14th oct 2014 by Newtelegraphonline

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Vol. 1 No. 238

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FG issues permits for fuel importation

lPPPRA submits fourth quarter allocation to minister for approval Adeola Yusuf

he Federal Government has approved the issuance of permits to fuel importers to bring in 600,000 metric

tonnes of petrol to augment supply to avert a looming scarcity which could result from delay in the approval of the fourth quarter’s allocation. The third quarter al-

location had expired on September 30 while the document for the fourth quarter is on the table of the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, waiting

for her approval. New Telegraph gathered that companies that benefited from the supplementary allocations are Oando, Total, Conoil, Folawiyo Oil and Gas, Forte

Oil, Techno Oil, NIPCO and Masters Energy. Others are Mobil Nigeria Plc as well as Aiteo. “The supplementary allocation will last till OcCONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Alison-Madueke

Buhari: Nigeria is drifting lKnocks President Jonathan for inefficiency, lack of focus lAtiku unveils economic plan for the country }5

Quick Read Editorial The internal displacement crisis }19 TB Joshua, Lagos official clash over inquest }5

Row over death of Alamieyeseigha’s son in Dubai }4

L-R: Group Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Mr. Obinna Nwosu; Group Managing Director, Mr. Herbert Wigwe; Chairman, Board of Directors, Mr. Gbenga Oyebode and Company Secretary, Mr. Sunday Ekwochi, at the bank’s Extra Ordinary General Meeting in Lagos...yesterday.

Four more Chibok girls escape from Boko Haram lJonathan hopeful on end of terrorism lCameroon vows to wipe out sect Anule Emmanuel Abuja

nother four of the 276 schoolgirls kidnapped

in April by Boko Haram from Chibok, Borno State, have escaped, raising hopes for the young prisoners still held captive. The free girls, all be-

tween the ages 16 and 18, escaped with the help of a teenage boy prisoner, who managed to get them out of the camp, according to a report yesterday in New York Post.

The girls, guided by the setting sun, walked for three weeks and finally arrived in a village, starving and traumatised. British-Australian negotiator, Stephen Davis,

who had tried to bargain with the extremist Islamic group for the schoolgirls’ freedom broke the news of the girls’ escape. With the escape of the CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

News

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

Nigeria is drifting, says Buhari Biodun Oyeleye, Johnchuks Onuanyim and Adeolu Adeyemo

ormer Head of State and a presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Major General Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday lamented the state of the nation, saying Nigeria is drifting because it is not being efficiently managed. He, however, promised to redeem the situation if he is elected this time around by ensuring efficient management of the country’s affairs. Buhari spoke in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, during a visit to the Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, to inform him of his decision to vie for the party’s presidential ticket. Also yesterday, another contender for the party’s ticket, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, unfolded his manifesto in which he listed employment and wealth creation as key policy areas of his administration, if elected. Buhari, while fielding questions from reporters after his consultation with Ahmed, defended his decision to seek the party’s ticket again after failing to win in three previous elections. According to him, his stand that the nation is drifting tallies with the position of the APC, hence his decision to seek the party’s ticket to be able to implement its manifesto. He said: “I contested three times and I lost three times and I ended up in Supreme Court three times. We thank God the constitution did not limit how many times you can contest at which ever stage once you are 18 years and above and it did not put age limit as well. “I have tried ruling this country before in a different system and from 1999 till now, I am sure you know what happened or what has been happening. I believe what Nigeria needs now is to be secured and be efficiently managed. This is the APC’s stand and I will like to use the opportunity through my party and the system to secure and efficiently manage Nigeria. Of course Nigeria is not well managed, you know it.” Asked about his stand on the controversial issue of consensus candidate, the former military ruler said it was not actually a bad idea but agreed that the decision on whether the APC would use it in selecting its presidential candidate or not depends on party members.

“It is up to the party and up to the people. We need a fair play ground for everybody. Let Nigerians be given the impression and let them believe that we will do what is necessary. All these efforts to salvage the nation are for them and for the country. If there is a consensus agreement; it is not forced on the people, although it is good and it will save time and resources. But if even the party insists that whatever zone that wants to lead should present themselves, let the people decide, it is well and good. The system allows it,” he added. Buhari applauded the decision of Ahmed’s predecessor, Senator Bukola Saraki, to shelve his presidential ambition, saying it is an indication that the former governor is abreast of the Nigerian situation. “I did not beg him to leave it for me. But it is his

own decision, he has been a governor here twice, he knows the politics of the country. He is known throughout the country. His father worked extremely hard and virtually established a dynasty, voluntarily supported by the people of the state,” he stated. Earlier, Buhari had told Ahmed that he was in the state on the final round of a nationwide consultation on his aspiration. He later went into a closed-door meeting with the governor and his aides. Buhari was also in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, to inform the Governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, about his ambition. A statement by Aregbesola’s spokesman, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, quoted him as saying the governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti states had given an indication how the 2015

elections would turn out. He said he was in the state to specially invite the governor to his formal declaration to contest for the presidency. He said: “Ekiti and Osun gave us the latest interpretation of what is ahead of us in 2015 and all Nigerians must be totally aware that it is not going to be very easy in the next five months. “For the next five months, we are on the road again and we are here to ask for your understanding and support. Nigerians want change and they have to prepare and be ready to do exactly what Osun people have done, that’s the only way out.” Responding, Aregbesola urged Nigerians to be vigilant in 2015 just like they did in Osun to ensure that their votes count. However, ahead of the presidential primaries of

the party, slated for December 2, Atiku yesterday gave an insight into manifesto with a pledge to focus on job and wealth creation. To actualise his job creation policy, he has promised to grant generous tax waivers to investors in order to stimulate increase in the flow of Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) to the country. He said in Abuja that his government would also tackle frontally, the twin issues of inefficiency in power supply and improve on the level of infrastructure. Atiku, at an interactive session with reporters, said he would enthrone a realistic inclusive growth if elected the president. Describing the growth that presently obtained in the country as fluke that only places Nigeria’s wealth in the hand of a few while the masses dwell in

poverty, Atiku said only realistic job creation could translate to real growth. According to him, the private sector will be allowed to drive the economy while the government creates the enabling environment. Asked whether he would prune down the number of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), if elected, he said: “You don’t have to reduce the MDAs to create employment. MDAs are good but mostly they are all government funded. Right now, our revenue is on decline, before we are exporting 2.3 million barrels of oil a day but today we are doing 1.8 million and the price is falling. As I said to you, you can’t rely on MDAs to create employment; but if you stimulate the private sector, get DFI and give them incentives, CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

L-R: Deputy Director, Banking and Payments System Department, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Iyari Omebere; Group Managing Director, UBA Plc, Mr. Phillips Oduoza and Regional Manager, Anglophone West Africa, MoneyGram, Mrs. Kemi Okusanya, at the launch of Nigeria’s first outbound money transfer service by UBA in Lagos... yesterday.

I’m still interested in House speakership –Adeola-Akande Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

ajority Leader of the House of Representatives, Mrs Mulikat Adeola-Akande, yesterday said she is still interested in becoming the Speaker of the House if reelected in 2015. Adeola-Akande, who spoke after picking her nomination form at the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), also said the party will reclaim most of the states it lost to the op-

position All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2011. The lawmaker representing Oyo/Ogbomoso North/South Federal Constituency contested against the incumbent Speaker, Aminu Tamuwal, in 2011. She expressed the hope that the speakership will be zoned to South-West in the next dispensation. “PDP suffered major setbacks in the last election in the South-West, but now the effort we are making is apparent. As you can see, we won in Ekiti State and that means all the mem-

bers will be coming from PDP in 2015. Oyo State; we don’t have a governor, we have five members from there and the number is going to double now. In Ogun State also, we didn’t have but a lot of members have decamped and they are coming back. We have Ondo State as well. “Governor Mimiko has joined PDP, so automatically, all the seven members from Ondo will become PDP. So, I think the so-called losses are now gains for us,” she added. Also, the Niger State PDP said it has settled all

the internal grievances within its fold that nearly cost the party last month’s senatorial by-election. Abubakar Suleiman Mokwa, who led the “Ever Green Association” to purchase PDP governorship nomination form for Umar Mohammed Nasko, Chief of Staff to Governor of Niger State to contest in 2015, said the people who worked against the party during the election are members of the party. Suleiman disclosed that the decision to urge Nasko to contest the governorship was to move beyond

the axiom that youths are leaders of tomorrow. He described Nasko as a good administrator and politician that has requisite experience and love for the people. Three governorship aspirants have so far collected PDP nomination forms since the party started sale of forms last Friday. They include Chairman, House of Representatives on Security, Mohammed Bello Matawalle for Zamfara State; Governor Ramalan Yero of Kaduna State and Nasko for Niger State.

News

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Controversy over death of Alamieyeseigha’s son in Dubai lHe was murdered, says father lPolice suspect suicide lJonathan commiserates with family Isioma Madike and Anule Emmanuel

ormer Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Diepriye Alamieyeseigha, has lost one of his sons, Oyamuyefa, in Dubai, the United Arab Emirate. Oyamuyefa was said to have been found dead by the stairway of his father’s house in the UAE commercial capital on Saturday. However, the cause of his death has stirred a controversy as his father claimed he was murdered while the police are suspecting suicide. Alamieyeseigha, reacting to the death, said: “He was killed in Dubai.” “The deceased might have committed a suicide,” agency news quoted police source as saying. According to the source, the police in Dubai are claiming that they found

Oyamuyefa’s body on a street within the city, searched him and found his identify card. They reportedly used the identification card to trace his house and later discovered that he came from “a big family,” the source added. According to the information, “the policemen later came back to tell

members of Alamieyeseigha’s family that the report of an autopsy conducted on the deceased revealed that he committed suicide.” The ex-governor, who has reportedly rejected the police suicide theory, is believed to have travelled to Dubai to ferry the remains of the deceased home. He is said to have left Nigeria for Dubai yester-

day alongside his first son, Tonbra. Meanwhile, President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed sadness over the death of Oyamuyefa. Jonathan, in a statement by his media aide, Dr. Reuben Abati, extended heartfelt condolences to Alamieyeseigha and his entire family on the untimely loss of their son.

Abati said the president and the First Lady, Patience, “shared their pain and grief over the death of Oyamuyefa in circumstances that are still unclear.” Jonathan assured the former governor and his family of the full support of the Federal Government as they strive to unravel the true circumstances of the young man’s death.

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L-R: Senator Aisha Al Hassan; All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential aspirant, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Director General, Atiku Campaign Office, Dr. Babalola Borishade, at the presentation of the former vice-president’s manifesto in Abuja...yesterday

PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

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AEROCONTRACTORS LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 06:50; 13:30; 16:30; 19:45 (SAT/SUN) 12:30; 16:45 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 07:30; 13:00; 19:00 (SAT) 12:30 (SUN) 15:30

OVERLAND AIRWAYS LAGOS-ILORIN (MON-FRI) 07:15 LAGOS-IBADAN (MON-FRI) 7:00 IBADAN-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 08:00 IBADAN-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 16:30 ILORIN –ABUJA (MON-FRI) 08:30 ILORIN –LAGOS (MON-FRI) 17:00 ABUJA-ASABA (MON-FRI) 10:00 ASABA-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 14:15 ASABA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 11:30 LAGOS-ASABA (MON-FRI) 13:00 ABUJA-ILORIN 16:00 ABUJA-IBADAN 15:00

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FIRST NATION AIRWAYS LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 06.50; 09:30; 11:45; 16:00 (SAT) 06:50; 11:45 (SUN) 11:45; 16:00 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 09:00; 11:30; 13:40;18:30 (SAT) 09:00; 13:40 (SUN) 13:40; 18:30 LAGOS-PORT-HARCOURT (MON-FRI) 14:45 (SAT) 16:15 (SUN) 14:45 PORT-HARCOURT-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 16:50 (SAT) 18:20 (SUN) 16:50

MEDVIEW AIRLINES LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 07:00; 08:50; 12:00; 15:30 (SAT) 10:00; 15:00 (SUN) 17:30; 18:30 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 09:00; 14:00, 15:00; 18:30

TODAY’S WEATHER FORECAST LAGOS

FLIGHT SCHEDULE

PPPRA submits fourth quarter allocation CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

tober ending. If we have to wait for the fourth quarter (allocation), this could have created scarcity of products,” a source at the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulating Agency (PPPRA) said yesterday. Spokesperson for the agency, Mr. Lanre Oladele, could not be reached on the phone for comment but the source said some of the oil marketers got licence to import between 45, 000 tonnes and 90, 000 tonnes of petro. “NIPCO was given 90, 000 tonnes; Oando also 90, 000 tonnes; Aiteo too has 90,000 tonnes and Folawiyo also has 90, 000 tonnes. But companies like Obat and Rainoil have 45, 000 tonnes each. “Generally, this supple-

mentary allocation is to beef up gap in the delayed fourth quarter allocation,” the source added. New Telegraph learnt that the Executive Secretary of the PPPRA, Mr. Farouk Ahmed, took the prepared fourth quarters allocation to the minister last Thursday but he had to come back on Friday as he did not meet her at the NNPC headquarters office. He has started to defend and provide explanation to the minister on ‘who gets what’ in the allocation. “This discussion, which could not be concluded on Friday has been shifted to Monday (yesterday). Hopefully, the allocation should be approved this week or latest before the end of October when the supplementary third quarters allocation is expected to

lapse,” the source stated. The Federal Government had earlier slashed the number of companies licensed to import petrol in the third quarter to 27 from 40 in the previous three months. The 27 oil companies were allocated fuel import rights by PPPRA, the lists had shown. These companies are expected to import about 1.7 million tonnes for third quarter, down from 1.85 million tonnes in the second quarter. Nigeria imports petrol through two state-owned authorities – PPPRA and the Pipelines and Product Marketing Company (PPMC). The PPPRA allocations vary quarter-on-quarter while the PPMC typically brings in about 1.4 mil-

lion tonnes per quarter through crude-for-product swap agreements with traders, market sources said. Total Nigerian petrol imports are expected to be close to 3.1 million tonnes. The country is chronically short of oil products, particularly petrol, due to a long period of underinvestment in its domestic refineries. MRS Oil Nigeria was absent from the list, after being included in the second quarter, but some returnees were Oando, Total, Conoil, Folawiyo Oil and Gas, Forte Oil, Techno Oil, NIPCO and Masters Energy. Mobil Nigeria PLC, ExxonMobil’s local arm, was listed among the winners with larger volumes as well as Aiteo.

ARIK AIR LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 07:00; 08:00; 09:00; 11:00 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 (SAT) 07:00; 09:00; 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 (SUN) 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 07:00; 09:00; 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00; 20:00 (SAT) 07:00; 09:00; 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 (SUN) 09:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 LAGOS-PORT-HARCOURT (MON-FRI) 07:00; 09:30; 11:00; 13:30; 15:00; 17:30 (SAT) 07:00; 11:00; 15:00 (SUN) 09:30; 11:00; 13:30; 15:00; 17:30 PORT-HARCOURT-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 07:30; 09:00; 11:30; 13:00; 15:30; 17:00 (SAT) 07:30; 11:30; 09:00; 13:00; 17:00 (SUN) 11:30; 13:00; 15:30; 17:00 ABUJA-PORT-HARCOURT (MON-FRI) 06:45; 10:10; 13:30; 16:50 (SAT/SUN) 06:45; 10:10; 13:30 PORT-HARCOURT-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 08:30; 11:50; 15:10; 18:30 (SAT/SUN) 08:30; 11:50; 15:10

News

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

N’Assembly considers constitution review report Chukwu David and Philip Nyam Abuja

he debate on the report of the National Assembly Constitution Review Committee will top agenda today as the Senate resumes plenary after two weeks Sallah and Independence break. The Senate will also look at the report of the Conference Committee on the discrimination against persons with disabilities and that of Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters on Cybercrime, which was presented before the break. The Deputy President of the Senate and Chairman, Senate Committee on Constitution Review, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, had on Wednesday June 5, 2013 presented the report of the Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). The detailed report of the committee, which was signed by 49 senators, contained results of retreats and outcome of opinion polls conducted in the course of the review process. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives will today continue consideration of the report on the amendment of the Electoral Act, No. 6, 2010 to ensure a level playing field for all participants in the electoral process. The amendment will also ensure a more transparent process of conduct-

ing elections in Nigeria. Consideration of the report was adjourned on September 30 after the lawmakers could not agree on the clause seeking to grant the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) absolute powers to request for deployment of troops during elections. The notice paper of the House for October 13 to 17 obtained by New Telegraph indicates that on resumption today, the House will continue and complete work on the Electoral Act amendment. New Telegraph, however, gathered that the consideration of the report may not be hitch free as the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) legislators will be up against their All Progressives Congress(APC) counterpart over the deployment of military clause. While the APC lawmakers are rooting for empowering INEC to be the only body that can call for deployment of troops to troubled areas during elections, the PDP legislators are arguing that the clause will whittle down the constitutional powers of president on military deployment. The House joint committee on aids, loans and debt management and finance is to present its report on the request by President Jonathan to borrow $1 billion to tackle security challenges in the country. The request was referred to the committee on July 17 while the committee had scheduled a pub-

Atiku pledges to salvage situation, unveils manifesto CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

they will come create the jobs 10 times what the MDAs would have.” On his plan for the nation’s refineries, Atiku said the mafias in the oil and gas sector must be dismantled for efficiency to be restored in the sector. Atiku also said no presidential aspirant of the party would emerge by consensus. Atiku, who fielded questions from journalists in Abuja after presenting his draft policy position on consensus, stated that all the organs of APC had ruled out consensus candidate for the party. Also yesterday, he picked the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms of the party after paying the mandatory N27.5 million. Atiku, in company with the Director General of his campaign organisation,

Dr. Babalola Borishade, called for a level playing field for all the presidential aspirants. He said: “Anybody who believes he has a democratic right to exercise should be given that opportunity to exercise that right. It is left to the members of this party and the Nigerian public to make a decision. I don’t think it is the responsibility of any one of us as an individual or group to decide for this party or its membership for the people of this country. “Yes, as leaders, we have a responsibility to guide those coming behind, but the guidance should be based on these firmly rooted democratic principles.” In his remarks, APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, said the prayer of the party and its members was that God would give them the man to change Nigeria.

lic hearing on the matter on September 30, which could not hold due to absence of invited stakeholders including the Chief of Defence staff, Air Marshal Alex Badeh. Also, the House is expected to receive the conference report on a bill for an act to further alter the provisions of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The House ad hoc committee had altered 71 sections of the 1999 Constitution, which it voted on and consequently set up a conference committee to meet with the Senate to reconcile the differences

in their proposed amendments. Some of the issues that the House was to harmonise with the Senate at the conference committee include financial and administrative autonomy for local government councils, financial independence for the state houses of assembly, and removal of immunity among others. On the part of the House of Representatives, the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, who is also the Chairman, Ad Hoc Committee on Constitution Review, had announced that the two chambers had harmonised their dif-

ferences on the proposed amendments. He said: “The harmonised conference report is ready and we shall begin voting after the Sallah break. We will take a date after resumption to vote to pass the report. Please, all members should be aware of this and come prepared for the voting when we resume.” The House had earlier passed 77 new clauses to the constitution, while the Senate passed its own recommendations as well. Under Section 9 of the constitution, two-thirds of all members of each arm of the National Assembly

is required to vote to endorse a proposal before it can pass an amendment to the constitution. This implies that 240 out of the 360 members of the House of Representatives must endorse every proposal before it can be included in the new constitution. Similarly, 73 out of 109 senators must vote to endorse all new proposals to the constitution. In addition, 24 out of the 36 state Houses of Assembly must also approve the amendments passed by the National Assembly as the final phase of the amendment process.

L-R: Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Valentine Ntom-Chukwu; Governor Seriake Dickson and Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri, shortly after attending the 2014/2015 Legal Year thanksgiving service in Yenagoa...yesterday.

Synagogue: TB Joshua kicks as coroner visits crashed site October 16 Akeem Nafiu

he coroner appointed by the Lagos State Government to unveil the cause of the last month’s building collapse at the Synagogue Church of All Nations, Magistrate Oyetade Komolafe, yesterday resolved to visit the site on October 16. The magistrate said this yesterday at the Ikeja High Court, venue of the inaugural sitting of the inquest into the cause of the collapsed building. Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola had set up the coroner to unravel the circumstances under which the building, located within the premises of the Synagogue Church at Ikotun Egbe, a Lagos suburb, collapsed on Septem-

ber 12. Lead Counsel to the Synagogue Church of All Nations, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) had earlier urged the court to postpone the visit to October 24 when the court would commence hearing on the matter. Specifically, Fagbemi argued that the October 16 fixed by the magistrate may not be feasible, urging the coroner to shift the date forward so as to enable parties to get their acts together, especially as the substantive part of the matter involved frontloading of the CCTV footage of the incident. Fagbemi said since the issues involved were multi-dimensional, it would be better for all the parties to prepare their evidence and frontload their depositions before a visit

was paid to the crashed site by the court. But his argument could not sway the coroner’s decision as Magistrate Komolafe said such visit was imperative to give a clear picture of the incident. Consequently, the magistrate asked parties to assemble at the court’s premises by 8.30a.m. on October 16 from where they will move to the crashed site by 9a.m. Besides, the magistrate urged the church to make the CCTV footage of the incident available. Earlier, there were arguments by lawyers as to when the court should commence taking evidence from witnesses on the incident. A lawyer representing Lagos Government, Akingbolahan Adeniran, assured the coroner that

the state would do its best to frontload all its depositions on time. But Chukwu Agu, who stood in for the police, urged the court not to sacrifice justice on the altar of expediency as he needed more time to prepare his witnesses. Also, Fagbemi told the court that his key witnesses from South Africa would need at least two weeks to prepare his evidence. He then suggested that proceedings should commence fully on October 24. In her ruling, Magistrate Komolafe said: “I consider the 14 days but if we have witnesses that are ready and we have their papers in court, we will start. The court is only taking evidence to unravel the mystery surrounding the incident.”

News

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Court to try Ozekhome’s kidnappers secretly Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

he Federal High Court sitting in Abuja yesterday ruled that the suspected kidnappers of Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN) would be tried in secret. Kelvin Oniarah Eziegbe, Frank Auekor and Michael Omonigho are facing trial for kidnapping Ozekhome on August 23, 2013. The trial judge, Justice Adeniyi Ademola, hinged the decision on ground that the witnesses, some of whom are security operatives, needed to be protected. The court held that only the suspects, their lawyers, the prosecutor and accredited journal-

ists will be allowed to be present during the trial. The judge also refused the suspects’ request for bail, instead he granted an application for accelerated hearing to pay for the refusal of the suspects’ bail application. He, however, adjourned the trial to November 13 and 14. The suspects are charged with a 14-count wherein they were accused of committing terrorism, murder, hostage taking and other sundry offences all punishable under the Terrorism Prevention Act 2011. Count 1 of the charge reads: “That you Kelvin Oniarah Eziegbe, Frank Azuekor and others at large on or about August 23, 2013 you commit an

act of terrorism to wit: kidnapped Mike Ozekhome (SAN) at Iruekpen, on his way to Iviukwe, Agenebode and shot and killed four policemen, namely Paul Sunday Ajaka (ASP), Sunday Ewanshita (Insp.), Michael Akpada (Insp.) and Balary Kong (Insp.) and you demanded and compelled him to pay a ransom of N40 million which were paid to you in US dollars before you released Mike Ozekhome (SAN) and you thereby committed an offence punishable under section 1(2)(f) and Terrorism Prevention Act, 2011 as amended.” They were also charged with conspiracy to commit terrorist act to wit: kidnapping of persons, accessory to an

act of terrorism, inciting persons to commit act of terrorism, recruitment, escape and abetting escape, and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 17 of Terrorism Prevention Act 2011 as amended. The offences were committed between 2010 and 2013. Count two charges the suspects with murder of policemen, an offence punishable under section 17 of Terrorism Prevention Act 2011 as amended. All the suspects had pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to them. Subsequently, the oral application made by their counsel, Bala Dakum, to secure bail

L-R: President, Block Moulders Association (South-West and Edo State), Alhaji Rashidi Adebowale; Regional Director, Sales and Marketing, Dangote Cement Plc, Mr Johnson Olaniyi; Group Managing Director, Devakumar Edwin and Honorary Adviser to President, Dangote Group, Mr. Joe Makoju, after a tour of the Dangote Cement Obajana Plant, Kogi State... at the weekend.

Borno to host Multinational Joint Task Force

he Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) has said that the location to host the headquarters of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MJTF) has been secured. The location will be in Borno State. Alhaji Sanusi Abdulahi, Executive Secretary of the commission, made this known at a one-day ministerial meeting of member states of the LCBC and Benin Republic on security yesterday in Abuja. Abdulahi said the meeting was an opportunity for member states to review their commitments in line with issues raised at the extraordi-

nary summit of heads of states in Niamey. “Our commanders-inchief and heads of states have decided to work together as brothers, in this regard each member country is committed to whatever is happening in another member country. “It is therefore an opportunity for the ministers of foreign affairs and defence who are the key advisers to heads of state and government to work together closely to ensure the success of this decision taken at Niamey. “I also want to appreciate the commitment and support of Nigeria particularly with the issue of security and reinforcement of the security

of Baga Kawa as the headquarters of the multinational joint task force. “This is an opportunity also for the Minister of Defence of Nigeria to brief his colleagues that Baga Kawa is safe to host the multinational joint task force. “This issue was raised at the closed-door meeting of the summit in Niamey.” He said the Nigerian minister of defence would further brief the meeting on measures taken to ensure the location, situated in Borno State, was secure. He added that the commission had recorded progress in terms of commitment from member

states. He said that operations of the task force to work across borders would be fully implemented as soon as the legal arrangements were finalised. Also in his opening remarks, Amb Aminu Wali, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, said the considerations at the end of the meeting would enhance the fight against terrorism. Wali said the common draft resolutions agreed on at the end of the meeting would enable the United Nations Security Council and African Union to put in place an appropriate legal framework for cross-border operations.

for them was rejected by the court, which instead ruled that the suspects be remanded in the custody of the Department of State Security.

More so, Justice Ademola ordered the DSS to allow the suspects access to their counsel pending commencement of their trial.

Jonathan hopeful on end of terrorism CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

four girls, the number of those found out of the abducted schoolgirls stands at 61. “They were amazing – to first escape and then walk for weeks,” Davis told The Times of London. “They are the only ones that have escaped from a Boko Haram camp.” Davis said the girls had been told that if they fled Boko Haram, their families would be killed. The girls, who are students of Government Girls’ Secondary School, Chibok were abducted from their boardingschool dormitory in by Boko Haram operatives after being awakened by the sound of gunfire. Their abduction sparked global outrage and a huge campaign calling for their rescue, partly propelled by the hashtag #BringBackOurGirls. Davis said several attempts to negotiate their release had fallen through. However, President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday expressed confidence that with the intensification of joint patrols, military operations and intelligence sharing by Nigeria and neighbouring countries, the activities of insurgents and other cross border crimes would soon be a thing of the past. These strategies were agreed by leaders of countries sharing borders with Nigeria in Niamey last week. Jonathan stated this when he received the Ministers of Defence and Foreign Affairs of Chad, Niger, Cameroun and Benin Republic in Abuja. The ministers were in Abuja to work with their Nigerian counterparts on a legal framework for the cross-border military operations approved by him and neighbouring heads of state in Niamey. The president, during the meeting, said he believed that such collaboration was essential for success in the war against terrorism. “I am quite pleased with the decisions we took in Niamey to en-

hance and boost joint actions against Boko Haram and other crossborder criminals because we have to work together to defeat Boko Haram and other extremist groups in our sub-region. “I believe that if we cooperate more and monitor our borders closely, the movement of criminals and terrorists as well as small arms and ammunition across our shared borders will also be drastically reduced,” he added. At that meeting, the leaders announced plans to step up the fight against Boko Haram. A communiqué issued after the meeting said that a command centre for a multinational force headed by a Chief of Staff will be in place by November 20. The leaders also agreed to finalise the deployment of troops promised by member states to form the multinational force within their national borders by November 1. Meanwhile, Cameroun’s President Paul Biya yesterday vowed his government would go after Boko Haram “until it’s totally wiped out”. “The Camerounian government assures you that it will ceaselessly continue to fight Boko Haram until it’s totally wiped out,” Biya said. He spoke against the backdrop of the release of 27 Camerounian and Chinese hostages who were delivered to authorities on Friday night. The gover nment has not said how they were freed, but a security source said that “a ransom” was paid and around 20 imprisoned Islamists were freed in exchange. The Chinese were seized in May from a construction camp in Waza near the border with Nigeria in an attack that left one Cameroonian soldier dead. The Camerounians — including the wife of one of Cameroun’s deputy prime ministers — were abducted in July during two simultaneous assaults, also blamed on Boko Haram, in which at least 15 people died.

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NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014

Aliyu, Lamido’ll join APC soon, says Kwankwaso Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

ano State Governor, Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has said that two of the G7 governors still in the Peoples Democratic Party would soon join the All Progressives Congress (APC) while more governors would move into the party. The two remaining members of the G7 still in the PDP are Niger State Governor, Alhaji Babangida Aliyu and his Jigawa State counterpart, Mallam Sule Lamido. Kwankwaso gave this

indication at the Government House, Ilorin when he paid a courtesy visit on Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed as part of his consultation for the presidential ticket of the APC for the 2015 election. A statement issued by Ahmed’s Chief Press Secretary, Abdulwahab Oba, quoted Kwankwaso, as describing APC members as practical people with extensive grassroots reach that will rejuvenate the national economy, tackle corruption and ensure growth. “Our economy can never be good in a situa-

tion of crisis; our economy can never be good in the face of corruption. Those who are trying to convince us that the economy is good don’t know what they are saying. Yes, their economy is good. The masses’ economy is bad. That is the situation today. And that is what the APC wants to correct”, the governor was quoted as saying. On the issue of consensus candidate for the presidential election, Kwankwaso said in line with its constitution, the APC would explore the possibility of consensus candidate within the am-

bit of democratic culture. Kwankwaso commended the Kwara State Government for initiating various poverty alleviation and employment generation programmes, which have reduced youth unemployment and the attendant youth restiveness. Ahmed, in his remarks, said that the choice of the All Progressives Congress Presidential candidate for the 2015 general elections would not only be devoid of acrimony but will strengthen the fortunes of the party. Ahmed, who said Nigeria has had the misfor-

tune of bad leadership, despite the abundance of human and natural resources, was optimistic that an APC government at the federal level will through strategic planning, evolve quality leadership that Nigeria deserves. According to him, “the APC is the fastest growing party in Nigeria and the only truly national political party, which came into being as a result of congruence of ideas on how to ensure that Nigeria moves again along the side of improving and growing nations”.

L-R: Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga; Managing Director, PAN Nigeria Limited, Ibrahim Boyi and Executive Vice President, AP France, JeanChristophe Quemard, during a courtesy visit by Peugeot’s delegation to the Minister in Abuja

APC blames Jonathan for Edo attacks Johnchuks Onuanyim Abuja

he All Progressives Congress, y e s t e r d a y, blamed President Goodluck Jonathan for the attack on the Edo State Legislative Quarters last weekend. According to a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the President created the atmosphere for the attacks. The party posited that based on the ease with which the thugs invaded the Legislative Quarters, damaged over 30 cars and inflicted injuries on legislators and their families, there is no question that the attack was carried out with the collusion of the PDP and the increasingly-partisan police. Quoting the governor of Edo State on the attack, the party stated: ‘’Gov. Adams Oshiomhole said the government got intelligence report on

the attack and informed the State Police Commissioner. Instead of sending in reinforcement to prevent the attack, the few policemen attached to the quarters were withdrawn before the attack. This is another indication of a police force that is being bankrolled by all taxpayers becoming shamelessly partisan and engaging in selective implementation of its constitutional role of protecting the lives and property of the citizenry,’’ The party said whether in Rivers State, where the police was used to harass the opposition, including the Governor; Ekiti, where the police stood by while thugs allegedly led by a Governor-elect, Ayodele Fayose were beating Judges and sacking courts, the same Ekiti, where the PDP-led Federal Government has used the police and other security agents to prevent courts from re-opening as ordered by the National Judicial Council, or Edo, where the police

have offered protection to renegade lawmakers at the expense of the majority, the Jonathan administration has given a free rein to impunity like never before in the history of Nigeria. ‘’The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) takes orders only from the President. Therefore, where the President decides to turn the police to his personal militia for use in vindictive and vendetta attacks, the IGP is not only required to comply, he is also expected to pass the same orders down the hierarchy. This is what is happening across the country. ‘’The danger, however, is that when a society descends into anarchy, the same police will not escape the consequences, and will also not be able to handle the outcome of its collusion as professionalism would have deserted it and discipline compromised. By becoming partisan, the police force is destroying itself,’’ it said.

Lawyers task FG on Wali Babatope Okeowo Akure

wo Ondo based Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), Messrs Goke Fakunle and Dayo Akinlaja, yesterday tasked the security agencies to secure the release of former President of Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Mr Okey Wali (SAN). Wali was kidnapped in Port Harcourt, Rivers State at the weekend. Also, the senior lawyers asked the Federal Government to strengthen security in the country, so as to secure lives and properties of individuals and prominent citizens in the country. Speaking at the annual legal year of the Ondo State judiciary, Fakunle in his goodwill message, said no business can thrive in an environment where there is no security. He said there cannot be economic growth without adequate security saying the government should do its utmost to secure the lives and properties of every Nigerian. He said a situation where people sleep with their eyes open should not be tolerated. In his remark, Akinlaja described the abduction as despicable and that security agencies should do all within their powers to secure the former NBA helmsman.

WHO okays three Nigerian pharmaceutical companies Obinna Odoh Abuja

he World Health Organisation (WHO) has officially certified three additional Nigerian Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Companies to produce drugs locally in accordance with WHO Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). That was after the Audits/ Inspections by WHO Prequalification Team. The three drug Manufacturing companies include Evans Pharmaceu-

tical Ltd, May & Baker Pharmaceutical Ltd and Chi Pharmaceutical Ltd. Minister of Health, Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, during a media briefing. He said that the landmark achievement brought the total of Nigerian companies manufacturing drugs locally to four (4) with the inclusion of the Swiss Pharma Nigeria Limited already into production. According to the minister, these companies are certified to join other com-

panies within Africa and outside to produce medicines for Malaria, HIV/ AIDs, Tuberculosis and other UN coordinated projects, e.g, the UN Commission on Life Commodities. Chukwu stated: “ By this laudable achievement, Nigeria is recorded among the nations of the world whose local drug industries manufacture at WHO standards. The WHO GMP standard is the international norm and Nigeria has joined the world in this global phenomenon.”

Court to hear ex-NIMASA DG application December 2 Akeem Nafiu

he Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC) has closed its case in the ongoing trial of the former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency(NIMASA), Raymond Omatseye, before Justice Rita Ajumogobia of a Federal High Court in Lagos. He is being tried over alleged contract scam. The accused, who has

been standing trial on an amended 27-count charge has, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge and is already on bail. At the resumed hearing of the case yesterday, the prosecutor, Godwin Obla (SAN) informed the court that the anti-graft agency has closed its case after calling three witnesses. However, the defence lawyer, Olusina Sofola (SAN), informed the court of his intention to file an application for a

no case submission. Obla responded that the prosecution also had a right to respond to the application of defence within 14 days. After listening to the submissions of counsels, Justice Ajumogobia ruled that she would hear both the application for no case submission and the prosecution’s reply on the return date as she adjourned further hearing in the matter to December 2.

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tuesday, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

NPDC/Seplat JV invests $200m on 450mw Azura —Edo IPP Adeola Yusuf

All Progressives Congress Presidential Aspirant and former Head of State, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (left), with Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, during Buhari’s visit to invite the Governor to his Presidential bid declaration in Lagos…on Sunday

presidency There is no easy way to Aso Villa, even for an incumbent Tunde Oyesina Abuja

Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, yesterday granted an accelerated hearing to a suit challenging the eligibility of President Goodluck Jonathan and his Deputy, Vice President Namadi Sambo, to seek re-election in the 2015 presidential election. Ruling on an ex-parte application, the trial judge, Justice Ahmed Mohammed held that the

2015: Court accelerates hearing on suit to stop Jonathan matter would be heard on weekly basis. The court, however, adjourned the matter till November 12 and also held that the order of accelerated hearing would be effective from when the 30 days within which the respondents were bound to respond to the suit elapsed. Justice Mohammed held that alternatively, the ruling could take effect earlier if the respondents joined issues with the plaintiffs sooner. Joined as defendants in the suit are the Independent National Electoral Commission and

the Attorney General of the Federation. Both defendants were not represented in court yesterday when the counsel for the plaintiffs, Abiodun Owonikoko (SAN), moved the ex-parte application for accelerated hearing. However, before delivering ruling on the application for accelerated hearing, the judge confirmed that the defendants had been served with the processes on October 3. Under the Federal High Court Civil Procedure rules, the defendants have up till November 3 to respond to the suit.

Owonikoko had urged the court to fix the matter for “the earliest possible date” in line with the Supreme Court’s practice direction which directs a quick determination of election-related cases. The plaintiffs, who are both politicians, Adejumo Ajagbe and Olatoye Wahab, are asking the court among other prayers,to make an order restraining INEC and the AGF from allowing Jonathan and Sambo to seek re-election in 2015. They based their suit on the provisions of sections 132(1), 135(2)(a) and (b), 137(1)(b), 142(1) and

Hamzat, Raji set to quit Fashola’s cabinet

CJN reads riot act to court registrars, others

Muritala Ayinla

Tunde Oyesina

ndications yesterday emerged that six members of the Lagos State Executive Council may resign from Governor Babatunde Fashola’s cabinet to enable them pursue their political ambitions. New Telegraph authoritatively gathered that no fewer than six members of Fashola’s team are set to contest for either governorship seat or Federal House of Representatives seats in their various constituencies. They will know their fate after the All Progressives Congress primaries next month. Those who are leaving Fashola’s cabinet, if their political aspira-

tions scale through are: The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Dr Obafemi Hamzat and a Senior Special Assistant to Governor Fashola on School Environmental Advocacy, Mrs. Adetokunbo Tobun-Agbesanwa, who have also indicated interest to contest for the governorship seat. Others who want to resign to contest for Federal House of Representatives include: The Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Lateef Raji; Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Oyinlomo Danmole and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademorin Kuye.

Abuja

he Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mariam Aloma Muhktar, yesterday charged court registrars to maintain high standard of integrity, incorruptibility, fairness and transparency in the discharge of their duties. The CJN gave this charge in Abuja during the opening ceremony of a workshop for Chief Registrars and Secretaries of Judicial Committees organized by the National Judicial Institute NJI. Speaking at the workshop, which has its theme as ‘Promoting Transparency and Integrity in the Judiciary’, the CJN urged

participants to maintain a high level of accountability in terms of monetary dealings with regards to contracts, procurement, resource management, effective time management and other related fields. “On the other hand, as potential Judges, these and some other factors will be taken into consideration during and even after your elevation. “In addition, it is essential to state at this point that the roles of Directors and Inspectors of Area/ Sharia/Customary Courts in the dispensation of justice are enormous. Their duties require due care and diligence, and it is only by so doing that miscarriage of justice can be prevented”, the CJN stated.

(2) of the Constitution and the Supreme Court decisions. The plaintiffs also are seeking to restrain INEC and the Attorney General of the Federation from allowing Jonathan to participate in the 2015 presidential election. The plaintiffs argued that by the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the President, having contested the presidential election twice, won and taken the oath of office and allegiance twice in respect of that office, could no longer present himself for election to that office the third time.

he Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, SPDC/Seplat Joint Venture (JV) has invested $200 million on Azura-Edo IPP Gas Infrastructure. The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, who disclosed this, maintained that the Federal Government is committed to an aggressive and robust implementation of the various initiatives designed to accelerate the provision of adequate gas supply for power generation in line with the Federal Government’s aspiration for the power sector. The Minister, who recently announced the N213bn inter-agency initiative to facilitate the liquidation of legacy gas debts in the power sector, stated in a statement by Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs division of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mr. Ohi Alegbe, that the NNPC alongside its Joint Venture Partners are determined to surpass the mandate of providing the required fuel gas as well as gas infrastructure for the smooth operation of power plants in the country. On gas supply to the upcoming Azura-Edo Power plant in Ihovbor/Orior Osemwende Communities near Benin City, whose foundation laying ceremony was performed by President Goodluck Jonathan over the weekend, Alison-Madueke said that the 450mw IPP would be supplied with 120mmscuf/per day through the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC.

Jonathan presents N250m to victims of Mile 1 fire Emmanuel Masha, Okegwo Kenechukwu Onitsha

he victims of the Mile 1 market fire incident in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, heaved a sigh of relief yesterday as President Goodluck Jonathan presented them a cheque of N250 million as support for their businesses. Also, the president has called on Nigerians to guard jealously their cultural norms and values, so as to strengthen the national cultural integration. President Jonathan made the call in a message to the 13th Ofala Festival of HRH Obi Alfred Achebe of Onitsha

Anambra State at the weekend. Jonathan yesterday presented the N250million cheque through the PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Muazu, who was in Port Harcourt on a one day official visit to the Rivers State chapter of PDP. Jonathan also promised to rebuild the market if returned as President in 2015 Presidential election. Some of the traders which was gutted by fire last December, had relocated to other areas to continue their trading, while many still hang around, hawking and expecting government to come to their rescue.

NEW TELEGRAPH tuesday, OCTOBER 14, 2014

transactions Money is moving about 48 hours to change of government in Ekiti Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

kiti State Governor-Elect, Mr. Ayo Fayose, yesterday raised the alarm over alleged moves by the outgoing government of Dr. Kayode Fayemi, to secure a fresh N1 billion loan from First City Monument Bank barely four days to the end of its tenure. In a letter with reference number OGE/EK/ DM/ 094 dated October

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south — west

Fayose raises the alarm over N1bn loan, transfer of N856m l It’s not true, says govt

10, 2014 and signed by the Chairman, Ekiti State Transition Committee, Chief Dipo Anisulowo, to the Managing Director, FCMB, Lagos, the Fayose team said it had on good authority that the new loan was being sourced to pay the severance allowances of public office holders. This was just as the committee also raised the alarm over illegal transfer of over N856 million from the state SUBEB project ac-

count number 0065385894 with Access Bank Plc to another account. The said money, the committee alleged, was the state’s counterpart contributions to the Federal Government intervention funds. “Please be informed that going by UBEC financial regulations, it is absolutely unethical to transfer any part of the fund that is for SUBEB/UBEC project execution in the state without valid instruction.

“This move will definitely wane down the reputation of the state as one of the most performing states in the federation,” the letter with reference number EKSUBEB/PS/400/41, read. The committee noted that granting loans to an administration, which has less than four days to wind down its activities, was suspicious. “Our greatest concern regarding this transaction is that it would be deducted as first line deductions

from October 2014 allocations, when the incoming administration would have taken over the reins of governance in the state. Speaking on the issue yesterday, Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Tayo Ekundayo, dismissed the allegations as untrue. He said: “I was not at any meeting where such a decision was taken to borrow any money to pay severance allowances of public office holders. It is one of the lies they are telling to confuse the people.”

L-R: Quality Manager, Caverton Helicopters, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, Mr. Kofo Macaulay; Director, Strategy and Planning, Mr. Kingsley Uwagbale and Project Management Head, Titi Osimboni, briefing the press during the courtesy visit by members of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC), at the airport in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

LP will survive without Mimiko, says Bamidele Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele, has said that the successful conduct of the Labour Party (LP) national convention last Saturday, had corrected the erroneous impression that the party would go into extinction, following the defection of some top members. The lawmaker also commiserated with Afenifere leader, Senator Ayo Fasanmi, over his wife, Mrs. Felicia Adejoke Fasanmi, who died last week, describing her demise as painful. Bamidele spoke yesterday to end the insinuation that the defection of the LP National Leader, who is also the Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko signaled the end of the party.

In a statement in Ado-Ekiti by his media aide, Ahmed Salami, Bamidele said the LP was an alternative platform that was ready to stand against any storm for the survival of the country’s fledgling democracy, saying no challenge would make the party go into oblivion. He said: “LP is a party that is ready to give every Nigerian an alternative platform to contest for any elective position. We believe that no challenge is worth the death of any party, except when those within are not committed. “But, as leaders, we have to sacrifice our conveniences and comfort to ensure that no Nigerian is deprived of his fundamental rights. “We are proud to say that the LP remains solid and maintains unwavering commitment to the development of our democracy,” Bamidele added.

Pitan takes campaign to Agege

former Commissioner for Health in Lagos State and a governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Leke Pitan, has assured the people of the state that the current medical outreach he is working on in conjunction with his professional colleagues would not stop once he becomes the governor. Rather than stop the programme, he said it would be enlarged to become ‘a government mission,’ which would bring government’s activities round to the people at their places of abode. According to him, this would bring government to the grassroots, as everybody would have the opportunity of interacting directly stating their concerns and worries, while the government would pick their case and work on it. Pitan said many of the welfare amenities, like allocation of market stalls, micro-loans and empowerment programmes for the people, would be brought right down to their doorstep, so that the masses can benefit from such amenities properly. The governorship hopeful gave the assurance yesterday during the Dr. Leke Pitan and Friends Free Medical Outreach for the Arewa community in Agege, Lagos.

You can’t launder Fayemi’s image, PDP tells Soyinka Argugu heads Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

kiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday told Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka that he cannot in any way help in laundering the image of outgoing governor of the state, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, following his dismal per-

formance in the June 21 governorship election. According to the party’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Oluwawole, there was no mystery in the defeat of Fayemi, he was outrightly rejected by the people, having failed to meet their expectations. Oluwawole was reacting to the statement by Soyinka that Fayemi’s loss in the poll was a mystery to him.

The Nobel laureate spoke on Sunday, when he attended a function as part of the fourth anniversary of the Fayemi administration. Oluwawole said Soyinka was only making such ridiculous statement in appreciation of the ‘stomach honorarium’ from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the outgoing governor of the state.

Opposing chairmen of NBA excluded from legal year’s celebration Babatope Okeowo Akure

ather than abate, the crisis between the judiciary and lawyers in Ondo State yesterday took another dimension as the section of the Bar associations opposed to the Chief Judge, Justice Seinde Kumuyi, was excluded from making speeches at the commencement of the legal year. Chairman of the Conference of the Bar associ-

ations, who also doubles as the chairman of the Akure chapter of the Nigeria Bar Association, Mr. Kayode Dare and his counterparts in Ondo and Ikare were disallowed by the court from reading their prepared speeches. There has been no love lost between the NBA and the state judiciary over the presentation of tax clearance as one of the bail conditions by the courts. However, Chairmen of Owo and Okitipupa

branches, Ola Orimoloye and Victor Ajisomo, were allowed to read their prepared speeches at the ceremony. The aggrieved lawyers, who stormed out of the courtroom, however, blamed some of their senior colleagues and the two chairmen, who read their speeches, of betraying their struggle for the upturn of some policies of the Chief Judge, which they said is inimical to law practice in the state.

Osun APC committee

Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

he All Progressives Congress (APC) has set up a five-member committee that will conduct Osun State wards, local government and state congresses in preparation for the 2015 general elections in the state. The committee led by the former Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Mr. Sulaimon Agungu, in a press conference in Osogbo yesterday, assured all members of the party seeking one elective position or the other of the committee’s fairness in handling issues. He said: “We are fully prepared for the congress that would commence on October 13 and climax on Saturday, October 18, 2014 and we also assure every one of free, fair and transparent congress that will enthrone acceptable executive committee members at all levels.”

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Metro

The suspects. Inset:Recovered vehicle and arms

‘We wear warders’ uniform to beat security at border’ Taiwo Jimoh and Shola Adefuwa

embers of a nineman gang of armed robbers, terrorising Lekki, Ajah, Victoria Island, etc, in Lagos, yesterday said they used to wear prison officials’ uniform to beat security at the border after snatching cars in Nigeria.

The suspects spoke during their parade before journalists at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja. They are Bernard Bongy (30), Obinna Eyinma (35), Emeka Uche (37), Chukwuma Akubueze (37) and David Joshua (22). Others are Ifeanyi Okafor (35), Kichinto Ofone (30), Moses Ogbu (36) and Aminu

Bobbo (32). Bongy, a Benin Republic national, who is the leader of the gang, said that he used to work as a driver in an insurance company until he was sacked for doctoring the fuel receipts. He confessed that he would buy 50 litres, but collect receipt and payment of 80 litres from the company. The suspect said that after

his sack, he went back to his country and met his uncle who introduced him to car smuggling. Bongy added that later, some other gang members started snatching vehicles in Nigeria and would head to Benin Republic to sell the cars. He said: “I came back to Nigeria and recruited guys. Our first operation was at a

night club on Victoria Island where we hijacked a Toyota Camry car and a Prado Jeep. We moved them to Cotonou. “Whenever a car was hijacked, we used prison officials’ uniform to disguise and beat security on the BadagryContonu route.” The Commissioner of Police, Mr Kayode Aderanti, who paraded the suspects, explained that they attacked the home of one Albert Omisore at Eletu Ogabi, Victoria Island. Aderanti said that after the robbery, detectives attached to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), commenced investigation, leading to the arrest of the suspects. He said that Eyinma, who was first nabbed, was fished out from his hideout at Obalende, while the remaining eight suspects were arrested at Kuramo Beach. The gang was also said to have taken two rifles from the two policemen in Omisore’s home on the day they went to rob. “When we gained access into the house, we went straight to the living room and met a woman with her little daughter. We then saw another room and asked the woman who was inside. The woman told us it was her cook and the driver that were inside. We never knew policemen were inside the room. “The woman led us to the door and knocked it. When we got inside, one of us said hah! Policemen! When the policemen saw us, they wanted to run, but we overpowered them. We collected the two rifles and escaped. “When will took the two guns from the policemen, simply because we were not used to gun, we threw them into a nearby bush in the area,” Eyinma said.

UNDP trains security agents, journalists, others

14,000 Lagos residents undergo skill acquisition training

Musa Pam

Jos

o restore sustainable peace and development in Plateau State ahead 2015 general elections, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has organised a training workshop on peace and security for journalists, civil society groups and security agencies. The Resident Coordinator of the UN System and Resident Representative of ABIODUN BELLO UNDP FEATURES in Nigeria, Mr Dauda Editor Toure, described the workabiodun.bello@newtelegraphonline.com shop as early warning and zearly response mediation and conflict transformation mechanisms.

Muritala Ayinla overnor Babatunde Fashola yesterday kicked off the training of additional 14,000 residents of Lagos State on different vocational skills. The governor said his administration was committed to alleviating poverty by making people self-reliant with skills. Fashola, who said he was satisfied with the remarkable achievements of the 10,000 people earlier trained in the state Expanded Economic Empowerment Programme, said it was initiated to raise the people’s living standard and make them self-employed. Kicking off the programme at Alimosho Local Govern-

ment Secretariat, Ikotun, the governor, who was represented by his deputy, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, disclosed that the second phase of the one-month skill acquisition and vocation programme kicked off simultaneously across the state yesterday. He said: “We give glory to God Almighty that the first phase of the empowerment and skill acquisition programme went well. It was not only successful but also overwhelming and encouraging. So, the beneficiaries are happy. “When we started the programme, we planned to have 10,000 people but interestingly we had more than what we planned for. All the beneficiaries who participated in the

programme showed enthusiasm to learn. They are happy now because they will become self-reliant and self-dependent. “We are also happy as government to alleviate poverty through skill acquisition training. The programme is going to take a lot of people out of poverty and touch many lives because those that are trained in the programme will also become trainers to other people in the near future.” The governor added that 20,000 residents applied for the programme but only 14,000 were short-listed in the second phase of the empowerment programme, noting that a monitoring strategy had been put in place to ensure that the beneficiaries put the skills

into good use. He added: “This is a programme that we believe that it is not the amount of money we spend on the people that matters but the everlasting prosperity and joy people will derive from it that concern us. We have promised Lagosians that we are going to take them out of poverty and help them.” Earlier some of the beneficiaries, who participated in the first phase, commended the government for the initiative, saying the programme had recorded positive impacts on their lives. In his testimony, one of the beneficiaries, Mr Timothy Paul, who hails from Abia State, said he had become selfemployed.

Metro 11

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014

Ibadan fire death toll hits 13

AOCOED lecturers protest non-payment of salary arrears

lVictims call for help

Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

Muritala Ayinla

ne of the 11 people rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State on Saturday night following serious burns they sustained in a fire accident, died yesterday. The death of the victim, whose identity could not be ascertained at press time, brought to 13 the number of those who died after a fuel tanker fell at Molete roundabout, Ibadan, burst into flames and burnt traders, houses, shops, vehicles and motorcycles, among others. The UCH Public Relations Officer, Ayodeji Bobade, confirmed that the 40-year-old male, who sustained first degree burns, died in the early hours yesterday. He said: “I cannot give the name of the victim now but I can confirm to you that the man who was 40 years old died overnight. He sustained serious injury in the fire and effort to save his life was not successful because of the extent of his injury. We are battling to ensure others survive.” An eight-year-old girl and an

Some of the affected shops and houses

employee of the Tribune Newspaper were among the victims of the accident. Yesterday, there were many relatives of the victims at the Burns Unit of UCH awaiting report of the state of health of their loved ones. Some of them said they were going to donate blood for their relatives who were receiving treatment. One of them, Alhaja Oyetunde Adesokan, said her sister, Kafilat Olatunji, 45, a widow, was caught up in the fire. According to her, Olatunji was coming from Lagos to see her chil-

dren on the night she fell victim. She said: “Kafilat is my immediate younger sister. She sustained serious burns from head to toe; only her hair and part of her face were not seriously affected. I could hardly recognise her. The hospital management is doing its best but it is too early to say how she is responding to treatment. “We were expecting her at home that night but when we could not hear from her again, we called her phone but it was switched off. Because we knew that there was fire around the area where she was to take a bus home, we rushed there but

she was not among the dead. We came to UCH and found her. Her husband is dead and she was trading at Somolu area of Lagos to take care of the four children who live in Ibadan.” Adesokan said the families of victims spent a lot of money to buy drugs on Sunday until they were told by Oyo State Government representatives who visited the hospital to keep their receipts and stop buying drugs for treatment. Meanwhile, traders whose shops and goods were burnt have called on the state government to come to their aid.

NDLEA destroys N6.8bn cannabis, nabs baron Juliana Francis

he National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has destroyed a cannabis plantation of 57 hectares, valued at N6.8 billion. The NDLEA Chairman, Ahmadu Giade, who ordered the destruction of the cannabis plantation located at Gbongan Forest Reserve, Ayedade Local Government Area of Osun State, said that it was in response to the growing cannabis cultivation in the South-West states. He said: “The estimated street value of 676,800kg of destroyed cannabis on the 57 hectares is N6.8 billion.” The operation lasted from October 9 to 12. A suspected drug

Mimiko, Ondo State gov.

NDLEA officials destroying the cannabis farm

baron, Godspower Chibogu, 51, who allegedly financed the cultivation of the plantation, was traced to his private residence in Ibadan, Oyo State where he was apprehended. He was taken to the farm where he witnessed the destruction. A Peugeot 406 saloon car be-

longing to the suspect was also impounded. “I gave money to people to farm the cannabis farm for me. I used to be a transporter but when my business was recording losses, I sold my buses and invested the money in cannabis cultivation,” Chibogu was quoted as saying.

Giade promised to arrest more barons and destroy cannabis plantations. He said: “This is the first time the NDLEA is engaging the services of a tractor in the destruction of a cannabis farm. The farms are so large that it takes several days and weeks to destroy manually. Deploying heavy-duty equipment to the farms makes the task simpler and faster. “It is also a demonstration of our commitment to the eradication of cannabis cultivation. In the past few months, we have destroyed several cannabis plantations. More barons shall be arrested and cannabis plantations destroyed.” Giade said that the major drug problem in the country was canna-

bis. He said: “It accounts for over 90 per cent of total drug seized by the NDLEA. We are therefore concentrating efforts at addressing the problem at the grassroots’ level. “Taking the battle to the farms has yielded significant success. We are determined to destroy all cannabis farms and cut off supply to users. This is one of our strategies of reducing crime and violence in our country.” The NDLEA Director of Operations and General Investigation, Mr Olugbenga Mabo, said that the successful arrest of Chibogu, who had been on the wanted list of the agency underscored the fact that drug barons had no hiding place.

Alleged witchcraft: Eight-year-old kids tortured in Akwa Ibom Tony Anichebe Uyo

he menace of witchcraft allegation, torture and neglect of children has continued unabated in some parts of Akwa Ibom State. This is despite efforts by the state government to strengthen all instrumentalities of law

against child abuse and other related offences. Two children from Okobo Local Government Area of the state, little Miss Mary Emmanuel Odiong and Master Ekong Asua, both eight years’ old, were recently tortured, brutalised and chased away from home by their parents over allegation of being a witch

and a wizard. Narrating her ordeals, Mary said that a few weeks ago, one of her uncles died in her Okopedi Village of an ailment suspected to be AIDS. But according to her, days after the burial, she was accused of being responsible for the man’s death. She said: “The people

in my family called me and began to ask me questions whether I was a witch and why did I kill my uncle? I told them that I did not know anything about what they were talking about. “They started to torture me; they used hot cutlass in beating me. They stabbed my buttocks with a knife and I became

unconscious. I later found myself in a bush. “I have been living on the streets since last month without food and shelter.” On his part, Ekong said he is from Oti Oro village in Okobo Local Government and that his mother and father died weeks ago of some ailments he did not know.

ecturers of the Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education (AOCOED), Ijanikin, Lagos, yesterday staged a protest at the Government House, Alausa, Ikeja, over the nonpayment of their 18 months’ salary arrears. They also accused the Lagos State Government of not remitting pension funds to their pension accounts for over 17 months and non-payment of retirees’ benefits for three years. The lecturers, numbering about 100, also protested non-remittance of over N150 million deducted cooperative funds to their accounts. Armed with placards of various sizes, the lecturers also said their grievances with the government included poor funding of the institution, structural defect of the newly inaugurated College of Health Centre and attempt to reverse the retirement age from 65 years to 60 years. Some of the inscriptions read: “Fashola pay us our pension arrears,” “Is it a sin to be lecturers?” among others. Speaking on behalf of the aggrieved lecturers, Chairman of the Joint Action Front (JAF), Mr Abiodun Aremu, said it was not right for the government to ask lecturers to work without paying them their entitlements. Aremu also decried what he called the misappropriation of the lecturers’ co-operative funds and nonremittance of pension funds, saying the problem smacked of lack of transparency on the part of government. He said: “Lecturers and indeed all Nigerian workers deserve a living wage. It is unfortunate that deductions from people’s salaries have now become subjects of misappropriation. This is not acceptable and the money must get back to the lecturers.” Aremu said the government did not have any excuse not to clear all it owed the lecturers in view of the huge revenue being generated in the state.

News

dumped

Senator Ayogu Eze’s ambition is threatened. He cannot bank on home support anymore

Uwakwe Abugu Enugu

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) consensus governorship candidate in Enugu State, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, at the weekend, gained a major political ground over his

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south — east

Eze’s kinsmen endorse Ugwuanyi rivals, when kinsmen and loyalists of another major contender, Senator Ayogu Eze, endorsed the consensus candidate at a huge gathering in his (senator’s) home front. One of the high points of the event seen as a huge reversal of political fortune for the outspoken two-term senator was when the PDP Chairman for Umuozzi Ward 7, Eze’s ward, Mr. Aloysius Eze, moved a motion for the

The number of pending asylum seekers of Namibia at the beginning of 2010. Source: Blatantworld.com

adoption of Ugwuanyi, an action that was promptly seconded, which also attracted a loud applause. The event was held last Sunday at the Umuopu, Enugu-Ezike, Igbo-Eze North council country home of Nigeria’s former Ambassador to Uganda, Ambassador Fidel Ayogu, himself a governorship aspirant, who stepped down for Ugwuanyi on the day the PDP caucus adopted him.

The life expectancy (in years) at birth of men in Hong Kong, China in 2010-2015. Source: Un.org

New Telegraph observed that most chieftains of the party, other political and opinion leaders in the council area, graced the occasion, which appeared more like a carnival during which the leaders took their turns to speak on the reason for the endorsement of Ugwuanyi. Among those present were the host, Ayogu, who was the minority whip of the House of Representa-

28.52

The average age of Portugal team in Brazil 2014 World Cup. Source: Telegraph.co.uk

tives, Enugu North senatorial district Chairman of the PDP, Chief Mike Ejinima, two members of the House of Assembly representing the two state constituencies in the local government, Enugu State Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Emeka Abugu, General Manager of the state Rural Electrification Board, Mr. Simon Atigwe, a senior special assistant to Governor Sullivan Chime, Prince Ogbon-

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The sex ratio of women to 100 men (international migrants) in Montenegro in 2010. Source: Un.org

na Itodo, former member of the House of Assembly, Hon. David Atigwe, among many others. Many of those who attended the meeting are known allies and loyalists of Eze in the political equation of the local government and observers said attending the event meant that they have dumped him in deference to the position already taken by Governor Sullivan Chime and the leaders of the party. It was also observed that the leaders present on the occasion came from across the old four-community structure of the local council area, namely, Ezzodo, Essodo, Umuitodo and Umuozzi, just as many of the aspirants jostling for the ticket of the party for other elective positions were also present.

Thugs disrupt APGA’s rally in Imo Steve Uzoechi OWERRI

L-R: Founder, Felabration, Yeni Kuti; daughter of Ransom Kuti, Yemisi Ransom-Kuti and son of the Afro beat legend, Femi Kuti, during Fela Debate 6, marking the 2014 edition of Felabration lecture in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO: GODWIN IREKHE

Okonkwo gets more support Temitope Ogunbanke

head of the 2015 general elections, the people of Dunukofia, Anaocha and Awka North Local Government in Anambra State, have unanimously endorsed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial aspirant, Senator Annie Okonkwo, to represent Anambra Central senatorial district in the senate. Speaking during a stakeholders meeting in Anaocha Local Govern-

ment, Chairman of the PDP in the council, Mr. Okechukwu Ekemezie, said they decided to adopt Okonkwo, because he distinguished himself among others vying for the position in the zone even before his first election into the Senate in 2007. Ekemezie said having been convinced about Okonkwho’s achievement while in the Senate between 2007 and 2011, the 19 wards chairmen in Anaocha Local Govern-

ment, Adazi-Ani I, AdaziAni II, Adazi-Enu I, AdaziEnu II, Adazi-Nnukwu I, Adazi-Nnukwu II, Agulu I, Agulu II, Agulu III, Agulu IV, Aguluzigbo I, Akwaeze I, Ichida I, Ichida II, Neni I, Neni II, Nri I, Nri II, Obeledu I and other stakeholders came to an agreement that they would adopt Okonkwo as the candidate of the party. “We will support the person we know. Senator Annie Okonkwo remembered us when he was elected in 2007.”

Ebonyi: Okorie kicks against Chukwu’s imposition Charles Onyekwere ABAKALIKI

former Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Paul Okorie, who had served in various capacities in Governor Martin Elechi’s administration, at the weekend, condemned in totality the alleged imposition of a sole candidate by the Peoples Democratic Party

(PDP) in the state as against the party’s guidelines. Okorie made this known while addressing journalists in Abakaliki yesterday. He, however, declared his interest in the governorship seat under the platform of the PDP, just as he said that the attempt by the government to adopt a sole candidate is undemocratic and capable of tearing the party apart.

According to him; “Nevertheless, while it is the right of individuals or groups to have a preferred choice in the form of endorsements and or voting; it should be done in line with democratic principles and should not undermine the rights of others to their preferred choices or in violation of laid down guidelines by the party and the constitution.

Okorocha is after my life, says comedian Steve Uzoechi OWERRI

tand-up comedian and former Senior Special Assistant to Governor Rochas Okorocha on Entertainment, Uche Ogbuagu, has alleged that his life and those of members of his family are in danger, following assertions he made in a published interview and his announcement that he is working on an album to address the state of affairs in Imo State. Ogbuagu, in a telephone conversation with our correspondent said: “It’s not a joke, yes they are after me.” He said he was convinced that the threats are real and potent, alleging that different cell phone numbers ‘traceable to the aides of a top Imo government official’ have been harassing and threatening to eliminate him and his family.

According to him, some of the callers warned him not to release the new album he talked about or risk losing his entire family. The comedian said he has reported the matter to relevant security agencies, tendering some of the cell phone numbers for investigation. He said the topshot should be held responsible in the event of any attack or untoward incident against him or any member of his family. But an official in the Government House, who did not want his name in print, as it was not within his purview to comment on such issue said: “You know this is the work of the media unit, but you would notice that they have deliberately ignored all of Uche Ogbuagu’s ranting in the newspapers and on radio. “Nobody would dignify him with a response, beyond being an entertainer, who is Ogbuagu that he would be threatened.”

uspected thugs numbering over 16 yesterday disrupted the ongoing local government area political sensitisation tour and rally by the Imo State Working Committee of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Ngor-Okpala council area. The hoodlums stormed the venue of the event at the Old County Council Headquarters, Umuneke Ngor-Okpala, before members of the State Working Committee and other guests arrived at the place. The thugs, some of who were wearing branded vests of a governorship aspirant in the party, were seen disrupting proceedings, upturning seats and chanting war songs. The committee members, who arrived later, had to abandon the event when it became obvious that the party officials could not contain the excesses of the thugs. Other guests at rally quickly followed suit and left the venue.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT This Is To Inform The General Public Of Loss Of Document Building Lease No 59/59/132 Of 30/4/1956 In Respect Of Plot No. 5 Aria River Layout Gra, Enugu Got Lost. If Found Contact The Ministry Of Land, Enugu.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

Re-election

Akwa Ibom

Uduaghan’s seat

Ahmed courts Kwara with LCDAs, Arabic board

Ndoma-Egba battles for survival

Okoko: My aspiration built on ‘uncommon sacrifice’

Delta: Intriguing battle for PDP ticket

Politics The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cancelled endorsements of aspirants in its state chapters while that of President Goodluck Jonathan subsists. WALE ELEGBEDE examines the directive and its moral burden

Endorsement: Sauce for Jonathan, not others

hen all the leadership organs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) comprising of the Board of Trustees (BOT), Governors’ Forum and National Working Committee (NWC) chose the 66th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party held last month in Abuja to adopt President Goodluck Jonathan as its sole candidate for the February 14, 2015 presidential election, little did they know that its state chapters and governors would take a cue from it in no distance time. Without any sense of reference to the party’s headquarters, the recent weeks have witnessed a handful of endorsements for the 2015 election from PDP-controlled states, especially for governorship ticket. Aiming to nip the catalogue of adoptions in the bud, the NWC voided the endorsements and instructed the governors and chairmen of the affected states to cancel such adoption. Already, the directive has started generating bad blood between the party headquarters and the state chapters led by governors. For once, the interests of governors on the platform of PDP seems threatened and they have started pointing fingers at the Presidency for inflaming the NWC against them to halt their decisions of handpicking their successors and se-

AYODELE OJO

DEPUTY Editor, POLITICS ayodele.ojo@newtelegraphonline.com

Jonathan

Mu’azu

Elechi

Ugwuanyi

lecting candidates for both the national and state assemblies. President’s blanket endorsement The idea for Jonathan’s blanket endorsement was first mooted in 2013 by the chairman of PDP’s BoT, Chief Tony Anenih at two separate stakeholders meetings of the party in Asaba, Delta State and in the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Anenih who admitted that party primaries had always been the bane of

rancour in the party’s rank, said to avert this tradition of internal warfare, the party hierarchy must consider a selection process that would not leave the party bruised and incapacitated before, during and after the election. Though Anenih’s

recommendation didn’t get immediate approval, it was a matter of time before his advocacy became the party’s mantra with President Jonathan turning out to be the first beneficiary. With waves of endorsement already pouring in from

the party’s chapters and zones across the country for the president, the PDP’s NEC at its 66th meeting held on September 18 finally stop any of its members itching to contest the February 14, 2015 presidential election. The party’s NEC unanimously endorsed President Jonathan as its sole candidate for the election. Interestingly, one of the personalities that have been tipped to give the president a challenge for the party’s ticket, Governor Babangida Aliyu of Niger State, turned out to be the PDP Governors’ Forum purveyor of the president’s endorsement. While presenting the governor’s resolution in adopting Jonathan, Aliyu said the decision was unanimous and there was no dissenting voice on the issue. To boost his claims that there was no counter against Jonathan’s adoption, Aliyu asked the Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, one of the anticipated frontrunners for the PDP ticket, to confirm the adoption. Lamido was given a standing ovation by members of NEC in session for being part of the endorsement. Apparently, the cheering and standing ovation buried Lamido’s dream of emerging PDP candidate in 2015. Afterwards, it was rain of endorsement for the president across the PDP structures both within and outside the shores of the country. From Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) rallies held in the six geo-politico zones of the country to PDP sensitisation rallies and the various groups and caucuses in the party, it was Jonathan all the way. Perhaps, the final hurdle for the party to complete the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ritual of ratifying the adoption is the party’s convention slated for December 6. The convention, which would only be a mere formality, is expected to rubber stamp the president’s second term ticket. The goose and the gander conjecture Perhaps, the truism - what is CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Politics

Governor AbdulFattah Ahmed has taken some critical steps in the governance of Kwara State that may affect his chances in the 2015 election, reports BIODUN OYELEYE Creation of council development areas Ahead of the 2015 general election, Governor AbdulFattah Ahmed has made some bold moves to reposition Kwara State and warm himself to the hearts of the people. The first move by the governor was the decision to create new Local Council Development Authorities (LCDAs) across the state. When news about the move filtered into town, not a few were of the view that it was a strategic move and welcome development, given the desire among residents for such a development. The last time such an issue came up was during the administration of the late Governor Mohammed Lawal, who created some local government areas, but which were to be later scrapped by the succeeding government on ground that it breached necessary requirements. But in making his move, Ahmed has avoided going for direct creation of local governments, perhaps taking a cue from the constitutional crisis such a move created when former Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, created new local governments in his state. The governor, while inaugurating the 14-man committee saddled with the responsibility of deciding which communities would be favoured with the new order, linked his administration’s decision to the need to tackle observable lopsidedness in the structure of local government administration in the state. He expressed concern that several of the existing 16-local government structures in the state were created as far back as 1976 without any amendment to them, adding that the desire for more local government areas have been hampered by the cumbersome constitutional process attached to it. He gave the committee eight weeks to turn in its report. Members of the committee include former Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and now a Board of Trustees (BoT) member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, who is the chairman while the secretary of the committee is Alhaji A. A Yusuf. The governor said: “As presently constituted, the local government structure remains largely inadequate considering our population, landmass and other demographic features. For instance, Asa, Moro and Ifelodun Local Government Councils, created by the 1976 reforms have retained their structure till date, while several other local government councils have been created out of the others. Consequently, the said local government councils remain unnecessary large, resulting in avoidable administrative bottlenecks.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ahmed courts Kwara with LCDAs, Arabic board care of people in rural communities, the second move is to please Islamic leaders whose views are respected in Kwara State. Some 54 years after Arabic Education Board was established in northern Nigeria, it was only last week that the Kwara State government decided to take the bull by the horn and inaugurate its own version. The committee is headed by Dr. AbdulKadir Sholagberu, a respected Islamic scholar and confidant of the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari. The governor justified his decision to set up the board. He said: “As we all know, education, in its conventional and religious forms, is key to individual and societal advancement. We must therefore spare no effort to maintain quality standards in all aspects of education, particularly as they concern the appropriate foundations for our youth. “Apart from Arabic language’s key role in the history of modern civilisation, contemporary Arabic Education is pivotal in moulding the character of students to conform to critical norms and values through exposure to the quality education as their peers in conventional schools. Appropriate Arabic Education is also vital to current efforts to expand the world-view of our youth by improving their language skills and reading culture. Furthermore, it is pertinent to regulate Arabic Private Schools in the state in keeping with our emphasis on quality education under Every Child Counts.”

Ahmed

“Furthermore, our people’s clamour for more local government areas remains unfulfilled due to the stringent and timeconsuming constitutional process required for the creation of new local government councils. Consequently, we have received requests from across the senatorial districts and the 16 local government areas for the creation of Local Government Council Development Areas (LCDAs).” The terms of reference given the committee are as follows: To identify all basic parameters contingent to the creation of local government council development areas using variables peculiar to the Kwara environment while borrowing relevant experiences from other states that have similar structures; consider all factors related to viability (Internally Generated Revenue, population, land area, etc.) in suggesting an area for LCDA status; identify a suitable communities as headquarters taking due cognizance of precedence in administrative responsibility in arriving at the choice; consider other relevant factors that will ensure uniformity, equity, fairness, and greater sense of belonging. Others are to assess the possibility of converting existing districts into development area councils with little adjustment where necessary and review the reports of similar exercises carried out in the past and any other considerations the committee finds pertinent to successful completion of this crucial assignment. Baraje: No fear In his response, Baraje assured that members will discharge the responsibility in consultations with traditional institutions and people at the grassroots, assuring that his

committee would not be biased in its recommendations to government. “The assignment is a big task,” he said shortly after the inauguration, adding: “But Yoruba has a saying that no matter how weighty a word is, you will not cut it with cutlass; you will only use mouth to discuss it. So, we intend to follow certain procedures. It is something that has a lot to do with the grassroots. We will go back to them and make consultations with them. “It is an activity that has to do with traditional institutions. We will have to do a lot of consultations with our traditional institutions. Thirdly, it is the request of the people, so we have to ask people to tell us what they want. It is the collation and conglomeration of the people’s wish, request, traditional institutions and grassroots people’s inputs we are going to use.” He acknowledged the need for care and caution in handling the matter and promised to understudy states like Lagos, Sokoto and Kano where the LCDA model has become fairly successful and added value to the people. His words: “No doubt the issue of LCDA is a big task that must be tackled with care and handled by people who are not only accomplished administrators but Kwarans that are grassroots-oriented. Records have shown that creation of additional local governments had not only brought development but has also provided job opportunities, meaningful economic development and has opened up rural areas and equally reduced rural/urban migration.” Arabic education board If the first move sought to take

As presently constituted, the local government structure remains largely inadequate considering our population, landmass and other demographic features... resulting in avoidable administrative bottlenecks

Sholagberu: A dream now reality In his response, the chairman of the board captured the sentiment of Islamic scholars and the generality of the Muslim community in the state when he described the governor’s move as the realisation of a long-time dream for Muslims. “It is an ambient opportunity to make enviable progress in order to re-programme and reposition Arabic education in the state,” he said, adding: “This is a long-time dream becoming a reality today. It is the dream of all Arabic scholars in the state. In view of this, I wish to assure the good people of Kwara State that we are not going to disappoint you. We shall demonstrate the required devotion and unfailing assiduity in ensuring that the aims and objectives for setting up the board are realised. “Our target therefore is to strive for excellence in improving Arabic education in the state and inculcate in our children sound behaviour and dignity of labour. Achievement of good and quality results would be the focus of members of the board and all stakeholders in the sector. It is time we join forces to wage a total war on all vices in education that strive to debase our values and respectability.” No doubt, these two steps taken by the governor will go a long way in helping his administration.

Politics 15

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

Ndoma-Egba battles for survival Senate Leader, Victor NdomaEgba, is in a stiff contest to retain his seat at the National Assembly in 2015. The battle for the Cross River Central Senatorial District is causing the senator a lot of worries, CLEMENT JAMES reports

he evolving scenario in the Central Senatorial District of Cross River State is a reminder of what transpired in 1983 when Akwa Ibom was still an integral part of the state. The late Dr. Clement Isong, an Ibibio from Eket, who was a onetime Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, had won an election as governor of the state in 1979. Incidentally, Dr. Joseph Wayas, from Obudu also in the state, was made the Senate President at the time. The romance between Isong and the federal lawmakers in Lagos, all of whom belonged to the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN), seemed to have blossomed until something went wrong. It bothered on the sharing of political offices and on who controls the party machinery in the state. It was not long before Wayas and Victor Akan, among other federal lawmakers, formed what was then known as “the Lagos front” in preparation to oust the governor, who was keen on going for a second term. While Wayas headed the Lagos Front, Governor Isong headed the “Home Front.” The impending election in 1983 was meant to test which of the “front” controlled the party machinery. At the primaries preceding the 1983 election, the Lagos Front won after ferrying in Donald Etiebet, an Annang man from the same “Mainland Area” (as the present Akwa Ibom was then known), to contest against Isong. Isong lost the battle and retired to his country home in Eket, while Etiebet, went on to rule for three months before Buhari/Idiagbon put a nail on his regime on the night of December 31, 1983. About 31 years after, history is about to replay itself. Apart from the governorship which has so far become an all comers affair, the central senatorial seat seems to have attracted the attention of political gladiators in the state. Although the Senator representing the Central District in the state, Victor NdomaEgba, who is also the Senate Leader, has consistently said his relationship with the governor, Senator Liyel Imoke, is in good stead, recent events is pushing analysts to take a second look at this claim. Before now, the governor and the senator were like a newly wedded couple whose love for each other was flaunted for all to see. Then came the story that the senator had capitalized on this relationship with the governor to “introduce” Mr. Goddy Jeddy-Agba, a former General Manager(Crude) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to Imoke “as the next governor.” As the story goes, this did not go down well with the governor who was said to have taken an exception to it. He reportedly told the Senate Leader: “Victor, I am still the governor. You will do well to allow me finish my tenure.” Ndoma-Egba has since denied that this incident ever took place, thus putting a cloud over what could have strained the relationship between the two friends. When early this year the Senate Leader empowered his constituents in Ikom, it took the Senate President, Senator David Mark to plead that Ndoma-Egba be returned to the Senate. In fact, not many people believed Imoke would attend the event. Yet, he came, though late. At the event, Mark had extolled the quali-

Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba acknowledging cheers from supporters during his visit to the secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Calabar to declare his intention to seek re-election

Where functionaries of the party take sides, it will be unacceptable. Some people in my senatorial district want to change the old sharing formula and there are dangers in this

ties of the Senate Leader, even calling him “my leader,” claiming that apart from the plenary, Ndoma-Egba “presides over other meetings while I sit down like any other senator.” He, therefore, called on the people to ensure that he returns to the Senate to continue his good works. After the event, Mark, Imoke and NdomaEgba had a closed door meeting in the Senate Leader’s house before they departed Ikom. It was assumed that the rift between them, if any, may have been resolved. But while the Senate Leader had all the while kept his cool, developments in recent times have stirred his angst, forcing him to accuse some state executive members of the party of attempting to frustrate his ambition. Ndoma-Egba, who was at the state secretariat of the party on Wednesday, October 8 to pick his intent form for the Senate, bared his fang on the state leadership of the party. His anger was visible, the wordings stern and he added a subtle threat. “Mr. Chairman,” he said as he turned to the State PDP Chairman who sat to his right. “I must appeal to you to call some of your executive members to order. I am a member of the National Caucus of our party, I am a member of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and I have had the privilege of working on the constitution of our party. I do not know where a decision was taken on the issue of consensus.” Not done, he said: “Mr. Chairman, as we go into the election, I appeal for neutrality. I appeal that the party be seen as being neutral. Where functionaries of the party take sides, it will be unacceptable. Some people in my senatorial district want to change the old sharing formula and there are dangers in this.” Replying, the party chairman, Ntufam John Okon said while he would not join issues with the Senate Leader, “I will only talk on what concerns us.” He disagreed with Ndoma-Egba that there was no consensus arrangement in the constitution of the party. He warned that the party will not hesitate to come down hard on any aspirant whose supporters take to violence. Okon, however, assured that “no lawmaker will be screened out unless he does not want to go again,” but quickly explained that everybody will have to face the people. Ndoma-Egba said for the first time in the history of the Senate, there has been stability at the upper chambers and he has played a key role in ensuring such stability, noting that it would be unwise for the state to trade

off the sensitive position of a Senate Leader. “Nobody can take my position. I have used all the opportunities in the Senate wisely. What I expect from my people is not to trade off a position that has taken the state 30 years since the period of Dr. Joseph Wayas to reach,” he said. But the question is, what will make the ever-confident Senate Leader to spit fire now when he has always had a smooth sail? The answer is not far-fetched. The rumour that has refused to die is that the decision of Hon. Owan Enoh, the lawmaker representing Etung/Obubra federal constituency to dump the green chambers for the Senate is influenced by external forces considered very powerful in the state. Apart from Enoh, a businessman, Frank Efa has indicated interest to contest for the Ikom/Boki Federal constituency. He picked his form at the state secretariat of the party on Friday, October 10, to show his seriousness. The implication of this is that, if Efa succeeds, the Senate position will leave Ikom, the Senate Leader’s immediate constituency. If Enoh sails through, that forecloses Ndoma-Egba’s ambition. The option therefore, is for the latter to mount pressure on the national leadership of the party. It can safely be said that the biggest fear of the Senate Leader is the talk about zoning in the state. Those who nurse this fear point to the fact that caucuses headed by very senior party men said to be loyal to the governor have been set up to operate side by side with the usual party caucuses headed by council chairmen, whose loyalty to the home front is now in doubt. But the party chairman has come out to say there is no intention to witch-hunt or sideline anybody, explaining that the caucuses were expanded “to bring in more people who have enough experience.” This explanation, to Senator NdomaEgba, does not suffice. He has described the action as wrong and illegal. The state party chairman agrees that the caucuses have no power to screen anybody but insist that what is done at the caucus level will be looked into by the state Exco. For the lawmaker, any attempt to carry out the zoning arrangement by the PDP in the state to select candidates is an indication that there is crisis in the party. As the clock ticks, the central senatorial district will be one axis in the state where interest will be high primarily because the hide and seek game now being played will come to the open when the hiding place is exposed. For now, the claim is that PDP is “one big family” in the state. This is where everybody stands until there is a yawning hole in the umbrella

16 Politics C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 3

the good for the goose is good for the gander played out after Jonathan’s endorsement last month. The list of endorsement continues to increase by the day after Jonathan got his clean passage. Some PDP governors anointed their possible successors and even drafted lists of candidates for legislative seats. In Enugu State, member representing Udenu/IgboezeNorth in the House of Representatives, and Chairman, House Committee on Marine Transport, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, was endorsed by Governor Sullivan Chime as the PDP candidate and this got the stamp of stakeholders in the state. The story is not different in Ebonyi State where Governor Martin Elechi endorsed the Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu as his possible successor. In Delta, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan is said to be backing behind a former permanent secretary in the state, Anthony Chuks Obuh, while Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State is said to have picked the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Udom Emmanuel as the party’s flag bearer. Similarly, some second-term seeking governors that have already gotten their state executives endorsement include: Ramalan Yero (Kaduna); the Acting Governor of Taraba State, Garba Umar; Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe); Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa). Also, the bid of some governors seeking to move to the Senate after the expiration of their terms has already been boosted by the senatorial structures of the PDP as they have been declared as the consensus candidates. Those in this bracket include: Akpabio (Akwa Ibom), Gabriel Suswam (Benue), Uduaghan (Delta), Saidu Dakingari (Kebbi), Theodore Orji (Abia), Chime (Enugu), Ibrahim Shema (Katsina), Aliyu (Niger), and Isa Yuguda (Bauchi).The Senate President, David Mark, who is seeking a fifth term in the Senate has also been anointed for the seat in Benue State. The revolt Unlike President Jonathan’s endorsement that had a smooth sail, nearly all the endorsements done at the state level went down with fights, evoking measures of imminent division and possible implosion if not looked into. Claims and counter-claims are the order of the day with the different interests itching for each other jugular. Open protests were staged and protests letters were written to condemn the action of the governors to endorse as opposed to party primaries. For instance, the purported endorsement of Udom by Akpabio met a brickwall with a former governor in the state, Obong Victor Attah taking his defence against the governor to the PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu in Abuja. Same goes for Enugu where Senator Ayogu Eze is shouting daylight

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

PDP’s double standard country. I contested against 57 people. So, I defeated 57 people to become the governor of Akwa Ibom State. “So, at the state level, once you have a lot of people showing interest in the governorship, it is good to allow a level playing field and give opportunity to all. It also helps democracy because it helps people to go out, propagate the ideas of the party and talk about what they would like to do for the electorate, sell themselves and the manifestos and from there the electorate would have the opportunity to pick the best out of the lot.”

Mark

Chime

robbery over the endorsement of Ugwuanyi. A crisis of interest is also brewing in Delta with the inferred support of Uduaghan for Obuh. Clearly, the party is sitting on the edge with these protests and with the opposition watching to cash in on the possible implosion, it is only left to be seen what the party leadership could bring to the table. The NWC hammer Perceiving that the outcome of the ventures embarked upon by its governors and state chapters may be counter-productive for the party in 2015, the PDP NWC last week issued a stern warning to the chapters and their chairman against endorsing any aspirant. At the end of its NWC meeting, the leadership of the party said it has voided the endorsement of governorship, senatorial and other candidates by the governors and state chapters, instructing the governors and state chairmen of PDP to cancel such endorsements. A statement by PDP National Secretary, Prof. Wale Oladipo said the governors and the state executives of the party should not through the endorsement deny other aspirants the level playing field of fair competition for the party’s ticket at the primaries.

The statement read in part: “The National Working Committee (NWC) noted that some elected officers of our great party at the state level have continued to engage in processes aimed at endorsing

Once you have a lot of people showing interest in the governorship, it is good to allow a level playing field and give opportunity to all

candidates for the 2015 general election despite warnings from the national leadership that they, as unbiased umpires should not involved in such. “The NWC strongly frowns at this development and issues this as a final warning to all elected party officials and chapters at all levels, and shall not hesitate to sanction such erring officers or chapters. “The NWC charges all our members and supporters therefore to disregard all such endorsements as the PDP will conduct primaries to duly elect our flag bearers in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act and the constitution of our great party.” Akpabio’s justification Akpabio, who is the chairman of PDP governors, said endorsement at the state level may be difficult because of the large number of aspirants. His words: “It is very difficult because of the large number of aspirants. If you have a large number of aspirants, it is good to allow all of them to go to the field and test their popularity. I did that; I am a product of good primaries. We were 58 in number in 2006; we were the highest in the

Provisions of Electoral Act

ccording to Section 87 (1) of the Electoral Act 2010 (As Amended), “A political party seeking to nominate candidates for elections under this Act shall hold primaries for aspirants to all elective positions.” In Section 87(2)(3) and (4), it states further that “the procedure for the nomination of candidates by political parties for the various elective positions shall be by direct or indirect primaries. “A political party that adopts the direct primaries procedure shall ensure that all aspirants are given equal opportunity of being voted for by members of the party. “A political party that adopts the system of indirect primaries for the choice of its candidate shall adopt the procedure outlined below:

“In the case of nominations to the position of presidential candidate, a political party shall hold special conventions in each of the 36 states of the federation and FCT, where delegates shall vote for each of the aspirants at designated centres in each state capital on specified dates, a national convention shall be held for the ratification of the candidate with the highest number of votes. “The aspirant with the highest number of votes at the end of voting in the 36 states of the federation and FCT, shall be declared the winner of the presidential primaries of the political party and the aspirants name shall be forwarded to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the candidate of the party after ratification by the national convention.”

Chime’s defence Chime has justified the adoption of a consensus candidacy, describing the process as democratic. He spoke on the choice of Ugwuanyi. “I do not see why any party at any level should be against negotiation. It cannot, under any circumstance, be described as undemocratic. “This is the most democratic thing, this is what lobbying is all about. We are not running contrary to the rules of the party; we are doing what the party encourages – dialogue. “In Enugu, we do not anoint candidates, we allow the people to speak. What we did was a feat. We achieved a feat,” he said. The governor said that Ugwuanyi would, nonetheless will go through party primaries to validate his choice as a consensus candidate. Moral burden of Jonathan’s endorsement For political pundits, the directive of the NWC comes with a moral burden to the effect to which the governors openly canvassing for Jonathan’s adoption and were in turn decline such luxury by the same leadership of the party that cheered their move in the first place. While some have fingered the presidency as the brain behind the annulment of endorsement at the state level, others simply averred that the party is simply trying to manage crisis ahead of its primaries especially with the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) waiting in the wings. With grapevine reports saying that the governors are already seeing themselves as being used and dumped by both the party and the presidency in ratifying Jonathan’s second term bid, it is only left to be seen whether the directive is for procedural reasons as against opposition to the governors’ choices of successor. From either side of the coin, it’s glaring that the new dimension of selection through endorsement as against the stipulated party primaries in the Electoral Law would create more interesting politicking within the parties, it is only left to be seen how the party would manage the ensuing crisis.

Politics 17

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

Chief Benjamin Okoko is a former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He is determined to govern Akwa Ibom State and had made three attempts at the governorship. In this interview with WALE ELEGBEDE, he speaks on his fourth governorship attempt in 2015, zoning, and his vision for the oil-rich state. Excerpts: You’ve contested the Akwa Ibom State governorship three times – 1999, 2003 and 2006 – but lost on the three occasions. What is motivating you for the fourth time? It is said that greatness is not in how many times you fall, but being able to rise each time you fall. The year 1999 is a story everybody knows. The 1999 election basically was supposed to have been a coronation for me as everything was set, but some leaders of the party approached and prevailed on me to withdraw my candidature. I accepted it without any condition. In 2003, I ran and the party decided that the incumbent should have a second term. In 2006 we had a crowd of about 60 aspirants. There was complete confusion, but the party decided it was Governor Godswill Akpabio that should have the ticket. He got the ticket and ran. In 2011, I didn’t run because I became wiser; I came to understand my party better knowing that it is not easy to run against the incumbent seeking a second term. In 2015, Governor Akpabio is finishing his second term, so I feel I have to come out. With the experience I have had in the previous times, I really understand the politics better this time. I am quite optimistic to be successful this time and four is my lucky number. What is your take on the issue of zoning in the state? I am not running because of zoning. I am running on my credentials as Benjamin Okoko for the governorship election. Talking about zoning, I want to say that it started with me. I made the supreme sacrifice for zoning. In 1998, the elders came to me

Okoko

Okoko: My aspiration built on ‘uncommon sacrifice’ and said they wanted to do zoning. When they brought the issue of zoning, I had my own idea about it. I accepted and advanced my reason and how I felt zoning should be done. For me, zoning is the basis of expanding and accommodating within the party. But the leader at that time felt zoning should be done at the level of senatorial district. I allowed it, but in the end, people were cleared to contest the primary but the leader prevailed that I should allow Obong Victor Attah to run; that they wanted to start zoning from Uyo senatorial district. I was 37 years old at that time. With that arrangement, Attah from Uyo senatorial district ruled for eight years. Governor Akpabio from Ikot Ekpene senatorial district is about to conclude his eighth years. I am yet to see anybody from Ikot Ekpene senatorial district coming to say he wants to run for governorship. Even when Uyo senatorial district was finishing its turn in 2007, there were still some people in Uyo senatorial district that came out to run, which was not right. Uyo senatorial district did governorship for eight years with Obong Attah; Ikot Ekpene senatorial district has done with Chief Akpabio. It should go to

Eket Senatorial district but anybody from Uyo senatorial district that wants to run the race is allowed to run; I will defeat him. Even if anybody from Ikot Ekpene senatorial district wants to run, allow him to run, I will defeat him. I am running on my own merit and pedigree. I don’t want any affirmative action to help me to be governor. But they will not be able because the charismatic personnel are still alive. The actors that were there in 1998/1999 are still around. We laid the foundation for the structure to prevail. If you want peace and order in the society which is the basis of development, then we should try and ensure accommodation within the polity. That is my position and I reason like a statesman. But that is not to say one is afraid of the contest; anybody is free to run. My aspiration is not because of Eket senatorial district even though the zoning is very right and correct. Anybody who wants to test his real strength should come and will be defeated. In the spirit of statesmanship, will you accept it if called to make another sacrifice? That time it was on the basis of zoning. For me, power is service. What will the party tell me now? Already the party has spoken. The party has said it’s zoned to my senatorial district. Now that you are coming out, what is your vision and blueprint for the state? Governor Attah was for resource control, Governor Akpabio uncommon transformation; Governor Benjamin Okoko’s administration will be uncommon sacrifice; that is my vision. How are you going to achieve or go about this uncommon sacrifice? It has to do with my own value of life. How do I see life? What do I want in life? For me, great societies are built on the sacrifices of people, at some point in time, who determine which way history must go. If water is flowing towards a specific direction, you can change its course. I like to go into history as the poorest man that left the Akwa Ibom Governor Lodge after my tenure a s

governor. What does that mean? I will give my all to the service of the people! Government will never have enough resources to do everything. So, 100 per cent resources of Akwa Ibom I will commit to the development and wellbeing of the people of the state. I hope that sacrifice of my stewardship will help the cause of our people and inspire others who will come after me to truly see that there is greatness in giving your own and greatness in poverty; that there is greatness in contentment. After my tenure, if I leave office with a pair of trousers, I wear it and I will be a happy man – very satisfied man. I will be a true soldier and die at my post provided the needs and welfare of the people of Akwa Ibom are met, and that is why I have christened my aspiration “uncommon sacrifice”. There is pressure on the incumbent to produce a successor and this is not hidden. Where do you stand here? The governor is not a traditional ruler; the governor is not a religious leader. The governor is not even a judge that should not take side. The governor is a politician, first and foremost. He is entitled to his own interest. As a politician, it is most unfair to expect a politician not to have interest. You come into politics with certain interests. For me, therefore, it is a legitimate right of every politician to take a position on any issue, to support any project, or vote on any issue of legislation. Democracy envisages those things and defines how they are resolved between the majority and the minority. It is legitimate for the governor or any politician to have his preference. Again, the people

I like to go into history as the poorest man that left the Akwa Ibom Governor Lodge after my tenure as governor. What does that mean? I will give my all to the service of the people!

will always have their say. The governor himself that takes that position knows that it is his own position; that a majority of the people will always have their way in democracy. If you look at the people in the race who want to succeed the governor now, anyone of them at one point or the other had sought the support of the governor – either they were working together with the governor or otherwise. And they did that conscious of the fact that the governor has the right to support anybody he wants. His vote is a strong vote because of the advantages of his position, but unfortunately, it is God that enthrones. And God is a very jealous God. At whatever position, anybody takes at the end, God will enthrone. What advice do you have for the people of the state ahead the 2015 general election? They should support Benjamin Okoko as the next Governor of Akwa Ibom State so that together, we will be able to build a state that will meet the needs and aspiration of future generation. I will unite the state, reconcile all groups, bring down political tension, contend with the insecurity situation, restore peace to the state and reach out to everybody. I will not leave anybody behind because Akwa Ibom needs us now more than ever before. The issue of unemployment, creation of wealth in the polity and industrialisation will be addressed through the provision of constant power supply during my regime. There is this believe that insecurity in the state in particular and country in general is due to the activities of politicians. What do you think? We have always had this issue of insecurity even during the period of the military. There were always cases of uprising here and there. Leadership is supposed to ensure and guarantee the safety of the citizenry. In a democracy that is made by politicians and run by politicians, the buck stops on their tables. They take responsibility. If the polity is doing well, the administration gets accolade for it. If they have problems, they get knocks for it. But I don’t think the political class will deliberately go out to create a situation that will bring the country to the point of this insurgency and insecurity that we have today. It is just unfortunate the situation we have found ourselves. The political leadership is doing everything possible about it. I have hope that at the end, Nigeria will overcome.

DELTA: Intriguing battle for PDP ticket on page 20

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion Between African leaders and their Western Counterparts Primus Igboaka

ake the case of Ebola outbreak and the story surrounding Thomas Eric Duncan, the first Ebola patient diagnosed in the United States who died last Wednesday from Ebola complications. Duncan, it was gathered, became infected after he helped a pregnant neighbour who later died from the disease. It is unclear if he knew about her diagnosis before traveling, but the media in the United States insinuated that he knew he had the infection but escaped from Liberia to travel to the United States. Interestingly, his own government, indeed the President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf was the first to implicate Duncan when she told the world that he (Duncan) would be prosecuted on his return. Rather than finding ways or means to offer him medical help, President Johnson Sirleaf was more interested in prosecuting Mr. Duncan. JohsonSirleaf was apologetic to the United States and the rest of the world, claiming that Duncan knew the state of his health before travelling to the United States. However, as CNN with ANDERSON COOPER was to reveal, in reality, Duncan was not even aware that he had contacted the virus before travelling to the United States. The said pregnant woman who later died from complications of Ebola disease was diagnosed of the virus after Duncan had left Liberia to see his son whom he had never seen since he was born. While it is a crime for anybody with symptoms of any deadly virus such as Ebola to travel across borders or within to spread the diseases knowing that he or she has it, it is an inhuman act and poor leadership for the president of a country, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf,

the President of the Republic of Liberia, to give up on her own citizen so conveniently and without shame or remorse tell the world that the government would prosecute a man that was battling with a deadly virus. President Johnson-Sirleaf showed and told the world that she does not care for and about her people. It is a pattern about African leaders treating their own people as if they were garbage that we repeatedly see and hear about. Whether it is in the provision public education, health care, housing or other social infrastructure for the overall well-being of the people, our leaders in Mother Africa scarcely act as if the people matter at all in their socio-economic calculations. It comes down to my question: what is the difference between African leaders and their Western counterparts? The answers are not far-fetched. In the West, the people are guaranteed of their government’s care and protection. They do not have to fight for their survival or protection; they don’t have to be watching their backs incessantly because the government is there to watch the people’s backs for them, to ensure that their enemies including infectious diseases like Ebola, do not invade them overnight and take them away like it did Duncan (may his soul rest in peace). In developed countries, the West in particular, the government protects and guarantees the people security 24/7. Unfortunately in Mother Africa and some other parts of the developing world, the people are on practically on their own, often left at the mercy of the vagaries of the socioeconomic environment. When your own government, which is supposed to protect you, turns round to threaten to put you on trial at the moment that you need the government, like a guardian angel, to protect you, when that government tells the world that you are worthless, it means

the world could do whatever they deem fit with your life and your security. If it is not with Duncan with the Ebola, it could be on another subject like immigration, education and intelligence where your own government gives you up when you need her most and like any abandoned property, others treat you with contempt and disrespect. However, the irony of the situation is that as the African adage says, when you spit up, the spit will eventually catch up with you. In essence, when African leaders allow other people to toy with the fate, destiny and security of their African people, the same world leaders that they expect to respect them would only hold them in contempt; they would see their African counterparts as morons who are not fit to be leaders of their people and, therefore, deserve no respect. Since they see that the African leaders don't care about their people, these world leaders assume that their African counterparts have a character flaws that could be exploit to their advantage. Because psychologically, something is lacking, else you will respect your people. As the saying goes, if you do not show respect to others, you do not deserve any. African leaders do not know that as they treat their people as trash so are they themselves held in disdain by their counterparts elsewhere in the world where leaders sleep and wake up only thinking about what to do to better the lot of their people. That is the lesson we must learn from JohnsonSirleaf ’s gaffe on Liberian Thomas Eric Duncan, who died of Ebola complications in Texas, United States, Wednesday last week. •Igboaaka (PhD), a one time National Concord in Lagos wrote from Cleaveland, Ohio, USA

Nuclear, fossil & renewable energy sources: Matters arising (2) Victor Amorha Continued from yesterday

e have records of construction and operational dysfunctions, stemming from inadequate sitting/ feasibility study when for example the technology of the turbines could not run on the gas available, or where delivery of turbines to site delayed as the access road is inadequate because the bridge would not withstand the weight of the turbines, or the power plant has insufficient gas supply to only 20% of quantity required to fire the plant, or the transmission line can take only 40MW out of 200MW generation capacity and so on. These are mostly very improbable stories! The cumulative production capacity of gas currently stand at about 1 bscfd (billion standard cubit feet per day) which can generate about 3,500MW of power. It is also important to know that if all the NIPP power systems which have a cumulative capacity of 4,775MW come on now, the available gas supply cannot fire them, and to compound the challenge is that in many cases, the existing gas pipeline infrastructure is very far from some of the plant locations. The reality of the current scenario trivialises the government’s national policy objective of generating 30,000 MW from gas fired power plant using 8 bscfd (billion standard cubic feet of gas per day) for open cycle turbines (or 5.5 bscfd for combined cycle turbines) by 2020! These reality scenarios imply there is need for holistic redesign and implementation structure for both the upstream and downstream power supply chain that require development of stranded gas harvesting

capacity, extension of gas infrastructure, expansion of the transmission line capacity and modernization of the distribution infrastructure currently bedeviled by obsolete substations and decrepit transformers. Based on report from the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, a lot of work is currently being done by Federal Government in re-engineering the gas supply infrastructure through ongoing implementation of some aspects of the Gas Master Plan which incorporate major critical gas pipeline backbone infrastructure connecting Niger Delta to the South West regions. To drive a sustainable commercial framework through effective gas pricing optimization concept, will encourage investors to secure bankable business plan for investment in gas infrastructure. The reassuring news is that every aspect of the activity in the power supply value chain is good business with high potential of creating employment and good profits. Curiously, it is not within public purview of any immediate plan for gas line extension to the South East hinterland, nor any strategic plan to exploit the huge commercial gas deposits in the South East of which the blocks are already farmed out to allottees. Power generation is strictly professional challenge that should be devolved from our traditional political gamesmanship. The technology of power generation, transmission & distribution does not understand the language of corruption, cronyism, settlement, partisanship or federal character. It should be put on the exclusive list where only expertise, performance and transparency will play key role. Unfortunately complex engineering development cannot thrive when standards of plans, processes and resource drivers are compromised. Our leaders must therefore take the bold step of un-strapping the existing institutional constraints, and within ten years, Nigeria will be exporting power to other nations using the richly available

fossil fuel and renewable energy sources without ever inching towards the Golgotha setting of nuclear power systems. The average investment cycle of a power plant is between 25 and 30 years, and there is need for firm assurance by government that fundamental parameters that guide investment decision will not be faulted. There should be concerted effort to encourage investors to take advantage of the World Bank Partial Risk Guarantee which was a brilliant initiative of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources in the Gas Master Plan as a confidence building technique of assuring payment to gas suppliers on continuous basis once delivery is made. With Nigeria’s economic potential, investors will be ready to put their stake as the Federal Government provides necessary incentives to reassure the financiers that our good word in the business is sacrosanct and screened off the vagaries of any form of manipulation. Environmental Issues as Fall-Outs from Fossil Power Sources I have taken a little time above to highlight that in Nigeria we are blessed with different types of natural resources, that can enable this country provide safe power supply that will drive domestic, commercial and industrial growth. It is important that we discus briefly the associated hazards arising from power generation. It is equally very important that the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) should be enabled with adequately skilled technocrats and tools to make the NERC role functional and productive. In the field of science and technology one can regulate only a system that one is very knowledgeable about. We have talked a lot about fossil power systems and this will most likely be the popular energy source in Nigeria. However, we should be conscious of the hazards and inefficiencies occasioned by poorly engineered power plants. In gas, oil and coal fired plants, a core efficiency component

is the degree and quality of combustion. How many millions of cubic feet (mmcf) of Gas or barrels of Oil or tons of Coal will generate 1MW of power when referenced to operational best practices adopted internationally? Also when the combustion is not efficient, there is also the high risk of environmental pollution which may result in dangerous emissions that are toxic to human and terrestrial lives. Every care should be taken to ensure that investors are not just relocating inefficient plants cquired at virtually no cost, that were retired from the developed nations, only to get them nominally refurbished and installed in Nigeria to create a new dimension of pollution. China has evolved tremendous growth in the past thirty five years where the GDP has made a whopping increase from 147 billion USD in 1978 to 9.2 trillion USD in 2013, and is currently maintaining a global status as the second largest economy to US. This leapfrog in economic growth is because of the massive industrialization through those years. However, a current study shows that in the past ten years, the incident of lung cancer has more than doubled in Beijing and this was traced to the toxic emissions from the power and other industrial plants which are mainly coal fired. Wang Huiyao, head of Beijing-based Centre for China and Globalisation think thank exclaimed: “How shocking! This number doesn’t even include the floating population…in the past ten years, the number of smokers and smoking areas have decreased”. China’s huge industrial sector which employs about 100 million people has gone unregulated for years and the air has become excessively polluted. Most of the plants’ engineering did not take cognizance of imposing limits in the amount of toxic emissions, which now constitute severe environmental health hazard for the citizens. • Engr Victor Amorha, Chartered Engineer & Management Consultant and MD SAVIC

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

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The internal displacement crisis

he UN SecretaryGeneral, Ban Ki-moon, while addressing the yearly meeting of the organisation’s High Commissioner for Refugees’ Governing Executive Committee in Geneva recently, called on countries around the world to do more to prevent forced displacement, address its root causes and support solutions for those affected by it at a time of multiple crises. He said: “Never before in United Nations history have we had so many refugees, displaced people and asylum-seekers. Never before has the United Nations been asked to reach so many with emergency food assistance and other life-saving support. Some of the challenges are on the front pages. Others are far from the headlines. In Iraq and Syria, we see new depths of barbarity with each passing day, and devastating spillover effects across the region. These include people fleeing from war and civil strife from the Central African Republic to northern Nigeria; from the Horn of Africa to the Sahel.” In Africa, more than two million people have been forced to leave their homes this year alone, the result of wars and other forms of internal strife, which have seen the refugee and the internallydisplaced-persons populations on the continent balloon continually. More than one third of that

is found in Nigeria. Part of the problem stems from the fact that wars and or conflicts are seemingly prosecuted these days without rules, leading to conscienceless attacks on civilian populations. Besides armed attacks, there are also sexual abuses—rapes, sodomy and other forms of sexual perversions—that are inflicted on civilian populations during wars or conflicts. The result is that wars and or conflicts not only produce huge populations of internally displaced persons but that those so displaced also experience gross human rights violations in the process and are, therefore, often psychologically traumatized and disoriented. The heart-rending sight of Iraqi religious minority group the Yazidis—men and women, children and teenagers, old and young-stranded on Mount Sinjar in the Iraqi north-west region as they struggled to avoid mass slaughter of their population by the Sunni extremist group ISIS did a lot to spur the United States and other powers to launch the current air strikes against ISIS targets in Irag and Syria. The displacement of hundreds of thousands in Nigeria’s North-east region in the wake of Boko Haram attacks have also spurred international condemnations and calls for assistance for the displaced persons here. It is against this background that Ban Ki-moon constantly speaks about

the imperative of the international community coming together to confront both the cause and effects of these crises so as to stem the burgeoning tide of human suffering in the conflict zones of the world. He insists that “this requires greater resources and more political leadership…as well as unprecedented cooperation by the international community.” Especially so for Nigeria. With 3.3 million internally displaced persons (IDPs), Nigeria has the largest population of persons displaced by conflict in Africa, a report released recently has revealed. The report, “Global Overview 2014: people internally displaced by conflict and violence,” by the Internal Displaced Monitoring Centre (IDMC) and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) stated that the number of internally displaced persons in Nigeria is approximately a third of the IDPs in Africa and 10 per cent of IDPs in the world. While the report noted that displacement is caused by a connection of interrelated factors, it highlighted violence, flood and storms as the main cause of displacement in Nigeria, stressing that “violence, abuses, and forced evictions all add to the conflict-mix in many of these situations. According to the report, 470,500 persons were displaced in Nigeria in 2013 alone placing it as the country with the third highest number of

displaced persons in the world. Nigeria is only ranked behind Syria with 6.5 million IDPs and Colombia with 5.7 million IDPs. The report observed an increase in attacks by the extremist Boko Haram, heavy-handed counter insurgency operations and ongoing inter-communal violence as reasons for the unprecedented rise in IDPs in Nigeria in 2013. To swiftly address the situation, we urge that all hands be on deck to quickly bring the war on terror to an end. Similarly, communal clashes and misunderstanding must be resolved through dialogue and roundtable discussions. Moreover, effective plans to check natural disasters should be put in place, while factors that could lead to internal friction must be peacefully dealt with before they morph into untoward situation. And while their troubles last, those in refugee camps must be well catered for and resettled or integrated back to the society as soon as possible. But, more importantly, we call on governments, NGO’s, religious bodies and educational institutions among others, in Nigeria, to work collectively and assiduously to ensure that situations that often lead to violence and internal conflicts, which result in displacement of persons, are always nipped in the bud before they develop into monstrosities that may, in the long run, prove too difficult to contain.

Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief n Eric Osagie Deputy Managing Directors n Gabriel Akinadewo

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Politics

Obuh

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Uduaghan

Orubebe

Delta: Intriguing battle for PDP ticket Ahead of the 2015 governorship election in Delta State, a lot of intrigues and horseplay continue to accompany the choice of who gets Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket. ETAGHENE EDIRIN reports

ike every political party across the states of the country, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State is in the process of picking its candidate for the February 28, 2015 gubernatorial election. Already, various aspirants drawn from the three senatorial districts of the state are currently strategizing, consulting, mobilising, aligning and re-aligning to emerge as the preferred candidate to fly the party’s ticket. Some are seriously in the race hoping to be the next governor of the ‘Big Heart’ state, while others are making whatever noise they can of the contest, to remain relevant in the scheme of things, or as a platform to negotiate for favours, or a political appointment when the chips are down, so that they are all called to the discussion table. Unlike other political parties in the state, who have only one or two prominent members to choose from, the PDP in Delta State has a good number of politicians who can be regarded as top notch vying to fly its ticket for the forthcoming gubernatorial election. This is made more so given that it is the party in power in the state, and has been able to empower its members to enable them vie for such elective offices. The frontrunners jostling for the party’s ticket include Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Elder Godsday Orubebe, Chief Ovie Omo-Agege and Sir Anthony Obuh, who is rumoured in some quarters as the anointed one. Others in the race are Hon. Victor Ochei, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, Chief Godswill Obielum, Ndudi Elumelu, Chief Solomon Ogba and Saliba Umukoro. The women folk are not left out as Ngozi Olejeme and Esther Uduehi have also stepped up activities to occupy the Government House, Asaba. Already, covert campaigns in the name of consultations, rallies and all manner of political activities have thrown up pockets of clashes and violence in some parts of the state, as supporters of the aspirants have thrown caution to the wind in projecting their principals. The intrigues are further heightened by the peculiarity of zoning debate within the

party, and the insistence by certain zones that they deserve to produce the governor in the next dispensation. Since creation of the state, Delta North has not produced the governor while Delta Central and South have had turns through Olorogun Felix Ibru, Chief James Ibori and Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, the incumbent governor. This debate is mostly put forward by the Urhobo tribe, who occupy the Delta Centre zone, and form a majority of the population in the state. Their argument usually centres on the fact that since democracy is a game of numbers, they have the largest number of votes to determine who should be governor. They also argue that the senatorial district was cheated by the Ibrahim Babangida military administration when it cited the capital in Asaba upon creation of the state. And that since the capital is with north senatorial district, it would be unfair for the governor to also come from that district, which would amount to double advantage for that part of the state, against the other two senatorial districts. However, proponents of the zoning formula opine that in the interest of justice and equality, the governorship should move round all zones. They also argue that the area from which a person comes does not necessarily guarantee that he would put up a creditable performance in the discharge of the duties of a governor, ensuring even development for all parts of the state. According to them, merit, experience and capability to do the job should be the determining factors, rather than ethnicity. Although the party in the state has never formally acknowledged the zoning formula, it was inadvertently put in place when former governor Ibori singlehandedly ensured that his cousin, who is the incumbent governor, got the ticket in 2007, against all opposition. And so, now the only zone which has not produced the governor is basing its argument on that to agitate for the slot. But then, the Urhobos of Delta Central, through Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) have taken a reasoned decision that they will present a candidate of their choice to run for the office of governor, while the Aniomas of Delta North have similarly dug in their heels that it is their turn to produce the next governor. This is even as candidates from Delta South Senatorial District have not totally given up. A new dimension was added to the politics of 2015 in the state, especially as it concerns the PDP when rumours emerged that Obuh,

Many are of the view that whoever gets the PDP ticket may end up the governor of the state, which has heightened the struggle

permanent secretary, Government House who recently resigned his position has been anointed by the powers that be to take over from Uduaghan. Many argue that such a decision, if it turns out to be true would not be fair to long time active members of the party like Senator Okowa, who had to step down for Uduaghan in 2007, in the interest of the party; Ochei, who was recently dropped from his speakership position; and Orubebe to now give way to Obuh, who, until last month was a civil servant in the state civil service. The Urhobos are reportedly also offended by the rumoured anointment of Obuh, and current indications suggest that most of the other candidates have resolved to fight against the imposition. The intrigues surrounding who gets the ticket may not end with just a rumour that it may be given to Obuh. Some are of the view that the incumbent governor and the kingmakers in the state, who call the shots may yet have a preferred candidate, and that they may have only sold a dummy to keep the pressure from their choice candidate, who may be presented at the last minute, and catch people unawares, so as to reduce any opposition that may arise when the main candidate is unveiled. Added to that, it is well known that former Governor Ibori, although in prison in London, serving out his term upon conviction on money laundering charges, still plays a major role in the politics of the state, will also have a say on who gets the PDP’s ticket. Although physically absent, Ibori’s influence still looms large in the political scene in the state. His foot soldiers who are very much on ground, and hold strategic positions within the party, still remain loyal to him, and are ever willing to do his bidding, upon instruction from him. Many are of the view that whoever gets the PDP ticket may end up the governor of the state, which has heightened the struggle. This is more so since Chief Great Ogboru, who has continually challenged the PDP for the governorship position in the state, is yet to make known his intention, whether or not he will contest the 2015 election. He is the only one regarded to have the wherewithal, and popularity to challenge the PDP in Delta State. Until November 29 which the party has slated for the conduct of its primary elections, everyone will have to wait to see which way the party intends to go; whether it will give the ticket to a thorough bred politician, a technocrat, or an egg-head. That is also when it would be revealed if it intends to adhere to the zoning formula, or it would let the popular will prevail.

NEW TELEGRAPH tuesday, OCTOBER 14, 2014

Film: Kick like a Girl

Arts

Atta, Oteh team up for premiere of Last Stand

Jos Repertory Threatre in performance

Stories by Tony Okuyeme

laywright Sefi Atta and theatre director Patrick-Jude Oteh, team up for the production of Last Stand, this November. Featuring the acclaimed Jos Repertory Theatre, the play premieres at Terra Kulture, , Victoria Island, Lagos, on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2014, with showings at 3p.m. and 6p.m. Last Stand is the first in a new series of modern Nigerian family dramas written by Atta, and the play is about a battle of wills between a dying general and his estranged heirs. When General Mashood Balogun on his deathbed decides to leave his estate to his first son Rotimi, bypassing his daughters, he creates uproar in his family. Rotimi, a medical doctor, refuses to step into his father’s shoes, and his father stands firm in his bid to make Rotimi his successor. As the Balogun family conflict plays out, Rotimi in

TONY OKUYEME tony.okuyeme@newtelegraphonline.com

Theatre: Hang up and Drive for road safety 22

Last Stand is the first in a new series of modern Nigerian family dramas written by Atta

the end is forced to look after his dying father. But who will win the final face-off between father and son? Patrick-Jude Oteh is a trained theatre director and holds a Master of Theatre Arts and a Master of International Law and Diplomacy, with an emphasis on international economic law. He is the founding artistic director of the Jos Repertory Theatre as well as the festival producer of the annual Jos Festival of Theatre currently in its ninth season. He holds fellowships with the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington D.C., the Brademas Center for the Study of Congress at New York University, and the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP). Sefi Atta is the author of novels Everything Good Will Come (2005), Swallow (2010), A Bit of Difference (2013), and the short story collection News From Home (2010). Her radio plays have been broadcast by BBC Radio, and her stage plays have been produced internationally. Her recent stage credits include her one-act plays The Naming Ceremony, which was directed by IfeomaFafunwa and premiered at London’s Theatre Royal Stratford Eastin 2012, and Hagel auf Zamfara, which was directed by Nick Monu and finished its two-year run at Germany’s Theatre Krefeld in 2013.

NICO Diploma students stage The Conversion, Simbi D

rama is a mirror of reality and the actor needs to transport his viewers from the point of illusion on stage onto a state of reality in the larger society. The Head, Academics of the Training School, National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Dr. Dipo Kalejaiye stated this in his remark at the Lecture Hall 2 of the NICO Training School Complex, National Theatre Annex, Lagos, during a practical session on the course, Nigerian Cultural Industries, where three of his plays were dramatised by the Diploma students. The objective of the event, according to him, was to make students see and feel the expectations and frustrations of drama, and commended their performance as they displayed mastery of their lines. The first play, titled, “The Conversion,” depicted the cultural dilemma of Chief Elemo, who, on conversion from traditional religion to Christianity, marries a literate and younger second wife that doubles as his Personal Assistant/Bible Teacher. However, with time, the new wife exhibits her intolerance and inordinate ambition to become the only wife, exhibiting lack of respect for elders, as she even slaps the first wife, who happens to be old enough to be her mother. At the end of the day, these shocking attitudes identified with the new religion give Chief Elemo food for thought and a rethink of what cultural values to hold on to as relevant

A scene in the play

to his immediate society. The second play, “Simbi,” was adapted from Yoruba folklore about a beautiful damsel, Simbi, who prefers to blindly love a stranger instead of marrying the prince and other desirable men from her kind; but she discovers, too late, in the course of her cultural misadventure, that all that glitters is not gold. The third play, “Deer Woman of Owo,” delves on the importance of guarding priceless cultural values, which can be lost forever if not carefully protected. It is the story of a woman deeply loved by an Owo king because of her good behaviour; but she was lost to the jealousy of the two other Oloris – the palace wives of the king. Commenting of the third play, “Deer Woman of Owo,” Festival Arts Specialist and Lecturer, Mr. Law Ezeh, stated that an annual festival, called, the Igogo Festival, is still held in Owo kingdom in honour of the departed Deer Queen of Owo till date. There is no gainsaying that, good performance and excellent delivery of the messages behind the dramas by the highly motivated students, adorned with colourful costumes, left in the audience deep and positive impressions about the importance of Nigerian cultural values. The theatre experience during the Lectures/Drama Session, which students have tagged: “September Acts to Remember,” was indeed a slice of real life.

Art

Tuesday, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

US Consulate screens films to inspire the girl child

A scene in recent production of Hear Word on stage in Lagos

Ebere Ameh

ick Like a Girl, and The Queen and the Carpet Girl and excerpts from Ifeoma Fafunwa’s Hear Word were some of the films screened at the US Embassy, Lagos as part of the activities for the 2014 International Day of the Girl Child recently. Kick Like a Girl is about the Cheetah Girls football team, which rose from obscurity and fear to greatness as they beat the boys team in the boys league. Set in the United States, the film is designed to inspire young girls to aspire for greatness and excellence. With a concept that involves athletics and academic excellence, it aims to help girls challenge traditional impediments that stand on their way to success. Speaking to the girls from different secondary schools who participated in the programme, Public Affairs Officer at the Consulate, Mrs Rhonda Watson encouraged the girls not to listen to the voice inside of them that say they are incapable. “In whatever you do, do not listen to the voice that says you can’t do it, you are from the

wrong neighbourhood or your parents are poor. None of those are excuses unless you choose to listen to that voice. Sometimes, the voice does not come from you but from your family members who tell you girls don’t do that. People put limitations on us but what we learn from this film is that the girls did not allow any limitation to hold them back, they decided to be winners.” The Queen and the Carpet Girl on the other hand is a Moroccan film that tells the story of Hadijah, a poor rural little girl who could not go to school because she had to work in a carpet factory to earn a dollar a month for her family. Khadijah was one year old when her mother died, and five years when her step-mother took her and her sisters to work in the carpet factory, where other rural poor little girls in the country worked. Deprived of education, they worked in very unfavourable conditions, standing up from 6am to 8pm with only an hour break. “We always pray for God to give us death not life,” Kadijah said of the hellish condition they had to endure.

Kick Like a Girl is about the Cheetah Girls football team, which rose from obscurity and fear to greatness

Khadijah’s story changed when she was discovered by Fatema Ben Brik, a social worker who fishes out these underaged girls and tries to convince their parents to send them to school. Providence smiled on Kadija when Queen Rania of Jordan, a UNICEF advocate came to the rescue of some of the carpet girls of Morocco, assisting them to start schooling. Khadijah recounts how she was stigmatized by other girls from well off families when she newly started school. “We don’t talk to carpet girls,” they would say to her, leaving her to herself while they played. “But she was undeterred. In two years, she could read and write and wants to be a medical doctor,” her teacher said. Speaking on the issue of child labour, which is a reality in many developing countries across the globe, Queen Rania said; “It is never too late, these problems can be solved. It takes intervention; it takes good will and the right policy for it to work.” Earlier at the event, snippets of Ifeoma Fafunwa’s play Hear Word was screened, showing the

rampant sexual abuse of little girls by adult men in the society and depicting the trauma the girls have to endure and the conspiracy of silence that normally follows even when they tell an older person. There were inspirational speeches by renowned Nigerian women, spoken word and other activities, even as the case for the missing Chibok girls was also discussed. On December 19, 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 66/170 to declare 11 October as the International Day of the Girl Child, to promote girls’ human rights, highlight gender inequalities that remain between girls and boys and address the various forms of discrimination and abuse suffered by girls around the world. Sequel to that, countries, organizations and even individuals have continued to mark the day in different ways using different means, all geared towards drawing attention to the unique challenges faced by the girl child. With this year’s theme as Empowering adolescent girls: Ending the cycle of violence, the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, in his address said: “On this International Day of the Girl Child, I call on all governments to take action to end all forms of violence against girls in all parts of the world. Together, we must create a world where violence against women and girls is never tolerated and girls are always empowered to reach their full potential.” The streaming of the films was part of the activities put together by the US Consulate, Lagos, on Thursday October 9, 2014, to kick-start the celebration.

Hang up and Drive, theatre for road safety awareness Tony Okuyeme

he power of theatre can be used as a veritable medium for sociocultural reorientation, information dissemination as well as education was brought to the fore recently in Lagos, with the stage presentation of Hang up and Drive. The event was the Amber Awareness Dinner held at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, organized by Steerite Driving School in partnership with Hybrid Consulting Limited to consolidate on traditional yearly “Ember Months campaign” which holds towards the last quarter of the year. Themed “Road Safety Enforcement: Where Are We?”, the overall aim is to pre-

vent and reduce the rate of crashes in our society as well as build a positive and defensive road safety culture that will enhance the quality of lives of Nigerians. “We intend through this event to initiate and expand commitment and collaboration in road safety across critical institutions such as the Military, Airforce, Navy, DSS, NCDC, LASTMA, and other stakeholders at State and Federal levels,” Dapo Omolade, the organizer of the event said. There were several presentations on the for road safety awareness as Hang up and Drive’ well as what government draws attention to causes of is doing and can do to nip in the bud, the high rate road accidents, attitudes and of accidents on our roads. MD/CEO, Steerite Driving recklessness of drivers School Limited, Mr. Akin-

The artistes in performance of Hang up and Drive

fe Samuel, Lagos State Commissioner for Transport, Comrade Kayode Opeifa, Prof. Iyiola Oni, among other dignitaries, in their addresses spoke on the theme which is “Road Safety Enforcement: Where are We?”.

With music by Kunle Sax, there was indeed no dull moment. The highpoint of the show was a performance by a set of energetic and talented young group of performers who engage the audience in a thought-provok-

ing and entertaining play Hang up and Drive. Originally written and directed by Joshua Alabi and (co-writer) Jide Adeyemi for Ajidans Studio, ‘Hang up and Drive’ draws attention to causes of road accidents, attitudes and recklessness of drivers and their common habits. Some of the habits include pinging on the road while walking, receiving or making calls or drinking while driving and so on. The play also lampoons the government for not providing goods roads, basic transport systems and, what they believe is “lack of effective road enforcement officers”. The misconduct of drivers and passer-by which leads to distraction and refusal to obey traffic rules were all discussed in this play. The various enactments play drew ovation from the audience.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014

Mom&Parenting

Living with HIV/AIDs, begging for aid

Obius, National treasurer

The ART drugs

Edowh

With the emergence of Ebola Virus Disease, EVD, little is heard about HIV/ AIDS again. It is quite understandable, probably because it is a disease that an individual can control and prevent if possible. Not so with EVD that fast destroys the immune system and eventually takes lives. The issue at hand is the stigma that trails the victims of these diseases. Worst hit are the people living with HIV/ AIDs, as the stigma lives on with them day-by-day and likely to go with them into their graves. The stigmatisation is not only perpetuated by the common individuals, but also health workers who are supposed to be informed and show care according to the oaths of their office. OLUWATOSIN OMONIYI writes on her recent encounters with victims

ajority of them didn’t design the fate within which they are confined in. Some are victims by by sheer carelessness; some by ignorance and some by their ‘wicked’ spouses, become permanently sentenced to the world of HIV/AIDS. Such is the case of Ajoke Ajose(not real name) living somewhere in Ketu. Ajose is a local fashion designer and petty kerosene seller, who has been married to one Isiaka, a top member of

Team Oluwatosin Omoniyil Coordinator

Grace Essen l Contributor

NURTW, for 13 years with the normal smiling and fun of marriage. But five years ago, she got more than she bargained for in the marriage. According to her, they were two of them married to her husband but none of them knew early that their husband has tested positive to HIV. Ajose said she was cock sure that her husband infected her and her mate(second wife) because during her first and second pregnancy when she went for the test, she tested negative, same with her mate, but five years ago, when she got pregnant with the third pregnancy, she tested positive. She was asked to come with her husband but he refused to go. “Instead, he heaped the blame on me and asked me to go and

We asked her to go to a government hospital, where they have equipment for people of her status but she refused. She claimed that she could no longer move.

sort myself out. He broadcasted me to everyone who cared to listen and that was how I lost that pregnancy,” she said. Ajose added that her mate, Farida(not real name) was forced to go for the test upon hearing her own ordeal and tested positive. “ It was Farida and some members of the family, who dragged our husband to the government hospital. It was during interrogation and much cajoling that our husband opened up. He said all sort of things, how he has been promiscuous and careless about his wellbeing. He does not go to the salon for proper hair cut and pedicure. He does his pedicure and hair cut at the garage from the hawking mallams.” More painful for these wives is that, after the man had known his status, he still comes home and sleep with them unprotected. “It means he was intentional with his wickedness,” Farida said. Also in a private hospital at Ketu Alapere, a pregnant woman was in labour for five hours, shouting and tearfully pleading, “Aunty nurse, please help me. I beg you in the name of God, help me.” Suddenly, she screamed at a passing nurse to help her to the toilet; that she was pressed to use the toilet. The nurses looked on without a tint of sympathy. Then the gear of the noise changed

into a shriek and uncontrollably squat down to do her toileting at the reception. Lo and behold, first, water broke out, faeces followed suit, then a dark hair showed forth, then she pushed further and the rest of the baby came out. Still, the nurses neither went closer nor offered to help. In fact, they disappeared from the scene. However, with the help of a passer-by, she delivered her baby by herself, cut the umbilical cord and wrapped the baby. After the drama, she cursed the nurses and the hospital, strapped the baby to her back and left. Upon inquiry, New Telegraph found out that the nurses refused to attend to the woman because she was HIV/AIDS positive and her vulnerable level was very high. “We asked her to go to a government hospital, where they have equipment for people of her status but she refused. She claimed that she could no longer move. There is nothing we can do to help her and I don’t want my people here to get infected because of sentiment,” the matron said. It was a similar scene at IfakoIjaiye General hospital, Lagos, where an HIV positive pregnant woman cried out her eyes. She was not given a bed to deliver her baby. According to a nurse, the woman had been given a CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

Mom&Parenting

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Challenges facing women and children living with PLHIV

with

Grace Essen

grace.essen@yahoo.com

CO NTINUED FRO M PAG E 23

space to squat down and deliver her baby for N45, 000, which is even cheap. New Telegraph learnt that that is the practice to HIV/AIDS pregnant women, who are not rich enough to pay for both medical attention and bed space. Doctor Omoyele Kolawole , a consultant gynaecologist with the hospital, said it was white lie. He countered the claim saying that for normal delivery, the cost is a little above N20,000 while surgery delivery costs N50,000. He explained that in the case of an HIV/AIDS pregnant woman, the hospital authority usually asked them if they prefer normal to surgery or vice versa but with explanation that the risk of the infant contracting the disease is high with normal delivery while it is safer with surgery. “So the issue of asking them to squat down and deliver their babies is blatant lie,” he said. He added that, “we are very considerate in this hospital especially with unbooked cases and in the case where there are no enough bed spaces; we refer them to Ikeja General Hospital.” Grace Edowh(not real name) a volunteer health worker has been a patient of HIV/AIDS for five years going. She also discovered her status when she was pregnant. For days, she couldn’t tell her fiancé her new status. Eventually, she did and when she did, she had a miscarriage. The man according to her, nearly brought down the roof on her head. How he remained negative despite the fact that they courted for three years remains a miracle and that made him feel vindicated that she was indeed wayward. “To him, I was wayward and as such got my reward,” she said. Hakeem lost the relationship and close family friends whom her fiancé told. To add salt to her injury, she said the government hospital where she received drugs was also not helping as they were never ready to listen to her complaint and they were neither friendly nor willing to assist her with counselling. Yinka Adegbesan lost her job because of her positive status. The day her boss knew, “she changed her attitude towards me; she became mean all just to chase me out of her company,” she said. Not only that. Adegbesan complained about the harsh way the health officials attend to her and some other HIV/ AIDS patient. “Even when I complained about the drug’s reaction, they did not bother to inquire further into it or counsel me. The doctor just told me to continue using the drug that with time, my body will adjust to the drugs,” she said. According to her, the church she attends ostracized her and chased her out; her husband ran away. Luckily for her, she doesn’t have a kid yet.

MOM’S ALERT

Tips for a successful school year

Attah, National Coordinator

The above mentioned cases are few out of many out there. Some are bold to tell of their status and bear the consequence of speaking out- stigmatisation, while others rather perish in silence. Many are the challenges facing women living with HIV/AIDS. It ranges from stigmatisation to nonavailability of drugs and substandard drugs given to them. According to Lucy Attah, the National Coordinator for Network of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, a nongovernmental organization, majority of people living with HIV in Nigeria, who are supposed to be on drugs are not because of excuses ranging from faulty CD4 machines, strikes,e.t.c. Attah during a press briefing last week, said that the CD4 count machines, which are key to HIV treatment are most of the time faulty and out of service. She added that the quality of ART drugs available is no longer the same. “In fact, it is substandard with changes of manufacturer’s every month, some drugs break like chalk. It’s very rare to get the same drug received by anybody on second line drug for the next appointment,” she said. Attah stated further that drug adherence becomes problem because of the money involved. “PLHIV (people living with HIV/AIDs) who are taking single doses of these ART now buy; abacavir, lamivudine ,nevirapine and zidovudine with fee of over N25,000 making monthly drug adherence difficult and the whole wellbeing of positive living hangs on 90 to 95 per cent drug adherence,” she said. Regarding the viral loads machine, Priscilla Ingbian, secretary of the NGO, said less than eight centres in the country can boast of functional viral load

machine. “Some of the PLHIV, who are on drugs for more than seven years never have access to this test machine because the charges ranges from N25, 000 to N30, 000, which is one of the factors hampering effort towards attaining PMTCT in Nigeria,” she disclosed. Blessing Obius, national treasurer for Network of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, told New Telegraph that the way hospitals treat them is too shabby. “If you are down now and you go to the hospital, you are on your own because no doctor will see you. They will tell you to go and die or go wait for your judgment day which is very bad. The treatment is getting poorer by the day; reason we want government to come to our aid so that people will not start dying untimely,” she said. Obius stated further that the challenges facing PLHIV include lack of proper follow up. She explained that majority of PLHIV are discouraged due to large number of patients, depression, confusion and most times nurses are so occupied to help. The group called on government to come to their aid by supporting them with the drugs, CD4 counts and Viral loads machines replacement. The group also asked that PLHIV, who have higher level of education should be trained to assist in all facility offering HIV services. “There should be free pregnancy and child birth services to all women and infant feeding support to PLHIV mothers where necessary from our government to help curtail MTCT of HIV. And secondary PLHIV mothers who have undergone the process successfully should be trained as volunteers or mentor mothers for incoming or newly identified pregnant HIV positive women.”

ou would agree that a lot goes into achieving a successful transition from summer holiday to a full-fledged school routine. For kids, stress can accompany new classes, new teachers, new friends, and new academic hurdles. There is even more stress for kids who are changing schools or going to school for the first time. How can you help make the new school year a lot easier for them? Let’s take a look at how you can start a successful school year and keep it going smoothly! Begin by meeting your child’s teacher and establishing some form of working relationship for the good of your child. Exchange contacts phone, email etc and get a copy of the school lunch menu (if applicable), school calendar, time table and other activities. This will also be available on the school website. To ensure your children have the best chance at doing well in school, make sure they follow healthy habits. Choose a bedtime that will give them plenty of sleep, provide a healthy breakfast each morning, and also make provision for mid day snack or lunch while at school. Encourage exercise, and don’t be afraid to cut back on the amount of time they spend watching TV, playing video games, listening to music, or using the computer. Watch for emerging signs of stress. If your children show any sign of stress, you may need to reevaluate their schedules. Most kids respond well to routines that help them organise their days. In my home, for instance, my children make their beds, get dressed, and eat breakfast while I make sure their school bags are properly packed with completed homework, writing materials and water bottles. When they get home in the afternoon, I serve them snack and they do their homework while I prepare dinner. Our routines may differ, but the key is to make it the same every day so children know what to expect and adjust to them. Create a little space where your children can store items they need for school each day and keep them organised - a place for backpacks, extra school supplies, school projects etc. Everyone will know just where to find everything during the morning rush. Some call it a ‘launch pad’ while others call it a ‘staging area.’ A designated homework space often makes it easier and more fun for children to complete their assignments with less stress. A desk is great, but some have found that a clean

space on the rug, under good lighting works just as well. Home education is still a critical part of their overall learning experience. Some of the attitude of parents is that it’s up to the schools and teachers to figure it all out, to make sure children are learning and are safe, but there is only so much teachers can do. Parents have to fill in with good support as well. Look for ways to teach your children throughout the day. For example, cooking combines elements of math and science, time when you arrange items can be an opportunity to count, to discuss fractions, addition and subtraction, eg. “If I have three shoes and I take away one, how many do I have left?” Your child will figure that out faster. I know a father who teaches his little children to count while climbing the staircase everyday! Children learn by example. Let your kids ‘catch’ you reading. While your kids do their schoolwork, you can read or do some other work (that will depend on their age though). When I announce to my children it’s time to read, I am already in front of my computer or with a book. If you display a strong work ethic and continually show the desire to learn, your kids will begin to model that same behaviour in their own lives. Find out how your children feel about their classrooms, their teachers, their classmates and the school. Talk with them about what they like and don’t like at school. Give them a chance to express their anxieties, excitements, or disappointments about what goes on in school, and continue to support and encourage them by praising achievements and efforts. Also you may need to discuss some of the issues with the class teachers or school authority. Don’t limit your support to your children only, extend it to their teachers as well. Stay in regular contact by phone or e-mail so you can discuss any concerns that may arise. Not only will it pave the way for you to ask questions, but it will also make the teachers more comfortable to call you when they have concerns about your children. Be clear about what you expect. Set goals together for the year and follow up to see how those goals are coming along. While every mom desires that her child takes first position in the class, expect your children to do their best. If you make that expectation clear, and provide a home environment that promotes learning, your children will have a greater chance of becoming the best they can be.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014

Stench from cells stings,repulsive The heat from cells is of such degree that those walking past at some distance feel it

Presumption of guilt, a powerful element

Conditionsinpolicestationsdehumanising

Procedure of interrogation torture is well-formulated and pain applied in graduated doses

Toilet is usually within, only shielded by a stretch of clothing

Investigation Accounts from police cells relate horrible tales of torture and inhumanity. However, it seems only a dream to think that suspected criminals could return from such custody without becoming hardened, writes ISIOMA MADIKE

Police Cell: Torture homes for suspects

he stench at Nigeria’s police station cells stings. Those, who have been through it, describe the condition as hell on earth. Its neighbourhood looks more like conquered colonies. Blood stains, spent tear-gas canisters, and skin ointments strewn all over. Suspects are often seen manning a gaping hole on the padlocked iron gates. Besides its peculiar nature, police cells are seen by many as a place of torment for suspects. Little wonder it attracts derision and revulsion as the most awful evidence of under-development in Nigeria’s penal questions. Most stations wear fading coasts of blue-yellow-green paint, a clear indication that little attention is given to maintenance of the facilities that were made available many years back. The compelling rituals new suspects are meant to go through in police cells are no better. Zombies, as they are called are required to pay “state taxes”. The tax is the money extorted from “new tenants” and it is ostensibly chanelled towards meeting the collective needs of the cell suspects, which in many cases, is appropriated by the cell leader for his use and that of his buddies. Although, such taxes are usually fixed sums of money in many a cell, in actual practice the suspects are habitually disposed of all the money they might have on them on coming into the cell. The cell leaders extract this money from suspects by threats of violence or actual infliction of violence. Those unable to pay are beaten mercilessly with slaps, blows and kicks and in many cases lashing all over with canes or other whips. The cruelty assumes an initiatory

ISIOMA MADIKE

Editor, InVESTIGATIONS isioma.madike@newtelegraphonline.com

Police Headquarters, Abuja. Inset: IGP, Suleiman Abba

aspect in many police cells, irrespective of a demand for payment of the “state taxes” having been made or of the ability or willingness of the new comer to pay it. It serves the purpose, in such cases, of intimidating and subjecting them to the authority of the cell leaders. The cell officer among the suspects has the sole responsibility of overseeing such extractive or initiatory brutality. They are usually designated OC Torture in mimicry of the practice among their police jailers. Indeed, in the belly of police cells, which invite negative perception, can best fit into Richard Nixon’s deepest valley allegory. The former United States of America President said when he was leaving office after the Watergate scandal: “Only in the deepest valley can you know how magnificent it is to be on the highest mountain.” The same way, it is only those, who have been locked-up in Nigeria’s police cells that would appreciate how splendid it is to be free after days of incarceration. Her name was something else, but

A man blindfolded during torture

she chose to adopt Ayo. She cut an innocent but pitiable sight on Tuesday, August 5, as she sat with a forlorn look in front of a dingy room at the Isokoko Police Station in Agege, Lagos. The

PHOTO:

stench from the Isokoko Police cell is indescribably repulsive even within 50 metres from the entrance. The heat from C ONTIN U E D ON PA G E 2 6

Investigation

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Stench from cells stings, repulsive

Another form of blindfold torture

A suspect being forcefully arrested

C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 5

the cell is of such degree that even those walking past the cell entrance at some distance feel it. That was her abode for four days as she was forced to live apart from the comfort of her home.

One of them demanded to sleep with me as a condition for my release, and when I refused, he became wild as he vowed to let me rot in the cell

Fresh suspects are beaten to herald their arrival in cells Ayo, in her early 30s, left her Ojodu-Berger neighbourhood about 2.30 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, for Abule-Egba where her aunt, Mama Bola resides. The trip, however, turned a misadventure that permanently altered the poor girls’ perception of the world. In tears, she narrated her experience: “I was picked up around Pen Cinema area by the Police. They were raiding an area they claimed to be notorious spot for those smoking hemp. I presented my identity card to them but that was not enough to prevent my arrest. I couldn’t reach my sister for two days because they were demanding money in spite of the fact that they had emptied the content of my bag much earlier during the arrest. One of them demanded to sleep with me as a condition for my release, and when I refused, he became wild as he vowed to let me rot in the cell. “I didn’t get to eat anything until I was able to make contact with my sister. When she got to the situation, the counter officer told her that I was caught smoking hemp. She eventually paid N3, 500 with the help of a lawyer, who signed my bail bond. Those bustards will never live to enjoy that money. “I was beaten by fellow suspects I met in the cell. They too made me to pay before I could stretch my body due to my swollen and painful neck. I had to pay N200, which was all I had left because I could not bear the ‘J5’ position punishment the cell leader gave me for 24 hours,” she said.

PHOTO: ALJAZEERA.COM

PHOTO: SAHARAREPORTERS.COM

Ayo said as a rule, fresh suspects are beaten to herald their arrival in cell. “As soon as I was pushed into the cell, all the detainees started shouting “alejo, alejo”, which means visitor in Yoruba language. As the beating became unbearable, I begged them for some mercy and I was asked to pay the sum of N4, 000. I received sever beating because I had no money left on me to pay,” Ayo further revealed. Although, an iron blind separates the female from the male cell, male detainees, according to Ayo, often assault female suspects by splashing urine on them through the blind. When she rejected a rotten sausage offered by the president of the male cell, the president, Ayo recalled, threatened to splash faeces on her from the toilet bucket. Considering this a worse prospect than eating the sausage, she accepted the sausage and gulped it down. She subsequently suffered stomach pains. Sadly, Ayo is not an isolated case. Though, others may not be as unfortunate like her, but they, nevertheless, undergo debasement and personal dehumanisation as victims of police mistreatment. Josiah sells electronics at the popular Oshodi market in Lagos. He claimed to have been illegally arrested by the police in 2007 while fixing a new plate number to his newly purchased car from Cotonou in Benin Republic. He was taken to Makinde Police Station in Mafoluku also in Oshodi where he was detained for five days. He described the cell condition as worse than lucifer’s hell and alleged that the detainees eat and sleep with their faeces wrapped and stocked in a corner of their screened-off area. He said the suspects sometimes decide to ease themselves in a nylon bag that they throw outside through a pinhole attached to their cells. The trader, who parted

Tortured suspect

PHOTO: 360nobs.com

A female suspect in pains

PHOTO: GLOBALVILLENEWS.com

Suspected human eaters stripped naked

with the sum of N15, 000 to regain his freedom after a haggle said the room was packed full with 35 other suspects before he was granted bail. According to him, “I was detained for three days without food except for the little they allowed from my relatives whom they collected N500 from. That was in the evening of the second day. There was nothing like toilet in the crowded cell. “We learnt the cell was meant for only nine suspects. We shit and ‘bail’ it with our bare hands. And we were made to pay what the station officer calls toll fee before anybody is allowed to see us. Mine was a horrible experience as I am yet to get through the shock. The place is not fit for even animals, not to talk of human beings,” Josiah recounted. Josiah, like Ayo, met with vio-

PHOTO: NAIRALAND.COM

lence at Makinde Police Station cell. On arrival in the cell, he said, “I was beaten mercilessly, not by the Police, but by the other suspects in the cell, who were angry that I brought no money for them.” Another suspect, a chartered accountant who, according to Josiah, was in police custody because of the theft of his company’s money by night burglars, was similarly beaten by his cell seniors when he was placed in a cell inhabited mainly by professional criminals. The seniors in that cell, continued Josiah, even chided the accountant for not facilitating the alleged burglary. Celestine’s case cuts a different veil. He was arrested on September 10, 2010 on allegations of making a phone call some few minutes beC O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 2 7

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

27 Investigation

Presumption of guilt, a powerful element

A journalist being dragged by a policeman

A mobile policeman tying a suspect hands during arrest C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 6

fore a raid by armed robbers. Celestine was stripped naked before being thrown into the cell at the Area B Apapa Police Command. He said that over 60 suspects were compressed within an enclosure of 12 by 18 feet dimension in the dirty cell. “I was asked to do ‘Toshiba’ immediately I was pushed in; that is, you use your shirt to fan another person, who is your senior. That is the tradition in that cell,” he recalled. Suspects go through pre-investigation violence before arrest The penalty for not fanning continuously or vigorously enough, he said, is ruthless beating from the beneficiary of the duty or his proxies. He alleges that he was refused bail even when investigation proved that he was innocent within two days of his arrest. He eventually paid N30, 000 before he could get his release. Although, he spent six extra days in detention while his relatives were looking for money for his release. A human rights organisation’s intervention on September 17 of that year was what saved Celestine from further decay in the cell. Earlier, Mabel, a 32-year-old, had a similar experience when she was arrested by the same Area B Apapa Police Command on allegation of receiving stolen money from a servant of a popular Lagos socialite. Mabel was tied hands and feet and straddled in between two metal poles. She was allegedly stripped naked during interrogation by male police officers and hung upside down from the ceiling of the torture room. Her torturers allegedly held her legs apart by tying each foot to a pole; the two poles being some distance apart from each other. The torture was said to have continued while the investigation officers beat repeatedly against her exposed private parts and legs with the

PHOTO: NIGERIAPOLICEWATCH.COM

PHOTO: NAIRALAND.COM

flat side of a machete. “I was also asked to do ‘ashasha’ by which I took a squatting position, bending my head downwards and putting a blindfold over my eyes with my shirt while I was beaten on my naked back with horsewhips. It was forbidden for me to attempt standing up in response to the koboko lashes. “I bled profusely from the injuries of the torture. Even at that I was denied bail, and the Police investigators declined me any medical assistance. I was left in that condition until intervention of human rights groups. And when I was released, I could neither walk nor stand,” Mabel said. “The Police is your friend,” that is the message on poster inscriptions displayed on the walls of many police stations. But, what follows, however, for many who go through a police interrogation procedure negates every promise of that inscription. There is a disturbing portrait of what many experience at Nigeria’s police stations, which they describe as inhuman. The mode of arrest with gratuitous aggression by the police has the effect of intimidating the suspect and weakening or, in some cases, even breaking whatever spirit the suspect has before the proper interrogation process. The purpose, according to police sources, is to cajole suspects to tailor their statements, recorded in “Form D19” of the Police witness statement sheet. It is also done to wheedle suspects to confess to the crime they are alleged to have committed or to incriminate other persons, who might, in fact, have no connection with the case. In many of such cases, the Investigating Police Officer (IPO) draws up the statement, often self-incriminating for the suspect, and only asks the nervy prey to sign it as his own statement. That was what happened in Uchenna’s case. His IPO wrote the statement and compelled him to sign it as his own.

Hands and legs of a suspect folded upwards and tied together

He was arrested on October 14, 2012 on allegation of Advanced Fee Fraud, popularly known as “419”. Led by a woman, the police went to his residence in Jabi, Abuja in the Federal Capital Territory to arrest him but did not meet him at home. They reportedly turned on his wife, beating and manhandling her to make reveal her husband’s whereabouts. Uchenna returned home at this point. The Police was said to have pounced on him and beat him up thoroughly, stripping him naked in the process. They bundled him into their vehicle in that state and took him to their station. He had to be hospitalised at a private clinic in Jabi. Tanko was also a victim of similar pre-investigation violence at the point of arrest. He said: “I was arrested by force early in the morning and taken to Garki Police Station about 7 a.m. They brought us out and started beating us. I was slapped so many times for about two hours before being formally arrested.”

The aim in the interrogation process is to secure a voluntary or, if necessary, forced admission of guilt from the suspect

PHOTO: INFORMATIONNG.COM

The case of Audu, arrested along with three others in connection with an armed robbery case, is another. Those that arrested Audu were said to have beaten him up at the scene of the arrest and at the Police station, even before they asked him any question. They reportedly kicked Audu with their boots, applied their batons to his ankles and knees, then asked him to confess that he and others killed one Sallah, and stole 48 cows, an allegation that he denied. Audu case occurred at the Maitama Police Station, Abuja as did that of Lawal. The Police took Lawal to court but he could not walk into the courtroom. He dragged himself in on his buttocks because the Police allegedly broke his two legs while beating him at the point of arrest in Kaduna on October 8, 2004. Just like Audu, the Police, it was claimed battered Lawal’s knees and ankles with their batons, rendering him unable to use them in the process. The attitudinal complex of police officers in the presumption of suspects’ guilt during arrest appears to them as powerful element. It provides one of the sources of the interrogation process. Since the Police presume the suspects guilty, the aim in the interrogation process is to secure a voluntary or, if necessary, forced admission of guilt from the suspect, as well as information concerning his accomplices, assistance and sponsors. The officer considers suspect uncooperative until he makes such an admission and provides such information. Imbued with the same attitude, the superior police officer in charge of inC O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 2 8

Investigation

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Conditions in police stations, dehumanising C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 7

vestigation similarly considers interrogation as slack ineffective as long as the suspect has not made a confessional statement or of statements affirming the Police officers’ pre-conceived notion of the truth of the case. They, therefore, insists on keeping suspects in police custody and use interrogative torture until he makes confession to the alleged crime, dies or rescued by his lawyers or relatives. Interrogation has become a process of forceful extraction of the desolate statement from suspects by deliberate application of excruciating force to suspects’ physical bodies. Interrogating officers insert unsterised needle into suspects' penis A Chief Superintendent of Police with the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Panti, Lagos once denied bail to Uwalaka, a 60-year-old suspect for fear that his superiors would consider his work shoddy if he released him before securing an incriminating confessional statement. Another high-ranking police officer, Assistant Commissioner (AC) was also said to have refused granting Salim bail because he was unwilling to confess to complicity in the automobile theft alleged against him. Uwalaka spent 33 days and Salim seven months in police custody without bail. Boso, another victim suffered beating in the hands of his interrogating officers at the state CID, Kaduna with a swollen face. He said the officers threatened him with more torture if he did not confess to the crime with which he was charged. Boso eventually fainted but was lucky to still be alive. The procedure of interrogation torture by the Police in Nigeria is a well-formulated set of tortuous practices whereby pain is applied to the accused person in graduated doses. The interrogating officer determines the intensity of the pain, its frequency and according to his calculation of what is necessary and adequate to break the suspect’s resistance. The application of pain to the body of the suspect is systematic and various methods have been developed or borrowed from other sources, each involving a peculiar positioning of the suspect, a sort of bodily restraint by an odd set of devices to inflict pain. Among the most notorious of these techniques are J5, freezeup, suicide, and third degree. When Tanko came under interrogation, the Police reportedly subjected him to torture by the third degree method. He was made to be face down. His legs folded upwards at the knees and tied together at the ankles, and his arms raised upwards and tied together at the wrist. A pipe said to have been attached at its end to a rope hanging from ceiling fan hook was allegedly passed between his legs and arms. That position generated ex-

Handcuffs

Form of torture

Suspect manning a gaping hole on padlocked iron gate

PHOTO: PREMIUMTIMESNG.COM

PHOTO: DAILYTIMES. COM.NG

Mobile policemen manhandling on a suspect during arrest

cruciating pain all over Tanko’s body, particularly in his shoulders, spine and waist. While he suffered this pain, the interrogating officers subjected him to beating with horsehide whips, batons and wire cables. Tanko recounted: “At Garki Police Station, I was raised up with a rod and asked to put my two hands behind my knees. A long rod was put between my legs and raised up like that; and I was beaten badly.” Ifezina suffered a similar fate in which his legs were tied to ceiling fan hook at the ankles, the head pointing earthward and pulled it at the loose end. He was said to have been stripped naked and later hung upside down. A lawyer from a rights group that followed the case confided in this reporter that the interrogating officers inserted and withdrew an unsterilised needle into and out of Ifezina’s penis while answering questions. According to the lawyer, who does not want his name in print, “blood gushed out of Ifezina’s genitals and spattered the floor and walls amid screams. The Police refused to treat him and could not grant him freedom to treat himself either. He remained in that state until the other suspect contributed money and bought him ampicillin to treat it. But, it was too late though, for Ifezina eventually died,” the lawyer said. Sabi also experienced aerial suspension in an upside down position during interrogation at the state CID Panti, Lagos. He had been arrested alongside

PHOTO: NAIRALAND.COM

Uwalaka on an allegation by their employer of colluding with some other persons to hijack and sell his truckload of iron rods. “After they made attempts at me to implicate my colleague, they then asked me to confess to the fact that I knew where Uwalaka kept the truckload of iron rods; and when I insisted I do not know, they took me to a small room, where they tied my legs, and lifted me up. “They tied my legs to something like a ceiling fan iron on the decking with my head pointing downwards. They started asking me questions. I cannot remember what I answered because I was bleeding from my nostrils. I was almost passing out when they brought me down. I could neither see anything nor stand on my feet,” he said.

His legs folded upwards at the knees and tied together at the ankles, and his arms raised upwards and tied together at the wrist

Cells are dark, poorly ventilated, and often overcrowded Sabi also talked about his experience among other suspects. “The cell compartment was terribly overcrowded with over a hundred suspects in a room that could barely take 45 to 50 persons. I was trapped in a fixed position from which I could neither adjust myself nor stretch a foot. We were all groaning under pain and anytime a suspect attempts to adjust himself, a fight resulted on account of the pain to which other suspects are put,” he recalled. The radiant heat from Panti cell is perceptible, quite a distance from the cell entrance. And the air-born smell pervades

the corridor of the first floor of the station building, occasioning much spitting and covering of noses by passers-through. Regina, a 23-year-old and Salome, 22, were both sales girls and were arrested by police from Adeniji Adele Police Station in Lagos on a charge of stealing their master’s property. The police officers allegedly stripped them naked and left them in that state for more than five hours, after which they purportedly infused gaseous substance into their privates. “As soon as I entered the Police station, one police man, who was passing-by saw us and asked if we (two of us) were for ‘washing face’, meaning interrogative torture. His colleagues said yes. He then asked me to pump my mouth (to fill my mouth with air until my cheeks bulged) and he gave me a dirty slap. “I thought I was going to be deaf. For many weeks, I felt the effect of that slap. I went to see a doctor after I was released, who diagnosed some serious damage to my dented cavity,” Salome said. Custodial conditions in police stations are, indeed, dehumanising. The cells are dark, poorly ventilated, and often overcrowded. Detained suspects live amid unbearable reek from bad breath, sour perspiration, toilet water and have little choice but walk barefooted. They also lie bare-bodied and sometimes on wet, slippery floors. Fed once a day or even less frequently in some stations, the detainees have to provide their own food; they have to eat with bare, contaminated fingers. There is no arrangement for baths, and many detainees go without washing themselves for days, and in some cases, weeks. The cell toilet is usually within, only shielded by a stretch of clothing, and a bucket beneath a hole over which the detainees squat to ease themselves. Flies from toilet and other insects naturally infect cells and the aromatic effusions from the toilet make the air unhealthy and unbreathable. They measure not more than the size of half of a room. The Police also created special cells within the normal cells known as “German” cell, with high rates of congestion. These cells are usually extremely narrow and have a ventilation hole that could only accommodate a bird no bigger than a pigeon and allows in a thin stream of light. They stuff the narrow enclosure with so many suspect that they only barely have enough room to stand. Faecal and urinary matters often litters the floor and smears the wall, making toileting quite disgusting but for those under irresistible bowel or bladder pressure. Maggots and cockroaches, which parade the cell rooms, also act as disease vectors.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014

Energy

Property

Aviation

November-loading: Nigeria records 40 unsold cargoes

Power: FG increases gas price by $2 in five years

FG earns N8.1bn, delivers 43,126 housing units in four years

Evaluating Nigeria’s airports privatisation policy

Business What's news

US lauds Nigeria for scaling aviation safety hurdles For scaling the Category One aviation status hurdles, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States has lauded the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for taking bold steps to retain the International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) Category 1 after a rigorous exercise.

Nigeria uses Android app, Facebook to tackle Ebola Mobile phones and an Android app with the use of Facebook were used by health workers to monitor suspected cases of Ebola outbreak in Nigeria.

p.30

The Business Desk Ayodele Aminu l Deputy Editor (Business)

Simeon Ogoegbulem l Dep. Business Editor

Bayo Akomolafe l Asst. Editor (Maritime)

Sunday Ojeme l Asst. Editor (Insurance)

Godson Ikoro l Asst. Editor (Money Market)

Dayo Ayeyemi l Property Editor

Adeola Yusuf l Energy Editor

Wole Shadare l Aviation Editor

BACK-UP The need for more non-oil collections emphasised Ayodele Aminu

Washington D.C.

p.30

Oil shocks: World Bank tells Nigeria to build up Excess Crude Account

Chris Ugwu l Capital Market Editor Abdulwahab Isa l Finance Editor Kunle Azeez l Senior Correspondent Chuks Onuanyin l Energy Nnamdi Amadi l Reporter Johnson Adebayo l Asst Production Editor

he World Bank has asked the Federal Government to increase its fiscal buffers (Excess Crude Account) to about $6.3 billion,up from the present level of $4.1 billion. This is to guard against shocks in the Nigerian economy due to the sudden drop in the price of crude oil in the international market which crashed to $88 per barrel last Friday, a price not seen since November 2010. There had been qualms that Nigeria’s 2014 budget could face challenges when crude, which is the cash cow of the country’s economy, crashed to $88 per barrel. Nigeria, Africa’s biggest crude exporter, which depends largely on proceeds from crude to service over 85 per cent of its budget, has a budget of N4.962 trillion for 2014, which it pegged on $77.5 per barrel. The naira that currently trades at N157 per dollar and which has been under pressure has lost about 1.5 per cent of its value this year. The external reserves, which the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) uses to defend the naira, have fallen to $39.4 billion. But the Finance Minister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, assured in Washington D.C. at a joint press conference to round off the World Bank/International Monetary Fund (IMF) meetings, that there

•We won’t borrow to augment shortfalls, says FG was no cause for alarm. She said that Nigeria would strengthen its fiscal buffer and that the country would not borrow to augment her shortfalls in revenue. “There is no cause for

alarm; we are on top of the game. We have to be realistic about our ability to spend,” she said. The minister said that the nation’s economic management team was working on

contingency plans, beginning with analysing various modules and scenarios in terms of oil price shocks. Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, who is CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

L-R: Media Consultant, Daikin Air-conditioning, Mr John Woma; Promoter, Panaserv Nigeria Limited, Mr Suraj Rupani; President, Daikin Middle East and Africa, Mr Fujioka Hiroshi and Head, Sales, Daikin Middle East and Africa, Mr Mohamed Miraj Mohamed Abbas, at the Daikin Air-conditioners launch in Lagos.

Aiteo Group acquires Shell’s $2.85bn OML 29, Nembe Creek pipeline Adeola Yusuf

ne of Africa’s leading conglomerates, Aiteo Group, leading a consortium of five other companies, has won the bid for the Royal Dutch Shell’s prolific Nigerian oil block, Oil Mining Lease (OML) 29 and an associated

pipeline with a bid of $2.85 billion. The acquisition of OML 29, as well as the Nembe Creek Trunk line, a 60-mile pipeline which has served as Nigeria’s major crude oil transportation channel, moving oil through the Niger Delta to the Atlantic coast, is a major boost for Nigerian

Local Content Development initiative. An official at the Communications Department of Aiteo Group, Mrs Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, who confirmed that the actual cost of the acquisition of the oil block and Nembe pipeline was $2.562 CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

Rates Dashboard INFLATION RATE August 2014............................8.5% July 2014.................................8.3% May 2014.................................8.2%

LENDING RATE InterBank Rate....................11.57% Prime Lending Rate...........16.93% Maximum Lending Rate...25.83%

EXCHANGE RATE

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N156.75 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N254.68 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N198.08

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N155.75 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N251.32 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N196.76

(Parellel As at Oct 2)

l Foreign Reserves – $39.47bn as at 2/10/2014

Source: CBN

(Official As at Oct 2)

Business | News

APPLAUSE

FG’s commitment and hard work commended

Wole Shadare

or scaling the Category One aviation status hurdles, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States has lauded the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for taking bold steps to retain the International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) Category 1 after a rigorous exercise. This was communicated in a letter to the Acting Director General of the Authority, Benedict Adeyileka, by the Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety, Federal Airport Administration, Margaret Gilligan. The American highest aviation regulatory body lauded the commitment and hard work exhibited by the Federal Government of Nigeria in its safety oversight system resulting in positive findings and subsequently closing the gap with corrective actions leading to the overall success of achieving this great feat. FAA expressed optimism that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) continues to meet the safety oversight requirements under the

US lauds Nigeria for scaling aviation safety hurdles international aviation standards of the Chicago Convention. While congratulating the Authority for the feat, FAA urged NCAA not to relent in its commitment to developing and maintaining effective safety oversight of Nigeria’s aviation industry as it looks forward to a continuing working relationship. Nigeria first attained the Category one status in 2010 and retained it after the last recertification exercise last month. The US aviation agency handed over the certificate to Minister of Aviation, Mr Osita Chidoka, at a ceremony in Washington penultimate week. Chidoka was issued the certificate that shows that Nigerian civil aviation meets global standards after the country closed all the open items noticed by the US FAA when its officials visited the country on March 31. Had Nigeria lost the Category One rating, the nation’s sole carrier to the US, Arik Air, would have been affected as it would have stopped operations to America and forced to lease airplanes from a Category One nation to fly directly to the US. FAA Category One retention elevates the

Aiteo Group acquires Shell’s $2.85bn OML 29, Nembe Creek pipeline CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

billion added that the balance was additional funds earmarked as working capital for their take-off. The SPDC had divested from OML 29 reputed to be endowed with oil reserves in excess of about 2.2 billion barrels of oil equivalent (BOE), with additional capacity from its hydrocarbon fields to deliver about 160,000 barrels of oil per day and 300 million standard cubic feet (MMSCF/D) of natural gas at peak production. Oluwatuyi also explained that though Taleveras was part of a consortium that brokered the deal, it was not the leader, contrary to media reports. She noted that Aiteo holds the controlling equity stake holding of 85 per cent shares in the consortium that also includes five other companies. Of about 2.7 billion

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

units of shares held by the consortium, Mrs Oluwatuyi disclosed that Aiteo Energy Resources Limited holds 2.294 billion shares; Tempo, which holds 10 per cent equity, controls about 270 million shares while Taleveras holds 135 million shares. The Nembe Creek Trunk line is one of Nigeria’s major crude oil transportation channel used to convey oil produced from the Niger Delta to the Atlantic coast for export. The trunk pipeline is also an invaluable asset to operators in the oil industry as it serves as vessel available for hire by other oil exploration and production companies in the country to convey their crude oil to the export terminal for onward transfer to the international markets “The acquisition of these assets has deepened Nigeria’s indigenous participation in oil and gas exploration,” she said.

image of Nigeria in the comity of nations and granted the country the reputation of a nation that is serious with air transport. Since the passing of ICAO audit and the rating of the country as Category One status nation, the number of foreign airlines flying into the country has doubled.

Besides, after so many years, American airlines have started operations into Nigeria, giving Nigerian travellers direct flight to destinations in the US. The audit of NCAA was predicated on eight critical elements which include primary aviation legislation, which is the Civil Aviation

Act; specific operating regulation; civil aviation system and setting oversight function, technical personnel function and training. Others were technical guidance material, tools and provision of sensitive critical information; licensing, certification, authorisation and approval obligation and surveillance.

L-R: Head, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Communications/CSR, Mrs Uchenna Mojekwu; Executive Director, FCMB Capital Markets Limited, Mr Tolu Osinibi; Group Head, Power, Energy and Media Sectors, First City Monument Bank, Mr Dele Faseemo and Co-Managing Director, Azura Power Holdings Limited, Mr Sundeep Bahanda, at the foundation laying of the Azura-Edo Power plant in Edo State.

Nigeria uses Android app, Facebook to tackle Ebola HI-TECH

Technology aids country’s fight against virus outbreak Kunle Azeez

obile phones and an Android app with the use of Facebook were used by

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30

also the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, noted that the World Bank Group deliberated extensively on the very uncertain mode of the global economy, which is expected to grow at just 3.8 per cent for 2015. The World Bank and IMF, at a meeting on Saturday, she continued, noted the need for countries in Nigeria’s category to prepare contingency plans, “should the slow growth (in the global economy) and oil prices continue to drop.” One way of doing this, the World Bank Group said, is for the Federal Government to build its fiscal buffers as back up

health workers to monitor suspected cases of Ebola outbreak in Nigeria. It was learnt that when Nigeria was hit by the first outbreak of the virus, the app and most of the phones were provided by eHealth & Information Systems Nigeria, a Santa Ana, California-based non- profit research company that operates in the northern city of Kano. A group of volunteers, Ebola Alert, used

Facebook and Twitter to educate Nigerians about the illness. Google’s Nigerian unit also organised training sessions for journalists on how to use Google Trends to identify top questions most people wanted answered about the disease. It was learnt that the phone app helped to reduce reporting times that would normally take 12 hours by half initially, then 75 per cent,

World Bank tells Nigeria to build up Excess Crude Account for the economy, in addition to the fact that “we need to continue our structure reforms just like in the Euro zone.” With oil prices dwindling, the minister also noted the need for more non-oil collections going forward, and that one way of doing that is blocking more loopholes in tax collections by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), which was given a target of $75 billion, out of which $44 billion had been collected as of July 2014, helped by external consulting firm, McEnzy. With these new reali-

ties, she said: “We need to go back and encourage them to do more. We have to carefully build up the excess crude account.” Speaking on the financial sector risk as noted by the World Bank and IMF as areas of concern, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, also assured that the apex bank would have to work towards ensuring that the nation’s financial system remains sustainable. One way of doing this, he said, is by strengthen regulation to put the identified risk factors under control.

before becoming almost real time, according to senior data manager at the Ebola Emergency Operation Centre in Lagos, Daniel Tom-Aba. Tom-Aba said that Information previously written on forms by hand before being sent to databases could be updated immediately. The Chief Executive Officer of eHealth & Information Systems, Adam Thompson, told Bloomberg by phone from Kano. “With Ebola, time is very important. If there’s a two or three-day lag in order to get a contact to the list, this could be a problem. The person could be in a different country by that point.” After a two-month campaign, during which over 800 people who came into contact with infected persons were placed under surveillance, Nigerian officials were confident that the outbreak had been contained. “The health ministry is not monitoring anyone at the moment and expects Nigeria to be declared Ebola-free by the World Health Organisation (WHO) about October 20,” spokesman, Daniel Nwomeh, said by phone.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014

Chevron mulls FID on 800MW Agura power plant p.33 BEARISH

Angolan cargoes sold faster than Nigeria’s Stories by Adeola Yusuf

large backlog of Nigeria’s Novemberloading cargoes has failed to find buyers, while market participants said that trade was the slowest they had ever seen due to ample supply and slack demand. Less than two weeks before Nigeria’s December export cargoes start coming to market, nearly 40 cargoes of the company’s November-loading cargoes were still available for purchase out of a total of 63 originally offered. “I think cargoes are starting to move later and later in the month. People are looking to see what’s happening with North Sea and Med programmes,” a trader told Reuters. Angolan cargoes have sold faster than Nigeria’s, with relatively robust demand from Asia for the distillate-rich crude. However, sales for these cargoes have slowed to a halt in recent days too. Nigeria’s Qua Iboe cargoes on offer for November was at around dated Brent plus $2, traders said. Traders said it was likely to trade closer to $1.50 above dated Brent, in line with indications on Monday. Vitol bought two cargoes of this grade, which it was expected to sell into Asian tenders. For Agbami and Akpo, Cargoes were sold out or almost sold out for November loading.

Energy

N2.7b oil exploration on hold as fighting escalates in Lake Chad p.34

November-loading: Nigeria records 40 unsold cargoes • Buyers shun country’s crude

The Angola’s Kissanje crude grades’ offered at dated Brent minus 50 cents, a trader said. The Girassol was offered at dated Brent minus 30 cents, having been offered at above dated Brent when the programme was released. Indian Oil Corporation is running a buying ten-

der this week and the result is expected on Thursday, a trader said. Meanwhile, The US Energy Information Administration trimmed its forecast of world oil demand growth next year and made even deeper cuts in its outlook for OPEC production, the latest signs of a shift toward surplus

supplies next year. The EIA cut its 2014 global demand forecast to 91.47 million barrels a day, compared with 91.55 million bpd expected last month, according to a monthly report from the agency on Tuesday. As a result, it now expects consumption to rise by 1.24 million bpd, down

Oil rig

RESERVES

The OML 113 has gross contingent resource of 167 million barrels oil equivalent (mmboe)

anoro Energy ASA, a London-based independent oil company, listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange, has advanced its planned sale of stakes in Aje field in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 113 in Nigeria. The OML 113 has Gross contingent resource of 167 million barrels oil equivalent (mmboe). The company has already given updates on this strategic Aje field sale process and the sale of Dussafu in Gabon, in which it plans to make $100 million.

Panoro Energy advances sale of $100m stakes in Aje, other oil field Panoro ASA has a 6.502 per cent interest in OML113 which is operated by Yinka Folawiyo Petroleum (YFP) and is located in the extreme western part of offshore Nigeria adjacent to the Benin border. Reuters reported on Wednesday that the company “expects net cash flow from Aje and Dussafu in excess of $100 million in 2016.” Panoro, the news agency said, has given updates on strategic sales process. It says since “contacting potential acquires received offers implying $60 million for Dussafu, Gabon and around $30 million for Aje, Nigeria.” The company further dis-

closed that “talks regarding potential asset and corporate transactions are still on-going. It concluded that these levels did not reflect fair values of assets,” adding that “it expects net cash flow from Aje and Dussafu in excess of $100 million in 2016.” Aje Field was discovered in 1997, in water depths ranging from 100-1500m. Unlike the majority of Nigerian Fields which are Tertiary sandstones, Aje has multiple oil, gas and gas condensate reservoirs in the Turonian, Cenomanian and Albian sandstones, and as such has more affinity with the recent Jubilee and Tweneboa discov-

eries offshore Ghana. According to Panoro’s website, four wells have been drilled to date on the Aje Field. Aje-1 and -2 tested oil and gas condensate at high rates. Aje4, drilled in early 2008, logged significant pay and confirmed the presence of four productive reservoirs and the field has full 3D seismic coverage. In March 2014, the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) approved of the Aje Field Development Plan (“FDP”) and since then work has progressed towards a Final Investment Decision (“FID”) on the project. “The FDP describes a development of the Aje Ceno-

100,000 bpd from the previous month’s report, but still higher than the 1 mln bpd increase estimated for 2014. On the backdrop of weakening demand, the agency curbed its forecasts for OPEC oil and other liquid fuels production to 35.51 million barrels a day in 2015, down 350,000 bpd from last month’s forecast. For crude oil output alone the EIA cut its forecast by 300,000 bpd to 29.24 million bpd. In September, OPEC pumped nearly 31 million bpd. The agency made little change in its outlook for U.S. crude oil production, which has consistently outstripped growth forecasts. The EIA expects US 2015 oil production of 9.50 million bpd compared with 9.53 million bpd a month earlier. The agency also cut its expectations for Brent prices to $101.67 a barrel in 2015, compared with $103 a barrel expected previously. “Weakening global demand helped North Sea Brent crude oil spot prices fall to an average of $97 per barrel in September, the first month Brent prices have averaged below $100/bbl in more than two years,” the EIA said in the report. The EIA projects that Brent crude oil prices will average $98 a barrel in the fourth-quarter of 2014. manian oil reservoir via two subsea wells and a leased FPSO. The FDP mid-case reserves are 32.4MMbbls 41° API oil with production starting by the end of 2015 at a plateau of 8,000 bbls/day. “Once production commences future phases of the project will likely involve additional Cenomanian oil wells targeting further Cenomanian contingent resources. “A later Turonian/Albian gas condensate project is currently considered as a separate development in the future. Activity has progressed rapidly during the quarter with establishment of the project team in Lagos, identification of a FPSO vessel, drilling rig, ordering of key long lead item equipment and tendering for installation services,” the company revealed.

Business | Energy

NO TARIFF HIKE

NERC has said that new gas price could not take immediate effect on electricity tariff Stories by Adeola Yusuf

omestic gas price in Nigeria has been increased five times between 2009 and 2014 by $2, checks by New Telegraph has revealed. Gas prices in Nigeria were hitherto below prices at the international market, a situation that has affected gas supply for domestic use. The incessant increase in the gas price is to encourage gas producers to increase in-country supply of commodity for the power and industrial growth. The price of gas-topower was earlier increased from $0.5 cents per million cubic feet (mcf) to $1 in 2010. This was further increased to $1.50 by 2011 and $2 by the end of 2013, and $2.5 in 2014. Meanwhile, the Federal Government has said that the recent increase in the price of domestic gas from $1.5 per thousand cubic feet (mcf) to $2.5 per mcf would not lead to immediate hike in electricity tariff. The government, through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory

Power: FG increases gas price by $2 in five years Commission (NERC) had approved a new gas-topower pricing benchmark of $2.50/mcf and $0.80/ mcf as transportation costs for new capacity. Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke, has said that the benchmark would equally increase with the United States annual inflation statistics. Following the announcement by government, concern was raised that electricity tariff would also increase by about 40 per cent as power producers are now paying higher price for gas used in electricity generation. Though the new pricing and other measures from which government expected to ramp up grid power generation by at least 5,000 megawatts (MW) within the next four months were expected to take off immediately, it was gathered that power producers are yet to pay the new price. Chairman of NERC, Dr. Sam Amadi, who confirmed the development declared that power generation firms have not started to pay the new price. Government, in a re-

Uganda to auction new oil blocks by December

ganda will auction new oil exploration acreage by December and compensate land owners at the site of a planned crude oil refinery, a government official has said. Investors interest in Uganda’s hydrocarbons potential has been growing since the east African country discovered commercial crude reserves in 2006, now estimated by government geologists at 6.5 billion barrels. Last month, the energy ministry issued a tender for a consultant to help prepare and package seismic and other data for the exploration fields that will be up for auction. “The consultant will also tell us how many blocks, which ones, what are their values,” said Ernest Rubondo, Commissioner for Petroleum Exploration and Production Department. Rubondo said the government had compensated about 70 of the landowners at a site in

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

western Uganda where the $2.5 billion refinery is planned to be developed. “By the end of this year the remaining should also be compensated.” Two consortia led by Russia’s RT-Global Resources and South Korea’s SK Group are competing as final bidders to develop the refinery project and officials have said a winner will be announced by the end of 2014, Rubondo said. London-listed Tullow Oil, French oil giant Total and China’s China National Offshore Oil Corporation are exploring for oil in Uganda. Tullow has estimated Uganda could earn up to $50 billion from its oil reserves. Uganda says only about 20 per cent of its Albertine graben --the oilrich basin straddling the border with Democratic Republic of Congo -- has been explored, recording a drilling success rate of more than 85 per cent.

cent inter-ministerial press briefing involving the ministries of petroleum resources, power, NERC, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), said that collective efforts were being made to find a lasting solution to

shortages in gas supply to power plants in the country. Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke, who led the briefing, stated that following the challenge of inadequate gas supply, successes had been recorded in sort-

ing out outstanding issues around current gas pricing regime as well as fast-tracking additional development of gas supply sources which will, in the short term, result to an addition of at least 370 million metric cubic feet per day (mmscf/d) of gas to the power plants.

Gas plant

CONFAB

The group has inaugurated the local organising committee (LOC) for its upcoming conference tagged Eko 2015

he Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) has said that it was worried that the extractive industry has not been able to attain its full potentials. The society, which said this in a statement, however, promised to boost the industry for an increased contribution to the growth of the national economy. “The apex body of geoscientists and mining engineers in the country is worried that the extractive industry has not been able to attain its full potentials especially as sectors like mining and steel development have not received considerable attention and witnessed commensurate growth

Extractive industry’s gridlock worries NMGS like the petroleum sector has done over the years,” the statement read. NMGS said this recently while unfolding plans for repositioning the society to effectively perform its leading role as the mouth piece of the geoscience industry in the country, the statement added. President of the society, Professor Clifford Teme (fnmgs), the statement continued, “said that the NMGS would do all in its capacity to push for an even distribution of growth among the segments of the extractive industry as it believed they are all potential goldmines. “He noted that all sister organisations including the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE),the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE),the Nigerian Association of Hydrogeologists (NAH),the Nigerian

Mettalurgical Society (NMS), the Nigerian Society of Mining Engineers (NSME) and the Nigerian Association of Engineering Geologists and Environment (NAEGE) are not left out as they have been co-opted in the collective effort to expand the frontiers of the extractive industry in the country. “In the same vein, the society has inaugurated the local organising committee (LOC) for its upcoming conference tagged Eko 2015. Members of the committee include Mr George Osahon, Director, Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Mrs Regina Obasa, Permanent Secretary, ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR), among others. At the inauguration, Prof Teme lauded the efforts of members most especially the pioneer members for their unal-

loyed support for him and the society in the past one year that he has been in the saddle. He expressed delight for the opportunity presented to him to serve the society having been active for many years in the executive committee. “I am happy to be the President of the greatest body of geoscientists, mining engineers and mettalurgists in the country. Before now, I have served in the exco for many years. As president now, I think I am delighted to put in my very best in doing what I do best, to serve the society where I belong and take it to greater heights. “And in doing this, we will put passion into it. Though my first year is gone, I think the achievement recorded during this period speaks volume. Last year, the conference held in Benin was adjudged the best in 50 years.

Business | Energy

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014

APPROVAL

Firm has secured FG’s approval for plant’s EIA Stories by Adeola Yusuf

hevron Nigeria Limited said at the weekend that it was very close to taking Final Investment Decision (FID) on its 800 Mega Watts (MW) Agura Independent Power Project. General Manager, Government, Policy and public affairs, Mr Deji Haastrup, disclosed this when members of the Chevronsponsored Advanced Writing and Reporting Skills (AWARES) class 14 of the School of Communication and Media (SMC), Pan Atlantic University, visited the company’s head office in Lagos. The construction of the project, which should have begun operation in 2011 has earlier been delayed but Haastrup disclosed that the company had just secured the government’s approval for

Chevron mulls FID on 800MW Agura power plant Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the project. “We have just received EIA approval on Agura power project and as soon as FID is taken we will invite you to come and celebrate with us,” he said. The plant was expected to have begun operation three years ago with initial 400MW to 500MW production in the first phase, with the balance delivered after its completion. The ground breaking ceremony of the project was performed by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and was expected to gulp over $700 million and programmed to boost the nation’s electricity capacity with another 800MW. Manager, Gas, Chevron Nigeria limited, Mr Debo Lukambi, corroborated Haastrup’s view when he added in a slide that the

company has grown its gas production for the use of power and other sectors with a cumulative production of between 400 to 500 million standard cubic feet (mmscuf) per day. “For instance, we have grown Escravos gas production from 50mmscf in 1999 to 550 mmscf today. “With this, our gas flaring has reduced by 60 per cent from 2008 to 79 per cent in 2013,” he said, identifying “contract sanctity, fiscal uncertainty, execution costs, infrastructure security and funding as challenges facing the company’s efforts on gas production.” Meanwhile, the Agura project had earlier been threatened by the noncompletion of key commercial agreements. This, the company said in 2012, was one of the major challenges to the completion of the

project. The key commercial agreements are divided into three; Power Purchase Agreement with the bulk electricity trader; Connection and Interface Agreements with the Transmission Company of Nigeria; and Gas Transportation Agreement with the Nigerian Gas Company Limited. On the current status of the project, Chevron said an email then: “NNPC/CNL JV continues to aggressively pursue the development of Agura IPP. The JV has made very good progress on the project both in the technical and commercial aspects. We purchased approximately 153 hectares of land near the existing Egbin power station for the purpose of developing the IPP. “On the commercial

Power plant

front, we recently published the Notice of Generation Licence Application and are pursing all the key commercial agreements. We have also made good progress in engineering the three key parts of the project namely; the power plant, gas supply pipeline and power transmission lines.” According to the firm, the NNPC/CNL JV will develop the IPP in three stages with the capacity reaching 720MW after the completion of the third stage. The first stage with capacity for 330MW is now being developed and is expected to be completed in 2016, Chevron said. “This date is contingent upon timely completion of key commercial agreements,” it stressed. “The major challenge being faced by the project is the completion of the following key commercial agreements: Power Purchase Agreement with the Bulk Electricity Trader; Connection and Interface Agreements with TCN; and Gas Transportation Agreement with NGC.” Chevron had in 2007 indicated interest in building the 800 Megawatt power plant, which would be located in Lagos. The Agura IPP is to be owned 60 per cent by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation and 40 per cent by Chevron. At the outset, the plant was scheduled for commissioning by the fourth quarter of 2010. It was supposed to be run on gas supply from the NNPC/ Chevron Joint Venture through the Nigerian Gas Company’s operated Escravos-Lagos pipeline system, or through the proposed NNPC/Chevron Escravos-Lagos offshore pipeline.

DPR promises to address BSW, crude metering anomaly WAY FORWARD

NAPE presents communiqué on imposition of disproportionate volume of lost crude to the minister

he Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) has promised that it would take measures to address the lingering issues of back allocation of Basic Sediments and Water (BSW) during

crude oil production reconciliation and the imposition of disproportionate volume of lost crude by some facility owners on indigenous operators. A statement by the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationits (NAPE) quoted the Director of DPR, Mr George Osahon, (fnape), to have made this pledge when he received a communiqué on behalf of the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke, on a workshop on “Fluid metering and accounting in the oil and gas industry” organised by the Nigerian Association

of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) in July this year. “You will recall that there have been a lot of issues regarding NEITI and metering and about what we need to do, some of these issues emanate from here and we are paying a lot of attention to them,” Osahon said, according to the statement. Osahon, the statement further said, adding that the document (communiqué) “will come back for us to study and advice again on what we should do, how we should do it, and when we should do it. We will turn that into a plan

of action of what we will do so that at least those companies that are suffering now especially those that are coutilizing facilities will have a new lease of life.’’ Also speaking at the occasion, NAPE president, Adedoja Ojelabi, stated, according to the statement, that the workshop on fluid accounting and metering was NAPE’s demonstration of its commitment to resolving issues that impact negatively on the oil and gas industry. She added that one of the ways NAPE does this is by providing platforms like the

special management workshop. “The production of the document has come out from a lot of work, meetings and the consensus reached by stakeholders. We hope that the document will be useful to the DPR, the government, the oil and gas industry and particularly Independents. “We also see that industry is likely to witness more and more of such issues but we hope we can nip them in the bud before they become major irritations in the industry,” she was quoted to have said.

Business | Energy

CASUALITY

Nigerian military fighter’s jets have killed dozens of militants in an attack on Boko Haram’s hideout in Lake Chad

Stories by Adeola Yusuf

he exploration for oil in the North has been put on hold as fighting in Lake Chad between military and insurgents escalated at the weekend. Dozens of militants were reportedly killed when Nigerian fighter jets, on Thursday afternoon, bombed a major Boko Haram base near Lake Chad. This on-going offensive has led to the temporary

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

N2.7b oil exploration on hold as fighting escalates in Lake Chad suspension of activities at the exploration site for the safety of engineers and other workers on the site. Further checks showed at the weekend that this has also put exploration activities at the Chad basin on snail speed. The Federal Government had, in 2012, estimated that expenditure on exploration at the Basin would hit N2.7 billion in 2013. “Air force fighter jets are currently hitting Wulgo village, which is on the banks of Lake Chad. The strategy is to flush them from the area,” the

Anadolu Agency (AA) reported, quoting an anonymous military officer privy to the operation. “The militants were found attacking nearby towns and settlements from Wulgo, where they have a fortress,” he said. The agency also quoted Saidu Batagarawa, a Fulani herdsman in the area, to have said that the military had warned local residents ahead of the aerial operation. “Boko Haram had long stationed themselves in Wulgo and other villages near Fotokol in neighboring Cameroon,” Batagarawa, who spoke in the

local Fulfude dialect, told AA by phone. “It appears to be their launch base, but the soldiers are now smoking them out,” he added. Batagarawa suggested that up to 45 insurgents had been killed in the bombardments. It would be recalled that investors who usually provide support services for exploration activities at the wake of the crises shun the region, while geologists in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) also evaded posting to the troubled Chad basin in Borno State for

fear of losing their lives. The Federal Government had, in a bid to douse the insurgency, deployed soldiers on the site while a state of emergency has since been declared in Borno State. But these measures were, according to some of the staff who crave anonymity, not enough to guarantee security of lives and property. “The Joint Task Force (JTF) is having a clamp down on the Boko Haram guys while those terrorists too have retreated to launch guerrilla warfare on the military. In all of these, do you think as a geologist one will be able to think straight? “Even those on site are not finding it funny. It is true that some of us do not want to be anywhere near that place. Do not forget that we lost three of our staff to the insurgency in 2012,” he recalled.

Perenco drills ‘encouraging’ well offshore Gabon

Lake Chad

STRATEGY

Tenoil is working on power generation, oil production and refining in Nigeria

xxonMobil and Tenoil Petroleum and Energy Services (Tenoil) have struck a deal for the drilling of an appraisal well on the Ata Field located in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 68. Tenoil, a subsidiary of Heirs Holdings, which announced this in a statement, maintained that it had already reached an agreement with Mobil Producing Nigeria Un-

OML68: ExxonMobil, Tenoil Petroleum commence Ata field drilling   limited (MPN), an ExxonMobil subsidiary on the project. Together with the development of OPL 281, which Tenoil operates on behalf of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (Transcorp), these field developments, the statement read, “are important steps in Heirs Holdings’ integrated energy strategy, encompassing power generation, oil production and refining, petrochemicals and fertilizer production.” Chairman of Tenoil, Tony O. Elumelu, commended MPN, saying

that “this is an exemplary demonstration of genuine commitment by an international oil company to the development of indigenous capacity in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.” MPN, according to him, is collaborating with Tenoil to provide technology expertise in the successful execution of this first drilling project. “Our announcement, following the recently concluded US-Africa Leaders’ Summit in Washington, DC, is a step forward in a relationship that serves as a

model for collaboration between African businesses and their U.S. counterparts,” Elumelu said. Chairman and Managing Director of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Mr Nolan O’Neal, noted: “The agreement demonstrates the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation/Mobil Producing Nigeria JV’s continuing commitment to working with Nigerian companies to develop the country’s oil and gas resources.” The Ata Field was discovered in 1964 by MPN,

the operator of its joint venture with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and is located in block, which borders Tenoil’s block OPL 2008. Both blocks are located in shallow water offshore of the Eastern Niger Delta, Nigeria. The drilling will help evaluate whether there is an opportunity to jointly develop the Ata field. The commencement of drilling at Ata Field represents a further milestone in Tenoil’s emergence as one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous field operators.

ullow Oil reported that the Sputnik-1 well, drilled offshore Gabon by its partner, Perenco, has produced an “encouraging result” despite failing to find commercial hydrocarbons. The well, which was targeting a pre-salt structure in Gabon’s offshore Arouwe block, encountered hydrocarbon pay in up to 985 feet of sandstone reservoir, but this pay was deemed non-commercial. However, Tullow Exploration Director, Angus McCoss, said in a company statement that “this is an encouraging result from the pre-salt play, offshore Gabon. Having found a petroleum system, we will now take the data from this well and integrate it with our seismic data to discuss with partners our next steps for the license.” Tullow has a 35 per cent interest in the Arouwe block, while partners Perenco and ExxonMobil hold 35 per cent and 30 per cent respectively. The Vantage Tungsten Explorer (DW drillship) was used to drill Sputnik-1 to a final depth of approximately 15,970 feet in water depths of 3,355 feet.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

Mortgage banks, developers partner to deliver Grand Lake project p.36

Property&Environment

FMBN braces for affordable homes delivery p.37

FG earns N8.1bn, delivers 43,126 housing units in four years

Units of housing in Sunnyvale Estate, Dakwo District, Abuja

FEAT Govt secures unencumbered land in 14 states for the take-off of 10,000 housing units in one year Dayo Ayeyemi

hings are looking up in the Federal Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development as its revenue profile and housing initiatives are rising by the day. From April 2010 when it was established as a free-standing ministry, its has raked in N8,110,389,817.79 as Internally Generate Revenue(IGR) in four years. This year alone, especially between January and August, a total of N1,888,588,629.64 was generated as revenue. Flaunting the achievements of the ministry in the last four years, Minister of Land, Housing and Urban Development, Mrs Akon Eyakenyi, said that N8.1 billion was realized from revenue source s, which encompassed tender fee, ground rent, premium on land, title registration fee, consent fee, Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) processing fee and survey fee. Addition to national housing stock Determined to continue playing a leading role in ensuring that Nigerians are adequately housed through the provision of policy direction, technical and administrative support for all stakeholders, the minister disclosed that the Federal Government, through

Jonathan

the ministry, has added a total of 43,126 housing units to the national stock between July 2010 and September 2014. This, she noted, was made possible through various interventions by the ministry and its two parastatals, namely: Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and Federal Housing Authority (FHA). The breakdown includes the 710 housing units under the Prototype Housing Scheme; 7,869 housing units under the PublicPrivate Partnership; 3,302 units through the Federal Housing Authority (FHA); 5,007 housing units through mortgages created by the FMBN; 17,240 units through Estate Development Loans; and 8,998 housing units through Contractor Finance Initiatives. New initiatives The minister said that presently, her ministry was collaborating with the Coordinating Minister for the Economy/Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, to support the effective take-off of the 10,000 mortgages launched by the Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) recently. She said: “While the Ministry of Finance through the NMRC is handling the demand side of the provision of 10,000 mortgages as a pilot scheme, the Federal Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development is facilitating action on the delivery of 10,000 housing

Eyakenyi

All selected developers and builders will be evaluated under a transparent and wellarticulated system of eligibility criteria in order to create a level playing field for all stakeholders

units that the mortgage facility of the NMRC will support.” She disclosed that a ministerial committee which she chaired was responsible for working out the modalities for the delivery of the housing units over the next few months. The minister boasted that the 10,000 housing units would be delivered during her tenure, explaining that an interim report detailing the priority actions for the realisation of the objective of the scheme has been prepared and adopted. Eyakenyi said: “We are encouraged by the large number of competent developers and builders that showed interest in participating in the process by responding to our advertisement for expression of interest which was published in the media. “All selected developers and builders will be evaluated under a transparent and well-articulated system of eligibility criteria in order to create a level playing field for all stakeholders.” She disclosed that the ministry has confirmed availability of unencumbered land in 14 states and Federal Capital Territory for takeoff of the project, adding that more lands would be secured in other states in the next few weeks. In order to further drive the development of the Federal Capital Territory, the minister disclosed that the Federal Capital Territory Administration has allocated parcels of land to FHA at Kuchiko,

Bwari and Kwali Area Councils for the provision of various housing units under the Abuja New Town Development scheme. She also told the audience that concession agreement for the reclamation and infrastructure development of 1,126 hectares of FESTAC Phase II was signed with Messrs New Festac Property Development Company Limited on September 8, 2014 in consonance with the approval of the Federal Executive Council. Social housing Under the social/affordable housing scheme, the minister pointed out that estate developers have been enjoined to embrace the concept of mixed development in housing delivery and ensure that 20 per cent of the total number of the units built in a project site are allocated to low-cost housing. The range of the units, she said must be between N1.5million for three bedroom and N500, 000 for one bedroom houses. New Federal Secretariat The minister stated further that the Federal Government through the ministry was undertaken the construction of six new secretariats at a total cost of N15.284 billion, adding that the rehabilitation and maintaining of existing 23 others were ongoing. The new secretariats are located in each geopolitical zone of the country. “Also, work on the mausoleum and library complex at Onitsha, in honour of late Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, is progressing satisfactorily. The project is being executed at a cost of N1.497 billion,” the minister said.

Business | Property & Environment

JOINT VENTURE Synergising to deliver 554 housing units for middleincome earners Moses Kadiri

n a move to tackle the huge housing deficit in the country, three mortgage banks have agreed with the developers of Grand Lake project to finance the development of a new residential community in Lekki-Ajah corridor of Lagos. While Imperial Homes Mortgage Bank is leading the syndicating banks to bankroll the project planned to cover 93 hectares of land, other financial institutions in the initiative are TrustBond Mortgage Bank Plc and Abbey Mortgage Bank. The trio are in partnership with Gran Imperio Group, the lead developer alongside with Ocean Springs Estates Limited, Vestril Limited and White Oak Real Estate Limited to salvage the ravaging challenge to providing decent, affordable and functional homes for middle -class group in Nigeria. The coming of this laudable project underscores the need for the newly established Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) to provide housing stock fast in order to meet up with the demand for quality, and affordable homes with cheap motgages. Grand Lake, at the take-off of the project, had taken signatures from four reputable developers, with a unique arrangement to make significant impact on the nation’s housing market. The middle-class echelon and prospective homeowners targeted by the project are expected to enjoy functional homes numbering 554 housing units under the first phase, which is expected to be ready between 18 and 24 months from now. Under the arrangement of the scheme, the financiers are opened to work with and finance other developers, who wish to come on board for various kinds of concepts and designs that fit into the entire Grand Lake ideal. Developers that have capacity

Mortgage banks, developers partner to deliver Grand Lake project to cope with minimum of 10,000 square metres (sqm) and 20,000 sqm would be brought in as the scheme progresses. Grand Lake comprises one, two, three and four bedroom exquisitely finished terraced bungalows as well as other housing types that suit the overall design of the emerging city in the Lekki corridor. It would be delivered in phases with air conditioning, PABX system, CCTV, Stone coated roof tiles, swimming pool, bar and lounge, astroturf football pitch, gym, good quality finishes, fully fitted kitchen and recreational facilities. The scheme will also feature site and serviced plots for residential and commercial developments offering three different plot sizes to suit subscribers’ requirement. Prices and payment options are flexible, as the project financiers have between 5 to 20 years payment plan for the subscribers. While one-off payment attracts 3% percent discount. While one bedroom bungalow is

selling for N7,950,000, two-bedroom cost N10,950,000, 3-bedroom is up for grab at N13,950,000, and the 4 bedroom bungalow is for a token of N17,950,000. Under the serviced plots, a plot of 600 sqm cost between N18,000,000 and N30,000 per sqm, while plots in the commercial zone are pegged at N45,000.00. The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Gran Imperio Group, Mr. Adeyeye Ogunwusi, described the initiative as unique, adding that the provision of housing for Nigerians in the country is inevitable. He revealed that Lekki Peninsula region in the state is one of the fastest growing regions all over the world, hence the need to play active role. He gave kudos to the Mortgage Bankers Association of Nigerian (MBAN) for supporting the initiative and the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) for creating the window to have in place longer mortgages. He noted that real estate development has not actively contributed to the nation’s Gross

Domestic Product (GDP). He said:“In Nigeria, the GDP is between the range of 33 to 5 percent contributions compared to other countries which is in the range of about 30 to 60 percent contributions to the GDP. That is a wide gap. “We realised that we cannot do it alone, we need to bring others onboard to partner in the project; the demand is so huge that a single developer cannot do it alone.” Managing Director, Imperial Homes Mortgage Bank, Mr. Ben Akaneme, said that there was need for more operatives and developers to seek internal solution to the nation’s internal problem of housing demand, He added that his bank and other partners were adequately ready to ensure the success of the project. Managing Director, TrustBond Mortgage Bank, Mr. Adeniyi Akinluyi, said that the financiers and the developers were synergizing to make affordable housing for the middle income earners in Nigeria a reality. He assured that there was plan to take the initiative

to other parts of the country. Mr. Kehinde Asumah, who represented, the Managing Director, Vestril Limited, Mr. Moruf Olabisi, said that his firm saw the opportunity to collaborate with three other developers towards making significant reduction of the nation’s housing deficit, reassuring that the project would be delivered as planned. “Though since it is a massive development, more developers would still be expected to join them,” he said. Chief Executive Officer and Executive Secretary, Mortgage Bank Association of Nigeria (MBAN), Mr. Kayode Omotosho, said that the initiative and the concept were steps in the right direction. Omotosho, who noted that it was a common phenomenon in some years to find commercial banks syndicate to bankroll quite number of the high-rise building on the Island, said MBAN with this kind of scheme would in the next five years surprise Nigerians.

Model of housing units in Grand Lake Estates

‘50% real estate investments in Ghana controlled by Nigerians’ igerian investors are the prime movers of premium real estate in Ghana as they account for over 50 per cent of transactions in the country, October report of the Financial Derivative Company has revealed. Confirming this, Marketing Manager of Movenpick Ambassador Hotels, Robert Davis, whose firm is developing Ambassador Heights Luxury Apartments, said that Nigerians were the prime movers of premium real estate transactions in Acca, the capital of Ghana Davis, according to the report from Lamudi Nigeria, a real estate news online had hinted that

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

demand for the 18-unit Ambassador Heights has been quite encouraging with Nigerians securing 50 percent of buyerinterest in the modern development located in Ghana’s most coveted location, placing them ahead of local investors who share the remaining 50 per cent with foreign clients. He said that with the encouraging demand from Nigeria, the country was their next destination, affirming that Nigeria property market has great growth potential and huge opportunities for investment. Though, Nigerians are more visible in the residential segment of the market, they

are at the same time no pushovers in the commercial segment where the development and ownership of some quality high-rise office buildings in the heart of Accra are linked to Nigerian business moguls. The developer noted that the Ghanaian real estate sector has attracted Foreign Direct Investment(FDI) not only because of the quick value appreciation and high rental yield of assets estimated at 10 per cent yearly, but also because of the security, socioeconomic and political stability in the country. He pointed out that the challenges experienced by the country’s currency were gradually easing off. Davis noted that the Ambassador Heights could deliver world class design, adding that with its modern glass facade, manicured private gardens, and beautiful interiors complete with luxury finishing, fittings,

and appliances, it could complement an unrivalled ownership experience. Davis described Ambassador Heights by virtue of its location as a 5-Star mixed use development in which the hotel and the commercial space have been fully completed. He assured that buying into this development even as an investment makes much economic sense. “Accra is the nerve centre of ‘New Ghana’ and all it stands for where the middle class income earners are witnessing a renaissance in attitude. There is also an awakening spirit of entrepreneurship and consciousness towards art and luxury, where comfort is a major factor in every lifestyle,’ he said. According to him, there is no better statement than living in this Accra’s premier downtown address, explaining that it is one steeped in history with a clear view to the future and a distinct feel of a refined luxury lifestyle.

Business | Property & Environment

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

FMBN braces for affordable homes delivery HOUSING DEFICIT Aggressive injection of funds by the Federal Government required Dayo Ayeyemi

ith a housing deficit of 17 million units, it was not a surprise that the Federal Government, through its various agencies, has embarked on programmes geared towards providing one million houses annually. An indication that the resolve by Federal Government could not be considered a leap service also emerged at a forum tagged: Presidential Stakeholders Retreat on Housing and Urban Development,” where it pledged to revolutionalise the sector by translating the National Housing Policy and National Urban Development Policy into a roadmap for housing development. To achieve this, Nigerians enthusiastically looked up to the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN). With a mandate, which includes: Encouraging the emergence and promoting the growth of viable primary mortgage institutions to service the need of housing delivery; mobilising both domestic and offshore funds into the housing sector; linking the capital market with the housing industry; establishing and operating a viable secondary mortgage market to support the primary mortgage market and collecting and administering the National Housing Fund in accordance with the provisions of the NHF Act, the FMBN has no other option than to remain a key player in the transformation agenda. To surmount the various challenges in the sector particularly the housing deficit, the FMBN, it was gathered, has initiated projects like the delivery of about 53,000 houses through

the National Housing Fund (NHF), launching of housing scheme for the informal sector, Estate Development Guarantee (EDG) scheme among others. Investigations showed that these measures are yielding results, despite some constraints towards achieving them. Particularly, the launching of a housing scheme for the informal sector and delivery of about 53,000 houses and the resolve to recapitalise as part of efforts to boost operations in the nation’s secondary mortgage market, have received applause across the country. Managing Director of FMBN, Mr Gimba Ya’u Kumo, said that the Informal Sector Cooperative Society Loan Scheme product would enable operators in the informal sector like farmers, traders, artisans to benefit from the national housing scheme like those in the formal sector. He said: “The mortgage industry in Nigeria is just starting. If you look at the size of our contribution to the GDP, it is less than one per cent, but my target before I leave here is that

we should be able to contribute at least 15 per cent. “That is why we are putting a lot of issues on ground to be able to drive this process. And how do you do that? If you look at NHF we are managing, out of the 170 million population, less than one per cent is contributing. We said this is not good.” Commenting on FMBN programmes, Managing Partner of Havillah Shelter, Isaiah Dualong, said that if the policies initiated in this dispensation are executed overwhelmingly, the mortgage challenge would be surmounted to a large extent. He said: “It is quite promising that we have seen programmes, which if fully implemented, would provide answers to the various housing questions in Nigeria. I am not in doubt that they are not on the right path. All we demand for is for the federal government to keep faith in FMBN.” He cautioned that policy somersaults would not be in the interest of the good policies that have been put in place in the sector.

A UK home

‘Low-carbon system could supply world’s electricity needs by 2050’

Freedom Park Estate, Agbara, Ogun State.

UK: Excessive lending standards hurting new home sales ight mortgage lending standards has continued to affect sales for single-family builders across the United Kingdom, a survey released by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), has said. According to the report by

He stated further that he was aware that the FMBN has been working on mass housing schemes with a Rent-to-Own option for workers to reduce the housing deficit in the country. “If that is done, there will be mass housing scheme. It will also increase the number of completed mortgages from the current 20,000 housing units to more than 200,000 units in three years. You can see that there are prospects in all these,’’ he said. Managing Director, Chiekwana Homes, Chief Chike Chiekwena, observed that there was a new direction for the bank and the nation’s mortgage sector, adding that there was need for a comprehensive database for generating statistics.

World Property Journal, well over half of the single-family builders surveyed indicated that lending standards were “tight” or “very tight,” while only 11 per cent indicated that standards were “somewhat easy” and no builders described them as “very easy.”

“While housing has seen some positive growth throughout the year, there is no denying that tight credit conditions are hindering a full, healthy housing recovery,” said NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe. “These persistently tight mortgage credit standards continue to limit the number of creditworthy borrowers, particularly younger families and first-time home buyers, from entering the housing market.” The survey also asked builders if they had lost any sales over the last six months due to buyers not qualifying for a mortgage. Eighty-three percent answered “yes,” and of these, the average share of sales lost was 9.7 percent. NAHB estimates that this 9.7 percent translates to 18,700 new-home sales lost because buyers were unable to qualify for mortgages.

“NAHB advocates for prudent lending standards, but we’ve seen banks and regulators swing the pendulum too far and create an environment where lending standards are too restrictive,” said Kevin Kelly, NAHB chairman and a home builder and developer from Wilmington, Del. “We want a return to reasonable lending standards where qualified borrowers are able to obtain a mortgage and create the American dream for themselves.” NAHB has supported many housing finance reform policies that would help reverse tight lending conditions, including improved credit scoring models, a reduction of guarantee fees - known as g-fees, passage of the Housing Finance Reform and Taxpayer Protection Act of 2014 (Johnson-Crapo).

global low-carbon energy economy is not only feasible, it could double electricity supply by 2050 while actually reducing air and water pollution, according to a new research. These positive findings, according to Climate News Network, were published in the proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences by Edgar Hertwich and Thomas Gibon, of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology Department of Energy and Process Engineering. They and international research colleagues reported that they have made – as far as they know – the first global life-cycle assessment of the economic and environmental costs of renewable and other clean sources of energy in a world that responds to the threat of climate change. Other studies have looked at the costs in terms of health, pollutant emissions, land use change or the consumption of metals. The Norwegian team set out to consider the lot. There were some things they had to leave out: for instance, bioenergy, the conversion of corn, sugar cane or other crops to ethanol for fuel, because that would also require a comprehensive assessment of the food system; and nuclear energy, because they could not reconcile what they called “conflicting results of competing assessment approaches”. But they tried to consider the whole-life costs of solar power, wind power, hydropower and gas and coal generators that used carbon capture and storage to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They took into account the demand for aluminium, copper, nickel and steel, metallurgical grade silicon, flat glass, zinc and clinker. They thought about the comparative costs of “clean” and “dirty” power generation.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

38 Americans want flights from Ebola countries banned –Survey p.39 Interest in airport privatisation is increasing, especially as the Federal Government looks for ways to make them as efficient, competitive, and financially viable as possible writes Aviation Editor, WOLE SHADARE

Aviation

‘MH370 may not be in Indian Ocean’ p.40

Evaluating Nigeria’s airports privatisation policy

lans by the Federal Government to private all airports in Nigeria came to many as a big surprise. It came as a surprise considering the enormous funds expended on their refurbishment recently. Although, some of the aerodromes were poorly and badly done, save for may be two. Actually, nobody knows how much was sunk into them. No accountability. Some of the materials used are falling off, further confirming the shambolic repairs of the facilities. The cladding of the remodelled Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport and that of the international and domestic wings of the Lagos airport terminals are good examples of how not to remodel or refurbish airport terminals. The African airport sector has its own share of management, financing, safety, and security issues. There is a clear need for upgrading installations in order to meet international standards, modify regulatory framework and to incorporate new requirements in terms of security (airport certification). Policy somersault However, the disclosure last week by the Director-General, Bureau of Public Enterprise, Mr. Benjamin Dikki, that the privatisation of federal airports would commence soon, could be likened to policy somersault in the sense that it was the plan of a former Minister of Aviation, Mr Babatunde Omotoba, before the idea was scuttled by the present government. But that government is towing the earlier plan has now led to divergent views. While many welcome the idea, others are cynical, noting that the airports could be sold the same way Nigeria Airways was liquidated with assets of the carrier sold to cronies of government under the guise of liquidation. All over the world, governments and city airport authorities are becoming more reluctant to support airport projects since they have major budgetary constraints. For that reason, airport assets and property have always been publicly managed and commercial activities have occasionally been contracted or outsourced to private companies. Within such a framework, economic regulation was seen as superfluous. The traditional airport management model becomes vis-

Abuja International Airport

ibly unsustainable when most governments begin to be concerned about the burden of airport financing and its lack of efficiency. Unviavle airports Most of the country’s airports, aside the Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port-Harcourt airports, are unviable and they generate little or nothing to the coffers of government. These four airports’ revenues are used to service 18 other aerodromes that are not helped by the construction of new ones by state governments. Those termed semi-active include those in Benin, Calabar, Enugu, Jos, Owerri, Ilorin, Asaba, Maiduguri and Osubi, while the dormant airports include those in Minna, Makurdi, Akure, Ibadan, Bauchi, Sokoto, Katsina, Kaduna and Yola. In fact, it is no longer news that some of these airports are just not viable as little or no flight is connected to them. To many, their privatisation would make sense as investors would commit resources into them and develop them to attract traffic. The four aerodromes in Lagos, Abuja, Port-Harcourt and Kano generate over 70 per cent of domestic and international traffic. These airports are currently handling more passenger traffic than they were originally designed for. Analysts are of the opinion that nothing can be done by government to improve the lot of airports except to leave them in the hands of private operators.

All over the world, governments and city airport authorities are becoming more reluctant to support airport projects since they have major budgetary constraints

A former Assistant Secretary General of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Mohammed Tukur, listed three main potential economic gains obtainable from privatisation to include improvement in operating efficiency, introduction of new management styles and marketing skills aimed at serving users with a more consumer-oriented approach, and better investment decisions. However, in many cases, these investment decisions might also imply under-investment or capacity reduction, which mandates the presence of a regulatory environment. Privatisation process worldwide Since 1987 when the United Kingdom privatised the British Airports Authority (BAA), the interest for privatisation has been on the increase worldwide. In fact, over 20 countries have completed the sale or lease of airport facilities so far. Some of them are Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Bolivia, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa and Switzerland. In the United States, commercial airports have traditionally been independent of the national control, operated locally by local or regional authorities and highly influenced by private interests, specifically the airlines (with enough power to decide major facets of airport management and devel-

opment). While the degree of participation of private interests in airports differs broadly among states and cities, major US commercial airports are operated through partnerships between government, local interests and private firms. The preferred model of privatisation of airports in Europe has been the sale of equity. This was pioneered by the United Kingdom with its initial public offering of 100 per cent shares of the former BAA in 1986. After being privatised, BAA Plc has become one of the biggest international participants in the airport industry. In the Asian countries, many major airports are expected to be privatised in the near future. Among them are those in Tokyo, Hong Kong, and several airports in India. Currently, the airport landscape in China can be defined by a group of prospering big airports (especially those in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen). The on-going structural reform in the airport sector has provided an opportunity for these airports to seek funding from capital markets as well as strategic investors. Although the Middle East has not been a region particularly active in airport privatisation, some projects are in place to either upgrade or develop new facilities while in Latin America, the most common way of privatising airports has been through concession contracts.

Business | Aviation

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

CAUTION Ebola outbreak, the largest in history, has sickened 8,033 people and killed 3,879

ajority of Americans are in support of banning flights to the United States from countries experiencing Ebola outbreak, an exclusive NBC News online survey reveals. The survey, which was conducted by SurveyMonkey and then weighted for age, race, sex, education and region to match US Census data, found that 58 per cent of Americans want a ban on incoming flights from West African countries hardest hit by the virus, such as Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone. 20 per cent of respondents opposed a travel ban, and the rest said they didn’t know. The survey was conducted a day before the first person diagnosed with Ebola in US died on Wednesday last week. The Federal Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Customs and Border Protection, on Wednesday, announced new screening procedures at five American airports that see most travellers from Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone: New York’s JFK International Airport, Washington-Dulles, Newark, Chicago-O’Hare and Atlanta. Staff will question and take

Americans want flights from Ebola countries banned –Survey the temperature of everyone coming from those countries and screen for signs of the illness. Approximately 150 passengers come to the US from those countries each day, officials said. The survey found that 51 per cent of respondents said that they were worried there would be an Ebola outbreak in the United States, and 30 per cent worried that they or someone in their family would be exposed to the virus. By an almost 2-1 margin, those surveyed disapproved of sending US troops overseas to help contain the outbreak. Most Americans surveyed said they did have an accurate understanding of how the deadly disease is spread, with 72 per cent correctly answering that it is communicated through bodily fluids. “People actually have to have a decent understanding in how you contract Ebola. Only 10 per cent said through the air, and 15 per cent said through the skin,” said John Lapinksi, an associate professor of political science at the University of Pennsylvania, who is also director of elections at NBC News and was part of a team of academics who weighted the survey results. “The knowledge (result)

is not trivial.” Ebola outbreak, the largest in history, has sickened 8,033 people and killed 3,879 as at last week - and the World Health Organisation said those numbers are almost certainly an underestimate. Also in the US, NBC News freelance camera operator Ashoka Mukpo is being treated for the disease at the Nebraska Medical Centre and an unnamed American doctor is being treated at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta. The survey found that people trust the CDC more than their local health departments to prevent an outbreak of Ebola in the US. The Dallas hospital where the Ebola patient who died, Thomas Eric Duncan, 42, was treated, has come under fire after it initially sent Duncan home after the Liberian national complained of symptoms that turned out to be the deadly disease, creating a delay in treatment. Seventy-six per cent of those surveyed said they trusted the CDC to prevent an Ebola outbreak in the US. That compared to 62 per cent who said they trusted their state health department to take the proper steps to prevent an outbreak. The survey was conducted

A health official screening a passenger at the JFK Airport, New York

Air France inks code share deal with Kulula.com

ir France has signed a codeshare partnership with South African low cost carrier, kulula.com. Under this partnership, Air France will add its code to kulula. com’s domestic route network, allowing customers to seamlessly connect in South Africa to and from Cape Town, Durban, George and East London. In addition to the above benefits, in the future, premium Air France customers will have access to the award winning SLOW lounges conveniently situated in the domestic terminals at or Tambo

International (Johannesburg), Cape Town International and Durban International airports. Air France and kulula. com further confirmed that discussions were underway to include the Flying Blue Frequent Flyer Programme, which would allow members of the programme to accrue and redeem miles on the code share flights. Erik Venter, Comair’s Chief Executive Officer says: “We are delighted to be adding Air France as a key airline partner and will continue to work with them to explore opportunities

to expand on our partnership. We look forward to welcoming their customers on board our flights”. “We are confident that our customers will benefit from the partnership, providing them with more convenient booking and travel options within South Africa. We are excited to be working with kulula.com and look forward to further expanding our relationship,” said Frank Legre, Senior Vice President Africa at Air France-KLM. l Culled from Top on Travel

on October 7, and has a margin of error of 4.6 per cent. The company conducted the survey by sending e-mails to 2,517 people; of those, 1,045 started the survey and 1,010 completed it.

Those e-mailed were chosen from those who completed other surveys on the SurveyMonkey platform, in age in sex proportions that attempted to mirror US Census numbers. All were over the age of 18.

BA’s B747-400 aircraft being towed to safety

British Airways put Kuala Lumpur back on route map ritish Airways has an- this new route of British AirB nounced the resumption ways will bring about positive of direct daily flights from impact of great proportions to Kuala Lumpur to London from May 27, 2015. The British carrier will be the only airline to offer premium economy seating between London and Kuala Lumpur. The daily service, according to a statement from the airline, will be operated by a four-cabin Boeing 777-200ER, featuring 12 seats in First, 48 in Club World business class, 32 in World Traveller Plus premium economy class and a further 127 in World Traveller economy class. The flight’s early morning arrival in London the carrier said would allow passengers a full day in the city or plenty of time to catch easy and convenient connecting flights to other destinations in the UK and Europe. British Airways’ Area General Manager for the Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, Jamie Cassidy, said: “It’s wonderful to be back in Malaysia. We are starting the new flights in response to strong customer demand for direct flights to Kuala Lumpur. “As Malaysia’s economy grows, it is becoming an even more important trading partner with the UK and Britain has long been a favourite destination for Malaysians to study, shop and experience its rich heritage.” Managing Director of Malaysia Airports, Datuk Badlisham Ghazali, said: “I greatly welcome the return of British Airways to Malaysia. This announcement underlines the strength and vibrancy of the air travel market between the United Kingdom and Malaysia and I believe that

both countries from the economic, political, social and cultural standpoints. “To British Airways, I wish them best in their preparations to reconnect the two great cities of London and Kuala Lumpur and am confident that KLIA will add value and enhance British Airways huge global network.” British Airways, then operating as Imperial Airways, first began flying to Malaysia on December 9, 1933, using an Armstrong Whitworth Atlanta. The flight left London Croydon Airport and made 22 stops before eventually reaching Alor Star (now Alor Setar) nine days later, compared with 12 hours and 45 minutes for the new flight. Another British Airways predecessor, BOAC, first started flying to Kuala Lumpur itself on August 1, 1956, using the Canadair Argonaut ‘Coronet’ service on the outbound route and the Lockheed Constellation ‘Majestic’ service on the return. The airline suspended services to Kuala Lumpur in 2001 as global travel slowed after the 9/11 incident. The flights will arrive at and depart from London’s Heathrow Terminal 5, named the world’s best airport terminal for three years running by travellers polled by Skytrax. T5 is known for its efficiency, convenience and world-class shopping and luxurious lounges, as well as easy connections to other places in Europe, the UK, Africa and the Americas. T5 is used exclusively by British Airways and its sister airline Iberia.

Business | Aviation

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

‘MH370 may not be in Indian Ocean’ CONFUSION An interim report pointed investigators towards the southern section the current search zone

here have been many conspiracy theories about what happened to missing jet MH370, but now the respected head of one of the world’s leading airlines says he believes the plane was not on autopilot at the end and may not even be in the Indian Ocean. Emirates Airlines boss, Sir Tim Clark, said this in an interview with German magazine, Der Spiegel. “MH370 was, in my opinion, under control, probably until the very end,” he said. His theory goes against current thinking that the aircraft was on autopilot until it ran out of fuel and crashed into the southern Indian Ocean. He added: “Our experience tells us that in water incidents, where the aircraft has gone down, there is always something. “We have not seen a single thing that suggests categorically that this aircraft is where they say it is, apart from this so-called electronic satellite ‘handshake,’ which I question as well.”

The plane that disappeared was a Boeing 777 and Emirates operates 127 such aircraft, more than any other airline. Sir Tim said he was suspicious of the fact that no-one seems to know where the plane ended up. “There hasn’t been one overwater incident in the history of civil aviation - apart from Amelia Earhart in 1939 - that has not been at least 5 or 10 per cent trackable. “But MH370 has simply disappeared. For me, that raises a degree of suspicion. I’m totally dissatisfied with what has been coming out of all of this,” he told the magazine. Sir Tim called for more transparency in the investigation. He said: “There is plenty of information out there which we need to be far more forthright, transparent and candid about. “Every single second of that flight needs to be examined up until it, theoretically, ended up in the Indian Ocean - for which they still haven’t found a trace, not even a seat cushion.” Australian Danica Weeks lost her husband Paul on the flight. In response to the comments from the respected airline chief, she told Channel 9 news: “He’s the man in the know, so why aren’t they talking to us? And what is all the silence about?”

Earlier this week, the Australian Transportation Safety Bureau (ATSB) said that latest analysis suggested the Malaysia Airlines flight went into a slow left turn and spiralled into the Indian Ocean when its fuel ran out. An interim report pointed investigators towards the southern section the current search zone. “MH370 remains one of the great aviation mysteries. Personally, I have the concern that we will treat it as such and move on,” the airline chief told

Der Spiegel. “At the most, it might then make an appearance on National Geographic as one of aviation’s great mysteries,” he said. “We mustn’t allow this to happen. We must know what caused that airplane to disappear.” The next phase of the operation to locate the plane has now begun following an extensive mapping process of the ocean floor. It is seven months since the aircraft went missing with 239 people on board.

Malaysia’s B747-400 flight

Ten years after: Eulogy for ‘Mr Safety’, Captain Jerry Agbeyegbe Wole Shadare

decade after he was felled by bullets from yet-to-be-ascertained assassins, family members, aviation stakeholders and associates will today hold a remembrance anniversary for the slain aviation martyr, Captain Jerry Agbeyegbe. Agbeyegbe was the general secretary of Nigerian Aviation Safety Initiative (NASI), the aviation safety watchdog group. He was felled by assassins’ bullet on Tuesday October 12, 2004, along the Oworoshoki axis of the Lagos/Ibadan Expressway. Agbeyegbe was critical about sore points affecting safety in the industry. A former president of National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), said Agbeyegbe led a safety campaign in the industry in the late 1990s up to 2004. He led many protests against the liquidation of the former national carrier, the Nigeria Airways Limited and the take-off of Virgin Nigeria Airways. A statement by Orighomisan Kay Agbeyegbe on behalf of the family reads: “Exactly 10 years ago, on a regular Tuesday morning on the 12th day of October, 2004, Captain Jerry Eyituoyo Omakpome Agbeyegbe was

Late Agbeyegbe

felled by the bullets of assassins. “Today we look back and imagine all what could have been, were our husband, brother and father still with us today. We are, however, much grateful to God for his mercies and consoled by our belief that he is resting in the bosom of the Almighty. “Or maybe not, as we also imagine that Jerry, the aviation activist popularly called “Mr Safety,” would be standing up in the heavens, still keeping a watch over the Nigerian skies, with his charismatic broad smile on his face and saying: ‘As regulatory officials, airline operators, air traffic controller, pilots and engineers, we must all strive to conduct our operations with the highest consideration for safety, even at great

economic risk.’ “For all of us, safety must not just be spoken words and broken promises, but should be in our every deed and action, it must be a way of life, this is the only way we can restore public confidence and guaranty the survival of the aviation industry.” Agbeyegbe, a former President of the National association of Airline Pilot and engineers (NAAPE) was Nigeria’s foremost airspace system inspection specialist, with over 25 years’ experience in the aviation industry, spanning corporate and charter, training school, commuter airline, regulatory authority and special application-aerial inspections operations. “As a former chief pilot in charge of airspace system inspection in the defunct Federal Civil Aviation Authority (FCAA), Agbeyegbe under a joint United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)’s ‘Rehabilitation of Nigerian Airspace Project’ was responsible for restoring some measure of confidence in the nation’s airspace by the international aviation community in the early 1990s. He was a member of a three-man ICAO/UNDP committee which drafted an Airspace Systems Inspection Procedure manual for

the country and was equally actively involved as a calibration pilot/instructor, in the training and manpower development programmes for flight inspection/Calibration personnel. “A qualified instrument Enroute and Approach Procedures Development specialist, the first Nigerian calibration pilot to be so privileged, Agbeyegbe also pioneered the first ever airspace safety audit in the country, widely acclaimed by the International Federation of Airline Pilots Association (IFALPA), during his tenure as the president of the pilots and engineers association. NAAPE also rededicated itself to upholding professional integrity and safe aircraft operations became the thrust of his tenure. “Captain Agbeyegbe was Director of Operation at Millennium Air Aerial patrol, a private sector initiative towards addressing the threats of pipeline vandalisation, environmental pollution and airspace systems unreliability.It is on record that Agbeyegbe said that he would like to see the establishment of a quality control department at NAMA to be called the “Airspace Systems Standards” to cater for the crucial role of auditing the services provided by the agency. NAMA must develop the capability to determine and guaranty the quality of services being

provided in the airspace, be they communication, navigation or surveillance. The agency’s commitment to safety demands no less. This must be top priority at NAMA. “The practice of relying on ASCENA, the Dakar based French calibration company to calibrate our navaids should not be entertained beyond serving as a stop-gap measure, it is neither cost effective, nor a pragmatic response to the challenges of meeting with ICAO navigational aids flight checking periodicity requirements. Given the number of facilities it has responsibility over, the ultimate goal of the agency should be to develop an in-house flight checking capability. “Jerry was the founder and former Chairman of Concerned aviation Professionals (CAP), a non-governmental, non-profit group, and the Nigerian Aviation Safety Initiative (NASI) an NGO dedicated to the ideals of promoting Aviation safety in concert with other NGOs, professional bodies and Civil liberty organizations such as national Association of Airline Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), the aviation roundtable (ART), Air Transport Service Senior Staff association (ATSSSAN) and the National Union of Air Transport Employee (NUATE) to mention a few.

Business | Money Line

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014

Nigeria generates N2.6tn revenue in Q2 COFFERS

More money in govt’s kitty translates to more development Godson Ikoro

he total federa l ly - c o l l e c t e d revenue stood at N2.60 billion, representing an increase of 4.3 per cent above the receipts in the first quarter of 2014, the Central Bank of Nigeria has said. In the second quarter report released yesterday, the lenders watchdog said that the federally collected revenue recorded a decline of 4.3 per cent below the proportionate quarterly budgeted estimate. Going by the report, at N1.79 billion, oil receipts, which constituted 69.0 per cent of the total exceeded the proportionate budget estimate marginally by 0.2 per cent, but fell by 0.7 per cent below the receipts when compared to the preceding quarter. The increase in oil receipts relative to the proportionate budget

(mbd) or 173.81 million barrels for the quarter. Out of this, crude oil export stood at 1.46 mbd or 131.4 million barrels for the quarter, while deliveries to the refineries for domestic consumption remained at 0.45 mbd or 40.95 million barrels. The average price of Nigeria’s reference crude, the Bonny Light (370 API), rose by 1.7 per cent above the level in the first quarter of 2014. Similarly the end-period headline inflation rate (year-on-year) was 8.2 per cent, compared with the 7.8 and 8.4 per cent recorded at the end of the preceding

estimate was attributed, largely to the rise in the other oil revenues during the review period. Furthermore, the report also stated that nonoil receipts at N806.45 billion was below the budget estimate by 13.1 per cent, but was 17.4 per cent above the receipts in the preceding quarter. Out of the total revenue, the Federal Government retained N864.15 billion, while total expenditure was N1, 193.52 billion. Thus, the fiscal operations of the Federal Government resulted in an estimated deficit of N329.37 billion in the second quarter of 2014, compared with the quarterly budget and the preceding quarter’s deficit of N241.1 billion and N202.7 billion, respectively. According to the apex bank, activities in the agricultural sector improved slightly in the second quarter as a result of well distributed rainfall in most parts of the country. Nigeria’s crude oil production, including condensates and natural gas liquids, was estimated at an average of 1.91 million barrels per day

Chris Ugwu

he United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc and global money transfer giant, MoneyGram, yesterday launched outbound money transfers in Nigeria. The newly launched MoneyGram outbound money transfer service allows Nigerians to send money abroad through any UBA branch in Nigeria or Africa while the funds are received in dollar or the currency of the receiving country. With this service, Nigerians can send money in naira,

As at N14,737,618.7m N16,509,472.5m 8 0.0000 12 10.899 7.96 17.01 US$109.9 US$42,604,781,796.6

Description

TTM

4.00% 23-Apr-2015 13.05% 16-Aug-2016 15.10% 27-Apr-2017 16.00% 29-Jun-2019 16.39% 27-Jan-2022 10.00% 23-Jul-2030

1.21 2.53 3.22 5.39 7.98 16.47

Tenor (Days) Call 7 30 60 90 180 365

Rate (%) 11.9167 12.3333 12.6667 12.9167 13.2167 13.5000 13.7500

NIBOR

Dec, 2013 Dec, 2013 Dec, 2013 2/5/2014 1/20/2014 11/6/2013 Dec, 2013 Dec, 2013 1/20/2014 2/5/2014 Source:CBN

FGN Bonds Bid Price 90.20 99.25 104.10 109.35 114.15 76.60

Offer Yield 13.01 13.40 13.47 13.49 13.44 13.59

Price 90.35 99.40 104.40 109.65 114.45 76.90

Tenor (Months) 1 2 3 6 9 12

Rate (%) 12.1827 12.2737 12.3744 12.8521 12.8535 13.8443

Treasury Bills Maturity Date 08-May-14 07-Aug-14 22-Jan-15

Bid 12.10 12.10 12.05

Bid Spot ($/N) 163.28 THE FIXINGS –NIBOR,NITTY and NIFEX of February 6,2014

NITTY

Yield 12.86 13.33 13.35 13.42 13.38 13.53

Money Market Offer 11.85 11.85 11.80 Offer 163.38

rised dealers amounted to $10.79 billion, compared with $14.40 billion in the first quarter of 2014. The average exchange rate of the naira vis-à-vis the US dollar at the RDAS window was N157.29 per US dollar, indicating a marginal appreciation over its levels in the preceding quarter and the corresponding quarter of 2013. Similarly, relative to their respective levels, in the first quarter of 2014, the naira appreciated by 1.6 per cent and 0.3 per cent at both the bureau-de-change and interbank segments of the market.

UBA, MoneyGram unveil new money transfer service

Economic Indicators M2* CPS* INF IBR MPR 91-day NTB DPR PLR Bonny Light Ext Res**

quarter and the corresponding quarter of 2013, respectively. Inflation rate on a 12-month moving average basis was 8.0 per cent, compared with 8.2 and 10.4 per cent in the preceding quarter and the corresponding quarter of 2013, respectively. Provisional data indicated that foreign exchange inflow and outflow through the CBN amounted to $12.67 billion and $12.81 billion, respectively, resulting in a net outflow of $0.14 billion during the review quarter. Foreign exchange sales by the CBN to the autho-

Open-Buy-Back (OBB) Overnight (O/N)

Rate (%) 11.33 11.63

NIFEX Spot ($/N)

Bid 163.4000

Offer 163.5000 Source: FMDQ

while the person receiving in UK or USA will receive it in pounds or dollars. The outbound money transfer service allows Nigerians to send money in naira to over 200 countries around the world. The launch, which held at UBA’s head office in Marina, Lagos, was hosted by UBA’s GMD/CEO, Phillips Oduoza, who had a live demonstration of how the service would work by sending money from Nigeria to Ghana. He sent naira, which was received in real time in Ghana cedis by the CEO of UBA Ghana. The transaction was witnessed by the media and other assembled guests both in Ghana and Nigeria via video link. Speaking during the event, Oduoza said the new UBA and MoneyGram outbound money transfer service would boost trade and business between African countries as many Nigerians who do business across Africa, no longer had to move around with cash as they

can easily transfer money to their business partners in other African countries or in China, Europe and America to pay for goods and services bought. He described the new money transfer service tagged ‘Naija Sends’ as yet another testimony to the innovative, customer-centric disposition of both UBA and MoneyGram. “This service opens a new vista of opportunity for Nigerians to easily trade with other Africans and also trade with other parts of the world. It also offers a great platform to send money to loved ones abroad. As Africa’s global bank, we are proud to partner with MoneyGram to make this service available. It opens a whole new world of opportunities for our customers” Oduoza said. On her part, Regional Manager, Anglophone West Africa, MoneyGram, Mrs. Kemi Okusanya, said the launch of ‘Naija Sends’ had further deepened the brand’s reach and service in Nigeria.

FBN Capital plans investors’ conference 2014 Godson Ikoro

ow Nigeria can capitalise on GDP rebasing will take the centre stage as FBN Capital Limited (the investment banking and asset management subsidiary of FBN Holdings Plc) hosts its 4th Annual Investor Conference in Lagos next month. With its Theme: Lifting the Lid on Emerging Nigeria, Professor Anil K. Gupta, an International Expert on Strategy, Globalisation and Emerging Markets will be the Guest Speaker. He will present his ideas on how Nigeria can handle the “too big to ignore” tag which comes with the elevated position the country finds itself in. Also expected are senior representatives from government agencies that are responsible for facilitating monetary policy and funding

growth enterprises such as CBN, PENCOM, NMRC, and BOI. Over the last three years, FBN Capital has explored key aspects of Nigeria’s economic evolution as it transits from a frontier to an emerging economy. This year, FBN capital will consider how Nigeria can capitalise on the recent GDP rebasing, which has propelled it to the position of the largest economy in Africa and also shine the spotlight on previously under-represented fast growing sectors of the economy which the recent rebasing has brought into focus. As with other years, the company has invited senior representatives from the public sector that are responsible for the emerging sectors in addition to key operators from the private sector involved in manufacturing and technology amongst others.

Business | Financial Market News

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

13-Oct-14

The FMDQ Daily Quotations List (DQL) comprises market and model prices/rates of foreign exchange ($/N) products, fixed income securities and instruments in the OTC market. The use of this report is subject to the FMDQ OTC PLC Terms of Use and Disclaimer Statement on www.fmdqotc.com.

Bonds FGN Bonds

Price

Rating/Agency

Issuer

Description 4.00 23-APR-2015 13.05 16-AUG-2016 15.10 27-APR-2017 9.85 27-JUL-2017 9.35 31-AUG-2017 10.70 30-MAY-2018 16.00 29-JUN-2019 7.00 23-OCT-2019 16.39 27-JAN-2022 14.20 14-MAR-2024 15.00 28-NOV-2028 12.49 22-MAY-2029 8.50 20-NOV-2029 10.00 23-JUL-2030 12.1493 18-JUL-2034

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs)

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

Bid Price

Offer Price

23-Apr-10 16-Aug-13 27-Apr-12 27-Jul-07 31-Aug-07 30-May-08 29-Jun-12 23-Oct-09 27-Jan-12 14-Mar-14 28-Nov-08 22-May-09 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10 18-Jul-14

4.00 13.05 15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 16.39 14.20 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493

535.00 545.27 452.80 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 600.00 331.35 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 105.00

23-Apr-15 16-Aug-16 27-Apr-17 27-Jul-17 31-Aug-17 30-May-18 29-Jun-19 23-Oct-19 27-Jan-22 14-Mar-24 28-Nov-28 22-May-29 20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30 18-Jul-34

0.53 1.84 2.54 2.79 2.88 3.63 4.71 5.03 7.29 9.42 14.13 14.61 15.10 15.78 19.76

11.73 12.43 12.50 12.56 12.57 12.62 12.64 12.70 12.67 12.67 12.64 12.63 12.62 12.63 12.38

11.41 12.34 12.43 12.50 12.50 12.51 12.56 12.60 12.61 12.62 12.59 12.58 12.56 12.58 12.33

96.15 100.95 105.50 93.74 92.39 94.51 111.60 79.28 117.30 108.25 115.35 99.06 72.48 82.15 98.30

96.30 101.10 105.65 93.89 92.54 94.81 111.90 79.58 117.60 108.55 115.65 99.36 72.78 82.45 98.60

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

4,591.19

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

4,557.77

Rating/Agency

Issuer

Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Indicative Price

28-Dec-11 24-May-10 03-Apr-12 09-Dec-11 20-Apr-12 06-Jul-12

0.00 0.00 17.25 0.00/16.00 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50

978.35 24.56 3.00 112.22 116.70 66.49

31-Oct-14 24-May-15 03-Apr-17 09-Dec-16 20-Apr-17 06-Jul-17

0.05 0.61 1.35 2.16 2.52 2.73

1.00 2.63 2.27 2.00 1.00 1.00

12.34 14.33 14.21 14.52 13.55 13.56

99.40 91.85 103.66 100.28 98.12 95.40

Agency Bonds AMCON FMBN

***LCRM

0.00 AMCON 31-OCT-2014 (SR.5 TR.1) 0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 0.00/16.00 LCRM 09-DEC-2016 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 20-APR-2017 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,301.32

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,288.62

Sub-National Bonds NIGER

14.00 NIGER 15-OCT-2014

15-Oct-09

14.00

6.00

15-Oct-14

0.01

3.29

14.60

99.99

A+/Agusto

KADUNA

12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015

31-Aug-10

12.50

8.50

31-Aug-15

0.88

4.44

16.04

97.15

A/Agusto

*EBONYI

13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015

30-Sep-10

13.00

4.18

30-Sep-15

0.72

3.23

14.89

98.96

A-/Agusto

*BENUE

14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-11

14.00

6.27

30-Jun-16

1.01

4.46

16.03

98.51

A+/Agusto

*IMO

15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-09

15.50

7.37

30-Jun-16

1.01

3.48

15.06

100.97

A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

LAGOS

10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017

19-Apr-10

10.00

57.00

19-Apr-17

2.52

5.59

18.14

84.11

A-/Agusto

*BAYELSA

13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017

30-Jun-10

13.75

29.92

30-Jun-17

1.56

1.00

13.15

101.16

A/Agusto

EDO

14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017

30-Dec-10

14.00

25.00

31-Dec-17

3.22

1.79

14.38

98.98

A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

*DELTA

14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018

30-Sep-11

14.00

34.14

30-Sep-18

2.39

1.80

14.34

99.41

A-/Agusto; A-/GCR

NIGER

14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018

04-Oct-11

14.00

9.00

04-Oct-18

3.98

1.00

13.64

101.06

A/Agusto; A-/GCR†

*EKITI

14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018

09-Dec-11

14.50

14.96

09-Dec-18

2.39

1.00

13.54

102.12

A-/Agusto

*NIGER

14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018

12-Dec-13

14.00

11.13

12-Dec-18

2.39

4.78

17.32

93.90

A/Agusto; A-/GCR

*ONDO

15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019

14-Feb-12

15.50

27.00

14-Feb-19

2.77

1.00

13.56

102.10

A/Agusto; A-/GCR

*GOMBE

15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019

02-Oct-12

15.50

16.23

02-Oct-19

3.02

1.00

13.58

104.53

Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR

LAGOS

14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019

22-Nov-12

14.50

80.00

22-Nov-19

5.11

1.00

13.70

102.83

A/Agusto; A-/GCR

*OSUN

14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019

12-Dec-12

14.75

27.51

12-Dec-19

2.99

2.74

15.32

98.75

A/Agusto

*OSUN

14.75 OSUN II 30-SEP-2020

30-Sep-13

14.75

11.40

30-Sep-20

3.52

1.00

13.61

103.03

Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR

LAGOS

13.50 LAGOS IV 27-NOV-2020

27-Nov-13

13.50

87.00

27-Nov-20

6.12

1.00

13.71

99.11

A-/Agusto; BBB+/DataPro

KOGI

15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020

31-Dec-13

15.00

5.00

31-Dec-20

6.22

1.94

14.65

101.33

A/Agusto A-/GCR

*EKITI *NASARAWA

14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021

31-Dec-13

14.50

4.78

31-Dec-20

3.70

1.44

14.06

101.34

06-Jan-14

15.00

4.79

06-Jan-21

3.73

1.95

14.58

101.31

A-/GCR

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

477.18 470.43

Corporate Bonds Aa/Agusto Nil Bbb-/Agusto A-/Agusto

GTB NGC

13.50 GUARANTY TRUST 18-DEC-2014

18-Dec-09

13.50

13.17

18-Dec-14

0.18

5.21

16.64

99.33

17.00 NGC 31-DEC-2014

01-Apr-10

17.00

2.00

31-Dec-14

0.22

8.71

20.16

99.15

*UPDC

10.00 UPDC 17-AUG-2015

17-Aug-10

10.00

3.61

17-Aug-15

0.60

4.88

16.58

96.76

*FLOURMILLS

12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015

09-Dec-10

12.00

13.62

09-Dec-15

0.68

1.00

12.68

100.04 100.47

BB+/GCR

*CHELLARAMS

14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016

06-Jan-11

14.00

0.60

06-Jan-16

0.75

2.63

14.28

A+/Agusto; A-/GCR

NAHCO

13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016

29-Sep-11

13.00

15.00

29-Sep-16

1.96

1.00

13.47

99.19

A-/Agusto

FSDH

14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016

25-Oct-13

14.25

5.53

25-Oct-16

2.03

1.34

13.85

100.68

A/GCR

UBA

13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017

30-Sep-10

13.00

20.00

30-Sep-17

2.97

1.00

13.58

98.62

BBB-/GCR

18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017

30-Nov-12

18.00

0.73

30-Nov-17

1.78

1.88

14.21

107.12

BBB+/DataPro†; BB+/GCR

*C & I LEASING *DANA#

MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018

09-Apr-11

16.00

6.30

09-Apr-18

1.99

3.48

15.97

100.07

A-/DataPro†; BB-/GCR

*TOWER#

MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

09-Sep-11

18.00

2.90

09-Sep-18

2.16

5.20

17.72

100.70

AAA/DataPro†; A+/GCR

*TOWER

MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

09-Sep-11

16.00

0.80

09-Sep-18

2.16

5.06

17.58

101.76

A/Agusto; A/GCR

UBA

14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018

22-Sep-11

14.00

35.00

22-Sep-18

3.94

1.35

13.99

100.00

Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR

*LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS#

15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018

18-Oct-13

15.75

2.70

18-Oct-18

2.01

2.29

14.79

MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019

17-Feb-12

17.00

0.41

17-Feb-19

2.35

6.11

18.64

97.33

01-Apr-14

16.00

4.50

01-Apr-19

3.22

2.16

14.75

103.09

BBB-/DataPro†; BB+/GCR

101.75

*DANA

16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019

A+/Agusto; A-/GCR

NAHCO

15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020

14-Nov-13

15.25

2.05

14-Nov-20

6.09

2.76

15.47

99.12

A/GCR

STANBIC IBTC

182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IA 30-SEP-2024

30-Sep-14

N/A

0.10

30-Sep-24

9.97

1.00

13.70

86.61

A/GCR

STANBIC IBTC

13.25 STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024

30-Sep-14

13.25

15.44

30-Sep-24

9.97

1.00

13.70

97.58

11-Feb-18

3.33

1.00

13.60

91.10

Bid Price

Offer Price

BBB/GCR

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

144.46

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

143.75

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

IFC

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

12.00 10.93

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

Issuer

Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value ($mm)

Maturity Date

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

6.75 JAN 28, 2021

07-Oct-11

6.75

500.00

28-Jan-21

5.06

4.92

108.98

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

BB-/Fitch; B+/S&P BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

FGN

BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

109.81

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

12-Jul-13

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

4.18

3.95

103.23

104.03

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

12-Jul-13

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

5.35

5.24

107.05

107.89

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,596.27

Corporate Eurobonds B/Fitch; B-/S&P

AFREN PLC I

11.50 FEB 01, 2016

01-Feb-11

11.50

450.00

01-Feb-16

7.35

105.00

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC I

7.50 MAY 19, 2016

19-May-11

7.50

500.00

19-May-16

4.19

105.04

105.04 101.72

B+/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

6.56

101.72

B/Fitch; B/S&P

FIDELITY BANK PLC

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

8.57

8.13

94.89

96.17

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

5.92

5.64

100.27

101.29 105.75

B/Fitch

AFREN PLC II

10.25 APR 08, 2019

08-Apr-12

10.25

300.00

08-Apr-19

8.67

105.75

B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P

ZENITH BANK PLC

6.25 APR 22, 2019

22-Apr-14

6.25

500.00

22-Apr-19

6.35

99.63

B/Fitch; B/S&P

DIAMOND BANK PLC

8.75 May 21, 2019

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

8.92

8.65

99.35

100.37 101.63

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

FIRST BANK PLC

8.25 AUG 07, 2020

07-Aug-13

8.25

300.00

07-Aug-20

7.68

101.63

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

AFREN PLC III

6.63 DEC 09, 2020

09-Dec-13

6.63

360.00

09-Dec-20

7.50

95.75

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC II

9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021

24-Jun-14

9.25

400.00

24-Jun-21

8.68

8.48

103.00

104.00

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

FIRST BANK LTD

B-/S&P

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021

23-Jul-14

8.00

450.00

23-Jul-21

7.48

101.63

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

14-Aug-14

8.75

250.00

14-Aug-21

8.35

8.14

100.96

102.02

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

4,760.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

4,824.84

**Treasury Bills DTM 10 17 24 31 38 45 52 59 73

FIXINGS Maturity 23-Oct-14 30-Oct-14 6-Nov-14 13-Nov-14 20-Nov-14 27-Nov-14 4-Dec-14 11-Dec-14 25-Dec-14

Bid Discount (%) 10.70 10.60 11.00 11.00 10.85 11.00 11.10 11.05 11.00

Offer Discount (%) 10.45 10.35 10.75 10.75 10.60 10.75 10.85 10.80 10.75

Bid Yield (%) 10.73 10.65 11.08 11.10 10.97 11.15 11.28 11.25 11.25

Money Market

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 10.7000 12.7078 13.4613 14.3059

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

10.29

O/N

10.54

Tenor Call 1M 3M

REPO

Rate (%) 10.33 12.19 12.96

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

Spot 7D 14D 1M 2M 3M 6M

163.75 164.48 164.74 165.47 166.68 168.03 172.05

163.85 164.69 165.09 166.09 167.86 169.73 175.23

Sub-National Bonds A-/GCR

NIGER

14.00 NIGER 15-OCT-2014

15-Oct-09

14.00

6.00

15-Oct-14

0.01

3.29

14.60

99.99

A+/Agusto

KADUNA

12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015

31-Aug-10

12.50

8.50

31-Aug-15

0.88

4.44

16.04

97.15

A/Agusto

*EBONYI

13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015

30-Sep-10

13.00

4.18

30-Sep-15

0.72

3.23

14.89

98.96

A-/Agusto

*BENUE

14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-11

14.00

6.27

30-Jun-16

1.01

4.46

16.03

98.51

A+/Agusto

*IMO

15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-09

15.50

7.37

30-Jun-16

1.01

3.48

15.06

100.97

A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

LAGOS

10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017

19-Apr-10

10.00

57.00

19-Apr-17

2.52

5.59

18.14

84.11

A-/Agusto

*BAYELSA

13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017

30-Jun-10

13.75

29.92

30-Jun-17

1.56

1.00

13.15

101.16

A/Agusto

EDO

14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017

30-Dec-10

14.00

25.00

31-Dec-17

3.22

1.79

14.38

98.98

14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018

30-Sep-11

14.00

34.14

30-Sep-18

2.39

1.80

14.34

99.41

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014 A+/Agusto; A+/GCR *DELTA

Business | Financial Market News

A-/Agusto; A-/GCR

NIGER

14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018

04-Oct-11

14.00

9.00

04-Oct-18

3.98

1.00

13.64

101.06

A/Agusto; A-/GCR†

*EKITI

14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018

09-Dec-11

14.50

14.96

09-Dec-18

2.39

1.00

13.54

102.12

A-/Agusto

*NIGER

14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018

12-Dec-13

14.00

11.13

12-Dec-18

2.39

4.78

17.32

93.90

A/Agusto; A-/GCR

*ONDO

15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019

14-Feb-12

15.50

27.00

14-Feb-19

2.77

1.00

13.56

102.10

15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019

02-Oct-12

15.50

16.23

02-Oct-19

3.02

1.00

13.58

104.53

14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019

22-Nov-12

14.50

80.00

22-Nov-19

5.11

1.00

13.70

102.83

12-Dec-12

14.75

27.51

12-Dec-19

2.99

2.74

15.32

98.75

30-Sep-13

14.75

11.40

30-Sep-20

3.52

1.00

13.61

103.03

27-Nov-13

13.50

87.00

27-Nov-20

6.12

1.00

13.71

99.11

31-Dec-13

15.00

5.00

31-Dec-20

6.22

1.94

14.65

101.33

31-Dec-13

14.50

4.78

31-Dec-20

3.70

1.44

14.06

101.34

06-Jan-14

15.00

4.79

06-Jan-21

3.73

1.95

14.58

101.31

DOMINANCE A/Agusto; A-/GCR Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR

*GOMBE LAGOS

Dangote Cement remains most capitalised stock with N3.73trillion

Dangote Cement has A/Agusto; A-/GCR *OSUN 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 A/Agusto *OSUN 14.75 OSUN II 30-SEP-2020 remained the main Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR LAGOS 13.50 LAGOS IV 27-NOV-2020 A-/Agusto; KOGI 15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020 pillar ofBBB+/DataPro the Nigerian A/Agusto *EKITI 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 Stock A-/GCR Exchange *NASARAWA 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021 geria’s corporate leadTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE (NSE). TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATIONers.

BusinessWorld 100 annual rankings give inCorporate Bonds dications of13.50 operational GUARANTY TRUST 18-DEC-2014 Aa/Agusto GTB efficiency, apart from volµ 17.00 NGC 31-DEC-2014 NGC Nil Stories by Chris Ugwu ume of key 10.00 operating figUPDC 17-AUG-2015 Bbb-/Agusto *UPDC FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015 A-/Agusto ith a market ures. This is12.00 the seventh *FLOURMILLS 14.00 survey CHELLARAMS BB+/GCR c a p i t a l*CHELLARAMS i s a - edition of the . 06-JAN-2016 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 A+/Agusto; A-/GCR NAHCO tion of N3.73 Dangote13.00 Cement Plc 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 A-/Agusto FSDH was also ranked as the trillion, Dan13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 A/GCR UBA Most Profitable Comgote Cement has contin18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017 BBB-/GCR *C & I LEASING ued to maintain its *DANA lead# pany in Nigeria, with a MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 BBB+/DataPro†; BB+/GCR MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 BB-/GCR *TOWER# profit of N201billion on A-/DataPro†; the floor of the Nigein MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 AAA/DataPro†; A+/GCR *TOWER# 2013. Zenith rian Stock Exchange. Bank Plc 14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018 A/Agusto; A/GCR Trailing DangoteUBA Ce- and Guaranty Bank Plc 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR *LA CASERA ment are the Nigerian (GTBank) were ranked MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 BBB-/DataPro†; BB+/GCR *CHELLARAMS# Breweries and Nestle next with of 16.00profit DANA II 1-APR-2019 BBB/GCR *DANA N95billion 15.25 and N90bilNigeria, of the manNAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 A+/Agusto; all A-/GCR NAHCO 182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IA 30-SEP-2024 A/GCR STANBIC ufacturing sector with a IBTC lion respectively . STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024 A/GCR capitalisation STANBIC market of IBTC Recent 13.25 investment TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE by Investment CorporaN1.3 trillion and N951.2 TOTALrespectively MARKET CAPITALISATION billion . tion of Dubai (ICD), the Dangote Cement won main investment arm of Supranational Bond three out of five categothe Emirate of Dubai, 10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018 AAA/S&P IFC ries in the survey of Ni- which acquired 243,500 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

FGN Eurobonds

6.75 JAN 28, 2021

n order to help create development. deeper connections FGNThe statement said: 5.13 JUL 12, 2018 and build a new cad“Participants are drawn BB-/Fitch; 6.38 JUL 12, 2023 re BB-/S&P of leadership among from various sectors business leaders in NigeTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE including regulators, ria,TOTAL Stanbic IBTC Hold- investors and the busiMARKET CAPITALISATION ings Plc has concluded ness community. In this Corporate Eurobonds arrangement for this year’s edition, inter11.50 FEB 01, 2016 B/Fitch;edition B-/S&P AFREN PLC Inational speaker, Vusi years’ of Busi7.50 MAY 19, 2016 B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLCThembekwayo, I ness Leadership Series. will lead 7.25 JUL 25, 2017 B+/S&P bank, in a stateACCESS BANK PLCsession, along with The the 6.88 MAY 09, 2018 B/Fitch; B/S&P FIDELITY BANK PLC ment, said this years’ Sim Shagaya, founder 6.00 NOV 08, 2018 B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC series slated to hold of online retail chain, 10.25 APR 08, 2019 B/Fitch AFREN PLC II on B+/Fitch; October 16 in Lagos Konga. Jointly, they will 6.25 APR 22, 2019 BB-/S&P ZENITH BANK PLC would focus on improvshare insights from the 8.75 May 21, 2019 B/Fitch; B/S&P DIAMOND BANK PLC ingB-/Fitch; leadership with businesses they run 8.25 AUG 07, 2020 B/S&P FIRST BANK PLC theB-/Fitch; underlying goal of PLC IIIand how they have kept 6.63 DEC 09, 2020 B/S&P AFREN advancing Nigeria’s these onUSD the 9.25/6M LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021 B-/Fitch; B/S&P ACCESS BANK PLC II businesses B-/Fitch; B/S&Pgrowth FIRST LTD economic andBANKcutting edge. 8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021 BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

B-/S&P

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

2.05

14-Nov-20

6.09

2.76

15.47

99.12

30-Sep-14

N/A

0.10

30-Sep-24

9.97

1.00

13.70

86.61

30-Sep-14

13.25

15.44

30-Sep-24

9.97

1.00

13.70

97.58

14-Aug-14

capital of the bank be increased from N311-Feb-18 billion 12.00 made up of 24 billion or12.00 dinary shares of 50 kobo 10.93 each and two billion preference shares ofMaturity 50 kobo Outstanding Value Date each($mm) to N20 billion by the creation of 14 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo 500.00 28-Jan-21 each.” Also, resolutions 500.00 12-Jul-18 were passed authoris500.00 12-Jul-23 ing the amendment of the1,500.00 Memorandum and Articles 1,596.27of Association of the bank to reflect the changes resulting from 450.00 the rights issue.01-Feb-16 500.00Chairman, 19-May-16 The Ac25-Jul-17 cess350.00 Bank, Mr. Gbenga 300.00 02-May-18 Oyebode, while address400.00 08-Nov-18 ing shareholders on the 300.00 08-Apr-19 right500.00 issue, said,22-Apr-19 “In furtherance of the21-May-19 bank’s 200.00 objectives of ranking 300.00 07-Aug-20 as one three 360.00of the top 09-Dec-20 banks in its chosen mar400.00 24-Jun-21 23-Jul-21 ket, 450.00 management has

8.75

250.00

0.68 0.75 1.96 2.03 2.97 1.78 1.99 2.16 2.16 3.94 2.01 2.35

14-Aug-21

3.33

Bid Yield (%)

5.06 4.18 5.35

7.35 4.19 6.56 8.57 5.92 8.67 6.35 8.92 7.68 7.50 8.68 7.48 8.35

identified certain sectors and market segments as 1.00 13.60 91.10 growth opportunities for the next five years. In line with the plan, your bank developed a Offer Yield (%) Bid Price Offer Price disciplined capital plan to support Prices & Yields this growth objective.” 4.92 108.98 109.81 Oyebode noted that as part of the plan 3.95 103.23 104.03and following the approval 5.24 107.05 107.89 of the shareholders, the bank had earlier in the year raised $300m in Tier2 (debt) capital to create head room for credit 7.35growth105.00 105.00 the and extend 4.19duration 105.04 105.04 of the foreign 6.56currency 101.72 balance101.72 sheet. 8.13 94.89 He noted that in96.17 order 5.64 100.27 101.29 to continually support 8.67 105.75 105.75 growth 99.63 over the next five 6.35 99.63 years, enhancement of 8.65 99.35 100.37 7.68the bank’s 101.63Tier-1 (equity) 101.63 was critical 7.50capital base 95.75 95.75 of its 8.48to the realisation 103.00 104.00 7.48objectives. 101.63 101.63 8.14

4,760.00

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

0.60

143.75

ith 96.9 per cent of total 10.20 vote 11-Feb-13 cast, shareholders of Access Bank Plc gave approval to the proposal by the Coupon bank’s Issue Date (%) Board of Directors to raise additional equity capital of N68 billion by 07-Oct-11 6.75 way of rights issue. As12-Jul-13 part of eight5.13 special resolution at the 12-Jul-13 6.38 bank’s Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) held yesterday in Lagos, shareholders authorised the bank to raise addi01-Feb-11 11.50 tional equity in the ratio, 19-May-11 7.50 on such terms and condi7.25 tions25-Jul-12 and on such dates 09-May-13 6.88 as may be determined by 08-Nov-13 6.00 the directors, subject to 08-Apr-12 10.25 obtaining the approvals 22-Apr-14 6.25 of the relevant regula21-May-14 8.75 tory 07-Aug-13 authorities. 8.25 The shareholders6.63 also 09-Dec-13 passed a resolution “that 24-Jun-14 9.25 8.00 the 23-Jul-14 authorised share

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

15.25

Description

BB-/Fitch; B+/S&P

14-Nov-13

0.18 0.22

144.46

Stanbic IBTC holds business leadership forum Issuer

3.22

ration of Dubai, HE Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani and President of Dangote Industries 5.21 16.64 99.33 Limited, Alhaji 99.15 Aliko 8.71 20.16 to 4.88Dangote, 16.58ICD agreed 96.76 1.00invest $300m 12.68 100.04N48 (about 2.63billion)14.28 100.47 to acquire a mi1.00 13.47 99.19 nority interest. 1.34 13.85 100.68 Dangote Cement, 1.00 13.58 98.62 which has in recent 1.88 14.21 107.12 signifi3.48years achieved 15.97 100.07 5.20cant revenue 17.72 100.70 growth 5.06and industry-leading 17.58 101.76 1.35 13.99 100.00 margins, has market 2.29 14.79 101.75 capitalisation of ap6.11 18.64 97.33 proximately $23bn. 2.16 14.75 103.09

Shareholders endorse N68 bn Access Bank’s rights issue

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

the 477.18 Nigeria Stock Exchange, 470.43 forms part of the Dangote Group, a diversified conglomerate 13.17 18-Dec-14 of African businesses, 2.00 31-Dec-14 founded 3.61 and controlled 17-Aug-15 13.62 09-Dec-15reby internationally 0.60 Nigerian 06-Jan-16 nowned busi29-Sep-16 ness15.00 leader Aliko Dan5.53 25-Oct-16 gote.20.00 30-Sep-17 Under the terms 0.73 30-Nov-17 of the agreement, which 6.30 09-Apr-18 2.90 09-Sep-18 was signed at a ceremo0.80Dubai attended 09-Sep-18 ny in 35.00 22-Sep-18 by the Executive Di2.70 18-Oct-18 rector and CEO of the 0.41 17-Feb-19 Investment of 01-Apr-19 Corpo4.50

million units of Dangote Cement Plc for $300 million (about N48 billion) was indeed a boost to the 18-Dec-09 13.50 company and its share01-Apr-10 17.00 holders. 17-Aug-10 10.00 09-Dec-10 12.00 The sale and purchase 06-Jan-11 of the shares were14.00 exe13.00 cuted29-Sep-11 by Meristem Secu25-Oct-13 14.25 rities30-Sep-10 Limited, a dealing 13.00 member of the Nigerian 30-Nov-12 18.00 Stock Exchange (NSE) 09-Apr-11 16.00 09-Sep-11 18.00 while Guaranty Trust Bank09-Sep-11 Plc acted as16.00 the 22-Sep-11 14.00 banker. 18-Oct-13 15.75 Dangote Cement, 17-Feb-12 17.00 which is listed 01-Apr-14 16.00on

100.96

102.02

13-Oct-14

4,824.84

The FMDQ Daily Quotations List (DQL) comprises market and model prices/rates of foreign exchange ($/N) products, fixedFIXINGS income securities and instruments in the OTC market. The use of this report is subject to **Treasury Bills Money Market Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) the FMDQ DTM OTC PLC Terms of Use and Disclaimer Statement on www.fmdqotc.com. Maturity Bid Discount (%) Offer Discount (%) Bid Yield (%) Tenor Rate (%)

10 23-Oct-14 10.70 17 30-Oct-14 10.60 24 6-Nov-14 11.00 FGN Bonds 31 13-Nov-14 11.00 38 20-Nov-14 10.85 Rating/Agency Issuer Description 45 27-Nov-14 11.00 52 4-Dec-14 11.10 4.00 23-APR-2015 59 11-Dec-14 11.05 13.05 16-AUG-2016 73 25-Dec-14 11.00 15.10 27-APR-2017 80 1-Jan-15 11.00 87 8-Jan-15 11.05 9.85 27-JUL-2017 94 15-Jan-15 11.00 9.35 31-AUG-2017 101 22-Jan-15 10.80 10.70 30-MAY-2018 108 29-Jan-15 11.00 16.00 29-JUN-2019 115 5-Feb-15 10.85 NA NA 7.00 23-OCT-2019 122 12-Feb-15 11.05 16.39 27-JAN-2022 129 19-Feb-15 10.85 14.20 14-MAR-2024 136 26-Feb-15 11.10 15.00 28-NOV-2028 143 5-Mar-15 11.00 12.49 22-MAY-2029 150 12-Mar-15 11.00 8.50 20-NOV-2029 164 26-Mar-15 11.00 10.00 23-JUL-2030 178 9-Apr-15 11.10 192 23-Apr-15 10.85 12.1493 18-JUL-2034 206 7-May-15 10.40 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE 297 6-Aug-15 10.80 325 10.60 TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION3-Sep-15 *from the Amortising bonds, the average life is calculated and not the duration

NIBOR

Bonds

10.45 10.35 10.75 10.75 10.60 Issue Date 10.75 10.85 23-Apr-10 10.80 16-Aug-13 10.75 27-Apr-12 10.75 10.80 27-Jul-07 10.75 31-Aug-07 10.55 30-May-08 10.75 29-Jun-12 10.60 23-Oct-09 10.80 27-Jan-12 10.60 14-Mar-14 10.85 28-Nov-08 10.75 22-May-09 10.75 20-Nov-09 10.75 23-Jul-10 10.85 10.60 18-Jul-14 10.15 10.55 10.35

10.73 10.65 11.08 11.10 10.97 Coupon 11.15(%) 11.28 4.00 11.25 13.05 11.25 15.10 11.27 11.35 9.85 11.32 9.35 11.13 10.70 11.37 16.00 11.23 7.00 11.47 16.39 11.28 14.20 11.58 15.00 11.50 12.49 11.52 8.50 11.57 10.00 11.74 11.51 12.1493 11.05 11.84 11.70

Tenor O/N 1M 3M Value Outstanding 6M (N'bn)

Rate (%) 10.7000 12.7078 13.4613 Maturity Date 14.3059

535.00 23-Apr-15 545.27 16-Aug-16 NITTY 452.80 27-Apr-17 Tenor Rate (%) 20.00 27-Jul-17 1M 11.0034 100.00 31-Aug-17 2M 11.2112 300.00 30-May-18 3M 11.2200 351.30 29-Jun-19 6M 11.5963 233.90 23-Oct-19 9M 11.8146 600.00 27-Jan-22 12M 12.0688 331.35 14-Mar-24 75.00 28-Nov-28 150.00 22-May-29 NIFEX 20-Nov-29 200.00 591.57 23-Jul-30 Current Price ($/N) BID($/N)105.00 164.2850 18-Jul-34

OFFER ($/N)

4,591.19

OBB

10.29

O/N

10.54

REPO TTM (Yrs) BidRate Yield Tenor (%)(%) Call 0.53 1M 1.84 3M 2.54 6M

10.33 11.73 12.19 12.43 12.96 12.50 13.63

Description

Issue Date

Spot 7D 14DYield Offer 1M (%) 2M 11.41 3M 12.34 6M 12.43 1Y

2.79 12.56 12.50 2.88 12.57 12.50 3.63 12.62 12.51 :Benchmarks 4.71 12.64 12.56 * :Amortising Bond 5.03 12.70 12.60 µ :Convertible Bond 7.29 12.67 12.61 AMCON: Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria 9.42 12.67 12.62 FGN: Federal Government of Nigeria 14.13 Mortgage Bank 12.64 12.59 FMBN: Federal of Nigeria 14.61 12.63 12.58 IFC: International Finance Corporation 15.10Contractors Receivables 12.62 12.56 LCRM: Local Management 12.63 Company12.58 NAHCO: 15.78 Nigerian Aviation Handling O/N: Overnight 19.76 12.38 12.33 NOTE:

164.3850

UPDC: UAC Property Development Company WAPCO:West Africa Portland Cement Company

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

163.75 Price 163.85 164.48 164.69 164.74 165.09 Bid Price Offer Price 165.47 166.09 166.68 167.86 96.15 96.30 168.03 169.73 100.95 101.10 172.05 175.23 105.50 105.65 181.40 186.40

93.74 93.89 92.39 92.54 94.51 94.81 NA :Not Applicable 111.60 111.90 # :Floating Rate Bond 79.28 79.58 ***: Deferred coupon bonds 117.30 117.60 108.25 108.55 †: Bond rating expired 115.35 115.65 N/A :Not Available 99.06 99.36 72.48 72.78 82.15 82.45 NGC: Nigeria-German Company UBA: United 98.30 Bank for Africa 98.60

4,557.77

Risk Premium is a combination of credit risk and liquidity risk premiums **Exclusive of non-trading t.bills Rating/Agency Issuer

Tenor

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

31-Oct-14 24-May-15 03-Apr-17 %09-Dec-16 Exposure_ 20-Apr-17 Mod_Duration 06-Jul-17

0.05 0.61 1.35 2.16 Implied Yield 2.52 2.73

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Indicative Price

Agency Bonds 0.00 AMCON 31-OCT-2014 (SR.5 TR.1) 0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 0.00/16.00 LCRM 09-DEC-2016 Total Outstanding Modified Duration Buckets Porfolio Market Value(Bn) 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 20-APR-2017 Volume(Bn) ***LCRM 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017 AMCON

FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,028.15

998.07

3<5

1,095.85

951.30

947.88

1,027.92

34.53

Market

3,071.88

2,977.29

100.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION >5 Sub-National Bonds

28-Dec-11 0.00 24-May-10 FMDQ FGN 0.00BOND 03-Apr-12 17.25 09-Dec-11by 0.00/16.00 Weighting Weighting by Mkt 20-Apr-12 Vol 0.00/16.50 Outstanding Value 06-Jul-12 0.00/16.50

33.52

33.47

31.95

35.67

978.35

INDEX24.56

3.00 112.22 116.70 66.49

Bucket Weighting

1,301.320.34

14.60

12.47

12.66

1.00 2.63 2.27 2.00 Implied 1.00Price Portfolio 1.00

118.2027

132.8284

12.34 14.33 14.21 14.52 INDEX 13.55 13.56

1,122.68

1,124.74

99.40 91.85 103.66 YTD100.28 Return 98.12 (%) 95.40

12.2685

0.32

30.86

1,288.620.35

31.27

12.4740

54.13

12.61

102.4241

1,197.52

19.7518

100.00

1.00

100.00

12.61

117.4283

1,121.34

12.1338

A-/GCR

NIGER

14.00 NIGER 15-OCT-2014

15-Oct-09

14.00

6.00

15-Oct-14

0.01

3.29

14.60

99.99

A+/Agusto

KADUNA

12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015

31-Aug-10

12.50

8.50

31-Aug-15

0.88

4.44

16.04

97.15

A/Agusto

*EBONYI

13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015

30-Sep-10

13.00

4.18

30-Sep-15

0.72

3.23

14.89

98.96

A-/Agusto

*BENUE

14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-11

14.00

6.27

30-Jun-16

1.01

4.46

16.03

98.51

A+/Agusto

*IMO

15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-09

15.50

7.37

30-Jun-16

1.01

3.48

15.06

100.97

A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

LAGOS

10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017

19-Apr-10

10.00

57.00

19-Apr-17

2.52

5.59

18.14

84.11

A-/Agusto

*BAYELSA

13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017

30-Jun-10

13.75

29.92

30-Jun-17

1.56

1.00

13.15

101.16

A/Agusto

EDO

14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017

30-Dec-10

14.00

25.00

31-Dec-17

3.22

1.79

14.38

98.98

A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

*DELTA

14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018

30-Sep-11

14.00

34.14

30-Sep-18

2.39

1.80

14.34

99.41

Daily Summary as of 13/10/2014

Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005

Business | Capital Market

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Daily Summary as of 13/10/2014 Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005

Daily Summary (Bonds)

No Debt Trading Activity

The Nigerian Stock Market Exchange as at October 13, 2014 Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Crop Production FTN COCOA PROCESSORS PLC OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC. Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals

Symbol FTNCOCOA OKOMUOIL PRESCO Symbol LIVESTOCK

AGRICULTURE Totals CONGLOMERATES Daily Summary as of 13/10/2014 Diversified Industries Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005 A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals

Current Price 0.50 33.00 37.10

No. of Deals 12 12

Current Price 2.93

53 Symbol AGLEVENT TRANSCORP UACN

Daily Summary

No. of Deals 8 219 56 283 (Equities)

CONGLOMERATES Totals

Current Price 1.33 5.50 57.75

283

Activity Summary on Board EQTY CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Published Building by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Structure/Completion/Other

No. of Deals 6 26 9 41

Quantity Traded 190,200 297,897 37,700 525,797

Value Traded 95,100.00 9,832,433.77 1,331,745.00 11,259,278.77

Quantity Traded 172,240 172,240

Value Traded 504,663.20 504,663.20

698,037

11,763,941.97

Quantity Traded 59,533 16,493,378 2,433,256 18,986,167

Value Traded 79,873.23 91,582,011.71 140,492,357.52 232,154,242.46

18,986,167

232,154,242.46

HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals Pharmaceuticals Totals

ICT Computer Based Systems COURTEVILLE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS PLC Computer Based Systems Totals Computers and Peripherals OMATEK VENTURES PLC Computers and Peripherals Totals IT Services NCR (NIGERIA) PLC. TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC. Daily Summary as of 13/10/2014 IT Services Totals

Current Price 0.86

Page Quantity Traded 489,356 489,356

1Value Traded of 12 421,285.04 421,285.04

Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. ROADS NIG PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals

Symbol JBERGER ROADS

No. of Deals 2 1 3

Current Price 67.20 6.29

Quantity Traded 300 266 566

Value Traded 19,152.00 1,755.60 20,907.60

Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 23 23

Current Price 14.50

Quantity Traded 165,102 165,102

Value Traded 2,389,559.58 2,389,559.58

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) UPDC REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Totals

Symbol UPDCREIT

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 8.68

Quantity Traded 10,000 10,000

Value Traded 90,000.00 90,000.00

665,024

2,921,752.22

Quantity Traded 1,500 1,500

Value Traded 750.00 750.00

Quantity Traded 137,669 170,572

Value Traded 2,065,935.24 30,931,578.25

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals

Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GUINNESS Activity SummaryNIG onPLC Board EQTY Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. PREMIER BREWERIES PLC Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Food Products DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NATIONAL SALT CO. NIG. PLC Daily Summary of 13/10/2014 U T Cas NIG. PLC. Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005 Food Products Totals Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals Household Durables

Activity Summary on Board EQTY NIGERIAN ENAMELWARE PLC. CONSUMER GOODS Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. Household Durables Totals

Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals

45 Symbol DUNLOP

FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Published byBanking The Nigerian TotalsStock Exchange © Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AIICO INSURANCE PLC. CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CORNERSTONE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC. MANSARD INSURANCE PLC MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. REGENCY ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC SOVEREIGN TRUST INSURANCE PLC Daily Summary as of 13/10/2014 STANDARD TRUST ASSURANCE PLC Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005 UNITY KAPITAL ASSURANCE PLC WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Totals Activity SummaryBanks on Board EQTY FINANCIAL SERVICES Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Published by The Stock © ASONigerian SAVINGS ANDExchange LOANS PLC

INFINITY TRUST MORTGAGE BANK PLC RESORT SAVINGS & LOANS PLC UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC. Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC DEAP CAPITAL MANAGEMENT & TRUST PLC FBN HOLDINGS PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UBA CAPITAL PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals

CHAMPION GUINNESS

16 59

15.73 182.00

Page

No. of Deals 24 177 9 285

Current Price 31.47 179.00 4.18

Quantity Traded 1,935,561 2,984,853 22,000 5,250,655

Value Traded 57,506,730.92 535,314,127.14 83,600.00 625,901,971.55

Symbol 7UP

No. of Deals 20 20

Current Price 147.73

Quantity Traded 22,459 22,459

Value Traded 3,483,615.49 3,483,615.49

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON UTC

No. of Deals 8 59 58 18 29 3 175

Current Price 6.55 8.00 62.00 3.95 9.10 0.50

Quantity Traded 9,800 882,706 380,758 191,100 521,683 1,450 1,987,497

Value Traded 61,054.00 7,082,847.29 23,631,897.36 749,728.00 4,659,922.73 725.00 36,186,174.38

No. of Deals 66 63 (Equities) 129

Current Price 54.00 1,022.00

Quantity Traded 211,971 75,180 287,151

Value Traded 11,443,598.35 76,928,427.57 88,372,025.92

No. of Deals 1

Current Price 32.27

Quantity Traded 1,000

Value Traded 30,660.00

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

Daily Summary Symbol ENAMELWA

Page

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC DANGOTE CEMENT PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals

Symbol INTBREW NB PREMBREW

Current Price 30.33 47.99

Quantity Traded 536,954 240,352 777,306

Value Traded 16,502,775.54 11,033,422.30 27,536,197.84

8,879,568

783,798,401.43

Value Traded 2,287,006.25 2,317,666.25

Value Traded 200,826,306.19 5,102,588.22 16,324,962.81 12,392,668.20 532,904,762.25 30,234,249.78 22,091,206.58 54,063,626.46 1,827,701.98

No. of Deals 11 2 11 15 10 15 8 2 1 1 1 79 156

Current Price 0.80 1.00 0.50 2.78 0.54 0.77 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.69

Quantity Traded 777,741 25,000 766,001 2,033,323 549,291 205,200 40,250 350 500 27,500 100 8,791,952 13,217,208

Value Traded 623,047.80 24,350.00 383,000.50 5,659,659.00 296,627.14 158,647.00 20,125.00 175.00 250.00 13,750.00 50.00 6,102,860.68 13,282,542.12

Value Traded 4,761,415.00 4,845,472.83 329,882,793.56 4 of 12 1,215,257,753.86

Quantity Traded 411,231 411,231

Value Traded 395,081.45 395,081.45 Value Traded 5 of50.00 12

NPFMCRFBK

14 14

0.98

Symbol ASOSAVINGS INFINITY RESORTSAL UNHOMES

No. of Deals 1 2 1 1 5

Current Price 0.50 1.52 0.50 0.50

Quantity Traded Page 100

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS DEAPCAP FBNH FCMB ROYALEX STANBIC UBCAP

No. of Deals 63 14 1 466 32 8 50 103 737

Current Price 3.25 4.00 0.83 12.61 4.20 0.57 32.38 2.00

Quantity Traded 1,052,988 1,079,271 50,000 10,023,402 1,133,607 407,800 1,915,563 1,786,623 17,449,254

Value Traded 3,410,693.30 4,302,945.92 41,500.00 127,682,993.02 4,699,821.32 232,446.00 61,995,863.83 3,606,871.96 205,973,135.35

138,772,558

1,435,251,117.78

Quantity Traded 458,500 51,983 982,912 165,360

Value Traded 1,595,654.72 3,070,547.37 1,718,046.00 170,320.80

Page

Quantity Traded 500 500

Value Traded 250.00 250.00

Symbol NCR TRIPPLEG

No. of Deals 2 1 3

Current Price 13.50 1.86

Quantity Traded 4,826 24 4,850

Value Traded 61,917.58 42.48 61,960.06

Symbol CHAMS

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 1,005,000 1,005,000

Value Traded 502,500.00 502,500.00

1,147,350

638,690.06

Daily Summary (Equities)

Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP

No. of Deals 33 14 25

Daily Summary (Equities)

Current Price 32.00 8.60 39.00

Quantity Traded 243,716 Page 44,957 61,774

Value Traded 7,798,039.90 of 12 386,715.29 2,406,908.80

Symbol CUTIX NIWICABLE

No. of Deals 8 2 10

Current Price 1.89 0.50

Quantity Traded 90,550 3,300 93,850

Value Traded 177,209.00 1,650.00 178,859.00

Packaging/Containers BETA GLASS CO PLC. Packaging/Containers Totals

Symbol BETAGLAS

No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 20.00

Quantity Traded 2,025 2,025

Value Traded 39,975.00 39,975.00

1,634,924

94,757,301.19

Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Exploration and Production Totals

175 Symbol JAPAULOIL

No. of Deals 17 17

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 1,571,620 Page 1,571,620

Symbol

No. of Deals 299 299

Current Price 25.00

Quantity Traded 5,289,140 5,289,140

Value Traded 132,223,280.71 132,223,280.71

Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS TOTAL

No. of Deals 30 34 55 26 2 16 163

Current Price 51.82 3.75 215.00 174.00 56.00 175.50

Quantity Traded 49,706 613,480 71,327 44,255 946 3,374 783,088

Value Traded 2,495,695.11 2,319,019.74 15,312,630.82 7,695,228.49 50,327.20 597,742.80 28,470,644.16

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 16 16

Current Price 607.53

Quantity Traded 65,243 65,243

Value Traded 39,718,498.00 39,718,498.00

7,709,091

201,198,232.87

OANDO Daily Summary (Equities)

Page

495

Value Traded 785,810.00 of 12 785,810.00

Symbol RTBRISCOE

No. of Deals 8 8

Current Price 0.87

Quantity Traded 160,996 160,996

Value Traded 138,954.82 138,954.82

Symbol REDSTAREX

No. of Deals 3 1 4

Current Price 4.40 1.35

Quantity Traded 14,000 30,000 44,000

Value Traded 60,780.00 42,300.00 103,080.00

Daily Summary (Equities) TRANSEXPR

Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded Page 20,000 20,000

Hotels/Lodging IKEJA HOTEL PLC Hotels/Lodging Totals

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL

No. of Deals 48 48

Current Price 2.92

Quantity Traded 10,425,735 10,425,735

Value Traded 30,428,846.20 30,428,846.20

Media/Entertainment DAAR COMMUNICATIONS PLC Media/Entertainment Totals

Symbol DAARCOMM

No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 25,000 25,000

Value Traded 12,500.00 12,500.00

Printing/Publishing ACADEMY PRESS PLC. LEARN AFRICA PLC STUDIO PRESS (NIG) PLC. UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC. Printing/Publishing Totals

Symbol ACADEMY LEARNAFRCA STUDPRESS UPL

No. of Deals 2 5 1 3 11

Current Price 1.32 1.44 2.30 4.14

Quantity Traded 10,000 40,700 70,950 3,365 125,015

Value Traded 13,800.00 57,293.00 163,185.00 13,432.10 247,710.10

Symbol ABCTRANS

No. of Deals 7 7

Current Price 0.68

Quantity Traded 353,500 353,500

Value Traded 240,080.00 240,080.00

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Daily Summary (Equities)

Quantity Traded 133,918 128,109

Value Traded 258,144.18 659,389.54

Daily Summary as of 13/10/2014 Road Transportation Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005 ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC

Road Transportation Totals

Transport-Related Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

33,180.00 300,000.00 9,375.00 342,605.00

Current Price 0.50

Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. NIGERIAN WIRE AND CABLE PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals

Symbol AIICO CONTINSURE CORNERST MANSARD MBENEFIT NEM NIGERINS REGALINS SOVRENINS STACO UNITYKAP WAPIC

Current Price 3.50 61.00 1.75 1.03

No. of Deals 1 1

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Quantity Traded 9,522,830 5,317,313 14,494,628 Page 107,054,015

No. of Deals 19 12 31 6

Symbol OMATEK

Value Traded 2,980,908.57 9,135,477.80 2,094,615.00 69,735,801.83 94,538,467.19

Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals

Current Price 0.50 0.91 22.50

Symbol FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH

Value Traded 73,980.00 73,980.00

Quantity Traded 198,371 42,475 400,500 547,256 1,539,049

SERVICES Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Daily Summary as of 13/10/2014 R T BRISCOE PLC. Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005 Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals

No. of Deals 25 52 295 1,574

2,486

Quantity Traded 137,000 137,000

OIL AND GAS Totals

Symbol UNITYBNK WEMABANK ZENITHBANK

22,000 600,000 18,750 640,850

Current Price 0.52

Current Price 15.04 215.11 5.23 127.98

OIL AND GAS Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals

No. of Deals 49 52 101

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol No. of Deals Current Price

No. of Deals 8 8

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

Quantity Traded 23,094,583 833,983 866,607 6,314,993 17,865,819 10,662,938 9,185,014 8,692,808 202,499

6,554,568.89

Quantity Traded 552,000 553,000

Current Price 8.71 6.12 18.78 1.96 29.50 2.87 2.40 6.18 9.01

1,658,755

No. of Deals 24 19 7 39 161

Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals

Current Price 4.29

Symbol No. of Deals ACCESS 180 DIAMONDBNK 30 ETI 95 FIDELITYBK 104 GUARANTY 332 SKYEBANK 149 STERLNBANK 66 Daily Summary (Equities) UBA 200 UBN 46

Value Traded 6,554,568.89

Symbol CCNN DANGCEM PORTPAINT WAPCO

OIL AND GAS Daily Summary as Equipment of 13/10/2014 Energy and Services Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005 JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Energy Equipment and Services Totals

No. of Deals 22 23

736

Quantity Traded 1,658,755

Symbol COURTVILLE

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals

Symbol VITAFOAM

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC

Current Price 0.50

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol No. of Deals Current Price

CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED Daily Summary as of 13/10/2014 Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005 FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC UNION BANK NIG.PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY

No. of Deals 3 3

Processing Systems CHAMS PLC Processing Systems Totals Daily Summary as of 13/10/2014 Totals 14:49:05.005 PrintedICT 13/10/2014 Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Current Price

Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005

No. of Deals 18 18

Daily Summary as ofGOODS 13/10/2014 CONSUMER Printed 13/10/2014 14:49:05.005 Automobiles/Auto Parts DN TYRE & RUBBER PLC Automobiles/Auto Parts Totals

No. of Deals 68

HEALTHCARE Totals

Symbol COSTAIN

COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals

Symbol

AIRSERVICE NAHCO

11 21

2.01 5.15

10ValueofTraded12 10,000.00 10,000.00

Page Quantity Traded 262,027

11 of 12 Value Traded 917,533.72

Quantity Traded 136,206 136,206

Value Traded 626,706.30 626,706.30

128

11,552,479

32,725,411.14

EQTY Board Totals

4,483

191,703,953

2,801,763,660.01

Equity Activity Totals

4,483

191,703,953

2,801,763,660.01

Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC Support and Logistics Totals

Symbol

No. of Deals 32

Current Price

Symbol CAVERTON

No. of Deals 12 12

Current Price 4.84

SERVICES Totals

Daily Summary (ETP) Exchange Traded Fund

Name NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

Symbol NEWGOLD VETGRIF30

No. of Deals 1 3 4

Current Price 1,950.00 18.29

Quantity Traded 7 1,608 1,615

Value Traded 13,650.00 29,807.52 43,457.52

ETF Board Totals

1,615

43,457.52

ETP Activity Totals

1,615

43,457.52

Page

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

Features Rape, like an octopus, is spreading its tentacles across the Nigerian society, writes CAMILLUS NNAJI

n recent times newspapers and electronic media are, on a daily basis, awash with stories of rape of helpless women, married and unmarried, girls and minors. Those who violate the women and young girls, in most cases, are relatives and those who the victims respect and trust. The stories range from randy pastors preying on female church attendants to police officers sexually assaulting female detainees and adults molesting minors. The pervasiveness of this moral decadence has put a lot of pressure on the courts. In one of published works, Dennis Stevens sees rape as an “act of using power, manipulation or force to intimidate, humiliate, exploit, degrade or control another”. Rape has been used as a weapon in war, in racial violence and in everyday life. Rape diminishes a person’s dignity and the person’s human rights to safety, choice and consent. This takes into account the fact that people may feel as if they have been raped in circumstances that are not legally defined as constituting rape. Rape may not involve actual physical injury. It is an act that may be experienced as a violation of the physical body, and/or on emotional, intellectual, and spiritual levels. The prevalence of this crime is shockingly reprehensible. A mother of three was raped recently at Otodo Gbame community in Eti Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State by a group of seven men. The housewife was thereafter divorced by her husband because, according to him, his culture abhors continuation of such marriage. In Mowe, Ogun State, the case of a 14-year-old girl was raped by a 47-yearold man who compensated her parents with N40,000. Also, a 42-year-old man, identified simply as Egi, defiled a 10-year-old JSS3 pupil in her father’s house. Rape has also degenerated to indescribable sexual perversion, as children are sexually assaulting their mothers while fathers too are defiling their daughters. Last month in Ekiti State, 21-yearold Akintunde Omotehinde reportedly molested his 60-year-old mother at Ajebamidele area of Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. On March 6, a 42-year-old father, Pedro Anegbe, residing at Ifelodun Street, Fatolu, Ipaja, Lagos State, told an Ebute Meta Magistrates’ Court that a spirit asked him to rape his 15-year-old daughter to get a job. Schools are also not left out of the ugly development. Teachers, students, security guards, etc, also indulge in the act.

ABIODUN BELLO FEATURES Editor

abiodun. bello@newtelegraphonline.com

Rape: Rising evil against women, minors

At a private school in Ijegun, Lagos, a 30-year-old security guard, Emeka Nwabunwane, lured an 18-year old student (name withheld) to a and raped her. The victim went to the school to attend a tutorial class in preparation for her Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)-conducted examination. Also, a 13-year-old girl (name withheld) fell victim of rape to two men in Mosan area of Lagos. According to the victim, the rapists were able to perpetrate their criminal act because her mother sent her on an errand to the men’s house late in the night. Campaign Against Molestation of Young Women (CAMYM) staged a protest at the Alimosho Local Government area recently because of the growing trend of rape. The Non-Government Organisation (NGO) called on the Ministry of Women Affairs at all levels of government to take a drastic action on the rising crime against under-aged girls and women. The Lagos State Director of CAMYM, Mrs Sarah Iniose, said that the record of rape cases in Nigeria had reached an alarming rate. According to her, a good number of the victims die prematurely because of humiliation and infections. Iniose, however, blamed government for not imposing a capital punishment on whoever is found guilty of rape. In most rape cases, women are often blamed for being victims; the onus of proof is often put on them. Although, many women are victims of rape, rape still remains under-reported. Part of the reason for this includes the non-recognition of “date rape” which leaves an assumption that you can only be raped by a stranger, if raped by an acquaintance, there is a presumption

A good number of the victims die prematurely because of humiliation and infections

that the woman asked for it. Even in cases where rape is recognised, corroboration is required, and the disclosure of the victim’s history is required. All these factors make conviction of rape hard for the petitioner, and she is psychologically victimised by the legal procedures. Rape is a great insult against womanhood. According to observers, the nation’s criminal law should not only frown at it but should also make it a serious offense in whatever form and circumstance it occurs. In order to address this situation, Bishop Oscar Ossai, a Pentecostal Bishop of City of Refuge Ministry, Lagos, advocated the training of social psychologists. He said: “If we have this statistics of rise in sexual crime like rape, then there is need to conduct a research on why the rise, could it be no jobs, or no relaxation and social centres for self-expression. Then social scientists are to be trained for this. “It is saddening that when there is increase crime in the country, the only thing the government would do is to increase support to the police by providing more vehicles and guns. There are no other ways of seeking to understand the reasons behind the crimes committed; could it be failure of the church, state or the family system? “The concept of prison is not only to punish but also to correct, let us do a forensic analysis into the causatives of rampant rape cases. “The National Orientation Agency (NOA) should do its job by providing more information on sexual orientation C O N T I N U E D on PA G E 4 6

FEATURES

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Society and the moral burden of rape

Akinwunmi, alleged raped by a DPO in police cell

A student of Ibarapa Polytechnic, Eruwa, Oyo State raped by a soldier

Daramola-Salako

Ossai

C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 4 5

Parents, especially mothers, also have very tasking role to play by being sensitive to their environment, educating and enlightening their female children on this trend

to the public.” According to Mr Remigius Obetta, Managing Director of HI REM Development Services in charge of training of young people and their development, two types of rape exist - pronounced and unpronounced cases. He said: “The first case of rape exists even among married people whereby the husband forces his way through to have sex with the wife irrespective of the wife’s willingness and state of health. Men assume they have express right to have their way and peradventure the woman in any case refuses, she is beaten or denied certain benefits. “Because these incidents are not reported, they are unpronounced rape cases.” Obetta added that men should change their orientation to their wives, by seeing it as abnormal. In the pronounced aspect of rape, the rapist forces himself or herself on the opposite sex for sexual satisfaction without the willingness, consent and approval of the victim. This is done mostly with physical force; some do it pointing gun at the

victim, he added. On why the law does not pronounce harsh sentences, Obetta said that the law did not operate based on sentiments. He said: “We have to consider the existing penalties because we refer to provision of law; may be the law has become obsolete and requires a review. If the modern trend has witnessed more rapes than the past, then the law should be made to address it properly with proportional sentences.” Obetta advocated the need for professionally trained people to handle the cases of rape, because in the past instead of helping the victim, parents, relatives and teachers rather escalate humiliation, stigmatisation and emotional trauma. According to him, if professional institutions are put in place to handle these cases, they will achieve more positive results. He said: “It is a traumatic situation emotionally and socially to the victim because she does not have a place in confidence to go. If there is a place to go and disclose her ordeals, then she would be counselled to regain her personality and dignity.”

In her own views, a Lagosbased feminist, Ogechi Ekeanyanwu, advocated fast trial for rapists. Ekeanyanwu said rapists must be punished, adding that the insistence of the police and judiciary that rape victims should produce evidence should be stopped. “If a rape victim reports, she must be treated with dignity. A situation whereby rape victims are blamed for whatever reason must be stopped and rapists must be punished expediently. Stricter laws should be put in place to discourage rape in Nigeria.” Nollywood actress and founder of Action Against Rape in Africa (ARA), Foluke Daramola-Salako, shared her ordeal as a rape victim and the experience of other rape victims which affected her marital life. Daramola-Salako, according to gistplaza.com, said being deflowered by a rapist and sharing her experience as a celebrity through her foundation would help a lot of people out there. She said: “I recently went for a symposium on gender issues and

I shared my story with a lot of people. At the end of the programme, there were two parents whose daughters had gone through such at the hands of relatives.” While there is a very urgent need for all to rise to the challenge of curbing sexual crimes in the country, law enforcement agencies must change their attitude towards this deadly crime. Policing and responding to sexual crimes require a high level of sensitivity and specialised skills in investigating and prosecuting offenders to ensure that cases of rape are treated with urgency. Parents, especially mothers, also have very tasking role to play by being sensitive to their environment, educating and enlightening their female children on this trend as well as exposing them to how to detect predators and avoid them. This is because of the fact that some of the rape cases involving minors are carried out by family members. It is unfortunate that some fathers, mostly those separated from their wives and having custody of the children, are also guilty of this inhuman crime.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014

News 47

SOUTH-SOUTH

Dickson warns against underhand politicking Chris Ejim Yenagoa

ayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson has advocated consensus building, equitable distribution of political offices and regular consultation with stakeholders as well as the people as the factors that can stabilise the polity in the State. The governor expressed the view at a consultative meeting with leaders, chiefs and the people of Bayelsa Central and West Senatorial Districts at Government House in Yenagoa. He used the forum to perform the formal inauguration of the expanded Restoration caucuses for the two Senatorial Districts of the Peoples Democratic Party, also mandated the leaderships of the caucuses to bring all stakeholders on board and work collectively for the progress of the party at all levels. Governor Dickson advised the political class to eschew the idea of dropping names as he stated that it is not in line with democratic norms, pointing out that the rules of democracy does not not give room for names dropping, but consultation. He also stated that, the 2015 general elections are around the corner, advising those eyeing political offices to consult, as that will determine whether their candidacy will be accepted by the people or not.

L-R: Governor Adams Oshiomhole; Chairman, Ikpboba Okha Local Government, Mr. Osawaru Ekhator; Mr. Onaiwu Igbogbo and APC leader, Ikpoba Okha, Hon. Osarodion Ogie, during the defection of members of the PDP in Benin City…yesterday.

Erediauwa condemns political violence Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

he Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba, N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Erediauwa, yesterday cautioned politicians in the country against thuggery and violence as activities of the 2015 general elections gather momentum. Oba Erediauwa in a statement through the traditional Prime Minister of Benin Kingdom, Chief Sam Igbe, the Iyase of Benin, yesterday said the recent violent attacks on opponents in the country called for caution on the part of politicians. The Benin monarch said violence is an ill wind that does no one any good.

This position was expressed even as Governor Adams Oshiomhole, warned trouble makers in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to eschew their violent approach against the APC and his administration who he claimed are agents of peace saying, his administration would not be cowed by the mischief being posed to his government development of the state and harmonious existence among the people. Oshiomhole, who stated this when he received over four thousand defectors from the PDP into the APC during a grand rally held in Ikpoba Okha council area said to amount of detraction will stop the current wind of change blowing

across the state. According to the Oba, politicial leaders are supposed to show good examples for the followership to emulate, rather than recruit them as thugs. While calling on politicians to refrain from politics of bitterness, Omo N Oba directed the Enigie, Igieohen and Edionwere in Benin Kingdom to pray for the country’s peaceful coexistence and also to move to their various dukedoms to sensitize political aspirants, political parties and their supporters in their areas of the need to live in peace and harmpony. He said politicians should be mindful of the fact that only the living can play politics and not the dead. Meanwhile the Edo

State All Progressives Congress (APC) made a fruitful harvest yesterday as over 4,000 former members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) defected to the ruling party at a rally held in Ikhobha-Okha local government council of the state. The sate governor, Adams Oshiomhole pledged that the leadership of the party would not impose any candidate on the party but that rather they would al emerge through transparent and credible primaries. Led by a former Secretary to the Local government and former secretary of the PDP in the area, Onaiwu Ugbogbo and eight ward chairmen of the PDP and over 300 members of the execu-

tive committee and their numerous supporters, the defectors said they have been deceived for long and “the time has come for a change that will benefit all of us and the change and comfort we have found in the APC” adding that the state government came to their rescue when their areas were ravaged by erosion. Receiving the defectors, Oshiomhole said no leader includi9ng himself would impose any candidate in the primary that is expected to be keenly contested across the state. “Whoever you choose, we will support the persons and ensure victory for the party. I want to assure you that it will be one man, one vote”.

Ijaw group accuses Jonathan of neglect Akwa Ibom SSG hails ex-minister Cajetan Mmuta Benin

he Izon-Ibe Global Policy Network (IGPN), a non-government organization based in Benin City, Edo State yesterday urged the electorate in the South/South geopolitical zone to vote out the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in the 2015 Presidential election come 2015, over alleged negligence of the region by the ruling party. Members of the body in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin City through its spokesperson, Ayubalayefa Olu Dennis, lamented the spate of poverty, deprivation, unemployment and total infrastructural rot in the oil rich region. The group’s statement reads in part, “voting out President Goodluck led PDP is the only way

out of the region’s predicaments”. The IGPN alleged that the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs failed in its responsibility to implement the amnesty program of the federal government meant to improve lives of the people of the region, stating that the ministry to live up to its mandate of bringing development to the region in spite of the its huge resources it was entrusted with, while the people continue to wallow in poverty despite the enormous petroleum deposit in the area. Ayubalayefa Olu said in the statement, “It is shocking that in spite of promises to bring development to the South /South, the region has continue to retrogress in a manner never witnessed. The so called transformation agenda this administration is

embarking on has not affected the people of the South region”. He noted that “The East-West road has been lingering on for donkey years. In spite of the fact that we have our brother at the helms of affairs in the ministry of Niger Delta with billions of naira allocated to the East West road, the project is still far from completion and there is nothing to show for it”. The group maintained further that, “This administration has not been able to manage or improve on the Amnesty programme and it has failed to address the salient issue why the amnesty was granted to Niger Delta ex-agitators. We have resolved that the PDP administration cannot address the critical issue affecting our people as a result, we are mobilizing to vote them out come 2015”.

ecretary to the Akwa Ibom State government, Mr udom Emmanuel has charged the people of Eket senatorial district to consistently follow leaders like Chief Essien Ndueso, who stands for the truth and the collective interest of the people not minding pressure from the political class. Emmanuel, also praised the people for the honour bestowed on Essien, for the quality

of representation he has given to his people at the National Assembly and the just concluded Confab. Udom, who spoke at the civic reception organized by the people of Ekid for Essien, noted, “We honour a man who has represented us well. We are here to say thank you for the work well done, to give him a pat on the back. adding, “ Obong of Calabar has also sent a strong representation to honour our son.”

Udom commended the efforts of the ex-minister at the national confab saying, “The people of the state were proud to be associated with him”, adding, ‘’He resisted a lot of pressure, stood his grounds and gave Akwa Ibom State an excellent representation. His actions have revealed that he possesses the good qualities of a leader and that he is a worthy ambassador of Akwa Ibom State”.

Delta 2015: Elumelu promises welfare package

hairman, House of Representatives Committee on Health, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, has promised to prioritise the welfare of the people of Delta State if given the opportunity to lead the state. Declaring his intention during a special service to commit his ambition into the hands of God at St. Michael’s Catholic Church,

Onicha-Uku in AniochaNorth Local Government Area of Delta State Elumelu said he would ensure better standard of living for the people of the state. Elumelu also donated 10 vehicles and 30 tricycles for distribution to people in the three senatorial districts of the state as part of his empowerment programme. The

donation was made under his non-governmental organisation, Ndudi Elumelu Foundation. Speaking to members of the foundation, Elumelu thanked them for their steadfastness and promised more incentives for the coordinators to facilitate the task of mobilising the electorate towards supporting him in the 2015 elections.

News

tuesday, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

north

Govt not about sharing money, says Aliyu Dan Atori MINNA

iger State governor, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, yesterday said that public funds should be used for the provision of infrastructure for the people and should not be shared to the people. Governor Aliyu, who spoke at the unveiling of Reverend Father Jeremiah O’Connel Educational Foundation and book presentation at the Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre, Minna yesterday said the ‘stomach infrastructure politics’ being propounded by some politicians will not facilitate development in the country, insisting that government should not be about sharing money. According to him; “Government is not about sharing money to the people, government is and should be about proving the needs of the people through the provision of basic infrastructure.” “It is in line with this policy that this administration had, over the last seven and half years, embarked on massive investment in the development of education at all levels through the construction of roads and the provision of health facilities that has been beneficial to the people.

Ortom pledges foreign investment

L-R: Chairman/Managing Director, Kam Industries, Alhaji Kamaldeen Yusuf; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga; Managing Director/CEO, Bank of Industry (BoI), Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa; Executive Director, Small and Medium Enterprises, Mr Waheed Olagunju and General Manager Large Enterprises, Mr Babatunde Joseph, at the inauguration of Kam Cold Steel Mill in Ilorin, Kwara State

Plateau records 5,000 new mental cases Buhari Bello Jos

ead of the Psychiatric Department of the Jos University Teaching (JUTH), Dr. Taiwo Obindo, has said that over five thousand new cases of mental health challenge have been recorded in Plateau State in the last one year. Taiwo made this

flight

First come, first served. That is the rule for Nigerian pilgrims

Cephas Iorhemen Makurdi

inister of State, Industry, Trade and Investment and governorship aspirant in Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, has pledged to woo foreign investors to the state to boost tourism and the development of the state if elected. He also reiterated his determination to create sustained synergy with and integrate traditional rulers into policies of his administration so as to utilise them as agents of positive change. Ortom made the pledge during separate meetings with members of the Peoples Democratic Party from the Apa/ Agatu and Otukpo/Ohimini federal constituencies held at Ugbokpo and Otukpo, when he moved his campaign train to the area to solicit their support to win the party’s primaries.

Ibrahim Abdul Saudi Arabia

he National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) yesterday denied that some Nigerian pilgrims, particularly those from Adamawa State now in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, are currently stranded just as some stakeholders called for a review of the return flight schedule of Nigerian pilgrims. Some pilgrims from Adamawa State had earlier expressed worry over their departure date after the commencement of airlifting. However, spokesman of the commission, Uba Mana, denied that Adamawa pilgrims were abandoned as alleged, saying that; “The first batch of Nigerian pilgrims to this year’s Hajj have since arrived in Nigeria. As I am talking

disclosure while presenting a paper in celebration of the World Mental Health Day. The celebration, which was organised by the Jos University Teaching Hospital Psychiatric Department in collaboration with the Nigeria Medical Association with the theme: Living with Schizophrenia, was held in Gindiri, Mangu Local Government of the state.

He said: “In the last one year, there are over 5, 000 new cases of mental health in Jos, which is very high, especially when you consider the fact that the facility we have is not even enough. “Schizophrenia is one of the mental disorders, a condition in psychiatry, where the individual has problems with his thinking, the way he interacts with people and that

tends to affects him in his functioning. “The way the person thinks and the beliefs he has is awkward,” he maintained. Obindo further explained that one with schizophrenia tends to hear voices and see things, which other persons don’t. “We have people that are vulnerable that need our attention and help. It is possible for some-

one with schizophrenia to function well.” Taiwo noted that lecturers, doctors, nurses and every strata of the society have cases of schizophrenia. “This year, we chose schizophrenia, because it is one of the major mental illnesses that we treat and treatment tends to be prolonged, because people with the illness tend to be ill for a longtime,” he added.

Abuja indigenes tackle Hajj: NAHCO reacts over Adamawa’s stranded pilgrims pro-Mohammed group to you now, Adamawa pilgrims have spent only two weeks.” He noted that the principle of ‘first to come, first to go’ would be applied for all pilgrims irrespective of their status. “You will go as you come, to where you were picked from, irrespective of status. We will be fair to all our pilgrims,” he said. Continuing, Mana said pilgrims from Lagos and Jigawa States are the beneficiaries of the return flights to Nigeria, following the completion of Hajj rites on Friday” even as he was emphatic that no pilgrim will be left stranded in the holy land. He added that proper arrangements had been made with concerned airlines, while also adding that a stand-by arrangement had been made in case of failure by the contracted airlines. The spokesman said the Directorate of Pilgrims Affairs (DPA) Technical Committee on Hajj did its best in obtaining visa, passports and ac-

commodation for the pilgrims. Also reacting on the delay being experienced by Nigerian pilgrims after the completion of hajj rites, a renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Nasir AbdulMuhyi Jos, lamented that pilgrims are subjected to unnecessary difficulties. He therefore called on NAHCO to review its return flight schedule to ease the difficulties, saying that; “Even, His Eminence, the Sultan, had once suggested that the usual 40 days stay being observed by pilgrims be reviewed. He suggested that the way to solve the problem was to engage established airlines like the Saudi Airline, noting that when that happens, the Nigerian government would not need to intervene. AbdulMuhyi commended Nigerian pilgrims for exhibiting good behaviour at this year’s hajj, calling for clear-cut policies that will sanitise hajj operations in the country.

Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

political group, the Original Inhabitants Development Association of Abuja (OIDA) has asked those it described as loyalists of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed, to stop playing politics with the constitutional and socio-economic de-

mands of Abuja natives. The umbrella-body of FCT original inhabitants stated this yesterday while reacting to recent media publications and broadcast by those it described as ‘some unknown groups, who are calling on the minister not to leave FCT to pursue his political ambitions in Bauchi state, due to ‘his alleged positive impact on Abuja natives.’

Suswam inaugurates committee on LCDAs Cephas Iorhemen Makurdi

enue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam, has inaugurated an eightman committee for the creation of 12 new Local Government Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state with a charge to them not to use the assignment to score political points. The governor also inaugurated two special advisers to fill the vacuum

created by the exit of two others who have relinquished their positions to contest elections next year. Performing the ceremony at Government House yesterday, the governor noted that the recommendations of the committee would be given accelerated attention, because his “administration is poised to transforms the rural areas for enhanced development before he exited from office next year.”

News 49

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY OCTOBER 14, 2014

Strike: Education Ministry, union leaders to meet Labour Minister Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

he industrial action embarked upon by senior staff of Federal Ministry of Education yesterday entered the third week with official activities at the Federal Secretariat office of the Ministry still paralyzed. Few staff of the Ministry, who were around and spoke to New Telegraph under the condition of anonymity, said they were doing skeletal work.

L-R: Niger State Deputy Governor, Ahmed Musa Ibeto; Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, Mr. Sean Hoy and Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, during the unveiling of Father Jeremiah O’Connel Educational Foundation in Niger State…yesterday

Crisis brews in Enugu over PDP meeting Uwakwe Abugu Enugu

risis is brewing in Enugu State over unresolved matters relating to the 2015 general elections as the state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Vita Abba, has petitioned the state Commissioner of Police, Adamu Mohammed, urging him to stop a meeting called today (October 14) by Mr. Ugulu O. Ugulu, an ally of the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu.

Abba sad the move was to avert a breakdown of law and order in the state. The aim of the meeting was not known yet as at yesterday but loyalists of Governor Sullivan Chime would be wary of such a meeting called by Ugulu, a former state Publicity Secretary of the party now known to be an ally of Ekweremadu, who is daily at daggers drawn with the governor over the West senatorial ticket of the party. The senator has not publicly made his views known on the emergence of a consensus governorship candidate of PDP for the next year’s

Glo tops Ghana’s soaring mobile data subscription Segun Edwards

igures released by Ghana’s National Communication Authority shows a fast growing subscriber base of Mobile Data in the country with Nigeriaheadquatered Globacom leading the list of highest gaining telecommunication companies. The statistics of the Mobile Data Market Trends, which are for the month of August, showed that Gha-

na’s total subscriber base upped to 14,615,048 with Glo leading the line with 86,227 new subscriptions, followed by Tigo with 56,248, MTN with 53,325 and Airtel with 36,897. Vodafone Ghana, however suffered a significant decline losing a whooping 387,600 subscribers. Also recording dwindling clients was Expresso who lost 1,123 subscribers, thus ending August with a customer base of 36,135.

‘Ugwuanyi’s endorsement, a dream come true’ Okegwo Kenechukwu Onitsha

ormer deputy chairman of the people’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Mr. Daniel Sunday Ugwu has described the emergence of Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as the governorship flag bearer of the party in the state as endorsed DP as a divine will expressed by the people of Enugu State. Ugwu, who spoke at Enugu State indigenous

political forum in Awka Anambra State capital, stated that zoning formular in the PDP constitution was practically a demonstration of the dynamic and visionary leadership of the party in Enugu State under governor Sullivan Chime. He described Ugwuanyi as pragmatic politician and a patriotic philanthropist who has exhibited a high level of political will to continue the quality leadership of Governor Sullivan Chime in the State.

election in the state. Alleging both acts of insubordination and impersonation against Ugulu for calling a meeting of the PDP in the state when he holds no position in the current state executive committee of the party Abba called on the police boss to use his good offices to stop the meeting, which he said was unauthorized. The apparently worried party chairman in a letter to the police commissioner yesterday said, “I write to bring to your notice the acts of insubordination and impersonation being perpetuated against our great party,

the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) by one Mr. Ugulu O. Ugulu, following an illegal radio announcement he signed on behalf of the party, inviting present and former members of our State Party Executives to a meeting tomorrow, October 14, 2014 at Brifina Hotel, Enugu at 10am. “Sir, may I state clearly that this act of illegality contravenes the Constitution of our Party as the said Mr. Ugulu O. Ugulu, who made the said announcement is not an officer of the party in the state and thereby has no powers to summon such meeting.

“Consequently, I write to inform you that the said announcement is illegal and the meeting being summoned therein does not have the approval of the state leadership of the party and therefore, should not be allowed to take place”, said Abba. He also called for the arrest of Ugulu, saying; “We further implore you to use your good offices to stop the meeting and cause an arrest on Mr. Ugulu O. Ugulu for impersonation and engagement in an illegal act capable of breaching the existing peace and orderliness in the state”.

Group urges Abians to elect people of integrity Peter Osondu Aba

s the 2015 general elections draw near, a political pressure group, the Old Bende/Ukwa Ngwa Coalition Movement (OBUNCM) has urged the people of Abia state to ensure they elect someone who would steer the affairs of the state better than the present situation in the state saying the people choice should not be based on party’s affiliation. OBUNCM said its appeal has become necessary to checkmate the incident the people’s choice of governorship candidate was based on party affinity.

Newman Street premieres in Lagos Dangote sues Zambian ing Tv programme is for minister over bribe claim Tony Okuyeme everyone and it will help

ewman Street, an innovative television drama that addresses key health concerns facing all Nigerians, like malaria and family planning, will premiere this week at the Silverbird Galleria, Victoria Island, Lagos. Featuring well known faces on Nollywood and aspiring artistes, the characters in Newman Street are captivating. A statement by the promoters of the drama yesterday said: ““This engag-

lift people’s spirit and provide correecrt information they need to be able to make the best life decisions for themselves and their families as they deal with everyday issues.” According to them, Newman Street will debut on television on Sunday October 19, at 8.30pm on the entertainment channel 105 of the NTA Startimes bouquet. A repeat will be broadcast on Friday at 8pm.

Wisconsin University to honour Onwueme

he University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire in the United States will, on Saturday October 18, 2014, host the celebration of Archival Collection in honour of Professor Tess Onwueme, eminent Professor of Global Letters. In a statement by the Office of the Chancellor of the university, the event is in recognition of “her exceptional achievements and contributions to World Literature/ Drama, the University of Wisconsin system, the

Africana, and the world at large. “To mark this historic event, international scholars, writers and speakers are expected to dialogue and participate in the celebration of the remarkable Archival Collection of the literary icon now being acquired by the University of Wisconsin, in addition to showcasing a production from Onwueme’s award-winning plays during the event.

angote Industries Zambia is suing the country’s Labour Minister, Fackson Shamenda, for defamation after he claimed that a senior company official tried to bribe him, court documents showed yesterday. The subsidiary of Nigeria’s Dangote Group — owned by Aliko Dangote, who is ranked by Forbes magazine as the richest man in Africa — is claiming unspecified damages

for slander and libel as well as special damages in the sum of 112,042.84 kwacha ($17,728), according to documents filed in the High Court. On September 15, the Post Newspaper in Zambia carried a story under the headline “Dangote offers Shamenda a bribe” in which the minister claimed that a Nigerian human resources manager from the company offered him a bribe which he rejected.

Tayo Apata dies at 83

he former Trustee and Executive Secretary of the defunct Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) and a one-time Commissioner for Education in old Bendel State, Chief Tayo Akpata, has died at the age 83. He passed on peacefully at his Ikoyi, Lagos residence yesterday around 10am. A statement by the family confirmed the passing on of the elder statesman and astute administrator who was the ‘Ima of Benin’. Burial arrangements,

according to the statement, will be announced in due course. He is survived by his wife, Chief (Mrs) Olabisi Akpata, nee Ayorinde; children and grandchildren. Apata was an alumnus of Edo College, Benin and University of Hull, United Kingdom, Chief Akpata served as the Deputy Registrar of the University of Ibadan, Oyo State. He was a Director of Bendel Feeds and Flower Mills (BFFM) and Chairman of I.B.M (Nigeria) Ltd.

WORLD | News

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Top Kenyan academic, Ali Mazrui, dies in US

enowned Kenyan academic Ali Mazrui has died in the US aged 81 after being ill for several months. Kenya’s President, Uhuru Kenyatta said Africa had been robbed of one of its greatest scholars. Mazrui had been “towering” academic whose “intel-

lectual contributions played a major role in shaping African scholarship”, he added. He had been a professor at Binghamton University in New York at the time of his death. His body will be flown to Kenya for burial, said Khelef Khalifa, chairman of Kenya’s Muslims for Human Rights group. “His nephew, Alamin

Mazrui, has confirmed that the professor’s wish was to be buried in Kenya,” he is quoted by the local Daily Nation newspaper as saying. Mazrui was a leading panAfricanist whose academic research focused on African politics, north-south relations and political Islam. He had authored numerous

books, including The Africans: A Triple Heritage and Christianity and Islam in Africa’s Political Experience: Piety, Passion and Power. In 2005, the US journal, Foreign Policy and British journal Prospect listed him as among the world’s top 100 public intellectuals. Mazrui is survived by his wife and six children.

Mazrui

Bishops say gays have gifts to offer Catholic church

Pro-democracy protesters protecting a barricade from rival protest groups in Hong Kong

Clashes as masked men rush Hong Kong protest barricades

haos erupted in central Hong Kong yesterday as dozens of masked men rushed barricades at the city's main pro-democracy site triggering clashes with protesters, hours after police had moved in to remove some barriers. Groups of men, many wearing surgical masks, descended on the front lines of the rally at Admiralty near Hong Kong's central business district, while other angry anti-Occupy groups gathered demanding the demonstrators leave. Protesters, who have come under attack from organised crime gangs known as triads at another flashpoint demonstration site in Mong Kok, shouted: "Weapons! Weapons!" and "Arrest the triads". Television footage showed one masked man being forced to drop a small flick knife while trucks with cranes moved in to remove barriers. Taxi drivers also converged on the site with their cars demanding the barricades be removed and other anti-Occupy groups chanted "Occupy is illegal". The chaos broke out after around 100 opponents of the pro-democracy protests had gathered nearby. Moments earlier Hong Kong's embattled leader Leung Chun-ying had told reporters in the Chinese city of Guangzhou that he wanted the protests to end. "Under the appropriate situation we hope to allow society to return to normal as quickly as possible," he said on the sidelines of a trade meeting. The

demonstrators are calling for Beijing to grant full democracy to the former British colony and have brought parts of Hong Kong to a standstill over the last fortnight, prompting clashes with elements who oppose the blockades and widespread disruption. Despite repeated orders to disperse, the rallies have taken on an air of permanence, with tents, portable showers and lecture venues. Police took down some peripheral barricades in a dawn operation allowing traffic to pass around the site

for the first time in two weeks, they said that they were intent on clearing blockages to traffic rather than ending the protests outright. The overall atmosphere had been calm as small groups of protesters worked to reestablish barricades within police lines. But some protesters voiced anger at what they saw as a police swoop. "There was no warning in advance whatsoever. It was nasty," student protester Lanny Li told AFP. Li said the occupied area is shrinking making it more vulnerable.

Jean Tirole awarded 2014 Nobel Prize for Economics

ean Tirole has been announced as the winner of the Nobel in economics "for his analysis of market power and regulation" Jean Tirole has been named as 2014's winner of the Economics Nobel prize, for his work on the regulation of large companies. The French professor’s research has been central to the study of regulation in economics, since he began work in the area in the early 1980s. He has helped economists and policymakers to understand how best to regulate large firms, especially where regulators face “asymmetric information” - where they do not have access to the same knowledge as the firms they seek to regulate. As re-

cipient of the prize, Mr Tirole will now receive 8m krona (£683,000). He is the scientific director of industrial economics at Toulouse University, and earned his PhD at MIT. This year's prize is about "market power", Tore Ellingsen, permanent secretary of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said. Alex Tabarrok, economist and co-author of the Marginal Revolution blog, said that Mr Tirole's greatest contribution is in bringing game theory the study of decision making - to industrial organisation. The Nobel award has already been granted to the founders of game theory, and "then to applications of the new theory in different areas", said Mr Tabarrok.

atholic bishops showed unprecedented openness yesterday to accepting the real lives of many Catholics today, saying gays had gifts to offer the church and should be accepted and that there were "positive" aspects to a couple living together without being married. A two-week meeting of bishops on family issues arrived at its halfway point with a document summarizing the closed-door debate so far. No decisions were announced, but the tone of the report was one of almost-revolutionary acceptance, rather than condemnation, with the aim of guiding Catholics toward the ideal of a lasting marriage. Bishops clearly took into account the views of Pope Francis, whose "Who am I to judge?" comment about gays signaled a new tone of welcome for the church. Their report also reflected the views of ordinary Catholics who, in responses to Vatican questionnaires in the run-up to the synod, rejected church teaching on birth control and homosexuality as outdated and irrelevant. The bishops said gays had "gifts and qualities" to offer and asked rhetorically if the church was ready to provide them a welcoming place, "accepting and valuing their sexual orientation without compromising Catholic doctrine on the family and matrimony." For a 2,000-year-old institution that teaches that gay sex is "intrinsically disordered,"

even posing the question is significant. "This is a stunning change in the way the Catholic Church speaks of gay people," said the Rev. James Martin, a Jesuit author. "The Synod is clearly listening to the complex, real-life experiences of Catholics around the world, and seeking to address them with mercy, as Jesus did." The bishops repeated that gay marriage was off the table. But it acknowledged that gay partnerships had merit. "Without denying the moral problems connected to homosexual unions, it has to be noted that there are cases in which mutual aid to the point of sacrifice constitutes a precious support in the life of the partners," they said. Conservative groups rejected the report as a "betrayal" and even heresy. "What will Catholics parents now have to tell their children about contraception, cohabiting with partners or living homosexual lifestyles?" asked Maria Madise, coordinator of the Voice of the Family, which counts pro-life and conservative groups as members. "Will those parents now have to tell their children that the Vatican teaches that there are positive and constructive aspects to these mortal sins? This approach destroys grace in souls." For heterosexuals, the bishops said the church must grasp the "positive reality of civil weddings" and even cohabitation, with the aim of helping the couple commit eventually to a church wedding.

Mozambique's parties clash ahead of voting

ay-long fighting erupted between the supporters of Mozambique's ruling Frelimo and opposition party Renamo, as they concluded electioneering ahead of polls this week, police said yesterday. Feuding between Frelimo and Renamo dates back to the southern African nation's almost 16-year-long civil war which ended in 1992. The two groups have had an uneasy relationship since. Brawling supporters clashed in the northern city of Nampula Sunday, where 23 people were injured and 13 others arrested, marking a serious case of political related violence before Wednesday's vote. Police were "forced to use

teargas" to disperse Renamo members who were "creating total chaos in Nampula," said spokesman Miguel Bartolomeu. He said Frelimo supporters did not retaliate during the skirmishes that lasted almost the entire day. "The police arrested 13 people in connection with this incident," he said adding that all those arrested were Renamo sympathisers. The violence took place ahead of a rally by Renamo's presidential candidate Afonso Dhlakama, held on the same day as the ruling Frelimo. Renamo has blamed Frelimo for the violence, accusing the police of firing live ammunition at their supporters and being partisan.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

International Football

Sports News

Keshi destroyed Eagles -Ikpeba

I don’t have Ebola, says Essien

Zambia must fall, says Oparanozie

Sport

Did you know? That Nigeria played its first ever Olympic Games football match on 14 October 1968 against Japan, in Puebla, Mexico. Nigeria lost 3-1 with Samuel Okoye grabbing Nigeria’s only goal.

Eagles’ job: NFF considers Emenalo, Oliseh

lForeign coach also on the cards Emmanuel Tobi and Ajibade Olusesan Oliseh

Emenalo

Mikel (left) shielding a Sudan player

ormer Super Eagles players, Sunday Oliseh and Michael Emenalo, are the leading candidates for the position of national team coach when the Nigeria Football Federation finally axes current handler, Stephen Keshi, New Telegraph can exclusively reveal. The odds are against Keshi to continue in his position after a dismal performance in the 2015 African Nations Cup qualifiers and our correspondents scooped that egg-heads in the federation are about to open discussions with Oliseh and Emenalo on the possibility of taking over. Sources informed New Telegrapgh that Emenalo, who is currently the Technical Director of the English Premier League club, Chelsea, has a slight advantage over his former nation-

al teammate as he is favoured by many board members for the job. According to our sources, Emenalo’s international exposure as a coach in one of the best leagues in the world and his calming figure overwhelmingly count in his favour. Some members have raised doubts about Oliseh’s ability to cultivate harmonious relationship with his employers as they see him as another character that may be too difficult to manage. “The top guys in the NFF have made up their minds to allow Keshi to go and they are now weighing up several options. Coaches have been considered, especially the indigenous ones and some of the names that have come up are Oliseh and Emenalo, they’re the ones actually leading the race but Emenalo is favoured. “They know that Oliseh is quite popular among Nigerians, being a former captain

of the team and they also know that the guy is quite knowledgeable when it comes to football but have issues with his attitude. That may count against him, because they don’t want to have a repeat of what happened during Samson Siasia and Keshi’s eras. “They see Emenalo as somebody who they can easily work with having the mentality of a foreign coach. He is with Chelsea, you know, he has worked with several top coaches in Chelsea and have gathered enough experience at that level,” the source said. It was also learnt that the NFF was set to constitute a Technical Committee to work on the hiring of a new coach but if they could not finalise the deal before Eagles match in Congo next month, then somebody might be appointed in an interim capacity to prosecute the remaining matches.

Keshi banks on bigwigs to save job Ajibade Olusesan

The Sport Team

Adekunle Salami l Deputy Editor, Sports Emmanuel Tobi l Assistant Editor, Sports

Ifeanyi Ibeh l Sports Correspondent

Ajibade Olusesan l Sports Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya l Sports Correspondent

uper Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, is desperately fighting to hold on to his position as powerful Nigerians have made it difficult for the Nigeria Football Federation to axe the gaffer. Calls for the head of the coach have continued to mount following the poor run of his team in the 2015 AFCON qualifiers. But our correspondent learnt that the coach enjoys tremendous influence in high places and the NFF has

found it extremely difficult to fire him. New Telegraph learnt that the NFF wanted to take a decision to relieve the coach of his job after the team suffered another embarrassing loss in Sudan on Saturday but were cautioned by some big wigs to stay action. “Keshi is still banking on powerful Nigerians to save his job despite the fact that many Nigerians want him to go,” our source said. “In fact his influence stretches as far as the Presidency.

He has been enjoying tremendous support of one of the most powerful Nigerians since after the World Cup and that is why he could do things even without regard for his employers. “Left to the NFF, another person would have been asked to lead the team for Wednesday’s AFCON qualifier against Sudan in Abuja, but they still have to consult with some powerful people before they can take that decision,” our source said. Keshi

SPORT

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Nigeria vs Sudan AFCON 2015 QUALIFIERS Angry fans to storm Abuja Stadium with placards

l“Save Eagles Group” plans protest in Lagos Emmanuel Tobi

n the wake of a 1-0 loss on Saturday away to Sudan in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, latest reports emanating from Abuja reveal that angry football fans have vowed to storm the Abuja National Stadium with placards calling for the disbandment of the Super Eagles and the sacking of the coaching crew. The Super Eagles on Sunday got a hostile reception from aggrieved fans upon their arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The fans were obviously still furious with the Eagles for their lame duck performance against Sudan on Saturday, and promptly booed the players on sighting them at the airport. Similarly, a group of football enthusiasts known as “Save Eagles Group” at the National Stadium in

Lagos on Sunday revealed they would be staging a peaceful demonstration to call for the sacking of Stephen Keshi. According to the coordinator of the group, Aslem Uchenna, “We have had enough of Keshi and we are demanding his exit to allow our football to grow. We shall be leading a protest march from the Stadium to some top media houses in Lagos before going to Abuja.” He added: “If the NFF is not ready to listen to the voice of Nigerians, then we will demand for the removal of the new NFF board since they can’t take a major decision that will change out football. We can’t play politics with our football.” Nigeria are currently bottom of Group A with one point from three matches, with South Africa sitting at the top of the standings, followed by Congo in second place and Sudan in the third spot.

Saboteurs ruining Eagles –Keshi N igeria coach Stephen Keshi has claimed his side’s struggles in qualifying for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations are the result of “sabotage”. The Super Eagles suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Sudan on Saturday, and are bottom of Group A with only one point.

Nigeria have many offfield issues, with the football federation in crisis and Keshi working without a contract. “There is sabotage by some people. I won’t mention their names but they know themselves,” said Keshi. “They want to run this team down. Some people are

Keshi too arrogant – Owolabi Charles Ogundiya

ormer Super Eagles star, Felix Owolabi, has said the attitude of Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, has cost the nation dearly. The player known as Owoblow in his playing days said Keshi displayed a high level of arrogance and stubbornness by not listening to constructive criticisms, a situation the country is now paying for. “When people like us advised the coach to invite some players that are doing well and the coach concluded they were not good enough for him, we had no choice but to let him be,” said Owolabi. “When people like that fail, they will learn their lesson the hard way, which has now happened. “We should have learnt a lot of lesson from the World Cup, where some set of players we advised the coach to include in his team were not called up. And till now the country is paying the price for one man’s stubbornness.” He added: “Even in the game against Congo (in Nigeria’s 3-2 loss in Calabar), a lot of things went wrong but the coach failed to do the necessary thing.”

Musa struggles with injury

SKA Moscow forward Ahmed Musa could be a major injury concern for Nigeria for Wednesday’s AFCON clash against Sudan after he skipped training on Sunday. Team of ficials said Musa is nursing a knock he picked up from Saturday’s 1-0 loss in Sudan. The winger has start-

ed the Eagles last three matches. Nigeria missed Stoke City star Victor Moses and Ukraine-based forward Babatunde Michael for the first AFCON qualifier in Sudan on account of injury. The African champions host Sudan on Wednesday at Musa 5pm in Abuja.

Produce results, Danagogo charges Eagles

he Sports Minister and Chairman, National Sports Commission, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, has lamented the poor showing of the Super Eagles in the African Nations Cup qualifiers which has placed them at the bottom of their group. This is on the heels of the superlative performance of the national women team, the Super Falcons whom he congratulated for beating their Cote’d Ivoire counterparts 4 – 2 on Saturday at the on-going African

Women Championship in Namibia. Dr. Danagogo described as unacceptable the 1-0 lack–luster performance of the Eagles against Sudan who overtook them to the third position on the table with three points to the Eagles’ one. “The coaching crew and the NFF must re-strategise to ensure that the team improves on their performance and pick up a ticket for the Nations Cup next year”, the Minister said. Towards this end he has directed that the gates be

thrown open for fans to come out in large numbers to cheer the Eagles to victory on Wednesday as he appealed to the fans to continue to show patriotism by staying by the team. Dr. Danagogo commended the Super Falcons for starting their African Women Championship on a winning, note, stressing that they should continue to improve with every game until they recapture the trophy which they lost in Equatorial Guinea two years ago.

Obuh ready to assist Super Eagles F ormer Nigeria Under-17 and Under-20 coach John Obuh says he deserves to be given a back room role in the Super Eagles. The Enugu Rangers gaffer said his experience with working with some of the Super Eagles players at youth level should be a reason for him to be employed. “At least six players in the Ea-

gles squad have played under me at various levels,” he told SL10. “If am in the set-up, I will advise and guide on their usage as I know their strengths and weaknesses, I am ready for the role if called up.” On the usage of players who have played under him at youth level in the Super Eagles, Obuh cited Ramon Azeez as a victim of

ready to sell this country for a dime. They want to sabotage the Super Eagles. “It’s a shame. They don’t want this team to get to the Nations Cup, they want this team to lose outright.” Nigeria host Sudan, who are now third in the standings with three points, in a return fixture on Wednesday in Abuja.

poor usage. “Ramon Azeez’s case is pathetic. He is such a good player but used wrongly, hence he failed to sparkle,” he added. “Yes I admit he is played in the same role he has been used in his club, but he is more defensive than offensive, if I was in the team I would have helped his cause.”

Keshi destroyed Eagles -Ikpeba

Ikpeba

Ajibade Olusesan

ormer international, Victor Ikpeba, has again hit out at the embattled Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, for destroying a good team he built ahead of the last African Nations Cup in South Africa. The former African Footballer of the Year said on Monday that the coach did well by building a strong side that went ahead to win the Nations Cup last year but surprisingly the coach has been the architect of the team’s misfortunes with technical errors and rash decisions. “Keshi built a good team that went on to win the 2013 Nations Cup but he has damaged the same team. Some of his tactical decisions are questionable. You are

expected to be like a father to these players but the way he has behaved left much to be desired. No big player will like to come to Africa and be benched, but there is a way you can do it, you have to dialogue with these players and they will understand. “There is something happening to our national team and who coaches the team must be looked at critically,” he said. The former Monaco striker also carpeted the players saying they have not covered themselves in glory. He said they have allowed money to erode their sense of patriotism and wondered why they would always demand for money before a match. “When the players started demanding for money right from the Confederations Cup and even World Cup I knew the team was doomed. Imagine, these players were counting money up till 2am of a day they had an important World Cup match, at that point I knew they had lost. Throughout my years as a national team player we never collected our bonus before a match is played, this thing must stop,” he said.

SPORT | International Football

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

I don’t have Ebola, says Essien

ichael Essien and his club AC Milan have both categorically denied reports that the player has contracted Ebola. Reports had surfaced over the weekend claiming that the former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder had caught the virus. However, the Ghana international, who has appeared three times for the Rossoneri this season, was quick to dismiss the rumours with a tweet using the hashtag #falsenews. “No truth in internet rumours that I have contracted Ebola. I’m very

well and I’m doing very good and will be training as usual tomorrow,” tweeted Essien. Not long after, his club published a statement on their website saying that they “categorically deny any presumed pieces of news from abroad about our players. Such reports, totally unfounded, have also never been confirmed by any members of our club.” Reports had quoted Milan’s press spokesman Riccardo Coli confirming that Essien had indeed caught the virus. These were also carried via Twitter, leading to Essien’s denial and threat to sue.

Mourinho: I turned down PSG twice

Mourinho

helsea boss Jose Mourinho has revealed he rejected two approaches from Paris Saint-Germain to become the French club’s coach. Mourinho claims he was offered the chance twice to take charge of the French club before and after former Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival and subsequent departure. The Portuguese claims he considered the offers, but decided to stay at Real Madrid at the time of the first offer, while he decided to return to Chelsea

when the second offer came about. “I knew about the project (at PSG) even before it began. I was Leonardo’s first choice (ahead of Ancelotti),” Mourinho told French football programme Telefoot. “And when Carlo left (in 2013), they made me another offer. I have rejected them twice. “I thought a lot about it. But the first time, there was Real Madrid and the second time there was Chelsea. I want to stay at Chelsea for as many years as possible. I have no other project than managing at Chelsea where I want to be.” Mourinho also played down talk linking him with a move to be reunited with Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane at Chelsea, insisting he is not planning any moves for the 21-year-old. “I am talking about Rafa because I know he is a Real Madrid player, he will stay and even signed a new contract,” added Mourinho. “There is no gap for any speculation.”

Joining Real right decision – Kroos

oni Kroos has insisted that he made the right decision by leaving Bayern Munich for Real Madrid in the summer. The Germany international midfielder joined the Spanish giants on a six-year deal back in July, ending a seven-year association with Bayern. However, the 24-year-old admits that he is enjoying life in Madrid playing alongside players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale. “I’m happy to have been given the chance to try something new. Even though it’s only been a short while I felt like it was

Kroos

the right decision,” he told Die Welt. “Madrid is a special club and the challenge I was looking for after my long and successful career at Bayern.” Kroos has made 12 appearances in all competitions for Madrid so far this season.

Wenger: Giroud recovery ‘ahead of schedule’

Essien (left)

It will be tough to bench Casillas – De Gea

avid de Gea has admitted that he still has plenty of work to do to become Spain’s first-choice goalkeeper, despite making his competitive debut on Sunday. The Manchester United stopper replaced Casillas in the team after the Real Madrid man’s error contributed to a surprise 2-1 defeat to Slovakia on Thursday. De Gea kept a clean

rsene Wenger believes Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud’s recovery from a fractured tibia is progressing “ahead of schedule”. The France international has not featured since sustaining the injury in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Everton in August, having undergone surgery later that month. Giroud was initially expected to return to action towards the end of December, but Wenger has been buoyed by the former Montpellier man’s progress. “Olivier Giroud is recovering very well,” the Arsenal manager told beIN Sports. “I believe he is ahead of schedule in terms of rehabilitation. The operation went perfectly.”

sheet as Spain ran out 4-0 winners against Luxembourg. “I felt very comfortable with the team,” the Manchester Evening News quotes De Gea as saying. “It’s an important victory. Gradually you gain confidence and with the encouragement I get, it’s easier. “The coach decides who plays. I always come with all the enthusiasm David de Gea (left) and Iker Casillas I have to help the team.” participate in a training session

Bafana star, Erasmus, wary of complacency afana Bafana striker Kermit Eras- we’re working on things that we B mus says they need to ensure they can improve and coming from are not complacent when they host Congo back to the country, it gives Congo for another 2015 African Nations Cup qualifier on Wednesday. South Africa beat Congo 2-0 in Pointe Noire last Saturday to go top of the Group A standings and a win on Wednesday will ensure Bafana qualifies for Morocco next year. Erasmus was speaking to the media after their training session in Polokwane on Monday and he says as strikers, they need to shoot at the Congolese keeper, Chansel Massa. “The mood is great in the team, Erasmus

Germany, gone from hunter to prey – Loew

ermany boss Joachim Loew has warned his players they have gone from hunter to prey since winning the World Cup. Loew’s men head into Euro 2016 battle with the Republic of Ireland in Gelsenkirchen on Tuesday on the back of a 2-0 defeat in Poland on Saturday. But while the manager insists the weight of success is not a burden for his team, he admits the label does serve to inspire whoever they come up against. Loew said: “The difficulties we are experiencing at the moment are of a type that we have experienced many times before. But generally speaking, I don’t think the position now is anymore difficult than it’s always been. “We used to be the hunter; now we are the prey. We know that teams like Scotland will play with incredible motivation against us

- but that was true even after [the World Cup in] 2010 and [Euro] 2012. “We know the situation, we know how to get by it, but it’s no different now than it used to be.”

Low

us an advantage but we can’t be complacent,” said Erasmus. “We aim to continue to build up from our performance in Congo to try and get a result on Wednesday,” added the Port Elizabeth-born player.

Inzaghi will lead Milan to the top – Berlusconi

ilvio Berlusconi says Milan can return to the summit of European football under the guidance of head coach Filippo Inzaghi. Milan could only muster an eighth-place finish in Serie A last term and missed out on a spot in Europe as a result. However, Inzaghi has led the club to 11 points from six matches following his appointment in June and Milan president Berlusconi believes it is only a matter of time before further success comes the way of the 18-time Italian champions. “We are working to rebuild a winning Milan,” he told the Gazzetta dello Sport. “Now I have more time at Milan and there is a nice atmosphere, a new coach with a real desire to win and to go back to being leaders in Italy, in Europe, in the world, as it has always been for the past thirty years.

SPORT

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Zambia must fall, says Oparanozie

uper Falcons top striker, Desire Oparanozie, has expressed confidence that Zambia cannot stop Nigeria from picking the maximum three points that will see them through to the semifinals of the ongoing Africa Women Championship in Namibia. Oparanozie, who got a brace in the match against Ivory Coast, said although Falcons did not really play to their full potential, she believes that the team will improve in every game. “We all know what we are here for and the task ahead. We have all agreed amongst ourselves that we will not share any point, let alone lose any match,” said Oparanozie. “We will go for the kill against Zambia and take the maximum points. “Nigerians should expect nothing but victory

in the game against Zambia. By God’s grace, we will pick the three points to qualify for the semifinals.” In the same vein, Falcons’ striker, Esther Sunday, who got the opening goal for the Super Falcons in their match against Ivory Coast, said although she never expected to score the opening goal, she is however happy to be the first person to open scoring. “I’m very elated because I did not expect to score. I thank God I did my best by scoring and playing well for my team. I was excited to score the first goal for my country in this year’s AWC,” said Sunday. The Falcons will continue their campaign against debutants, Zambia, on Tuesday, at the Sam Nujoma Stadium.

Falcons won’t underrate Zambia –Okon

uper Falcons Head Coach Edwin Okon says he will field a strong team in the game against Zambia as his wards hope to win the tournament. Nigeria face Zambia on Tuesday in a Group A African Women’s Championship match scheduled to be played at The Sam Nujoma Stadium in Windhoek. “In football you can’t afford to underestimate any opponent,” the tactician said. The Super Falcons of Nigeria were made to work hard for a 4-2 win over a resurgent and determined Ivory Coast in their Group opener on Saturday. “The 9th AWC is a tournament we want to win and I want us to continue on a positive note by beating Zambia,” he continued. “We have witnessed upsets in the past so we will not be complacent against the Shepolopolo. “We know they are a good side and you can also notice the quality in our team too.”

Oparanozie (left)

Globacom urges Falcons to beat Zambia l Pinnick wants semifinal ticket

lobacom, the major sponsor of Nigerian national teams, has charged the Nigeria’s women national team, Super Falcons, to go for outright victory against Zambia when both sides clash in the crucial second Group A match of the on-going African Women’s Championship in Namibia on Tuesday. “It is important for Falcons to go for victory in this encounter to

SpringFresh,Civil Defence dazzle at Table Tennis league

he venue of the ongoing Nigeria Table Tennis Federation national league, on Monday, was thrown into excitement during the encounter between the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and table topper, Springfresh, as the tournament enters crucial stage. The civil Defence had a wonderful start to the match but the Springfresh boys rediscovered their form later on and rallied from 2-1 down to put the game at 2-2. But Civil Defence captain, Kazeem Makanjuola, used his experience to ensure that NSCDC won the game at 3-2. Despite the loss, Springfresh are still top of the table. With few matches left for teams to play, matches in the

Akpabio explains motive behind A’Ibom Stadium Adekunle Salami

T Oribamise in action

female category will be concluded today, while the male team will round off their games on Wednesday as players intensify efforts to get spots in the grand finale slated for Friday. In the female division, the absence of Tosin Oribamishe in the G20 team became obvi-

ous as the team made up of junior players yesterday lost 3-1 to Springfresh . A disappointed member of the G20 girls, Ajoke Ojomu, said that she was dazed with the loss they suffered against Springfresh, admitting that she was yet to get used to the new ball.

Anyasi to head NFF technical committee Ifeanyi Ibeh

help the team qualify for the quarterfinals ahead of their last group match against host Namibia,” Globacom said in a statement in Lagos on Monday. “We wish to congratulate the team on their victory over Cote d’Ivoire. We advise them to remain focused and bring back the Cup to Nigeria,” the statement further said. Similarly, President of Nigeria

nyimba FC chair man, Felix Anyasi-Agwu, looks set to be named as the new head of the Nigeria Football Federation’s technical committee. The position was previously held by Christopher Green, who served in that capacity during Aminu Maigari’s tenure as NFF president. A highly placed source in the NFF infor med New Telegraph that the choice of the Enyimba boss was mostly due to the vast

experience the Abia-bor n football administrator has gar nered with Enyimba, especially in African football where he supervised the Aba-based club’s back to back victories in the CAF Champions League in 2003 and 2004. The source also disclosed that the technical committee’s erstwhile boss, Green, will still be included in the committee in order to have some measure of ‘continuity’ in the body, which has over the years been regarded as one of the most powerful organs within the NFF.

Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Pinnick, has charged the players to go for a comfortable win that will seal their place in the semi-finals of the competition. “Our ever –brilliant and courageous ladies have started on a good note by whipping the Les Elephantes of Cote d’Ivoire. Now, the three points against the Zambians are important in order to take us to the semifinals and closer to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada.”

he governor of Akwa Ibom State, Godswill Akpabio, has explained why he decided to erect an ultramodern 30,000 capacity stadium in the state. Akpabio said that the need to put to use some of the things he had seen abroad informed his decision to start work on the Akwa Ibom Stadium. The governor said; “When we go out, we see so many beautiful infrastructure and I think it is only good to bring such idea home. The Akwa Ibom Stadium is one of such projects to show our people that we can also be creative here in Nigeria.

Akpabio added that, “We expect people from other parts especially Lagos and Abuja to visit the state more often because of the stadium. There will be businesses for the people and we are going to hugely benefit for many years to come,” the governor added. The beautiful edifice will be inaugurated on November 6, in Uyo with dignitaries in sports and other fields expected in attendance. Football legend, Edson Arantes de Nacimento, popularly known as Pele, is one of the top football dignitaries expected to be in Uyo for the opening of the stadium.

Eagles: Ugbe preaches caution, patience ormer Commissioner for Sport Ugbe, a governorship aspirant F in Cross River State, Patrick in the State, on the ticket of the Ugbe, has pleaded for caution and PDP, and under whose supervision patience from Nigerians on the disturbing performance of the Super Eagles in AFCON 2015 qualifiers. Reacting to the loss to Sudan and the ensuing wave of emotions, Ugbe expressed disappointment in the result and what it meant for Nigerian football. “It was very disappointing,” he said, “It was more so, given the manner of the defeat and how our boys played. There did not seem to be any desire amongst them and that is what hurts most”.

most of the Eagles’ home games were played in the last two years, continued “I know the team. They are like our babies in Cross River State and I know that they are better than the displays they have shown us this far”, stating further that “It is not over though. Nigerians must get behind the team and leave personal issues out of it for now. It is important that we get a victory on Wednesday and make a late surge for qualification from the group.”

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2014

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The largest living cat is Hercules, measures 3.33 m (131 in), stands 1.25 m (49 in) at the shoulder, and weighs 418.2 kg (922 lb), currently housed at Myrtle Beach Safari, a wildlife reserve in South Carolina, USA.

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Ebola panic is another matter

ast week, an elderly African woman Africa collapsed and vomited at a Liverpool bus station. Her plight prompted a near stampede amongst passengers panicking that she had died of Ebola. Medical staff in full HazMat suits sealed her in a protective suit before removing her. In a separate incident, another HazMat team rushed onto a plane in Philadelphia after a man sneezed and yelled: “I have Ebola!” And in Australia, a plane was forced to make an emergency landing after a seriously ill passenger was reportedly vomiting blood on board. What these three incidents have in common is that none of the protagonists actually had Ebola. Fears surrounding the spread of Ebola have led to a string of false alarms by people fearing they have caught or been exposed to the killer disease. More than 800 Ebola false alarms come in each day in the US alone. However, beneath the cloud of hysteria consuming the West, Nigeria has been quietly getting on with actually containing the disease. Since Ebola’s emergence in late July in Lagos, Nigeria’s national and local authorities have acted admirably to stop its spread. Lagos has two laboratories to detect Ebola, where they have been able to quickly confirm cases, trace their origins and contain the disease. Although the epidemic is spreading dangerously in nearby Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, Nigeria appears to have defeated the disease. The US health authorities now say that the outbreak is over in Nigeria and Senegal after no new cases were reported there for almost a month. News of this inspiring breakthrough has been missed under the ruckus of panic. Ignoring this good news may mean that many in America and Europe will continue to wrap Nigeria up in a cliché of basket case African countries where disease-ridden can be added to dismissive labels like poverty and war. It could also mean missing the lessons from this. Nigeria’s 60 per cent cure rate is the result of a number of smart measures. It includes sending local health workers out to pay face-to-face visits to take the temperatures of suspected cases; training local doctors in epidemiology; equipping hospitals properly to cope with the disease; and working closely with the US-based Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Doctors Without Borders and the International Committee for the Red Cross. But if Ebola is on the back foot in Nigeria, Ebola panic is spreading with a fury across America and Europe. We all now know the worst about Ebola: it is a horrible disease causing fever, vomiting and diarrhoea; the current outbreak has mortality rate of about 70%; and there is

World View

Since Ebola’s emergence in late July in Lagos, Nigeria’s national and local authorities have acted admirably to stop its spread

LEO CENDROWICZ Bureau Chief, Brussels

Emory staff care for an American missionary who contracted Ebola in Africa.

Minister of Health, Onyebuchi Chukwu

DG, WHO, Margaret Chan

no proven vaccine or cure. But the worst does not imply the inevitable. A few key details are worth noting. Though often deadly, Ebola does not spread easily: it is only caught through bodily fluids, primarily their blood, saliva, vomit and sweat. Ebola spreads very slowly compared

to say, a common cold. Ebola is unlikely to become airborne – indeed, there are no known viruses that have successfully made the jump from blood-borne to airborne. Some of the myths are absurd, like those asserting that raw onions and salt water protect people from Ebola

PHOTO: Los Angeles Times

(the WHO says at least two people in Nigeria died after dowsing themselves in salt water). Alongside myths, a number of panic demands have been made, like quarantining anyone with ‘Ebola-like symptoms’ (as they are just like flu, that would simply trigger endless false alarms) and screening everyone for Ebola (again, inviting false alarms). To keep Ebola in perspective, it is worth bearing in mind how other major diseases have played out. In its first year, swine flu infected an estimated 80 million people in virtually every country in the world. By contrast, the Ebola outbreak started last December and has spread to only 8,000, around 10,000 times fewer than swine flu. And in deadliness, Ebola is still far behind the illness that took hold as World War One ended: Spanish Influenza killed an estimated 50 million people globally, almost three times as many soldiers and civilians that died in WWI. Ebola is, of course, serious, with no proven cure. But let’s treat it for what it is: a disease that Nigeria has shown can be contained.

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