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). Obviously in its 10 years of existence, pension fund investments have contributed significantly to the robust economic growth experienced in Nigeria, as pension assets/GDP ratio have increased. Prior to the pension reform and the establishment of the PenCom in 2004, pension schemes in Nigeria had been bedeviled by many problems. The public service operated an unfunded DBS and the payment of retirement benefits was budgeted annually. This annual budgetary allocation for pension was often one of the most vulnerable items in budget implementation in the light of resource constraints. In many cases, even where budgetary provisions were made, inadequate and untimely release of funds resulted in delays and accumulation of arrears of payment of pension rights.
18 Aviation/BUSINESS
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
aviation REPORTS
FAAN Staff Graduate As International Airport Managers
One of the new aiports in Jigawa State
N148bn Debts incurred in Airport Remodelling projects Stories by Nkem osuagwu, Lagos
A new report has emerged indicating that the debt resulting from the airports remodelling projects may have been inflated by N26 billion. This report shows that the actual debt is N148 billion, and not the N174 billion earlier stated by the Senate Committee on Aviation. This is coming based on information from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) which said that funds for the projects were released in three tranches as the contract for the projects are also in three phases. Accordingly, the contract value of phase one of the projects was put at N12.81 billion, while the total amount already paid to contractors was N11.22 billion, with an outstanding balance of N1.58 billion. The contract value of phase two was N93.43 billion, while the total amount disbursed to the contractors was N53.97 billion, leaving a balance of the N39.50 billion. The third phase, which is still at infant stage, has a contract value of N63.02 billion; while total amount already paid is N4.21 billion, outstanding payment in this phase is N58.81 billion. Consequently, the sub-total of the debts is N99.85 billion. When added to the N48. 37 billion debts already approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), the total outstanding debts added up to N148.23 billion. This amount from the FAAN differs from the
N174 billion that was declared by the senate committee by about N26 billion. The federal government in 2011 embarked on the rehabilitation, expansion and restructuring of airport terminals, the building of 14 fresh cargo terminals, provision of equipment for the Accident Investigation Bureau and the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET). Meanwhile, the former minister of aviation, Stella Oduah, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and with the consent and endorsement of the Senate and House Committees on Aviation, had made fiscal provisions for the funding of these projects which was later abandoned by the Ministry of Aviation, hence, the accrual of the debts. The projects were being funded from three sources: accruals from the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA), appropriations and internally generated revenue, and this year, there was a plan to introduce other sources of funding which include airport development levy and security surcharge. Funding also came from the approval for the presidential priority projects on February 21, 2011, for the utilisation of $60 million in the BASA fund. This was submitted to the National Assembly for appropriation to be supplemented by a further N14. 6 billion from the internally generated revenue (IGR) of FAAN. At the same period, the
Funding also came from the approval for the presidential priority projects on February 21, 2011, for the utilisation of $60 million in the BASA fund
coordinating minister of the economy and minister of finance, Mrs Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, conveyed the approval for the aviation sector to procure critical infrastructure such as perimeter fencing, airfield lighting, water hydrant systems and firefighting equipment as follows: N43 billion from the 2013 budget (as proposed); N25 billion from the BASA fund and N44 billion from sources to be identified by the Ministry of Aviation, totalling N112 billion. But the available funds which have not been secured by the ministry include the current balance of N175 billion Power and Aviation Intervention Find (PAIF) from which N75 billion was supposed to be allocated to the aviation sector, the additional funding of N25 billion from the BASA fund to be made available for urgent infrastructure upgrades and currently the BASA fund with accrued revenue of about N30 billion, which is not yet utilised. Industry source have argued that if these funds were accessed by the ministry, it would have liquidated the actual N148 billion debts. It was gathered that the aviation ministry was not speeding up the automation process of the revenue collection initiated by FAAN, which could further boost the IGR of the agency by over 60 per cent as the system would block the loopholes through which the agency is short-changed by unscrupulous individuals.
The Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) said it has recorded another milestone in its capacity building effort in line with the Transformation Agenda of the President Goodluck Jonathan-led administration as it recently graduated three of the authority’s staff from the Airport Management Professional Accreditation Programme (AMPAP). The AMPAP programme, which commenced in 2012, was concluded in February 2014, making the successful candidates Certified Airport Managers. The successful candidates who completed the AMPAP in line with the Global ACI/ICAO objectives are the chief of staff to the managing director and chief executive officer of the agency, Mr Kabir Y. Mohammed, Mrs Vivian Menyanga of the Training Department and Mr Emmanuel Chidera Emmanuel of the Airport Operations Department. The managing director of the FAAN, Mr Saleh Dunoma, while presenting the candidates with their certificates, congratulated them and promised that the management of the FAAN would ensure that the work force is constantly improved through training. He added that staff should also be exposed to foreign training also in order to bring them at par with their foreign counterparts in aviation.
BA Builds Capacity In Nigeria’s Aviation Six students of the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, have been named winners in the British Airways’ Leaders of Tomorrow programme and will embark on a twoweek internship to be held in Nigeria and London this month. The initiative, aimed at deepening competencies in the aviation sector, saw Abimbola Caulcrick, a student of Abridged Airframe and Powerplant (AAP-8); Fajemisin Peter Adebola; Adachie Eneojo (both PGD students of Aviation Management); Banigo Michael; Ubong George Itok (both studying Standard Airframe and Powerplant (AP-27)); and Ogunranti Olaluwa, a student of Abridged Avionics (AAVO-13), named as winners. The winners were selected by an independent panel of three judges: aviation writer, Wole Shadare; aviation consultant, Simon Tumba; and petroleum & energy services professional, Tunde Arogunmati. The internship includes a two-week theoretical and practical training in aviation management in Nigeria and London; visiting the British Airways training centre in Crane bank as well as the engineering base in Cardiff. The programme will be concluded with an opportunity to understudy the chief executive officer (CEO) of British Airways, Keith Williams, in London, as well as visiting other departments within the company to get firsthand experience of the workings of a global airline. At the end of the internship, the winners will receive a British Airways’ accredited certification from the CEO to mark their graduation from the Leaders of Tomorrow Academy. The regional commercial manager, British Airways West Africa, Mr Kola Olayinka, said, “As the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria needs a strong aviation sector. Leaders of Tomorrow is our contribution to this and we expect big things from the winners in the coming years.”
BUSINESS/CUSTOMS 19
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Portal For Inclusion In Revised WCO Single Window Compendium These are indeed glorious days for the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) as the agency has added yet another cap to its feather by blazing the trail in the development of the Information Technology (IT) web-based trade portal, the www.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng. This unique application designed by the NCS to ease trade processes has attracted the recognition of the World Customs Organisation (WCO). The application is now to be included in the WCO’s revised Single Window Compendium for the benefit of its about 180-member countries around the world. The WCO Single Window Compendium provides useful knowledge for WCO-member administrations embarking on the Single Window development journeys. According to the organisation, demand from members for resources in the area of Single Window implementation is growing, particularly in view of the recent conclusion of the WTO agreement on trade facilitation. This higher demand from member customs administration has, consequently, led the organisation to embark on the update of the Single Window Compendium to provide members with richer content, particularly through the inclusion of national best practices. According to the WCO, one such national best practices which is to be included in the compendium is the Nigeria Trade Hub due to its uniqueness. A letter addressed to the comptroller-general of customs (CGC), Abdullahi Dikko, from the WCO’s Compliance and Facilitation Directorate, dated June 18, 2014, with reference number 14FL0306E/D.T and signed by the director, Compliance and Facilitation Directorate, Gaozhang ZHU, stated that “the secretariat is grateful for the support
and assistance received from the NCS in preparing for this feature which will serve as an inspiration for like-minded countries looking to enhance transparency and trade facilitation through the use of information technology.” It reads in part: “Dear Comptroller-General, as you are aware, the WCO Single Window Compendium provides useful knowledge for WCO-member administrations embarking on the Single Window development journeys and demand from members for resources in the area of Single Window implementation is growing, particularly in view of the recent conclusion of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Agreement on Trade Facilitation, where the use of the internet to publish information relating to trade procedures and the Single Window is specifically mentioned. “The application of information and communication technologies by customs administrations will also have far ranging impact on the implementation of related provisions in the agreement. Consequently, the WCO had embarked on the update of the Single Window Compendium to provide members with richer content, particularly through the inclusion of national best practices. “One such best practice that will be included in the revised Single Window Compendium is the Nigeria Trade Hub.” The Nigeria Trade Hub portal, a web based application, simplifies trade processes by providing information and guidance for international trade business processors in the areas of import, export and transit trade. The achievement was part of the NCS’ continuous efforts to consolidate on its modernisation process ahead of its take-over from the service providers. The
customs focus By JULIET ALOHAN
new portal, a non-restrictive online medium, is an intuitive and interactive platform for classifying goods. Through this portal, trade processors are enabled to find exact Harmonised System Codes (HS Codes) required for related tariffs and duties and avail themselves with required information on tariff and prohibited items. The application is also designed to touch on the Dikko aspect of trade facilitation such that trade processors can access information from all related government agencies. Guidelines and procedures for obtaining permits, licences and certificates of specified commodity and country of origin that a trade will require for business processing are also available on the portal. It further allows traders to convert currencies to exchange rates set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on a monthly basis, make payments, simulate tax and access the CPC Code. An interesting feature of the portal is that from the comfort of their homes, offices or even whilst on the move, would be or existing importers and exporters, both within and outside Nigeria, can access relevant information from a central point via smart phones or PC tablets. It is also interesting to note that information entered on the portal by importers or
exporters can be simultaneously accessed by other regulatory agencies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency ( NESREA), Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Services (NAQS), as the platform is shared by all relevant regulatory agencies. This has helped to eliminate the era of going from one agency to another to submit the same document which was time consuming, frustrating and tedious. The application is designed in such a way that once a HS Code is selected, the application automatically presents the user with the control measures of that product. It informs the user if the a particular item is a “Red Lane” item which will be subject to inspection or if the
item is on the prohibition list. Furthermore, the application indicates the tax and duties payable on any particular item, whilst presenting the user with the documents, i.e., the named permits or certificates required for the product, the issuing agency, the processing cost as well as the duration for processing. This empowers the trader and provides them with sound information to assist them in competing on the international market. Within hours, import/ export documentation processes, which before the development of the application took traders days or even weeks to complete, can be completed on the portal. No doubt the simplification of trade processes through the development of the Nigeria trade hub resulted in improved compliance and revenue collection for the country, hence it has caught the eye of the WCO which is in constant search for state-of-the-art technology for the benefit of its member countries. The application which eliminates direct human contact in the entire import/ export chain leaves no room for engagement in corrupt practices. The system, after its deployment last year, was showcased before international business communities in the Netherlands at an event organised by the NCS in collaboration with the Dutch government. The ComptrollerGeneral of Customs led the Nigerian delegation to the history-making event which has since been attracting more business men to the country. Meanwhile, the WCO, while commending the Dikko-led management of the NCS for the progress so far made in transforming the service, wished the agency every success in its IT modernisation journey while pledging necessary support whenever requested.
NCS Inaugurates clinic as social responsibility project by NAN
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), last week, said it was also committed to social responsibility projects in its communities apart from generating revenue for the federal government. The coordinator of Zone A of the NCS, Mr Victor Gbemudu,
said this at the inauguration of a new clinic at the Customs Training College, Ikeja, Lagos. An assistant comptrollergeneral of customs, Gbemudu, said the establishment of the clinic was part of the six-point agenda of the comptrollergeneral of customs, Alhaji Dikko Abdullahi. “The clinic is available to both
customs officers as well as the community because we all know that health is wealth. We are appealing to the media to inform the community so that they can benefit from the customs’ social responsibilities,” he said. Gbemudu said the level of patronage would determine the expansion of the facility and that the service was trying to
see if it could bring health care facility to the door steps of its neighbours by bridging the gap in reducing health challenges in the community. “This is not the first project done under the customs’ social responsibility; we have the Customs Hospital at Karu, Abuja, and we have a mini-clinic at Apapa, Lagos,” Gbemudu said.
The coordinator said it took the service one year to put the standard clinic, which comprises a nurse station, medical stores, private wards, procedure room, toilets, theatre, pharmacy laboratory as well as male and female ward, together. Other facilities in the hospital include haemocentrifuge, haemo analyzer, microscope,
20 issues
Fani-Kayode’s Mischief By Richard Tersoo Mnenga
There is this popular statement that “silence is the best answer to a fool” but in the ethics of media, it is believed that when certain utterances are left without refutation, they are believed rightly or wrongly to be realities; that is why I have chosen to reply the recent unguarded and mischievous utterances by former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi FaniKayode who has suddenly canonized himself as a “Saint”. While I have nothing personal against the former presidential spokesman of former President Obasanjo, I just want to relate his personality to the fallacious, baseless and spurious sermon he has adopted of recent as his divine message to Nigerians. For the past few days, Chief Kayode has Fani-Kayode been using the social media i.e. facebook and twitter to campaign against the All unreserved apology to the Senate for all his Peoples Congress (APC) and some of its primitive exhibitions as a Special Assistant; renowned chieftains’ particularly General he confessed to the August House that “he MuhammaduBuhari and former Governor of was not brought up as an arrogant person” Lagos State, Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The therefore should be forgiven for his senile last and most recentwas his appearance on actions while serving in the former position. Channels Television on Monday 30th June, While in office as Minister of Aviation for few 2014 where he cast a lot of aspersions on the months, billions of naira was stolen under his two leaders in question; Ican’t condemn his watch and the Economic and Financial Crimes affiliation with Peoples Democratic Party Commission had to shamefully arrest him in against the APC since the choice of a political the National Assembly while he appeared party is his exclusive right as a Nigerian but before the Senate Committee on Aviation. To I will comment on the issues he is raising recover some of his loot, one of the houses he fraudulently acquired near the Aso Villa was against the personalities in question. It is not a hidden fact that Chief Femi Fani- confiscated by the commission. Going by his antecedents as explained Kayode is one of the few Nigerians who earn their living by blackmail and mischief; this had above, what moral authority has Chief Femi paid him well in the past and being conscious Fani-Kayode to publicly attack the likes of of the benefits he derived from his dubious General Buhari and others? I don’t believe actions, he still believeshis usual means of in his postulation that APC is planning to living (blackmail) will bounce him back in the impose an Islamic agenda on Nigeria so as to enslave Christians; if you deeply look at current era hence his new sermon. The Chief while speaking on channels the people he is accusing to have connived television and in other social media outfits, with Northerners to Islamize Nigeria, accused the APC of plots to impose an Islamic you can discover thatTinubu’s wife is a agenda on Nigerians with the planned choice Christian, BisiAkande’s wife is a Christian, of Buhari and Tinubu as Presidential and Ogun State Governor,IbikunleAmosun’s Vice Presidential candidates respectively, wife is a Christian, Lagos State Governor, not minding the pluralistic nature of Nigeria; BabatundeFashola’s wife is a Christian, Edo that the APC and Buhari in particular are State Governor Adams Oshiomole’s late wife sympathizers of Boko Haram who are in was a Christians. Can these people connive support of the wastage of innocent souls with anybody to pursue an agenda where their in Nigeria. That Buhari and his Northern immediate families will be affected? The claim by Chief Kayode that Northerners brothers have seen the leadership of Nigeria as their birthright and for this, they are have seen Nigeria’s leadership as their conniving with a handful of Southerners birthright is another message born out of to remove a southern minority Christian mischief, if he is accusing Nigerians for always and impose an Islamic agenda on Nigeria. supporting a Northern presidency, he should In his sermons, he addressed the APC as first of all blame his late father Chief Remi AlmajiriPeoples Congress that has nothing A.Fani-Kayode who out of patriotism and true sportsmanship, led President ShehuShagari’s to offer to Nigerians. I want to draw the attentions of Nigerians campaign in the South East in 1979 against to the antics of Chief Fani-Kayode. When his kit and kin Chief ObafemiAwolowo.The Chief Obasanjo was sworn in as President in same Fani-Kayode when he defected to APC 1999, Kayode was at the forefront of those was always seen around the General where who saw nothing good in the new civilian he sang a lot of melodious songs and the administration; I remember distinctly when moment it became clear to him that his hidden he called the President a CIA agent not fit ambition of becoming Buhari’s running mate to rule Nigeria. Shortly afterwards, he was was like building castles in the air, he opted for appointed the President’s Special Assistant his usual business of livelihood. It is quite true that Nigeria is a place where on Public Affairs where he immediately changed his music tune from tenor to bass. mediocrity is celebrated and deviants are While serving in that capacity,he took the crowned as heroes but it is high time we assignment so serious that he descended allowed people like Chief Femi Fani-Kayode heavily on anybody that differed with the to know the place they belong to; people like president on policy matters. I can’t forget him should be made known that despite our the day he insulted Chief Sunday Awoniyi (of docility in Nigeria, we have known those to blessed memory)and Col. AbubakarDangiwa believe when they cry out foul. May the Good Lord help us to overcome Umarrtd for crying out against the plot for tenure elongation and other ills perpetrated our trying moments so as to get to 2015 with ultimate peace, national stability and in Aso Rock. When Chief Kayode was nominated as cohesion. Minister in compensation of the mercenary – Comrade Mnenga is a former National he ran for the president and appeared before Organizing Secretary Congress for Progressive the National Assembly, he tendered an Change
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
E-BusinEss/BUSINESS 21
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
E-BusInEss REPORTs
Glo’s Prepaid Roaming Takes Off In Brazil
M-Pesa is a Kenyan online payment platform that has revolutionalised mobile health services in sub-saharan Africa
MTN, Others Plan Mobile Health Across Sub-Saharan Africa By Chima akwaja, Lagos
Mobile operators across the subSaharan Africa region, including MTN Nigeria, are set to launch a new cross-ecosystem partnership designed to provide a range of mobile health services to women and children, with a particular focus on nutrition. According to the Global System for Mobile Association (GSMA), its Mobile for Development mHealth programme will be launched in seven countries – Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Uganda and Zambia –from September 2014. Phase two, which commences in 2015, will incorporate additional partners and services and will address four more countries: Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania. Initial launch partners for the initiative include Gemalto, Hello Doctor, Lifesaver, Mobenzi, Mobilium, MTN, Omega Diagnostics and Samsung. This programme could have far-reaching impact; according to GSMA intelligence, there is a total annual, addressable market of 15.5 million pregnant women and mothers with children under five years of age.
The chief regulatory officer, GSMA, Tom Phillips, said this new mobile ecosystem partnership, developed by the GSMA, is committed to connecting the mobile and health industries to develop commercially sustainable mHealth services that meet public health needs. “The companies in this partnership are working to deliver the objectives of the United Nations Every Woman Every Child Global Strategy as well as the Global Nutrition for Growth Compact in the areas of nutrition and maternal and child health. We call on mobile ecosystem players, health providers, governments, NGOs, civil society groups and others to work with us to launch life-saving mobile health services,” he said. Collectively, the partnership will reduce barriers to handset ownership and connectivity for consumers and health workers by committing to offer discounted Samsung handsets and tablets to consumers and health workers across Africa; provide access to the Samsung ecosystem (e.g. music, video and other value-added services) to be used as an incentive to drive health usage.
Nigerian sports administrators, journalists and consultants currently in Brazil for the World Cup have commended Globacom’s roaming service which had been offering them seamless voice and data services to stay connected with their loved ones at home. Globacom had announced the launch of prepaid roaming service in Brazil to complement postpaid roaming, hitherto, available in that country. The development is expected to excite thousands of Nigerian soccer fans and tourists who have either travelled or still intend to travel to Brazil to witness the on-going 2014 World Cup. The head of Glo Gateway, Globacom’s international gateway division, Steve Stretch, said the prepaid roaming service is offered on Tim Brazil and comes at competitive rates. TIM is the largest mobile operator in Brazil with over 74 million subscribers.
The MTN Group chief commercial officer, Pieter Verkade, said, “This partnership heralds a new era in the delivery of health care in subSaharan Africa where currently access to even the most basic of health services remains the worst in the world. MTN is, therefore, proud to be part of this collaborative effort which will deliver solutions that harnesses the expertise of some of the leading companies in the world to improve access to health care for many of our customers across the seven launch countries.” Pre-embed, a smart health application that provides a range of professional applications, information and services on 80 million Samsung handsets; leverage existing and new MTN subscriber identification modules (SIMs) to allow free access to health content, health registration and data collection via the smart health application; provide simplified access to MTN mobile money, advertising and billing capabilities; and make innovative diagnostics like the Omega Diagnostics Visitect HIV CD4 point of care solution more affordable and accessible via mobile integration.
Collectively, the partnership will reduce barriers to handset ownership and connectivity for consumers and health workers by committing to offer discounted Samsung handsets and tablets to consumers and health workers across Africa
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22
labour matters Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Youth Empowerment: SURE-P Rehabilitate 8 Skills Acquisition Centres The minister of labour and productivity, Emeka Wogu, has revealed that in realisation of SURE-P skills development and empowerment programme, the Technical Education and Training (TVET) project of SURE-P domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity has successfully completed the rehabilitation of eight skills acquisition centres across the federation. The minister made this revelation in Lagos State, during the twin-occasion marking the commissioning of the Federal Ministry of Land and Housing Training Centre, Yaba and the Federal Ministry of Works Training Centre/Central Workshop, Ijora, Lagos. The minister said, “For ease of implementation of the SURE-P TVET skills development and empowerment programme, a strategic plan was conceived to partner with government owned Technical and Vocational Education outfits with special focus on skills development. “Majority of the government training institutions intended to be used for the skills development of our youths were found to be inadequate both in physical structure and equipment content “The response to these gaps was for TVET to utilize some of the SURE-P funds allocated to it and embark on massive upgrading and expanding of government training centres for long term use and this exercise has yielded the right results”. Speaking further, Wogu stated that in addition to the success recorded by TVET in transforming Technical Vocational Training facilities nationwide, it has also embarked on actual training activities all over the Country for which over 5000 beneficiaries are presently undergoing training in various vocations such as ICT, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering for the Power Sector, Automotive Trades, Building and Construction Trades among others. He acknowledged that, President Goodluck Jonathan has through the implementation of SURE-P fulfilled the promises he made to Nigerians. He said, “Indeed, Mr. President, through the SURE-P programme has proven himself to be a man of his words as he has continued to re-invest the subsidy funds into projects that have positive impact on ordinary Nigerians.”
The minister of labour and productivity, Emeka Wogu receiving an award of recognition as the most outstanding labour minister ever in Nigeria, from the President of the Petroleum & Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Comrade Babatunde Ogun
Abuja Bomb Blast, A Cowardly Act – NLC stories By Michael Oche, Abuja
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has said last Thursday’s bomb blast at Emab Plaza in the heart of Abuja which left several persons dead and others injured was a desperate act by “evil-minded persons to kill the robust Nigerian spirit by instilling in us fear.” The union condemned the bombing describing it as cowardly act and urge all true Nigerians and our friends not to be cowed but rise with a common resolve and accord to fight this terror. A statement signed by NLC acting secretary general, Chris Uyot stated that “these wicked souls are a tiny minority and do not represent the Nigerian spirit. We can beat them and we shall beat them.” The statement reads further, “Our strength lies in amicably sorting out our differences and suspicions as well as strengthening
our internal governance regime and institutions. It is evident that our traducers do not discriminate in their campaign of slaughter and destruction. “We call for the judicious use of the resources allocated for fighting terror just as we believe that time has come for Nigerians to be more vigilant by way of taking basic deterrent measures capable of delaying or preventing terrorists from striking at will. “Our security forces, especially the ones at road check points should resist the temptation of creating vulnerable situations for terrorists to strike. Accordingly, we urge the government to appropriately equip them as well as teach them art of speedily screening vehicles in order to avoid build-ups. “We also wish to note that build-ups on the road impact negatively on productivity. Efforts should be made to make them less painful.”
Labour Unions, Govt Partner To Tackle HIV/AIDS In Workplace By Michael Oche, Abuja
A series of meetings in Abuja last week, hosted by Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in collaboration with the Canadian Labour Congress and International Confederation of Trade Union/Africa concluded an agreement between union, government and employer representatives of Nigeria to assess the country’s progress toward complying with the only international standard on HIV and AIDS at the workplace, known as Recommendation 200 of the International Labour Organization (ILO). A statement by the NLC acting secretary general, Chris Uyot stated that the parties have reaffirmed to a tripartite process for determining the scope and terms of reference of the national assessment. he stated that discussions are now underway with funding agencies to support the initiative, which will identify gaps in making the country’s workplaces stronger instruments of change for addressing the pandemic through joint union/employer actions. He stated that, “The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) welcomed the agreement as one that could have lasting impact on the lives of Nigerian workers and their
families. The national Ministry of Labour and Productivity will drive the tripartite process with the involvement of the Federal Ministry of Health with support from the ILO, ILOAIDS and UNAIDS. “Employers will be represented by the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) and the Nigerian Business Coalition against AIDS (NIBUCA). The process was also welcomed by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA). “R200 promotes inclusive dialogue between the three Nigerian players and deals also with the underpinnings of HIV and AIDS, including human rights, stigma and discrimination, inequality and gender issues.” Discussions last week were initiated by the Canadian High Commission in Abuja and the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) because Canada has already undertaken such an assessment, which Nigerians agreed to examine as a model that could be adapted here. The High Commissioner kick-started the process by inviting Embassy representatives in the country from Norway, Sweden and United States to discuss the issue, as each have international programs of their own to deal with HIV and AIDS.
science Tuesday, July 1, 2014
23
96
Speaking of key performance indicators, the Global Innovation Index report said Nigeria ranked 96 out of 110 countries in 2010; 96 out of 125 countries in 2011 and 96 out of 142 countries in 2013 in the science technology and innovation implementation
F E AT U R E S N E W S R E P O R T S I N T E R V I E W
L-R: The supervising Minister of the Science and Technology Ministry , Mrs Omobola Johnson; Niger State Governor, Babangida Aliyu and the permanent secretary of the ministry, Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita during an inspection tour of products at the 13th National Council Of Science And Technology meeting in Minna, Niger State
STI, Critical For Economic Transformation – Aliyu By Nkechi Isaac, Abuja
STI is critical in the quest for grassroot regeneration and empowerment for rapid economic transformation and national development
The Niger State Governor, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, has identified Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) as critical for the regeneration and empowerment of grassroot people for economic transformation and national development. He made this known at the 13th meeting of the national council on science and technology with the theme “Science, technology and innovation policy in Nigeria: prospects and challenges in its implementation at the grassroots” in Minna, Niger State. Saying STI is critical in the quest for grassroot regeneration and empowerment for rapid economic transformation
and national development, he described it as the panacea for turning the nation from a highly consumptive to a productive one. He said, “the prevailing situation in which we have turned ourselves into a commodity driven and consumptive nation at the expense of productive enterprise needs to be reversed right from the grassroot through a well articulated policy of STI system with implementable programmes.” The governor said Niger State is blessed with enormous potentials that are yet to be fully harnessed and reiterated his administration’s commitment to the transformation of the state into investors haven through
its favourable investment climate, policies and the enabling environment of peace and security. According to him, “we intend to focus attention on ST&I for the transformation of the state economy from an agrarian to industrialized one for the realisation of Vision 3-2020. It is pertinent to note that concerted efforts have been put in place to explore and harness the threshold of the state’s natural endowments through the establishment of Industrial Park Development Agency (IPDA) and developed institutional frameworks to support a large variety of agro allied industries.” Earlier in her remarks, the supervising Minister of Science and Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson,
Gov Babangida Aliyu
said innovation had become the lifeblood of economic growth and development and sustainable job creation. According to her, a country’s ability to innovate has become an indicator of the progress it is making towards improving the quality of life of her
24
24 SCIENCE/news
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
STI, Critical For Economic Transformation – Aliyu 23
citizens. She reiterated her ministry’s commitment to the effective implementation of the policy, saying if innovation in science and technology was a measure of the progress that a country was making to improve the quality of life of her citizens, then implementing the STI policy in a way and manner that would benefit the ‘grassroots’ – the majority of whom live in rural areas and make up most of the poor was a clear imperative for the nation. Speaking of key performance indicators, Johnson said the Global Innovation Index report, that seeks to enable countries
AREWA 24 Launches Hausa Language Satellite TV Channel In The North By Abubakar Salihi, Kano
Equal Access to Knowledge Development Initiative announces the launch of AREWA 24, the first Hausa language free to air satellite television channel locally produced by and for northern Nigerians. AREWA 24 was officially launched yesterday and said to be fully dedicated to the people, cultures and values of northern Nigeria and the Hausa speaking sub-region. A press release made available to newsmen said the new channel was set up by a team of over 50 Nigerian media professionals with partnership with Dabo TV and Amara Studios and is broadcast free to air on the Nilesat satellite platform (Nilesat 102, 12226 MHz). “This general entertainment channel celebrates the cultures, lifestyle, music and themes of northern Nigeria”, the statement said. The statement pointed out that AREWA 24 and Equal Access Nigeria are excited about the promise of the channel to deliver entertaining and inspiring programming for the youth, women and men across the region. “With a slate of original and premier programming, AREWA 24’s goal is to create an authentic Hausa-Language television platform that enriches the lives of northern Nigerian viewers and projects the beauty, promise and potential of northern Nigeria across Africa, the Middle East and worldwide”, the statement added. The head of production of the station, Dr. Sani Muazu explained that “AREWA 24 is our chance to sing our song, so the whole world can see how gifted Arewa people are and appreciate the beauty and values in our diverse cultures”.
Top 3 HeadlineS ➊Minister Inaugu-
benchmark the success or otherwise of their STI policies was an index that the nation must have in its consciousness as it implemented the STI policy. “In 2010, Nigeria ranked 96 out of xxx countries, in 2011 we ranked 96 out of 125 countries and 2013, and Nigeria ranked 96 out of 142 countries. The increasing denominator of countries ranked could imply that we are making slow and steady progress but unfortunately we still fall into the lower quartiles of the rankings,” she added. Highlighting some of the steps taken for the successful implementation of the
By Nkechi Isaac, Abuja
➌ Delta Earmarks N1.4b To Upgrade Radio, TV Stations
short news
By Bernard Tolani Dada, Uyo
As part of effort towards enhancing healthcare delivery in the state, authorities of University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH),Uyo, Akwa Ibom State yesterday commissioned an ultra-modern 20-room amenity ward. The Chief Medical Director of the UUTH, Prof. Etete Peters explained that the project conceived by the current management of the hospital was to encourage patients to seek medical refuge under a congenial and comfortable environment.
(KPIs) for monitoring and evaluation of the ST&I Policy implementation, among others. In his address, the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Niger State, Barr. Abbas Bello, underscored the importance of STI, describing them as key drivers for national and socio-economic development. He said, “there is evidence based consensus on the critical role of STI as the key drivers of national socioeconomic development. All progress of human endeavour was made possible by research and development driven Knowledge and Technology Intensive Industries (KTI).”
Minister Inaugurates Body To Implement STI Policy
rates Body To Implement STI Policy ➋ AREWA 24 Launches Hausa Language Satellite
UUTH Commissions Modern Amenity Ward
The increasing denominator of countries ranked could imply that we are making slow and steady
policy, the minister said the ministry had disseminated the revised national ST&I policy to various stakeholders, embarked on extensive media campaign to sensitise the populace and create awareness for the policy and was holding a regional stakeholders forum and dialogue on the right implementation of the policy. Other steps include the establishment of the National Research and Innovation Council (NRIC) chaired by Mr. President; commencement of processes for international collaboration with UNESCO and Michigan State University in the US; technical support and the development of Key Performance Indicators
Mrs. Omobola Johnson
The supervising Minister of Science and Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson, has inaugurated a 20- member forum of state commissioners for science and technology to man the effective implementation of the revised Science, Technology And Innovation (STI) policy in the various states of the federation. Speaking at the inauguration at the just concluded 13th National Council of Science and Technology with the theme “Science, technology and innovation policy in Nigeria: prospects and challenges in its implementation at the grassroots” in Minna, Niger State, the minis-
Delta Earmarks N1.4b To Upgrade Radio, TV Stations By Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba
Delta State government says it has earmarked the sum of N1.4 billion for the upgrading of the radio and television stations in Warri and Asaba. The State Commissioner for Information, Barr. Chike Ogeah, who spoke to journalists in Asaba yesterday on this disclosed that the project was being executed in phases and expressed satisfaction with
ter said the forum was expected to provide a common platform for the ministry and its counterparts to collaborate on issues of polices as well as design and implement STI programmes of national importance. Other tasks set for the forum includes to encourage the exchange of ideas and sharing of experiences both vertically (between states and the federal) and horizontally (across the 36 states and the FCT) for the sake of creating a common pool of STI competencies, capacities and expert database that could be optimized to enhance competitive standing of Nigeria. The forum is also expected to provide a platform for advocating and operationising the partnership that
the pace of installation of modern digital equipment especially at the Delta Broadcasting Station (DBS) Asaba. Saying the work will be completed in two months’ time, Barr. Ogeah further disclosed that broadcasting signals of the station would be received in Ghana and other nearby countries. He said the installation of modern facilities would not only enhance production but would also improve the technical knowledge of the staff in broadcasting. He noted that with the Ubulu-uku transmitter station well equippedwith modern facilities to boost frequency ready, the entire
N1.4 billion
Delta State government says it has earmarked the sum of N1.4 billion for the upgrading of the radio and television stations in Warri and Asaba
would bring the public sector, private interest and the academia to facilitate continuous research, development and industrial application of science and technology at both the federal and state levels. In her remarks, the permanent secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita, said the forum was established to provide a veritable platform and political will to fasttrack the process of innovation and strengthen entrepreneurship in the country. According to her, the platform is expected to provide a platform that will ensure implementation and cascading of all resolutions on STI developmental activities at the state and local government levels.
Delta State would be covered effectively at the end of the installation. He said the state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan had ordered the procurement of the most modern broadcasting equipment that would enhance the station’s frequency in reaching out to Deltans especially those at the grassroots. The information commissioner assured the state government’s readiness to train the workers and enable them master the use of the latest technology in broadcasting for work efficiency. His words: “We can’t make this kind of improvement without training the workforce to enhance production”.
‘Osun’s First Raw Gold To Be Presented Before End Of Year’ By Joshua Dada, Osogbo
All is set for the mining of the first gold in Ilesha, Osun State following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government and an Australian mining firm, Andalusian Mining Industry. The ceremony took place at the Government House, Osogbo with Governor Rauf Aregbesola signing on behalf of the state. The leader of the mining firm, Colin
Rauf Aregbesola
Miller told the governor that his company would present the first raw gold to the people of the state before the end this year. The governor said the Australian mining firm had conducted a geological survey which confirmed that there is a huge deposit of gold in Ilesha. Aregbesola said the discovery presented the state the opportunity to partner Andalusian in the breakdown, exploration and mining of gold in the state, adding the people and the state looked forward to
having maximum advantage of the mining firm’s presence in the state The governor described gold mining in state as a major breakthrough to the government and a business opportunity for the state. Aregbesola who said Osun had joined the league of non-oil mineral producing states in the country added his government looked forward to speedy operation and intervention in the prospecting for gold before the end of the year.
NEWS /SCIENCE 25
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
science
titbits
Compiled by Nkechi Isaac
➏ ➐
➋ ➋ ➌➊ ➎
➊ GM Crops: UK Scientists Call For New Trials A new report on genetically modified (GM) crops, commissioned by the prime minister, calls for more UK field trials and fewer EU restrictions. The Council for Science and Technology (CST) wants “public good” GM varieties to be grown and tested in the UK. It says GM crops should be assessed individually - like pharmaceuticals - taking potential benefits into account. —(BBC)
➋ Planet X Myth Debunked
Layer Identified
➍
❹ Scientists Expect Traces
Of Ocean Radiation Soon
Scientists have crowdsourced a network of volunteers taking water samples at beaches along the U.S. West Coast in hopes of capturing a detailed look at low levels of radiation drifting across the ocean since the 2011 tsunami that devastated a nuclear power plant in Japan. With the risk to public health extremely low, the effort is more about perfecting computer models that will better predict chemical and radiation spills in the future than bracing for a threat, researchers say. —(Newsdaily)
Top 3 Headlines ➊ ‘Careless
Farming Adding To Floods’
➋ GM Crops: UK Scientists Call For New Trials ➌ Scientists
Expect Traces Of Ocean Radiation Soon
➌ New Threat To Ozone
It was an elusive planet that for 200 years appeared to explain Uranus’s wobbly orbit. And there was the sister sun theorized to be near our solar system that caused asteroids to swerve toward Earth. There is just one problem: neither “Planet X” nor “Nemesis” ever existed, researchers now say. Or probably not. “The outer solar system probably does not contain a large gas giant planet (“Planet X”), or
a small, companion star (“Nemesis”),” concluded University of Pennsylvania astronomer Kevin Luhman, who directed the study using NASA’s Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) telescope. The results were published in the most recent edition of The Astrophysical Journal. Most theories had estimated Planet X to be up to four times the size of Jupiter -- the biggest planet in our solar system. —(Newsdaily)
Scientists have identified four new man-made gases that are contributing to the depletion of the ozone layer. Two of the gases are accumulating at a rate that is causing concern among researchers. Worries over the growing ozone hole have seen the production of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) gases restricted since the mid 1980s. But the precise origin of these new, similar substances remains a mystery, say scientists. Lying in the atmosphere, between 15 and 30km above the surface of the Earth, the ozone layer plays a critical role in blocking harmful UV rays, which cause cancers in humans and reproductive problems in animals. —(BBC)
➏ SpaceX Supply Run To Space Station Postponed The next supply run to the International Space Station has been delayed. SpaceX was scheduled to launch a cargo ship from Cape Canaveral, Florida, before dawn on Sunday. But on Thursday, the private company said it needed more time and postponed the launch for two weeks, until March 30. The unmanned capsule named Dragon holds about 2 tons of supplies and experiments. It will also take up a pair of legs for the humanoid robot at the space station. Until now, Robonaut has been stuck on a pedestal. —(Reuters)
Careless farming
➎ ‘Careless
Farming Adding To Floods’
The UK government is discussing new rules to stop farmers contributing to flooding through poor land management. Experts say careless farming has made floods worse in Somerset and elsewhere. Some upland farmers have caused soil and water to flush
into rivers by leaving fields bare and compacting land with cattle and heavy machinery. Environmentalists say grants should be withheld if farms are managed in a way that encourages floods - but farmers don’t want more regulations. Scientists are particularly
concerned about maize, the crop that creates most rainfall run-off. Some experts want maize to be banned from steep slopes altogether because its bare rows contribute so much to flooding and silt. —(BBC)
26 SCIENCE/feature
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Technology Transfer Hastens National Development - Bindir
The director-general of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Engr. Umar Buba Bindir, emphasises the importance of technology transfer to national development, pointing to monitoring and regulating technology transfer as key in achieving the development. In this interview with NKECHI ISAAC, he x-rays steps taken by the agency in this regard NOTAP, some time ago, said it would roll out kerosene fridge. How far have you gone in respect of this because it seems to be of interest to many Nigerians?
short BIO OF Umar Buba Bindir
The request was to manufacture a prototype and so because this year we do not have a budget line on it, therefore there’s a big question mark on the speedy progress of the project, but we hope that by next year if we have some funding on our NOTAP industry partnerships we should be able to manufacture a number of prototypes, run the engineering texts and know if we will be able to manufacture it in Nigeria or not. The aim of this project we know is to conserve energy and tackle the problem of inadequate power supply but kerosene is not cheap and readily available to rural dwellers. Are you considering other sources of renewable energy for this project?
Umar Buba Bindir (PhD) is the directorgeneral of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP). He did his Doctoral Degree Programme in Machinery Design and Development Engineering at the Cranfield University, UK.
The principles on which the kerosene fired fridge works is that you have a source of heat directly that is heating the refrigerant and that is where kerosene comes in but actually if we start manufacturing it from where it is we can be able to understand exactly how to modify the fridge and make sure that it can work with firewood, it can work where people are cooking so that you can have the coil of the fridge maybe on gas, if they have access
South Africa Commences Implementation Of Renewable Energy Projects With South Africa’s energy provision infrastructure under severe pressure, the government has made considerable strides towards implementing infrastructure projects, of which some are ready to supply the national energy grid – managed by ESKOM. –VENTURES AFRICA
Trending Science Stories ➊ Nanoparticles
Target Cancer-Fighting Immune Cells ➋ Blocking autophagy with malaria drug may help overcome resistance to BRAF drugs in melanoma ➌ Computer algorithm identifies genes whose activation is lethal to bacteria ➍ Synthetic Biologists Shine Light on Genetic Circuit Analysis
Science Daily
to gas, on the stove if they are using kerosene, or on their local stove if they are using firewood. Whatever source you can have you can be able to deploy the component of the fridge at that level to force the refrigerant to expand and give you a bit of cooling effect. But the first thing for us is the technology, if we can be able to reverse and engineer it, it means that we can have people with skills to make this facility, we can have people who understand how it works and embody the knowledge into a physical thing. Technology transfer is not about the product itself, it’s about the skills, it’s about the knowhow and if we can be able to extract this with the help of friscoglass, who have promised to help us with the documentations to help with the new drawings, how to charge the system, with what type of refrigerant. This is the aim of NOTAP to develop the capacity and capability at the technology level. Once you understand the technology producing products is called innovations, it means that you can be able to make various options depending on the options on the ground. I know that this project will create jobs. How many are you targeting directly or indirectly?
You know any product must have evolved from some kind of tech-
Umar Bindir
nological sources; scientists must have worked to come up with the principles and explanations, which are now changed by engineers to become products that are useful to help people. This proof of concepts that engineers have come up on the table are not really products, then you have to work harder to make it simpler, cheaper to make and attractive at the right price so throughout that chain it is knowledge work that you are using but when it comes to this product, certainly you expect people to be selling the raw materials, so you have jobs there; you’ll expect people to be embodying the raw materials into products; then you have direct labour; then you expect people to market and brand it, you have jobs there; then you expect people to maintain and repair it, you have jobs there. All these are the range of jobs that you cannot expect to say maybe it will employ 10, 15 or 100 until you come up with the product, it is a product that is driven by its own brand to demonstrate that it is competitive and people are hungry for it. When you have massive hunger for your product,of course you are building a big industry that will employ more people, sell more and your impact on the economy will be very visible. This is the intention of this product, which is to pick these products, raise Nigerians’ skills up to the level whereby they can be able to innovate to make sure that we can come up with competitive products to win the heart of customers not only in Nigeria but along the West African
coast as well. With all the various knowledge coming up in Nigeria, what is the office doing to regulate technology transfer agreement in Nigeria, are there some deliverables so far?
Technology transfer is based on the simple principles of technology is available somewhere and it is needed somewhere, so you are moving it. Our work is to regulate that in Nigeria. There are two ways technology can be transferred. First, we need roads, oil, gas and so on, it is technology that establishes them. Technology that refines and transform, we need telephones, radios and television and it is technology that moves this sector. We need automobile and so on and it is technology that drives them. As a country, when you look at all these things you need, ideally you start looking for technology to drive them; we need technology for agriculture, water. Normally technology that drives industries come from the knowledge institutions- the universities, the polytechnics and the research institutions. So, Nigeria ran to these establishments, unfortunately these knowledge institutions are not producing the kind of knowledge and technology required to move the industry because we are a country, so we went to other countries where they have perfected this and that is the kind of technology transfer that we coordinate. It is not new that anytime you see a big project it is either with a foreign company or with a huge content of technology service providers from foreign countries.
Airtel Zambia Forced To Refund Subscribers
SWIFT’s African Business Dwarfs Global Growth The Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) has released data showing that its business in Africa has outperformed the total growth of the business globally. In the year to date, African volumes grew by more than 16 percent, almost doubling SWIFT worldwide’s 10 percent growth, highlighting the vitality of the region. “Africa is an increasingly important market for SWIFT. Again this year it has outperformed most of our other regions and has proven itself a vital component of our business globally,” said Hugo Smit, SWIFT’s Head of Africa South at the African Regional Conference (ARC) held in Marrakesh, Morocco. –VENTURES AFRICA
Top THREE electricity distribution companies IN NIGERIA
➊
Abuja electricity distribution company
➋
Ibadan distribution company
➌
Ikeja distribution company
When you have massive hunger for your product,of course you are building a big industry that will employ more people, sell more and your impact on the economy will be very visible
28, 000
Airtel Zambia has revealed it has refunded airtime to over 28,000 subscribers after intervention of the country’s
Airtel Zambia has revealed it has refunded airtime to over 28,000 subscribers after intervention of the country’s regulatory body, Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA). ZICTA said about 28,000 Airtel customers had been erroneously marked as roaming subscribers and lost airtime amounting to $180 each. “Airtel had refunded the affected subscribers and given them 30 minutes of free talk-time for use within the Airtel network as compensation for inconvenience caused,” said ZICTA public relations manager Ngabo Nankonde. –VENTURES AFRICA
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
zonal watch
27
ANAMBRA IMO ABIA EBONYI ENUGU
Ebonyi Community Accuses State Govt Of Marginalisation OBINNA OgBONNAYA, Abakaliki
Traditional rulers, leaders of thought, town union presidents and women groups in the seven clans that make up Igboassa Community in Ishielu local government area of Ebonyi State, have described as unfortunate and regrettable the marginalisation of the community by Governor Martin Elechi’s administration. The traditional rulers and different groups made their feelings known to LEADERSHP when they endorsed Chief Obinna Ogba, former state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as
their consensus candidate for the Ebonyi Central Senatorial Zone ahead of the 2015 general elections. Addressing the people, the traditional ruler of Amezu community, Ezeogo Micheal Egbo said that the people are yet to experience any infrastructural, human or social development in the seven years of Chief Elechi’s administration, adding that they have been marginalised by the administration. He said, “The Nkalagu-Nigercem-Ikem road is a death trap; the state government has frustrated all investors that came to
revitalise Nigercem; none of the unity bridges is sited in Igboassa; our youths after graduation are not given jobs; we would have preferred to remain in Enugu State if we had anticipated the gross marginalisation”. He noted that efforts made by the people to attract infrastructural development to the community have been thwarted by the state government, pointing out that the community gave the present administration all the needed support during the last general elections and wondered why such treatment was being meted out to them.
Poultry Farmers Call For Ban On Chicken, Turkey Importation BY OKeCHUKWU OBetA, Awka
Poultry farmers and other stakeholders in the business including manufacturers of poultry feeds and drugs have urged the federal government to ban the importation of chicken and turkey, and introduce measures to encourage poultry farmers in the country to boost the supply locally. The call was made by stakeholders in poultry farming at the weekend in Awka, the Anambra State capital, during a one-day workshop organised for poultry farmers in the state by Amo Byng Nigeria Limited, producers of poultry feeds and concen-
trates, day old chicks and point of lay pullers. Although the state commissioner for agriculture, Chief Nnamdi Meko disclosed the various programmes of the state government to boost agricultural activities in the state, particularly through mechanised agriculture, the assistant general manager, Amo Nig. Ltd, Mr Sokehinsi Akinwunmi described poultry business as very expensive because of the current cost of raw materials, especially maize and soya and urged the federal government to introduce interventionist measures in the industry to boost the output of farmers.
Imo West Has Enjoyed Dividends Of Democracy - Sen Uzodinma
HeadS FROM tHe ZONe
BY ejIKe ejIKe, Abuja
➔ the first son of late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, Charles Oputa, a.k.a Charley Boy, at the weekend stopped Imo State governor Rochas Okorocha from making a speech during the funeral mass organised for the eminent jurist at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Oguta.
➔ The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has confirmed Chief Victor Umeh as national chairman, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). But the contender to the position, Chief Maxi Okwu, said he would file an appeal at the Supreme Court against the judgement.
L-R: Son of Igwe of Nnewi; Prince Obi Orizu, Works Minister; Arc Mike Onolememen, Igwe Nnewi; HRH (Dr.) K. O. N. Orizu and Hon Chris Azubogu at the palace of the Igwe in Nnewi, Anambra State during the official flag - off of reconstruction and rehabilitation works on Ikemba Drive in Anambra state.
Ndlea arrests 187 Suspected drug Peddlers In Imo BY STANLEY UZOARU, Owerri
The Imo State command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised the alarm that drug peddlers in the state now collaborate with some courier agencies to ply their illicit business, just as the agency announced the arrest of 187 suspected drug peddlers in
the state. Disclosing this to newsmen at the weekend during the United Nations Drug Week, the state commander, Assiana Nimbang, revealed that operatives of the agency arrested some workers of courier services in the state who hid some raps of cocaine inside the plugs of electrical appliances meant for delivery to
their owners. She also announced that the command has so far arrested 187 suspected drug peddlers, noting that 17 of them were pregnant women and nursing mothers. Nimbang said that most of the arrested pregnant women and nursing mothers claimed they were introduced into the business by their husbands.
Insecurity: Coalition Calls For Unity BY PeMBI DAvID-StePHeN, Abuja
The national co-ordinator of the South East Zone and spokesman of the PDP Gender Coalition Initiative, Mr Chibuzo Martins Opara has called on Nigerians not to despair in the face of threats by terrorists aimed at destabilising the country. Reacting to the recent bomb
blasts in Abuja and some other parts of the country, Mr Opara stated that the activities of terrorists rather than divide the country will strengthen our bond of unity as a people. Opara who lamented that women and children have been the worst victims of the destructive activities of terrorists in Nigeria called on all Nigerians to
support President Goodluck Jonathan in his effort to restore normalcy to our security system. He said Nigeria cannot give in to those who are hellbent on fomenting trouble and threatening her peace and unity, and called on all Nigerians to unite with one voice in condemning and confronting the monster called terrorism in all its ramifications.
Chairman, Senate Committee on Aviation and senator representing Imo West senatorial district, Senator Hope Uzodimma has said that his journey to the Senate has brought the dividends of democracy to his people. The senator, who was speaking to Orlu community in the USA, noted that his achievements as the senator representing Imo West in the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly included the construction and asphalting of about 10 roads, attraction of 20 electricity projects to different communities, over 10 water projects, the renovation of many schools and health centres, including construction of ICT centres, employment of no less than 200 Orlu graduate sons and daughters as well as the empowerment of well over 1,000 women and youths through a special skill acquisition programme. According to a press statement sent to LEADERSHIP, the senator further revealed that his special empowerment programme for Orlu people on December 16, 2013 did not only make history as the first of its kind in Orlu zone and indeed Imo State in general, as he distributed 27 brand new Toyota buses to the 12 local government areas in Orlu, gave out over 20 SUVs and other cars to deserving Orlu indigenes, empowered Orlu youths and women with 150 auto rickshaws (Keke NAPEP), 300 motorcycles and hundreds of sewing machines and hair dressing equipment. He added that these were solely from his personal resources in line with his known pedigree of being a voluntary slave to generosity. According to him, he has never been driven by the desire to acquire estates but by the desire to add value to the lives of fellow human beings. He maintained that the difference between the Orlu zone he met as senator and Orlu zone today is like the difference between day and night and that beyond all doubts, Orlu zone is far better off today than it was three years ago. The senator announced that he was working in tandem with a committee set up by Orlu Catholic Diocese to find relief for the Orlu victims of the Boko Haram crisis in some northern states. He reiterated that as the largest senatorial district in Nigeria and the largest and most populous zone in Imo State, Orlu would no longer be short-changed or play second fiddle in Imo politics but strive to get whatever it desires as 2015 approaches.
28 zonal watch (South-East)
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
project report
Ogbunike Cave: Anambra’s Unexploited Goldmine
BY OKECHUKWU OBETA, Awka
Anambra State governor Willie Obiano has flagged-off the construction of the threekilometre road leading to the famous Ogbunike Cave in Oyi local government area of the state. The road construction would start from the popular St. Monica’s College junction on the old EnuguOnitsha road. The action of the governor, many say, signposts his administration’s determination to explore other sources of revenue instead of relying solely on the monthly federal government allocations to the state. Before the flag-off of the road construction, the only sign of the government’s presence at the cave were the about 317 steps constructed by the government sometime in 1997 along the walkway that leads tourists from the hill down to the valley where the caves are located in a thick forest. As a result of the bad condition of the road, commercial motorcyclists make brisk business conveying tourists to the cave from the St. Monica’s College junction. Mr Sunday Uche, one of the commercial motorcyclists who operate on the route told LEADERSHIP that they charge N300 to convey a tourist to the cave. He, however, said that if two tourists accept to be conveyed on a bike, two of them may be charged between N450 and N500. Located in a valley covered by tropical rain forest, the cave which is made up of a collection of caves had been in use over centuries by tourists from both within and outside the shores of the country. Uche stated that people from various parts of the country and even foreigners visit the cave. He said that the cave hosts higher numbers of tourists during festive periods, like Christmas and New Year, during public holidays and when students are on holidays. Although 21-year-old Dozie Ifeanyi, a National Diploma student of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, who works as one of the guides on parttime basis said they don’t charge tourists any specific amount to assist them to go to the cave and the adjoining waterfalls, Uche, however disclosed that the managers of the cave charge as much as N18,000 from tourists who come in full 608 buses and between N8,000 and N9,000 from those in a mini-bus. A waiver is normally given to
Chime
News Behind The News
Police Abort Unveiling Of Report On Execution Of Enugu 2013 Budget BY MIKE UBANI, Enugu
Ogbunike Cave
students and journalists as well as tourists who obtained permission from the traditional ruler of Ogbunike. Uche and Ifeanyi hailed the state governor, Chief Obiano for awarding the contract for the construction of the road leading to the cave. Ifeanyi, however, urged the state government to go beyond constructing the road leading to the famous cave. He wants the government to fully develop the cave by constructing a five-star hotel in the area, build Animal Park as well as sports stadium among facilities for leisure to boost the revenue of the state and provide employment for the teeming unemployed youths. Said Ifeanyi: “Tourists who come here complain of where to buy food and even some soft drinks. There is no shelter for them in case the rain is falling. So, when they come, they don’t like spending much time because there is nothing here for them to buy when they are hungry or something like that, so they only come and hurry to go”. He said he does not charge tourists any fee to guide them to the cave because according to him, “I see it as part of pleasure. At times, some of them would give me something when they are going, but I don’t charge any amount to guide a tourist.” Ogbunike Cave is indeed a destination for tourists. Okorie Ben, a final year student of Economics at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka and Stephanie Nnaji, a Political Science student of the institution were happy to be at the cave. They came along with many of their friends to behold the wonders of nature at Ogbunike. Ben, an indigene of the nearby Imo State said he decided
The main cave consists of a massive structure with a big open chamber of about 5m high, 10m wide and 30m long at the entrance. There are 10 tunnels at the main chamber leading to different directions. Within the tunnels are big chambers and other tunnels of varying lengths
to visit the cave before passing out from the university so that he would not regret not visiting to view the cave now that it is closer to him. For Nnaji, she said: “I have heard the story of how scary the cave is, so I decided to come and have the scary feeling and all about the cave and the waterfall”. The main cave consists of a massive structure with a big open chamber of about 5m high, 10m wide and 30m long at the entrance. There are 10 tunnels at the main chamber leading to different directions. Within the tunnels are big chambers and other tunnels of varying lengths, some of them inter-connected. The caves are occupied by a large colony of bats of various sizes. There are streams and bodies of water at various places. A stream flows out from one of the tunnels into a rapid flowing river known as River Nkissa. At the meeting point of the river and the stream, one can feel the warm water from the caves and the cold river water. Besides, this portion of the river is a table land of about 5 X 5 square metres used as a relaxation spot by visitors to the caves. The immediate environment of the caves up to about 200 metres radius is a thick tropical rainforest type of vegetation. The site has sufficient boundaries (20 hectares) to protect its values from direct effects of human encroachment. Ogbunike Cave, according to Uche, is located on the land owned by the Ifite clan of the ancient Ogbunike town, the ancestral home of the late Nigerian colorful politician and one-time Senate president, Rt. Hon Dr Chuba Okadigbo. The cave, according to historical record, was discovered by a hunter called Ukwa.
The Enugu State Police Command at the weekend stopped the Enugu Citizens’ Forum, a coalition of about 50 civil society organisations in the state, from presenting its findings on the level of execution of the projects provided for in the 2013 budget of the Enugu State government, as well as federal government’s projects in the state during the year under review. Soon after the event started at Oakland Amusement Park located near the Ebeano Tunnel, Enugu, the state capital, policemen numbering about four chased the organisers and participants away from the hall where the event was taking place. The leader of the team said he acted on the instruction of the commissioner of police, Enugu State Police Command, Mr Adamu Mohammed Abubakar. Incidentally, Mr Abubakar was at the time of the incident, presiding over a peace and conflict resolution conference organised by his command in conjunction with the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Enugu State, in a separate hall in the same Oakland Amusement Park. The coordinator of the forum, Barrister Cromwell Chibuzo, told journalists that the organisation wrote to the relevant ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) in the state before embarking on the monitoring of the projects, as well as invited some government officials to the unveiling of its findings on the extent the state government implemented the 2013 budget. Some of the invited government officials were already seated when the police stormed the hall to disperse the participants. LEADERSHIP gathered from a source close to the organisers that the government was miffed because the forum failed to submit an advance copy of its findings to the Sullivan Chime-led administration, hence the police moved in to abort the programme. Chibuzo said he was not bound by any law of the country to submit the forum’s findings on the level of implementation of the state’s budget to the state government before presenting same to members of the public. The command’s public relations officer (PPRO), Ebere Amarizu,who spoke to journalists after the police aborted the function denied knowledge of the incident, adding that he was only concerned with the success of the conference on peace and conflict resolution which held at the same venue.
fct watch
29
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
400
The senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Sen. Phillip Aduda, has donated over 400 bags of millets, 250 bags of sugar and undisclosed cash to Muslim faithful for daily breaking of fast.
ABAJI AMAC BWARI GWAGWALADA KUJE KWALI
AbAji Boss Reiterates Commitment To Infrastructural Development The chairman of Abaji area council, Hon. Yahaya Garba, has reiterated the council’s commitment to provide basis amenities that would improve infrastructural development. This was even as the council recently marked the one year anniversary of the present administration. —By Igho Oyoyo
AMAC Insecurity: Jiba Urges Residents To Be Prayerful The chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Hon. Micah Jiba, has called on residents of the council and the entire Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to be prayerful and also support efforts of the federal government to tackle the current security challenges plaguing the nation. —By Igho Oyoyo An orange hawker in garki village. By Igho oyoyo
Why Native Are Losing Hope Over Garki Resettlement By Igho oyoyo
Council of chiefs and Garki indigenes thought succor have come to the natives when they were invited to be part of the ministerial committee on the implementation of the Apo resettlement scheme which was inaugurated by the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, on February 14, 2013. They believed the committee will carry out the task set before it in a sincere and transparent manner which would bring an end to the controversy surrounding the resettlement of indigenes in the FCT. Sequel to this, they acknowledged receipt of the report of the committee which was submitted in March, 2013 and commended the minster of state for inaugurating the committee to resolve the issues plaguing the resettlement scheme, saying that the inauguration of the committee was an excellent job. According to the indigenes who acknowledged that they went through the report, they passed a vote of confidence on the minister for her outstanding qualities in handling the resettlement and compensation matter, commending her for taking bold steps to correct all the wrongs by
officials of the Resettlement and Compensation Department of the FCT Administration (FCTA). The indigenes, as a result of the confidence they had in the minister, assured her of their support and cooperation in the development of the FCT and the area councils, in line with the President Goodluck Jonathan’s master plan for Abuja, stating that the communities and stakeholders were studying the report to enable them come up with summary of the input which they submitted in March 5, 2013. However, several months after the submission of the report, the indigenes have expressed over the inaction and inactivity of the minister and officials of the FCTA, saying that nothing has been done to prove that there was any sincerity intentions in the scheme. Speaking to LEADERSHIP, the Magajin Garki, Mr Joel Yezplace, said that the FCTA has failed to implement the agreement reached with the resettlement and compensation committee headed by the minister, saying that they are not satisfied with the slow pace of work by the implementation committee, noting that the entire arrangement lacks sincerity of purpose. Yezplace said, “we read recently in the dailies that the minister has given a two month directive
torelocate the indigenes and move the community out, but it is evident that such arrangement is not realistic. In fact, as I am speaking to you, there is no sign to show that she means her words. Garki indigenes do not intend to move because that statement is not correct and there is no tangible thing on ground to show the seriousness of that statement. “We have not seen any signs that will warrant our movement, if the minister has put anything in place, by now, we would have been able to see practical results. We are not chickens or animals that they can move any how they like. Even at that, if anybody wants to move animal, there must be a process. In fact, we have lost total confidence in the FCT administration because they have kept us in the dark.” According to him, “the administration has nothing serious to offer the natives and if the government does not stop the developers in our communities, we will mobilise our youths to stop any further work on the commercial plots at Garki resettlement area. The government stopped us from building any structure, yet no alternative has been provided for our children. We do not know our fate anymore nor what to tell our children if they want to build in the future.”
bwAri Expert Cautions Residents Against Farming Close To Residential Areas An environmental expert, Obinna Eze, has called on Bwari area council residents to stop farming activities close to their homes. Speaking exclusively to LEADERSHIP, Eze said that the cultivation of farmland close to residential areas will attract mosquitoes and other insects that will negatively affect the health of the people. —By Chika Mefor
GwAGwAlAdA Boss Sues For Peace The chairman of Gwagwalada area council, Alh. Abubakar Jibrin-Giri, has called on residents of the council to continue to preach the gospel of peace, urging them to live in peace with one another. Giri maintained that development can only be achieved where peace reigns. —By Chika Mefor
Kuje Chairman Distributes Learning Materials To Schools The chairman of Kuje area council, Hon. Shaban Tete, has commenced distribution of learning materials, note books and text books to schools in the council to improve students education standards. —By Igho Oyoyo
KwAli Residents Commend Council Over Free Medical Care
30
Residents of Kwali area council have commended the council’s administration over the free medical services given to residents. Speaking to LEADERSHIP, residents said that the exercise enabled indigent residents to benefit from the health care service delivery, adding that it was the first time any administration have rendered such service.
30 FCT watch/NEWS
APC Commissions FCT Office, Inaugurates Excos By Chika Okeke
The Federal Capital Territory chapter of the All Progressive Party (APC) has commissioned its secretariat in Abuja and sworn in newly elected Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) executives. Speaking at the ceremony, the chairman of the chapter, Hon Abdulmalik Usman, charged the executives to embark on house to house campaign with the aim to sensitise electorates on the need to cast their votes for APC. He said, “I charge the newly elected executives to embark on house to house campaign and sensitise people on the need to vote for the APC because they are the only party that will create positive change.” He enjoined unregistered voters to register and collect their voter’s card, adding that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would soon commence the distribution of permanent voter’s card. In his address, the secretarygeneral of the Alliance for Credible Elections (ACE), Comrade Emma Ezeazu, harped on the essence of building a strong opposition required to nurture democracy, saying that it was the only means to salvage the people and strengthen the party. He said, “there is need to have a strong opposition because without a strong opposition our democracy will not grow. If you don’t have real competition to salvage the people the party`s strength will be reduced.” Ezeazu also donated four cars and eight motorcycles to the chapter, saying “I made this donation to build the party and make them stronger so that they can perform creditably in the upcoming election. Whatever I am doing, it is to strengthen opposition so that there will be real competition to salvage the people.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Board Tasks Intending Pilgrims On Values Of Hajj BY NAN
The Federal Capital Territory Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board yesterday advised the 2014 intending Muslim pilgrims to uphold high values and morals during the exercise. The director of the board, Hajia Fatima Sulaiman, gave the task while addressing the intending pilgrims at the annual zonal workshop on pilgrims’ education and orientation in Abuja.
According to her, the workshop was aimed at updating the stakeholders on pilgrims’ education and orientation programme for the 2014 Hajj. Sulaiman said that the workshop was also expected to impact positively on the intending pilgrims’ moral and spiritual alertness towards achieving a successful Hajj. She identified attitudinal and operational challenges as threats to all parties involved
in Hajj operations. She expressed gratitude to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for articulating policies and measures aimed at addressing the operational issues. Sulaiman said that the attitudinal problems were more tasking as it could only be addressed by the intending pilgrims themselves through the active guidance of the stakeholders involved. She said that to overcome the
attitudinal problems diligence, patience, perseverance, honesty and dexterity are needed from the officials involved. “These are the reasons why the board and other sister agencies organised various enlightenment programmes for both the intending pilgrims and Hajj officials. Such programmes will avail the intending pilgrims of the opportunity to know what Hajj is all about even before going to the holy land,’’ she said.
L-R: Special Assistant to the president on Public Affairs, Nasir Zahradeen, Major General Chris Olukolade, co-ordinator of the National Information Centre, Mr Mike Omeri and the assistant commissioner of Police, Mr. Frank Mba during a press briefing on the Emab Plaza bomb blast in Abuja. PHOTO BY OKEKE JANE
Ramadan: LG Boss Urges Muslims To Pray For Peace By Igho Oyoyo
Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Hon. Micah Jiba, has urged Muslim faithful to utilise the Ramadan fasting season to offer prayers for peace and unity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and the whole nation. Speaking at the weekend in Abuja, Jiba described the month
of Ramadan as a sacred period during which faithful pray with earnest expectation from God, adding that Nigerians especially Muslims should take advantage of the holy month to seek the face of God to end the current security challenges ravaging the nation. According to Jiba, “Ramadan is the month that Muslims believe that the Quran was
revealed to Prophet Mohammed. It is a period that they should reflect on the wisdom and guidance that comes with faith. They should also reflect on the responsibility that human beings have to one another and to God. “Like many people of different faith who have seen Ramadan throughout our communities, I know this to be a festive period
and I also know that it is also a period of intense devotion and reflection; a time that Muslims fast during the day and pray at night, reciting and listening to the Quran throughout the month. “This reminds us of the principles we hold in common; in advancing justice; progress; tolerance and the dignity of all human beings,” he said.
Why Native Are Losing Hope Over Garki Resettlement 29
He lamented that natives have been completely cut off and kept in the dark since the committee set up by the minister finished their work, saying that nothing has been heard about the resettlement issue. “we have been entirely cut off from the exercise while some strange people, who are none indigenes, are busy developing the commercial plots allocated to our communities for social purposes,” he added. Another Garki indigene, Mr Kingsley Madaki, opined that if the FCTA wants regain indigenes
confidence on the sincerity of the administration, then it must hasten the peaceful resettlement of indigenes, stressing that trying to intimidate the indigenes will only cause problems between the administration and indigenes. He said, “if they want us to continue to have confidence in its administration, the issue is simple and short. The government should either resettle the indigenes or adopt other tactics like integration of communities in the FCT. “After all, we are human beings like any other Nigerians living in the FCT. I wonder why the
I urge the government to do the right thing by making honest efforts to resettle indigenes
government is in a hurry to move out Garki indigenes so quickly without tangible arrangement that would affect the lives of the people positively in future. The way, the government is going about it make us think that probably those they want to occupy the communities when the indigenes are relocated are either spirit or angels. “I urge the government to do the right thing by making honest efforts to resettle indigenes of Garki and Akpanjiya communities. For God sake, the upcoming children of these natives are also
associating with other Nigerians, both from Niger Delta, South East and Northern parts of the country. “I believe they also share ideas too, so the quicker the government does the right thing, in respect to the future of the FCT original inhabitants, the better for every Nigerian. Because the way the government is going about displacing the original inhabitants of Abuja, does not speak well for the future of the FCT. We are Nigerians and the FCT is our homeland, we should not be treated as strangers.”
NEWS /FCT watch 31
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Natives Vow Mass Protest Over Bomb Blasts By Igho Oyoyo
The government should do more to end this negative development
Natives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under the auspices of Greater Gbayi Development Initiative (GG-DIN) have vowed to stage a mass protest against the recurrent bomb blasts attacks in the FCT. This was disclosed by the coordinator of the group, Prince Gimba Gbaiza, during a press briefing to condemn governments seeming inaction on the development. Gimba who strongly condemned the Emab bomb blast incident, la-
mented that no one has been brought to book since the security insurgency began in FCT. He said, “Abuja has always been a very quiet and peaceful city where all Nigerians and even foreigners loved to visit, however, since the insurgency started the city has now become a place where people are afraid of their safety. “The federal government should do something serious to end this menace that is gradually eating up the fabric of our once peaceful nation. The indigenous people are suffering because of this issue of
bomb blast in the FCT. Our people are scared of going out; our women are scared of going to the market because they do not where next the bomb will hit.” According to him, “life in the city used to be peaceful; we never knew what bomb blast was, it was alien to us, we only saw it in movies then and described it as movie tricks but now it is happening in our city. It is not a good development and we do not want it to continue. The government should do more to end this negative development.”
President Goodluck Jonathan
Ramadan: Aduda Donates Items For Breakfast To Muslims The senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Sen. Phillip Aduda, has donated over 400 bags of millets, 250 bags of sugar and undisclosed cash to Muslim faithful for daily breaking of fast during the Ramadan period. The items will be shared among the six area councils, 62 wards of the FCT, opinion leaders, graded chiefs and the less privileged muslims. Aduda who made this donation through his chief of staff, Mr. Dabara John, urged Muslim faithful to use the month of Ramadan to devout more time to God in praying for peace and unity to reign in Nigeria, saying that without peace, the nation cannot grow in any area. He said, “we are not happy with the frequent bomb blast in the FCT. This security situation that is plaguing the nation, especially the recent blasts in the FCT is saddening. I am appealing to the insurgence groups that engage in this dastardly act to stop and express their grievances through the right channels of dialogue. By Igho Oyoyo
Monarch Reiterates Commitment To Improve Reading Culture In Bwari
L-R National Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Riders and Owners Association of Nigeria (NATOMORAS) consultant, Mr Chinyere Okiru; the grand patron of the association, Prof. Yusuf Amen Obaje presenting a reflective jacket to the AMAC chairman of the association, Musa Ibrahim while the FCT Chairman of NATOMORAS, Alhaji Usman Buba Gworza and a guest looks on during the flag off ceremony of the biometric registration exercise of its members operating in the FCT and the area councils. PHOTO BY CHIKA OKEKE
Insecurity: FCT NATOMORAS Commences Biometric Capture Exercise Of Members By Chika Okeke
The FCT chapter of the National Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Riders and Owners Association of Nigeria (NATOMORAS) in conjunction with Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has commenced the biometric data capturing of its members operating in the FCT and its area councils. Speaking at the flag off ceremony of the exercise yesterday at Galadimawa Motor Park, the FCT chairman of the association, Alh. Usman Gworza, noted that the advent of insurgency has compounded the problems of commercial motorcycle and tricycle drivers, saying that the exercise would assist security agents in identifying their members and
also help in restricting the activities of operators. Gworza said, “the advent of insurgency has further complicated the challenges currently being faced by our member, as was the case of Apo 19. The notion that Okada and Keke riders are miscreants is not true because we have graduates and responsible husbands and fathers among us.” While appealing to security agencies to assist in enforcing the scheme, he called on the FCT administration to back up the exercise with necessary logistics like the provision of three Hilux trucks to assist the union in monitoring the compliance of its members in view of the FCT transport regulations. “we know that government has the responsibility to en-
sure security of lives and properties, but we must restate here that security is everybody`s business. We are therefore calling on the administration through the transport secretariat to support this laudable programme by helping us with the necessary logistics needed to execute this programme effectively,” he added. Gworza further commended the administration on its efforts geared towards sanitizing the city as well as making sure that members of the association remained in business. In his remarks, the grand patron of NATOMORAS, Prof Yusuf Amen Obaje, expressed optimism that NATOMORAS are part of the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan, saying that they were making enormous
contributions to the economy. According to him, “NATOMORAS is making enormous contributions to our economy and are the pillars of Nigeria future. If we ignore them, we are ignoring the future, so I am pleased with their activities.” In his address, NATOMORAS’s counsel, Barrister Akpan Nkereuwem, maintained that biometric capturing have become the quickest and most pertinent technology for identifying individuals in a unique way. Highlighting benefits of the exercise, he said, “every member can be efficiently tracked and identified; the commuters have access to follow up on conduct of operators and it will also assist security operatives in the FCT in view of the security challenges.”
The Esu of Bwari in Bwari area council, Chief Ibrahim Yaro, has pledged his commitment in encouraging reading culture, especially among youths in the council. Yaro made this commitment when he received a nongovernmental organization, Youth Initiative for Sustainable Development and Creative Change, during a courtesy call on him by the NGO at his palace, expressed worry over the decline of reading culture in the society and promised to do everything in his powers to encourage the youths in his community to imbibe the spirit of reading. He commended the group for their effort in improving the reading standard and promised to support them in sensitizing natives on the importance of reading. By Chika Mefor
Did You Know That Kubwa, the largest satellite town in Bwari area council means ‘Big’ in Swahili language.
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The Churchgate building in the Central Business District is the first to be built with complete glass ware.
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Asokoro, the district dominated by states’ liaison offices and lodges is a Gbagyi name which means ‘people of victory’.
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Bwari Area Council is the smallest council in the FCT In terms of size with a landmass of 914 square kilometres.
32 FCT watch/feature
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
A refuse dump in Gwagwalada Market.
How Gwagwalada Traders Defy Refuse Dump By Chika Mefor
There is a popular adage which says that cleanliness is next to godliness. Even though the saying is old, people rarely adhere to the tenets of the saying most times. Most people feel it is unnecessary to sanitize their immediate environment or take measures to abate nuisances such as refuse dumps around their homes. It becomes even more serious when public places, especially markets, which is predominantly dominated by foodstuff gets overtaken by refuse dumps. So is the story of the Gwagwalada Market, in Gwagwalada Area Council of FCT. In what can be aptly described as a tale of survival, Gwagwalada traders have defied a mountain of refuse to carry out their business activities. The market, located at the center of the town, was reconstructed to contain brick shops which
gave the market a well-organised setting. However, the first impression a visitor would get of the market is that of trading amidst refuse dump, a case that underlines a faulty evacuation system. LEADERSHIP recently visited the market and observed traders absorbed in business transactions with traders busy selling their wares close to the refuse heap while customers were forced to jump over the refuse to buy. In a chat with a resident, Ms Grace Nguduma, she said that both the traders and residents have become used to the landscape, as they just carry on their business activities without recourse to the scenery. Nguduma said, “the traders sweep the front of their shops, I thank God for that, but the surrounding is nothing to write home about. I come here because this is the market that one can get anything. What I do is to just for-
get about the dirt, do my business and walk away.’’ Another resident, Mrs Binta Kwasu said, ‘’I don’t really know why the market is like this. There are beautiful structures here but the surrounding is not encouraging at all. I asked one lady who is a trader the reason for the state of the market and she could not give me any tangible reason for the deplorable state of the market. According to her, ‘the state of the market is unhealthy and there is need for something to be done immediately.” In a chat with LEADERSHIP, another resident, Mikel Okeke, called on the Gwagwalada council administration to wade into the situation and fashion out ways to abate the nuisance to prevent an epidemic outbreak. Okeke said, “the situation have gone beyond the traders right now. So, if the area council can come in and help out, in
terms of evacuating the dump, it will be a plus for the administration. I don’t know how you will come and buy something in a place that is as untidy as this. It is not only an eye sore; it is also a health risk. They only sweep the front of their shops and then convert other spaces which are unoccupied within the market to refuse dumpsites.’’ Reacting to the development, the traders said that the refuse collectors, popularly called ‘mai bolas’ are responsible for the deplorable state of the market. According to the traders to spoke to LEADERSHIP, “we sweep the dirt from out shops and the refuse collectors go round and collect it and then heap it inside the market. Another group of traders, however, said that the newly elected market executives should be held responsible for the garbage heap. A trader, Mrs Izi Uruma said,
‘’we recently had an election and we elected new executives also. I am calling on them to help bring out a solution to salvage the situation. We, the traders make sure our shops are clean; yes, some of the surroundings in the market are dirty. We are hoping it will end soon.’’ Speaking to LEADERSHIP, the head of department, Environment and Sanitation of the council, Tijani Ado, said that the council was aware of the situation in the market, saying they normally organised periodic sanitation exercise in a bid to abate the situation. “we will be going there on intervention. The market people are supposed to get a consultant to help them evacuate the dump from time to time but I don’t think they did that. I believe that is the reason why environmental sanitation seems to have failed in the market,’’ he said.
N150,000 Business Capital Changed My Life- Okoh By Igho Oyoyo
Top 5 Markets in fct ➊ Wuse Market ➋ Garki Model Market ➌ Gudu Market ➍ Bubwa Market ➎ Utako Market
Justice Okoh is a gas seller, whose shop is located at Dutse Baupuma junction in Bwari area council. Okoh said that he started the gas selling by first becoming an apprentice to a master for five years, after which he was settled and paid off to start his business. He said he went into gas selling business when he realized it would be difficult for him to get a job after graduating from school. According to him, “I started the business with about N150,
Okoh
000 and my life has changed for the better for him since then. “I enjoy the business. I make more than N30, 000 monthly, which is aside from the expenses. I have been able to assist my family and do so many important things in my life through this business. Okoh advised youths who are not gainfully employed to explore the options of venturing into the business, saying it is lucrative and stress free. He said, “my advice to Nigerian youths is to think of other ways of being gainfully. They should
stop waiting for white collar jobs that are scarce and consider being self employed; that way they can even be providers of employment too. They should think of starting from somewhere and not wait for government to give them jobs. “Self employment is the best and I advice all graduates to think towards that direction. Even uneducated youth can go into selling of gas; the business can take off with only N100, 00. The most important thing is for Nigerian youth to learn to be self reliant.”
issues 33
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
The Nigerian Equation And The Categorical Imperative Of National Ideology generous nation in cash and kind. Together, we can organise By Yusufu Ameh Obaje a short term and a long term programme of ‘help for the On the other hand, those poor’ in various communities, who are leaders of our collective throughout the federation. We government must remember cannot afford to allow material that leadership is ‘‘a sacred poverty in particular, to dictate responsibility with multiple the behaviour of the generality dimensions. As such, it must be of our people. The time to act in God-centred, people focused, favour of poverty eradication is service oriented, courageously now. demonstrated, accountably G. We call for immediate exemplified, sacrificially establishment of employment illustrated, transparently transit camps all over the evidential, and result manifested federation to boost agricultural (Obaje, Divine Agenda: revolution and to provide solution Rebuilding the Broken Walls of to the problem of unemployed Kogi State, 2007, pg 2.). youths. These camps will assist E. We call for an immediate in reducing the effects of setting apart of a most suitable unemployment on individuals, Day of the year for an annual families and the Nation as a national thanksgiving, in order whole. The camps will provide to appreciate God for the gift of opportunities for skill acquisition; our country, Nigeria. It is most serve as transition centres from Obaje important to devote a day in a unemployment to work life; and intellectual flat tyre. It must be year to thank God for the people assist the Campees to acquire rooted and nurtured in the rich of Nigeria and the overwhelming relevant knowledge on how soil of genuine intellectualism God-given resources, as well as for to be an effective worker in an and on the enlightened or our Democratic institution. This establishment. The campees will informed mind of the people in was our initial proposal many also be trained in all kinds of general. As indicated elsewhere years ago but turned down in skills for self-employment. by this presenter, namely: ‘‘For favour of Democracy Day. Since Each state of the Federation us in Nigeria today, intellectual then, it has not been well with should be encouraged to have, at renaissance has become our Democracy. We cannot give least, five of such camps, with a absolutely necessary and very the glory meant for God for our population of not less than one urgent on account of the fact human institution, no matter thousand persons. In such camps, that the nation has continued to how relevant that institution all the unemployed of the state experience all kinds of poverty, may be. Let us go back and have will be trained and assigned to violence, insecurity, corruption our National Thanksgiving Day a particular agricultural crop and underdevelopment, in and we can as well thank God for to plant, nurture and develop spite of certain noble efforts of the gift of Democracy and other for harvest, using modern leadership at the National and blessings of the Almighty God. technology. at some State levels, in pursuing F. We call for immediate Each camp must be equipped transformation programmes. establishment of massive poverty also with sporting facilities We cannot afford to give up alleviation programme, in order to provide recreational and allow ourselves to be to reduce the impact of scarceness opportunities and to guarantee perpetually enslaved by those on the masses. The level of sound health for the people. who are probably less endowed destitution in the country today Nigerians in the private and by God, in both natural and is most unacceptable and very public sectors as well as our human resources. At the same dangerous for national security foreign partners should be time, we can no longer allow our and peaceful co-existence. encouraged to contribute to the sins, laziness and wickedness The private and public sector development and maintenance to reduce us and the future must rise up at such a time like of such camps. generations of our people to a this to provide material and These camps can also serve nation of poverty and unfulfilled financial support to those in as recruitment centres into dreams, while wasting away dire need of basic necessities of Federal, State and private sectors our God-given resources and life, such as food, shelter and of the employment market. opportunities for true greatness. health care. We must develop a Recruitment officers will visit One of the ways of achieving culture of being our neighbour’s the camps for their recruitment intellectual renaissance is to keeper. Beyond what the federal exercises. As a matter of fact, employ what this writer calls government must do through each camp should also have its Movement Education. This poverty eradication agencies, the own recruitment officers, who is about training people in states and private institutions, will from time to time liaise the intellectual exercise of as well as individuals, who are with recruitment agencies from recollection, provision and blessed with resources, must Federal and State, ministries, transmission of ideas, facts, come up with, real and urgent parastatals and private sectors, knowledge, understanding and solutions that will provide needing their services. wisdom; offering instruction, immediate cushioning effect on H. We call for national empowerment, direction, the current crises of unacceptable intellectual renaissance as a guidance, influence, solution, level of penury. This is the time matter of urgency. Democracy opportunity, sensitization, that those who have can show is one political system that can conscientizaton, exemplification to the less privileged persons in never develop, grow, mature, and experience; for the fulfilment our society that we are a most move or be driven on an of individual and corporate goals in life. Movement Education entails We cannot afford to give up and allow ourassisting people to move from selves to be perpetually enslaved by those who illiteracy to literacy; from are probably less endowed by God, in both ignorance to knowledge; from unemployment to employment; natural and human resources from unproductiveness to from on sunday
productivity; from inaction to action; from passiveness to activity; from negativeness to positveness; from powerlessness to powerfulness; from fakeness to genuineness; from inauthenticness to authenticness; from sin to righteousness; from depravity to morality; from lawlessness to obedience; from crime to law-abidiness; from injustice to justice; from irresponsibility to responsibility; from hatred to love; from disorder to order; from humanism to theocentricism; from violence to peace; from bondage to freedom; from darkness to light; from cowardice to courage; from despair to hope; from insensitivity to sensitivity; from paganism to civilization; from incredibility to credibility; from dishonesty to integrity; from weakness to strength; from failure to success; from downtrodden to upliftment; from decay to transformation; from statusquo to changeness; from selfishness to selflessness; from irrationality to rationality; from wickedness to goodness; from insecurity to security; from gratiotism to patriotism; from theory to practice; from dream to reality and from self-centredness to God-centeredness. (Obaje, The Doctrine of Goodluck, Pgs. 2224) I. We call for national peaceful revolution to effect changes in our moral character and lifestyle. Revolution, properly understood is an imperative for individual and societal transformation. Indeed, there is no genuine fulfilment in life either as an individual, a group or society in general, without the dynamics of change called revolution. After all, what we generally call revolution is nothing more than change. For there is no revolution without change and no change without revolution. It is only in the
mode or nature of change that qualifies each concept for either peaceful or violent one. What is certain and undeniably true is that revolution or change is inevitable, necessary, compulsory, undeniable, mandatory, unstoppable, imperative and must come when it must occur. The type of revolution or change is usually dictated by the prevailing socioeconomic, religio-political and ethnic-cultural circumstances as well as the nature of leadership response to the yearnings, aspirations, needs and dreams of the people. We choose peaceful change now in order to guarantee our collective survival and transformation. The truth of the matter is that only peaceful revolution can stop violent change and there are enough signs and warnings for us to make our choice now and move on as a people of selfless determination and unsurpassable commitment to rebuild one Nigeria of our collective dream. Here is our starting point for a peaceful revolution: Let us begin now to offer Nigeria nothing but the best of our lives; the best of our talents; the best of our efforts; the best of our services; the best of everything that we can do or give to make Nigeria the greatest of all nations, the envy of every nation, the joy of all creation and the land of milk and honey, as ordained by the one and only Almighty God. J. Postscript on three types of human beings. There is always something more to be said on any topic but for now, let us say we have offered enough suggestions in our concluding remarks. Please, permit us to make a final appeal, namely, that you spare a little more time to read our postscript on: ‘Three types of human beings: A little exercise in satirical anthropology. ‘There are three types of human beings in the world, namely Gentiles, Jews and Nigerians. To each one, God gave a master key to unlock all the doors leading to holistic development and transformation in all areas of life. To the Gentiles, God gave a master key called KNOWLEDGE, to be used for opening all doors leading to true greatness in life. Then, God said to the Gentiles: ‘Thou shall use this master key to gain access to success in all areas of life and above all to honour me as your one and only God of all creation. You are also required to love your neighbour as yourself. But if you fail to live accordingly, my wrath will descend on you.’ TO continue TOMORROW
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Tuesday, July 1, 2014
ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS KATSINA STATE CHAPTER
23/06/2014. The Chairman, Katsina State Independent Electoral Commission, Dustin-ma Road, Katsina. Dear Sir,
RE: KATSINA STATE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCILS ELECTIONS Your letters dated 12th and 15th June, 2014, hereby refer. I write for an on behalf of my Political Party the All Progressives Congress, APC, for which I am the Katsina State Chairman. The All Progressives Congress, a registered political party in Nigeria and one of the political parties with considerable membership followership in 4. Katsina State is prepared to participate in all national elections, the Local Government Councils election in Katsina State inclusive. In view of the forthcoming Local Government Councils Election to be conducted by SIEC, and in view of the preparedness of our party to participate in a free, fair, transparent and credible Local Government Councils Elections and in line with the urgency you expressed in your above referred two letters, the All Progressives Congress hereby require from the Katsina State Independent Electoral Commission, SIEC, the following: 1.
2.
3.
requirements of candidates for the elections. This additional requirement extends the requirement of Section 106 of the Electoral Act 2010 as well as Section 28 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, thus ultra vires. The payment of prescribed fees as contained in the Guidelines is against the provision of both the Electoral Act, 2010 and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended.
Our great party, the All Progressive Congress appreciates the urgency you expressed in your earlier letters, including your writing one of them and serving it on a Sunday. We therefore demand your compliance with the above within a reasonable time so that the elections will be conducted in a free, fair, transparent and credible process.
If however for any reason you choose to ignore the Compliance with the legal requirement of 90 days above observations our party is left with the only option notice of elections as contained under Section of approaching a court of law for redress on behalf of our 30. (1) A&B of the Electoral Act 2010, S14 Local teeming party members indigenous to Katsina State. Government Electoral law 2002 as Amended, Section 4c, 6(1), 8(a), (b) & (C), 9(a) (b)& (C) of the Your usual cooperation is highly appreciated please. General Guidelines for Local Government Councils Elections, 2014. MUSTAPHA MUHAMMAD INUWA State Chairman Cause the Voters Register be updated by INEC, the lawful custodians of the register, for the purpose of CC: the forthcoming Local Council Elections in Katsina • Independent National Electoral Commission, State, in line with S9(1) of the Electoral Act, 2010. Katsina Also see page 2 item 4 of the protocol 1 issued by • State Security Services, Katsina Katsina State Independent Electoral Commission, • Commissioner of Police, Katsina Command SIEC for the purpose of the forthcoming Local • RT Honourable Speaker, Katsina State House of Councils Election. Assembly • All other Political Parties, Katsina To as a matter of urgency review the requirement of • National Chairman, All Progressives Congress, 5 or 10 years experience as additional qualification APC, Abuja
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
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36 OPINION
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Procurement Audit: A Panacea For Infrastructural Deficits by emejuwe victor
Nigeria currently grapples with infrastructural deficit despite the huge commitment of funds deployed annually to provide infrastructural facilities across the country. The present administration through the Ministry of National Planning Commission had recently announced a long term plan to address the gaps. The plan known as National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP) is a 30year master plan for accelerating infrastructure development in the country. It focuses on core infrastructure, including energy (power, oil and gas), transport (roads, rail, ports and airports), housing, water and ICT. Other areas of interest include agriculture, mining, social infrastructure, vital registration and security. To fill the infrastructural gap, the sum of $2.9trn would be required over the 30 years period. Nigerians suffer both social and economic loss as a result of the infrastructural gaps. According to the study on road sector performance (2009-2013) carried out by the Center for Social Justice, it cited the CBN report which states that; the annual loss recorded from bad roads in Nigeria is estimated at N80.bn. The motorist plying the roads also suffers vehicle operation cost of N53bn due to bad roads. This loses include travel time and man hour loss, including perishable goods. The infrastructural deficit also affects the housing sector, with about 17.5 million houses needed to be completed with N55.5trn. The scenario cut across provision for modern facilities in agriculture,
Jonathan
health, education etc. We may be pushed to ask, does it mean that the government has not been allocating funds to these sectors over the years? The reason for infrastructural deficit in Nigeria is not in the appropriation of funds but in the utilisation of such funds. It has a lot to do with the performance management of projects. Several billions of Naira has been allocated for projects in works, housing, transportation, agriculture, health etc. but the problem is that, the performance of these projects cannot be measured with the expected outcome. The expected outcomes in any project are measured in terms of cost, durability, quality, timeliness and fitness for purpose. To achieve this, the procurement process must mainstream a performance management benchmarking in the entire circle of the project. The PMB is a control measure that is required in every
From the conception of a project, the expectation of the project must be creatively analysed and measured with a performance management benchmark
project to monitor the performance stages and outcome of a project; this will help to determine if the project is meeting up with the required expectation. The PMB is made up of key performance indicators, process performance reviews, trend analysis and project evaluation. From the conception of a project, the expectation of the project must be creatively analysed and measured with a performance management benchmark. This initiative is lacking in most government contracts; as a result, the turnout of most projects in Nigeria does not meet the desired expectations. On a field monitoring exercise conducted by the civil societies, it is discovered that the major reason for project delays are as a result of project variations. This variation involves the re-scoping of original project design to accommodate “onthe-site” realities. In most cases, before contracts are awarded to contractors, factors such as the ecological and environmental conditions, climate changes, soil textures, availability of raw materials etc., were not carried out; thus when discovered, contracts are reviewed to accommodate those changes; thereby, affecting the cost of the project and the period of delivery. Some of the additional cost that have been incurred from project variations could have been saved and deployed to other infrastructural projects, by so doing, the huge gap in the infrastructural deficit would be minimised. – Victor is of the Centre for Social Justice, Abuja
Rotational Presidency, Not The Solution By edozie okeiyi
According to the renowned American political scientist, politics is who gets what, when and how. This captures the emotions in Nigeria regarding the office of the presidency. The agitation for rotational presidency has become a regular issue in our national political discourse. This is owing to the fact that many people feel marginalised when someone from another region is in power. Therefore there is a strong feeling and view that if the presidency rotates among the zones, it would alleviate the marginalisation of the zones. We have studied this theory carefully and our conclusion is that we do not need rotational presidenc y. Rotational presidency would promote
mediocrity and would reduce the office of the president to a mere regional institution. Rotational presidency at best can be likened to using a problem to solve a problem. We need a system that can enable the best candidate to emerge. For example if it is the turn of Zone A to produce the president, and we have the best candidate from Zone B, we would then have to elect a mediocre president at the expense of a more qualified candidate. Mediocrity should not be promoted or celebrated in any shape or form. A mediocre president cannot deliver at the level required and the whole nation would suffer as a result. However the best solution we have is to decentralise powers to the federating units in the spirit of true federalism. We
have suggested originally the downsising of the federating units to six to reflect the current six geo-political zones. This would form the basis of the federal arrangement where powers would be sufficiently devolved to the units. What we have at the moment is more unitary than federal. The centre is too attractive that the scramble for it is unacceptably high. In the first republic when Nigeria practiced true federalism, the three regions were viable and the centre was less attractive. As a result something unconventional in parliamentary democracy happened. The 1959 general election that ushered in independence in Nigeria was won by the Northern People’s Congress (NPC). By parliamentary standards the
leader of the NPC Sir Ahmadu Bello was supposed to be the prime minister. However Sir Ahmadu Bello preferred to remain in his job in Kaduna as the premier of the Northern Region, and rather sent his deputy Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa to Lagos to serve as the prime Minister. The central government in Lagos was not too attractive to him, coupled with the genuine love he had for his people, so he chose to remain in his position as premier of the Northern region in Kaduna. In fact the regions funded the centre. That was federalism at work until 1966 when the military struck. The military by command and structure operated a unitary style. – Okeiyi is director, Media and Strategy, Leadership Rescue Initiative
Every Tuesday Ahmad B Kaita (MHR) 07081888802 (SMS only) email: babbaahmed@yahoo.com
Nigeria: Democracy Or Militocracy?
I
t is inescapably decipherable why Nigeria may remain trapped in the deep abyss of hopelessness and careless albeit, preventable bloodshed. It’s no longer a theory but a duly certified fact that the current leadership is out of sync with the sad, horrific reality our nation has become. In the last few months Nigeria has literally transformed into something similar to a jungle. It doesn’t require above average intelligence to grasp the impact of President Jonathan’s wholesale mismanagement of Nigeria on our collective aspirations and wellbeing. Nigeria is no longer a nation guided by brotherhood as was the dream of its founding fathers. Who could deny that the Nigeria of today is nowhere near the Nigeria of Chief Awolowo and Sir.Tafawa Balewa. Nothing suggest any similarity between the two. The original Nigeria tried to build its future using its diversity as a springboard while the corrupted Nigeria is struggling to pull a rabbit out of a hat by using same diversity as a weapon of growth and development. Simply put, in just few years Nigeria has degraded from a focused and symbiotically interconnected regions into a hopeless amalgamation of different colonies trapped in an atmosphere of religious hatred and ethnic suspicion. Somehow by our careless attitude to leadership we have taken a deadly step in a conflicting direction with general idea of nation building and improving humanity. Funny enough, even the most learned among us seem to have taken leave of their senses for pecuniary considerations. This is the closest sensible explanation one could give to the ongoing assault on Nigeria by its leadership class. The regime of impunity which look set and determined to send Nigeria to an early grave is unprecedented and globally unacceptable. Nigeria is being raped in the cruelest political manner known to mankind. It is imperative to note that no nation could survive on the terms and principles Nigeria is being operated. Nations are built by collective effort to achieve a desired destiny and, also by a wholesale respectability to established laws within the ambit of normal and acceptable human behaviour. A nation built on selective response to the demands of the law is sure a disaster waiting to happen. How this simple ancient calculation keeps eluding us remain a mystery for history to resolve. While waiting for history to do that, we should at least be kind to the next generation by documenting the mess we created with a touch of sincerity for them to avoid making the same mistakes. For instance, we should be courageous to see and say the ongoing assault on Nigeria as nothing but tendentious illegality by a class of privileged few with a highly diabolical agenda. How else should one explain the applicability of Nigerian laws strictly along class lines? At the moment no Nigerian could hazard a guess as to how many petty thieves and pickpockets are languishing in numerous inhuman jails for a lot less than what could put a decent meal on the table yet, no Nigerian could deny knowledge of numerous multi-billion dollar crimes perpetrated by few untouchables yet, got away with less than a slap on the wrist. The DSP. Alameisegha, the Abachas are all living among us - even throwing more deadlier punches to the system. A common mischievous escape outlet being created by some soulless Nigerians - mostly working for crumbs - leaves one confused as to the inner workings of their minds.
politics today Tuesday, July 1, 2014
REPORTS ANALYSES REVIEWS INTERVIEWS
Fayose
Jonathan
Aregbesola
Ekiti Guber: Revisiting The Aso Rock Celebration Ahead Of Osun Election In this report, GEORGE AGBA examines certain remarks made at the congratulatory visit paid President Goodluck Jonathan by the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He suggests that some revelations made by the party’s national chairman, Adamu Muazu on the internal politics that played in choosing the flag bearer for the just concluded governorship poll in Ekiti was an autopsy of the real cause of failure for the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the election.
However, what the APC may have failed to realise and really need to know is that Fayose’s massive win was a game plan, strategically hatched by the PDP and nurtured to maturity
O
n Sunday, President G o o d l uc k Jonathan and the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) severed the tense political atmosphere and rapt themselves in the euphoria of Saturday’s victory at the Ekiti governorship poll. The president and members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) were said to have popped Champaign in celebration landslide win which left the incumbent Governor, Kayode Fayemi conceding to the governor-elect, Ayo Fayose. But beyond what observers have chosen to interpret as a mere merriment gala on the grave of the opposition is an
expository package which the All Progressive Congress (APC) cannot afford to ignore. National chairman of the PDP, Adamu Muazu, during the congratulatory visit, made bare some secrets that gave his party the edge above the ruling party in Ekiti. Diverse reasons have been ascribed to Fayose’s victory in the governorship poll in Ekiti. Some pundits maintain that the choice was made based on the sterling quality of the PDP candidate whose unswerving fellowship with the masses and people- oriented policies earned him a second chance. For this set of observers, it was the candidate and not the party that won the election in Ekiti. The PDP had an easy ride
to victory on Fayose’s political credentials. Still for some others, Fayemi failed because of the elitist’s structure of his government and his inability to relate with the common people at the grassroots. According to them, results of the election from units to ward level indicated that people at the grassroots mobilised against him and his government. However, what the APC may have failed to realise and really need to know is that Fayose’s massive win was a game plan, strategically hatched by the PDP and nurtured to maturity. In his speech during the congratulatory visit at the president’s residence last week Sunday, Muazu recounted the challenges faced by the PDP in its bid to do things differently from what entailed in the past. It was as simple as the magic of putting a piece of meat in the mouth and the meat disappearing. Aware that APC had since adopted its political vices, PDP used it against the opposition party. Lack of internal democracy, the culture of imposition which saw the leadership of the APC taking the electorate for granted by imposing Governor Fayemi as the party’s candidate,
treating dissenting voices among its fold with disdain and above all, lack of transparency were some of the flops PDP harped on to floor the ruling party in Ekiti in the electoral contest. The PDP national chairman, Mu’azu said; “if the Nigerian factor” were to come in at the time the party was deciding who should bear its flag in the gubernatorial poll, Fayose would never have been the party’s candidate. He recounted how the president gave him the free hand to get a reliable gubernatorial candidate for Ekit. Muazu noted that without the support, encouragement and focus he received from the president who is the party’s leader, the party would not have been celebrating. Mu’azu who expressed optimism that the party would win the August 9 gubernatorial election in Osun State also revealed how some old folks in the party wanted to do it the usual fashion in which political meandering and manoeuvring characterised the process of picking candidates in the party. In the era of former President, ➔ CONTINUES ON PAGE 38 Donald Ojogo, Group Politics Editor
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38 POLITICS TODAY
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Ekiti Guber: Revisiting The Aso Rock Celebration Ahead Of Osun ➔ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37
The PDP appears bent on ensuring that states which were controlled by PDP before the APC took over in the South West were won back in subsequent elections
Olusegun Obasanjo, it only required the disapproval of his personal person in the party for the national chairman to kick a candidate out even if he is widely adjudged to be the best person to secure victory for the party in a state. The office of national chairman was just nominal and not existing because who occupied it was in charge. Past national chairmen like Chief Audu Ogbeh would attest to this. But Muazu was all praises for Jonathan who gave him the free hand to do things transparently in the party as manifested in the choice of Fayose. He said, “many people do not tolerate me because I don’t know how to say any other thing but the truth. You (the President) have been patient with me especially on the PDP palaver. You gave me the freedom to get a very reliable candidate. I want to thank you. “Fayose, ordinarily, if the Nigerian factor comes in, will never have been our candidate, but you and I know that even after he emerged, some sorts of groups that came to you to report me that I’ve made the wrong choice. “More often, when they come to the Villa, Mr. President will insist that I must be there. I’ve seen the same people, I’ve appealed to them. Mr. President will still insist for me to hear and listen. At the end of the day, the truth has prevailed with the support of Mr. President. “Without getting our first 11 with the President’s support and encouragement, we would not have been celebrating today. So, I want to thank you for your patience, your leadership, your focus, your support in every form and shape and at all times”. Exuding confidence that what happened in Ekiti will happen in other APC states, Muazu said, ““We are here to rejoice and congratulate our leader for the good and purposeful leadership he has given not only the country but his party, the vehicle he has used to be where he is, a very reliable vehicles that has been used by so many people, even among those who have decided to be disgruntled elements. “I assure you that this vehicle the PDP has remained the only constant factor in the new Nigerian political dispensation that has proven over time to maintain the same name, same coloration, motor, slogan and emblem and constant. “We all know that both Osun and Ekiti States are PDP states.
Mu’azu
Omisore
Oyegun
Fayemi
We have been robbed of them through the process we all know. We have accepted it as law-abiding people and we have been patient and prayerful. God the Almighty has returned Ekiti to us. By His special grace, “He will also return Osun and many more states. In God we trust and in Him I and all those who believe in God, God will never fail us. He will always lead us to great success”. When President Jonathan spoke, he made it clear that PDP was metamorphosing from its former corrupt state to a party wary of its political fortunes. He said, “The interaction is unique. It shows that the game changer will change so many things. We thank God for today for making it possible. What gives me joy is that the election was acceptable as free and fair. “I heard that there will be crisis in Ekiti. Results announced, nobody killed, no house burnt. Super Eagles made Nigerians to smile. At this time, I congratulate Nigerians. Though we have a top soccer team to meet, we will go to the next round. “We have shown clearly that Ekiti is a PDP state. We will not
disappoint Nigerians. We will do more in other states. I commend INEC and security services for the wonderful work they have done. “This present administration stands for free and fair election in Nigeria. I appreciate Nigerians for their determination and patriotism for the country. PDP is not chameleon. We don’t change. We will continue to do our best for the country. Yes we have challenges but we will overcome. Railway, power should not be taken for granted. “We must feed ourselves. Our education system is still weak, our health system is not too good. Nigerians still travel out of the country for medical attention more than any other country. We must change that”, Jonathan added. What Muazu did was an attempt on a post mortem of the remote cause of the fall of APC in Ekiti. In contrast to what close watchers of the party’s political radar have insisted was it albatross in the governorship poll, Muazu gave an insight into how the PDP purged itself of political vices that the APC had since filled adulterated with. Pundits say in the build
up to the election, APC was a house divided against itself. By refusing to hold primaries, the party closed the door against other candidates. Beside the celebration, the leadership of the PDP was also said to have discussed strategy to adopt in winning the next governorship election in Osun State relying on the Ekiti victory and the current internal crisis within the APC. The PDP appears bent on ensuring that states which were controlled by PDP before the APC took over in the South West were won back in subsequent elections. The strategy, according to report, includes harmonizing factions in Ogun, Osun and Oyo States which were PDP states and ensuring that only credible and accepted candidates are fielded for elections. As the governorship election in Osun approaches, there is no doubt that the APC may be correcting its missteps by now. Should what happened in Ekiti repeat itself in Osun, then the APC would have ended up ruining its political fortune before the major political contest begins in 2015.
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reps diary Tuesday, July 1, 2014
BDCs: As Reps Debate CBN’s Directive Federal lawmakers have summoned Nigeria’s Central Bank governor, Godwin Emefiele over the apex bank’s directive to Bureau De Change (BDC) operators to raise their operating capital base to N35 million from N10 million. EDEGBE ODEMWINGIE reports the controversial summon alongside other key developments in the House of Representatives last week.
Tambuwal
T
he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on June 22 released fresh guidelines for Bureau De Change (BDC) operators and raised the operating capital base to N35 million from N10 million to check persistent depletion in the country’s external reserves and the financing of unauthorised transactions. The new guidelines, CBN stated would also help the `dollarisation’ of the Nigerian economy. It added that the N35 million must be deposited in a non-interest yielding account in the CBN subject to a grant of approval-in-principle. In addition to the money, it said
However, speaking in favour of the CBN directive, Hon. Victor Nwokolo (Delta/PDP) likened the move to the 2005 bank recapitalization that all BDCs applying for the new license would be expected to make an application fee of N100,000; a licensing fee of N1 million naira and an annual renewal fee of N250,000. It also stated that unlike in the past, multiple ownership of the BDC would not be permitted,
Repertoire In Search Of An Asset Forfeiture Bill Anyone who has worked in the Criminal Justice System knows that what criminals fear most is not
adding that anyone found having more than one BDC would be severely punished. The CBN announced July 15 as deadline for the new capital. Policy somersault? Federal lawmakers last Thursday tagged the CBN directive a “policy somersault” and called for a “systematic review”. The House of Representatives directed the CBN to immediately suspend the directive to Bureau De Change (BDC) operators. Also, the CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele was summoned to face the Jones Onyeriri-led House Committee on Banking and Currency where he is expected to give “full briefing” on the directive. These were fallouts of a motion sponsored by Hon. Ibrahim ShehuGusau (Zamfara/PDP) on the CBN directive to BDC operators. In lead debates, Shehu-Gusau stated: “Bureau De Change has provided millions of Nigerians job opportunities. I am worried that the new rule will send many BDC operators out of business. “The increments are outrageous against the backdrop that the CBN will also reduce the amount of dollars being issued to BDCs from $50,000 to $15,000 per week” In another, Hon. Asita Honourable (Rivers/APC) tagged the CBN directive “super elitist and racist in nature”. However, speaking in favour of the CBN directive, Hon. Victor Nwokolo (Delta/PDP) likened the move to the 2005 bank recapitalization. He said increasing the operating capital base of BDCs will strengthen foreign exchange transactions. Security Search: Tambuwal’s Story House Speaker, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal on Wednesday declared that despite protocol and privileges his office enjoys, he is not above the law. He was addressing House members over last Monday’s incident where security operatives stopped his motorcade and searched his official car. The widely reported incident occurred at the entrance to Hotel 17, Kaduna, venue of an International Conference on Security and Development Challenges of Pastoralism in West and Central Africa organised by the office of the National Security
Adviser. Tambuwal was due to deliver a speech. The Speaker stated that he was not averse to being subjected to scrutiny or screening by “constituted authorities”, but expected to enjoy some protocol and privilege as the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria. The Speaker is Number Four in protocol hierarchy in the Federation, after the President, Vice-President, and the Senate President. Tambuwal’s reaction reads in full: “I want to state that I am not above the law. As recently as last week Wednesday when I was travelling to Paris, I subjected myself to screening by staff of the Air France here at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. “My luggage was requested to be searched, and I obliged them; I gave them my luggage. My physical person was frisked, and I allowed that happen without any resistance. That is to show everyone that I am not averse to being subjected to scrutiny or screening by constituted authorities. “The difference between that and what happened in Kaduna is the fact that I was expected to enjoy some protocol and privilege as the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria, more so, from the authorities established by law. “Several times that I go out of this country, I have been extended courtesies and privileges whereby even my own luggage was not subjected to that because I am the Speaker of the House. “No one out there should have any impression that any of us here in the House of Representatives or in the National Assembly is above the law; that is not the message we are sending. “What we are talking about is the institution of the legislature and not the individuals that are constituted in the Nigerian legislature. Thank you all for your support, and I thank every Nigerian for their concern on what transpired in Kaduna on Monday.” Meanwhile, the House detailed its joint Committees on Defence, Army, Police, Interior, Public Safety and National Security to probe the development. The committees were directed to submit a report in one week.
An Unending Presidential Handshake necessarily being sent to jail, but having to lose the proceeds of their criminal activities - their mansions; fleets of cars and monies in their
various bank accounts Those are the words of Adebayo Kareem, a Financial Crime Prosecutor with the European Union.
FACES of the RED CHAMBER
➔ Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, berates the involvement of the country’s military in politics by political leadership. “When the military becomes the preferred agency for clamping down on the media, for the grounding of aircraft and closure of airports; and for forcibly restricting the freedom of citizens, including elected officials, through arrests, detention and false imprisonment then there is need for us to return to the drawing board of democratic governance.”
➔ House deputy minority leader, Hon. Suleiman Kawu Sumaila’s condemnation of the decision of the Imo state government to register all northerners living in the state. “It is on record that many people from the south east region have been arrested in the acts of armed robberies and kidnappings in the north and other parts of the country but there was never a time when any of the northern state government compelled innocent Igbos to register in their states”
40
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
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news 41
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Impeachment: Allegations Against Me Pure Blackmail – Ngillari By MOHAMMED ISMAIL, Yola
Adamawa State deputy governor Bala James Ngillari yesterday dismissed allegations of gross misconduct levelled against him by some members of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, describing the allegations as laughable. Ngillari, who stated this during a press conference shortly after his return from a medical trip abroad, exonerated himself and cautioned the public to be wary of the terminologies being adopted by his traducers in order to blackmail him. According to him, the use of the word ‘diversion’ was diversionary as the allegation was bereft of details and not time-spe-
cific. He added that by the very nature of the allegations levelled against him, the onus of proof should come from his accusers but because of his desire to clear his name, he found it necessary to tell the world of his innocence since silence could be misconstrued for acceptance of guilt. Ngillari added that he was ready to defend his integrity for the sake of posterity, particularly as the allegations against him were vague and lacking detailed particulars which should have been incorporated in such a weighty allegation. According to him, politics was the underlying motive behind the image smear campaign.
Muslims Not Behind Violence In Nigeria – Oloyede By Halima Tiffi, , Abuja
The secretary-general, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, (NSCIA), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, has kicked against the notion that all Muslims are terrorists. Oloyede, who stated this while delivering a keynote address at the 9th Ramadan Lecture of Muslim Media Professionals of Nigeria (MMPN) in Abuja, calling on the federal government to stand strongly against the security challenges in the country. According to him, “Muslims are not responsible for the violence in the country. Muslims are for peace. If there is any problem, it is a failure of the system.”
The Muslim cleric who gave a keynote address on “Peace and Leadership: The Missing Link” added that there cannot be peace without justice. “Our appeal is that the federal government should be just to all segments of the society,” he said. Speaking on the theme of the lecture, the guest speaker, Prof. Musa Abdur-Raheem reiterated that those perpetrating violence do not represent Islamic values. “Boko Haram is not representing Islam; Muslims are for peace and most of the victims of Boko Haram attacks are Muslims,” he added. He called on leaders in the country to live up to expectation by urgently addressing the nation’s security challenges.
Doctors Begin Nationwide Strike Tomorrow As Ultimatum Expires By Winifred Ogbebo, Abuja
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has directed its members across the country to proceed on an indefinite strike starting from tomorrow morning following the expiration of the two-week ultimatum to the federal government. Addressing newsmen yesterday in Abuja, NMA president, Dr Kayode Obembe, said the association had no other alternative following the failure of the federal government to meet its 24-point demand. The NMA sent 24 demands to the government which include a N100,000 monthly haz-
ard allowance for doctors, the payment of clinical duty allowance for honorary consultants and the appointment of deputy chairman, Medical Advisory Committee in Teaching Hospitals and Federal Medical Centres and discontinuation of recognition of non-medical doctors as directors and consultants. Obembe observed that the failure of government to address the demands had left the NMA with no other option than “to call all its members to down their tools starting from 12.01am today in order to press home their demands.”
ramadan timing
Day 4
Towns
Magrib
Alfijr
Abuja
6.58
4.55
Aba
6.55
4.58
Abakaliki
6.52
4.57
Abeokuta
7.09
5.16
Akure
7.02
5.06
Ankpa
6.56
5.00
Argungu
7.11
5.04
Auchi
7.01
5.04
Awka
7.02
4.59
Azare
6.49
4.42
Bama
6.38
4.28
Bauchi
6.50
4.47
Benin
7.04
5.05
Bichi
6.57
4.50
Bida
7.04
5.00
Birnin Gwari
7.03
4.58
B/Kebbi Gwandu
7.12
5.04
Biu
6.41
4.35
Calabar
6.49
4.55
Damaturu
6.41
4.34
Daura/Kazaure
6.59
4.35
Dutse
6.51
4.47
Enugu
6.53
4.57
Funtua/Malumfashi
7.01
4.53
Gembu
6.46
4.41
Gombe
6.44
4.39
Gusau
7.00
4.56
Gwadabawa
7.11
4.57
Hadejia
6.49
4.42
Ibadan
7.13
5.09
Ife
7.08
5.06
Ilesha Baruba
7.10
5.05
Ilorin
7.06
5.07
Jalingo
6.41
4.39
Jere/Suleija
6.58
4.54
Jos
6.55
4.48
Kabba
7.03
5.00
Kafanchan
6.57
4.51
Keffi/Nasarawa
6.57
4.51
Kaiama
7.12
5.08
Kafin Maiyaki
6.57
4.48
Kaduna
6.56
4.54
Kano
6.52
4.49
Katsina
7.00
4.51
Kontagora
7.06
5.03
Lafia
6.52
4.51
Lagos
7.11
5.12
Lokoja
6.56
5.03
Maiduguri
6.34
4.32
Makurdi
6.53
4.50
Minna
7.00
5.01
Missau
6.46
4.41
Monguno
6.37
4.24
Mubi
6.36
4.31
Nguru
6.46
4.39
Ningi
6.50
4.46
Okene
7.06
5.01
Ogbomosho
7.11
5.09
Onitsha
6.59
5.04
Oyo
7.13
5.11
Port Harcourt
6.58
5.08
Potiskum
6.44
4.37
Saki
7.05
5.11
Shagamu
7.06
5.17
Sokoto
7.06
5.02
Umuahia
6.57
4.56
Warri
6.56
5.12
Wukari
5.44
4.51
Wurno
7.10
4.57
Yenagoa
6.38
4.34
Yola
6.35
4.34
Zaria
6.57
4.55
Cotonnou-Benin
7.15
5.14
Ndjamena-Chad
6.26
4.21
Niamey-Niger
7.21
5.13
Zinder – Niger
6.58
4.40
Younde-Cameroun
6.39
4.40
Garoua – Cameroun
6.33
4.33
(Source: Timing Committee, Islamic Research and Timing Organisation Kaduna)
Recommended DU’A for Day 04 Pray an 8 Raka’h Nafilah, in every Raka’ah after the recitation of Surah Al a, recite Surah Al-Qadr 20 times, then say the following DU’A: ALLAAHUMMA QAWWINEE FEEHI A’LAA IQAAAMATI AMRIKA WA AD’IQNEE FEEHI H’ALAAWATA ZIKRIKA WA AWZIA’-NEE FEEHI LI-ADAAA-I SHUKRIKA BI KARAMIKA WAH’-FAZ’NEE FEEHI BI-HIFZ’IKA WA SITRIKA YAA ABS’ARAN NAAZ’IREEN. Meaning: O Allah, on this day, strengthen me in carrying out Your commands, let me taste the sweetness of Your remembrance, grant me, through Your graciousness, that I give thanks to You. Protect me, with Your protection and cover, O the most discerning of those who see. Compiled by Al-Amin Ciroma
Ramadan Q and A
with Muhammad Usman musman@kindasa.com
What are virtues of Umrah performed in Ramadan? Abu Qunaisa Saleh, Minna A: Ibn ‘Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with him narrated, “When the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allah exalt his mention )returned after performing Hajj (major pilgrimage), he asked Umm Sinaan Al-Ansaariyyah,‘Why did you not perform Hajj?’ She replied, ‘The father of soand-so [i.e., her husband] had two camels and he went on pilgrimage on one of them, and the second is used for the irrigation of our land.’ The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allah exalt his mention )said [to her]:‘An ‘Umrah (minor pilgrimage) in Ramadan is akin to Hajj with me [in terms of reward].’” [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim] According to another narration, he told her: “When Ramadan comes, do ‘Umrah as [the reward for] it then is equivalent to Hajj.” Likewise, it was reported by Umm Ma‘qil may Allaah be pleased with herthat the Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), said to her, “Perform ‘Umrah in Ramadan, as it is equal to Hajj.”[Abu Daawood] Similar Hadeeths were also narrated on the authority of Jaabir, Anas, Abu Hurayrah and Wahb ibn Khanbash may Allaah be pleased with themall. Ibn Battaal may Allaah have mercy upon himcommented on the aforementioned Hadeeths, saying: The sentence that ‘Umrah “then is equivalent to Hajj”, proves that the Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), was actually encouraging her to perform a voluntary Hajj, as the whole Ummah (Muslim nation) has unanimously agreed that the ‘Umrah can never be a substitute for the obligatory Hajj. Moreover, what he, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), meant is that they are like each other in reward, but virtues cannot truly be perceived through analogy; and Allaah The Almighty bestows His Bounty upon whom He Wills. Benefits and rulings [derived from these Hadeeths]: 1- The mercy and bounty bestowed by Allaah The Almighty upon His slaves is great, as He granted them huge rewards in return for small good deeds; so, we praise Him abundantly for that. 2- The Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), was keen on ensuring the welfare of his Ummah and would ask after those under his rule. Just as he was the sincerest confidant to all people, any slave whom Allaah The Almighty puts in charge of subjects should treat them leniently, advise them, check on their conditions and serve their worldly and religious benefits. 3- ‘Umrah done during the month of Ramadan cannot be a substitute for the obligatory Hajj, i.e., they are equal in reward, but the former does not replace the latter as a fulfillment of the obligation that is unanimously agreed upon by the scholars. 4- The reward of good deeds increases in proportion to the virtue of the time they are performed in, as well as one’s heartfelt devotion and dedication. 5- This Hadeeth is similar to the narration that says, “The Chapter Al-Ikhlaas (Purification) equals one third of the Quran”; it indicates that it is equivalent in terms of the reward of recitation, not that reciting it could, or should, substitute actually reciting [that much or] the whole of the Quran. 6- The ‘Umrah here is considered equal to the Hajj in reward, when it is performed during the month of Ramadan, which is a great season for good deeds. Hence, whoever performs it then, enjoys the virtue of the place [i.e., the Sacred Mosque in Makkah] and time [i.e., Ramadan]; this is also the case with one who performs Hajj, as he is also in the same holy place and in a blessed time [i.e., months of Hajj]. In addition, doing ‘Umrah in the month of Ramadan is more difficult. That is because one may be fasting while performing it or break his fast due to the traveling involved, and then have to make up for it. This is not the case when one performs ‘Umrah during any other month. The Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), said to ‘Aa‘ishah may Allaah be pleased with heronce, when he ordered her to perform ‘Umrah, “It [i.e., its reward] is according to your effort”, or, as per another narration, “according to your expenditure.”[Muslim]
42 News north-central
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Those Toying With Civil Servants Will Have Themselves To Blame – NULGE President BY By SAM EGWU, Lokoja
Governors and principal officers in any administration in Nigeria are waiting for failure at a given crucial time, when toying with civil servants, the President of National Union of Local Government Employee, NULGE, Comrade Tom Abutu, dropped this hint in an exclusive interview. ‘’Some government agents have blocked their master from seeing the realities on ground. They always give impression to the master that things were okay, and this impression is always dangerous’’, he said. Comrade Abutu also said teachers’ plight was more pathetic since salaries were not forthcoming. He, however, noted that Governor Idris Wada has made concerted efforts to salvage the situation teachers are thrown into in the state, but the efforts have not been successful. The NULGE President stressed that “if the people decides to keep mute in the face of the present situation, it will be difficult for us to
short news Wada Warns Encroachers Over Schools’ Landed Property Kogi State governor, Idris Wada, has warned residents near education centres not to encroach on the land belonging to tertiary institutions across the state, saying that government would demolish any structure built on the encroached land without paying compensation. Capt Idris Wada made this statement on Saturday at Ankpa during the convocation of 26th, 27th, 28th and 29th combined ceremony at the convocation square of the college of education, Ankpa on Ankpa-Olamaboro road Kogi State. By Sam Egwu, Lokoja
come out of it when the chips are down, pointing out that as the leader of local government workers in the state, it is expedient to open up on the prevailing ugly situation. Comrade Abutu said it was necessary to be decisive on issues which border on salary of teachers whose plight has become pathetic, noting that with all the efforts of the governor, there seems to be no head way to providing the salary. He expressed fears that the reports from other states may affect us here where it was reported that a considerable number of teachers died as a result of none payment of salary, pointing out lessons from Ekiti gubernatorial election where the governor thought it was well, but was swept off from the seat by civil servants of the state. Tom averred that the governor of the state should look beyond the advisers and assistants and listen to the impression of the people outside, stating that no matter the genuine intention of the state, nothing works, if the people are ignored.
Ramadan: Speaker Urges Muslims To Pray For Nigeria’s Stability The Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon Razak Atunwa, has urged Nigerians to use the Ramadan period to pray for peace and stability of the country. Atunwa in a Ramadan message also urged Muslims to pray for the sustenance of the nation’s democracy. Atunwa said Islam epitomises peace, tolerance and unity; enjoining Muslims to use the holy month to supplicate to Allah for the restoration of peace and stability in Nigeria. He noted that the current ethno-religious upheavals bedeviling the country called for sober reflection and concerted effort by all to salvage the nation from the verge of disintegration. The Speaker who called for purposeful leadership at all tiers of government, advised Nigerians to always respect the constituted authority in the bid to tackle the pyramids of problems confronting the nation. He praised the people of Kwara for leaving together in harmony and assured that the State House of Assembly would continue to provide the platform for ethno-religious harmony in the state. By Abdullahi Olesin, Ilorin
short news Nasarawa 2015: PDP Chair Cautioned Against Imposition of Candidates Prelude to the 2015 general elections, the national chairman of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Alh. Ahmed Muazu, has been cautioned against imposition of candidates. The zonal organising secretary of the PDP, Nasarawa south senatorial district of Nasarawa State, Alh. Sidi Ndagi, gave the advice yesterday at a stakeholders parley in Abuja. “We are in crucial period that requires a lot of caution so as to avoid cracks in the party. We must be very careful so as not to be seen as endorsing any candidate”, Ndagi told newsmen. Abu Nmodu, Minna
L-R: Director General, National Broadcasting Commission, Mr Emeka Mba, Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang, Minister of Information, Mr Labaran Maku and Director, NTA-Star TV Network, Mr Maxwell Loko, at the launch of Jos City Digital TV Switch-over in Jos, Yesterday. PHOTO BY NAN.
No Cure For HIV Infection Yet – Don By ABDULLAHI OLESIN, Ilorin
There is neither a cure for an established HIV infection nor a vaccine to prevent people from acquiring the infection, a professor of Medicine, Salami Alakija Kazeem, has said. According to him, the reality on ground is that HIV/AIDS is no longer a killer disease but a chronic manageable one with the patient living a near normal life span, provided there is easy access to a good quality of care that include availability of ARVs, drugs and palliative care and patients living a healthy life style devoid of drug use and serious co-morbidities. Kazeem stated this while presenting the 149th inaugural lec-
ture of the University of Ilorin with the theme: “Realities of Living With HIV Infection”. Describing the rising incidence of new HIV infection in the country as worrisome, the don said that “new infections are recorded largely amongst married sexual partners who are not ready to let go of each other even long after marriages to different spouses. “Here the use of condom is low and the risk of transmission is high. Some high risk groups of the society also contribute significantly to the rising rate of new infection. They are hotel and road side based FSWs. They and their clients together with their client partners contributed about 40 per cent of the new
infections in 2010. MSM and IDUs and their partners also contributed 10 per cent and 9 per cent of annual new infections during the same year. He, however, noted that “Nigeria has done well on the control of HIV infection; she has arrested and reversed the national seroprevalence rate from 5.8 per cent to 3.4 per cent. “However, the country need to consolidate on this gain, reverse the rising rate of new HIV infection and ensure that PLHIV continue to live well and live long. To achieve these, the country has to look inward and take full ownership of HIV care because aids from all the donor agencies will cease to flow by June 2015.
Israel Partner Kogi On Solid Minerals By millie ibe, Abuja
The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Uriel Palti, has indicated Israel’s willingness to collaborate with Kogi State government in order to harness the vast solid mineral deposits as well as the tourism potential of the state. Kogi is said to harbour 29 out of the 34 mineral deposits in the country. Mr Palti, who was on an official visit to the state, gave this
assurance during a reception by the State Governor, Captain Idris Wada, in company of the deputy governor, Mr Yomi Awoniyi and other top officials of the state at the Government House, Lokoja, recently. He said having lived in Nigeria for the past 15 months as ambassador, he fell in love with the country and was inclined to learn more about its rich cultural, economic, tourism opportu-
nities, which abound outside the Federal Capital Territory. He said he was delighted to accept the invitation of the governor to visit Kogi state. The ambassador then formally invited the governor to visit Israel with a view to meeting and discussing possible areas of investment with potential investors at the African Israeli Chamber of Commerce and Israeli Export Institute.
World Bank Project Trains Directors For IPSAS Compliant In 2015 By Abu Nmodu, Minna
The Public Sector Governance reform and development Project, a World Bank assisted programme, has commence training of top management staff of the state civil service on the domesticated state administrative classification code and budgeting chart of accounts. The participants of the training of the World Bank projects were Directors of Planning, Directors of Administration and Chief Accountants from selected Ministries, Departments and Agencies in Ni-
ger State to make the State International Public Accounting Standards (IPSAS) compliant in 2015 . The Project Coordinator for the World Bank Project for the state, Mallam Suraj Sa’id, at the training over the weekend, said the training was aimed towards ensuring comprehension and implementation of the contents of the public financial management as it relates to IPSAS. He said that the mandate of the project was to improve transparency, accountability and quality in public finance and human resourc-
es management system including procurement reforms with the view to strengthen governance in the state. “By way of reference, the project has organised series of training for IPSAS implementation committee comprising representative of different MDAs in the state as well as training on domestication of the National Chart of Accounts’’, he said. These, according to him, were done with the commitment and quest for making the state 2015 budget IPSAS compliant.
news north-East, north-west 43
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Yero Lauds NCPC’s Achievements
Nigeria Is Faced With Myriad Of Problems – Sultan By Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto
The Sultan of Sokoto and president general, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Mohammad Sa’ad Abubakar III yesterday lamented that the nation is being confronted with lots of problems, just as he solicited prayers from all for God’s intervention. The Sultan who maintained that Nigeria needs prayers now
more than ever before, also advised the leaders and the people to have the fear of God in them and do the right thing at all times. Advising that leaders in the country should have absolute fear of God in their dealings, the Sultan warned that everyone will surely give account on the day of reckoning. Speaking at his palace when the new Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu paid him
a courtesy call, the Sultan advised that leaders should continue to be fair to everyone. “Nigerians need the support of their leaders now more than ever before, as they are facing a myriad of problems. And as for we the leaders, we should know that we will be answerable to God if we fail to provide the needed credible leadership. Therefore, we will continue to live and lead in accordance with Islamic injunctions,” he
said. The Sultan further urged the new emir to emulate the virtues of his late father whom he described as fearless, patriotic, courageous and very pious in all his dealings. He stated that the Sokoto Caliphate holds the principles of justice, equity and social services provision in high esteem, adding that the Sultanate Council has a compendium of some of it’s founders’ works.
Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Abubakar Shehu Abubakar (left), with the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III during his visit to Sokoto, yesterday. PHOTO BY NAN.
short news PDM Opts Out Of Katsina LG Polls Opppsition Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) in Katsina State has opted out of the forthcoming council polls in the state. Addressing newsmen yesterday, PDM leader in Katsina State, Mamman Abubakar Danmusa said the party resolved to boycott the polls because it was not comfortable with the guidelines issued by Katsina State Independent Electoral Commission (KTSIEC). Danmusa said the party and its candidates could not afford the nomination fees fixed by KTSIEC. By Muazu Elazeh, Katsina
Emir Sanusi’s Mother Donates Foodstuffs To Fasting Muslims By Abubakar Salihi, v
The mother of the emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, has donated food items to Muslim communities around her to alleviate their sufferings. Hajiya Saudatu (Mama), who has been living at Yakasai quarters, metropolitan Kano for decades has been known to be peaceful, being a devoted Muslim who views her community as part of her family. The mother of Emir Sanusi II (MaiBabban-Daki) has since the start of the month of Ramadan been donating food items such as rice, sugar, milk
and millet to hundreds of households. A beneficiary and mother of eight, Hajiya Binta Bello described Emir Sanusi’s mother as benevolent and Godfearing. She prayed for Allah SWT to reward her abundantly for what she has been doing for her neighbours. Also, Bashir Habibu Jadda who is a young man and neighbour to Hajiya Mama described her assistance to neighbours as a great service to humanity. Bashir Jadda said Hajiya Mama is a mother worthy of emulation in various aspects of life.
Jadda noted that her donation to the fasting Muslims in and around her immediate community will go a long way in helping them and making the fasting easier for them. Some young men who were discussing the magnanimity of Emir Sanusi’s mother in her neighbourhood also told our correspondent that her kindness seems to fetch him more admirers and prayers for his long life and prosperity. A resident of the area, Shehu Inuwa alias Kunne, described the emir’s mother as a devoted Muslim who has been the envy of all mothers.
First Hausa Language Satellite TV ‘AREWA 24’ Launches In Kano By Abubakar Salihi, Kano
A group, Equal Access to Knowledge and Development Initiative, has launched AREWA 24, the first Hausa Language free to air satellite television channel locally produced by and for northern Nigerians. AREWA 24 was officially launched yesterday and fully dedicated to the people, cultures and values of northern Nigeria and the Hausa speaking sub-region. A press release made available to newsmen revealed that the new channel was produced by a team of over 50 Nigerian media professionals and through partnerships with Dabo TV and Amara
Studios and is broadcast free to air on the Nilesat satellite platform (Nilesat 102, 12226 MHz). “This general entertainment channel celebrates the cultures, lifestyle, music and themes of northern Nigeria”, the statement said. It stated that AREWA 24 and Equal Access Nigeria are excited about the promise of the channel to deliver entertaining and inspiring programming for youths, women and men across the region. “With a slate of original and premier programming, AREWA 24’s goal is to create an authentic Hausa Language television platform that enriches the lives of northern Nigerian viewers and proj-
ect the beauty, promise and potential of northern Nigeria across Africa, the Middle East and worldwide”, the statement said. The head of production, Dr Sani Muazu explained “AREWA 24 is our chance to sing our song, so the whole world can see how gifted Arewa people are and appreciate the beauty and values in our diverse cultures”. He said to have led a team of northern Nigerian television professionals who are gearing to raise the standard of television in this country and make all people of the region proud in having a channel that truly portrays them for who they are.
Kaduna State governor Mukhtar Yero has commended the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) for its remarkable achievements over the years. He gave the commendation in Kaduna when the executive secretary of the NCPC, Mr John Kennedy Opara, paid him a courtesy call at the Government House. Governor Yero commended Opara for his visionary leadership, which has taken Christian pilgrimage in Nigeria to greater heights. He stressed the need for adherents of the two major religions in Nigeria, Christianity and Islam to work together as one through mutual respect and peaceful co-existence. Governor Yero urged Christian leaders to always remind pilgrims that pilgrimage is a spiritual journey aimed at transforming the individuals and, in effect, the society. He promised to support NCPC through the Kaduna State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board (CPWB) to ensure the success of the 2014 pilgrimage exercise. Earlier, the executive secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), Mr John Kennedy Opara said his visit to Kaduna State was for solidarity and to sensitise Christians in the state on the 2014 pilgrimage. By Ekele Peter Agbo
Yero Threatens To Revoke NonPerforming Contracts Kaduna State governor Mukhtar Ramalan Yero has threatened to revoke nonperforming contracts to ensure completion of all ongoing projects in the state. Speaking yesterday while inspecting projects in Soba local government area of the state, the governor said the present administration will soon commence a review of all ongoing projects and will take action against contractors that have dumped project sites. He said, “The essence of the review is to ensure the completion of projects earmarked in the 2014 budget before the end of December.” During the inspection, Yero assessed the progress of work at the 28.8km Soba-Ikara road, and tasked the contractor to commence the second phase of work which is laying of asphalt and completion of drainage. “I can see that the first coat is completed; second coat which is laying of asphalt should begin immediately. As a matter of urgency, I want this road completed and I want the 1.6km Soba township section to also be completed,” he said. By Midat Joseph, Kaduna
44 news Lagos $8.4m Fraud: EFCC Amends Charge by OLUGBENGA SOYELE, Lagos Against Ajudua
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Cynthia Osokogu: Court Admits Video Evidence
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday told a Lagos High Court in Ikeja trying alleged fraud kingpin, Fred Ajudua, over a $8.4m fraud that it has amended the charge against the defendant. However, the new charge was not read because the matter could not proceed due to the absent of Ajudua counsel, Olalekan Ojo. The EFCC had in the charge it now seeks to amend alleged that Ajudua, along with others still at large, defrauded Gen. Ishaya Bamaiyi of $8.387million between November 2004 and June 2005 while he was detained at the Kirikiri Maximum Prisons, Lagos.
Justice Olabisi Akinlade of the Lagos High Court in Igbosere yesterday admitted, as evidence, a video recording containing the alleged confessional statements of the alleged killers of Facebook lover, Cynthia Osokogu. The late Osokogu, a 25-yearold postgraduate student of the Nassarawa State University, was murdered on July 22, 2012 in Lagos by men she met and became friends with on a social media site, Facebook. The accused, Okwumo
Nwabufo, 34, Olisaeloka Ezike, 24, Orji Osita, 33, and Ezike Nonso, 25, were arraigned before the court for conspiracy and murder by the Lagos State government. At the last sitting of the court, a prosecution witness, Emmanuel Peters, who was led in evidence by the Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Ade Ipaye, told the court how he made the video recording and certification. But the defendants’ counsel opposed the move to tender the vedio, a development that made the judge adjourn the case till
Monday. During yesterday proceedings, Peters, a film editor and cinematographer, identified the DVD, which has now been certified by the prosecution and Ipaye again sought to tender it. The second defendant’s counsel, Michael Ajayi, however, opposed the move, saying that the document does not fulfil the provisions of Section 104 of the Evidence Act. The lawyer submitted that the certification was done after the trial had commenced and that there was nothing to show that
legal fees had been paid to obtain the document, citing a case of Tapik United Vs GTB Plc. But Ipaye counter this by quoting Section 141 of the Evidence Act that the proof of payment is required where “there are legal fees prescribed in that respect.” He added that “the DVD was produced at the instruction of the police in the course of investigation; the whole purpose is to put it in evidence in a prosecution initiated by the state as between the police and the prosecuting authority.
short news
By Olugbenga Soyele, Lagos
Court Fixes July 16 To Hear Suit Against PENGASSAN
Havard School Set To Partner UNILAG Harvard School and the University of Lagos are working out a partnership arrangement in several academic areas. Speaking at the courtesy call in the Vice-Chancellor’s office Dr. Emmanuel Emmanuel Akyeampong of Harvard College said the visit was to activate possible partnership areas that will be to the benefit of the two Universities which will be followed up by the visit of members from Harvard University later. Akyeampong expressed Harvard University’s readiness to take on the responsibility of mentorship of any first-class student and staff that the University of Lagos would present within the agreed partnership arrangement between the institutions. By Taiwo Ogunmola Omilani,
‘Failure Of Labour Movement, Cause Of Prolonged ASUP Strike’ The Secretary General of Joint Action Front (JAF) Comrade Abiodun Aremu has disclosed that the failure of the labour movement contributed to the prolonged strike by the Academics Staff of Polytechnic (ASUP). He made this comment to LEADERSHIP yesterday while reacting to the prolonged ASUP strike that commenced October 2013. According to him, “This is not government problem but failure of labour movement which takes education of the nation with levity.” Aremu alleged that labour unions were now working with government. “ASUP don’t need to downtool if not of labour movement that has lost its goal and it is government controlling their souls. We need power of resistance to fight the battle,” he said. By Taiwo Ogunmola Omilani,
L-R: One-day deputy governor of Lagos Miss Blessing Azeez, Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, one-day governor Master Olabanji Edun and one-day Commissioner for Economic Planning Master David Chinweuba, during the students’ visit Governor Fashola in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO BY NAN
Lagos Schools Now Producing National Champions – Fashola By Taiwo Ogunmola Omilani, Lagos
Lagos State governor Babatunde Fashola yesterday reiterated the commitment of his administration to continue to give priority attention to education sector, saying students from the state public schools are now academic champions winning national competition awards. Fashola said this when the 15year-old Master Edun Olabanji of Army Children Senior Secondary School, Onigbongbo who came
first in the competition, initiated in 2001 by New Era Foundation under the leadership of Senator Oluremi Tinubu, acted as One-day Governor of Lagos State. Fashola who vacated his seat for the young Olabanji to preside over the Lagos State Executive Council, with his Deputy Opeyemi Blessing of Keme Balogun College at Igbogbo, Ikorodu and Macaulay Elijah Ayodele of Ojota Senior Secondary School, said the ceremony is geared towards inspiring the younger generation of Nigerians to greatness.
He said the traditional thing prevalent in the country with a change of government would have been to quickly do away with the idea, saying he retained the Oneday Governor initiative of his predecessor because of its positive impact in the lives of the students who participate in the competitions. According to him, “The seed that has been sown will germinate in ways we cannot contemplate; seeds of career choices decisions whether to serve in public sector or private sector.”
Justice Kenneth Amadi of the National Industrial Court in Lagos yesterday fixed July 16 to hear a case filed againt the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) by two of its members, over alleged breach of their rights. The plaintiffs, John Nwanosike and Jonathan Omare, who are members of the Chevron branch of the association, are seeking an order restraining the defendants from holding any delegates’ conference pending the determination of the suit. Joined as defendants in the suit are: PENGASSAN, its Chevron Branch, Esanubi Frank and Ayanate Kio. By Olugbenga Soyele, Lagos
Funsho Williams: Court Acquits Defendants After 8 Years By OLUGBENGA SOYELE, Lagos
Eight years after they were accused of killing former gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, Funsho Williams, a Lagos High Court in Igbosere yesterday set free six men arraigned for the offence. The trial judge, Justice Ebenezer Adebajo, in a ruling on a no-
case submission filed by the defence, held that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case against them to compel them to open their defence. The court also held that the evidence adduced by the prosecution to prove the two-count charge of conspiracy and murder against them was “weak and superficial.” Those set free by the court are Bulama Kolo, Musa Maina, David
Cassidy, Tunani Sonani, Mustapha Kayode and Okponwasa Imariabie. They were arraigned before the court by the Lagos State Government on March 1, 2013, on a two-count charge of conspiracy and murder. The defendants, in a no-case submission, had told Justice Adebajo that the state’s case against his clients must collapse because it was built on unfounded suspicion.
According to the defence counsel, Okezie Agbara, an analysis of the pieces of evidence adduced by the state showed that they were at best circumstantial. Agbara also stated that there had been no legally admissible evidence against the defendants. ,’’ Okezie argued, urging Justice Adebajo to hold that the prosecution failed to link any of the defendants with Williams’ murder.
news NATIONAL 45
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Use Ramadan For Reflection, Glo Urges Muslim Faithful
FG Expresses Worry Over Inflammatory Statements By CHIKA OTUCHIKERE, Abuja
on the effort to end insurgency and rescue the abducted Chibok schoolgirls, called on Nigerians to stop war mongering. “We wish to state our concern over statements being dished out by various organisations, groups and some individuals that tend to further worsen the security situation in the country. “In this wise, we call on Nigeri-
ans to stop war mongering aimed at heating up the already overheating and tense situation in the polity. We appeal to people to be patient with the government,” he said. Omeri reacted to Sunday’s attack in Kautikeri, Kwada and Birnjuzu, about 10 kilometres from Chibok, Borno State, saying that the casualties of the attack were
recorded in the Boko Haram camp. According to him, the attackers were shot by the military while attempting to flee the area. Omeri, who also disclosed that military operatives had been deployed to Sanga LGA of Kaduna State where unknown gunmen attacked, killing several persons, said normalcy had returned to the area.
National Telecommunications Op- The federal government has exerator, Globacom has wished Mus- pressed concern over what it lims in Nigeria divine strength termed statements being dished and spiritual fulfilment as the holy out that tend to worsen the secumonth of Ramadan commences. rity situation of the country. The company also urged Muslim Coordinator of the Nationfaithful to use the period to reded- al Information Centre, Mr Mike icate themselves to godliness, a life Omeri, who made this known of discipline and devotion to Al- yesterday while giving an update mighty Allah. In a statement signed by the company’s group chief operating officer, Mr Mohammed Jameel over the weekend, Globacom called on “all Muslims to pray with one accord for themselves, their families, the nation and the world in general.” Globacom said as Nigeria is currently passing through a trying phase in its development, Muslim faithful should pray for the peace and unity of the nation. The company advised Muslim Faithful to see the “Ramadan as a period of total spiritual cleansing, sober reflection and expression of love for other Faithful. We believe that this year’s Ramadan will usher in a new era of prosperity, love, peaceful co-existence and stability for our country,” the statement said. It urged Muslims to imbibe the teachings of Prophet Mohamed (SAW) and continue to live a life of uprightness while upholding the tenet of the Islamic religion, which is peace. “Globacom wishes all our Mus- L-R: Business Development Manager, Kano West, FirstBank, Mr Adamu Gambo; an SME participant; Group Executive, Retail Banking, lim brethren a very successful Ra- North, FirstBank, Mr Abdullahi Ibrahim; an SME participant, Alhaji Yahaya Fagge; and Business Development Manager, Kano Central, madan period and we pray that the FirstBank, Mr Ahmed Badawi, during the bank’s SME open seminar in Kano. Almighty Allah will show benevolence to all faithful and our country as a whole,” it said. Millie Ibe Abuja JOSHUA DADA, OSOGBO, Yola The communique signed by the national level, and thereby dechairman, secretary and convener bunked the speculations of his Former governor of Osun State, of the meeting, Engr. Olajide Ad- defection to All Progressives ConPrince Olagunsoye Oyinlola has eniji, Comrade Abayomi Adegoke gress either in principle or otherdenied reports that he has defect- and Rev Bunmi Jenyo respectively wise and warned the campaigners ed to the All Progressives Con- called on President Goodluck Jon- and speculators of such rumour gress (APC) in the state. athan and other PDP leaders to of calumny to desist henceforth. The Kupolokun family has anHe said he remains “a corner- return Oyinlola as the substantive “Oyinlola, however, declared nounced the death of their mothstone” of the Peoples Democrat- national secretary of the party as that he would not take any decier, grandmother, sister and aunt, ic Party (PDP) and would ensure affirmed by the Court of Appeal. sion without considering the inMrs Olubukola Olatokunbo Kuthat the party attains victory in The communique reads: “The terest of his supporters, his parpolokun. She died in a London the August 9 governorship elec- meeting affirmed that Prince ty, the people of the state as well hospital at the age of 63. tion in the state. Olagunsoye Oyinlola is a worthy, as Nigeria in general. A caring wife and mother, Mrs According to a communique dependable, reliable and trust“Prince Oyinlola is a rallying Kupolokun’s life was devoted to her issued after a meeting between ed leader of the party in the state point to record victory for the family, her activities in the AngliOyinlola and his supporters and passed Vote of Confidence on PDP during the forthcoming govcan Church and a meritorious cafrom all the local government ar- Prince Oyinlola as a bridge-build- ernorship election slated for Aureer in the education service of the eas across the state at his coun- er and rallying point for the mem- gust 9, 2014 by the Independent Lagos State government. try home in Okuku at the week- bers of PDP across the state. National Electoral Commission She is survived by her husband end, the former governor remains “The meeting also affirmed that (INEC) and will assist the nationand former NNPC GMD, Engr. F. a strong pillar of the party both Prince Oyinlola remains a corner- al leadership of the party to repoM. Kupolokun, four children, two in Osun State and at the nation- stone of the PDP in Osun and a sition the party for victory ahead grandchildren and numerous othal level. strong pillar of the party at the of 2015 general election”. er relatives. Burial arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
I Remain A Cornerstone Of PDP – Oyinlola
Wife Of Former NNPC GMD Dies At 63
short news Gov Shema Dissolves LG Caretaker C’ttee` Katsina State governor Ibrahim Shehu Shema has approved the dissolution of Transition Caretaker Committee chairmen for the 34 council areas in the state. According to a statement signed by the permanent secretary on special duties, Rabiu Abdu Rumah, the dissolution was in line with the Katsina State Local Government Law 2000. The statement directed the sacked caretaker chairmen to hand over to the head of local government administration pending the conduct of LG polls. The dissolution of the caretaker chairmen who had been piloting the affairs of the council areas for the past two years was part of the preparations for the August 2 council polls. By Muazu Elazeh, Katsina
Osun Guber: Why APC Is Against Military Presence – PDP By Chibuzo Ukaibe, Abuja
Late Mrs Kupolokun
As preparations for the Osun State governorship election intensify, the national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is kicking against the deployment of soldiers to Osun State because it intends to rig the election scheduled to hold on Au-
gust 9. The party also countered allegations of rigging in the Ekiti governorship election, stressing that the popularity of its candidate, Ayo Fayose, and the party’s insistence on transparent primaries gave the party victory at the June 21 polls. Addressing a press conference at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, the na-
tional publicity secretary of PDP, Olisa Metuh further declared that there would be no room for rigging the Osun election, noting that the presence of the military in Ekiti State during the governorship election helped to discourage rigging. Metuh said, “If not for the president’s strict insistence on having a peaceful election, the votes of the people in Eki-
ti would not have counted; they would have been truncated. They (APC) don’t want the military to come to Osun so that they can rig the election,” he said. Metuh stated that instead of the APC to disturb the military while it does its job ahead of the Osun election, its candidate should start campaigning as there is still about a month before the election.
46 news south-west Aftermath Of Ekiti: We Will Win Ogun Come 2015 – APC Scribe The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State has dismissed insinuations in some quarters that the party is panicky going by the actions of the state governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun after the defeat of the party in Ekiti State. The party, in a statement yesterday by its publicity secretary, Mr Sola Lawal, said it is confident that verifiable infrastructural rebirth of the state effected by the Senator Ibikunle Amosun administration would always be translated into electoral triumph for the APC. The statement dismissed suggestions that the Amosun administration embarked on panicky welfarist measures following the trouncing of APC in Ekiti State, saying that all recently executed policies of the administration have been long planned and commenced. “For instance, the public distribution of severance gratuity cheques to more than 200 past political office holders by the administration on Tuesday, June 24, barely 48 hours after the Ekiti election, could not have been planned, processed and executed in such a limited period of time if it was informed by the outcome of Ekiti election,” the party stated. By Gbenga Adeboye, Abeokuta
Expect Better Polls In 2015, INEC Tells Nigerians Ekiti State resident electoral commissioner, Alhaji Halilu Pai, has told Nigerians to expect better and more credible 2015 general elections. He also said that the June 21 governorship election in the state has redeemed the image and integrity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Pai, who spoke through the commission’s public relations officer in Ado-Ekiti, Mr Taiwo Gbadegesin, noted that the conduct of last year’s Anambra State governorship election brought the integrity of the commission to question and assured that the electoral body will conduct an election that everyone will be proud of. He said the former trend had been reversed through concerted efforts of the chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega by ensuring a credible and acceptable poll in Ekiti which represents the aspirations of the masses. “When the Anambra governorship election went in that very bad manner, the management was worried and they saw the Ekiti election as a way out. I mean, a way to redeem the image of the commission and this we had been able to achieve through dedication to duties. By Alo Abiola, Ado-Ekiti
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Ibadan Flood: Protest Paralyses Community’s Business Activities By Adebayo Waheed, Ibadan
Business activities were paralysed in most parts of the Apete Community in Ido local government area of Oyo State yesterday, as restive youths continued to protest last Saturday’s deaths of some members of the community following the collapse of a makeshift bridge during a heavy downpour. When Leadership visited the area, security operatives, mostly armed policemen, were seen keeping vigil on the community to ward off the protesters and keep the peace.
No fewer than 10 pick-up vans belonging to security operatives were stationed in strategic locations in the community while there was heavy presence of armed policemen at a fuel station close to the collapsed bridge (Ronkol Global Oil). Some of the residents who spoke with our correspondent put the number of those washed away by the flood at between 15 and 25. However, official figures of casualties were still being awaited as at the time of filing this report.
Accord Party Sympathises with families of Flood Victims Meanwhile, the Accord Party in Oyo State yesterday sympathised with the people of the state, particularly family members, friends and well-wishers of victims of Saturday’s heavy downpour which claimed many innocent, promising souls. The party’s publicity secretary, Dr Nureni Adeniran in a statement in Ibadan, described the flood as an avoidable incident and another manifestation of the neglect of the people by an insensitive APC-led government in the state.
short news Aregbesola’s Devt Style Encouraged Us – Church
L-R: Public Relation Officer, All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State, Mr Funsho Ologunde, Deputy Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Taiwo Kolawole, Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeyemi Ikuforiji, National Leader, All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, his wife, Remi, and Senator Demola Seriki, during the 2014 inaugural lecture orgarnised by Freedom House Democracy Lecture Series in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO B Y GBENGA OLAJOBI.
Enikuomehin, Others Dump LP For PDP PDP’ll win S/West in 2015 – Filani By Tope Fayehun, Akure
The national vice chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Southwest geo-political zone, Chief Isola Filani has said that the party has been repositioned to return the Yoruba race to the mainstream of national politics come 2015 general elections. Filani, who was speaking in Igbokoda in Ilaje local government area
of Ondo State when former commissioner of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Benson Enikuomehin led about 1,700 of his supporters from Labour Party (LP) to PDP, said the marginalisation of the race would stop when governors and representatives of the people in the National Assembly are elected under the platform of the party. Enikuomehin who was speaking on behalf of other defectors said he was deceived to believing that once Governor Olusegun Mimiko wins
the governorship election under the platform of LP, he would defect to the PDP. He said many of them were members of PDP in Abuja and members of LP in Ondo State, the development that made them to have two party cards. Enikuomehin said he and his supporters from Ilaje/ Eseodo federal constituency have decided to remain in the PDP and work for the victory of the party and its candidates in future elections.
The senior pastor of the Business Church, Ado-Ekiti, Rev Tope Popoola, has said that the landmark achievements of Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola motivated the ministry to donate hospital bedding to the state public hospitals. Speaking at Osogbo while presenting hospital materials to the hospitals, the cleric also said the donation was driven by the passion to contribute the widow’s mite of the church to complement the efforts of the administration of Aregbesola. Rev Popoola made the donation of 300 pillows to state-owned hospitals under the aegis of his NGO, Give Pillow Campaign. By Joshua Dada, Osogbo
PDP Alleges Plot To Use EFCC Against Fayose By Alo Abiola, Ado-Ekiti
Ekiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) of planning to embarrass the governor-elect, Ayodele Fayose through the instrumentality of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This was contained in a press release signed by the party’s publicity secretary in the state, Pastor Kola Oluwawole and made available to
newsmen in Ado Ekiti yesterday. According to the statement, some national leaders of APC allegedly held a meeting in Lagos to review the governorship election won by Fayose and strategise on how to upturn the victory through judicial manipulations. Reacting, the APC director of publicity and media in the state, Mr Segun Dipe, who denied the allegation, said the governor-elect is afraid of his own shadow, adding that APC has more important things to do than running after
Fayose who is being haunted by his past. Fayose Asks Court To Dismiss Case Against Him For Lack Of Jurisdiction Meanwhile, Ekiti State governor-elect, Mr Ayo Fayose has asked an Ado-Ekiti High Court to dismiss the case brought against him by an Ekiti socio-cultural organisation, “E-eleven” and Citizen Party for lack of jurisdiction. Fayose, through his lead counsel, Mr Raji Ahmed (SAN), prayed that
the case be transferred to the Federal High Court since it involved both Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and national secretariat of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The case filed at the court, according to him, was addressed to the Abuja offices of both INEC and PDP, which were joined in the case, and should, therefore, be declared null and void. Justice Olusegun Ogunyemi later adjourned the case till July 18 for ruling.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Dickson Okays Severance Pay For Sylva, Others In Bayelsa The Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson, has approved the release of funds for the payment of the pension and severance pay to former governors, deputies and other former political office holders including the immediate past governor, Chief Timipre Sylva. Also approved by Governor Dickson is the setting up of a fourman committee to look into the review of the revocation of the sales of the Government Quaters in Opolo area of the state to political office holders in the last administration and the issues that arose from the sack of members of State Government Statutory Agencies and Commissions under the last administration. The committee is made up of Bayelsa State Secretary to the State Government, Professor Edmund Allisson-Oguru, and the State Commissioner of Justice and Attorney-General,Kemesuode Wodu. While on the side of the Former Political Appointees were Former Secretary to the State Government,Alabo Gideon Ekeowe and the Former Special Adviser on Legal Matters,Barr.Dennis Otiotio. By Osa Okhomina, Yenagoa
JTF Confirms Armed Attack On 2 Passenger Boats In Bayelsa Authorities of the Joint Military Task Force, code-named Operation Pulo Shield weekend, confirmed armed attacks on two passenger boats by armed men suspected to be renegade militants operating from the Ekeni community in Southern Ijaw local government area of Bayelsa State. According to the JTF, the armed renegade militants invaded the Zion community in the same council area and carted away N1 million dispossessed the natives of their valuables. JTF stated that the armed attack on the serene riverside settlement triggered panic in the area as the gunshots from the invaders rented the air causing some of the terrified natives to flee their homes.The hoodlums, it was learnt, harassed, extorted money and consumable items from their victims before escaping. The Coordinator of the Joint Media Campaign Centre of the Joint Task Force in the Niger Delta codenamed Operation Pulo Shield, Lt. Col Mustapha Anka , in a statement at the weekend, confirmed that the the armed men also intercepted and diverted two passenger boats and abducted passengers on board. Osa Okhomina, yenagoa Dickson,
news south-South south-East 47
Emab Plaza Bombing: Uduaghan Commiserates With New Telegraph, Bisalla’s Family By Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba
Delta State governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, has expressed his deep condolences to the management and staff of the New Telegraph Newspaper on the unfortunate death of their Managing Editor, Mr. Suleiman Bisalla, who was one of the victims of the Emab Plaza bombing last Wednesday. Governor Uduaghan, in a press statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Sunny Ogefere, also
commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE) and families of other victims of the blast. “I share in the grief of the loss of Suleiman whom I believe had distinguished himself as an accomplished, versatile and crack journalist given the stream of encomiums and tributes that have poured in since his unfortunate death,” Uduaghan said.
He noted that Bisalla’s death would no doubt be a big blow to the New Telegraph, which although debutted early this year but had already carved a niche for itself in the industry. Uduaghan observed: “While not diminishing the loss of other victims of the unfortunate blast, as one with a deep passion and love for journalists, I received the news of the death of Suleiman with great sense of loss and sadness.” The governor urged Suleiman’s
professional colleagues in the NUJ and the NGE not to be discouraged by the loss of one of their own, but to see it as a clarion call to join hands with the President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration fight against terror. “I have no doubt in my mind that the raging wave of insurgency will not consume us as a nation but with the cooperation and commitment of all and sundry we will defeat this monster of terrorism,” he assured.
short news NULGE Gives Edo LG Bosses Ultimatum Over Unpaid Salaries The Edo State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) yesterday issued a 14-day ultimatum to local government council chairmen over the non-payment of workers’ salaries and illegal deduction of Pay As You Earn (PAYE) to the board of internal revenue. The local Group of Permanent Secretaries taking oath of office before their swearings-in by Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha government union, at Sam Mbakwe Expanded Exco, Government House, Owerri. PHOTO BY GOVERNMENT HOUSE. while warning that deduction of PAYE should be stopped henceforth By Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba until salaries are to reposition NSITF was in pursu- parent and equitable government paid, insisted that ance of the transformation agenda agencies in Nigeria. In a bid to actualize the full objec- of President Goodluck Jonathan, as NULGE will ground Meanwhile, the attention of the tive of the Employees’ Compensa- such no stone will be left unturned NSITF has been drawn to the fraudactivities at the tion Scheme (ECS), Nigeria Social to ensure that the agency measures ulent activities of some scammers affected council in Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) is re- up to global standards. the state. using the internet and other social positioning the agency in line with The affected She also affirmed that the agen- media platforms to swindle innothe provision of the Act establish- cy would not succumb to blackmail cent job seekers, with promises of councils are ing it. Ikpoba-Okha, Egor, and will not be distracted in its ef- fake job vacancies in the agency. NSITF board chairman, Dr. Ngozi forts to achieve its core mandate. Orhionmwon and NSITF, in a statement, frowned Olejeme explained that in order to Uhunmwonde According to her, NSITF applies at this act and dissociates itself actualize the agency’s mandate, it very strict employment policy, from the activities of the scammers, and by Esan West is restructuring the organization which has earned accolades from the agency also warned the public council local and also re-engineering its current several organizations, particular- to disregard individuals requesting government areas workforce to reflect the objectives ly by the Federal Character Com- for money or any form of gratificaof Edo State. of the scheme. mission which recently adjudged tion in exchange for job opportuniBy: Patrick Olejeme hinted that the efforts NSITF as one of the most trans- ties in the agency. Ochoga, Benin City
We Won’t Succumb To Cheap Blackmail – Olejeme
Early Morning Downpour Batters Uyo, Renders Scores Homeless By Bernard Tolani Dada, Uyo
An early morning heavy downpour in Uyo Akwa Ibom State capital yesterday flooded parts of the metropolis, causing serious gridlocks on major roads. Commuters and motorists plying the ever-busy Uyo IkotEkpene highway saw hell as they were trapped in the gridlock for several hours as a result of the
flooding. The situation at Wellington Bassey Way and the adjoining streets was also pathetic as motorists and commuters were not spared of nightmare arising from the flooded road. Many houses along Barracks road, Ukana-Offot and Etuk street were submerged and several people were rendered homeless in the relentless and unfor-
giving flood. A resident of the area, Miss Edidiong Akpan, lamented the damage caused by the rain, saying that most of them had lost all their belongings to the rampaging flood. Reports from various parts of the metropolis revealed that major roads, such as Olusegun Obasanjo Way along Abak road, Itam in Itu area, Oron road, Uru-
an Street, Ibrahim Babangida Avenue and Nwaneba roads, were also flooded. The flood, which created bottlenecks, forced commuters to be stranded on the roads, causing many to arrive their destinations behind schedules. Also, several vehicles, which could not withstand the enormity of the flood, were stuck in the flood.
48 news NATIONAL Salem University Gets Full Accreditation It was another landmark in the history of Salem University Lokoja a fast-growing institution as it played host to the National Universities Commission (NUC) during it’s accreditation visit in April, 2014 and received 100 per cent accreditation from NUC in all its programmes. In a statement by the institution public relation officer, Mr Ogalla Abah Jude, ‘’NUC released the result where the visit of the NUC to the University was to access and inspect the physical facilities, structures as well as the academic content of the programmes (criminology and penology, economics, international relation and diplomacy and peace and development studies) offered in the department of social sciences and public administration in the department of management sciences of the school.’’ According to the statement, ‘’The accreditation will fast tract Salem University dream and vision to reform functional education in the country whereby it’s is committed to raising students who themselves show commitment to a life style of continuous academic and personal development. Also his vision to be a center of excellence for the production of graduates who are worthy in learning and character by empowering them to be global leaders through promoting their natural abilities and enhancing their practical skills has crystallized unto reality.’’ By Tunde Oguntola, Abuja
Politicians Should Be Mindful Of Posterity – APC Youth Politicians in the country have been urged to emulate the founding Fathers of Nigeria who were mindful of the posterity when they were given the opportunity to serve the people instead of acquiring wealth. The counsel was made yesterday by the National Youth Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at a press conference addressed to endorse its national leader for the party, Ibrahim Dasuki Jalo Waziri whose election is being disputed on age ground. Addressing the press on behalf of the caucus, former National Youth Leader of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Comrade Ebikibina Miriki, the caucus reminded the political class that history is always there as the judge to every leader. “History has never been kind to leaders who chose to use political power to serve interests that were extraneous or injurious to the interests of the people they led. Indeed, past leaders like Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe and Chief Obafemi Awolowo continued to be celebrated because they were leaders who governed with posterity in mind. By Bayo Oladeji, Abuja
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Boko Haram: Experts Want FG To Open Trauma Help Lines By Winifred Ogbebo, Abuja
In view of the security challenges in the country, a United Kingdom- based Consultant Psychiatrist and President of Reconnect Health Development initiative (Reconnect HDI,) Dr Vincent Udenze, has called on the federal government to put in place, trauma lines that can provide psychological services to Nigerians. He said that Nigerians presently are being traumatised as they live in deep fear, height-
ened anxiety, despair, helplessness, hopelessness, depression due to the horrors from the activities of insurgencies in the country. According to a statement made available to LEADERSHIP yesterday in Abuja by the consultant psychiatrist, “ Nigeria cannot boast of one effective crisis helpline that can help to offer victims with psychological interventions despite the various degree of tragedies bedevilling the country.” He added that the federal gov-
ernment should as a matter of urgency make it a top priority, saying, “the crises in northern Nigeria following the Boko haram insurgence are psychologically devastating. Governors should be advocating for improved psychological support for the citizenry. You will never know the importance of these services until you set one up and collect data on people who have subscribed to it. He said, ‘Nigerians need to be able to pick the phone and call a toll free number to speak
to counselors who speak local dialects. This service has to be a 24hrs service. Sometimes stress, trauma, depression can make you have negative thoughts to the point of being suicidal. Sometimes you need to speak to a professional to counsel you and then encourage you to seek further help. “Nigerians do commit suicide due to depressed mood but we don’t have government data to capture the enormity of this problem.
short news NDE Graduates 273 In Edo, Disburses Resettlement Equipment The National Directorate of Employment, NDE, disclosed that 273 persons recently passed out under the National Open Apprenticeship Scheme (NOAS) with 25 graduants getting resettlement equipment as loan of the vocational Skill Development Programme. Edo State L-R: Country Director, National Democratic Institute (NDI), Mr Jasner Veen and Director-General, Peoples Democratic In- Coordinator of stitute (PDI), Dr Lanre Adebayo, during the Country Director’s visit to Adebayo in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY ADEFEMI ADEWUYI. NDE, Ayo Edegbai, who stated this at the graduation ceremony in Benin City, said the vocational skill development programme By Achor Abimaje, Jos is time for our people to give Government is mindful of the was designed to peace a chance and embrace global trend and the necessity provide technical Minister of Information and oneness”. to go digital come 1st January and vocational Communication, Mr Labaran He further assured Nigerians 2015. skill to unemMaku , has appealed to North- of a smooth transition from the In his words “ The Federployed youths and ern leaders for cooperation to- analogue to digital broadcasting al Government is aware of the persons who lack ward the restoration of peaceful transmission come 1st January crucial funding needed for the productive and coexistence in the region for the 2015. successful transition from the marketable skills benefit of digitalisation of the Maku made the disclosure in analogue mode to the Digital for any form of broadcast media. Jos yesterday at the pilot digi- Terrestrial Television (DTT) employment. In his words “The North is tal switch over fla goff campaign platform which has a deadline By Patrick known for her high moral dis- in Jos. for its complete switch over on Ochoga, Benin cipline and good conduct so it He explained that Federal the 1st of January 2015. City
Digital Switch Over Campaign: Maku Seeks Cooperation Of Northern Leaders
Boko Haram: Cleric Urges Security Agencies To Shield Informants By Igho Oyoyo, Abuja
The Catholic Arch-Diocese of Abuja has called on security agencies to cultivate the attitude of treating information given to them about Boko Haram sect with confidentiality, by protecting informant identities, in order to gain the trust of Nigerians in assisting them to fight against
the insurgence group. The Parish Priest of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, the Very Rev. Fr Innocent Jooji who made this call during a press briefing on the church fund raising ceremony of N1.5bn building project to be held on Wednesday in Abuja, said that the Nigerians should know that the fight against terrorism is a collective responsibility.
and should not be left for the federal government alone. According to the Catholic Parish Priest, religion should not be used as an excuse to perpetrate evil acts, that any body who uses a place of worship, which is sacred, where people have encounter with their God, as a launching pad for violence, they should desist from it.
“We pray that those who are fermenting trouble should try and refrain from it. Religion should never be used as a vehicle to destroy human beings and property, but, it should be a vehicle that should be used to unite and love, because, we preach love, forgiveness, reconciliation and unity. We must not contradict this.
ISSUES 49
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Chibok And The Failure Of Reporting By LANRE IDOWU
Insecurity as typified by the Boko Haram menace (BHM) must rank as one of the longest running stories in the Nigerian media. For five years now, the BHM has unrelentingly hugged the headlines and redefined life in northern Nigeria especially with stories of one bestial killing competing with another in the resolve to overwhelm the people. Hiding under the clamour for an Islamic state, the BHM has denounced western education as sinful and made centres of learning objects of regular and special attacks, especially in the last two years. Last year alone, no fewer than 50 schools were destroyed in northern Nigeria with over 30 teachers and scores of students killed. At first, the protest wore the garb of speeding motorcyclists hurling firebombs at police stations and other state installations in state capitals. Later it donned the toga of religious attack as churches were burned down regularly. When those urban centres were better secured, the attacks relocated to schools and homes mostly in the urban outskirts, and later rural settings without regard to religion or ethnicity. Usually a band of marauders storms a remote village, looting their foodstuff, sacking their homes, and killing their men and women. This year alone, about 2000 lives have been wasted, including the massacre of 500 at a market on May 5. At the Federal Government College, Buni Yadi, Yobe State, 59 boys were slaughtered like rams by these agents of darkness. It is, however, the April 14 abduction of 276 girls from their school dormitory that has caught the attention of the world like no
To begin with, the Nigerian media like the Nigerian presidency have shied away from visiting Chibok for any meaningful on-the-spot-reporting other. How such an act could be pulled off without challenge in a state under emergency rule beggars the imagination. It also mocks the government’s avowed responsibility to promote the citizens’ welfare and guarantee their security. This callous act has compelled response from almost all corners of Nigeria, where the protest culture has been muted for long. Privileged Nigerians, who otherwise may have been content to make verbal denunciations, have taken to the streets in their conscientious resistance to this descent to sheer terror. Beyond Nigeria to Africa, the Western cities of Europe, the Americas, and Australia, condemnation continues to trail
this heartless act. In the face of Nigeria’s limited capacity to tackle this type of asymmetrical war, it is understandable, if unfortunate, that foreign troops from more experienced countries are now in Nigeria to help fashion a better response to the insurgency. This turning point obviously calls for more robust coverage and analysis of the BHM. Regrettably, the Nigerian media have shown limited capacity to rise to the occasion. Beyond the reactive reports, which are filed hundreds of kilometres from the trouble spots, Nigerians have had to rely on the foreign media to get a clearer understanding of the issues at stake.
To begin with, the Nigerian media like the Nigerian presidency have shied away from visiting Chibok for any meaningful on-the-spotreporting. By so doing, they have denied the public a firsthand pulse of the sense of life and living there and dismissed the Chibok people as not being important enough to have their experience directly mediated by the media. True, Chibok, linked to Maiduguri, Borno State capital, by a 134 kilometre lone dusty road, is nobody’s favourite destination. But the magnitude of its loss compels a better reporting response, which has eluded the Nigerian media. That can be blamed on the parlous state of the media. From the owners to the reporters, everyone is sworn to a journalism of convenience. This mindset explains why no medium invests enough resources to report stories beyond the relative comfort of urban centres, much less one in a conflict zone. Media managers are generally satisfied with coverage that guarantees advertisement patronage from various tiers of government and business interests. State correspondents have conditioned themselves to “pack journalism” of reporting events from the prism and precincts of Government houses. It is usually when illicit negotiations break down that some angry reports filter into the public space about government’s shortcomings. In the case of Chibok, it is from the foreign media that we learnt firsthand of the state of the Government Girls’ Secondary School after the Boko Haram invasion and abduction. It took CNN’s visit to Chibok for Nigerians to get a guided visual tour of the burnt school and comprehend the enormity of the damage. It is also from CNN
that we had glimpse of a victim’s account of her ordeal on television. It is also from them that hard probing questions on the Nigerian experience, which should be the hallmark of reporting, resurfaced on television as our Information minister was forced to shift gear from his usual self-assured soapbox-like exhortations to mumbling excuses for inaction. A good reminder that fawning questioning in the name of respecting authority is an abdication of duty! The Daily Mail, Reuters, BBC, the New York Times and Los Angeles Times, to mention a few, have joined CNN to explain developments in the Chibok story that are lost on the Nigerian media. Regrettably, Nigerian dailies, without a touch of irony, dutifully reproduce these reports for their readers’ consumption. The abnormal has become normal as the Nigerian pathfinders that should guide the rest of the world on happenings in their backyard have been reduced to playing catch up. In the journey to this sorry pass, the military are not blameless. Media managers have complained of the military’s unwillingness to embed their reporters in periodic sorties to conflict zones, especially those suffering from BHM. The military have always hidden under the cover of the unconventional nature of the war as not conducive to such “adventures”. The truth, however, is unless the military have something to hide, they need to cultivate the media to convey better the challenges of the war and secure the public buy-in without which no war is successfully conducted. –Idowu is editor-in-chief of Media Review
Quantum Physics And The Power Of Positive Intent By jAmEs AIgBOmIAN
Quantum physics describes the behavior of matter and energy, particularly atoms and subatomic particles. It is nearly impossible to imagine the strange behavior of this matter using our common sense. An electron in an atom, for example, performs a trick much like the crew aboard Star Trek’s Enterprise when it “beams” from one energy level to another by jumping from one place to another without passing in between. If we aren’t watching this jump, then we have no control as to when this will happen. But suppose we do watch? Then things change dramatically. The quantum physical world is very different from the world we are accustomed to. In our ordinary, everyday lives, this difference isn’t noticed. But if current experiments in quantum physics are relevant to
our everyday experiences, you can alter the crapshoot of life, so long as you begin seeing things quantum mechanically and learn to take appropriate action in doing so. According to quantum physics, there is no reality until that reality is perceived, We call this ‘the observer effect.” Because we don’t typically pay attention to the perception process, our immediate experience usually wilt not snow how our act of perception changed anything. However, if we look carefully, we can see that our way of perceiving did indeed change the history of our observations. This may make sense to you when looking at some past events and deciding in hindsight what they meant. But you may wonder, “I didn’t actually change reality, did I? I just changed my interpretation of it.” The answer, as surprising as it may seem, is that you did in fact change reality by the manner you
went about observing it. A Watched Pot Never Boils In the world described successfully by quantum mechanics, observers ultimately and fundamentally affect the universe whenever they observe anything in it because it is not possible to observe everything about anything in any single observation. If we were to see atomic and subatomic processes, this realisation would be very apparent and the difference would be quite magnified and astonishing to our normal way of seeing. Take the old proverb “a watched pot never boils.” Now imagine an atom-sised pot of water being heated on a correspondingly tiny stove. We all know that heated pots of water will in fact come to a boil, given a little time. You would certainly think that this watched “quantum” pot would also boil. It turns out, however, that if you vigilantly watch the pot,
it will never boil. In fact, all vigilantly watched “quantum pots” refuse to boil, even if they are heated forever. The only requirement for nonboiling is that observers must have the intent to see the object—in this case, the quantum pot—in its initial state. This intent is determined by the frequency of their observations.
It is not possible to observe everything about anything in any single observation Looking repeatedly, in very short time intervals, they find the object in the same state as it was the last time they looked. Suppose a physicist doesn’t watch vigilantly, or suppose that she or he does, but does so with the intent of seeing the situation
evolve differently. Then what? If the physicist looks intermittently, expecting it to boil eventually, the pot will follow its natural unobserved course and will boil. These infrequent observations have little effect on the natural result. There is another important bizarre aspect to all this. What if you want the watched pot to do wild or highly improbable? If the intent to observe that occurrence is vigilant enough, the object will actually follow the bizarre path. You may vigilantly observe the object along an unnatural evolution by narrowing your vision to observe only those pots that have reached new goals at appropriate times. Again such a measurement or observation is one where you ignore those results that do not conform to your wilder expectations. – Aigbomian is founder of Merchant Inc and can be reached at mistajaybee@gmail.com
50 WORLD NEWS
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
world
news ➊ ➏
➍ ➌
➊ Ukraine, Russia
➐➎
➋
Foreign Satellites Into Space
India’s domestically-produced Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) has blasted off from the southern spaceport of Sriharikota, carrying satellites from France, Germany, Canada and Singapore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi
hailed India’s low-cost space technology on Monday, saying a rocket which launched five foreign satellites into orbit had cost less to make than the Hollywood film “Gravity,” which had a budget of about $100m.
➏ Italian Navy Picks Up Thousands Of Migrants
More than 5,000 migrants have been picked up by the Italian navy in the past 48 hours in several rescue operations between Sicily and North Africa. Yesterday, about 30 bodies were found in one of the migrant
boats, Italian news agencies reported, citing the navy and coastguard. The rescuers made the gruesome discovery when they boarded a fishing boat carrying around 590 refugees and migrants.
Pakistan has launched a ground offensive against rebel strongholds near the Afghan border after evacuating nearly half a million people from the tribal region, the army has said.
A military statement said on Monday that soldiers had found underground tunnels and bomb-making factories in Miranshah, the capital of North Waziristan.
➎ India Launches
➋ North Korea To Put
‘Agree’ On Ceasefire
US Tourists On Trial
The Russian and Ukrainian presidents have agreed in a phone conversation to work on extending a ceasefire between Kiev and pro-Kremlin militias, the French presidency has said. In a four-way teleconference on Monday which also included the French and German leaders, Vladimir Putin and Petro Poroshenko agreed to work on “the adoption of an
North Korea has said it will put two US tourists on trial for committing crimes against the state, dimming any hopes among their families that they would soon be released. “Their hostile acts were confirmed by evidence and their own testimonies,” said the official KCNA news agency on Monday, referring to Jeffrey Fowle and Matthew Miller who are being held by the country.
➌ Oscar Pistorius ‘Had ➍ 2 Police Officers No Mental Disorder’
Killed In Egypt Bomb
Oscar Pistorius did not have a mental disorder when he killed his girlfriend, a psychological report said as his murder trial resumed. That meant the Olympic athlete was criminally responsible for his actions when he shot her, the prosecution said. The defence team has said Mr Pistorius was suffering from an anxiety disorder.
Two Egyptian police officers have been killed and several others wounded in a small explosion near the presidential palace in Cairo’s Heliopolis district, the Interior Ministry has said. Security forces were defusing one makeshift bomb found at a street intersection near the presidential palace on Monday when a second device exploded, the ministry said in a statement.
➐ Pakistan Launches Ground War In Waziristan
WORLD NEWS 51
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
UK Flexible Working Rights Extended To UK Employees can grow,” said Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg. “It’s about time we brought working practices bang up-to-date with the needs, and choices, of our modern families.” The Chartered Institute of Personnel Development said the change in the law was recognition of the growing importance of flexible working for both employees and An Israeli woman holding a sign with images of three missing Israeli teenagers, at employers. a rally in Rabin Square in the coastal city of Tel Aviv June 29, 2014. “Employers increasingly recognise the strong business case for flexible working, including enhanced employee engagement Every employee now has the right months’ service, comes less than a and the attraction and retention of to request flexible working hours week after the government said it a more diverse workforce,” said the after the government extended the would ban employers from stopping institute’s chief executive Susannah Israeli security forces yesterday denied involvement. right previously reserved for carers staff with zero-hours contracts - Clements. found the bodies of three teenagIsrael sent large forces to areas under which employees’ hours are The TUC welcomed the move, and those looking after children. ers who went missing in the West of the West Bank to look for GilAs part of the right, employees not guaranteed - seeking extra work but said more needed to be done to ensure that employees’ requests Bank earlier this month and con- Ad Shaer and U.S.-Israeli nationcan expect their request to be elsewhere. firmed them as the Israeli semi- al Naftali Fraenkel, both 16, and considered “in a reasonable The government expects the were given fair consideration. “When you make a flexible nary students sought since June Eyal Yifrah, 19. The three went manner” by employers. extension of flexible working rights missing near a settlement in the The Department for Business, to be of particular interest to older working request you also need a 12, Israeli media said. Al Jazeera television, quot- occupied West Bank. Innovation and Skills said 20 workers approaching retirement fair hearing, so we should improve Israeli forces mounted, and million people now had the right and to young workers looking for things further by giving people a ing Israeli sources, also reported to ask to work flexibly. additional training while they work. right to challenge an employer’s that the bodies had been found have since sharply scaled back, a Unions and employment groups “Modern businesses know that reason for rejecting a request,” said and said the inner Israeli cabinet sweep through Palestinian towns welcomed the move. flexible working boosts productivity the TUC’s general secretary Frances was to hold an emergency meet- and villages, mainly in and around the southern West Bank city of ing later in the evening. The change in the law, which and staff morale, and helps them O’Grady. Israel has accused the Palestin- Hebron. Dozens of Hamas mem—BBC affects everyone with more than six keep their top talent so that they ian Islamist movement Hamas, bers have been detained. which has its power base in the Since the start of the Israeli Gaza Strip, of being behind the operation, some 40 rockets have abduction of the teenagers. Ha- been fired into Israel from the mas has neither confirmed nor Gaza Strip, the military said. done their best to keep this market as liquid as posof the day sible, and that liquidity is restricting investors from finding a place other than stocks and have enabled risk takers to stay confident,” said Rick Meckler, president of investment firm LibertyView Capital Management in Jersey City, New Jersey. The rebels reportedly seized Fresh clashes have been reported The S&P closed Friday just 0.1 percent below its control of parts of the Speicher between jihadist-led Sunni rebels record close set a week earlier. and government forces around army base to the north of the city, On Monday, the market barely budged after data despite coming under attack from the Iraqi city of Tikrit. showed the pace of business activity in June in the ➔ Dolly Witnesses said there had been government helicopters. US Midwest dipped more than expected from a Parton US stocks were little changed yesterday following seven-month high, and contracts to buy previously a wave of air strikes and that forThe Iraqi army denied reports The veteran mixed economic data, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq owned U.S. homes hit an eight-month high in May. mer President Saddam Hussein’s that the rebels had driven back a country singer has been the Composite indexes set to close a sixth straight quarpalace had been hit. convoy coming to the aid of the For the second half of the year “we need followtoast of the ter of gains - a streak not seen in more than 14 years. through in economic data or we’re likely to see the A local source told the BBC base. party during Following a 30 percent gain on the S&P 500 index same drift in stocks,” said Meckler. the rebels had meanwhile seized Tikrit was seized by Isis-led her debut at last year, many investors had expected a halt to an parts of a nearby military base in militants on 11 June as they “Either stocks come off because earnings don’t the Glastonswept across large parts of northequity bull market that is now into its fifth year. a counter-attack. deliver or bond yields rise because growth is finally bury music It comes a day after the Islamic ern and western Iraq, and has Still, even as the US Federal Reserve has gradu- realized.” festival in State in Iraq and the Levant (Isis) been the scene of fierce clashes ally been easing back its economic stimulus, major The Dow Jones industrial average .DJI rose 5.08 Somerset, announced the creation of a “ca- between the two sides in recent indexes are up for the first half of the year and the points, or 0.03 percent, to 16,856.92, the S&P 500 England. liphate”. days. S&P 500 has posted more than 20 record highs at .SPX gained 2.47 points, or 0.13 percent, to 1,963.43 the close. Bond yields, expected to have risen after and the Nasdaq Composite .IXIC added 9.63 points, a run-up late last year, have broadly fallen. or 0.22 percent, to 4,407.56. “The Fed and other global monetary forces have ‑Reuters of the day
ISRAEL Bodies Of 3 Missing Teens Found In West Bank
Winner
Wall Street Little Changed, Set To End Quarter Higher
IRAQ CRISIS Fighting In Tikrit After ‘Caliphate’ Declared
LOSer
INT’L RELATIONS Israel To Partner Kogi State In Solid Minerals Development
AVIATION Milestone As Boeing delivers 747 Number 1,500 ➔ General Xu Caihou One of China’s most senior military officials, he has been accused of accepting bribes and has been expelled from the Communist Party.
The 1,500th Boeing 747 has been delivered to German carrier Lufthansa -- a figure unsurpassed by any other wide-bodied plane. To celebrate, the plane was greeted with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and given a special logo in honour of its status. It’s the biggest milestone yet for the aircraft affectionately known as the “Queen of the Skies.” The 747’s milestone comes as the aviation market is shifting away from jumbo jets. Many airlines now prefer to run medium-sized twin-engine planes -- such as the Boeing 777 or Airbus A330 -- on
more frequent timetables than operate four-engine double-decker jets. The smaller planes seat fewer passengers but cover the same distances and need less fuel. Japanese carrier ANA made headlines earlier this year when it retired its last two 747s for economic reasons, despite the airline’s professed emotional ties to the aircraft. The revolutionary jet is beloved not only for its mammoth size and recognizable shape, but for the way it’s influenced the aviation industry during a five-decade career. —CNN
By Ugochukwu iroka, Abuja
The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Uriel Palti has indicated Israel’s willingness to collaborate with Kogi state government in order to harness the vast solid mineral deposits as well the tourism potentials of the North Central State. Kogi is said to harbor 29 out of the 34 mineral deposits in the country. Mr. Palti, who was on an official visit to the state, gave this assurance during a reception by the State Governor, Captain Idris Wada, in company with the deputy governor, Mr. Yomi Awoniyi and other top officials of the state at the Government
House, Lokoja, recently. He said having lived in Nigeria for the past 15 months as ambassador; he fell in love with the country and was inclined to learn more about its rich cultural, economic, tourism opportunities, which abound outside the Federal Capital Territory. He said he was delighted to accept the invitation of the Governor to visit Kogi state. The Ambassador then formally invited the Governor to visit Israel with a view to meeting and discussing possible areas of investment with potential investors at the African Israeli Chamber of Commerce and Israeli Export Institute.
52 Analysis
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Post-sanctions Iran: The Next China?
T
he lightning advance of the group now calling itself the Islamic Caliphate (formerly known as Islamic State in Iraq and Levant) throughout the north and eastern portions of Iraq has rattled governments across the region and beyond. For the first time in recent memory, there is the possibility that a terrorist group could end up controlling the geographical heart of the Middle East, home to one of the world’s largest hydrocarbon reserves. Quite paradoxically, such a worrying prospect has pushed Tehran and Washington closer to each other, as the two powers contemplate a modus vivendi to contain the menace and aid the flailing Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki-led government in Baghdad, which has been criticised for its lack of inclusive governance and increasingly authoritarian tendencies. Given their shared strategic concern over the rapid proliferation of violent groups such as the Islamic Caliphate, there is a growing conversation about the possibility of a tactical alliance between the West and Iran - paving the way for a fundamental reconfiguration in the regional balance of power. Above all, however, the greater issue at hand is the gradual re-emergence of Iran, currently among the world’s 20 largest economies, as a serious international power, after years of geopolitical isolation and bitter ideological competition with the West. And it is the combination of pragmatism and resilience that underpins Iran’s increasingly successful bid for (retaking) a pride of place among the world’s leading nations.
Iran has managed to attain growing selfsufficiency in terms of space and nuclear technology
Beyond deng and gorbachev After his landslide victory in mid-2013, when tens of millions of Iranians unequivocally voted for greater pragmatism and moderation in the country’s domestic and foreign policies, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani assembled one of the most capable governments in Iranian history. In fact, his cabinet boasts more American PhDs than the White House. Today, Rouhani oversees a highly professional, technocratic government, with an intimate understanding of not only international affairs, but also the US political system and its vagaries. A year into office, the Rouhani administration has
Iranians shopping at a Bazar
not only addressed pressing macroeconomic issues, particularly an explosive inflation and a collapsing domestic currency, but it has also managed to sustain a series of high-stakes negotiations with world powers to resolve a decade-long crisis over Iran’s nuclear programme. Obviously, critics at home and abroad have sought to derail the Rouhani administration’s efforts to negotiate a permanent settlement of the Iranian nuclear crisis with Western powers, especially Washington. There is a high possibility that the ongoing negotiations will be extended beyond the July deadline, as Iran and world powers enter the final stages of negotiating a longterm nuclear agreement, which would theoretically allow Tehran to retain a measure of domestic enrichment capability in return for an end to Western sanctions against Iran’s financial and hydrocarbon sectors. Nonetheless, one can’t deny that for the first time in decades, there is a real possibility of more normalised relations between Tehran and the West, potentially sparking a huge influx of Western investment and technology into the country. As the current head of the Iranian government, President Rouhani has managed to carefully navigate Iran’s multipolar domestic power structure. Emphasising regime stability and preservation, he has convinced leading conservatives to support his often contentious diplomatic overtures towards the West. Meanwhile, he
managed to attract the support of leading pragmatists and reformists by constantly emphasising his advocacy for greater socio-political freedom, economic revival, and political engagement with the wider world. In many ways, Rouhani represents one of the most consequential pragmatists in the opening decades of the 21st century. Far from emulating the Soviet Union’s President Mikhail Gorbachev, whose political reforms precipitated the collapse of the Soviet Union, and China’s Deng Xiaoping, who constantly pushed for economic liberalisation at the expense of political freedom, Rouhani is laying the foundations of an Iran that is economically dynamic, politically vibrant, and geopolitically powerful. The lion awakens Long dismissed as one of the weakest teams in this year’s World Cup, the Iranian football team, also known as Team Melli, had to overcome a pernicious combination of financial difficulties and administrative nightmares to prepare for the likes of Argentina. Due to Western sanctions, which prevented Tehran from collecting funds from international sponsors, Iran could barely organise a decent preparatory campaign ahead of the World Cup tournament. But against all odds, they eventually managed to win the respect of millions of fans across the world, cementing Team Melli’s reputation as one of the most powerful Asian teams in recent
history. One could argue that initial misperceptions vis-a-vis Team Melli somehow mirror the broader misunderstanding of Iran as a country, and its achievements in recent decades. The West has long sought to dismiss Iran as a rogue nation, with limited human capital and underdeveloped technological and scientific capabilities. Given Iran’s dependence on hydrocarbon exports, Western powers sought to change Iran’s strategic by imposing restrictions on Iran’s ability to conduct international trade and finance its domestic development. Without a question, the sanctions have been devastating, severely undermining Iran’s macroeconomic conditions as well as its access to basic necessities such as food and medicine. But a combination of resilience and increasing pragmatism has allowed Iran to not only emerge as a sporting powerhouse, especially in Asia, but, more importantly, as one of the most dynamic countries in the developing world. Today, Iran stands among leading countries in cuttingedge sciences such as stem cell research and nanotechnology. As the Middle East’s leading scientific power, Iran has managed to attain growing selfsufficiency in terms of space and nuclear technology, while leading Iranian universities have been producing among the best engineers in the world. After decades of rural development and pro-active developmental policies, Iran is among the leading Asian countries in terms of human development index, while boasting among the largest steel and automobile manufacturing bases in the developing world. Overall, the main strength of the Rouhani administration is its profound realisation of the necessity to launch a creative diplomatic approach to remove artificial political constraints, which have prevented the full flowering of the immense potential of the Iranian people and the efficient utilisation of the country’s immense hydrocarbon wealth. As we inch closer to a postsanctions Iran, we shouldn’t be surprised to hear more leading global financial institutions describing the country as one of the most promising economies of the 21st century - and perhaps the next China. —Al Jazeera
53
DAY With
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Ishaku Kigbu
19
Argentina Vs Switzerland:
Players To Watch
Mark Wants NFF To Restructure Football By Jonathan Nda-Isaiah, Abuja Senate President Senator David Mark has canvassed the need to restructure the entire football Teams (administration) in Nigeria to make them more purposeful and resultoriented henceforth. In a statement by his chief Press Secretary Paul Mumeh, he said “I think we really need to go back and see how we can restructure the entire football teams not just the super Eagles to make them result-oriented.” The Senate President who watched the
Keshi
match along with Senate Leader Victor Ndoma-Egba and Culture and Tourism Minister Edem Duke in his Apo official residence said: “I am sure when the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Aminu Maigari comes back from Brazil he will need to review the situation, identify the problems and explain to Nigerians what went wrong.” All the same he stated :”this is football. There has to be a winner and a looser. Unfortunately, our Super Eagles could not fly today ( yesterday). We were not lucky.”
Lionel Messi
Yesterday’s results • France 2-0 Nigeria • Germany 2-1 Algeria
Angel Di Maria
Today’s Matches • Argentina Vs Switzerland 5pm (Sao Paulo) • Belgium Vs USA 8pm (Salvador)
Ezequiel Lavezzi
Tomorrow’s Matches • Rest Day John Obi Mikel (1st L)and players of Nigeria react after losing 0-2 to France
About Sao Paulo • Population 11.2 million • Economy: São Paulo is considered the “financial capital of Brazil”, as it is the location for the headquarters of many major corporations and the country’s most renowned banks and financial institutions. São Paulo is Brazil’s highest GDP city and the 10th largest in the world
Keshi, Yobo Resign After France Defeat By ONJEWU DICKSON, Abuja
Stephen Keshi may jump to the offer to coach South Africa as the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is yet to renew his contract which terminated at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where the Super Eagles were defeated 0-2 by France yesterday. It is however, been speculated in some quarters that Keshi may have turned in his resignation letter.
Eagles’ Exit Painful – Keshi By ISHAKU KIGBU, Brazil
Head-To-Head Argentina Vs Switzerland • FIFA Ranking: Argentina 5, Switzerland 6 • Played 0 match, Goals for: Argentina 0, Switzerland 0
In a related development, Nigeria’s captain, Joseph Yobo yesterday announced his retirement after 100 caps for the Super Eagles. Paul Pogba headed in France’s first goal in the 79th minute and changed the tempo of the game which was before then dominated by the Eagles. France got its second goal through an own goal put in by Joseph Yobo.
Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi has described Nigeria’s exit from the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Brazil as painful. Speaking at the post match media conference after losing to France in the Round of 16 clash against France decided at the Estadio Nacional Stadium in Brasilia, Keshi who appeared downcast said he was optimistic he
would win the game and progress to the quarter final but the game suddenly changed against him. According to him it is a game and such things happen in football. “That is football for you. It is a game and it has happened I can’t change that. But the loss is painful. I never planned to lose this game but like I said that is football.” On the goal scored by Emmanuel Emenike in the first half but disallowed by the referee, Keshi said he will not
Josip Drmic
Eagles entered the match under the controversy of a dispute over bonus payments with the Nigeria Football Federation, but Stephen Keshi’s men played a full part in an entertaining goalless first half. Emmanuel Emenike thought he put Nigeria ahead, only to fall foul of a marginal offside call, while a stunning stop by Enyeama somehow prevented Pogba from volleying France in front.
Granit Xhaka
speak against the decision of the referee as his call is final. “Only the referee can tell why he disallowed the goal. I won’t talk about his call but there were a lot of his decisions that were questionable. You he decides what happens and I cannot change what has happened.” Keshi said his team played well and could have won the game had they converted the begging chances they got during the game.
Admir Mehmedi
54 sports
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Brazil Must Work Hard To Win The Trophy – Marcelo
Robben Set To Escape Punishment Over ‘Dive’ Arjen Robben will avoid retrospective punishment from Fifa after he admitted diving in their 2-1 World Cup win over Mexico. The 30-year-old said he did not cheat to win a decisive injurytime penalty but told Dutch TV: “In the first half I took a dive.” Netherlands officials have claimed his comments were misinterpreted. Today Delia Fisher, spokeswoman for world football’s governing body, said she was unaware of any punishment. “We ask players to play in the spirit of fair play,” she added. “It is up to the referees to manage the match in all areas and as part of the extensive preparations they are trained to identify simulations and issue cards to discourage this behaviour.” Fifa states it can “sanction those who violate the principles of fair play”.
Brazil defender Marcelo says his side learned how to suffer during their win over Chile in the World Cup knockout stages. The Selecao needed penalties to decide the game after it finished 1-1 and were fortunate not to concede when Mauricio Pinilla hit the crossbar in the dying seconds of extra time. And Marcelo, who scored during the shootout, told Sports Spectacular that to win
in such a dramatic manner was emotionally draining for everyone involved, though he was thankful to team-mate Julio Cesar, who saved two of Chile’s spot kicks. “To win the World Cup, you have to know how to suffer,” he said. “We learned to suffer. Julio Cesar had to save us. He was [one of the] most nervous, but then he was solid. We are now moving
on to be champions. “Emotionally, everyone was dead. It was a test that we passed. I looked at the crowd, there were people screaming and crying. Winning was a joy. Brazil will face Colombia in the quarter finals, a side who have won every game at the World Cup so far and in James Rodriguez, boast the top scorer and one of the stars of the tournament.
That section of article 57 of Fifa’s regulations comes into play after Robben admitted his guilt. Meanwhile, article 77 gives Fifa’s disciplinary committee responsibility for “sanctioning serious infringements which have escaped the match officials’ attention” and “rectifying obvious errors in the referee’s disciplinary decisions”. In February, Fifa president Sepp Blatter called for retrospective action on players who dive, fake injuries and time waste. He wrote in the organisation’s monthly magazine: “Video evidence can be used for serious breaches of the principle of fair play such as brawling, spitting at opponents, verbal insults and racist slurs, or for incorrectly awarded red or yellow cards. In cases such as these we must make use of the avenues already open to us and intervene after the event if necessary. Robben was fouled for the decisive penalty in injury time
Uruguay President Mujica Insults FIFA Over Suarez
Uruguay’s President Jose Mujica has called football’s world governing body Fifa “a bunch of old sons of bitches” over Luis Suarez’s four-month ban. The 79-year-old described the punishment, which also included a suspension for nine international matches, as a “fascist ban”. Suarez received the harshest sanction in World Cup history for biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini. Mujica is renowned for his plain-speaking manner. He made the comments to state TV at a reception for the Uruguay team,
following their elimination from the World Cup last 16 by Colombia. The president covered his mouth to feign shock at what he had said, but told journalists to “publish it” when asked if he wanted to rectify his remarks. Mujica admitted that Suarez deserved to be disciplined, but said his suspension was too harsh. “They could have punished him, but not given him this fascist ban,” he said. The former leftist guerrilla had previously said Suarez was being punished by Fifa because of his humble background.
Mourinho
of the day
➔ France coach Didier Deschamps was able to talk his team who beat Nigeria 2-0 in the dying minutes
Suarez after the bite
He also denounced the ban in his weekly radio address as an “eternal shame” in the history of the World Cup.
I Want Upsets At World Cup – Mourinho Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho says he would love to see an underdog reach the semi-finals of the World Cup. The Portuguese named Brazil, Argentina, Germany and Netherlands as his favourites for the
Winner
trophy, but is eager to see an unfancied side like quarter-finalists Costa Rica upset the odds in South America. “Semi-finals between Brazil, Argentina, Germany and Netherlands could be perfectly normal.”
Oscar Tabarez’s side suffered a 2-0 defeat in their last-16 tie against Colombia after being forced to do without their star
striker because of the ban. Uruguay’s football federation said it would appeal against Fifa’s punishment.
Karagounis Ends Greece Career Greece captain Giorgos Karagounis has retired from international football following his country’s elimination from the 2014 Fifa World Cup. The 37-year-old midfielder announced his decision after playing the whole match as Greece lost on penalties in the last-16 tie against Costa Rica. “We wanted to stay in Brazil another week or even longer
but you can’t change it now.” Karagounis made his international debut in 1999 and amassed a record 139 caps for his country, scoring 10 goals in the process. He helped Greece win Euro 2004 and their progress in Brazil meant they reached the second round of the World Cup for the first time in their history. Page edited by Onjewu Dickson
LOSer of the day
➔ Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi’s boys lost several chances at goal and fell to France-
sports 55
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Eagles To Leave Brazil Within 24 Hours Of Elimination By ISHAKU KIGBU, Brazil
Nigerian boxer in action at London 2012 Olympics
2014 Commonwealth: Boxers Commend NSC On Cuba Training Tour By SALIFU USMAN, Abuja
Team Nigerian boxers to the forthcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland have commended the National Sports Commission (NSC) for the proposed training tour of Cuba for athletes. The team captain, Efetobor Apochi, who spoke on behalf of other boxers, said the Cuba’s training tour would help the athletes to improve. “Its been long we went to Cuba for training tour and now we are going to
Cuba for training tour; this is a big chance and opportunity for every boxer to step-up to the next level. “Training in Nigeria all the time would not help because we have not gotten the equipment to facilitate the boxing techniques, skills and all that. “All we do is strengthcondition, strengthcondition; we need to build the skills because in developed countries what they do is to develop the skills of boxing. “Boxing is not all
power, power, power; it’s a noble act of self defence and there is this thing AIBA wants to see, not coming to kill or fight somebody. I am happy we are going to Cuba; it’s a big deal for us,’’ Apochi said. The mexico base boxer, assured that his knowledge of the Cuban and Mexican styles of boxing would propel the country at the Games. “I have been in Mexico for about one year now; I just came into Nigeria for the Commonwealth Games and I box World Series
Boxing (WSB) and most of my team mates are from Cuba. “I know their training programme; I know the Cuban style and I know how they box. I know most things about them. Cuba is a home of boxing and its going to help the boxers to develop big, big, big,’’ he added. The boxers are expected to depart for the Cuba training tour on Today and they would move from Cuba to Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games starting on July 23 and end on Aug. 3.
Following their elimination from the FIFA World Cup at the second round by France yesterday, the Super Eagles of Nigeria has within 24 hours to jet out of Brazil, according to FIFA regulations. Upon qualification and arrival, the team was taken over by FIFA in the areas of accommodation, feeding, flights and other logistics but once out of the competition before the semi finals, they seize to be FIFA
property. The Nigeria Football Federation, also confirmed yesterday that the team must leave their hotel and Brazil within 24 hours of exiting from the tournament. The federation president, Aminu Maigari after a two– goal defeat by France in Brasilia which brought about the cruel end to Eagles’ adventure in Brazil said. “The players were brilliant. They showed heart and commitment and deserve the praise of Nigerians.”
Scholes Wants Kroos At Man United Paul Scholes has hailed Bayern Munich and Germany playmaker Toni Kroos, adding that he “wished” Manchester United had signed him. Louis van Gaal named the 24-year-old among his desired transfer targets ahead of confirmation of his appointment at Old Trafford, however Kroos has since insisted a move is not in the offing. Scholes previously called on Van Gaal to make Kroos his first signing as United manager and has now praised his abilities again after the
24-year-old’s performances for Germany at the World Cup. “I love watching Toni Kroos. I think he’s brilliant,” Scholes wrote in his blog for Paddy Power. “I love the way he controls the ball and controls games. He can really play a pass and has superb vision. Kroos is capable of scoring goals too, from outside the box on either foot. “I just wish Manchester United had signed him. Yes, it is good to see United bringing in new players.”
Fry To Stand Down As Premier League Chairman Premier League chairman Anthony Fry is to stand down from his role as he continues his recovery from a stroke. Fry took the job in June 2013 but was taken ill in March this year and announced on Monday that he would step aside
in order to concentrate on his health. “As is now well known, I suffered a stroke on 4 March this year,” he said in a statement on the Premier League’s official website. “I have been very fortunate and I am
delighted to be making significant progress with my recovery. On the advice of my doctors, however, I realise that I need to scale back my business activities. “It is with regret, therefore, that I have decided to step down from
my position as chairman of the Premier League which... demands more commitment than I am able to give currently. “It would not be fair to the Premier League, nor its member Clubs, not to be able to continue to give that commitment.”
Kroos
Joseph Yobo Announces Nigeria Retirement
Yobo
Nigeria captain Joseph Yobohas announced his retirement from the national side after the Super Eagles fell 2-0 to France in the second round of the World Cup. The 33-year-old became the first Nigerian to play 100 international matches but capped it with an own goal in added time against Les Bleus. He follows in the footsteps of Nwankwo Kanu who announced his retirement after the 2010 World Cup. “It was a bitter-sweet moment for me but I think
it is time to focus on my family,” Yobo told reporters. “It has been a long road.” Yobo made his debut with the Super Eagles in 2001 but became a mainstay of the team during the 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan. He played at three World Cups and won the Africa Cup of Nations as captain last year. “We’ve won the Africa Nations Cup and we came here and were not disgraced,” said the Fenerbahce man. “I never thought that I’d be here because I missed the last six games of the season through injury.”
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01.07.14 www.leadership.ng
Comrade Timi Frank
Tuesday Column:
T
The great leaders who nursed and nurtured the idea have not lost their vision
he All Progressives Congress (APC) proved pundits wrong during its last national convention. Those who thought that nothing good can come out of the merger of political parties in our country now need to re-examine their illusion. The APC has, through its successful election of national officers, shown that it is not only a national party but transcends tribe or religion. The interim National Executive of the party has gracefully bowed out for the first elected National Executive Committee to step in. Since the party was born just a year ago, it has been growing victorious and successful by the day. The gates of hell cannot prevail against it because the great leaders who nursed and nurtured the idea have not lost their vision. Rather they have kept injecting new ideas that keep the flames of the party burning brightly. From Lagos to Rivers, Edo to Kano, Osun to Zamfara, Nasarawa to Ekiti (irrespective of the recent electoral heist in Ekiti State), Ogun to Yobe, Borno to Kwara, Sokoto to Adamawa, it is all revolutionary reforms. Not a nebulous “Transformation Agenda” on billboards, in television and radio jingles. The people have seen change and they will yet see more light. To demonstrate their unflagging commitment to a “nation that achieves its full potential and promise” and a resoluteness to surmount all obstacles and “work towards a nation that is economically and socially vibrant, peaceful, just and secure”, the national leaders of the APC and the over 6,000 delegates from across the country had defied the downpour and stayed put at the Eagle Square until the election of its NEC members was successfully concluded. This dutiful action of the party is no doubt commitment personified and worthy of emulation. A leader is the man who leads at the battlefront and not the man who gives excuses why he cannot visit a troubled part of his domain. The membership of the new NEC of the APC as presently com-
— John Lennon
FOR GOD AND COUNTRY
No. 2,214
TUESdAy
N150
APC: A Party Of Example 08070888888 (text only)
posed is all square pegs in square holes. They all come with wide political and professional experience that would help galvanize a solid party for a better Nigeria. One of the national leaders of the APC and former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, underscored these obvious facts when he stated at the convention thus: “That we pulled this merger off is something beyond punditry. It was a merger destined to fail, yet it survived. It was no easy task, but it was a task that needed to be done. This party, the APC, is here to stay. We have provided Nigerians with a credible alternative at a time that it is most needed. Therefore, we cannot afford to fail or falter. Our eyes are set on a goal bigger than all of us and our destination is a Nigeria where good governance subsists and millions of our people are empowered.” For his part, another national leader of the party and former head of state, General Muhammadu Buhari, lamented the obvious ineptitude, weakness and lack of capacity to solve the problems bedevilling our nation by President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. Buhari specifically denounced a situation where the government of Jonathan has failed woefully to secure the lives of Nigerians due to largescale corruption and unbridled impunity. He assured that, with the APC, the security and the welfare of the people would be topmost priority. “What was the state of infrastructure in the country in 1999 and the situation today? We have taken all the pains and we remain resolved to build this country. This country will not be completely destroyed,” Buhari said. “We came together in order to stop the impunity that has reversed the progress this country has made so far. This convention is strategic to the development of the APC. All those who will emerge should know that they have the trust of Nigerians.” In his remarks, former vice president Alhaji Atiku Abubakar insisted that Nigerians now have the
necessary wherewithal to change a government that is corrupt, weak, inept, and lacks solution to the problems of the country. Atiku said: “You have got every reason to change this government that has no clue to the problems of this country. This government has no business being in office after 2015. I will be at the forefront of ensuring that this change happens.” The PDP and other mushroom parties now in an unholy alliance with it must learn from the example of the APC. This is a party which nobody gave any chance of survival except the leadership and its massive supporters across the country who felt it was time for needed change. The successful membership registration nationwide, the congresses to elect the delegates to the national convention and the superlative convention and successful election of national officers have exposed the charade of the PDP all these years. This is why the Presidency and the PDP had no choice but to congratulate the APC on such maverick enterprise that has continued to gladden the hearts of Nigerians. The special adviser to the president on political matters, Prof. Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali, in a statement specifically noted that the APC’s convention was successful. The party to salvage Nigeria has come. There is no gainsaying the fact. The PDP has to learn from the sterling example of the APC because he who does not learn is not wise. The brand new national chairman of the APC, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, said this much in his acceptance speech at the Eagle Square. The PDP, he said, is on its way out of power for good. He noted that the APC has so much to do to right the wrongs of the past 15 years of PDP’s misrule. He was quick to reassure Nigerians: “Your wait is over. Your prayers have not been in vain. Help is on the way. The APC is here!” Now that the long-awaited alternative political platform has come, it behoves on progressive Nigerians to support it to truly transform
timifrank@leadership.ng
our political landscape, redeem its image, kill corruption and ensure that all our social, health and economic infrastructure are revamped and made functional. It is only then that the blight of unemployment, dead industries, unnecessary waste of human capital and uninterrupted power supply will give way to sanity in the oil sector, restoration of agriculture, housing for all, free relevant quality education, free quality comprehensive healthcare, social welfare for the vulnerable, roads and power infrastructure, better management of our abundant natural resources, strengthened peace, security and foreign policy. I wish to enjoin all esteemed members of the party to eschew rivalries occasioned by contest for positions or any other form of grievance as we face the great task ahead. All aggrieved members, if any, must heed the call of our national chairman to close ranks with the leadership and move the party forward as members of the same family. And we must never lose sight of the fact that the collective destiny of the Nigerian people is far more important than our individual or group interests, ambitions or grievances.” APC is the new party for a new Nigeria. APC is the party of example!
gHANA MUST go Nigeria knocked out of world Cup — News
Let’s return to Sambisa!
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