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Wednesday, August 20, 2014 Vol. 1 No. 183

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Discos, Gencos to reject N25bn legacy debts on gas lFG extends payment deadline for Afam Power, Kaduna Disco Simeon Ogoegbulem and Adeola Yusuf

s the new assets’ owners in electricity generation and distribu-

tion sub sectors meet today in Abuja, they have collectively decided to reject the N25 billion legacy debts on gas, New Telegraph gathered yesterday.

Their decision to reject the legacy debts came hours after the Federal Government granted the request by Televeras Group and Northwest

Power Plc, the preferred bidders for Afam Power Plc and Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDC) respectively, for the extension of payment

date of the balance of 75 per cent of the purchase price. The legacy debts are the leftover debts, which CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Pope Francis: I’ll bow out within three years

lSays death or resignation likely by then lLoses three relatives in car crash Oluwatosin Omoniyi

L-R: President Goodluck Jonathan (left) and Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, at the eight annual Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Finance Conference in Abuja...yesterday.

ope Francis has predicted an end to his papacy, either by death within three years or by resignation. The pope, while fielding questions from journalists aboard the papal plane on his return trip from South Korea to Rome, said if he did not die, then he might resign like his predecessor, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. According to the transcript of the interview, which New Telegraph obtained yesterday from the website of Catholic News Agency (CNA), the pope, who lost three relatives in a car crash yesterday, also spoke on the situation in the Middle East and his relationship with the emeritus pope. The pope said he might retire from the papacy if he felt he could no longer perform his duties. Pope Benedict XVI

INEC creates additional 30,000 polling units lReleases timetable for Adamawa gov by-election lSecurity agents on election duty to vote in 2015 Onwuka Nzeshi, Philip Nyam and Onyekachi Eze

he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday announced the creation

of 30,000 additional polling units to bring the total number of voting centres in the country to 150,000. The commission, which has released the timetable for the governorship by-

election in Adamawa State, also put the total number of registered voters at 70,383427. The decision to create additional polling units, according to a statement by

INEC Director in charge of its secretariat, Ishiaku A. Gali, was reached at a meeting on August 12. The creation of more polling units, it added, was necessitated by the need to

comply with the provision of the 2010 Electoral Act, which states that each polling unit shall not have more than 500 voters. INEC source confided in New Telegraph that some polling units overshot this figure, hence the need for additional polling CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

who was hobbled by old age had in a rare gesture, stepped down on February 28, 2013 to pave the way for the ascension of Argentina-born Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergoglio, to the papacy after which he took the name Pope Francis. The 77-year-old pontiff, who seemed in good spirits, was asked about his global popularity, which

Full interview on pages 14 - 16 was evident again during his five-day visit. “I see it as the generosity of the people of God. I try to think of my sins, my mistakes, not to become proud. Because I know it will last only a short time. Two or three years and then I’ll be off to the Father’s house,” he said. The pope said he could handle the popularity CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Doctor, who treated Sawyer, dies of Ebola }6 Lagos

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Impeachment saga: Police arrest 14 Ebonyi lawmakers Charles Onyekwere ABAKALIKI

he crisis rocking the Ebonyi State House of Assembly yesterday took another dimension as operatives of the state police command arrested 14 lawmakers believe to be loyal to the factional Speaker, Mrs. Helen

Nwaobashi. They were arrested within the premises of the state high court after filing their case against the leadership of Chukwuma Nwazunku. The lawmakers have prayed the court to restrain Nwazunku to stop parading himself as the speaker of the House.

The Police laid siege for the 14 lawmakers at the court’s gate and bundled them to the nearby State Police Headquarters. At the time of filling this report, they were still being grilled at the state criminal investigation department at the command and all of them were forced to make statement.

A police source who spoke to New Telegraph on anonymity stressed that the lawmakers were arrested in connection with the petition before the commissioner of police from Nwazunku’s group alleging forgery, impeachment threat and disloyalty to the leadership of the House. Those arrested include

We’ll soon impeach Al-Makura, says Assembly Cheke Emmanuel LAFIA

rouble is far from being over for Governor Umaru Tanko Almakura as the Nasarawa State House of Assembly yesterday vowed to do everything possible within the ambit of the law to impeach him. The seven-man panel of investigation constituted by the state Chief

Judge, Justice Suleiman Dikko, had penultimate week cleared Al-makura of all the 16-count allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office levelled against the governor by the House. Chairman, House Committee on Information and Security, Baba Ibaku (PDP) Udege/Loko), told newsmen shortly after yesterday’s plenary that the House will do everything

within the ambit of the law to prove the allegations. Ibaku also dismissed speculation that the Federal Government and some Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwarts in Abuja were behind the impeachment plot against Al-Makura. Hear him: “The issue of backing out is out of context. I dismiss that without any regret that some members have backed

out, we are one and we will continue to be one on this matter.” The lawmaker insisted that Al-Makura is not worthy to be a governor, insisting that the governor does not mean well for the state. He also accused, Abdulhameed Kwarra, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Affairs, of being the initiator of the impeachment plan.

the Minority Leader, Enyi C. Enyi (APC); Minority Whip, Joseph Nwaobasi (APC); Deputy Speaker, Blaise Orji (PDP); Hon. Eni Uduma Chima and Ikechukwu Nwankwo and the former speaker among others. When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Chris Anyanwu confirmed the arrest stating that the lawmakers were summoned in connection with the petition before the CP Dikko Maigari by his Nwazunku and his group. It will be recalled that the crisis rocking the House started on July 21 when 18 of the 24 members of the House impeached Speaker Nwazunku. Nwazunku described his impeachment as illegal. Even the state governor, Chief Martin Elechi, insisted that Nwazunku

remains the authentic speaker. Nwazunku and nine other lawmakers loyal to him also filed a suit asking the State High Court to restrain Mrs.Nwaobasi from parading herself as Speaker. But the Nwaobasi group also filed a countermotion seeking to restrain Nwazunku from parading himself as Speaker of the Assembly. The 14 lawmakers are praying the court to declare Nwaobasi the authentic speaker of the House. Lawmakers loyal to both Nwaobasi and Nwanzunku were in court over the leadership crisis. The court, however, adjourned the ruling of the case to September 1st for final ruling on the suit which the 14 house members attended.

INEC releases timetable for Adamawa gov bye-election CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

L-R: National Commissioner, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Alhaji Abdulkadir Oniyangi; Chairman, INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega and Speaker, House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, at the public hearing on a Bill for an Act to amend the Electoral Act in Abuja… yesterday. PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

Foiled suicide bombing: Security beefed up at Lagos airport Wole Shadare

ollowing the arrest of a physically challenged man allegedly plotting to bomb the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) on Monday in Lagos, security has been beefed in and around the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos. Also, security operatives have stepped up patrol in Abuja and Port Harcourt airports. At the headquarters of NAMA, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the hitherto lax security was raised as cars are now screened with the aid of

hand held screening machines. At the access road leading to NAMA and FAAN, stern looking security men were on duty. Mobile Policemen were seen patrolling the area. At the international wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, stern looking mobile policemen were spotted screening people going into the terminal, while others said not to be travelling were prevented from going inside the area. The Nigerian Police at the Lagos airport yesterday kept mute for the second time since the arrest of the alleged suicide bomber. When our correspon-

dent contacted the Commissioner of Police, Airports Command, Mr. Waheed Salau, for his comment on the arrested bomber, he declined to comment, but rather said that the police were still investigating the issue. Salau could not also confirm if the suspect had been transferred to Abuja or still being kept in Lagos when probed further. But, a source close to the police confided in our correspondent that the suspect was still being held in Lagos. Salau said: “The Police are still investigating the matter. There is nothing new to talk about what happened. Everything has already been pub-

lished. I can’t comment on his whereabouts for now, but we are still investigating the matter.” Also, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Frank Mba also declined to comment on the arrested bomber. Mba told our correspondent to speak with the Salau on the issue, stressing that he was in the best position to comment on the matter. “Please, you can contact the Commissioner of Police, Airport Command on this issue. He’s the one on ground and very competent to talk on the matter. He’s the one dealing with the issue and the one to give accurate information on this issue.”

units. Proportional distribution of the newly created 150,000 polling units shows that Lagos State has the highest number with 2,870 to bring the total number of its polling units to 11,565 to serve its 5,426,391 registered voters while Kano State with 4,751,818 registered voters has additional 2,053 polling units to bring its total number to 9,809. Kaduna State, with registered voters of 3,743,815 got additional 2,878 polling units to bring the total number of polling units in the state to 7,485. Bayelsa State, which has the lowest voting strength of 590, 679 in the country got additional 121 polling units, making a total of 1,925 voting centres in the state. INEC has also released timetable for the October 11 governorship election in Adamawa State. According to a statement from the commission, the last day for submission of Forms CF002, CF001 and nomination forms at the INEC headquarters is September 17 while the last day for Publication of Personal Particulars of Candidates (CF001) is September 29. Campaign is billed to end on October 7. The governorship byelection became necessary following the July 15 impeachment that terminated the tenure of Alhaji Murtala Nyako as governor of the state.

Meanwhile, INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, has said the commission is making plans to ensure that security agents on election duty vote in the forthcoming 2015 general election. He, however, said it was “practically impossible” for Nigerians in Diaspora to vote in 2015 even if the Electoral Act, 2010 is amended to allow for such. Jega spoke in Abuja at a public hearing organised by the House of Representatives’ Committee on Electoral Matters to amend the Electoral Act to ensure a level playing field for all participants in the electoral process and for a more transparent process of conducting elections in Nigeria. He said: “By 2015 general election, we have planned to allow security forces who are on election duty to vote. Hopefully, God willing by 2015, security officials on election duty will be able to vote at their areas of posting.” He equally requested for an extension of the days for the transfer of voters from the proposed 45 days to 60 days due to the technicalities involved, even though the Electoral Act 2010 provides 35 days. On Diaspora voting, Jega said although INEC would want an amendment that would enable Nigerians living abroad to vote where they are, the commission did not have the wherewithal to comCONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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FLIGHT SCHEDULE 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

L-R: Group Chief Financial Officer, Forte Oil Plc, Mr. Julius Omodayo-Owotuga; Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Oscar Onyema; Group Chief Executive Officer, Forte Oil Plc, Mr. Akin Akinfemiwa; Executive Director, Business Development, NSE, Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri and Group Head, Human Resources, Forte Oil Plc, Mr. Oludare Arinde, during the Facts Behind the Figure of the company in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

Pope considers death or resignation CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“more naturally” these days, though at first it had “scared me a little”. While the Pope has not spoken publicly before about when he might die, a Vatican source said he had previously told those close to him that he thought he only had a few years left. Although Pope Francis is 77, he has been the most vigorous pope in years, his

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energy proving the key to his popularity. His frank admission may lead commentators to speculate as to whether he has any undisclosed health problems. At the time of his elevation to the papacy, reports emerged that Pope Francis had a lung removed when he was a teenager in Argentina after suffering an infection. Dr William Schaffner, chairman of preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Centre in Nashville, Tennessee, said at the time: “Obviously, this was a success because here he is at age 76. So whatever they did got him over that precari-

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church services. In his first month as pope, he hurt his sciatic nerve after using an uncomfortable chair. Sciatica is the name given to any sort of pain that is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body and it runs from the back of the pelvis, through the buttocks, and all the way down both legs, ending at the feet. The pope said resigning the papacy was also a possibility “even if it does not appeal to some theologians.” He added that 60 years ago it was practically unheard of for Catholic bish-

ops to retire, but nowadays it was common. As the jet travelled through Chinese airspace, Pope Francis also addressed the issues surrounding the Catholic Church in China, which refuses to allow Catholics to officially recognise the spiritual leadership of the Vatican. Since the communist revolution, Catholicism, like all religions, has been permitted to operate only under the supervision of the State Administration for Religious Affairs. Clergy who resisted this have been subject to oppression, including long imprisonments, torture CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

FG extends payment deadline for Afam Power, Kaduna Disco CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

KANO

ous period.” But the pope only admitted that he had “some nerve problems”, which required treatment. “Must treat them well, these nerves, give them mate (an Argentine stimulant tea) every day. “One of these neuroses, is that I’m too much of a homebody,” he added, recalling that the last time he’d taken a holiday outside of his native Argentina was ‘with the Jesuit community in 1975’. Pope Francis’s reference to ‘nerve problems’ may have been about his sciatica, which has been given as the reason he doesn’t bow before the Tabernacle when giving

the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) owed the Nigerian Gas Company (NGC) on gas supply. The new owners of the power assets, who bought over the PHCN and other generation firms on November 1, 2013, have been asked to pay off the debts through the issuance of bonds. A Federal Government committee comprising the Nigerian Electricity Regulating Commission (NERC), the Ministry of Power, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has asked the new owners who inherited both the liabilities and assets of the defunct PHCN to pay the outstanding debts. But a source close to the new alliance among the power assets’ owners told

New Telegraph that they would at the meeting today reject the payment of the legacy debts on gas. “The meeting today is a crucial one because it will address the critical aspect of privatisation, which is the legacy debts on gas. “These debts will be rejected because it is detrimental to the agreement with government on privatisation. It is only ideal and morally right for business and for all electricity consumers to only pay for gas that has been used with effect from November 1, 2013 when the new owners took over till date,” he said. Banks had after the outcome of the government’s committee meeting, said they would help raise funds to settle the N25 billion legacy debts. The banks made the offer last Friday at a meeting of the Bankers’ Committee

in Lagos. The committee said it had realised that lack of adequate gas supply was inhibiting the growth of the power sector. It, therefore, said the decision to help with the payment of the N25 billion debts owed the gas companies was because of its commitment to support the gas-to-power project in order to improve production in the sector. Aside paying the debts, the Bankers’ Committee said another incentive for the gas companies was that the price of the commodity had been reviewed upward. Speaking shortly after the meeting, the Group Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Jubril Aku, said: “The Minister of Petroleum Resources met with stakeholders and announced an increase in

the price of gas because the government wanted a situation whereby gas would be commercially available. “The increase in gas price was from $1.50 to $2.50, with a transportation percentage of 0.8, and enough incentive of 3.3 per cent. In taking this decision, it was considered that it was important for gas companies to grow in their production, as only 23 gas companies among the whole lot are currently independent. “More so, the gas companies have always been agitating that these debts should be paid. Meanwhile, Televeras Group and Northwest Power Plc, now have additional 60 days, from August 6 to October 6, to make full payment for the two power facilities. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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 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 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 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

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Why I left APC, by former EFCC boss, Ribadu lAdamawa lawmakers, LG chairmen, councillors back Fintiri Onwuka Nzeshi, Felix Nwaneri and Ibrahim Abdul

ormer Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, yesterday gave an insight into why he defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the build-up to the gubernatorial poll in Adamawa State. In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Ribadu said his decision to defect to the ruling party was in pursuit of a good cause, and not out of any selfish interests. He expressed concern at the various interpreta-

tions being given to his action but assured Nigerians that he has not betrayed any one, including his colleagues in the opposition camp. The former anti- corruption czar formally joined the PDP in Bako ward of Yola South Local Government and was given a membership card with registration number 1933795. The move has attracted negative reactions from the leadership of the , particularly when he was reported to have made some unpleasant comments about his experience with the party. He said although he had left the opposition party, he would continue to hold its leaders in high es-

teem and would not speak evil of his friends and associates in that party. “Let me quickly make it known that I did not issue a statement disparaging APC and its members, including Governors Amaechi, Kwankwaso… These were clearly fabricated, expected backlash, by mischievous characters interested in misleading the public and drawing a picture of non-existent feuds between me and my good friends. “My defection shouldn’t be seen as an initiation of political antagonism with my good friends in another party. I still hold them in high esteem, and even where there are marked differences, I believe there are decorous and honour-

able ways of resolving them. So, kindly disregard any statement said to be by me attacking the personality of any politician since my defection. I’ll never allow myself to be drawn into such disrespectful exchange. I’ll never allow myself to be drawn into such disrespectful exchange. As for my next step in this political struggle, this would be made known in due time,” he added. Meanwhile, the governorship ambition of the acting Governor, Alhaji Ahmadu Fintiri, got a boost yesterday as members of the state House of Assembly, local government chairmen and councillors pledged their support.

Speaking in separate interviews with newsmen in Yola, the Assembly House Committee Chairman on Information, Adamu Ka-

male and Chairman of the state branch of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Alhaji Sahabo Aliyu, said they were in support of the acting governor’s bid to transform to the substantive occupant of the office.

INEC releases timetable for Adamawa gov bye-election mence such an exercise in 2015. He also said electronic voting would not be possible in 2015, adding: “It will be for future elections.” On the seven day period stipulated in the Electoral Act for the conduct of run-off elections, Jega proposed an extension of the period to at least 21 days for the offices of the president and governors as provided “because it is technically impossible to do a run-off in seven days.” He said an amendment to Section 25 which provides for by-election whenever there is vacancy in a position would be appropriate so that all byelections would be done twice every year instead of the regular ones. The commission also supported the amendment to Section 29 (8) on the deployment of “the Nigerian Armed Forces only for the purpose of securing the distribution and delivery of election materials.” Earlier, House of Representatives Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal, while declaring open the pub-

lic hearing, stated that the 2015 general election would mark a watershed in Nigeria’s history even as he called on politicians to tread cautiously. According to him, as the 2015 elections draw nearer, there is a need for all stakeholders, especially members of the National Assembly “to tidy up every aspect of the regulations governing the conduct of our elections.” In another development, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday stated that President Goodluck Jonathan would contest the 2015 presidential election. PDP National Secretary, Prof. Olawale Oladipo, said while receiving a support group for the president, House 2 House Campaign Organisation, that the president would run. “I am not a prophet, but I am sure as a democrat he (Jonathan) will listen to the clarion call, and I promise that the National Working Committee (NWC) will do the needful,” he said.

FG extends payment deadline for Afam Power, Kaduna Disco L-R: Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (Tetfund), Professor Suleiman Bogoro; Chairman, House Committee on Education, Aminu Suleiman and his deputy, Rose Oko, during the committee’s visit to Tetfund in Abuja…yesterday. PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

Pope loses three relatives in car crash CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

and even martyrdom. Pope Francis told reporters he wants dialogue with China and the only thing he asks in return is for the Catholic Church to be able to operate freely. The pope said the church “only asks to have freedom to do its work. No other conditions.” “The Holy See is open to all contacts because it has true esteem for the Chinese people,” he stated. Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation last February made him the first Catholic leader to step down in nearly 600 years. He gave his age as his reason, but at the age of 85 and 318 days on the date of his retirement, he was only the fourth-oldest man

to hold the office. The move was unexpected since in modern times all popes have stayed in office until death. He is regarded as the first pope to have resigned without any political pressure since Celestine V in 1294. Benedict said at the time he had chosen to step aside because the physical and mental demands of the papacy were taking their toll on his deteriorating strength. According to a statement from the Vatican, the timing of the resignation was not caused by any specific illness but was to “avoid that exhausting rush of Easter engagements”. Since stepping down Benedict, who decided

not to revert back to his birth name Joseph Ratzinger, has held the title of Pope Emeritus and has continued living in the Vatican. He has continued to wear the white raiments of the Catholic Church’s highest office, but has dispensed with the over-theshoulder cape that cardinals and bishops wear. As he stepped down, Benedict declared he would continue to serve the church ‘through a life dedicated to prayer’. Vatican officials have since revealed he does not live a cloistered life, but spends time writing and studying. On the eve of the first anniversary of his resignation, Benedict wrote to

Italian paper La Stampa to deny speculation he had been forced to step down. The Vatican also yesterday announced that Pope Francis lost two greatnephews and their mother, the wife of his nephew, in a car crash. Their car collided with a truck carrying grain just after midnight near Cordoba, central Argentina, just after midnight, according to the Vatican and local media. One great-nephew was two, the other was only eight-months. The age of their mother was not immediately available. The pope’s nephew, Emanuel Bergoglio, who was driving the car, is in a serious condition in hospital.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

The Televeras Group, the preferred bidder for Afam Power Limited,, which had earlier called for the extension of its payment deadline, had pleaded the non-execution of the gas agreements required to bring the transaction to a financial conclusion and security challenges as reasons for seeking the extension. Televeras had on May 19 requested from the Federal Government an extension of time to pay the balance of the 75 per cent bid price for the power company because gas agreement that is germane to the completion under the Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) it signed with the government had not been executed. The group noted that the bankability of the transaction is predicated on the execution of the gas agreement and that the non-execution of the agreement had hindered it from satisfying the due diligence enquiry required for the raising of funds for

the financing of its pre and post-acquisition plans. On its part, Northwest Power Limited, the preferred bidder for the KEDC, had last month requested an extension of transaction timeline by 60 days due to the recent security challenges experienced within its coverage zone, which made its offshore financiers to postpone disbursement of bank facilities already obtained. The company explained that though it had secured financing for the transaction from a foreign bank, the bank had requested for additional time to review the transaction in the aftermath of the security challenges in Kaduna State to ensure the safety of its funds. Televeras had paid the initial deposit of 25 per cent of the bid price of $65.012 million for the Afam Power Plant while Northwest Power Plc paid $40.750 million for KEDC following which the SPA were executed by the two parties.

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Police get new 8 DIGs Juliana Francis and Emmanuel Onani Police Service ComTdayhemission (PSC) yesterpromoted six Assis-

Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu (right) and United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. James Entwistle, during a visit to the minister in Abuja

4.43m

The total population of men in Belarus in 2012. Source: Un.org

The number of fixed (wired)-broadband subscriptions per 100 inhabitants of Asia & Pacific region in 2008. Source: Itu.int

4,920

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

Doctor, who treated Sawyer, dies of Ebola

igeria yesterday recorded its fifth death from the deadly Ebola Virus Disease. Although the identity of the victim was not revealed as at press time, sources said it was a female medical doctor at First Consultant Hospital, Lagos, who treated the late Patrick Sawyer, the late Liberian, who brought the disease to Nigeria. A statement by the Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, confirmed the death late last night. The statement, signed by Dan Nwomeh, Special Assistant to the Minister read: “The Honourable Minister of Health, Prof.

 WHO: Virus kills 84 in three days Onyebuchi Chukwu regrets to announce the death, this evening, of one of the primary contacts of the index Ebola Virus Disease case, the most senior doctor who participated in the management of the patient, a female consultant physician. With this unfortunate development the total number of Ebola Virus related deaths in Nigeria now stands at five.” But sources outside the Ministry said that the latest victim is Dr. Ameyo Stella Adedavoh, a doctor at the hospital, who was said to have fallen into coma for nearly a week before finally succumbing to the disease.

Others who have died since the outbreak include nurses and an ECOWAS protocol officer. The Ebola virus killed 84 people in just three days, bringing the global death toll to 1,229, the World Health Organisation said yesterday. The death toll, which passed the 1,000-mark over a week ago, soared higher from last Thursday to Saturday. The number of confirmed infections jumped by 113 over the three days, bringing the total number of cases to 2,240, the UN health agency said. The epidemic, which

has hit four West African nations, including Nigeria, since it broke out in Guinea at the start of the year, is by far the deadliest since Ebola was discovered four decades ago in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. Liberia was the hardest-hit country in the latest figures, with 48 new cases and 53 deaths. That lifted its total count of cases to 834, with 466 deaths. The new WHO toll predates an attack overnight Saturday on a quarantine centre in the Liberian capital Monrovia that caused 17 Ebola patients to flee.

Mutiny: Army to court martial indicted soldiers — COAS Uwakwe Abugu and Emmanuel Onani

he Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Kenneth Minimah, yesterday vowed that soldiers who were involved in mutiny in the North East as well as those found culpable in sabotaging the campaign against terror would face the full wrath of military law. Minimah noted that the suspects will soon face court martial. He said each of the soldiers found culpable of mutiny will face firing squad. The army boss condemned any acts of sabotage and mutiny by soldiers in the ongoing military campaign against terror. Gen. Minimah also raised the hope of early end to the Boko Haram insurgency, saying that the additional platforms and equipment for fight-

ing and tracking down insurgents will soon arrive the country. This, he said, will make the fight against terrorism a lot better for the military and end the campaign sooner than expected. Minimah warned soldiers against laxity and indiscipline in the force, regretting what he called a complete absence of junior leadership in the Nigerian Army. The army chief, who was at the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu on a familiarisation tour of the army formations and units, while addressing soldiers, said "mutiny is death sentence in the military." He told the officers and men of the division that the mutineers who shot at the an officer on tour of their field operations lacked any sense of military discipline and demanded total loyalty from

the soldiers to enable the country reverses the ugly trend of terrorism. “Command responsibility has so waned these days that a private would pass by a corporal without showing full complement of military salute and the corporal in question would not do anything to call such a private to order. How and why we lost this junior leadership, I don’t know,” he decried. He also warned wives of soldiers against any further demonstration as recently experienced, saying wives of soldiers have no role in the military. He said protests by the wives of soldiers for whatever reason will be greeted with severe sanctions and actions, urging the soldiers to warn their wives of indecent conduct. The Army spokesman, Brig.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, also spoke on the mutiny in the military. Olukolade said: "That

degree of cowardice is not in the character of a real soldier of the Nigerian army. The series of lies contained in the alleged responses of the faceless person referred to as a soldier confirms the whole arrangement as another step of the mischief makers working for terrorists. No soldier has been sent on any mission without being armed. Each soldiers answers for his action in terms of discipline. "Anyone who knows the military reward for mutiny will not join anyone to try it. The overwhelming majority of the Nigerian soldiers remains as brave and disciplined as ever. They will certainly not join any renegade, coward, deserter or those trying to incite mutiny in the military to betray the nation at a time like this, in the way that impostor told his interviewers. His claims are false."

tant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs), and two Commissioners of Police (CPs), to the rank of Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs). This was contained in a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Press and Public Relations, Mr. Ferdinand Ekpe. The appointment of the acting Inspector General of Police, Mr. Suleiman Abba, led to the retirement of all DIGS that served under the former IGP, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar. The statement reads: "The Police Service Com-

mission has approved the promotion of six Assistant Inspectors – General of Police and two Commissioners of Police to the rank of Deputy Inspectors – General of Police. "The AIGs are Dan’Azumi Job Doma, Mamman Ibrahim Tsafe, David O. Omojola, Solomon E. Arase, Christopher K. Katso and Salihu Argungu Hashidu, while Hilary Opara and Sotonye L. Wakama were promoted from the rank of Commissioner of Police. The promotions are with effect from August 19, 2014.” The Commission also re-affirmed its earlier decision that promotions from the ranks of ACPs to AIGs would only be done after its interviews with the affected officers.

FG, states and LGs share N654.585bn for July Kenneth Tyohemba ABUJA

he Federation Accounts T(FAAC) Allocation Committee yesterday shared

N654.585 billion as revenue for July among the three tier of governments. The July revenue allocation has dipped from N784.886 billion in June to N630.325 billion due to a reduction in company tax collection and shutdowns of trunklines and pipelines at various terminals at Akpo and Bonny terminals. Of the figure, the Federal Government got N247.323 billion, followed by state governments’ N130 billion while local governments got N100.624

billion. The sum of N52.878 billion went to oil-producing states as 13 per cent mineral derivation . Minister of State for Finance, Ambassador Bashir Yuguda, who presided over the session said the allocation was augmented with the sum of $6.2 billion from the Excess Crude Account (ECA), leaving a balance of the $4.155 billion in the ECA. The Value Added Tax (VAT) for July stood at N65.467 billion while the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) refunded N5.6 billion. The sum of N35.459 billion was proposed by FAAC for distribution under SURE-P.

Ebola: Ogun ‘detains’ three Guineans, Nigerian travellers Oluwatosin Omoniyi and Kunle Olayeni ABEOKUTA

wo Guineans and a Nigerian have been "detained" and placed under close monitoring by the Ogun State Government as part of measures to check the spread of Ebola virus disease in the country. The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Olaokun Soyinka, who disclosed this at a press conference in Abeokuta yesterday, said the three travellers were stopped while travelling into Nigeria through an illegal border crossing in Imeko-Afon Local Government area of the state on Friday. Soyinka said though the state remains free of the dreaded virus and that the government was taking serious steps to prevent its spread into the state. According to him, the travellers were coming

from Guinea and were questioned by port health authorities, who alerted the state government. In another development, officials of the National Operation Ebola Centre have disclosed that strong body immunity and rich nutritional value have been identified to help fight antibody radicals such as the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the body system. Speaking during a courtesy visit to the corporate headquarters of New Telegraph in Agidingbi, Lagos, yesterday, they disclosed that the much dreaded Ebola virus was not a death sentence. It is rather a virus that is preventable if reported on time. Dr. Oladoyin Odubanjo, Vice Chairman of the Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter, who led the delegation, said that the essence of the trip was to enlighten the populace about Ebola.

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Okorocha deposes Ilomuanya, endorses new monarch

•It’s an act of executive lawlessness, says Ilomuanya Steve Uzoechi

OWERRI

etermined to unseat the Chairman, South-East Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, as traditional ruler of Obinugwu community, Governor Rochas Okorocha, yesterday issued a certificate of recognition and staff of office to a new traditional ruler for Obinugwu autonomous community, Eze Stanley Simeon Anaezionwu Nwangwu. According to a statement signed by the Senior

Special Assistant on Media, Sam Onwuemeodo, the new Eze replaces Cletus Ilomuanya, who it said, was dethroned recently by the government as the traditional ruler of the autonomous community. Also issued with a certificate of recognition and staff of office was Eze Charles Osuji of Akwakuma autonomous community; in Owerri North Local Government area. Addressing the audience at the event, Governor Okorocha said the people of Obinugwu have been rescued from

700,000

The number of adults and children estimated to be living with HIV in China in 2007. Source: Blatantworld.com

tyranny, undue intimidation and harassment. He said the dethronement of the former monarch was the end of a bad era, while the emergence of the new one, was the beginning of a new era of freedom, peace and unity in Obinugwu. The governor observed that for the purportedly deposed Ilomuanya to still be parading himself as the monarch is an act of impersonation. Okorocha said the new Eze is a manifestation of the truth about the Obinugwu Ezeship

268,680

The total area (in sq. km) of New Zealand. Source: Worldfactsandfigures.com

stool. He stressed that nobody is above the law and that evil must not be encouraged to thrive, stressing that the era of selling the Ezeship stool in Imo State to the highest bidder regardless of the person’s shortcomings has come to an end. The governor regretted that in spite of the removal of Ilomuanya as both the chairman of the state council of traditional rulers and as the Eze of Obinugwu, some security agencies are still aiding him in the perpetuation of illegality. In his vote of thanks, the new traditional ruler of

4.45m

The total population of women in Burundi in 2012. Source: Un.org

L-R: General Manager, GOtv, Elizabeth Amkpa; MultiChoice super dealer, Olokpo Adams Olokpo and Public Relations Manager, GOtv, Efe Obiomah, during the media launch of GOtv in Makurdi, Benue State …yesterday

APC warns DSS against CACOL flays renewed plan bid to arrest Borno chair to impeach Al-Makura Johnchuks Onuanyim

Abuja

he All Progressives ConTiterated gress (APC) yesterday reits warning to the

Department of State Security (DSS) on partisanship, saying that the alleged plan to arrest the Borno State Chairman of the party, Hon. Ali Abubakar Dalori, was capable of causing unrest in the already volatile state. In a statement issued in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said the situation in Borno is already very dire, hence no one should add fuel to a raging fire, simply because of scorched-earth politics. Mohammed said it is becoming glaring that the agency is being compromised under the present political dispensation; it warned the DSS to resist the growing temptation to dabble into politics. The statement reads:“The careless and clearly partisan

statements made by DSS spokesperson, Marilyn Ogar, have shown all discerning Nigerians the direction the agency is leaning. However, it must still exercise great caution in order not to spark a needless crisis in Borno. “We have it on good authority that with the recent movement of Ali Modu Sheriff to the PDP, attempts are being made to destabilise the APC in Borno, using agencies of state like the DSS. The take-off point is the arrest of our chairman in the state on trumped-up charges. “Let those who are seeking to trigger a crisis in Borno know that the people are resolute in their determination to ensure a levelplaying field in the run-up to the 2015 elections. It is curious that the DSS has suddenly unearthed supposed offences committed by Hon. Ali Abubakar Dalori, to warrant his arrest, now that Sheriff has defected to the PDP."

Temitope Ogunbanke he Coalition Against Corrupt Leaders (CACOL) has condemned the renewed plan by the Nasarawa State House of Assembly to impeach the governor of the state, Mr. Tanko Al-Makura. CACOL in a statement by its Executive Chairman, Comrade Debo Adeniran, described the new plot to impeach AlMakura as an act of desperation and therefore enjoined the lawmakers to tread with caution. He said: “Procedure had been followed, they ordered the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Suleiman Dikko, to set up the panel that made enquiry and he did so based on the extant laws, why is it that they want to dictate the pace at which the judicial procedure would go? “They can’t eat their cake and have it. Are they

saying that the portion that says they should set up a judicial panel to investigate the veracity of allegations made against the governor before he is impeached was unnecessary? Or why didn’t they outlaw that portion before they began the procedure? “Now, if they didn’t believe in their own judiciary, why didn’t they make the amendment or why is it that they didn’t outrightly usurp the functions of the judiciary arm of government? There should be separation of powers; there should be checks and balances. “What the judiciary has done was to have checked the excesses of the legislature and that is the role of checks and balances. Separation of power demands that they only have a role to begin the procedure; they cannot carry it out completely.”

Obinugwu, Eze Nwangwu narrated how the Ezeship was forcefully taken away from him and his village that was the right village to produce an Eze about 22 years ago, explaining that most of those involved in the Ezeship tussle then had either died naturally or mysteriously, and thanked God that he was still alive to take back what was taken away from him by force. Reacting, the Media Aide to the embattled Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, Ken-

nedy Eweama, dismissed the new Eze as “an imposter and a non-indigene of Obinugwu.” He said: “This is the height of executive lawlessness. The man Governor Okorocha has desperately handed a staff of office is an indigene of Arondizuogu in Ideato North council area and not Obinugwu in Orlu council area, who deals on scraps in Aba and is suspected to have some mental challenge."

2015: Na’Abba calls for creation of National Guard Yekeen Nurudeen

Abuja

s preparations toward Ations the 2015 general elecgather momentum,

former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ghali Umar Na’Abba, has kicked against the deployment of military personnel during elections. The former speaker, who spoke in Abuja yesterday at a two-day national stakeholders’ summit on gender-based violence against young persons in the country, said the Federal Government should rather create a ‘National Guard’ for the purpose of election as against the use of military personnel. Na’Abba, who was the Speaker of the House of Representatives during the first tenure of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, argued that the military should be left to concentrate on protecting the territorial integrity of the country. He said he has never believed that the military should be used for the purpose of election or any matter except for protecting the territorial integrity of the country.

This was as he urged the Federal Government to begin to put machineries in motion ahead of next year’s elections to curtail the various security challenges confronting the nation. He said: “Well, I have never believed that the military should be used for the purpose of elections and for any other matter, apart from protecting the territorial integrity of the country. “At best, I believe that what must be done is to introduce a National Guard, so that we have a force between the military and the police. The police should continue with their civil responsibilities, while the military should continue with their military responsibilities. “The National Guard should be introduced, so that in cases where internal security is at stake, it will now be the responsibility of the National Guard to intervene.” While responding to questions on security in the country, Hon. Na’Abba blamed the situation on poverty and unemployment, which to him have become national security issues in the country.

Edo pensioners decry unpaid arrears, lack of care Cajetan Mmuta

BENIN

ensioners of the Edo PBrewery State-owned Bendel Limited yester-

day protested the nonpayment of arrears of salaries, gratuities and other entitlements owed them for several years by the state government. The grouse of the members of the Bendel Brewery Limited retired staff was contained in a letter to Governor Adams Oshiomhole, dated August 1, 2014, which was signed by Mr. John Edora, chairman and Mr. Jacob Idiata. The protesting retirees, who stormed the secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), lament-

ed that even in their old age, when their wives are expected to be caring for them despite the challenges; the members have been facing untold hardship, because some of their wives have left them over lack of care. Among the issues raised by the pensioners include the non-payment of their gratuities, salary arrears of seven months and above, unpaid leave, transport grant, spanning three to six year. They also faulted the failure of the government to implement the report of the House of Assembly’s committee, which looked into the petition filed before the legislature by their lawyer, Barrister I. O. Usifo.

NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Group commends TAN Amadi Nnamdi Non-governmental OrAInitiative ganization Goodluck For Transfor-

A block of 13 classrooms at the First African Church Mission Primary School, Iju-Ishaga, built by the state government and commissioned by Governor Babatunde Fashola…yesterday. INSET: L-R: Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye; Governor Babatunde Fashola; Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mrs. Gbolahan Dawodu and others, during the inauguration of the classrooms...yesterday

Obi, Usman, others win award as summit on MDG ends

he two-day Presidential summit at the Transcorps Nicon Hotel, Abuja, on the Millennium Development Goals ended yesterday with a former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi winning the star prize tagged the Award for Mainstreaming the MDGs into Anambra State Development Agenda, 2006-2014. Others that won awards are the Governors of Kebbi State, Alhaji Us-

man Dakingari and that of Bauchi State, Mallam Isa Yuguda for Outstanding Performance on the Implementation of the MDGs. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on the MDGs, Dr. Precious Gbeneol, said that the winners were chosen by an independent panel that looked at the performance of the States in all the indices for measurement. He urged and encouraged other states and governors

INEC assures voters of adequate registration Sola Adeyemo IBADAN

spite of some logistic Ithenchallenges it faced in past few days, the In-

dependent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Oyo state yesterday assured that all registered voters will secure permanent voters cards, just as the Continuous Registration exercise for those without voters cards, as well as those just attaining voting age, ends on Monday. The assurance was given by the INEC's Resident Electoral Commissioner

(REC) for the state, Alhaji Nosiru Ayilara in Ibadan, during a performance appraisal of the commission on the justconcluded distribution of permanent voters’ cards in the various polling units in the state. Though he admitted that some registered voters could not secure the permanent voters cards due to logistic problems, Ayilara stressed that INEC would now carry out its plans in two phases to ensure that all voters in the state secure permanent voters cards before the 2015 general election.

Moni Pulo organises free medical mission oni Pulo Limited, a M foremost indigenous exploration and production company, in partnership with National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS) will hold a 5-day Free Medical Mission in Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. Commenting on the event, the Executive Vice Chairman of Moni Pulo Limited, Mrs. Seinye O. B Lulu-Briggs explained that the Free Medical Mission is part of the company’s robust Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. “The wellbeing and

progress of the people in the communities we work in is very important to us,” she said, adding that a team of seasoned and skilled healthcare professionals will attend to the over 4,000 people who are expected at the outreach.” Every service, from registration to treatment, even surgery, is totally free of charge,” she further explained. The 5-day Free Medical outreach will hold at the Comprehensive Health Centre in the Uruan Local Government Secretariat in Uruan, Akwa Ibom State, from the 18th - 22nd August

to emulate the award-winning ones in their commitment to the MDGs, their states and their people. On the award to Obi , Gbeneol said that though he was no longer the governor, his commitment to the MDGs was unparalleled and complete. She said that under him, Anambra State leveraged and partnered with development partners such as UNICEF, the World Bank, UNDP, the European

Union much as it did with her Office to achieve a lot for the state. Responding on behalf of other awardees, Obi commended the President for his commitment to the MDGs and Gbeneol for seeing that the vision of Mr. President on MDGs was pursued with vigour and total commitment. The Minister of Planning, Dr. Abubakar Sulaiman, reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to projects and partnerships that would contribute to the success of the Transformation Agenda.

Adeyemi launches scholarship board Muhammad Bashir, LOKOJA

enator Smart Adeyemi, representing Kogi West senatorial district in the National Assembly yesterday inaugurated a scholarship board for his senatorial district. The scheme named Senator Smart Adeyemi Western Scholarship

Board, was inaugurated at the children amusement park in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital. Chief Fehinti Dada who inauguarated the interim board on behalf of the senator, said Adeyemi has pledged the sum of N10 million as annual bursary for 200 student from the senatorial axis.

Interactive session on transparency holds today Wale Abiodun n interactive session Analists with investigative jouron transparency

and accountability in the oil sector holds today in Lagos. The programme is put together by HEDA Resource Centre, a Non-Governmental Organisation. In a release made available to New Telegraph yesterday and signed by

its communication/programme officer, Gbolahan Raji, the programme aim at raising the level of awareness of citizens, and mobilise action to press for holistic implementation of the recommendations of oil theft and pipeline vandalism committee established by federal government to probe the rampant reported cases of oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the country.

Ekere urges churches to pray Tony Anichebe, UYO he immediate past DepTIbom uty Governor of Akwa State and a gover-

norship aspirant in the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Nsima Ekere has urged the Church to be unrelenting in prayers for the peace, progress, development and prosperity of the state as transition to new administration beckons.

Speaking yesterday during the reception service for the State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Dr. Cletus Bassey, by the pastorate of Destiny International Mission, Uyo, on the cleric’s elevation to the rank of Archbishop, Mr. Ekere reasoned that Akwa Ibom needed a lot of prayers to be able to move beyond the present level to the envisaged industrial level.

mation, (GIFT) 2015, a frontline Pro-Jonathan campaign organisation, has commended the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) for the success of their solidarity rally for President Goodluck Jonathan in Awka on Saturday. According to the group, the huge turnout & convergence of Nigerians from the South-East to show support for President Jonathan was a true reflection of the wishes of the people of the region for him to continue in office. Speaking to news-

men in Kano yesterday after the launch of their GIFT Northern Youths Empowerment Scheme (GIFT-NYES) initiative, a special programme designed to empower 1 million youths from the rural areas in Northern Nigeria towards self-sustenance while drumming up grassroots support for President Jonathan, the National Coordinator of the organisation, Chinedu Okpalanma, said the organisation was extending its congratulatory message to TAN for organising such a successful event and believes more of such programmes from other organisations in Nigeria is needed at this time to ensure President Jonathan declares.

Monarch seeks help for victims Ibrahim Abdul YOLA

Government and Finederal the committee involved handling the over N50 billion Terror Victims' Fund have been urged to expedite action in utilizing the fund for the purpose intended. The Sardauna of Michika in Adamawa, Alhaji Abubakar Abdullahi made the call in an interview with newsmen in Yola. Abdullahi said the call became necessary in view of the deteriorating condition of the victims, partic-

ularly in Adamawa where many of them are now taking refuge in schools across Michika, Madagali, Hong and Mubi North Local Government areas. "These people are Nigerians and they need urgent help. They have been devastated by the insurgency and apparently there seemed to be no way out." "When you go to various primary schools in Madagali, Uba, Mubi and Michika you will see the victims of the insurgency languishing in abject poverty. No water provided, no food supply or good sanitation", Abdullahi said.

Delta 2015: Group backs Emerhor Gabriel Choba UGHELLI

pressure group known Asives as the Delta ProgresChange Forum

(DPCF) has thrown its weight behind Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, (OON), ahead of the 2015 gubernatorial election in Delta State. In a statement signed by Chairman, Hon. Mudiaga Okorefe, after its general meeting, the group described Emerhor as the only man that can bring dividends of democracy to the grassroots.

The statement reads: “Olorogun Emerhor has all it takes to cater for the needy and further transform the people of Delta state, especially the area of unemployment and underdevelopment. We therefore task all local government coordinators to ensure that they deliver Emerhor in the forthcoming governorship election because we are tired with the PDP system of government in Delta state with their fake and empty promises whereas no meaningful development in the areas”.

Alumni hail Ortom Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

he executive committee Tversity of the Benue State UniAlumni Associa-

tion has commended Minister of State, Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Samuel Ortom for giving employment to graduates of the institution. President of the association, Mr. Stephen Ijoh, made the commendation yesterday when he led members to pay a courtesy call on the minister in Makurdi. Mr. Ijoh stated that the committee came to ex-

press solidarity with the minister’s achievements in the business and political landscape of Benue State especially the employment of youths including alumni in his companies in order to enable them earn a living. He disclosed that the visit was part of plans by the association to mobilize alumnus and other relevant stakeholders to make contributions to the development of the university so that it could join the ranks of institutions rated by the International Standard Organisation.

NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

MASSOB to Umeh: Don’t politicise our struggle Dominic Adewole, ASABA and Wale Elegbede he Movement for the Tereign Actualization of SovState of Biafra

L-R: Editor, Saturday, New Telegraph, Mr. Laurence Ani; first Vice-Chairman, Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria, Lagos chapter, Dr. Oladoyin Odubanjo and Public Health Physician, Nigerian Medical Association/representative on Ebola Emergency Response, Dr. Oluwatoyin Idowu, during a courtesy visit to New Telegraph Headquarters in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

22.5m

The total population of Syria (rep. 0.326% of world’s population) in 2010. Source: Blatantworld.com

91%

The percentage of the total electricity produced from thermoelectric power plants in the US. Source: Unesco.org

The life expectancy (in years) of women at age 60 years in Australia in 2010-2015. Source: Un.org

Orji: Okorocha has acute malaria REACTION

War of words continues as Theodore Orji replies Rochas Okorocha

bia State governor, Chief Theodore Orji has said the opposition All Progressive Congress (APC) does not exist in Abia and so cannot win a polling booth in 2015 general elections. Governor Orji who was reacting to a recent boasting by Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State that APC would take over Abia in 2015, said Okorocha is suffering from acute malaria even as he advised him to seek medical examination. Okorocha who was rep-

resented by his Deputy, Prince Eze Madumere had while addressing a stakeholders' meeting of the South East chapter of APC held in Umuahia said APC would sack PDP from the seat of power in 2015 because "the State's fortunes have dwindled under the watch of PDP - led government". In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Charles Ajunwa, Governor Orji reminded the Imo State Governor that "Imo people are still regretting their mistake of 2011 when he was voted into power under false pretense as a political messiah which he has proved not to be". Governor Orji told Okorocha that most of his policies and programmes which are neither here nor there have rather tak-

en Imo backwards while he parades himself as a progressive leader. "Your rescue mission has failed to rescue Imo and how do you think you can deceive Abians with your political rhetoric and gimmicks? People are now wiser. Your tricks in 2011 cannot work for you again. Stop deceiving yourself. South-East has no space for you and your APC in 2015", he said. The Governor also told Okorocha to "stop wasting Imo resources on his imaginary Vice - Presidential ambition but instead deploy them on projects that will benefit the ordinary man as exemplified in Abia", adding that "very soon, it will dawn on Okorocha that he has travelled deep into a political wilderness accompanied by sycophants who will

soon desert him." He said contrary to Okorocha's propaganda, his PDP - led administration in Abia has posted some undeniable legacy projects across the state which "the likes of Okorocha will never be able to achieve." He therefore, advised the Imo Governor to fight for his political survival as his abysmal performances so far in office has proved him to be a disappointment rather than the messiah he claimed to be. Governor Orji assured that in 2015, PDP would replicate the victory it recorded in 2011 when it was overwhelmingly voted for by the people based on the antecedents of its candidates which they have continued to consolidate on.

LECAN tasks members on professionalism Onah. O. Onah

ONITSHA

n a bid to meet up with the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians, the South East Licensed Electrical Contractors Association of Nigeria (LECAN) has called on its members Nationwide to rise to the challenge of filling the gap in the power sector through professionalism. Addressing members at an award giving ceremony organized by the Anambra branch of the association, the national president, Engineer Otunba Dele Akintola warned his members that his leadership would not take it kindly with anybody or group who compromise their job.

He explained that the new Nigerian Electricity act 2014 has been signed into law and as such, the association has been empowered to inspect and examine every Electrical Installation and issue certificate before it is connected. He added that the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) which controls Enugu, Anambra and Ebonyi State highly appreciates LECAN’s contribution and is keenly watching the activities of association members. “I want to appeal to all of you. We are all stakeholders in power generation and distribution in the country and that is the reason you were licensed

by the Federal Government to partner with her to improve on the power sector in the country. “I therefore want you to assist us to ensure steady Electricity power supply which the president has made a top-most priority of his administration” the president pleaded. “Licensed Electricity Contractors Association of Nigeria is a formidable association established in accordance with the Electricity act cap 57 now cap 106, law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1990 as Amended, to among other things bring the Federal Government Licensed Contractors throughout Nigeria into common front for the protection of Nigerian Electrical Instal-

lation and to ensure that only Licensed Electrical Contractors handles all Electrical Contracts and allied jobs in the country as a means of ensuring standard and reliability in all Electrical Installation for the protection of lives and properties in Nigeria”, he said. On their path, the Anambra branch of the association in an address delivered by the chairman of the organizing committee, Mr. Emeka Enemosah congratulated the governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano and his Deputy Dr. Nkem Okeke for their victory at the appeal court and other laudable achievements in crime prevention and control in Anambra.

(MASSOB) yesterday warned the National Chairman of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Victor Umeh, to stop meddling into the internal affairs of the group. The group also advised him to exclusively border himself with his political career instead of meddling in the affairs of the group in order to adulterate its manifesto. Describing him as “a meddlesome interloper” in Asaba, Delta State, yesterday, the Anioma region of the movement said Umeh erroneously called on the Federal Government to consider granting amnesty to MASSOB members.” According to the group, Umeh’s call was “self-serving” and aimed at boosting his political ego. In a similar development, the leadership of APGA has described as

unfortunate, the statement credited to former Governor of Anambra State, Chief Peter Obi, that but for him, the party would have been extinct in Anambra State.. Mr. Stan Okeke, the Special Assistant (Media) to Umeh debunked the claim, adding that more worrisome is the claims that Obi single-handedly fought his impeachment, sought tenure elongation interpretation and was the shining light of APGA. "It should rather worry Valentine (Obi's spokesman) Obienyem that his boss has never acknowledged that anybody contributed anything in his political sojourn in Anambra State." He said that the good people of Anambra were witnesses to the fact that to the contrary, it was Victor Umeh who saw ex-governor Peter Obi through his 8-year tenure as Governor of Anambra State, recalling that it was Obi who first went to Umeh in 2001 to solicit for his support and not the other way round.

Abia Depuy gov seeks revamp of education Igbeaku Orji UMUAHIA

n order to bridge the Itainment gap in educational atand restore the

lost glory of the South East in education and technology, the South East Economic Summit Group has been urged to produce a functional and practical educational blue print for the region. Abia State Deputy Governor, Emeka Ananaba, threw the challenge yesterday in Umuahia during the stakeholders meeting. The deputy Governor traced the fall in the standard of education in the region to the take-over of schools in the region by the government after the civil war with its attendant fall in morals and standards. He explained that the

state government in order to regain the standard has returned the schools to their original owners, which he said was the reason for the exceptional performance of the state. The state came second after Anambra in 2013 WAEC and NECO performance. He said the state ministry of Education has been mandated to ensure that the state takes the first position in the next assessment period. According to Ananaba, the state government has provided an enabling environment for education to thrive, adding that institutions, religious organizations and individuals have come to establish tertiary institutions in addition to the numerous primary and secondary schools.

Why APGA dissolved exco Steve Uzoechi OWERRI

he chairman of the All Tliance Progressives Grand Al(APGA), Imo state

chapter, Barr. Peter Ezeobi has again defended the recent dissolution of the 27 local government executives in the state insisting that the decision was necessary to ensure that a level playing ground is provided for all the aspirants contesting the party's governorship ticket. Speaking with newsmen in Owerri, the par-

ty chief underscored the need to inject competent hands in some local government executives as well as harmonize other areas where there are parallel executives, so as to reposition the party ahead of its primaries and general elections. He said: "A situation where some aspirants visit some local government areas and will not be received, whereas another aspirant receives wonderful reception will definitely lead the party to nowhere."

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2,500 rendered homeless as fire guts Oko Baba Muritala Ayinla

bout 2,500 were rendered homeless as fire razed Oko Baba Sawmill and other adjoining communities in Mainland Local Government Area of Lagos State. The fire, which started at 9:30pm on Monday and lasted for over eight hours, destroyed many buildings, among them five bungalows and several makeshift structures as well as sawmill spanning large expanse of land. The fire razed both the commercial and residential wings of the sawmill. When our correspondent visited the scene, the fire had been put out but smoke still enveloped the community. Hundreds of residents, bemoaning their loss, were picking what remained of their burnt items. Others, whose properties were partially destroyed, were moving out of the area. Some women, with babies strapped on their back, said they had nowhere to go since their homes and shops had been completely destroyed by the inferno. Burnt heavy sawmill equipment also littered at the scene. Although at press time, nobody could ascertain the exact cause of the fire, some of the residents of the wooden structures near the sawmill, said it emanated from the cluster of the brick buildings. Bemoaning the havoc wreaked by the inferno, they

said that all their means of livelihood had been burnt. It was gathered that among the four fire engines deployed to the scene, only two had water. The development infuriated some of the residents. The Baale of Oko Baba community, Chief Musibau Jinadu, told our correspondent that he had not experienced such disaster since he became the head of the area. He said: “The fire service tried a lot. I left the scene of the fire around 2am. Imagine the number of machines destroyed by the fire. ‘Gedu’ timber has never been burnt like this before. Many generators were destroyed in the inferno. “I have been hearing of fire disasters but this was too much. The fire spread from one street junction to the other; from Cole Street to Kadara and from Kadara Street to Waterfront and to Cold Room Osholake. “Over 2,500 people, excluding the traders here, have been rendered homeless. In each of the burnt homes, there could be four or more people leaving there. “They should not even talk about relocating us to Agbowa. If they do so now, who will vote for them during general elections?” Babatunde Amao, who said the fire had rendered his family homeless, said the residents of the wooden homes community tried in vain to prevent

Bus crushes Michael Okpara varsity student to death Igbeaku Orji Umuahia

commercial bus in the fleet of the Akwa Ibom Transport Corporation yesterday crushed to death a female undergraduate of the Michael Okpara Unive r s i t y o f A g r i c u l t u re, Umudike (MOUAU), at the main entrance of the university. A witness said the accident occur red when the bus heading towards Ikot Ekpene on the ever-busy Umuahia Ikot-Ekpene Road tried to over take a trailer. In the process, it lost control because of the excessive speed, skidded of f the embankment and gutter. It hit the student and crushed her skull. The student, identified as Mi ss C y nthi a Okeb aram from Mbano in Imo State, died instantly. She was said to be standing at the school main gate, prob-

ably waiting to cross the road before the incident occur red. The accident, it was g athered, sparked of f a protest by students of the institution, who destroyed the bus and later set it ablaz e while the driver was said to have fled the scene. The deceased was said to have completed her Diploma in Computer S c i ence and was processing her clearance. T he state Police Public Relations Of ficer (PPRO), A S P G e o f f re y O g b o n n a , confir med the incident, wh i c h h e d e s c r i b e d a s unfor tunate. He said the police had set up re gular traf fic check on the road. T h e M O UAU a u t h o r i ties could not be reached for comment as the PRO was said to be assisting t h e re l at ive s o f t h e l at e student to take her to the mor tuary.

People at the scene of the fire

the fire from spreading to their region. Amao, who was seen carrying his son, denied that the residents attacked the fire service personnel, saying they instead assisted them in putting out the fire. On her part, Lateefah Salako, mother of four, appealed to Governor Babatunde Fashola to come to their aid, saying she had lost both shop and house to the fire. She said: “This is not the matter of Ikosi-Ejirin, we will go to

the place they want to relocate us to but government should please come and assist us first.” The General Manager, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr Femi OkeOsanyintolu, said enumeration and disaster impact assessment was still ongoing. He said that the agency could not clearly value the worth of properties loss and the number of people displaced by the inferno. Osanyintolu, who was represented by Femi Giwa, said over

1,500 wooden houses were severely burnt. He said: “We have commercial wing and residential wing here; almost everything here has been completely burnt. There is a lot of sawmill equipment lost to the fire.” Also speaking on the incident, the South-West spokesman of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ibrahim Farinloye, said the fire also consumed a three-bedroom flat of a two-storey building at 14 Ayoade Street, Bajualiye, Shomolu.

Two arrested for car snatching Taiwo Jimoh olice in Ogun State have Psuspects, ar rested two robbery Ismail Babatunde

(24) and Afeez Omidokun, for allegedly snatching a car at gunpoint. The suspects were arrested yesterday by Federal Highway Patrol team about 6am in Papalanto area of the state. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Muyiwa Adejobi, said men of the Federal Highway Patrol during a stop-and-search at Papalanto area of the state, stopped a Ford jeep with occupants who were young boys. He said: “The document of the jeep was demanded from the suspects and the driver’s licence of the driver was also asked for. But instead of presenting the document and the driver’s licence, one of the occupants bolted, while the others were arrested and questioned about the owner-

ship of the vehicle. “During interrogation, the suspects confessed to have stolen the jeep from the owner at gunpoint on Ifo-Abeokuta Expressway. “When the occupants of the vehicle could not give reasonable explanation about the genuine owner of the vehicle, the two suspects were arrested immediately for questioning.” One of the suspects, Babatunde, told our correspondent that he met one of them who ran away at an Indian hemp joint. He said: “I live very close to the Ifo market. Kunle, who introduced me to the carsnatching business, used to come to the Indian hemp joint in the market to smoke; that was where we met. “I work at a workshop where I repair cars. He asked me to come and help him drive a jeep because he does not know how to drive. That

The suspects.

was how I went with him to Papalanto not knowing that he was going for robbery. “When we got the scene of the crime, when the vehicle appeared, he brought out a gun and pointed it at the driver and asked him to cooperate. We collected the car’s key and drove off. “After we had succeeded in snatching the jeep, Kunle told me to drive towards Sagamu. It was when we were going that the Federal Highway Patrol team stopped us and later arrested the two of us.”

METRO

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Accident claims 20, two die fighting over a girl Uwakwe Abugu Enugu

bout 22 people died in two separate tragic incidents at the Opi Junction-Ehalumona axis of the Ninth Mile-Nsukka Expressway in Enugu. On Monday, two commuter buses collided and killed 20 passengers on that road, with several others injured. Also the same day, two young men allegedly fighting over a girl during a funeral fell into a nearby well and drowned. The incident occurred at Ehalumona town. It was learnt that one of the vehicles involved in the crash with registration number AKL 323 XA belongs to a popular mass transit company. The bus was coming from Enugu when it collided with another bus with registration Number NNE 605 XA returning from the northern part of the country. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ebere Amarizu, confirmed the two incidents. She said that the bodies had been deposited at the morgue of Bishop Shanahan Hospital Nsukka while those injured were receiving treatment at some undisclosed hospitals. Those who died while fighting over a girl were identified as Egbebunbe Alumona (25) and Somadina also 25 years old from the same community.

28-year-old man sleeps with fowl Babatope Okeowo Akure

man identified as Ain28-year-old Ogunole Jelili has been caught Akure, the Ondo State capital sleeping with a fowl. Jelili was earlier driven out of Afo in Ose Local Government Area of the state for allegedly sleeping with a goat. The man confessed that he slept with his neighbour’s fowl but said that he was acting under a spell. According to him, it was about 11.20pm on that fateful day when a spirit just came upon him and he did not know what he was doing again until when he discovered that he had slept with the fowl. A family source said the man had been once accused of sleeping with a lactating goat in his home town, Afo, and that was why he was asked to come and be staying with his elder brother at Continental area of Akure. As at the time of the incident, Jelili was learning welding. Speaking with journalists about the incident, the owner of the fowl, Mrs Stella Akintola, said the incident happened a few minutes past 11pm on that fateful day. She said she had already slept when she heard noise coming from where she kept her fowl. Akintola added that she came outside to see what was happening, then noticed that their exit door was not shut and that was the reason she shouted to know who was still outside. According to her, it was then she saw Jelili outside, who said he had a ‘runny’ stomach.

Desperate Nigerian advertises for job at UK train station

Nigerian based in United Kingdom, Alfred Ajani, has been inundated with offers of interviews after taking a radical approach to job hunting. The 22-year-old graduate, according to Mailonline, has applied for over 300 positions since getting a degree in marketing earlier this summer - but says he has struggled in the crowded graduate labour market. Determined to land his dream job, Ajani decided to hand out CVs to company boss- Waterloo Station, yesterday es commuting into the City of London through Waterloo Station yesterday morning. what I wanted; I am interested He was approached by a in marketing and advertising. businessman after advertising “I realised that there are himself during rush hour at thousands of students out there London’s Waterloo Station. using the same old methods of The Nigerian stood at the en- applying for jobs online and trance to the busy station hold- through recruit ment agening a sign stating: “Marketing cies and so I thought I’d try graduate (BA Hons 2:1 Coventry something different. Uni) Ask for CV.” “I got up early and went to His direct approach received the station. At first people just a warm response from commut- looked at me but after about ers, with many stopping to dis- 10 minutes people started cuss potential positions. stopping and talking. They Ajani, who lives not far from said they’d never seen anything the station, said: “I graduated like it before and were really imin May and have been applying pressed. “One woman worked in adverfor jobs ever since, but it is very tising and took a CV and another difficult at the moment. “The only ones that have guy ran back from his train and come up have not really been said he’d walked past but had

Ajani at the station

started thinking and might have something for me. “I have already had some phone calls and have got an interview booked for later today. The support was great; one man even bought me a cup of tea and told me ‘good luck’.” Thousands of commuters pile through Waterloo every morning on their way to business hub, the City of London. Ajani has worked as a waiter while studying and has taken positions as an intern in the music industry in a bid to boost his job prospects. He asked friends to help him hand out his CVs, but thinks they were put off by the early start. A photo of him giving his

phone number to a passing commuter circulated on Twitter yesterday morning, with website users offering their support. After seeing the photo, one Twitter user wrote: “Good on him for putting himself out there!! Time waits for no man!! Love it!!” Another added: “It is a good idea. I would have hired him into my business straight away if I saw him.” Olympic medallist Kelly Sotherton retweeted the photo, and motivational speaker Gavin Ingham wrote: “He will no doubt get interviews and offers whilst others sit at home moaning. Good on him.”

100 years after, African Church inaugurates Akure diocese Babatope Okeowo Akure

fter 100 years of existence, the African Church of Nigeria has inaugurated a diocese in Akure, the Ondo State capital. The diocese, known as Ondo Central Diocese, was the third in the state, coming after those of Oka and Akoko/ Idoani, according to the leadership of the church, will take care of Akure, Owo and Ondo and its environments. Speaking after the inauguration of the diocese at

Ebenezer African Church in Akure, the Primate of the Church, Rev Emmanuel Josiah Udofia, said the church had not outlawed the shaking of hands in the church during service in order to prevent the spread of the dreaded Ebola virus. He, however, said the church had banned any other type of body contact during service in order to check the spread of the virus. Udofia, who said that God is the protector of everybody, added that it would not be in the interest of Christianity to

outlaw ‘sign of peace’ and the laying of hands on the sick in order to heal them because of the Ebola virus. He said: “I agree to reduction of bodily contact. We have to regulate our practice, we are not saying we are not under the protection of God, we should protect ourselves.” On the use of cup during communion service, Udofia said there was cup for every member of the church adding that to prevent unforeseen circumstances, church should buy disposable cups. On its own part, the state

government unfolded plans to enact cremation law as part of plans to check the spread of Ebola. Governor Olusegun Mimiko, who spoke after the inauguration, predicted that the dreaded Ebola virus would end in the country within the next two months. He said: “If a person dies of Ebola, the corpse is even more dangerous than when he was alive. Ondo State is about to enact law that would empower government to cremate bodies suspected to be infected with Ebola.”

Mechanic in court for ‘Ogun agro-cargo airport will boost economy’ N300,000 theft he proposed Agro-Cargo Airport proj- agro-allied, real estate, transportation etc. T ect in Remo area of Ogun State will har- will thrive.” 35-year-old mechanic, Saidi Aremu, yes- ness the economic potential of the people. Adebutu, a House of Representatives asA chieftain of the Labour Party in Ogun pirant for Remo Federal Constituency on the AMagistrates’ terday appeared before a Surulere Chief Court, Lagos, for allegedly State, Hon. Ladi Adebutu, said this during platform of Labour Party, urged the people to stealing N300,000 cash. The accused, who resides at No. 2, Irapada Street, Itire, is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing. Aremu, however, pleaded not guilty. The prosecutor, Inspector Gabriel Ekundayo, told the court that the accused and one Ayinde Aro, now at large, committed the offences between June 2013 and January this year. He said that the accused was given a car by one Mr Emmanuel Amaechi to sell and return proceeds to him. Ekundayo said that the accused sold the car at N300,000 and made away with the money. He said that the offences, which were committed at No. 2, Adegunwa Street, Aguda, Surulere, contravened sections 285 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State. The Magistrate, Mrs O. N. Ojuromi, granted the accused bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum. She adjourned the case till September 10 for mention.

the inauguration of Ward 5 secretariat of the party in Ilara Remo, recently. He said: “The Cargo Airport which was conceptualised by former Governor Gbenga Daniel’s administration is a project that will harness the economic potential of the people of the host and neighbouring communities as various businesses, such as hospitality,

Women Leader, Labour Party, Ogun State, Alhaja Mujidat Ogunnaike, cutting the tape to inaugurate the Ward 3 Secretariat at Isara-Remo, Ogun State.

ensure they register during the forthcoming voters’ registration exercise. He also appealed to the people to vote for Labour Party in the 2015 general elections in order to guarantee a politics of inclusion, where everyone would be regarded and treated as a stakeholder, and most importantly, when laudable projects such as the Cargo Airport would become realisable. Party secretariats were also inaugurated at Isara wards 1, 2 and 3, while Plasma Television sets, DSTV systems and generators donated by the Ladi Adebutu Democratic Organisation (LADO) were unveiled at the various secretariats. Earlier, the team had visited Sagamu Local Government Area to perform similar exercise at wards 1 (Epe); 2 (Ipoji); 3 (Ayegbami); 11 (Ojumele/Makun) and 15 (Agbowa). The donor, Adebutu, implored party executives to see to the proper maintenance of the items donated which, according to him, are meant to educate, inform and entertain viewers.

12 NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Ebola: Stakeholders fault FG over shift in school resumption date Mojeed Alabi takeholders in the education sector, especially in Lagos State, have strongly condemned the directive by the Federal Government that both primary and secondary schools nationwide should remain closed until further notice pending when government will be satisfied that the dangerous Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) that is currently on rampage in the country has been put under control. Speaking with New Telegraph yesterday, parents, representatives of education-related organisations and particularly private school owners, were unanimous in their condemnation of the directive, saying

such was not the required measure to stem the spread of the disease. Recall that the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Youth and Students Matters, Comrade Jude Imagwe, last week announced the directive in Abuja while speaking at a one-day forum on Tertiary Institutions Students Health Insurance Programme, organised by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). He said no resumption date has been announced as the extension is to hold till further notice. In his reaction, the immediate past Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the National Associa-

tion of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) and Founder of Lord’s Victory International College, Ikorodu, Prince Ayo Shonubi, while appreciating the efforts of the Federal Government at safeguarding the lives of Nigerian children, insisted that preventing schools from resumption cannot in anyway curtail the spread of the disease. He said the Federal Government should rather focus on enlightenment campaigns and the reorientation of the people about the dreaded virus. Also, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Association for Formidable Educational Development (AFED), Mr. Abiodun Owolana, accused the Federal Government of taking wrong steps

at wrong times. He said the Lagos State government has pledged its commitment to deal with the situation appropriately and that it has shown evidence of its capability by rising to the occasion to offer sound medical services to those affected by the disease so far. He said: “I think the Federal Government is only overreacting, because if you say schools should not reopen because you want to avoid contacts among pupils, are they not going out on holidays? Are their parents not going out? Would they be barred from going to religious centres too? These are questions government needs to answer except it is only interested in crippling the sector.”

Minister launches scheme to control flood Obinna Odoh

Abuja

Federal Government TtalhehasFlood launched a DigiModel to help

in overcoming the effect of flood disasters in the country. Minister of Environment, Mrs. Laurentia Laraba, yesterday in Abuja, during the public presentation and launch of the National Digital Flood Model, observed that the event is to mark government’s efforts and continuous commitment to managing flood disaster and its devastating effect in Nigeria. The minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Rabi Jimeta, said the National Digital Flood Model is developed to improve flood monitoring and forecast nationwide

to ensure effective environmental governance and prompt response to impending flood disaster. Laraba noted that the approach is non-structural, but a scientific development that is meant to reduce the increased flood incidences that have greatly contributed to loss of lives and property. She said: “The effects of the 2012 flood are still fresh in our mind, it has been reported that total value of physical and durable assets destroyed and losses recorded across all sectors of economic activity were enormous. “It is imperative to note that to the National Digital Model is specifically developed for improved flood monitoring and forecast nationwide to ensure effective environmental governance and prompt response to impending flood disaster."

Gaya storms Kano with 50 campaign cars Muhammad Kabir

KANO

of the aspirants to the Oseat,neKanoSenator State governorship Ibrahim Kab-

L-R: Assistant Secretary General/Special Adviser on Post-2015 Development Planning, Magnus Kpakol; Amina Mohammed; former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obia and Dr. Bright Okogu, shortly after Obi received an Award for Mainstreaming the MDGs into Anambra State Development Agenda, 2006-2014 by the MDGs Office in Abuja…yesterday

The life expectancy at birth (in years) of men in Georgia in 2010-2015. Source: Un.org

320,683

The total number of air travel passengers of Owerri airport in 2012. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

24.26m

The total population of Yemen (rep. 0.35% of world’s population) in 2010. Source: Blatantworld.com

PDP chides Fayemi over non-payment of workers’ salaries

•Paucity of funds responsible, says state govt Adesina Wahab

Ado-Ekiti

kiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday decried the non-payment of the July salaries of local government workers and teachers by the Ekiti State government, saying that it is wicked to deny workers their wages. In a statement in Ado-Ekiti yesterday by the Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Oluwawole, the party noted that the action by the Governor Kayode Fayemi administration has vindicated its stance that the APC administration lacked human feelings. He also said that the delay in the payment of the workers’ salaries was a deliberate

action aimed at punishing the workers for not voting for Fayemi in the June 21 governorship election. “Our candidate, the Governor-elect, Ayo Fayose, defeated Fayemi squarely in the election by winning in all the 16 local governments and all segments of the society, including civil servants, who all rejected Fayemi and the APC at the poll. “Fayemi has decided to punish those he perceived did not vote for him in the election, among whom were local government workers and teachers. He should let the people of the state know what is delaying the payment of the salaries of these people. “He had money to pay his political appointees

and even sent money to his illegally-created local council development areas. Fayemi should pay these workers without further delay,” he said. Oluwawole added that it was obvious that Fayemi was on vengeance mission by his silence on the unpaid workers’ salaries since July, saying that the outgoing governor did not only keep the workers in abeyance, but was said to have even boasted that he would 'show them pepper' before he leaves office in October. But in his reaction, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Mr Tayo Ekundayo, blamed the development on paucity of funds. "We have paid all the

civil servants except the local government workers that we are owing July salary. We have never owed workers salary despite paucity of fund. "This thing happened because of the meddling of the Peoples Democratic Party in the affairs of the state. "We used to obtain facilities from banks to settle salary in the past pending when we will receive allocation, but the PDP advised banks not to deal with us. "The banks thereby became circumspect in dealing with us. The meddling is not in the interest of the state, otherwise we would have paid all the workers. It is the PDP that should be blamed."

iru Gaya, yesterday took steps to realise his ambition of ruling the state, when he bought 50 campaign cars to be used by his campaign officers for the 2015 governorship election. His action has raised the stake, making others interested in the position feel threatened. The campaign cars painted with Gaya’s portrait and inscription titled; “Gaya 2015,” were seen virtually in all the nooks and crannies of the state, moving in convoys and were occupied by his supporters shouting, ‘Kano sai Gaya.’ Already tongues have started wagging in Kano that; “For Kabiru Gaya, this time around, it is a fight to

finish,” because this is somebody who governed the state in the 1990s and believes that his tenure was cut short by the then administration at the centre. Gaya, who sometimes ago declared his intention to contest the exalted position, told his longtime supporters, whom he said he maintained right from his first tenure in 1991, that he is the best thing to have happened to the state, because of his vast experience and belief in a greater Kano. He said for almost 20 years, he has done a lot to make Kano great and that he has never been found wanting in any way. The senator, who also plans to open his campaign office this week, told various political groups that his contest is not for any single individual or persons, but for the general wellbeing of the people.

South-South group garners support for Jonathan Wale Abiodun he League of SouthT(LSSN) South Nationalities yesterday ex-

pressed support for President Goodluck Jonathan’s 2015 presidential ambition. According to a statement made available to New Telegraph in Lagos, and signed by the group’s National Coordinator, Mr. Victor Mathew, the endorsement was as a result of Jonathan’s humble disposition, which the league sees as a unique selling point for his candidature. “Jonathan’s humble disposition is a unique selling

point for his candidature, Nigeria is the second most preferred investment destination in Africa, and the transformation agenda of Mr. President has made deep and serious changes in our economy,” the group said. According to the group, they are in support of President Jonathan’s second term ambition, because the industrial revolution has witnessed the first Made-in-Nigeria car, they also argued that the current administration has opened up the political space even for the opposition to thrive.

Suspense in Enugu over NASS members’ fate / PAGE 40 | Ekiti’s new LCDAs: Landmines or development catalysts? / PAGE 42

POLITICS

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ayodele Ojo

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WEDNESday, August 20, 2014

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has come under heavy attack over its ultimatum to President Goodluck Jonathan to produce abducted chibok schoolgirls within 60 days or forfeit his re-election bid in 2015. LATEEF IBRAHIM reports

My papacy, life and the world, by Pope Francis

p-14, 15

Chibok girls: Knocks for northern elders

ith barely seven months to the 2015 general election, the political scenario is getting more interesting and intriguing. The political climate is changing and the key political players too are not relenting, as they are not leaving anything to chances. Attention, no doubt, will be focused more on the presidential election than the remaining ones put together. This can be understood considering the importance of the office and the various interests in same. Although the President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has not formally confirmed that he would be contesting the 2015 presidential election, his body language speaks volume. The messages coming from his foot soldiers have clearly shown that he would be contesting the election. The various clamours, from his supporters and admirers can also not be wished away easily. It was therefore not surprising when, few days ago, the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), an umbrella body for some elders in the North, gave President Jonathan an ultimatum within which to either produce the more than 200 schoolgirls who were abducted about four months ago from a secondary school in Chibok, Borno State, by the members of the insurgent group, Boko Haram. The NEF specifically gave the President up till October this year to produce the abducted Chibok secondary schoolgirls or forget his re-election bid. The NEF led by respected elder statesman, Alhaji Sule Maitama at a press conference in Kaduna, pointed out that that the ultimatum became necessary in view of the firm conviction of the Forum that the insurgency, caused by the Boko Haram sect and other related security challenges in the land pose a threat to the 2015 elections and the survival of the nation. However, in a quick move, which was suggestive of the fact that the position of the NEF may not have represented a consensus opinion of the Northern elders, another group, under the aegis of the Northern Elders Council (NEC) rejected the ultimatum issued to the President, as they hit hard at NEF over its criticism of Jonathan’s war against terrorism, insurgency and efforts to rescue the over 200 schoolgirls abducted by the Boko Haram in Chibok. NEC, which has Ambassador Yusuf Mamman, a delegate to the recently concluded National Conference in Abuja and former National Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) as its spokesman, in a tacit support for the ongoing war against terror in the North East, dismissed the NEF’s pronouncements, describing it as the utterances

Jonathan

Sule

of rabble rousers. Mamman posited strongly that the Federal Government deserved commendation for the efforts it had made so far on the war against the insurgents, particularly after Jonathan met with members of the Council of States and agreed that insurgency would be over by the end of the year. Also, the pan Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, equally frowned at the stand by the NEF, pointing out that by linking the electoral fortune of President Jonathan in 2015 to “Bring Back Our Girls” latest by October as well as ending Boko Haram at the time, the elders have just confirmed the suspicions in the land that the activities of Boko Haram is either enjoying the sponsor-

ship of some elites of the North or at the least having their sympathy. NEF had at its press conference in Kaduna, which was addressed by Mr. Solomon Dalung, a former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, lamented the circumstances under which the people of Gwoza in Borno state live as if there is no government, describing the situation as unacceptable. According to NEF, “The lack of a strong will at the level of the presidency to fight it, as well as deep-seated corruption and incompetence in governments and in the management of our security challenges has allowed a band of terrorists to take and hold vast parts of our land and population hostage, while every citizen lives in fear that they will

CROSSFIRE The police have observed with dismay that some political office holders have begun flouting the earlier ban under the guise of local government familiarisation tours or courtesy visits... -Tunde Ogunsakin

We’re worried about the tone of the statement….We would wish to respectfully request Ogunsakin to be even handed in his caution and ensure that what is good for the goose is also good for the gander -Ibim Semenitari

be its next victim. “The NEF does not believe that the Nigerian military cannot defeat these terrorists. We also reject the notion that multiple internal security challenges such as attacks on villages, ethno-religions conflicts and banditry springing up by the day in many parts of the north are all a coincidence. “Indeed, we are convinced that most of these conflicts are being engineered to weaken the North politically and economically by interests which intend to exploit such weaknesses for electoral benefits.” “The reality is that the threats posed by what appears to be an insurgency that has many manifestations and defies a clear and consistent identity is growing due to the absence of a clear national consensus over its nature, and it solutions,” it said. The Forum, while blaming what it called “the attitudes of past northern leaders for the insecurity and the economic woes of the region because of their inability to reverse the dangerous trends that have befallen the north,” pointed out that it was no more a secret that the vast majority of Northerners lament their marginalisation, insecurity and poverty, and blame it, to a large extent, on the inability and unwillingness of its past and present leaders to CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

14 INTERVIEW Pope Francis, in an interview with journalists on the papal plane on the return flight to Rome from South Korea, spoke on his papacy, the situation in Iraq and also addressed topics ranging from peace efforts between Israel and Palestine, future papal visits, to his personal schedule, relationship with Benedict XVI and life at the Vatican. Here is the transcript of the interview as obtained from the Catholic News Agency In the name of the Korean journalists and our people, I wish to thank you for your visit. You have brought happiness to many people in Korea and thank you for your encouragement for the education of our country. Holy Father, during your visit to Korea, you have reached out to the family of victims of the Sewol ferry disaster and consoled them. Two questions: One, what did you feel when you met them? Two, were you not concerned your actions could be misinterpreted politically? When you find yourself in front of human sorrow, you do what your heart brings you to do. Today, they will say, ‘oh, he’s done this because he has political intention,’ or that other thing. But you can say anything. But, you think about these men and women, mothers and fathers, who lost their children. Brother and sisters who have lost brothers and sisters…to the great sorrow of such a catastrophe. My heart…I’m a priest, you know, and being able to come close like that is the first thing. I know that the consolation I can give with a word of mine isn’t a remedy, it doesn’t give new life to their dead but the in these moments human proximity gives us strength. There is solidarity. I remember that, as archbishop of Buenos Aires, I lived two of these catastrophes. One, was a dance hall where you could hear pop music, 193 died (he refers to Cromagnon disco). And then, another time a catastrophe with a train. I think 120 died. In that time, I felt the same, to come close to make them strong. And if we in these sad moments come close to each other, we help each other so much. And then on the other question and then I’d like to say something more. I put this on (the yellow lace from the victims’ relatives). After half a day of wearing it, I took it on for solidarity with them, eh. Someone came up and said, it’s better to take it off, eh. You must be neutral (there is a controversy about the responsibility of the tragedy: relatives of victims have touched on government corruption which led to building a ship with subpar material). But, listen with human sorrow you can’t be neutral. It’s what I feel. Thanks for this question. Thanks. As you know, not long ago the U.S. military forces have started bombing terrorists in Iraq to prevent a genocide. To protect the future of the minorities, I think also of the Catholics under your guidance, do you approve of this American bombing (campaign)? Thanks for such a clear question. In these cases where there is an unjust aggression, I can only say that it is licit to stop the unjust aggressor. I underscore the verb “stop.” I don’t saying to bomb or make war, (but) stop it. The means with which it can be stopped should be

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Wednesday, August 20, 2014

My papacy, life and evaluated. To stop the unjust aggressor is licit. But we also have to have memory, as well, eh. How many times under this excuse of stopping the unjust aggressor the powers have taken control of nations. And, they have made a true war of conquest. One single nation cannot judge how you stop this, how you stop an unjust aggressor. After the Second World War, there was the idea of the United Nations. It must be discussed there and said ‘there’s an unjust aggressor, it seems so “How do we stop it?” Only that, nothing more. Secondly, the minorities. Thanks for the word because they speak to me of the Christians, poor Christians – it is true, they suffer – and the martyrs – and yes, there are so many martyrs – but here there are men and women, religious minorities, and not all Christian and all are equal before God, no? Stopping the unjust aggressor is a right that humanity has but it is also a right of the aggressor to be stopped so he doesn’t do evil. As Cardinal Filoni and the Dominican superior Bruno Cadoré, would you be ready to support a military intervention against the jihadists in Iraqi territory? Another question, do you think of someday being able to go to Iraq, maybe to Kurdistan to sustain the Christian refugees and pray with them in the land where they’ve lived for 2000 years? Thank you. I have been not long ago with the governor of Kurdistan. He had a very clear thought on the situation and how to find a solution but it was before these last aggressions. And the first question I have responded to. I am only in agreement in the fact that when there is an unjust aggressor that he is stopped. Sorry, I forgot about that. Yes, I am available but I think I can say this. When we heard with my collaborators this situation of the religious minorities and also the problems in that moment of Kurdistan which couldn’t receive so many people. It’s a problem. It’s understood. They couldn’t, right? It can’t be done and we’ve thought of so many things. We wrote first of all a communique that Fr. Lombardi wrote in my name. Then, this statement was sent out to all of the nunciatures so that it might be communicated to the governments. Then, we sent a letter to the secretary general of the United Nations. And so many things and in the end we said, eh, sending a personal envoy (who was) Cardinal Filoni. And in the end we have said, and if it were necessary when we return from Korea we can go there. It was one of the possibilities. This was the response. And in this moment, I am ready and right now it isn’t the most, the best thing to do but I am disposed for this. You were the first pope to fly over China. The telegram that you sent to the Chinese

Our relationship is one of brothers, truly, but I’ve said that it’s like having a grandfather at home for the wisdom. He has a wisdom with his nuances and it does me well to hear. He encourages me a lot. This is the relationship we have

Pope Francis

president was received without negative comments. Are we passing on to a possible dialogue and would you like to go to China? When we were about to enter into Chinese airspace I was in the cockpit with the pilot. One of them, showed me the registry. Anyway, he said, there were 10 minutes left before entering Chinese airspace. We have asked for authorisation. You always ask. ‘Is it normal to ask for permission in every nation? Yes.’ I heard how they asked authorisation and how they responded. I was a witness to this. Then the pilot said, now we send the telegram. But I don’t know how they will have done it by like that. So, then I said goodbye to them and went back to my seat and I prayed a lot for that beautiful and noble Chinese people. A wise people. I think of the great Chinese sages, a history of science and knowledge. Also we Jesuits have a history there, also Father (Matteo) Ricci. And, all these things came up to my mind. Do I have a wish to go? Certainly, tomorrow. Yes. We respect the Chinese people. It’s just that the Church ask for

freedom for its role and for its work. This is another condition. But, do not forget that fundamental letter for the Chinese problem which was the letter sent to the Chinese by Pope Benedict XVI. That letter today is current. Rereading it is good for you. The Holy See is always open to being in contact, always, because it has a real esteem for the Chinese people. The next trip will be Albania, then maybe Iraq and the Filippines and Sri Lanka. But where will you go in 2015? I’ll tell you also just in case, you know that in Avila and Alba de Tormes there are so many expectations, can they still hope? Yes, yeah. The madam president of Korea in perfect Spanish told me “hope is the last thing to go.” That’s what she said. Hoping for the unification of Korea, no. That’s what she told me. We can hope, no? But it has not been decided... And after Mexico? Now I’ll explain. This year, Albania is planned. Some say that the Pope has a style of starting things from the peripheries. But, I’m going to Albania for

INTERVIEW 15

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

the world, by Pope Francis United Nations in New York. Maybe the three cities together, no? Mexico. The Mexicans would like me to go to Our Lady of Guadalupe. And we could take advantage of that, but it’s not certain. And then Spain. The monarchs have invited me. And the episcopate has invited me. But it’s raining invitations to go to Spain, also Santiago di Compostela. But maybe, and I won’t say more, because it isn’t decided, to go in the morning to Avila and Alba de Tormes and return in the afternoon. It would be possible, yes, but it’s not decided. And this is the response. Thank you. What type of relationship is there between you and Benedict XVI? Is there an habitual exchange of opinions and ideas? Is there a common project after this encyclical? We see each other. Before leaving I went to see him. He, two weeks prior, had sent me an interesting text and he asked me an opinion. We have a normal relationship because I go back to this idea and maybe a theologian doesn’t like it. But, I think that the pope emeritus is not an exception. After so many centuries, he’s the first emeritus and let’s think that if I am aged and don’t have the strength, but it was a beautiful gesture of nobility and also humility and courage. But, I think that 70 years ago also the bishops emeritus were an exception. They didn’t exist. Today, the bishops emeritus are an institution. I think that the pope emeritus is already an institution. Why? Our lives are getting longer and at a certain age there is not the capacity to govern well, because the body tires and health perhaps is good but there is the capacity to carry forward all of the problems like those in the governance of the church. I think that Pope Benedict made this gesture of popes emeritus. I repeat that maybe some theologian would say this isn’t just, but I think like this. The centuries will tell if it’s like this or not, we’ll see, but if you can to say to me, ‘but do you think that one day if you don’t feel like it, will you go on?’ But, I would do the same. I would do the same. I will pray, but I would do the same. He opened a door that is institutional not exceptional. And our relationship is one of brothers, truly, but I’ve said that it’s like having a grandfather at home for the wisdom. He has a wisdom with his nuances and it does me well to hear. He encourages me a lot. This is the relationship we have. two important reasons. First, because they were able to make a government – and let’s think of the Balkans, eh – a government of national unity among Muslims, Orthodox and Catholics with an inter-religious council that has helped a lot and is balanced. And this is good it is harmonized it. The presence of the Pope to all peoples… but you can work well, eh. I’ve that it could be a true aid to that noble people. I’ve also thought of the history of Albania, which of all the nations in the former Yugoslavia was the only one that in its constitution had the practical atheism. If you went to Mass, it was unconstitutional. And then, one of their ministers told me that - and I want to be precise in the number – 1820 churches were destroyed, orthodox and catholic, in that time. And then other churches were made into cinemas and others dance halls. I felt like I needed to go. It’s close, done in a day. Next year, I would like to go to Philadelphia for the encounter of families. I was also invited by the president of the United States to the American congress and by the secretary general of the

Your Holiness, Pope Francis, first of all many thanks for this first visit to Asia. During this visit, you met people who have suffered. What did you feel when you greeted the seven ‘comfort women’ at mass this morning. And regarding the suffering of people, as in Korea there were hidden Christians in Japan and next year will be the 150th anniversary of their coming out (after years of hiding). Would it be possible to pray for them together with you in Nagasaki? Thanks. It would be wonderful. I was invited, eh, both by the government and the episcopate I was invited. But suffering. You go back to one of the first questions. The Korean nation is a people that has not lost its dignity. It was a people invaded and humiliated, it has gone through wars and been divided with so much suffering. Yesterday, when I went to the encounter with young people, I visited the museum of the martyrs there. It’s terrible the suffering of these people. Simply to not step on the cross. It’s a pain, an historical suffering. It has the capacity to suffer this nation and also this is a part of its dignity. Also today, when there were these elderly ladies in front at Mass. Think that

One of my neuroses is that I’m too attached to life. The last time I took a vacation outside of Buenos Aires with the Jesuit community was in 1975. But then, I always take holidays. Truly, eh. But at home. I sleep more. I read book that I like. I listen to music. I pray more during that invasion they were girls taken away to the police stations to be taken advantage of. And they haven’t lost their dignity. They were there today showing their faces. These elderly women, the last of them who remain. It’s a people strong in their dignity. But going back to martyrdom and suffering, also these women are the fruits of war. Today, we are in a world of war. Everywhere. Someone told me, ‘you know father that we’re in the third world war, but in pieces.’ He understood this, no? It is a world in war where they commit these cruelties. I would like to speak about two words. First, cruelty. Today, children don’t count. Once they spoke of ‘conventional warfare.’ Today this doesn’t count. I’m not saying that the conventional war is a good thing, but today the bomb goes and kills the innocent with the culpable with the child and the women and mother. They kill everyone. But, we need to stop and think a bit about what level of cruelty we have reached. This should scare us. And, this is not to create fear. We could make an empirical study. The level of cruelty today of humanity is a bit scary. Another word on which I would like to say something in relation with this is torture. Today, torture is one of the almost ordinary means of acts of intelligence services, of judicial processes. And, torture is a sin against humanity. It is a crime against humanity. And, to Catholics I say that torturing a person is a mortal sin. It is a grave sin. But, it’s more. It’s a sin against humanity. Cruelty and torture. I would really like it if you in your media were to make a reflection of how you see these things today, how is the level of cruelty of humanity and what you think of torture. I think it would do us all well to think about this. Our question is you have a very, very difficult routine. With very little rest and little vacation and you make these hard trips. And then in the last few months we’ve also seen that you’ve had to cancel some appointments and an event. Should we be concerned about the rhythm you carry? Yes, some have told me this. I took my holidays at home as usual. Once I read a book and it’s interesting. The title was “Be happy to be neurotic.” I’ve also got some neuroses. But you have to treat neuroses well, eh. Give them “mate” (an Argentine tea) every day, no? (laughs) One of my neuroses is that I’m too attached to life. The last time I took a vacation outside of Buenos Aires with the Jesuit community was in 1975. But then, I always take holidays. Truly, eh. But at home. I sleep more. I read book that I like. I listen to music. I pray more. In July and a part of August I did this and it was good (for

me). The other part of the question, it’s true that I’ve had to cancel. That is true. The day I had to go to Gemelli Hospital. 10 minutes before. That there, I just couldn’t do it. They were certain very busy days. But I need to be more prudent, you’re right. In Rio, when the crowd yelled “Francesco, Francesco!” you responded “Cristo, Cristo!” Today, how do you manage this immense popularity? How do you live it? I don’t know how to tell you. I live it thanking the Lord that his people are happy. I really do that, hoping the best for the people of God. I live it as generosity towards the people. On the inside, I try to think of my sins and my errors not to flatter myself because I know it won’t last long. Two or three years and then (makes a sound and gesture) up to the house of the Father. It’s not wise to believe this. I live it as the presence of the Lord in his people who uses his bishop, the shepherd of the people to do so many things. I live it more naturally than before. Before I was a bit scared. Also, it comes to mind not to make errors because you can’t do wrong for the people and all these things. For the Pope who came from the ends of the world and found himself in the Vatican, beyond Saint Martha Residence where you have your life and your choice (to live there)? How does the pope live within the Vatican? They always ask us this, but how does he move around? Does he take walks? You go to the cafeteria… This is surprising. So, what type of life do you have beyond that of St. Martha? I try to be free. There are appointments of the office, of work. But my life for me is the most normal that I could have. Truly, I would love to be able to leave but you can’t…You can’t because if you go out the people come so you can’t and that’s a reality. But there inside in the St Martha, I have a normal life of work and rest and chatting. I have a normal life. Don’t you feel imprisoned, then? No, no, at the beginning yes. Now some of the walls on the inside have come down. Which are the walls that have come down? I don’t know, the Pope can’t… For example, to have a laugh. One goes to the elevator, someone comes because the Pope can’t go down in the elevator alone. But, go back to your post because I’m going down alone! That’s how it is. It’s normality. It’s a normality. Holy Father, sorry for this but I have to ask you as part of the Spanish group from Argentina. I’m going to ask you a question that will exhibit your knowledge. Your team for the first time is the champion of America. I would like to know how you’re living it, how you found out. They tell me that one of the delegation is coming Wednesday and you’re going to receive him during the general audience. It’s true that this is the greatest piece of news after the second place (of the Argentine national team) in Brazil. I found out here. In Seoul they told me. Listen, on Wednesday they’re coming, eh. They’re coming. And, it’s a public audience. For me, San Lorenzo is the team for which all of my family were fans. My father played basketball for San Lorenzo. He was a player on the basketball team. And when we were kids, we went and my mom came with us to the Gasometro (San Lorenzo stadium). I remember today the season of 1946. A magnificent team that San CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

16 INTERVIEW

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

‘My relationship with Pope Emeritus’ CO N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 5

Lorenzo had. They came out champions. I live it with joy. Is it a miracle? Miracle? No. (Laughs) Miracle, no. Holy Father, they have long spoken of an encyclical on ecology. Can you tell us when it will be released? And, which are the central points? This encyclical. I’ve spoken a lot with Cardinal Turkson and also with others and I have asked Cardinal Turkson to bring together all of the contributions. They arrived. And the week before the trip, no, four days before he delivered the first draft to me. The first draft is this big (gestures). I’d say it’s a third bigger than Evangelii Gaudium. And that’s the first draft. Now, it’s not an easy issue because on the protection of creation and the study of human ecology, you can speak with sure certainty up to a certain point then come the scientific hypotheses some of which are rather sure, others aren’t. In an encyclical like this that must be magisterial, it must only go forward on certainties, things that are sure. If the Pope says that the centre of the universe is the earth and not the sun, he errs because he says something scientific that isn’t right. That’s also true here. We need to make the study, number by number, and I think it will become smaller. But going to the essence is what we can affirm with certainty. But, you could say in the notes, in the footnotes, that this is a hypotheses and this and this. To say it as an information, but not in the body of the encyclical which is doctrinal and needs to be certain. Thank you so much for your visit to South Korea. I’m going to ask you two questions. First one is: just before the final mass at the Myeong-dong Cathedral, you consoled the comfort women there. What thought came to you? That’s my first question and my second question is Pyongyang sees Christianity as a direct threat to its regime and its leadership and we know that something terrible happened to North Korean Christianity but we don’t know exactly what happened. Is there special effort in your mind to change North Korea’s approach to Christianity? The first question. I repeat this. Today, these women were there because despite all they have suffered they have dignity and they showed their faces. I have thought also about what I’ve said a little bit ago about the sufferings of war, the cruelty brought by a war. These women were taken advantage of, enslaved, but they are all cruelties. I thought of all of this. The dignity they have and also how much they’ve suffered. Suffering is an inheritance. We say…The first fathers of the Church say that the blood of the martyrs is the seed of Christians. The Koreans have planted a lot. A lot. For coherence, no? You now see the fruit of that planting, of the martyrs. On North Korea, I know what is a sufferance. One, I know for sure, that there are some family members, many family members that cannot reunite and this is true. This is a suffering of that division of the nation. Today in the cathedral where I dressed in the adornments of the Mass, there was a gift they’ve given me which was a crown of thorns of Christ made with the iron wire that divides the single Korea. We’ve got this on the airplane. It’s a gift I’m carrying. The suffering of the division, of a divided family. As I said yesterday I think, I don’t remember, we have a hope. The two Koreas are siblings and they speak the same language. When you speak the same language it’s because you have the

Pope Francis in a press conference aboard his jet as he returned from a trip to South Korea

same mother and this gives us hope. The suffering of division is great and I understand this and I pray that it ends. I won’t stand up because if I do my colleagues from the televisions will kill me. An observation and a question. As an Italian-American I wanted to compliment you on your English. You shouldn’t be afraid. And if before you go to America, my homeland, you want to practice I’m available. (Pope inaudible, making faces about the difficulty of English pronunciation). Whichever accent you want to use: New Yorker…I’m from New York so I’m available. So the question is this: You spoke about martyrdom. At what point are we in the process for the bishop Romero? And what would you like to see come out of this process? The process was in the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, “blocked for prudence,” as they said. Now it is unblocked and has passed to the Congregation for Saints and it is following the normal path of a process. It depends on how the postulators move. That’s very important to do it quickly. What I would like is that it’s clarified when there is martyr in odium fidei (for the hatred of the faith) both for confessing the creed and for doing works that Jesus commands with our neighbour. This is a work of the theologians, who are studying it. Because behind him is a long list and there are others. There are others who were killed but weren’t of the same height of Romero. We have to distinguish this theologically, no? For me, Romero is a man of God. He was a man of God. But we have to run the process and the Lord has to give his sign there. But, now the

I try to think of my sins and my errors not to flatter myself because I know it won’t last long. Two or three years and then (makes a sound and gesture) up to the house of the Father postulators have to move because there are no impediments. Seeing the war in Gaza, do you think the prayer for peace organised in the Vatican last June 8 was a failure? Thanks for the question. That prayer for peace, absolutely was not a failure! First, the initiative didn’t come from me. The initiative to pray together came from the two presidents. The president of the State of Israel and the president of the State of Palestine. They made the restlessness present to me. Then, we wanted to do it there but we couldn’t find the right place because of the political post of each one it was very strong if we did it in one or another part. The nunciature was a neutral site, yes, but to get to the nunciature the president of Palestine had to enter in Israel. The thing wasn’t easy. They said, well, let’s do it in the Vatican. We’ll go. These two men are men of peace. They are men who believe in God. They have lived so many nasty things, so many nasty things. They are convinced that the only path to resolve that situation is negotiation, dialogue, peace.

Your question now. Was it a failure? No, I think that the door is open. All four. With the representative which is Bartholomew. I wanted him to be there as the head of the orthodox, but the ecumenical patriarch of the orthodox. I don’t want to use terms that aren’t appreciated by all of the orthodox. As ecumenical patriarch, it was good that he was with us. But the door to prayer was opened. We said we needed to pray. It’s a gift; peace is a gift. It’s a gift that is merited through our work, but it’s a gift. And to say to humanity that also the path of dialogue which is important, of dialogue also there is prayer. It’s true, after this what happened has happened. But this is given by circumstances. That encounter wasn’t given by circumstances. It’s a fundamental step of the human being, prayer. Now the smoke of the bombs of the wars don’t allow us to see the door but the door is still open from that moment. As I believe in God, I believe that God is watching that door and all who pray and ask that he help us. I like that question. Thanks for having posed it. Thanks. Holy Father, thanks a lot. I think you’ve done more than an hour of conversation also with us and now it’s just that you go relax a bit with the end of the voyage. Anyway, we know that on this trip you’ll probably go on to Our Lady. From the airport, I’m going to Our Lady. It’s a nice thing. I asked Dr. Giani (the head of the Vatican’s gendarme police) to bring roses from Korea with the colours of Korea, but then outside the nunciature a little girl came with a bouquet of flowers and we said why don’t we take these flowers from a girl from Korea. That’s what we’ll do. From the airport, we’ll go to pray a bit there and then onwards to home.

POLITICS

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Gov, lawmakers bicker over CJ IGBEAKU ORJI writes on the rejection of Abia State House of Assembly’s resolution on the Chief Judge by Governor Theodore Orji

ince its creation in 1991, Abia State has had three substantive Chief Justices. Prior to her appointment as the third substantive Chief Judge of Abia State, Justice Nnenna Oti, had served in acting capacity within the four years the state judiciary worked without a substantive Chief Judge. Her immediate predecessor, Justice Sunday Ndudim Imo, retired in December 2010, since then the state was without a substantive Chief Judge until her appointment. Ironically, five months into her appointment, precisely in April 2014, the same House of Assembly that screened and recommended her appointment to the governor, Theodore Orji, also recommended her sack in a manner considered by many as hasty, thoughtless and extreme. Her offence was her refusal to appear before the ad hoc committee set up to investigate a petition against her over the conduct of the recent jail delivery exercise in which the petitioners alleged that some of those set free were dreaded criminals whose freedom would be injurious to their lives. In fact, it was gathered that a few days after the exercise, one of the persons the criminals had threatened to kill before they were clamped in detention, was actually shot dead. And the petitioners believed it was one of those freed by the Chief Judge. The petitioners therefore saw her action as premeditated and unconscionable. Those freed in the jail delivery exercise, a normal traditional exercise of the Chief Judge, were said to be awaiting trial inmates. And the Chief Judge considered that if they were sentenced they would have served out their terms. It is however doubtful whether she flouted the procedure of the jail delivery exercise. Can she legally be held responsible for a seemingly innocuous exercise, performed according to the requirements of her office? Was there any breach in the exercise? But even if the House knew otherwise, the lawmakers would not speak for her in relation to the petition. On the other hand, why, as some have queried, did she, without explanation, refuse to defend her action before the House committee? In as much as the House could be said to have gone to the extreme by recommending her sack, among other measures, she cannot be completely exonerated for such disregard and slight on an institution of government vested with the statutory power and oversight functions. As a Chief Judge, she should have known better than to impudently ignore the summon, which was in recognition of her right to fair hearing. Could the House be blamed for finding her culpable since she rebuffed the opportunity to defend her action? What the House did, in the opinion of pundits, was to pay her back in her own coin. The House, in passing the resolution, was quite aware that it did not have the power to implement it. Hon. Chidiebere Nwoke is the chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary. He explained that the purported sack was merely a recommendation to the executive arm. Nwoke, a lawyer and member representing Umuahia East in the House, further noted that the House in passing the resolution knew its limitation. It knew it didn’t have the final say. “Before the recommendation can stand, it must have the approval of the gover-

Orji

nor and the National Judicial Council (NJC),” he said. The NJC would have to be convinced of the propriety of the action before it would have any effect even after the governor’s approval. He said their recommendation was based on her refusal to appear before the committee after being summoned to defend herself against a petition against her. But the Aba branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) had threatened a showdown on the basis of media reports that the House of Assembly had sacked the Chief Judge. The CJ could not be reached because she was said to be outside the country at the time but an official of the state High Court who pleaded for anonymity, said the “petitioners wanted to undermine her because she will retire in September.” He said that the petitioners address could not be located in Umuahia. He described the petition as frivolous. “What actually happened was that the beneficiaries of the jail delivery exercise had been in detention for eight years without trial. Since the time of Justice Imo who also directed the police and the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to expedite action on the matter. But each time both the police and the DPP would dither saying they were not ready. When the Chief Judge visited this time around and saw that the matter was still as it has been for eight years, she ordered their release and asked the police and the DPP to arraign them in court properly when they sort out themselves. Thank God for the governor’s understanding,” the source said. Even those who have acted as Chief Judges directed the DPP and the police to produce their case files for action but they failed to do so. The implication is that if they succeeded in tarnishing her reputation and integrity, she would have lost her entitlements and dismissed ignominiously. A judge in the Abia State judiciary, who pleaded not to be named, however said the action of the House of Assembly was orchestrated by government to remove her. Her sin, according to him, is that on several occasions she had tried to get access to the governor on issues but was blocked by the governor’s aides. Consequently, “she decided to use her

Oti

Having gone through the entire gamut of the resolution, I realised that the petition that prompted the House inquiry that led to the resolution was a result of the Chief Judge‘s performance of a judicial function as exemplified in the jail delivery initiative to do certain things which the government is not happy with.” “Again, she shuffled the leadership of NBA in the state which brought the chairman of the Aba branch to Umuahia. The Aba Branch of NBA is known to be unrelenting in its criticism of government policies and government felt that the only way to curtail its influence against its policies was to cause disaffection among the membership. Also there are several administrative decisions she has taken which didn’t go down well with the government. The government wants to see if it could circumvent the rules and procedure to install its own person. It’s unfortunate that the government wants one to do its bidding whether it is proper or not. “Government is supposed to be a system of structures and institutions working together for the common good, but here you find that you must satisfy the whims and caprices of individuals no matter the official or professional requirements of your office. The plan was actually to gauge public response to the action and if nothing happened then it would have sailed through. The House of Assembly being a rubber stamp legislature wouldn’t have done otherwise.” But Governor Orji was unequivocal in his rejection of the resolution. Upon his return from a two-week vacation, the governor had time to reflect and re-evaluate the resolution. He probably foresaw the tension his ascent would engender.

He refused to act on the recommendation. To him, it will be much easier to persuade the legislators to overlook the slight on them than to manage the disaffection it will precipitate in the entire system. Again, Abia State judiciary record is not very pleasant. The state has been without a substantive Chief Judge in the past four years. Several judges had come and gone as acting Chief Judges. The governor had to address the press on the matter with a written address so that “I will not be misquoted”. He said the House of Assembly in its resolution no 160 had recommended the sack of the CJ because she refused to appear before the committee that investigated a petition of misconduct against her. The governor made it clear that since the CJ’s action was in the conduct of her official duties there are better ways of handling the matter for the harmonious relationship of the three arms of government. “I am in receipt of Abia State House of Assembly resolution No. 160 of August 1, 2014, seeking the removal of the Chief Judge of Abia State for acts of misconduct, arising out of a jail delivery exercise in Umuahia Prison wherein two awaiting trial inmates involved in armed robbery and murder offences were released by the Chief Judge. “From same resolution, I noted that the Chief Judge was invited by Abia State House of Assembly, but she refused to appear. “Having gone through the entire gamut of the resolution, I realised that the petition that prompted the House inquiry that led to the resolution was a result of the Chief Judge‘s performance of a judicial function as exemplified in the jail delivery. “The three arms of government in Abia State enjoy optimum cooperation and collaboration in the running of the affairs of the state and there has never been any friction between any of these arms since the inception of this government in 2007. This explains the peace we enjoy in Abia State which peace is assured till the end of this present government in May 2015. “Having said this, I hereby direct that the status quo remain while I seek peaceful resolution of the crisis.” The House has kept quiet over the refusal of the governor to sack the CJ. Even if the woman’s sin was punishable, she could be pardoned because she will retire in September.

More stories on Pages 40-43, 48

ARTS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2014

LITERATURE

NEW TELEGRAPH

www.newtelegraphonline.com/arts

“THE CROWN OF LITERATURE IS POETRY.” ― WILLIAM SOMERSET MAUGHAM

TONY OKUYEME

tony.okuyeme@newtelegraphonline.com okuyemeogom@yahoo.com

Torture never stops..., Tomorrow’s Debris, Irate needles Book: Tears in a Basket Author: Sophia Obi Publisher: Kraft Books Pages: 64 Reviewer: John Anusie

ophia Obi’s first collection of poems, Tears in a Basket, can be said to be a response to William Shakespeare’s exhortation in The Tempest, Act 2, Scene 1: “If of life you do keep a care/ Shake off slumber, and beware./ Awake, awake!” She is aware of life in its ambiguities, complexities and screams in disapprobation; she is aware of the tropes of love and motherhood and childbirth and sighs in fervent submission. This collection is in two parts – part one, made up of 34 poems; and part two, made up of 15 poems. The very first part is a mixed meditation on themes sad and happy. The second part encapsulates, and this is a relief, the theme of love; it is the poet’s orchard to Eros and Cupid. The first poem in part one, Tomorrow’s Debris, on page 12, mourns the victims of unprovoked violence and the orphans left behind to live on the grass of nothing: “I pop my head I the midst of wolves / who wine and dine on the toil / of the weak and wasted / From among the battered thatches / I heat the wailing of thirsty souls / who till and toil, / hungry for love. (line 1-7) The poet’s use of “thatches” may suggest a rural area. The massacre at Odi, Bayelsa State, easily comes to mind. But the poem is not sufficiently developed to confirm the reader’s suspicion. The devastation is such that, “The soil and rivers mourn, / heavy with the weight of the dead” (line 8-9). The poet, a Nigerian of Oloibiri provenance, finds the subject of her town irresistible and gladly limns a poem to its memory. In oil exploration Nigeria has a convoluted history steeped in betrayal and blood and agony. Oloibiri is where it all began, in 1956. But who remembers? Who cares? In Oloibiri, on page 13, the poet bewails the despoliation of her town by oil explorers who are mostly indifferent to the suffering and poverty of the community: “At last I am free, / Free from bondage / Yet, / Desolate like a wealthy aged whore / Wrapped in gloomy attire, / I lay on the altar of faded glory, / Oily tears rolling through my veins / To nourish households in the desert. / Along the coast / The smoke and stench / Of my crude flow desecrates / My marine reserves” (stanza 1 & 2). It is ironic that the people, though rich in resources, stagnate. In stanzas 9 & 10, which bear the spoor of pathos, the poet posits that her people are bereft: “The posts of progress – the towers of develop-

ment – are not in the Delta but elsewhere: Yet, I quench the thirst / Of the desert dwellers. / Far and wide, my flow invents / Elegant monuments gigantic / To the untutored sight of my people. / Bridges and mansions grow out of dusty lands / while my children wallow / In the crude hut peculiar to my swamp”. All is not gloom and despondency, however. The poet still rides the pylon of optimism and shares her people’s joy at being possessors of an important resource: “But I am awakened by the oily tears of the Ijaw Nation / And I hear the laughter, / I hear the celebration, / The joyful uproar that comes / With controlling the blessings / Of my God-given inheritance.” (Stanza 12) The eponymous poem Tears in a Basket, on page 19, is one of the bitterest poems in the collection, embodying the tragedy of the Niger Delta and its beleaguered denizens. The title itself is flamboyantly symbolic. A basket, like a sieve, retains no liquid. Tears in a Basket, therefore connotes despoliation and suffering in perpetuity. The poet detonates vital queries and amplifies them with the refrain: “We are sacrificial leeches/ waiting to be quashed.” The poet sees the Niger Deltans as defanged and therefore vulnerable. They can be destroyed (‘”quashed”) at any time.

In I hate farewells, at page 29, the poet bewails the death of Harold Dappa Biriye, one of the most respected voices for justice and equity in the Niger Delta. He lived a life of rectitude and service. Now that he is no more, the poet takes solace in the bubbles of his memory. She writes: “I try to wash pigments of sorrow / Off my mind, with tears of solace. / Reminiscence of his presence stashed / On my pupil as I see him, a while ago he stood here / With eighty-five grey strands of wisdom, hope / Squinted eyes gaze into the promised land.

(Stanza 3). Discovery channel, which begins part two, pulsates with the poet’s titillation at her first coital experience: “I remember our first night together, / Lonely on deserted stretch of idle tar, / Alone in the humid air of your jalopy / I felt your lips on mine / Sweet and wet like the white / Of a freshly boiled egg / That somber night / When you kissed me / The windows of my soul / Rolled down smoothly / Without prompting” (Stanza 1-3). In Shylock, at page 55, the poet, introspective, relives her experience and wonders (in stanza 3) why her man had to go. Now she is determined to protect her heart from the fluff of false promises. She is still open to the whispers of love, though, as she admits in the last line: “I pray, may it prick a heart again”. The poet adopts a simple style in this collection, and one need not dig eleven feet to appreciate the poems. Of course the warts in Tears in a Basket are easy to spot: There is evident disarrangement of poems in this collection. Some poems, like Reflections (page 26), and Irate needles (page 27), love poems both, should have been included in part two and not part one, to make for thematic harmony. Lifeless metaphors like “sleep” and “stage,” used for “earth” and “death” in “Tomorrow’s debris” (page 29, literally slash muscles from this collection .One also notices the use of clichés for titles – “litmus test” (page 23) and “Gone too soon” (page 28). Using clichés for titles is like having Grendel answer the door. It earns the displeasure of the fastidious guest. I also find the poet’s use of “spits” in stanza 5 of Timeless clock (page 39), where she writes: “Like the rain, / she tolerates all heads / and spits into all hearts/,” somewhat jarring. “Spits” bears a negative connotation; it carries all the allotropes of animosity and vendetta. Love, the subject of Timeless clock, may “sing,” it may “croon,” it / may “whisper.” But “spits”?

God Has A Sense of Humour for presentation

uthor of The Perfect Church, Ebi Akpeti, will play host to the literary community, including scholars, critics and art aficionados, for the signing of her new book, God Has A Sense of Humour. The event holds on Saturday, August 23, 2014, at Bogobiri House, 9, Maitama Sule Street, off Awolowo Road, South-West, Ikoyi, Lagos, at 3pm. God Has A Sense of Humour is a collection of short funny stories with powerful messages for women and for the men who love them. Written with passion, reassurance and insight, each story will touch your soul and inspire you to make every

minute of every day more fulfilling. A woman’s life is full of emotions and God Has A Sense of Humour touches them all. Ebi Akpeti is a Harvard trained Project Manager. She is an alumnus of the Massachusetts institute of Technology (MIT) professional education. A 2006 nominee of the Capital Market Reporter of the prestigious Nigerian Media Merit Award NMMA Award, NMMA for her story “Trigger for Fraud”, Ebi is also the author of three books’: Growing Pains, Castrated and the controversial book The Perfect Church which was recently adapted into a screen play by multiple award winning producer, Mr Wale Adenuga.

EDITORIAL

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

OUR VISION To build a newspaper organisation anchored on the sanctity of truth.

OUR MISSION To publish a newspaper of superior value, upholding the fundamental ethics of journalism: balanced reporting, fairness, accuracy and objectivity.

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Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon and the truth – Buddha

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2014

Nigeria’s intriguing telecommunications growth

he Chairman of the National Communications Commission (NCC), Mr. Peter Igho, has said that Nigeria is presently the world fastest telecommunications growing country. He said that as at April 2014, Nigeria had 129 million active telephone subscribers with 92 per cent teledensity as against the 0.4 per cent it had previously. Similarly, 50 million Nigerians, he said, have access to the Internet. The NCC boss explained that telecommunications contributes 8.5 per cent to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and has transformed the way of doing things in the country. That no modern economy can be sustained today without an integral telecommunications infrastructure is widely acknowledged. The wireless revolution and the internet phenomenon have recently changed the way people live and transact business. GSM has no doubt impacted positively on the lives of Nigerians considering the fact that it enables effective communication not only in cities but also even in rural areas. According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the GSM network achieved 350,000 connections within six months of their launch. The new operators

We acknowledge that there are problems that the GSM operators are confronted with, but the challenges are not sufficient enough excuses, in explaining away the numerous poor services the telecommunications providers are daily foisting on the people of Nigeria, much of which bothers on outright cheating of Nigerians under different guises have also reduced their start-up prices, though customers still complain that their tariff is too high. Using GSM mobiles to connect with fixed lines is still hampered by the limited number of interconnectivity lines provided by Nigerian Telecommunications, which used to be a GSM operator but lags behind the private firms – MTN Nigeria Communications and then Econet Wireless now Airtel – in expanding its mobile services before it went into limbo. The percentage of Mobile Telecommunication subscribers in Nigeria is over 70 and this percentage clearly shows

how much we have accepted GSM as our way of communication. GSM has no doubt impacted positively on the lives of Nigerians considering the fact that it enables effective communication not only in cities but also even in rural areas. Nigerian GSM subscribers can now use their mobile phones to do many things including making voice calls, sending short messages services (text) and other high level of services like, transmitting (sending) and receiving still and line images, watching live events from any part of the world etc. However, GSM operators are more interested in building market share than offering quality services to their consumers. Every now and then they proudly announce the number of millions of subscribers they now have. Some of them are even rolling out new number ranges every time without asking how existing GSM customers are faring. We acknowledge that there are problems that the GSM operators are confronted with, but the challenges are not sufficient enough excuses, in explaining away the numerous poor services the telecommunications providers are daily foisting on the people of Nigeria, much of which bothers on outright cheating of Nigerians under different guises. Some of the problems associated

with GSM in Nigeria include drop calls which have increased, inability to load credit on the pre-paid lines has not abated, while network coverage is still limited, difficulty in making calls and sending text messages, sub-charging subscribers for services not applied for, criminal promos and advertisements, high tariffs, network failures just to mention but a very few. However, there seems to be no silver lining in the horizon. The kind of poor services provided by the GSM operators is only possible in a country like Nigeria that is very liberal and lenient with investors to make them acclimatize to the country’s business environment as well as NCC’s glaring failure to carry out its mandate to the letter. The GSM providers ought to have factored in all these challenges in the Nigerian market into their business plans from the outset. There is no doubting the fact that these companies are making very huge profits in the country; that is why they cannot leave the country in spite of their complaints because of the very huge market that the country provides and Nigerians are very accommodating people, but their tolerance should not be mistaken for stupidity or taken for granted for whatever reason. GABRIEL AKINADEWO Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief FELIX OGUEJIOFOR ABUGU Deputy Managing Director/DEIC SULEIMAN UBA GAYA Managing Editor YEMI AJAYI Editor, Daily LAURENCE ANI Editor, Saturday EMEKA MADUNAGU Editor, Sunday AYODELE OJO Deputy Editor, Daily EMEKA OBASI Deputy Editor, Daily LEO CENDROWICZ Bureau Chief, Brussels MARSHALL COMINS Bureau Chief, Washington DC SAM AMSTERDAM Editorial Coordinator, Europe EMMAN SHEHU (PhD) Chairman, Editorial Board GEOFFREY EKENNA News Editor TAIWO AHMED Advert Manager UCHEY OKEZIE Ag. Sales/Marketing Manager TIMOTHY AKINLEYE Head, Graphics ROBINSON EZEH Head, Admin.

Sanctity of Truth

OPINION Revisiting Osun State guber election Prince M. Arayuwa Wilkie

he Osun State Gubernatorial election which was conducted on August 9, 2014 by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been won and lost by the two major gladiators of the All Progressives’ Congress (APC) and the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP). Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola of the APC, an incumbent Governor of the State won convincingly with a total vote of 394,684 while senator Iyiola Omisore (PDP) scored 292,747 votes. The rest candidates of the parties merely contested the election in order to enrich and upgrade their curriculum vitae. It will be on record that such candidates once contested a Governorship election in their State when, in fact, they ended up as busy body political jesters and clowns. Prior to the election and the attendant campaigns by the candidates, so many issues were thrown-up which bothers on allegations and counter- allegations of the intent to rig and win the election by both parties. For instance, the PDP alleged that the APC had already completed the onerous arrangement to collude with the INEC officials in order to substitute the NYSC members with the OYES cadets of the Osun State Government for the conduct of the Guber election. The PDP warned that anyone caught in such an act would be dealt with by the security operatives. This allegation was proved wrong in view of the fact that no NYSC member was substituted with the Osun State OYES cadets. On the part of the APC, it consistently maintained that the PDP had completed plans to rig elections in 10 local Government Areas of the State, namely: Olorunda, Iwo, Ifelodun, Oshogbo, Odun Otin, Aiyedade, Ife Central, Ife East, Ife North and Ife South. Result of the contest has, however, revealed that of the 10 Local Government Areas, the PDP won in 5 of them while the APC had 5 LGAs to its electoral

fortune and credit. In fact, Iyore Omisore of the PDP was brutally devastated in Oshogbo where Aregbesola won with 39,983 votes as against Omisore’s 11,513 votes. In Olorunda LGA, the APC candidate scored 26,551 votes as against the PDP’s 8,483 votes. This was another deadly blow for the PDP candidate. The result of Odon Otin and Ayedade LGAs indicated some slight differences in the performance of the two parties. The APC also won in Iwo with 20,827 as against PDP’s 15,493. In Ife North, the difference between the contestants was slight in favour of Omisore. The results from Ife Central, East and South clearly showed that the PDP candidate won clearly with good margins. Apart from Isokan, Ayedire and Boluwaduro Local Government Areas where Omisore slightly won, Aregbesola carried the day in the other areas. On the whole, the APC candidate was victorious in 22 LGAs while the PDP was left with only 8 of the 30 LGAs of the State. From the aforementioned total votes cast in the entire local Government Areas, it would appear to me that Aregbesola (APC) and Omisore (PDP) had their areas of strengths, weaknesses, places of origin and birth which eventually dictated the voting pattern. There is no doubt that incumbency factor was a determinant point also, which worked in favour of the APC candidate. At a glance, it is my irrevocable assertion that the APC allegations against the PDP of the intent to rig the election in 10 Local Government Area could not hold water. The opprobrious and insulting Lai Mohammed, National Publicity Secretary of APC, has obviously become a centurion liar in order to score cheap political goals. The same Lai Mohammed further alleged that the PDP was shopping for a pliable person to be appointed as a Returning Officer by INEC. Such a person would be instructed by Mr. President to rig election in favour of Omisore, the

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

PDP candidate. Lai Mohammed, who certainly referred to the personalities and class of veteran University ViceChancellors was of the impression that such a high profile academia could be manipulated by Mr. President to rig the Osun State Gubernatorial election. Unfortunately for the disdainful and scurrilous National Publicity Secretary, the Returning Officer, the Vice Chancellor of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, was transparent in the discharge of his duty in the said election. The other allegations as leveled against the PDP and its leadership include: the massive presence of security apparatus in Osun was for the purpose of rigging the election; that two different results were already written ahead of the Guber contest and that Mr. President had committed the sum of one billion Naira as bribe the Returning Officer. He, again, should be seen as a serial liar, scornful and contemptuous. Let it be on note, that the security outfits who were sent to Osun State was for the purpose of maintaining peace before, during and after the Governorship election. Afterall, the Osun State election was conducted peacefully without rancour or crisis. Why must the APC scribe always tell unsubstantiated lies and unnecessarily overheating the political system and Nigeria as a Nation State? Can Lai Mohammed who is expected to appreciate the rudiments of the law defend these allegations against the PDP and Mr. President in a competent law court? As a lawyer himself, I feel strongly that he is supposed to handle his Publicity Secretary functions with decorum, decency, maturity and respect for duly constituted Authorities such as the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He should stop insulting Mr. President. • Prince Wilkie (pmikky1950@yahoo.com), 08023097251

A virus called Ebola and the secret club from hell (2)

Femi Fani-Kayode

Continued from yesterday hey prey on all of humanity and they feed on the flesh and drink the blood of us all regardless of where we come from. The roots of these forces are ancient and they are very real. They pre-date America and they were established by a tiny group of deep-thinkers, spiritualists, intellectuals, seasoned occultists and Lucifereans led by Adam Weishaupt in a place called Bavaria in Germany on the European continent in 1776. They are known as the ‘’Illuminati’’ (meaning ‘’the Enlightened Ones”) and their activities are buried in absolute secrecy. Their symbol and operational structure is the pyramid and they are fortified, strengthened and protected by numerous ancient cults and fraternities, secret societies, false religions, pagan rituals, the control of the world’s banking system and money supply and the total domination and control of world politics and the entire world system itself. They are empowered directly, through a very complex and strict hierarchal system and command and control structure, by Satan himself through his human agents and demons. Their ultimate goal and objective is to establish what has been rightly described by many commentators over the years as a ‘’New World Order’’ which will be run by a

‘’One World Government’’ that will be headed by the evil soul that the Holy Bible describes as ‘’the beast’’, the ‘’son of perdition’’ and the ‘’Anti-Christ’’. The Koran describes the same individual as the ‘’MASIH AD-DAJAL’’. Everything that is going on in the world today, including the carnage and bestiality of the numerous conflicts and wars that we are witnessing are silently being orchestrated by them. They were behind the First and Second World Wars and now they are busy stoking fires all over the world, covertly funding and supporting the most vicious and horrendous types of terror groups and quietly preparing the ground for the Third and final World War. They are relentless, disciplined, purposeful, unyielding, ruthless, demonic, sociopathic, inhuman, committed, focused and very clear-thinking. Their ultimate goal is to enslave humanity, to enthrone the leadership of Satan and his agents here on earth, to deny God His rightful place in the hearts and minds of His children, to destroy all His people and all men and women of faith that refuse to bow to their perverse values and to compel humanity to accept their ‘’humanist’’ and ungodly philosophies and ways. These are the facts and anyone that does not believe that such an agenda or such a group exists needs to do a lot more reading, praying and research. The fact is that their greatest source of strength and pleasure is the erroneous enun-

ciation of the absurd notion that they do not exist. They want us all to believe that there is no such evil force and organisation and that there is no such hidden agenda. Yet sadly they DO exist and they not only control much of the world’s economy, media and commerce but they also, through the process of subtle manipulation and sheer guile, install governments, Prime Ministers and Presidents in the most powerful nations in the world and they tell them what to do from behind the scenes. The inner circle of the Illuminati comprises 13 very powerful families that are all related to one another through complex and ancient bloodlines even though they come from different parts of the world. Between them, these 13 families, together with their underlings, fronts and associates, control virtually all the political power and money in the world. Whether anyone chooses to believe it or not the truth is that they are not entirely human and they are utterly cold-blooded. One of those families is the Rothschild family (which literally means the ‘’Red Shield’’). I leave readers to do their own research on these families and to find out their links to the Illuminati. I suggest that they start by reading the numerous works of Mr. David Icke, an utterly brilliant man that has been described by his detractors as ‘’the world’s leading conspiracy theorist.’’ Permit me to end this contribution with a simple yet compelling assertion. In my view,

the most devastating, crippling and deadly disease that confronts humanity today is not Ebola, Aids, cancer or heart disease but rather ignorance. This includes the ignorance about the existence of groups like the Illuminati, their objectives and their modus operandi. Ignorance of such matters is a terrible and debilitating affliction that results in more hardship, more suffering, more pain, more poverty of the body, spirit and soul; more loss of life, more wars, more carnage and more destruction than any other. Worst still, it is very expensive in both spiritual and material terms. The truth is that we must free our minds and see beyond the ordinary if we really wish to be liberated from the evils of our world. We must question everything that we have ever been told or taught and subject those things to deep analysis, thorough scrutiny and rational thinking. As the bible says, we must strive to ‘’know the truth’’ and once we ascertain that truth and that hidden knowledge, it will undoubtedly ‘’set us free’’. May God deliver our nation from ignorant minds and from the scourge known as the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). More importantly, may He save us from those that created it in the first place and who wish to keep us in the dark about their evil purpose and sinister origins. As for Patrick Sawyer, he has gone back to hell where he belongs. And may he burn there forever. Concluded

CAMPUS

MY VISION IS TO }p-25 TRANSFORM NOMADIC EDUCATION — NCNE BOSS

EDUCATION WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2014

GREEK GIFT

Mixed reactions have continued to trail the last week announcement by Lagos and Ogun States Governors reducing school fees in their state-owned higher institutions, which stakeholders described as Greek gift

UNIMAID AGOG AS }p-28 STUDENTS CELEBRATE CULTURAL HERITAGE NEW TELEGRAPH

newtelegraphonline.com/education

KAYODE OLANREWAJU, EDITOR, EDUCATION

kayode.olanrewaju@ newtelegraphonline.com kayolanre@gmail.com 08037127417

How far can school fees slash go?

Kunle Olayeni ABEOKUTA and Mojeed Alabi

ixed reactions have continued to trail the recent announcement of reduction in the fees payable by students of of the Lagos State University (LASU) and their counterparts in the various higher institutions in the neighbouring Ogun State. While the dust raised by the LASU fees reduction was yet to settle, the Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosu took similar steps by announcing a 60 per cent slash in the tuition fees in all tertiary institutions in the Gateway State. The Lagos State Government, had in its announcement reversed to the old rate of N25,000 across board irrespective of students’ level and courses of study. But, unlike the Lagos State reduction which was greeted with jubilation, in Ogun State it was a different kettle of fish as the students of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye went on a peaceful protest against the governor’s announcement, that the 60 per cent cut was unacceptable. However, stakeholders have described the fees reduction in the two state as a Greek gift, saying it portrays the level at which the governors are playing politics with education, the lives of the students and the future of the country. With Governor Amosun’s reduction last week, the apparent cheery news was, however, received with mixed feelings by stakeholders in the education sector, including students, parents, teachers and administrators, among others. The students, who are the would-be beneficiaries of the government’s gesture, are sharply divided over the reduction of their tuition fees. While some are excited about it, others are simply not enthusiastic, saying the governors’ action was a mere political campaign meant to secure the people’s votes in the next year election. To this end, the sudden waves of fees reduction in various higher institutions especially with the approach-

A cross section of Ogun State students shortly after Govt. announce reduction of school fees.

But, unlike the Lagos State reduction which was greeted with jubilation, in Ogun State it was a different kettle of fish... Fashola

ing 2015 general elections have raised more questions than answers, with many tagging them as Greek gifts. In fact, the controversy trailing the Ogun State Government fees reduction, which is expected to take effect from 2014/2015 academic session, after the 2015 general election, as announced by Amosu across the state-owned tertiary institutions, snowballed into a major unrest in Abeokuta last week, when hundreds of aggrieved students took to the streets for two days. The students, mainly from the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, stormed the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the state capital, last Thursday, demanding further reduction in the school fees. The students barricaded the entrance to the Governor’s Office, causing traffic gridlock on major roads and calling for immediate implementation of the reduction in the current

2013/2014 academic calendar. They also asked the state government to adequately fund the education sector, especially tertiary education, and improve on infrastructure. Under the new fees regime in Ogun State, Medical students of OOU, who had been paying N301,610 will now pay N176,596, (41.4 percent reduction), while students of the Faculty of Arts will pay N81,112, instead of the current N126,540 they are paying (5.9 per cent reduction). At Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, the school fees has been reduced from N71,300 to N40,000 for Higher National Diploma (HND), and N22,300 a reduction of between 31.1 and 9.6 per cent respectively for National Diploma (ND) students. Students of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) will now pay N75,000 representing 27.5 percent reduction from N103,435 for the first year students, while returning students who are paying N93,465 will now pay N65,000, representing 30.4 percent. Also, Higher National Diploma (HND) students at Ogun

Amosun

State Institute of Technology, Igbesa and other three institutes of technology owned by the state government, who are currently paying N118,000 will now pay N46,000, a reduction of 61 percent. But stakeholders faulted the reduction and the idea surrounding the governor’s action, wondering why it had to be announced shortly after Governor Babatunde Fashola made a similar decision on the controversial tuition fees at the Lagos State University. To them, the governors’ action is a political calculation, as they described it as “a Greek gift” and belated measure to curry political advantage as the general elections draw nearer. The South-West states controlled by the All People’s Congress (APC), had been known for its free and qualitative education, since the time of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the Premier of Western Region, but today the people of

the geo-political zone are worried about the cost of educating their children. They traced the advent of high tuition fees to 2007, when the then administration of Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola in Osun State, established the Osun State University (UNIOSUN) with a multi-campus system charging between N190,000 and N230,000, depending on the courses of study; a development stakeholders described as unprecedented in the region. But, the fees were reduced in 2011, by Governor Rauf Aregbesola, following complaints by the people and students Today, many other states in the zone have latched onto such precedence, as the trio of Ekiti, Ogun and Lagos State Governments jerked up their higher institutions’ fees astronomically, citing cases of economic realities, dwindling allocations to the states from the Federal Government, and the need to provide qualitative education, as some of the reasons. The Ogun State Government under the then Governor Gbenga Daniel was the first to pull the string when in 2010, towards the twilight of his second term in office, introduced new measures to reposition the state’s much troubled Olabisi Onabanjo University, which included a new fee regime. The fees was increased from N40,000 to between N81,112 for the students of the Faculty of Arts and N301,610 for medical students, among others; a development that was extended to other higher institutions in the state. However, the Lagos State Government stirred a fresh fees controversy when in 2011, by announcing a new fees regime for LASU from N25,000 to as high as N350,000, depending on the courses of study. The introduction of the fees, described by Lagosians as demonic, undemocratic and inhuman, had since continued to face stiff opposition from the students, workers’ unions and various other stakeholders who described the step as an elitist policy of Fashola’s administration, aimed at frustrating children of the poor out of university education. Following in the same step, in 2012, the administration of Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State apart from merging some of the higher institutions created by his predecessor, Mr. Segun Oni, with the then University of Ado-Ekiti, CO NTINUED O N PAGE 27

22 EDUCATION

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Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Anambra to partner UNN on agric development

Group takes spelling bee challenge nationwide Mojeed Alabi he second edition of a Spelling TOsun Bee competition instituted in State by Young Educators

Governor Obiano (left) receiving a document from the Vice-Chancellor, Ozumba, during the visit at the Governor's Lodge, Awka.

nambra State Governor, Dr. Willie Obiano, has expressed the willingness of the state government to partner the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) to drive the agricultural programme of his administration, which is aimed at boosting food security of the state. The governor spoke of the partnership while receiving the principal officers of the university, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Benjamin Ozumba, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Governor’s Lodge in Awka, the state capital. Obiano said the partnership would be in the areas of support and research by the university researchers by generating improved rice seeds, cassava stems and other crop varieties needed to fulfil the dream of his administration in positioning Anambra as food sufficient state. Specifically, the governor stressed that the state would require the support of the University’s Department of Film

and Theatre Arts to revive the state’s culture and make it a destination for tourism in the country. He said about the current security situation in the state: “We understand that nothing can be achieved without securing the state from armed robbers and kidnappers, who are currently on the run; and I am still pursuing them. Right now, and as you can observe, the people can walk around freely on the streets and roads without harassment of security sirens.” The Vice-Chancellor praised the governor on his determination to take the state to greater heights, citing the security summit organised by the government, deployment of drones for surveillance and agricultural mapping, and the governor’s quick response to threat of Ebola virus in the state as evidences of the state government’s prompt responses to situations. Ozumba, who also lauded the governor’s move to partner a South African firm for poultry

development and production in the state, however noted that as a university with a large expanse of land, the university would be favourably disposed to be part of the project and other agricultural programmes of the state. The Vice-Chancellor, who informed the governor of the 54th Founder’s Day lecture of the university, billed for October, this year and would be delivered by Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, requested governor to chair the event. Other principal officers of the university on the ViceChancellor’s entourage during the visit included the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Polycap Chigbu; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Edwin Igbokwe; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Enugu Campus) Prof. Ifeoma Enemo; Registrar, Mr Anthony Okonta; Bursar, Mrs Chinenye Eze Obi; and the Deputy Registrar, ViceChancellor’s Office, Dr Mercy Odukwe, among others.

School owner condemns mass failure in SSCE Sola Adeyemo

IBADAN

orried by the mass failure of candidates in the just released 2014May/ June West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), a school owner, Dr. Ibrahim Saka Ominiwe, has called on the government at all levels to do the right thing to salvage the system. Describing the trend of the poor performance and failure as greatly alarming, the President of Education Legacy College, Olodo area of Ibadan, who spoke at the ninth graduation ceremony of the school, regretted that people who are qualified have not been appointed to manage the education sector. He said it was unfortunate that government had not deemed it fit to appointment capable people to manage the sector, which he considered as the bedrock of the nation's growth and development.

Eguridu

Ominiwe, who insisted that unless the government puts the round peg in the round hole, the mass failure would probably continue unabated, said many of those saddled with the responsibility of managing the education sector are mediocre. “This has translated into failures in all other sectors. It is as

a result of this that the health, agriculture and education sectors, among others have failed," he said. The Proprietor, however, identified poor remuneration and motivation of teachers as other factors responsible for the mass failure in the examinations, saying it teachers are well remunerated like their counterparts in the oil and energy sector, banking and finance, there would have been an improvement in teaching, "while the results of the examination would have improved. Ominiwe, who expressed strong belief that good governance and intelligence go handin-hand, said that the would-be leaders at various levels of national development have to be intelligent, hardworking and with the fear of God to function optimally. "We must be sincere at all times. Justice must prevail to have a peaceful society," he added.

Foundation for primary school pupils between eight and 14 years is being extended to other states of the federation. According to the organisation’s Country Director, Mrs. Eugenia Tachie-Menson, the successful implementation of the maiden edition of the competition in Osun State, where the winner recieved an all-expense-paid trip to the 87th Scripps National Spelling Bee in the United States of America, as a guest, has encouraged the organisation to extend it to other states. She said the competition, which is designed to inculcate the basic imperatives of effective communication in the pupils, impacting improved spelling skills in them, and increase participants’ vocabulary, pronunciation and accurate word usage, will in no small measure aid the country’s educational goals. The foundation, according to her, is a non-governmental organisation that promotes literacy and education, and franchise holders of Scripps National Spelling Bee, USA for Ghana in partnership with PDR Media Service Nigeria and Business Interactive Consulting International. The foundation, therefore,

Aregbesola

explained that the second edition of the competition, which will involve the 36 states of the federation, will begin in November, with a call to schools to enroll for their participation. Tachie-Menson explained that a maximum of 25 schools in each state will be allowed participate in the competition, while the selected teachers from the schools will undergo a one-week training to be led by Linguistics trained officials from Ghana. “After this, the teachers are expected to impart their newly acquired skills in their students,” she said, adding that the national competition will take place in April 2015, with all that state finalists converging in Calabar to compete for the overall best position in the country.

Centre praises Okpara varsity over infrastructure Uwakwe Abugu

ENUGU

entre for Reform Education Cernmental Initiative (CREI), a non-govorganisation, has

commended the Vice-Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, (MOUAU), Abia State, Prof. Hillary Edoga, for the transformational projects in the institution. According to the centre, the massive execution of projects and infrastructural upgrade had gone a long way to give the institution a facelift. The Executive Director of the education-based civil society group, Mrs. Chinwe Ugwu, told journalists in Enugu that the group, which is committed towards promoting lofty education programmes, good governance, as well as support for all tiers of government in addressing the numerous challenges of human capital development in the country, was impressed by the numerous infrastructural development at MOUAU during the NGO’s recent assessment tour of its facilities. She said: "I think Professor Edoga has really proved that he is a good manager of human and resources. He has raised the bar of the University of Agriculture, Umudike, and he should be commended for that. CREI wants to use this medium to also call on other managers of the nation’s in-

stitutions of higher learning to always take issue of infrastructure and research very seriously as obtained at this university. "It is quite amazing that Professor Edoga, was able to utilise the internal Generated Revenue IGR of the university and some intervention funds to take the institution to the next level, including building of a 10 blocks of students’ hostels.” The Executive Director, hinted that the hostel project with capacity to accommodate about 2,500 students, was constructed without external financial support, saying the university is being taking as a poster child for other tertiary institutions in the country to emulate in financial prudence and resourcefulness. “MOUAU is indeed a good example in prudent management of resources and financial discipline, worthy of emulation by other institutions of higher learning", she added, even as she listed other aspects of the infrastructure revolution going on in the institution. According to Mrs. Ugwu, the group’s findings revealed that apart from the students’ hostel, the Edoga-led management has also built the Library Complex Phase I, and College of Engineering and Engineering Technology (CEET) Phase II, which were funded with capital projects allocations to the institution.

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Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Peace, stability return to Ishiagu agric college Charles Onyekwere ABAKALIKI

ollowing the peace and cordial relationship that have been restored between the Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu, Ebonyi State, and its host community, 20 years after of its existence, members of the college and host community are now free to go about their normal businesses without fear of threat or molestation. The college and its host community, it was gathered had been in sour relationship in the past 20 years of the college’s existence. The Acting Provost of the college, Dr. Anuebunwa Felix, who broke the cheering news during an interactive session with journalists, held at the college’s conference hall, recalled that prior to his appointment as the Provost in an acting capacity on March 22, 2013, peace had continued to elude the college, resulting to increasing wave of insecurity of staff members and students of the institution. However, Anuebunwa noted that he was able to tackle the crisis and insecurity challenges facing the college headlong on assumption of office by setting up various committees comprising of members of staff and host community to resolve the differences between the management and members of staff on one hand, and between the management and the college’s host community on the other. He said the management’s initiative of holding regular meeting with community leaders, as well as running an opendoor policy and transparent administration, and affairs of the

college have gone a long way to serve as antidote to the crisis. The Acting Provost, who pointed out that the college, was the only college of agriculture in the entire South-South and South East geo-political zones of the federation, recalled the level of disillusion of management and staff of the college administration on assumption of office. He traced the causes of such disillusion to high level of abandoned projects; dwindling enrolment figure of students which stood at about 300 students; while the college’s livestock, poultry, fisheries and cassava farms were moribund. Besides, the Provost said there was no master plan for the college, and if there was, it was not followed, while non-accreditation of several departments was the order of the day, even as he listed other challenges facing the college to include poor Internally Generated Revenue (IGR); the de-listing of the college from the West Africa Agricultural Productivity Programme (WAAPP); illegal bank accounts; presence of ghost workers and acute water problem, especially for students use. Anuebunwa said: “We are so lucky that the college which is about 20 years old have now recorded monumental success, having been transformed in line with the expectations of its founding fathers. This is the only federal college of agriculture in the entire South-South and South-East. Some years back, the college suffered great setbacks, but we realised that the setbacks could not be forever. We believed that one day, God will bring a messiah and

College trains nurses on disaster management Abubakar Muhammad KANO

curtains have been lowTcatehe ered on a two-week certificourse on “Disaster Nurs-

Gov Elechi

it appears that the messiah has come to its rescue. When I came to this college, I did not know I will be the messiah that God will use to resolve the crises.” He explained that the management was inspired to expand the college to its full capacity to accommodate about 60 per cent of young school leavers of the South-East and South-South population seeking admission in tertiary institutions yearly “There is this need for us to expand the tertiary institutions in that part of the country to solve the problem of lack of admission space for our teaming admission seekers,” Anuebunwa added, noting that the college since his assumption of office, has witnessed astronomical growth and development in all ramifications, especially in areas that required immediate attention. While stressing that his administration has transformed the college to modern agriculture institution through consistent infrastructure development, human capacity building and research output, the Acting Provost reiterated commitment towards improved staff welfare, sustenance of peace and security, capacity building in ICT and provision of additional infrastructure, among other pressing needs in the next five years.

Lagos SUBEB lauds Airtel over adopt-a-school project

ing Emergency Preparedness and Management,” which was organised by the West African College of Nursing (WACN) at National Orthopedic Hospital, Dala, Kano. The exercise attracted participants across the country, who gathered at the ancient city despite the security challenges in the northern part of the country. While flagging off the programme during the opening ceremony, the Executive Secretary of the college, Mrs. H. A. Okedo, on behalf of the President, Council and Fellows of the college expressed gratitude to the management of the National Orthopedic Hospital for its collaboration and consistently support for the college in its quest to educate and retrain the nation’s health workforce, especially the nurses and midwives on disaster management and emergency preparedness. She, however, described the WACN as a formidable subregional professional nursing organisation of nurses in the West African Nursing Organization (WAHO). The Coordinator of the programme, Mr. James Obaka, who pointed out that one of the objectives of the college, is to promote excellence in nursing education at the basic and post basic levels. He added that the college currently has several sub-regional multi-disciplinary training programme and other proposed courses on Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry, expected to take place in September and another two-week courses on Human Resources Management, billed for October in Enugu. On the clinical programmes of the college, Obaka told New Telegraph that the clinical programme was on course serving a large and diverse patient population including a focus on victims of roads accidents, natural disasters, emergency medical and nursing services as seen

in the current Ebola epidemic and Boko Haram challenges. “Nurses are always in the frontline of delivering quality health care services and there is an urgent need to prepare them adequately for the enormous task,” he noted. Meanwhile, he decried the shortage and poor distribution of accident and emergency nurses especially in rural and poor urban areas, stressing the need to expose all nurses and midwives to such training programme so that they will always be in the position to provide quality and effective service. The Medical Director of the hospital, Dr. M. Aminu says the course will take the participants through Anatomy and Physiology, as well as provide practitioners with the requisite skills and knowledge to deliver quality service. He urged participants at the two-week training to pay adequate attention to the training, saying this had become necessary for them to back go home fulfilled after the two week with the notion that the course was worthwhile after all. The participants expressed gratitude to the college for organising the course on how to control disaster in their respective destination. Some of the participants, however, expressed displeasure and dissatisfaction over the non-participation of the nurses from Kano State, as the hosting state and for a state government while pride itself in providing quality health sector at all levels.

Kwakwanso

OAU congratulates Aregbesola he authorities of the Obafemi TIle-Ife, Awolowo University (OAU), have congratulated Mr.

Hon. Adeogun, Mr. Manjor and Mrs. Risikat

s part of efforts and determination to further strengthen its relationship with the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and to assess the impact of its Adopt-A-School programme in the state, leading telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has been lauded by the board. SUBEB commended the telecommunication outfit, especial-

ly for assisting the Lagos State government in improving the quality of education in the state, when the management of Airtel Nigeria paid a courtesy visit to the state education board. Airtel Nigeria had in 2011 adopted Oremeji Primary School II, Ajegunle, Lagos, under its Adopt-A-School CSR initiative, as part of efforts to provide access to quality primary and secondary school education for

Nigerian children, particularly the underprivileged. Under the initiative, Airtel renovated the primary school and has since been providing educational and instructional materials for the pupils. The team, led by CSR Manager, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Chinda Manjor was received by the Education Secretary, AjeromiIfelodun Local Government, Mr. Adewale Adeogun.

Rauf Aregbesola on his re-election as the Governor of Osun State for the second term of four years. The university in a release by the institution Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, eulogised the sterling qualities of Aregbesola and urged him to continue to give more dividends of democracy to the entire people of the state. In a congratulatory letter signed by the Registrar, Mr. Dotun Awoyemi, on behalf of the Governing Council; the ViceChancellor, Professor Bamitale Omole; Senate, staff and students of the university, the Ivory Tower attributed the victory of the governor in the election, which took place on August 9, to

the acceptability of the policies and programmes of his administration which have positively impacted on the entire citizenry of Osun State. He called on Aregbesola to see his re-election as a national call to duty, by using his God-given talents to further elevate the people's standard of living and serve humanity in general. “The management, staff and students of Obafemi Awolowo University is pleased to be associated with the governor and the university is proud of the successes his administration has recorded in the last four years of his first lap in office,” the release said. The Registrar enjoined the governor to sustain, on a greater scale, the long history of collaboration between the state government and the Obafemi Awolowo University.

24 EDUCATION Kayode Olanrewaju

rom the Provost of Michael Otedola College of Primary Education (MOCPED), Noforija, Epe, Lagos, Prof. Olu Akewusola, has come a knock for the nation’s education system, which he said had failed to take the country to the promise land. According to him, the day the government scrapped or abrogated the Grade II Teacher Training Colleges in the country was the day the government killed the nation’s education. Today, what the curriculum is designed to produce, he noted could not give the country solid foundation required in primary schools which are the foundation of education and knowledge. He said: “We have a peculiar problem in Nigeria in terms of education development, and not until we are able to address that problem of execution of policies, the nation will keep on deceiving itself.” On the 6-3-3-4 curriculum of education, which Akewusola said was misinterpreted by the key players in the sector has continued to taunt the delivery of quality education in the country. His words: “The 6-3-3-4 system says there will be six years of primary school education, three years of junior secondary school, three years of senior secondary school and four years of tertiary education, and not university education as it was misinterpreted. That is the major crisis the system is facing today as every child wants to go to the university, even without the requisite competence.” Akewusola, who described this as the second mistake of the government in the implementation, execution and delivery of education, however wondered that the replacement

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Govt kills Nigeria’s education with scrapping of teacher colleges of the Grade II Teachers with the Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) as the minimum teaching qualification in the nation’s school system was a miss-match. “They are two separate entities with different responsibilities,” he recalled, saying the NCE curriculum till date has been tailored towards specialization and junior secondary school teaching, with adequately addressing the needs of primary school education. The Provost, while explaining that Grade II teachers were trained in variety of that are taught in primary school subjects and methodologies of teaching, while NCE specialised in only two courses and

education, however wondered how a NCE teacher with specialization in only two subjects could teach in primary school with between 13 and 16 subjects. “A Grade II teacher is able to teach English Language and Mathematics effectively in primary schools because the elementary or basic things that are required at that level have been taught,” he stressed, noting that that could only work successfully at the junior secondary school level, even as he added that the country is not rich enough to sponsor specialisation at the primary school level. On the school curriculum,

Akewusola described the agency responsible for developing curriculum for Nigerian school system as unserious. He said the curriculum planners are only belabouring the children unnecessarily with too many subjects, saying the country is moving in a dynamic world, without adequate planning to sustain such movement. While blaming most of the crises in the education sector to policy somersault, the don wondered that it is only in the ministry of education that you will find a lawyers who are directors, or accountants who are directors, who lacked the wherewithal for such responsibilities.

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, PDR Media Services, Mr. Akinleye Olu-Philips; Father of the winner of the maiden edition of spelling bee competition held in Osun State, Zainab Olawale, Mr. Moshood Olawale, and Country Director, Young Eductators Foundation, Mrs. Eugenia Tachie-Menson during Zainab's decoration.

NGO takes patriotism campaign to Lagos schools

etermined to promote patriotism and imbibe in Nigerians and imbue the love of the country in Nigerians, especially the younger ones, as well as raise quality leadership for the nation, a non-governmental organisation, The Campaign for Patriotism, has instituted a leadership training programme for pupils in Lagos schools. Tagged: “Catch-PatriotsYoung,” the programme, according to its Coordinator, Mr. Dotun Ojon was instituted in response to the challenges of patriotism and love for one’s nation confronting the country. While addressing the pupils of Ajalogun Memorial School, Ikorodu, Lagos during one of the leadership training programmes oragnised for the school, he challenged the pupils on the need to identify the problems facing the county and with a view to proffering solutions that will bring about the change they desire to see even at their tender age. Ojon, who lamented that one of the major problems facing the country today is that of lack of patriotism and love for one’s nation, urged the future leaders to be moved by the problems of others, and make the nation proud.

Commissioner hails UNN alumni Abike Olubade

or projecting the good image FUniversity of the association and the of Nigeria, Nsukka

(UNN) in Delta State and worldwide, the Warri branch of the University of Nigeria Alumni Association (UNAA) has been praised. The encomium was given by a Commissioner in the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), representing Isoko Ethnic Nationalities in the Commission, Chief Ogeh Ajiri Joseph, when the members of executive of the branch visited him in his residence. The immediate past President of the branch, Dr. Soeze Charles Ikedikwa, regretted his inability to attend the association’s meetings regularly, saying certainly it was not due to lack of interest on his part, but as a result of urgent and pressing official responsibilities he has to attend to. To this end, he appealed to the association to always accept his apologies for being absence in its meetings and activities. Ogeh, while expressing determination to always support the activities of his alma mater, urged members of the Warri branch to work in concert with other branches in Delta State to ensure a successful hosting of the UNAA worldwide National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, billed for February 2015. The Commissioner, who was particularly delightful with the activities of the branch and called on the executive officers to keep the flag flying and not to relent in their efforts at taking the association and the university to their lofty heights. He insisted that the efforts and ability to do things right that are always exhibited by members of the branch is noticeable and appreciated worldwide, pointing out that UNN as the first autonomous and indigenous university in the country has equipped its graduates for a rapid social evolution. In his remarks, the Vice President of the association, Prince Andrew Duku, on behalf of the President, Sir Casely Omon-Irabor, a lawyer, thanked the Ogeh for the support giving to his alma mater and appealed to him to sustain such in the same spirit. While reiterating that the visit had become necessary since the branch is to host the forthcoming NEC in February 2015, the branch sought the Commissioner’s support to make the event a success.

Pupils of Ajalogun Memorial School, Ikorodu, Lagos during the free leadership training.

He advised the pupils: “If you can take the pain as a young Nigerians to do things the right way, you will soon be celebrated because it is naturally easier to make news in a society where things are not working well. I mean if anyone among you puts in extra efforts to do the right thing, you will soon become a star, because it is regrettable that we have many people engaging in wrong doings that are

inimical to the collective development and advancement of the country.” Responding on behalf of the school management, Mrs. Fabunmi commended the group for the initiative and pledged the readiness of the school to always partner the organisation in building a great future for the country, which all and sundry will be proud of. According to the pupils, the seminar has impacted their

lives a great deal, which they said would go a long way to change their disposition towards the country. The Campaign for Patriotism, Ojon pointed out was instituted in 2008, as a community development programme under the national Youth Service Commission (NYSC), which is aimed at redirecting the minds of Nigerians towards the path of patriotism and selflessness.

Ozumba, VC

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Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Aderinoye: My vision is to transform nomadic education

schools across the country. We want the children to have better uniforms so that they can see themselves as regular pupils in schools, and not marginalised, abandoned or neglected.

Professor Rasheed Aderinoye, the former Deputy Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education (UBEC) is the incumbent Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Nomadic Education (NCNE). In this interview with YEKEEN NURUDEEN, he speaks about efforts of the commission at taking education to nomadic children, challenges and his vision to transform the commission for effective service delivery. Six months after you took office as the Executive Secretary of the NCNE how have you been able to transform or change the fortune of the Commission? It has been an interesting experience. I assumed office in February, this year, and my meeting with the then Acting Executive Secretary, Mr. Yamcha, acquainted me with the state of things in the commission. There and then, I discovered that one; generally the activities in the Commission were very low because of the fact that there was nothing happening for the past one or two years. Besides, I discovered that the problem of funding was a very serious challenge. In fact, in the last year budget only about 40 per cent was disbursed out of the total amount allocated to the Commission. So, with my background and experience from UBEC, the first thing for me was how to seek support from UBEC, and I am grateful that the Executive Secretary, Dr. Sulaiman Dikko provided such support. What I did was to put up a proposal to UBEC requesting support in three major areas; infrastructure, capacity building for teachers and provision of instructional materials. With the granting of our proposal, a substantial amount of money was released to NCNE. Prior to this N17 million was released from our capital project, which was spent on conducting monitoring activities in the South-South to find out the state of nomadic education in the area. When we talk about nomadic education, we are talking of education of the migrant fishermen, education of the pastoralist and education of the migrant farmers, particularly their children, as well as the time of their parents. If the parents are literate and well informed, they will be in good position to support the education of their children. Of course, the monitoring exercise to a great deal revealed a lot of issues including those of inadequate infrastructure, problem of inadequate qualified teachers, lack of resting spots for the migrant fishermen and even when they have resting spots there is no conducive environment for learning. The required resting spots supposed to take these migrants six months and that environment should be a conducive environ-

ment which should have infrastructure such as classrooms, teachers and instructional materials for the children to learn. But this was not available. Besides, the commission conducted advocacy exercise in response to a UNICEF study on the level of participation of women, level of participation of girl-child in the nomadic education programme. We discovered that the rate of participation had been so low. In fact, we have to come up with an advocacy workshop in Kaduna which attracted the Governor of Kaduna State, as well as major stakeholders, women commissioners in the 19 Northern states and FCT, Chairmen of SUBEB from the states and FCT. The workshop offered us the opportunity to discuss the issue of girl-child education and women participation in education. The communiqué has been well-publicised all over the northern states because the people have known that something is happening at the National Commission for Nomadic Education. Through the UBEC support we have been able to conduct capacity building for our teachers in the six geo-political zones of the federation. We held in six centres, comprising the North-East, which was held in Gombe; North-West in Gusau; South-South in Benin City; South-East in Enugu, while that of North-Central took place at Minna, and the South-West had its training in Ibadan. So far, 613 teachers participated in the capacity workshop. During our visits to some of the nomadic schools, we found in deplorable situation of the schools, in view of the poor state of the teachers, pupils and the environment. In fact, we discovered that the children had uniform; the teachers’ appearance did not depict them as teachers, while the quality of teaching was greatly affected because of the quality of teachers on ground. Though, we started the training with this number of teachers with the hope to increase in the future. The workshop was organised simultaneously in all the six geo-political zones. What was the focus of the capacity training? The four core subject; Mathematics, English Language, Social Studies and Integrated

Aderinoye

Science, as well as Guidance and Counseling were the major focal points of the training, which is to ensure that the teachers’ teaching and learning process was improved. Through the training the commission was able to improve the teachers’ level of interaction with pupils and the environment. Not only this, the training brought about behavioural change in both the pupils and teachers. Presently, we are set to produce more instructional materials in line with reviewed curriculum in the four core subject areas, which will be out soon. This is part of the support the commission received from UBEC. Also, through the support from UBEC, NCNE had been able to come up with statistics about classrooms that needed to be rehabilitated, as well as schools without classrooms where children are learning under trees. We have been able to put in place such data across the country and in the next two weeks we are going to embark on the construction of three classrooms across the country. The number of such classrooms will be between 30 and 40 so that the pupils will be provided with comfortable classrooms to learn and for the teachers to teach. Despite this, the commission is still faced with the problem of inadequate teachers, but we have been appealing to SUBEBs to ensure that teachers are posted to these schools and such teach-

Through the UBEC support we have been able to conduct capacity building for our teachers in the six geo-political zones of the federation

ers should be given incentives since most of the commission’s schools are in rural areas. You will realise that these children are in gazing reserves, which are completely isolated from the main cities. You can see that when teachers are posted there they don't want to stay. There is need to give incentive such as motorbikes and allowances so that they would be able to stay and teach the children. Also when we talk of nomadic education, the learners move from one place to the other and there is need to reach them and provide for their educational needs. In nomadic education delivery interactive radio instruction or programme is part of our activities whereby we reach the pupils in the classes through radio programmes. Our plan is to launch the programme in September by the time schools resume. We have contacted about six radio stations in Bayelsa, Enugu, Oyo, Adamawa, Kaduna and Gombe states. This programme is going to take-off by the time we have some pilot states where the pupils will be learning through radio. It is a kind of distance education programme which fits into our programme for the migrant fishermen, pastoralists and migrants farmers' children. This is part of strategies we put in place to ensure that the Commission provides basic education, create more access and increase enrolment in school and at the same time improve the quality of teachers, as well as ensuring that learning materials such as text books, pencils and others are available. More importantly, in the area of uniform, we have sent a proposal to the Dangote Group of Companies for assistance in providing the pupils’ uniforms. We are not asking for money, but we want to see if they can partner and help us provide uniforms for the pupils. We have about 567,000 pupils and about 17,000 nomadic

The Commission has been in existence for some years, why is it that it still has these challenges? It is a general problem, which is not peculiar to the commission alone. You can see the number of schools we have. The Federal Government is doing a lot. For instance, when we talk of basic education, the government set aside two per cent of its consolidated funds which is being paid to UBEC, and which regrettably the states are not accessing to provide better environment for the pupils. If we look at it critically, the provision of primary education is not a primary responsibility of the Federal Government and what it is doing is a kind of intervention through UBEC, Nomadic or Mass Literacy and other similar agencies. It is the states and local governments that are supposed to take care of this level of education, but unfortunately they are not doing that and that is why the Federal Government is intervening to support the states. In view of this, the issue of nomadic education becomes a serious one since the children are completely isolated. The regular school system is a bit easy to fund, but in nomadic system it is a difficult circumstances because of the problems of funding, inadequate infrastructure, inadequate qualified teachers because the system is the last to attend to in the scheme of things. Definitely, it is not that government has not been doing its beat, but there is need to improve on it. Like UBEC and TETFund which have consolidated funds, and looking at the critical role of the NENC in eradicating illiteracy, don't you think there is also the need for a consolidated fund for the Commission? When we talk of consolidated fund, we should realize that the funds in TETFund is the two per cent of the various companies including the oil and gas, banking and others which they pay from their profit to the fund to develop tertiary education system in the country. And for UBEC, the funds are disbursed to states, local governments and related agencies for the implementation of basic education. But what we saying now is the sharing formulae of the UBEC funds, and the need for the government to increase the allocation five per cent in which about two per cent could go to nomadic education and two per cent to mass literacy and adult education. This, to me, will avail the commission of the opportunity to adequately address the various challenges confronting nomadic education programme in the country. What readily comes to mind about nomadic education is that it is the education of the children of the Fulani cattle rearers, without knowing that it encompasses pastoralists, migrant fishermen and women and their children. How has the commission being addressing the issue of language barrier?

26 EDUCATION

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

US, Brume Foundation to develop pupils’ reading skills Victoria Ewoh

chool pupils have been challenged on the need to develop a strong reading habit and culture, which will broaden their horizon in all spheres of human and education development. The advice was given during the opening ceremony of the Annual Barrack Obama American Corner, by the Information Resource Officer of the American (US) Embassy, Dr. Malore Brown, which took place at the Ovie Brume Foundation’s Youth Center, Victoria Island, Lagos. The yearly Summer Reading Programme is being organised by the U.S. Consulate General, in partnership with the Barack Obama American Corner Lagos, to improve reading habit

Obama

among primary school pupils in the country. Brown, while stressing that it is important for youths to improve on their reading skills, hinted that it was through reading that children could

acquire knowledge to deal with various challenges in life, including academics. She said: “Interestingly, the exercise is free and open to pupils with attractive prizes on the cards for children who dis-

tinguish themselves during the programme. This exercise is opened to pupils who are willing to learn and improve their reading skills. So therefore, it shouldn't be taken as a joke but with all seriousness. Awards, prizes and certificates would be given out to best participating pupils and that person can be you." No fewer than 35 pupils from various primary schools across Lagos State were registered for the reading programme, which will run for three weeks between August 11 and 29 at the Ovie Brume Foundation in Lagos. The Lagos Coordinator of the programme, Lois Ekeleme said: "The Barack Obama American Corner has been running for the past five years in Abuja, and is in its third

year in Lagos, and having branches in Abuja, Calabar, Kano, Lagos, and Sokoto. "Our main objective is to improve the reading skills of children, because over the years working with Ovie Brume Foundation, we have realised that the children we have come across, lacked good reading skills and we thought about what we could do to build up their reading skills. That was how we decided to put in an intervention that could encourage them to read." Lois explained that secondary school pupils were restricted from taken part in the programme, since other literacy programmes had already been put in place for them which are entirely different from the programme we organise yearly for primary school pupils.

OPINION

Varsities ranking: What makes UNILORIN tick Kunle Akogun

he University of Ilorin recorded another feat recently with its ranking as the best University in Nigeria by world universities’ ranking agency, the 4 International Colleges and Universities (4ICU). The international higher education search engine, which constantly reviews the performance of accredited universities across the world, also adjudged Unilorin as the 20th best university in Africa and 1842nd in the world! For the exercise, 4ICU ranked about 11, 307 colleges and universities by web popularity in over 200 countries. Indeed, the new ranking is a veritable testament to University of Ilorin’s unrelenting drive for excellence, a due recognition of University’s commitment to uplifting the nation’s sliding academic standard with its stable academic calendar that has never been interrupted by any form of frivolous workers’ strike since the past 12 years. In the 2014 University Web Ranking, the University of Lagos placed second in Nigeria and 21st in Africa while the third position went to Obafemi Awolowo University, which also came 26th in Africa. This latest ranking is not fortuitous and it is not Unilorin’s first outing on the recognition dais. Over the years, the University has proved to be a centre of academic excellence. For three consecutive years, another international university ranking agency, the Web of World Universities (Webometric) had ranked our University the best in Nigeria in 2009, 2010 and 2011. To keen watchers of the University of Ilorin, who have consistently followed the single-minded commitment of our management, staff and students to excellence, the new ranking is not entirely a surprise. Indeed, many people, from national policy makers to high net-worth public commentators and independent

Ambali, VC

observers, parents and admission seekers are unanimous in their assessment of Unilorin as the veritable “best of the rest” citadel of learning in Nigeria. To be sure, the new ranking is consistent with the rising profile of the University in the past few years. Since 2011, she has maintained a steady presence among most preferred education institutions by prospective students. According to statistics obtained from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board (JAMB), Unilorin was the 8th most preferred university by admission seekers in 2011; 5th in 2012; 2nd in 2013 and 1st this year. After the last Unified Tertiary Institutions Matriculations Examination (UTME), JAMB/NUC statistics showed that the University of Ilorin was the most subscribed university in the country with a total of over 105,000 candidates seeking to enter the University in the 2014/2015 academic session. The University of Benin, Benin City came a distant second in this respect with about 76,000 admission seekers. The new ranking has also confirmed so many superlative assessments of the University in recent times by personalities like President Goodluck Jonathan, members of the National Assembly, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Finance Minister, Dr. Ngozi

Okonjo-Iweala; as well as the former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Judge Bola Ajibola. During the 29th Convocation ceremonies of the University last October, President Jonathan, obviously impressed by the University’s “stable and uninterrupted academic calendar for several years now”, attested to the fact that “this positive step, which has been the hallmark of this institution, has brought notable achievements to the University in all spheres of its endeavour.” Before then, in June last year, members of the Senate and House of Representatives’ Committees on Education, during their separate oversight visits to the University, spoke glowingly of the University’s giant strides, describing the institution’s stable academic calendar as “a great feat that should be emulated by all universities in Nigeria.” And in mid-May this year, during the flag-off of the University’s oil palm plantation and distribution of PC tablets to students, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala extolled the ingenuity of the University of Ilorin, saying the institution is “100 paces” ahead of other universities in the country. Also, in April this year during a visit to the University, a former judge at the International Court of Justice, The Hague, Prince Bola Ajibola, described the University as “the first on the list in Nigeria in terms of everything”, adding that the nation is always looking forward to the University's performance. “You are the pride of Nigeria”, Prince Ajibola added.

This latest ranking is not fortuitous and it is not Unilorin’s first outing on the recognition dais

It could also be recalled that for two concurrent editions of the NUDTAS Awards, the University of Ilorin showed unprecedented class by winning three of the 17 available awards in 2008/2009 and 2010/2011 respectively, leaving the remaining 14 for the more than 120 other public universities in the country to scramble for. But all these achievements did not just come from the blues for the University of Ilorin. They are well-deserved recognition of consistent drive for excellence by the University under the leadership of Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, who has, since assumption of duties about two years ago, left no one in doubt as to his messianic mission. Since he took over the mantle of leadership at the University of Ilorin on October 16, 2014, the renowned Professor of Veterinary Medicine, has not only tried to sustain the legacy of excellence bequeathed to him by his predecessors, he has also greatly improved on it, bringing on new innovations that have invariably ingrained the University’s name in the minds of many Nigerians and indeed foreigners who desire quality and uninterrupted education. The University has recorded many achievements in all spheres of its main mandate: teaching, research and community service. For instance, the welfare of staff and students are top priorities; excellence in teaching and research is uncompromisable; infrastructural development is receiving the necessary attention; excellent town and gown relationship is being promoted; internally generated revenue is being enhanced; fiscal discipline, transparency and accountability are getting the necessary fillip; and the University is already making a determined move, through its recently launched oil palm plantation initiative, to contribute to the nation’s Gross Domestic Products (GDP). One of the secrets of Unilorin’s enduring peace, stability

and progress is its uncommon blessing with a succession of purposeful leadership and a consistently committed workforce, joined, like Siamese twins, in a single-minded strive for excellence. This unity of purpose, more than anything else, has been the cutting edge of the University of Ilorin since over a decade ago. This culture of conscientious leadership and supportive followership is so contagious at the University of Ilorin that sundry staff unions have invariably become partners in progress with the management as against the cat-andmouse syndrome that often characterises the relationship between workers and managements in many universities in the country Only recently, the University’s Chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) pulled through what could rightly be described as a feat that is unprecedented in the annals of university education in the country with the commissioning of a N7.3 million hostel project that was wholly internally-financed by ASUU. And on the following day, Thursday, January 30, 2014, the same Union held a hitch-free Congress that threw up a new set of leaders in a classically seamless transition of power. The hostel project, which foundation was laid on Monday, August 5, 2013, by the ViceChancellor, Prof. AbdulGaniyu Ambali, was completed in a record time of five months. It is ASUU’s way of contributing to the reduction of hostel accommodation problems facing students of the University. Indeed, as the Vice-Chancellor said during its commissioning, the hostel project, the first of its kind by any Union in any University in Nigeria, has shown Unilorin ASUU as an epitome of exemplary leadership and purposeful unionism. Herein lies the secret of Unilorin’s greatness. • Akogun wrote from Ilorin.

EDUCATION 27

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Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Encomium as Olatoke becomes SAN Ali Toyin Abdul UNILORIN

or Dr. Joshua Olatoke, a Senior Lecturer and lecturer of Jurisprudence and International Law at the Department of Jurisprudence and International Law, Faculty of Law, University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) and the entire university community, it was a dream come true as he was conferred with the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) by the Judiciary Council of Nigeria. The elevation of Olatoke as SAN has added another feather to the cap of the university whose main vision is excellence and quality delivery. Olatoke is one of the 17 newly lawyers elevated to SANs by the Legal Practitioners and Privileges Committee (LPPC) few weeks ago. The letter conveying the award to Olatoke, and which was signed by the Legal Practitioners Privilege Committee's Secretary, Mr. Sunday Olorudamisi said: “It is my pleasure to inform you that at the meeting of the Legal Practitioners and Privileges Committee held on 11th July, 2014,

you have been elevated to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. The swearingin ceremony will be on Monday September 22 at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Abuja. “On behalf of the Chairman and members of the Legal Practitioners' Privileges Committee, we congratulate you on your well-deserved elevation.” While reacting to his elevation, Olatoke attributed his elevation to the support and the conducive atmosphere provided by the management of the university, which he said, enabled him to thrive. He, therefore, dedicated the success and promotion as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria to the university, even as the don said: “I glorify and give thanks to the Almighty God for reaching the peak of my professional career. The enabling environment provides me the opportunity to be able to use the talent that I have and to be able to appear in the superior court of record, because if I have not been able to get the enabling environment to appear before the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court, I will not have been able to get to that level.” He added: “It is because of

the above that I dedicate the success of my elevation to the university, for its support and goodwill, and I also pledge to strive to make the UNILORIN indeed “better by far.” Reacting to the award, the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Arowosaye, described it as “a thing of joy that will boost the morale of our students.” According to him, Olatoke’s elevation “is a testimony to his age-long dedication to legal practice and development of Nigerian Jurisprudence through legal practice at the same time through the teaching of law.” The Dean, who noted that many academics that have obtained the doctorate degree and, at the same time, are still in active legal practice, have The students with Ms. Oghuma, Mr. Atafo during the event the opportunity of being better in their performance when it comes to the practice, “because of the fact that they have thorough academic backgrounds" Arowosaye added: "He (Olatoke) will bring his experience to bear in his official responsi- Kayode Olanrewaju towards the programme, bility as a Law teacher. Apart even as she urged them to from that, our students also call has gone to female stu- avail themselves the once-instand a better chance of bedents in tertiary institu- a-lifetime opportunity. ing mentored and inspired, by tions to prepare themselves Ms. Oghuma said: “We somebody who has attained the adequately for hard-work on are glad to be a partner in peak of achievement in legal the completion of their stud- this initiative because it conpractice." ies to ensure their success in cerns the future of the girlSome of the students received life. child. When you train a girl, the cheering news with ecstasy The clarion call was made you empower a generation. and posted on their Facebook by the nation’s leading pay- When you expose a girl to a pages various reactions. TV provider, MultiChoice work environment, you asNigeria, during the “Take-a- sist her in her career choice, girl child-to-work initiative”, future life and engagements. initiated by the firm to assist The family, society and the in the development of female country become the ultimate swers include: have governors students. beneficiaries of this type of just discovered new sources According to the General initiative.” of funding education in their Manager, Marketing, MultiA Nigeria fashion icon, states? Is there no need for Choice Nigeria, Mr. Martin Mr. Mai Atafo, who took the quality education any more Mabutho, while welcom- students on “A career in fashfollowing the slash in fees? ing some female students ion”, in which he urged the Or has quality education sud- of the University of Lagos students to embrace creativdenly becomes cheap and af- (UNILAG) to the Victoria Is- ity as a way of life, encouragfordable? land head office of the firm, ing them to consider a career “If the Governor Amosu during this year’s edition of in fashion to boost the counrealised the need for reduc- ‘Take-a-Girl-Child-to-Work try’s economy and reduce untion of the fees, why must he Initiative, said the pro- employment. say the implementation must gramme is organised yearly “Consider the development begin from next session? What by MultiChoice Nigeria, in of your mind as opposed to we want is that the reduction partnership with the South your outward appearance. must be implemented in this African High Commission Grow from within and help academic session,” the Presi- and the University of Lagos. build a virile nation. Women dent of the OOU Students’ The 20 students, in their fi- are key to the growth of evUnion, Olusegun Ifade, told nal year, were selected from ery economy; that is why this New Telegraph. various disciplines including initiative is a very important However, the Chairman of Law, Economics, Mathemat- one for the organisers,” he the Ogun State chapter of the ics & Statistics, Philosophy, added. Committee for the Defence of Engineering, Psychology and DStv Marketing Manager, Human Rights (CDHR), Olay- English, among others. Mrs. Chioma Afe, who spoke inka Folarin, frowned at the While introducing the on the topic: “Is there still disruption of the students’ students to MultiChoice’s a glass ceiling for women?” protest by policemen, challeng- work culture, which he said admitted that there is a glass ing them (security agents) if was anchored on hard-work, ceiling in a woman’s career any of them has two or three honesty, integrity and team path. children in OOU where they effort, Mabutho said that MulShe noted that with deterare paying N305,000, and how tiChoice, though an employer mination, any woman could much is their salary. of equal opportunity, prides shatter such ceiling and rise Amosun, however, assured itself as a champion on the in her chosen career, even the protesting students that empowerment of the girl- as she advised the students the state government would child. “As you set your eyes to have more confidence in look into their agitations, on graduation, it is important themselves as they march saying the committee that that you begin to think about forward in life. reviewed the tuition fees will your career and what you will According to him, they reappraise the situation and like to do with your life once should determine what they feed them back. you start working,” he added, want to do early enough and As part of his commitment reminding them that hard start pursuing it, to learn as of his administration’s to stu- work and honest dedication much as they can because no dents’ welfare, the governor to your calling will pay off in knowledge is a waste, and to donated 13 buses to the Stu- the long run. develop a strategy for a baldents’ Unions of all the terThe Public Relations Man- anced home and career. tiary institutions in the state. ager of MultiChoice Nigeria, Responding the students “In the whole of Nigeria, Ms. Caroline Oghuma, ac- thanked MultiChoice and the only Ogun State has 10 tertiary quainted the students about South African High Commisinstitutions and this means a lot the initiative, their expecta- sion for the initiative, saying of pressure on the state govern- tions as well as MultiChoice’s they had benefitted tremenment. Our administration will expectations of them at the dously from the interactive remain committed to uplifting end of the project. sessions while they look forthe education sector and movShe commended the stu- ward with confidence to a reing the state forward,” he added. dents for their enthusiasm warding future.

How far can slash in tuition fees go?

CO N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 1

created by his predecessor, Mr. Segun Oni, with the then University of Ado-Ekiti, now renamed Ekiti State University, he also increased the fees which ranged from N93,000 to N191,500, depending on the departments and courses of study, as against the old fees of N50,000. Fashola in particular, had even mooted the idea of shutting government attention against LASU, saying his administration had actually acquired land and had approached the National Universities Commission (NUC) with a view to securing approval for its new university, which he claimed would be built to taste and compete keenly with global ivory towers in terms of quality of its programmes and serenity of the environment. To stakeholders, the failure of Governor Fayemi to win his re-election bid, which his political loyalists traced to his policies, must have pushed bothAmosun and Fashola, to reverse LASU fees after more than three years of students and other stakeholders persistent protests resulting to closure of the university several times The last minute decision of the Fashola’s administration to reduce the fees across board to the flat rate of N25,000 has glaringly shown that it is because the party (APC) wants power in Lagos and Ogun State, at all cost that made them reverse or slash the fees. Stakeholders said: “It was a big surprise for keen watchers of the evolving events at LASU including the students and their parents, to hear that Governor Fashola, who had at different times snubbed all

Obafunwa, VC

pleas to reduce the university’s fees, now suddenly turned around to announce a reduction even beyond the people’s expectation, just because he wants re-election for his party. “The students’ union and the various workers’ unions in the university while presenting their suggestions to the Lagos State Government had considered the reason of economic realities as advanced by the government by suggesting a reduction fees between N45,000 and N65,000 for returning and fresh students respectively.” Meanwhile, while the questions raised about whether the reasons earlier advanced by Fashola administration for increment in LASU fees which were no longer tenable, were yet to be answered, the administration of Governor Amosun, who since 2011 had turned deaf ears to the pleas by the students’ plea for reduction in the fees, also announced a new fee regime in the state signaling a new era for the students. Some of the questions the governors are to provide an-

MultiChoice tasks female students on work life A

EDUCATION | CAMPUS

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Wednesday, August 20, 2014

LASU fees slash: Students to get N500m refund Mojeed Alabi authorities of the Lagos Tarehe State University, LASU, Ojo, to cough out about N500

Cross section of some of the participating students

Isola Taiwo UNIMAID

t was a celebration of the richness of Nigerian culture and traditions recently at the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), as well as exhibition of talents and preaching of peace, love and harmony among Nigerians, when students of the Ivory Tower gathered together for this year's edition of the annual cultural fiesta. The event tagged: “Nativity Night”, was organised by the university's chapter of the Redeemed Christian Fellowship (RCF), which expectedly turned out to be the largest cultural event on the campus as it featured participants from many ethnic societies and groupings including Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, Kanuri, Ibibio, Urhobo and Efik, among others. In their characteristic manner, even despite the tense atmosphere occasioned by the threat of the dreaded Boko Haram sect, nor the threatening rain that night could deter the students from taking part in the ceremony as they gathered in their hundreds and dressed in their various native attires symbolising their respective cultural heritage such as wearing of beads, hats, varieties of caps with feathers, walking sticks and different styles of

UNIMAID agog as students celebrate cultural heritage clothes. The Yoruba cultural representatives were beautifully dressed in their traditional wears of "woven clothes otherwise known as ‘Agbada Aso Oke with ‘Abeti Aja’ caps to match, while the Igbo students sparkled it in their native Ankara robes, beads and various sizes of walking sticks, and the Arewa students were adorned in their Babanriga and native caps, with students from Ijaws stock wore their hats majestically. The Kanuri, Tiv, Igala, Fulani and Ibibio too were not left out. Each group carried its cultural symbols such as beads, calabashes, baskets and tubers of yam with elegance especially during their stage performance. The students danced round the campus before converging at the university's Ecumenical Centre, venue of the exhibition, where foods of various delicacies, clothes and many various elements of different ethnic groups were displayed. The drama group of the RCF performed a play, which reflect-

ed the need for unity, peace and love among the ethnic nationalities in Nigeria. While speaking on the theme of the event: "Unity in Diversity," the RCF President, Henry Emmanuel, from Abia State, said: “The purpose of this event is to foster unity irrespective of our cultural background. As you can see, all ethnic groups represented here today are allowed to display their cultural heritage. I want to encourage the youths to discover their uniqueness and be a blessing to others.” He said despite the security challenges in Maiduguri, the event was a success because of the students’ determination, noting that the event attracted thousands of students in attendance depicting the true reflection of a united Nigeria. According to him, the event was aimed at celebrating Nigeria, and not a particular ethnic nationality, even as it was climaxed with the sharing of native foods prepared by each ethnic group among the students. The high points of the day

were cultural performances with native songs, dances and pageantry with each ethnic tribe displaying their traditions, and performance by several guest artistes within and outside the campus. The students were thrilled and treated to an exciting moment which was hailed with wild applause and thunderous ovation. One of the students, Igotun Seun, said: “This event has added great value to my life by helping me learn how to relate with people of different cultural backgrounds. I have eaten three traditional foods from three ethnic groups. This really shows that what we need in this country is love and unity. Why should we be fighting ourselves; we are all people from the same root.” Similarly, Halima Galadima, who could not conceal her excitement during the Arewa cultural display, said: “I am very happy today. I feel at home once again. I interacted freely and saw how other ethnic groups celebrate their culture.”

How OOU students’ protest turned violent, by students

Abike Olubade

he peaceful protest embarked upon by the students of Olabisi Onabanjo University’s (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, last week, suddenly turned violent as soldiers allegedly shot canisters of tear gas at the students to prevent them from gaining access to the Governor’s Office in Abeokuta, the state capital. The students, who were said not to be satisfied that after two months of negotiation with the state government to reduce their school fees, took to the streets following Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s announcement reducing the fees by 60 per cent across board in all the tertiary institutions in the state. However, the protest was against the reduction of the N200, 000 school fees being paid by the students by 60 per cent by the state government.

The aggrieved students perceived the governor’s reduction of their fees as ‘political’ and untrue, especially as it would be effective after the 2015 general elections. The President of the Faculty of Social and Management Sciences, Omo Akin, who said the students were more infuriated by the implementation time frame, recalled that that was how the governor in 2011, promised a 50 per cent reduction if their school fees if elected, but only implemented a 10 per cent reduction when he was elected. The student leader, however, wondered if the students would again fall prey to the governor’s deceitful antics this time around, vowed to continue their demonstrate. He noted that the irate students however went berserk when on arrival at the Governor’s Office; they were attacked by suspected political thugs and

tear-gassed by soldiers and police officers who are security aides of the governor. Meanwhile, information was said to have reached the students before leaving AgoIwoye main campus of the university for Abeokuta, that the Special Adviser to Governor on Student Matters, Comrade Clement Olusegun, had allegedly mobilised thugs to attack them on their arrival. Omo-Akin, who said the threat, came to reality when the students were truly attacked by the hired thugs in presence of mobile policemen, who did nothing to protect the students. During the attack, Omo Akin sustained injuries on his head, while many others were wounded, saying this prompted the students to reinforce and challenged the attackers, who were already carting away their valuables.

To prevent further casualties, Omo Akin hinted that over the 2,000 students from the university took refuge overnight at the state Secretariat of the Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR) in Abeokuta. However, the protesting students, who condemned the 60 per cent blanket reduction school fees in tertiary institutions in the state, stressed that the fees was still very high and that the flat rate reduction was unacceptable in view of the fact that the tertiary institutions in the state were not paying the same amount. The students recalled that they had been on the negotiation table with governor in the last two months, insisting that the new fees regime should take effect from this current academic session and not from next session after the 2015 general elections, as announced by the governor.

million as refund to all categories of students who had paid the increased school fees. The refund follows the sudden reversal to the old rates, which was announced by Governor Babatunde Fashola, during the 19th convocation of the institution. This fresh fact was revealed by the university's Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Oladapo Obafunwa during his meeting with the students’ body to discuss the procedures of the disbursement of the refund. According to the President of the institution's Students' Union, Nurudeen Yusuf, the Vice-Chancellor at the meeting sought the students' cooperation on the payment mode. He said the money for the refund, according to the ViceChancellor is about N500 million, as the university has to liaise with the Lagos State Government to conclude on the procedures for the payment. Nurudeen explained: "We had met with the Vice-Chancellor last week Tuesday to discuss the ways and manner students who had paid the old rates would be refunded and the management called for caution and cooperation from us, saying the money was much and so it would require the approval of the state governor and Visitor to the university. "On the procedures to follow in the disbursement, the management said it was working on it and promised there would be no difficulty in doing that," he added. Meanwhile, as a follow-up to Nurudeen's success in the fight against the fee hike, the leadership of the students' union has declared his support for him to contest for the position of the Public Relations Officer of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS using the university's ticket. The election, which was scheduled to hold at the Delta State University campus, Abraka last week, was however postponed till September due to certain logistic issues. According to Nurudeen, the battle to reclaim the glory of the students' movement across the country had just begun and that the victory of the fees reversal should be credited to the tenacity of hope of an average LASU students, who he said had remained committed to the struggle even in the face of brazen harassment, intimidation and arrests. The student leader commended the governor for bowing to the students demands, saying governance is not all about arrogance of leaders, but ability to read the mood of the governed and be directed by such while taking decisions. He thanked stakeholders who supported the students’ course throughout their trying period and agitations

CAMPUS | EDUCATION 29 Muslim students chide govt for not developing youth

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Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Odeyemi Afis Olawale UNILORIN

he Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Professor Abdulganiyu Ambali has challenged Nigerians, especially the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and other security agencies in the country to be alertness about the spread of the dreaded Ebola virus. Describing the sickness, as “extremely deadly and terrific”, he noted that appropriate measures should be put in place to avert the virus being spread to the country by the foreigners like the late Mr. Patrick Sawyer, the LiberianAmerican, who brought the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) to the country. Ambali made this appeal during a courtesy visit by the Comptroller of Nigeria Immigration Service, Kwara State Command, Mr. Peter Aburime to him in his office. The Vice-Chancellor, who stressed the urgent need for the government to intensify preventive measures to check the influx of people with Ebola virus into the country, in the best interest of the citizens, noted that the university Senate had approved regular sensitization of the university community on preventive rules against the deadly disease. H, therefore, urged the Im-

UNILORIN harps on need to curtail Ebola virus

UNILORIN VC, Professor Abdulganiyu Ambali in a handshake with the Comptroller, Nigeria Immigration Service, Kwara State Command, Mr. Peter Aburime.

migration Service to keep the university abreast of government directives on the Ebola outbreak, even as the Vice-

Chancellor explained that University of Ilorin has 229 international students from 17 countries across the world.

To this end, Ambali reiterated that the “on time” support of the Nigeria Immigration Service is important now than ever before to check the spread of the disease. In his remarks, Aburime, assured the Vice-Chancellor and the university community that the Immigration Service is doing and would do everything within its powers to curtail the Ebola virus in the country. He disclosed that over 1,000 Immigration Service corps had already been trained and are being deployed to man the nation’s borders to prevent foreigners with the virus coming into the country. The Comptroller thanked the Vice-Chancellor and his management team for making the University a leading tertiary institution in the country, and for sustaining the existing cordial relationship between the university and the Immigration Service. A b u r i m e, h o w e ve r, pledged the readiness of the Immigration to continue to support the university in its drive to disseminate of knowledge.

OAU student leaders in trouble over Omisore's gifts Sikiru Akinola

wo months after the closure of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, the re-opening of the institution which is billed for next week is threatened. The alleged donation of a bus and an undisclosed amount of money to the students union has continued to stir controversy at the institution. A section of agrieved students have vowed to bring the wrath of the union on its leaders. The money and the bus were said to have been donated to the union by the governorship candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in the just concluded governorship election in Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore. Apart from the yet to be resolved fee hike crisis that led to the closure of the university in the wake of students’ protest, a section of the union has expressed fear that the university might be shut again. In the build-up towards the election, Senator Omisore as part of his pledged intervention measures during the fee hike crisis had called the leadership of the union where he handed over a 18-seater bus to the President of the union, Ibikunle Isaac on behalf of the union. There were also insinuations that Senator Omisore did not only give the bus, but also added N300,000 cash to the donation; the allegation that has been dismissed by Isaac. While some students see the donation as a Greek gift and ill-timed, others see it as

The controversial bus

the union's share from the "national cake." One of the students simply identified as Ezekiel felt the students leaders were not wrong to have collected the bus, saying it would ease the transportation problem currently facing the union. But in his own opinion, another student and 400 Level undergraduate at the Department of Philosophy, Olubanji Oluwole disagreed sharply with Ezekiel, insisting that the student leaders lacked the power to collect such ill-timed gift. He stated: "Over time, issues like this have always been subjected to the opinion of the OAU Students’ Union congress, but we are surprised by behaviour of those we call our leaders. If the Congress of OAU students could reject a similar bus donation from an alumnus, Mr.

Jimoh Ibrahim in 2010 simply for branding it in his name, I see no reason why the students' union should collect the gift from Omisore." Abiodun Aminat is a 400 level student of Biology Department who was visibly infuriated by the action. She said the student leaders have no moral ground to collect such donation from a candidate of a party that increased their school fees in the first instance. She argued: "Rather than tell President Goodluck Jonathan when he came for Omisore's gubernatorial campaign about the increment, they added salt to our injury. This same politician allegedly tricked us during one of our protests; that we should go back, promising that he will talk to Mr. President and the Vice-Chancellor about the issue. We relaxed, thinking that

he would be helpful but here we are wasting our precious time at home. Are they telling us that our many weeks at home is a waste?” However, in a telephone chat with New Telegraph, the union President vehemently denied the allegation of cash collection, saying the circumstances surrounding the bus donation was open to students, but that the time of its collection, that is, while the election was approaching and the fact that the students were not on campus, made many to read meaning to it. According to him, the need for the bus had become important going by the attitude of the university authority which withdraws its bus from the union whenever there is any disagreement between the union and the management.

uslim students, under their M aegis of the Students' Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State

Area Unit has accused the government at the federal and state levels of not doing enough for Nigerian youths in terms of mental development in order to achieve their potentials. This view was contained in a statement by the society during a media session as part of activities marking this year’s International Youth Day celebration. August 12 every year is being set aside globally as the International Youth Day by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 1999, to celebrate the role of young men and women as essential partners in change, as well as an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges and hardship facing the youth globally. In a release signed by the President of the society, Alhaji Kaamil Kalejaiye, he said "it is a known fact that the government at all levels had failed the youth of this great nation in terms mental development and provision of quality education." "You will agree with me that being a youth in Nigeria at this moment is not only tough, but also thorny considering the various challenges facing the youth especially in the area of unemployment and poor funding of education," he argued. The theme of this year’s celebration of the International Youth Day 2014, is “Youth and Mental Health” under the slogan 'Mental Health Matters'. The theme, it was gathered was aimed at raising awareness of the challenges and hardships facing the world of youth. Kalejaiye lamented: “On a day when the world celebrates its entire youth, it saddens our hearts that we in Nigeria are commiserating on the disappearance of our sisters that were abducted over 100days ago by the terror Islamic sect, the Boko Haram." As thorny as survival is being for the youth in Nigeria, it is provoking to realise that the level of negligence of our government is not helping matters." The students' leader, who charged parents to be watchful of what their children daily activities, noted: "There are lots of happenings in our society today that can distract and derail the youth from being mentally healthy. Therefore, in achieving greatness, guardians and parents must ensure their kids spend less time on the internet, avoid too much of television viewing, concentrate efforts on academic and goal-driven activities and above all, be spiritually conscious. He added: "It is pertinent on a day like this to also mention some of the anti-human policies that is being practised by the some state governments, especially Lagos State, in which over a year that majority of female students in the state-owned schools and parastatals have being denied of their fundamental human rights to “Freedom of Dressing." According to the group, the issue of Hijab in Islam is fundamental to the personality of female Muslims.

EDUCATION

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

‘Education should be for patriotism, development’ Kayode Olanrewaju

University of Lagos don and Professor Guidance and Counseling at the Faculty of Education, Department of Guidance and Counseling, Mrs. Ayoka Mopelola Olusakin has said that the primary purpose of education should be for patriotism and development. This was part of the views of Prof. Olusakin as the guest speaker at the 16th graduation ceremony of Grace High School, Gbagada, Lagos, where she noted that patriotism among the political class is the real reason why bad leadership, corruption and mismanagement have become impediments stagnating national development and progress. She spoke of the need for the country to develop a curriculum that will expose students to the core values of high moral integrity, discipline and love of fatherland. Her words: “We need to recreate our educational system to incorporate patriotism, discipline, integrity, and those

core values and traditions of the people which in the past contributed to the emergence of the nation’s founding fathers, who served the country meritoriously. The present situation where there is a widespread debasement of our value system is really an embarrassment”. Professor Olusakin, who wondered that corruption, has become so entrenched and rampant at all levels of government and facets of the society, which she attributed to unpatriotic leaders, regretted that the kind of education presently available to the citizenry is however not promoting patriotism. She added: “This is why we are clamouring that we need a new curriculum. We need a curriculum review to address social ills in the society such corruption and other criminal activities in the nation.” While congratulating the 53 graduating pupils, the don advised them to work hard and be diligent by planning their life, because those who failed to plan already planned to fail.

Prof. Olusakin, who also admonished the pupils to have a purpose and focus in life, however added that without a clear focus it is possible for them to go in wrong direction, especially if they imitate wrong people. On the need to allow the children to be free to pursue career of their choice, she advised the parents: “It is wrong to impose on your wards when it comes to choice of profession let the children decide what they want to do and it is only for you to guide and support them.” The special guest of honour, General Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), who was represented by General Abdul Tanko, urged Nigerians to be more united and join hands with the security agencies in the fight against Book Hiram and other enemies of national progress and development. The Principal of the school, Mr. Ronald Colliers advised the graduating pupils to return to the country after their university education to serve their fatherlands, instead of living abroad permanently after first degree.

Mrs. Unemadu surrounded by the pupils to cut the anniversary cake

Proprietress of Chrismercy Academy condemns child abuse Ewoh Victoria and Shadrack Yusuf

he Proprietress of Chrismercy Academy, Lagos, Mrs. ChrisJames Unemadu has advised parents not to engage in acts that could lead to abuse of their children and wards such as hawking, saying children are gifts of God who should be jealously protected. She gave the advice during the school’s third graduation ceremony, in which no fewer than 104 graduating pupils bade farewell to their teachers and school. According to her, the school, which against all odds recorded great heights in academics, has produced the third best pupil in private schools in Lagos State. She said: “Our culture in the school is to refine the pupils since they are future leaders. We don’t do this only in the areas of reading, writing and speaking, but also through inculcation of moral values with deep belief in cultural values and beliefs.”

She, however, pleaded with parents to accord priority to the training of their pupils, saying there can be no other legacy that could be bequeathed to children than education. While admonishing the pupils, she added: “Education is a passport to a better future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today. Always remember that an investment in knowledge pays the best interest. More so, inform them that - you are the world’s most valuable resource and the best hope for the future. Tell them that you are the greatest assets, who must be invested in because the dividends will be more than gold.” In a related development, the 2014 graduating pupils of Grandmates Secondary School, Okota, Lagos, have been advised to be good ambassadors of the school and always strive for excellence in their academic pursuit. Speaking at the valedictory service and prize giving day

ceremony held in the school hall, the Director of the school, Mr. Olusola Adepoju expressed gratitude to God for keeping the pupils safe and sound throughout their secondary school education in the school. He also acknowledged the parents for investing their time and money towards the development and education of their children, while noting that running a school is not a one-manshow, but a team work. He, therefore, charged the graduating pupils to brace up for the challenges ahead and look up to God in everything they do, saying: "The mountain ahead of you is surmountable if only you are dedicated and put God first in whatever you do." In her speech, the Principal of the school, Mrs. Toluwase Ijeoma charged the graduating pupils to always remember the wonderful experience they had shared together, saying the world outside secondary school was a big one, which could only be enjoyed by those with vision.

EDUPEACE

with Mahfouz A. Adedimeji (08066372516, sms only)  Dr Adedimeji is a Senior Lecturer and Director, Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, Unilorin

Big men, small character

ne of the best definitions of education that I often find enthralling, which makes me to refer to it often, is the one that construes the concept as the process of developing one’s three H’s. These H’s are the head, the heart and the hands. While the “head” concerns the mental domain of learning and the “heart” focuses on the affective, the “hands” concerns psychomotor skills or ability to do things, such as painting, typing, sowing, plaiting, etc. According to the experts, the head symbolises the intellectual faculties which include knowledge, understanding, application, analysis, synthesis and evaluation. The heart concern the faculties of social and personality characteristics such as values, attitudes, interests, adjustments, habits, perception, social relations and beliefs. The hands, on the other hand, represent the psychomotor and neuro-physiological faculties which concern skills acquired in manipulation, following specific procedures and body movements. The problem of our colonial education was that it relegated the use of hands, a significant component of the tripod of education. Rather than develop the hands with technical skills through which we would be able to develop the society, the colonial education sought to fill our heads with foreign ideas and precepts with little or no bearing on our society. As Babs Fafunwa puts it in its seminal book, “History of Education in Nigeria”, the goal of colonial education then was “to supply men for employment in the government”, “to produce men who will be able to carry on the native administration in the spirit of the government” and “to impart sufficient knowledge of Western ideas to enable the native to meet the influx of traders, etc., from the coast with the advent of railway, on equal terms.” This explains why emphasis was then on humanities, not sciences. Yet, as limited as the scope was, what people lacked in the use of hands was adequately compensated with the development of the head and the heart. That education produced the first generation of leaders that the nation is proud of. To a large extent, not absolutely though, educated people were men of learning (head) and character (heart). There are many of them who selflessly served Nigeria and humanity with dignity and integrity. Today, however, our education in is dire crisis. It is only the head component that schools focus on. Education which should serve the purpose of reformation of character seems to have failed woefully in achieving that end. The result is the stark reality of what Nigeria has become: a nation of big men and big grammar, small minds and small character.

The problem of our colonial education was that it relegated the use of hands, a significant component of the tripod of education Most of our big men and women in Abuja, State capitals and local government headquarters have only concepts and ideas stuffed in their heads. They ruin the society as a result of their lack of character, which consists of love, compassion, kindness, peacefulness, uprightness and good behaviour. Those that are elected or appointed to serve the public have turned service to selfhelp. Criminal accumulation of wealth, excessive indulgence in flamboyance and pathetic disregard for the common good are the traits of the “educated” ruling class. As the greed of the privileged few increases, the nation slowly bleeds till rivers of blood now flow across the land. The relegation of character in the scheme of education is not limited to the political class. It permeates the entire social fabric as morality is thrown to the sharks in the quest for lucre. Big men with small character say one thing today and its exact opposite tomorrow without shame. Chameleons! Gone were the days when parents warned their children to remember the sons and daughters of whom they were and not to soil family name. The jungle wisdom today is that anything that yields money, no matter how morally reprehensible, is quite okay. This is very unfortunate. Lawyers have no qualms holding briefs for confirmed criminals and vagabonds in power as long as the clients are ready to pay. Doctors can go on strike and watch patients die because of ego. We often read of vacuous minds promoted as celebrities telling us they can act nude if they get the right pay. Youngsters that should be quarantined as “social Ebolas” are watched on television assaulting our cultural and religious sensibilities with lewd lyrics, devilish dances and see-it-all attires. Exploiting the prevalent corruption of everything, they harangue the public and make a lot of money, which makes many innocent students wonder why they should be “wasting” their time in school when others are stripping and debasing themselves, dancing and singing to material success. I love the motto of the University of Ilorin which simply translates to “character and learning”, with the emphasis on character. This is because without character, learning is useless. It is when we complement learning with character or crown character with learning that we shall regain our lost paradise.

BUSINESS Wednesday, August 20, 2014

What's news Nigeria tops 74 ‘economically stressed-out countries’

Even with the figures being bandied around by government officials indicating that the nation’s economy is on the path of recovery and stability, a global survey has punctured the calculations, placing Nigeria at the top of 74 ‘economically stressed-out countries.’

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Europe imports 44% of Nigeria’s oil –Agency

Europe imports 44 per cent of Nigeria’s crude oil exports, the United Kingdom Trade and Investment (UKTI) agency has said.

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EU-ECOWAS pact: The implications The implications of the European Union – Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Economic Agreement (EPA) with all the West African countries excluding Nigeria, will pose more challenge to manage the domestic economy as from next year.

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Agents accuse Customs of sharp practices at port When a new policy, PAAR, was introduced last year, there was jubilation among stakeholders. Nine months after, Customs agents under the aegis of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) are lamenting over the implementation of the scheme.

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BUSINESS CREW AYODELE AMINU, Deputy Editor (Business) Simeon Ogoegbulem, Dep. Business Editor BAYO AKOMOLAFE, Asst. Editor (Maritime) SUNDAY OJEME, Asst. Editor (Insurance) SIAKA MOMOH, Asst. Editor (Industry/Agric) Godson ikoro , Asst. Editor (Money Market) JONAH IBOMA, ICT Editor DAYO ADEYEMI, Property Editor ADEOLA YUSUF, Energy Editor

FLEXIBILITY The Lumia Cyan update gives great new Windows Phone 8.1 features like a more personal Start screen Jonah Iboma

igeria is among several countries including Algeria and Egypt now receiving Lumia Cyan update on Nokia Lumia 520 and Lumia 720 handsets. Several handset owners living in India have got the Lumia Cyan update on their smartphones already. The development is coming as a seeming reaction to some undisclosed problems with the phones because the Nokia Software Update Tracker page still does not list the update available for the aforementioned devices. The Lumia Cyan update gives great new Windows Phone 8.1 features like a more personal Start screen, Action Center and the Word Flow keyboard. It also improves Nokia imaging apps. Nokia Camera, Nokia Storyteller and Creative Studio have all been updated. It’s the best Lumia experience yet. According to report by online technology website WinBeta, the update to the Lumia 520 is real. It said that Microsoft India had previously stated that the company will be rolling out the update to the said device within ten days. Nokia Lumia 520 is a windows-based smartphone, which has been positioned as an affordable medium level device. Some reviewers have

DOMINANCE A few stocks, especially Dangote Cement, determines the direction of the market Chris Ugwu

even most capitalised stocks in the nation’s capital market account for N8.505 trillion or 62.2 per cent of entire market capitalisation. The market capitalisation of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), the barometer that measures the value of stocks

31 NEW TELEGRAPH

www.newtelegraphonline.com/business

Land speculators liable for high cost of houses, says Afolayan }p-34

ayodele aminu, Deputy Editor, business

ayodele.aminu@newtelegraphonline.com ayodeleaminu@yahoo.com

Nigeria, others benefit from Nokia Lumia update complained about its operating system limitations that sometimes make it difficult to switch off the device after use. WinBeta noted that for people who have the Developer Preview of Windows Phone 8.1 installed on their handsets, the update is not ready for their phones just yet, as the company is still working on a fix. It advised that till then they could consider downgrading the operating system to Windows Phone 8. Microsoft, which acquired

Nokia in April, has been pushing new sets of mobile devices in recent times and also withdrawing others that are not performing up to expectation from the marketplace. Last week, it introduced the C130, a new low cost phone targeted at emerging markets, including Nigeria. The firm also said that it would withdraw Nokia Asha range of phones from the market. "Before starting the Lumia Cyan update, we recommend that you make enough space on your phone. Having about 1.5GB

free phone memory will ensure that your software update goes smoothly. To check for available free space, go to Settings > storage check (storage sense). In the below Software Update FAQs you can find detailed instructions on how to clear up some space on your phone and other tips to help you, for example if you encounter an update error." The Lumia Cyan update with Windows Phone 8.1 consists of two parts, and after the first update, the phone will automatically check for updates again.

(L-R): Divisional Head, Products and Marketing, Keystone Bank Limited, Yetunde Emmanuel-Yusuf; National Secretary, Children's Affair, NASFAT, Alhaja Ibidapo Folashade Usman; Executive Director, Corporate Bank and Treasury, Keystone Bank, Mr Hafiz Bakare, and Divisional Head North East, Keystone Bank, Asmau Tinuke Saadu, during the Financial Literacy lecture by Keystone Bank at NASFAT Youth Camp in Ikorodu, Lagos.

Seven quoted firms account for 62% market cap listed on the Exchange, stood at N13.660 trillion as at Monday. The stocks are Dangote Cement Plc, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, FBN Bank Plc and Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc. Investigation by New Telegraph showed that Dangote Cement led the top 10 league with N3.851 trillion, which is about 28 per cent of the market capi-

talisation. Nigerian Breweries Plc took the second place with N1.309 trillion, while Nestle Nigeria Plc occupied the third position with N879 billion. Guaranty Trust Bank Plc occupied the fourth position, accounting for N849 billion, just as Zenith Bank Plc emerged fifth with N756 billion. FBN Holdings Plc - in the sixth position, accounted for N477 billion, while Seplat, which occupied the seventh position, had N384

billion. Meanwhile, market analysts said that the implication of these developments is that a few stocks, especially Dangote Cement, determines the direction of the market. “There are about 200 stocks listed on the NSE, and if only Dangote Cement and a few others account for 62.2 per cent, that means that any price CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

WOLE SHADARE, Aviation Editor DELE ALAO, Brands/Marketing Editor CHRIS UGWU, Capital Market Editor Abdulwahab Isa, Finance Editor Chuks Onuanyin, Energy Nnamdi Amadi, Reporter JOHNSON ADEBAYO, Asst. Production Editor

Rates Dashboard INFLATION RATE July 2014.................................8.3% June 2014................................8.2% May 2014....................................8%

LENDING RATE

EXCHANGE RATE

(Parellel As at Aug 15)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N162.00 InterBank Rate . . . . . . . . . . 11.57% Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N262.78 Prime Lending Rate. . . . . 16.93% Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N209.50 Maximum Lending Rate..25.83% • Foreign Reserves – $39.59bn as at 15/08/2014

EXCHANGE RATE

(Official As at Aug 15)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N155.73 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N259.94 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N208.51 Source: CBN

32 business | NEWS CHALLENGES The country still grapples with some challenges such as income inequality, corruption, pollution and purchasingpower-parity Sunday Ojeme

ven with the figures being bandied around by government officials indicating that the nation’s economy is on the path of recovery and stability, a global survey has punctured the calculations, placing Nigeria at the top of 74 ‘economically stressed-out countries.’ The survey published by the news portal, cnbce, said that despite the fact that Nigeria is a country rich in natural resources, “it is also the country, which struggles most with poverty when compared to other African states.” The study indicated that there were many variables, which provide an insight into the reasons behind the stress experienced, such as income inequality, corruption perception, pollution, purchasing-powerparity and life expectancy. The official data indicates that 60 per cent of Nigerians live under the poverty line and five million of its total population was infected with the HIV virus. The current survey was conducted even before the first case of the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease was reported in the country. The study added that clashes between the Muslim and Christian communities of the country also exacerbate the difficult life conditions in the country. As the difficulty of obtaining potable water increases, deforestation also contributes to the country's

Nigeria tops 74 ‘economically stressed-out countries’ worsening life conditions. New Telegraph recalls that despite campaigns by the Federal Government regarding growing the economy, which was recently acknowledged as the biggest in Africa after rebasing the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), political instability, insurgency and high level corruption have continued to pull down all efforts in that regard. The level of conflicts and political violence have been described as of particular concern to investors. Renowned risk assessor, Maplecroft, recently gave the country an ‘extreme’ risk rating, saying that Nigeria received an ‘extreme risk’ in its conflict and political violence index (CPVI) for the fifth year running due to persistent insecurity, including increasing risks of kidnapping and piracy. The Country Risk Report for Nigeria offers investors the insight they need to navigate the country’s rapidly evolving business environment. It includes in-depth analysis of risks relating to governance, the economy, legal and regulatory developments, security, human rights, labour standards and the environment. The report is especially relevant to new company entrants or existing businesses across all sectors. The report also highlights ethnic clashes relating to land ownership disputes, which are prevalent in the ‘Middle Belt’ region where Muslim and Christian communities live in close proximity. Likewise, the Niger Delta continues to be beset by militant and criminal activities. There appears to be no immedi-

Seven quoted firms account for 62% market cap C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 1

changes in the stocks affect the whole market,” said the Managing Director, Crane Securities Limited, Mr Mike Eze, in a chat with our correspondent. This explains the fact that whenever there is a price movement in Dangote Cement, for instance, it affects the market. “The coming on board of Dangote Cement after the crash of the market enhanced the overall position of total market capitalisation of Nigerian Stock Exchange. So, any time the company coughs, the market index reacts immediately either up or down,” he noted. However, following the weak condition of the local bourse where a few companies control larger percentage of market capitalisation, market operators believed that the time is ripe for the Federal Government to heed the advice and toe the line of other countries who have enacted a compelling law for the listing of all multinational companies - especially the telecom sector doing business in the country. They noted that this is the only way to set in motion the necessary

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

machinery required to turn around the market. The Chief Executive Officer, Lamberth Trust & Investment Limited, Mr David Adonri, said that the revival of the equities primary market is a necessity if new listings are to be attracted by the Exchange. Adonri noted that modification of the listing and post-listing requirements can align the Exchange with international best practices, thus encouraging more cross border listings. The analyst, who lamented that the country missed the opportunity of compelling telecoms companies to list on the NSE when the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) licensed them, said in attracting major private companies that occupy the commanding heights of the economy to list, government must, as a matter of necessity, grant them fiscal incentives. Adonri, who said that companies list their securities in stock markets for several reasons but basically to have access to long-term capital, explained that capital formation is the essence of an efficient stock market.

ate prospect of cutting the links between religion and politics, a recurring theme throughout Nigeria’s history. In the same vein, a United States-based rating agency, A M Best, also put Nigeria in tier five (CRT-5) of country rating — the lowest score reserved for countries with massive risks for investors. The rating was based on the countries’ economic, political and financial system risks that are linked to factors such as increased terrorist attacks, widespread corruption and money laundering. Only recently, it was reported that Angola had officially surpassed Nigeria in exploration and drilling for oil and gas, an indication that its pride as the fourth crude producer among the OPEC countries is already being threatened. Meanwhile, the Chief Execu-

tive Officer, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, Mr Bismarck Rewane, has said that the nation may lose $3.5 billion to the Ebola epidemic by December this year if nothing is done to contain the spread of the disease. He noted that the fear of the disease had affected economic activities significantly. Other countries listed in the survey are South Africa, which ranks second on the list of most stressed-out states, as the country grapples with gender inequality and the violence that this inequality caused. The survey points out that in the wake of the economic crisis that South Africa has been experiencing since 2009, unemployment and poverty rates are on the rise, making the country more vulnerable and stressed. According to the data, El Salvador, which is fighting

against poverty, violence and human rights violations comes third on the list of the most stressed-out countries, and large numbers of its people try to immigrate to the US in the hope of better life expectancy. The poverty-stricken country of Mongolia, which is fighting with air-pollution and mental illnesses, is also high on the list, as the suicide rates increased sharply in the country within the last decade. Countries such as Guatemala, Colombia, Pakistan, Jamaica, Macedonia and Bolivia are among those, which have to grapple with huge problems such as drug trafficking, discrimination, a high murder rate, terrorism and poverty when compared with other countries, putting them among the most stressed-out countries across the world.

L- R: Group Head, International Operations, Fidelity Bank Plc, Augustina Akabogu, Executive Director, Lagos and South West Bank, IK Mbagwu and Divisional Head, Operations, Martins Izuogbe, at the graduation ceremony of the bank’s IOPS International Trade Finance Interns in Lagos.

PROSPECTS New opportunities are arising in Tanzania, Mozambique, Kenya and Uganda Bayo Akomolafe

urope imports 44 per cent of Nigeria’s crude oil exports, the United Kingdom Trade and Investment (UKTI) agency has said. It said that Europe imported 889,000 barrels of crude oil and condensate per day from Nigeria since 2012. The agency explained that it has become imperative to encourage UK firms to take advantage of export opportunities in Nigeria and other African oil and gas industry to win new businesses. It said that it was targeting “major investment projects and smaller and shallow water fields,” with a focus on providing support to firms that have

Europe imports 44% of Nigeria’s oil –Agency recently acquired major independent oil company assets. According to UKTI, British technologies, capabilities and experience that could benefit firms in Africa include major deep water development, floating production, storage and offloading and component supplies. It noted that many UK companies were already active in Nigeria’s market, Africa’s largest oil producer. However, the agency said that there were opportunities for UK oil and gas companies in Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique and Tanzania. UK business Secretary, Vince Cable, said in Glasgow that "UK oil and gas was organised, ambitious and working well with government to maintain longterm competiveness via the industrial strategy to maximise production of UK oil and gas resources and sustain and pro-

mote the UK supply chain here and overseas." According to Linex Legal, UKTI’s ‘high value opportunities’ programme, which focuses on “complex, large-scale commercial opportunities that can benefit from government-togovernment engagement,” can pave the way for UK supplychain firms to gain access to local markets, the agency said. It noted: “New opportunities are arising in Tanzania, Mozambique, Kenya and Uganda. In these countries, untapped basins and reserves are becoming more accessible as infrastructure improves. Opportunities exist for UK companies to get involved at a very early stage and develop these openings. Local supply chains in many areas can’t provide all the assets, equipment or services needed to fully realise the potential of the region.”

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

RESTRUCTURED The revival was made possible with the cooperation and support of NPA, BPE, NCS and other stakeholders Bayo Akomolafe

fter one year of considering the option of winding up its operations, Lilypond Container Depot Nigeria Limited (LCDNL), has revived its N2.4billion investment at Ijora, Lagos. In 2013, the company’s stakeholders complained bitterly that it had lost over N778.8 million ($5 million) in the past one year to drop in cargo volume, which started since second quarter of 2012, after it invested in terminal development, infrastructure,

Lilypond Container Depot revives N2.4b investment cargo handling equipment, safety and skill acquisition. However, the Director of LCDNL, Mr. Tristram Denyer, said the revival of operation at the terminal was made possible with the cooperation and support of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and other stakeholders. He explained that last year, LCDNL management considered, in consultation with shareholders, the possibility of closing operations. This followed an extended period of low business activity and un-

profitability at the terminal. Denyer stressed: “However, LCDNL has reviewed the position and value of the facility particularly in relation to its strategic proximity and service provision for the Apapa container terminal. “As a result of the strategic realignment with the ocean terminals and stakeholders, Management is now concentrating on providing a superior value added service whilst continuing to reduce costs for its extensive client base.” He said Lilypond management and staff have continued to offer superior Inland Container

L-R: Area Sales Manager, Ado Ekiti, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Taiwo Okunade; Brand Manager, Goldberg, Mfon Bassey, Ataoja of Osogboland, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun Larooye II and Area Sales Manager, Ado Sales Area, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Jude Edemode, during a courtesy visit by Goldberg team to the monarch in Osogbo, Osun State

FG urged to combat unemployment with agric Amadi Nnamdi

overnments at all levels have been urged to use agriculture and manufacturing sectors to fight the scourge of unemployment facing the country. An Abuja-based Economist and Tax Consultant, Mr Godwin Ukah, who made this call also drew government’s attention to the abundant potentials inherent in the two sectors. Ukah argued that the “two sectors that can arrest unemployment effectively,” stressing that agriculture and the real sector of the economy hold the key to Nigeria’s industrial development. The tax consultant who spoke shortly after receiving a certificate of “Distinguished Economist” award from the Univer-

sity of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), canvassed that “the army of unemployed in Nigeria can be absolved within two years if proper policy measures are put in place.” His words: The agriculture and manufacturing sectors can absorb the whole crowd. What everybody is running into is the service sector - banking, insurance, accounting and the rest. Nobody is going to agriculture or manufacturing. These two sectors hold the key to our industrial development.” He also urged government to, as a matter of urgency, revive the steel plants, especially the Ajaokuta Steel and the Aluminium plant in Akwa Ibom State. Ukah noted that steel and aluminium spice up industrial development, adding that whatever government can do to make

sure those plants are working will be in the best interest of the economy. On the issue of tax collection, Ukah commended the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for its innovations and pro-activeness, pointing out that the current turnaround been witnessed in FIRS started during the stewardship of Mrs Ifueko Omoigui Okauru, the immediate past chairman of the outfit. “She turned FIRS around for the better. Since that time, the revenue collection has shot up from hundreds of millions to trillions. But a lot still need to be done because every taxable person need to be brought into the tax net and that should be the objective of States Board of Internal Revenue and the FIRS,” he further stated.

Depot (ICD) service to the port community where efficiencies have improved with downward pressure on operating costs. Since 2006 when the compa-

ny won the concession for the Lilypond terminal, it has invested on people, safety, equipment, information technology and upgraded infrastructure.

Dealers tasked on gas supply James Nwabueze Abuja

of Central Bank Gwinovernor of Nigeria (CBN), Mr GodEmefiele, has called on various gas suppliers in the country to commit themselves to providing enough gas to power the various Integrated Power Projects (NIPP). Emefiele said this while addressing the investors during the monthly meeting of Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) with the Chief Executive officers (CEOs) of the various distribution and generation companies in Abuja. He said that the bank is working with NERC and other agencies of government to ensure that issues relating to legacy debt in the industry are sorted out and paid. He assured that he will “work through it,” while promising to raise the issues at the meeting with members of his board. The CBN helmsman urged operators to act as financial catalysts as the bank steps in to resolve the problem. Emefiele however expressed satisfaction at NERC’S efforts on the power sector reforms just as he encouraged investors and all participants in the industry

to remain positive, “fold their sleeves and get the job done.” He insisted that a review in electricity tariff is needed to accommodate market prices and associated costs like the price of gas. In his remarks, NERC Chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi, expressed gratitude to the apex bank governor for his efforts to ensure that the sector progress with adequate electricity supply to Nigerians. Amadi, however, noted that with availability of adequate gas supply, power generation capacity could hit over 6,000 megawatts (mw), which will lead to significant improvement of power supply nationwide. The NERC Chairman maintained that some already completed National Integrated Power Projects (NIPPs) could add over 2,600mw capacity to the national grid which is already at about 4,000mw capacity, adding that only about 600mw is operational based on the available gas supply. He noted that the power pricing of $2 for gas-to-power and a lack of clear gas contractual agreement is hampering the sustained supply of gas to the power generation companies and that has contributed to the several power outages being experienced.

SME operators laud NEC Simeon Ogoegbulem Abuja

and Medium EnterShavemall prises (SMEs) promoters commended the National

Economic Council (NEC) on its recent ban on the use of non-revenue officials for the collection of revenue and the immediate dismantling of revenue collection roadblocks on the nation’s highways. NEC last week directed the inspector General of Police (IGP) to dismantle all roadblocks mounted on the nation’s highways for revenue collection. NEC at the meeting also banned the use of non-revenue officers for revenue collection across the country and directed the Inspector General of Police to dismantle all roadblocks used for revenue collection. Until the directive, business operators have continued to la-

ment the activities of revenue agents on the nation’s highways. Operators complained that the activities of revenue agents on the highways add significantly to the cost of doing business in the country. Some of the SME operators who spoke to New Telegraph have described the move by NEC as the right step in the right direction and a major fillip for the economy. Managing Director of Lion Share Nigeria limited, Venai Okeukwu, described the decision of NEC as timely and highly commendable, adding that the move will free funds for operators to deploy to other areas of business. Okeukwu noted that the decision of the economic council would also go a long way in reducing the incidence of multiple taxation that has greatly impeded the rapid transformation of SMEs in the country.

FCT | BUSINESS WATCH

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Land speculators liable for high cost of houses, says Afolayan Chief Bode Afolayan is the National President of Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN). In this interview with Abdulwahab Isa and Keneth Tohembeth, he blames the problem of high cost of building in Abuja metropolis on the activities of land spectators. He also speaks on other related housing issues. Excerpt What is REDAN’s contribution to housing delivery? REDAN as you already know is the only organised private sector body responsible for the delivery of decent and affordable housing in Nigeria. REDAN came into existence in 2003 with the set-up of Technical Committee on Housing entrusted with the mandate to put in place affordable houses or to help the Federal Government realise the laudable program of making houses affordable for the people. In the last 11 years, we have succeeded in redefining the delivery of affordable housing in Nigeria. We have been able to build capacity among our members; we have been able to build institutional relationship between major stakeholders and government agencies and we have been able to cut down the prices of housing delivery. Also, we’ve been able to expose members to building technologies as well as expand the frontiers of construction finance. As it stands today, REDAN is the only organisation providing 95 per cent of affordable homes to the Nigeria market. Would you say that an average Nigerian really have affordable housing at his disposal today? The word affordable is a relative term. Relative in the sense that what is affordable to one person may not be affordable to the other. But on the average, when you look at our style of providing houses for the market, you will discover that members build houses in volume in an estate format. That alone can crash construction cost, and the fact that they built in the satellite towns is another way of increasing the economic viability of the people in those areas. If you build 500 houses for instance, you have created a community. You are also helping to develop the per capital of the people who live around those places. It is obvious that the consumption of basic needs of mankind will be generated there. So we are equally creating employment, because some of these houses from time to time require renovation or maintenance. When you look at the multiplier effects of an estate of 500 unit houses for instance, you have saloons, schools, recreation centres, stores and pharmaceutical stores, among others. The multiplier effect of these chains of activities will add value chain to the lives of the people living in and around the estate. What are the measures being adopted by your body to crash price of houses? We have exposed our members to the task of alternative building materials that would crash the cost of building a house without compromising quality. Recently in one of the estates, I used laterite, using hydrophone technology to build houses. In other places, members are using pre-cast to reduce cost while in other places members are using the conventional method, but because they are building in volume, it is reducing cost. But what we are now doing to mitigate the cost of building materials is that we have started relationship with manufacturers of major building materials. Recently we signed an MOU with Portland paint. We are already discussing with Lafarge, and we have met with other producers of building related materials with the aim of building a relationship that would afford us the opportunity to even get quantity discount on credit facilities, which is even cheaper than borrowing money. So these are things that we are putting together; some of them are even coming

up to develop their tuition to trade. The paint industry is coming up with their own facilities in attempt to reduce cost and create capacity among builders. We have also gone into partnership with the Nigeria Building and Road Research Institute. They are coming up with all kinds of research works in an attempt to expose us on how to do certain things effectively. Nigeria Mortgage Refinancing Company recently flagged off 10,000 unit mortgages. What does it portend for housing sector? For the first time we want to believe that we are going into a better era. We see this recent move as something that will develop the sector and we believe that it will have a positive impact on the housing sector because we are beginning to move from the past where we build houses on speculative market, believing that people will buy. You see a lot of adverts and a lot of houses vacant for a long time, which makes it not viable. But with the new program, government is coming up with strategies of enhancing demand, by making the mortgage sector more vibrant thus making interested people have access to mortgage. We are also coming to build houses for the need of a specific market, not just for speculation. So the new quota recently launched will give us an idea of what the market can absolve and possibly the kind of houses, the cost, location and the particular person that requires the house before we embark on the building specification. This is a good development. It will help supply, because when you have a defined market, your houses are almost gone at foundation level, hence you are already building for a particular person. So it is the best thing that has happened to the housing sector at this point in time when the cost of capital is very high, when the cost of running business is equally high and when there are other challenges of life that affect business environment. So when you have these things properly fixed, it is possible that you will have a defined market instead of just roaming about. I know that if I go to Sokoto there are 300 people who want three bedroom houses. If not for the opportunity of a portal, may be I would have ended up building my house in Kano where the market is already saturated which I only appraised because I don’t have the data, but on the basis of the fact that it is a city and the population is much. So we acknowledge government’s effort in providing this opportunity. Some stakeholders have decried the 20 per cent down payment as too high. Do you share their view? For me, that is talking from the supply side, but let me also see myself as a potential buyer. Anywhere in the world, financial institutions will set limits or conditions and those conditions are products of the economy. I mean products of the market. Here in Nigeria where it looks as if the risk is high, the legal framework is there, so financial institutions must ask for percentage that would cover that risk. But as we go into it, the market which is just evolving, I want to advise Nigerians that for now this might be the best we can have. You know when telecoms started, a call per minute goes as much as N100 but now gradually it came to per second and now the competition is high. For now that we have a vibrant secondary market (mortgage institution) and a lot

With the new program, government is coming up with strategies of enhancing demand, by making the mortgage sector more vibrant

Afolayan

of this small primary mortgage institutions, it may be very difficult to get anything better than what we are having now. In fact, what we are having now is more government assisted/private sector driven approach. But as time goes on, when the demand is much and the supply is equally much, then the market will definitely influence the price. At that time, you will see a lot of other primary mortgage banks say no, it is 15 per cent I will give you, another one will give at 10 per cent, and there will be competition. From the operator’s perspective, do you see the coming of the MRNC as a challenge to the Federal Mortgage Bank? Not at all. Even though the two organisations are targeting the same market in Nigeria, but when you look at the capital of FMBN, it is small. When you look at the volume of money available for them to take, it cannot take care 100 of their customers; and when you look at MNRC, no matter how much money invested into it going by the so called 70 million deficits. People came up with the same assertion when the Federal Government gave license to MTN, ECONET, and GLO. MRCN, for instance, may not be able to create one million mortgages in a year, and what is one million to 70 million? And every day the population of Nigeria keeps accelerating and the working class also keeps increasing and desire to have a house is rising. So for now, even if you have three to four of this, it is still inadequate. And, above all, they are working in different markets. The FMBN cares more for the working class because it is money being contributed by members (NHS) while the other one is targeting the middle class or the informal population of the middle income. The other one is driven by a regulated market and the other is working on a regulated market of 60 per cent; while the other one (MRNC) is working in a competitive market.

BUSINESS | MONEY 35

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

EU-ECOWAS pact: The implications Godson Ikoro

he implications of the European Union – Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Economic Agreement (EPA) with all the West African countries excluding Nigeria, will pose more challenge to manage the domestic economy as from next year. Unless the Federal Government takes steps to enlighten and sensitiSe the citizens on the content and tighten its borders, stakeholders said that Nigeria may wake up one day and realise that though it did not endorse the partnership, its economy will eventually be the final dumping ground for all European goods that will come into region as a result of the EPA. Dumping ground Given Nigeria’s porous borders, European goods will enter Nigeria through Benin Republic, Togo and Guinea, stakeholders have said. At the 45th summit of Heads of State and Governments – the authority of West African states decisively approved the economic partnership agreement with the European Union as negotiated by the chief negotiator on issues particularly on free market access offer and EPA development programme. According to the agreement, all the countries that signed the pact will open their borders to 75 per cent of goods coming from the European Union while the European Union will open their borders 25 per cent free duty to exporting West African countries. These duties have been programmed to regress to zero duty in 20 years time. European goods A wide variety of European exports, ranging from beef to processed goods such as beverages and clothing, would gain preferential access to ECOWAS markets and displace lower-cost competition from both rich and poor countries. Because those European companies would be shielded from competition from elsewhere, they could keep prices high. While the government sees precious tax revenue shrinks because of lower tariffs. The heads of government also encourages member states to sustain efforts to boost the regional economic performance and consolidate the common market. More specifically, the authority instructed the commission in conjunction with all stakeholders, to meet the implementation deadlines of the pending tasks. Noting that the EPA is a prelude to the ECOWAS single/common currency, the summit endorsed the recommendations on the convergence criteria, the streamline of the institutions and revised roadmap with a specific indication of the institutions in charge of implementation. It also has reaffirmed its deep appreciation to the President of Senegal for the decision and highly political role he played in the successful conclusion of EPA, a development – oriented agreement, which reinforces the West African integration process. Stakeholders’ opposition Nigeria, however, did not endorse the European Union – Ecowas partnership agreement. Historically, the at various stages in the EPA negotiating process, Nigeria had voiced a strong opposition to the agreement and raised concerns that the pact could lead to de-industrialisation in West Africa with serious economic and employment consequences for Nigeria given her 60 per cent share of the regional market and 77 per cent

Aganga

gross domestic product (GDP). Manufacturer’s Association of Nigeria (MAN), had premised its opposition on the fact that from all parameters, West African States, including Nigeria are not in the same level of economic development with any European country to warrant the conclusion of a reciprocal trade relationship espoused in the trade agreement with European union. Notwithstanding the status of EPA and ECOWAS common external tariff agreement, MAN had advised the government to insist on the incorporation of the 196 tariff lines, which the country had earlier recommended for reclassification in the CET regime in addition to the urgent need to design appropriate instruments that will take care of the 241 tariff lines that currently enjoy various levels of levies as protective measures in Nigeria. Furthermore, MAN cautioned that implementing the ECOWAS – common external tariff and the EPA market access to the EU in their current form, will negate the industrialisation programme of the government, especially the Nigerian Industrial Revolution plan (NIRP) launched last February. It would further undermine regional economic integration studies available to date. It also suggests that it could lead to loss of investment and revenue to the government including jobs. However, MAN said that given Nigeria’s aspiration to develop a virile manufacturing sector, it is important that she supports the adoption of a common external tariff (CET) and economic partnership agreement (EPA), only if they are industrialisation friendly. ECOWAS –CET, EPA configuration It argued further that the present configuration of ECOWAS -CET and EPA, especially the market access offer to EU are not in the interest of manufacturers and investors in the economy because it portend grievous consequences. At the MAN and Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) two days workshop on ECOWAS – EU economic agreement, understanding the issues and impact, the workshop had concluded that, Nigeria and ECOWAS must engage actively in the regional and global economy if it must lead the country and region in Africa. It had argued that the trade policy is not an effective way to address the constraints to businesses that come from lack of a business friendly environment, poor infrastructure and weak governance. It sued for a transparent and simple policy appropriate to the developmental needs of the whole private sector. If Nigeria signs the EPA, about 75 per cent of imported goods from Euro-

Obasanjo

pean Union will out –compete the locally manufactured goods, which are either similar or substitutes. Learning from Britain Nigeria could behave like Britain. At the wake of European common market that led to the creation of the Euro, the British government opted out of the regional agreement. Since then, the British government said that any country that wishes to trade with or come into Britain should comply with its laws and regulations. For instance, to facilitate the free movement of persons, the EU countries issue Sengne Visa. But British insisted that people must get the British visa, to come into her borders. The lesson for Nigeria is that while it has opted out of the EU-ECOWAS economic partnership, it has to update all its laws and instruments that have to do with trade. Ghana’s pattern In order to test the implication of the partnership agreement, Ghana had an interim experience. At the end, the Third Network Africa, the agency that carried out the study said: “Any decision on the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA) will trigger a range of effects on different actors. But the overall effect will be that Ghana will be worse off if its signs the interim EPA agreement. This is because the costs of signing the agreement far outweigh the benefits of signing the trade deal. At the same time, what can be saved from not signing can be used to meet the problem posed by not signing it. Specifically, in the absence of the IEPA, 70 per cent of Ghana’s current export to the European Union (EU) market will enter duty free. Of the reaming 30 per cent, which will face duties, the most important in terms

MAN had insisted West African States, including Nigeria are not in the same level of economic development with any European country to warrant the conclusion of a reciprocal trade relationship espoused in the trade agreement with European union

of trade volumes and values are: tuna, (facing 18-20per cent duties); fruits and vegetables (2.8 per cent) and cocoa butter and paste (4.6 per cent). If Ghana signs the IEPAs, these products will continue to enjoy preferential market access, and not pay the relevant duties. But if the EPAs are not signed, then, based on United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and South Centre’s calculations, and based on their current export volumes, these companies will pay a maximum combined import duties to the European Union to tune of $52 million dollars annually. In addition, by the account of the companies themselves, a maximum of about 4, 000- 45000 jobs will be threatened. The signing of the agreement will open up the market to about 80 per cent to imported goods from European Union. Since most of these European goods enjoy better conditions of production, and subsidies, they will out-compete domestic products which are either similar or substitutable. Even though there is an attempt to protect some domestic sectors by means of a sensitive list of products excluded from liberalisation, this list was drawn in a hurry, and is neither coherent nor rigorous. So, most of the sectors supposedly protected will suffer anyway. For instance, they cited the case of poultry, which is supposed to be excluded from liberalisation by being placed in the sensitive list. However, the standstill clause, by which tariffs are expected to be frozen at their current levels, also applies to the sensitive list, a provision, which seems only peculiar to Ghana. As is well known, the current poultry tariff of 20 per cent has been deemed inadequate to protect the domestic poultry sector, and provisions had been made for this to be raised to 40 per cent and a law enacted to this effect only to be reversed under pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). So, even though placed on the sensitive list, the poultry sector will still be undermined by reason of the EPAs, since one of the necessary actions to address the needs of the sector, raising tariffs, is not possible. To meet the challenges of the three export sectors, which will face the combined duty of $52million dollars, the government can raise the money out of its saving of $372 in tariff revenue to support such industries while their diversify their market. A significant number of countries are doing this, as confidential acts, including Namibia, which is helping its beef sector diversify while holding signature of the IEPA at bay. It concluded that the country and indeed the entire West Africa are vulnerable to the competition that the trade liberalisation and free trade would foist on West Africa. The challenge The challenge that the government will meet is to make sure that all the European Union goods and services, which will come in through Benin Republic, Togo and Cote du Ivoire will not get into Nigeria through our porous borders. The Nigerian customs have to be repositioned and programmed to check the porous borders through laws and trade regulations. Conclusion It is not enough to say that Nigeria will not sign the EU-ECOWAS Economic Partnership Agreement. The government should sensitise the stakeholders and the citizens to understand the dynamics of the agreement. It should take steps to consolidate all borders and establish a special task force that should check the influx of EU goods and services.

BUSINESS | THE INVESTOR

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

NSE trading floor

Chris Ugwu

he need for market operators in the nation’s capital market to adhere to the proposed minimum investment requirements to operate in the stock market or face sanction has continued to generate controversy in the investment community. While some believed that the initiative has become necessary if the stock market must be made to operate in line with what is obtained globally, others felt otherwise. People that belong to this school of thought noted that the recapitalisation exercise is being speedily pursued, so as to deny some right to key into demutualisation process currently on the front burner. But Exchanges all over the world including Nigerian stock exchange expects minimum standards for operators who wish to maintain operating certificate, hence, they must ensure that they meet the minimum capital requirements and also comply with all operational requirements. Previous failed attempts Recapitalisation attempts have been made since the last exercise but they have met a brick wall. In 2008, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), in collaboration with the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) directed the firms to increase their capital base from N20million to N1billion. It was also believe of the regulatory bodies that the firms would be able to meet the requirements to boost the market. But the issue generated controversy in the market, pitching market operators against the regulators. They considered the amount as too outrageous. SEC’s recent action However, given the transformation ongoing in the capital market with increased volume of transactions, the board of SEC recently in pursuant to section 313(6) of the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2007, approved the new minimum capital requirements for all categories of capital market operators. Following the amendments, the capital requirement for broker/dealer was increased from N70 million to N300million. For broker only, the capital requirement was raised from N40 million to N200 million; while for dealer, it was elevated from N30 million to N100 million.

Market operators’ new capital: Need for mergers, acquisition The minimum capital requirement for Issuing House was also enlarged from N150 million to N200 million; while that of underwriter went up from N100 million to N200 million. For a registrar in the Nigerian capital market, the minimum capital requirement rose to N150 million from N50 million; while for those in trustees business, the capital requirement was raised to N300million, from N400 million. Furthermore, the minimum capital requirement for rating agency was increased from N20 million to N150 million; while the capital requirement for corporate investment adviser remained at N5 million. From an initial capital requirement of N500,000 every individual investment adviser is expected to have at least N2 million as capital; while fund/portfolio manager’s minimum capital requirement has be raised from N20 million to N150 million. The development has received a public outcry as most operators faulted the move, suggesting that the stock broking firms’ minimum capital should be determined by the level of business they want to do. But the regulators have remained irrevocable in their resolve to ensure that operators meet the requirements, as many of them are currently inactive. NSE’s position That was why the NSE said recently that it would revoke license of any dealing member that is not active for six months. This was part of the new amendments the NSE is making to its rules. While there are some stockbroking firms, which have not been active for years, their licenses have remained with them. However, in apparent move to reduce the number of dormant market operators, the NSE is proposing an amendment to its rule regarding revocation of inactive dealing members. According to the amendment, under no circumstances shall a dealing member cease to carry out its day-to-day busi-

ness activities for which it was licensed to operate without any reasonable cause. “Where a dealing member is inactive for a period of six consecutive months, the Exchange shall revoke the license of the dealing member,” the NSE said. The Exchange explained that a dealing member shall be considered inactive if the firm has not recorded any trading activity without being suspended by the Exchange or the SEC, which is voluntary. Option for M & A Following the non-going back posture of the recapitalisation, some financial analysts have envisaged an industry-induced mergers and acquisition among the market operators in the country. What this will do according to them, is to form synergy and try to combine strengths of the big ones and weaknesses of the smaller ones to ensure economic of scale because there are so many of them that don’t have the capacity to survive under tougher terrain. The Institute Capital Market Registrars (ICMR) advised market operators to seek the option of mergers and acquisition to enable them meets the new capital requirements. The President/ Chairman of the Council, ICMR, Mr. Bayo Olugbemi in an exclusively interview with New Telegraph, said the industry is highly fragmented with most of operators lacking both human and capital capacity. He said: “I always advise that there is room for mergers and acquisition. What the regulators are doing is to strengthen

the liquidity base of the operators. “I’ll rather be a one per cent owner of a living company than to be a 60 per cent shareholder of a dying rated company. There is nothing wrong in mergers and acquisition. Though partnership in Nigeria is tough, we always want to do it alone but if you want to go faster go alone, if you want to go far go with other people. “If you look at your company in five years or 10 years and you are not satisfy, take the option of synergy, merge or acquire. If you can’t do it alone, call others to come and join you because together the better, the more the merrier. We encourage people to go into mergers and acquisition if they cannot do it alone since the Securities and Exchange Commission has said there is no going back in recapitalisation.” Also, the Managing Director, Crane Securities Limited, Mr. Mike Eze, said he foresees the new capital requirements heralding an era of mergers and acquisition among existing firms to produce stronger institutions. He told New Telegraph that the recapitalisation will witness possible mergers and acquisition, which will lead to the reduction in the number of broking firms. According to Eze, there will be apathy on the part of brokers, which will translate into unemployment because of the massive unemployment that will follow. “The labour market is going to be further inflated a number of people that will be retrenched in the broking firms,” he said

The capital market industry is highly fragmented with most of operators lacking both human and capital capacity”

Conclusion Although the future of the local bourse is still cloudy due to several factors such as persistent low investors’ confidence, liquidity squeeze and the current politics - induced uncertainty in the economy, there are hopes that investors would end this year better than last year if the Exchange resolves to ensure that operators at least maintain the required minimum standards.

BUSINESS | BRANDS & MARKETING 37

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Touching Lives: 90,000 entries thrill Airtel

he management of Airtel has said it is thrilled by over 90,000 entries from well-meaning Nigerians across the country barely one month after launching its revolutionary Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

programme, Touching Lives. According to Airtel, the bulk of the entries received are passionate pleas, nominating disadvantaged persons or group of people needing help; major community problems requiring urgent intervention and other

Lenovo raises profile with new Yoga Tablet O

ne of the largest PC companies in the world, Lenovo, is raising its brand profile in Nigeria as it launches a new tablet in the market. Lenovo recently confirmed the availability of Yoga Tablet 10 HD+ in gold and silver at Slot and Microstation outlets in Nigeria. According to a statement from the company, the multimode Android Yoga tablet 10 HD+, with its incredible battery of up to 18 hours, incorporates the latest technologies. It is also staying consistent with its brand image “The new Lenovo Yoga Tablet comes with a 20/20 vision display graphics, as well as a full HD resolution, which makes movies and photos look crystal clear and more like real life. With the new Smart Display, the tablet automatically adjusts the images and text on the screen to the ambient light, making it gentle on users’ eyes in all its modes,” the statement said. It added: “Built for accessing multimedia on the go, apps and files load quickly thanks to its new Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor. The new Lenovo Tablet also features rich Dolby audio sound, 10 point multitouch, a micro USB port, a new high defi-

nition 8MP rear camera and an optional keyboard. The tablet’s signature three modes – Hold, Tilt and Stand – continue to give users a better way to use the tablet in nearly any situation. The tablet’s unique cylindrical battery allows them to hold it for reading or browsing the Internet, or they can place it in Tilt Mode for a better viewing angle on a desk or table.” The Lenovo Yoga, according to the statement, also has a new special package of “DOit” apps for effective sharing, synching and protecting data. “With ‘SHAREit,’ users can instantly share pictures, videos, music files, documents, contacts and even apps with up to five devices without an Internet connection. It wirelessly transfers information between devices at up to 40 times faster than Bluetooth. “SECUREit” optimises and protects users’ mobile data with its menu of data-protection tools. With a single touch, it protects against viruses, spam and malware, and if the tablet becomes lost or stolen, anti-theft protection locks it down,” the statement said. Lenovo is a US$39 billion personal technology company, serving customers in over 160 countries.

Sona Agro Allied Foods expands biscuit production manufacturer of bisApuffleading cuits, cream wafer, seasoned corn and multi cereal bars

in Nigeria, Sona Agro Allied Foods, has boosted its production capacity in biscuits with the installation of a new soft and hard biscuits production lines from Europe to meet the growing demand of its customers. Speaking at the unveiling of the new production lines at the company’s factory in Ota factory, Managing Director, Sona Agro Allied Foods, Mr Subramanian Murugesan, said: “We are pleased with the high demand we’ve seen for our quality products over the past few years. This demand, which keeps increasing year upon year has necessitated the expansion of our lines to meet demands. With this development, we will also be to increase our product variety to Nigerian consumers.” He added: “Our investment in this factory and the continuous upgrading of equipment and expansion of production facilities is a vote of confidence

on the Nigerian economy. We believe that there is huge market for our products and we are already planning for future expansion in other product portfolios also. We also see Nigeria as the export hub of products to other parts of Africa in future. We quite focused on our vision of producing top quality products for the world from here.” Murugesan said that with the newly installed lines, his firm will expand its offerings in the fast growing snack segment by introducing more range of hard dough biscuits varieties, including favourites like Sona Rich Tea, Crackers and Sona Marie, among others. These will complement the existing soft dough biscuits which the company has launched like Sona Aktive, Malty, Snowy, Digestives and Wafer biscuits with Vanilla cream, in addition to the varieties of Cheese and Chicken seasoned Puff corn, Corny Multi Cereal Bar Which are also in Nigerian market.

special cases ranging from health issues, scholarships, and renovation of schools, economic empowerment interventions and skill acquisition programme, among several others. On the high success rate of the on-going call for entries, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of Airtel Nigeria, Segun Ogunsanya, described the response from Nigerians as massive and highly encouraging, saying it underscores the trust and confidence many people have for the programme. He said: “We are thrilled by the interest, excitement and

level of participation of Nigerians in our Touching Livesprogramme. Without a doubt, this indicates that we have the enormous support of well-intentioned Nigerians just as it is a glowing testimony to the fact that we are on the right path with the Touching Lives programme. “The massive response,” Ogunsanya explained, “clearly shows the enormity of challenges facing our people and the need to provide support for the less privileged no matter how little because “a little help will go a long way in making a

difference in the lives of others or the community,” he added. Airtel Touching Lives seeks to identify underprivileged persons with specific challenges, pains and struggles with the ultimate objective of helping to empower and enrich the lives of these individuals. Airtel Touching Lives Season 1 is scheduled to run on both satellite and terrestrial TV stations as a 13-week series with a weekly feature of two individual stories of beneficiaries of the project. It opens with a call for entries from the focus groups over a period of four weeks.

The Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON), Alhaji Garba Kankarofi (left), presenting a book, Code of Advertising Practice, to the new Chairman, Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), Kelechi Nwosu, when the latter and his team paid a courtesy visit to APCON in Lagos

Contestants laud Maltina Dance All 8 auditions ten thousand contesOthever tants who participated in Maltina Dance All 8 audi-

tions show have praised the brand for putting together fun-filled and rewarding auditions, which visited three major cities of Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja. The 2014 edition tagged “The Rhythm of Happiness” which chronicles a new dance style known as Rhythm of Happiness Dance (ROHD) produced 48 winners from the age grade categories who won various gift items and 28 winners in the “family representative” category. These 28 family represen-

tatives will perform alongside their families and after successfully scaling the medical and physical test hurdles, they would be admitted into the famous Maltina Academy where they would learn various dance styles from across the world. Only ten families would be admitted and they stand a chance of winning the whopping N10 million star prize. An elated staff of National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) who featured at the Abuja region, Bola Oguntola, expressed satisfaction with the audition and the opportunity to interact and bond with friends and families.

The Senior Brand Manager, Maltina, Mr Adewole Adedeji, who was excited about the huge turn out and quality of dance styles at the audition venues, lauded the zest and energy displayed by the contestants, commenting that the academy for the MDA8 will be a ground of wit and strength even as the show promote bonding and sharing of happy time with families. After the conclusion of the regional auditions, Nigerians and fans of the show are set to witness the greatest dance battle of all time when the show begins in earnest in September.

PR practitioners to discuss electoral violence Relations practitioners Pof ublic in Lagos under the aegis the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Lagos State chapter, will discuss curbing electoral violence in Nigeria during the Institute’s 25thAGM/Public Lecture. Headline speaker of this year’s public lecture is the Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Alhaji Attahiru Jega. He will speak on the theme: Curbing Electoral Violence in Nigeria: The public relations dynamics at the Media Centre,News Agency of Ni-

geria, (NAN), National Arts Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos on September 4, 2014. The public lecture which will be chaired by Chief FassyYussuf, will feature the Inspector General of Police, Suleiman Abba and Commandant, Nigerian Army College of Logistics, Lagos, Major Gen. Abubakar Gana, will deliver sub-theme papers entitled: “The role of law enforcement agents in curbing electoral violence in Nigeria; and “The role of Nigerian Army in democracy,” respectively. Prof Ralph Akinfeleye, Prof Akin Oyebode and Dr. Joe

Okei-Odumakin are eminent discussants. Royal Father of the day is HisMajesty, Oba AdedokunAbolarin, Aroyinkeye 1, The Orangun of Oke-Ila, Orangun, Osun State. The 25th AGM activities will start with a Special InterReligious Thanksgiving Prayer for the Institute and the Nation. It will be followed by a Novelty Football Match between Lagos NIPR and Nigerian Union of Journalists, (NUJ), Lagos State Chapter at the TeslimBalogun Stadium,Surulere, Lagoson Saturday August 30, 2014.

38 BUSINESS

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Agents accuse Customs of sharp practices at port W

hen a new policy, PAAR, was introduced last year, there was jubilation among stakeholders. Nine months after, Customs agents under the aegis of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) are lamenting over the implementation of the scheme. At an enlarged meeting of the association in Lagos, it was learnt that Customs officials were using the avenue to extort licensed customs agents. They lamented the challenges on PAAR, especially as it concerns the quantity and value of cargoes. Anti-trade issues The association said that virtually all customs units were operating independently at cross purposes in the cargo clearance process, which retards cargo delivery and adds to demurrage and rent at the various ports. Its members condemned the incessant querying of cargoes by Customs Investigation Unit (CIU) based on low value, as well as inflation of values payable on consignments at various commands, saying that this is highly criminal. They alleged that Customs management refused to publish data value of all cargoes on the internet in order to make it accessible for all freight forwarders, alleging that Zenith Bank and Diamond Bank were demanding N10,000 from clearing agents before their PAARs could be processed and transmitted to the Customs. Wrong implementation National President of the association, Prince Olayiwola Shittu, recalled that his members had stood beside the customs for nine months in the implementation of PAAR irrespective of those who criticised it for pecuniary interests. Shittu, however, said that ANLCA was ready to step on toes unless the right thing is done. Also, the Coordinator, Board of Trustees of the association, Alhaji Taiwo Mustapha, condemned the payment of 25 per cent penalty on every PAAR document queried by the customs. He advised that the customs should stop blocking of cargo manifest one hour after it was keyed into the customs system. Also, former chairman of Tin Can chapter, Dr. Farinto Kayode, said that the Customs PAAR was a final document

lIndict banks Customs agents in shipping are not happy with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) over the implementation of the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) introduced last year to facilitate trade at ports and borders. They insist that extortion, incessant querying of cargoes, blocking of cargo manifest, re-routing of PAAR documents, inflation of values payable on consignments among others, are killing trade facilitation, BAYO AKOMOLAFE reports

Dikko

as far as value of cargo is concerned. He noted that customs could only query PAAR based on quantity. Dr. Kayode condemned the re-routing of PAAR document by customs officers to the tune of N30,000 as it is being done presently. Comptroller-General’s position Farinto stressed: “The CGC has said that PAAR is a final document, but we understand that PAAR is now being rerouted to the tune of N30,000 and our members are suffering. “If there is no discrepancy in quantity, nobody has the right to query PAAR, the CGC cannot be everywhere, but there are some officers trying to sabotage his efforts. “PAAR can be queried based on quantity or wrong declaration, but it cannot be queried based on value, whoever is doing that is a criminal,” he said. Also, Chief Taiye Oyeniyi, a board member of the association, alleged that Customs was using PAAR against Customs agents after the association had fought for it. He advised that all queries on the value of a PAAR should be trashed out at command levels.

Olayiwola-Shitu

it is still in the bank and the customs takes the blame.”

PAAR is rolling out smoothly and before the importer gets home after processing his Form M, the PAAR will be ready before that same night Allegation against banks Farinto explained that before PAAR, the bank must upload the major document to Customs server, but that the document could remain at the bank forever if the owner fails to pay the N10, 000 being demanded by these banks. He alleged: “Two banks are collecting money from our members. If you don’t give them this money, they will not upload your documents; Zenith and Diamond Bank, it is unfortunate that I don’t have the power, I would have written them off. “They collect N10,000 to upload your document, most of the time, when you think your document has been uploaded,

ANLCA's problem However, Farinto accused executives of the association at the Tin Can chapter of colluding with the officials of NCS to promote unfriendly policies at the detriment of the generality of all members. He accused the Tin Can Island Customs Command of allegedly disobeying the directive of the Customs Comptroller General, Alhaji Dikko Inde Abdullahi, that all Query and Amendment Unit at every command should be scrapped while valuation unit should treat all post-modification about PAAR. He noted: “At Tin Can, they are still using query and amendment to extort our members. The annoying part is that it is even our executives that are collecting money to say they are re-routing PAAR, you can re-route PAAR, but why must you re-route your document to the tune of N40,000. Our executives have failed us at the various chapters.” Challenges of PAAR Prior to these problems, Chairman of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry

(LCCI), Mrs Julie Ogboru, had said that the Customs’ PAAR scheme was facing a lot of problems, making cargo clearing a Herculean task at the port terminals. This year, over 2,000 containers were trapped at the seaports in Lagos due to poor implementation of the scheme. Stakeholders bemoaned Customs for laying emphasis on revenue generation rather than trade facilitation at the seaports and borders. Although NCS announced in April that 28,861,000 PAAR were released to facilitate trade at the Lagos Port Complex in Apapa. To avoid further complication in trade facilitation, the service admitted 114 companies into the Fast Track concession platform created in the enhanced PAAR system. The beneficiaries are the local manufacturing companies, multinationals, automobile companies, telecom operators and super-market retail outlets. The Customs Area Controller of the Apapa Area1 Command, Mr Charles Edike, said that in most cases, PAAR was issued within hours, even before the importer gets to his destination. Edike disclosed that the backlog of PAAR encountered by the command had been resolved, adding that the technological input being used before now was the major problem of the command. He noted that the teething problems that were associated with PAAR would come to an end soon. “Initially, when we were dealing with the 99,000 Form ‘M’ that were not perfected by the service providers alone is enormous task for us and when you add that to the teething problem of PAAR itself, then certainly you will understand the kind of challenge the service will be faced with. “We are happy that PAAR is coming out beautifully and I must say that we are coming out of the storm gradually and as we speak, PAAR is now being transmitted with ease, PAAR is rolling out smoothly and before the importer gets home after processing his Form M, the PAAR will be ready before that same night,” Edike said. He also said that the service was serving the entire nation, sub region and neighbouring countries as regards import, adding that Nigerian market was not for the country alone but for other neighbouring states.

BUSINESS | MARITIME

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

COORDINATION Stakeholders stressed the need for business coordination at port to reduce cargo dwell time Stories by Bayo Akomolafe

he Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has frowned at excess port charges and increase in cargo dwell time at the nation’s seaports. NSC said that it was imperative to eliminate unnecessary charges, rent seeking, delay in

Shippers’ Council flays excessive tariffs at port

lDeploys officers to monitor terminals delivery of cargoes and under table dealing that hinders efficient trade transaction. Its Executive Secretary, Mr Hassan Bello, told terminal operators during a familiarisation visit to ENL Consortium and Ports and Cargo Handling

Services (PCHS) in Apapa, Lagos, that the council as an economic regulator was in charge of supervising the channelling of the economic gains of ports concession. He noted that the ports economy should be efficient,

L-R: Consultant Nigerian Army School Public Relations and Information (NASPRI), Marce Anyanwu; Commandant NASPRI, Col John Agim; Managing Director Nigerian Ports Authority, Habib Abdullahi; Deputy Commandant NASPRI, Lt Col Tukur Gusau; Asst.General Manager Public Affairs Nigerian Ports Authority, Musa Iliya, and Special Assistant to Managing Director Nigerian Ports Authority, Abdullahi Buhari, during a courtesy visit by NASPRI Commandant, to the MD NPA at the corporate headquarters, Marina, Lagos.

Shipping career summit holds tomorrow in the maritime Sintakeholders industry are to converge Warri tomorrow for the eighth edition of the Annual Shipping Career Summit. The event, which will hold at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, Warri, Delta State, is being organised by Ships and Ports Communication Company Limited. Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr Bolaji Akinola, said that the summit was created to enlighten Nigerians on the various career and investment opportunities that abound in the nation’s maritime sector. He also explained that the summit would empower participants, especially youths, to take advantage of such opportunities through mentoring. He noted that Nigerians should ordinarily not have any business with poverty or unemployment, considering the country’s vast resources, especially her enormous maritime potentials. Akinola stressed: “The maritime sector is where every attention should now be focused. Those who rule the seas rule the world. If we truly desire to become one of the top

20 economies of the world by 2020, we must pay closer attention to our maritime sector. “Nigeria’s maritime sector is endowed with enormous natural resources which provide great potentials and opportunities necessary to achieve sustainable growth and development. Our country is blessed with a vast coastline of about 850 kilometres and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of well over 300,000 square kilometres. “The country also has navigable inland waterways of 3,000 kilometres, eight major seaports, 11 oil terminals, and over 170 private jetties, as well as six major Inland Container Depots (ICDs), and two Inland Freight Stations.” Giving an insight into the genesis of the summit, he said that its maiden edition was held at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, in July 2006 while the second edition held in July 2007, third edition held in July 2008 and the fourth edition in June 2009 where held in Abuja, Ibadan and Ilorin respectively. He added that the summit had also been hosted in Abeokuta, Yenagoa and Makurdi in 2010, 2011 and 2012 respec-

tively. The chief executive officer said that Warri was chosen for this year’s event because of the large population of youths in the area. He explained: “It is a natural maritime domain with ports in Warri, Koko and Burutu; a maritime university; several maritime training institutions; the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency’s (NIMASA) shipyard and several shipping operations domiciled in the state.” Resource persons at the seminar include former President of the Nigerian Association of Master Mariners (NAMM), Captain Adewale Ishola; Honorary Secretary, Institute of Marine Engineering Science, and Technology (IMarEST), Engineer Alex Peters; and President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Mrs. Jean Chiazor-Anishere. Other speakers at the oneday event include the Executive Secretary of Nigeria Shippers’ Council (NSC), Mr Hassan Bello and Director General of NIMASA, Mr Patrick Akpobolokemi.

translate to more revenue and employment for government. The executive secretary stressed the need for business coordination at port in order to reduce cargo dwell time. Bello said: “Activities of terminal operators should be coordinated and streamlined to ensure efficiency and transparency.” He noted that part of the objectives of the visit was for operators to give NSC free access to the terminals and provide information that would enable the council carry out their duties effectively. The council boss added: “This will give us the opportunity to monitor and coordinate activities in the terminals within the terms of government. “We also need the terminals to give us information that will help us measure the level of terminal efficiency. We want operators to handle more cargoes and generate more profit,” Bello said. He urged the operators to inform the council of their

challenges, how they receive the ships and work with other agencies to ensure good productivity. General Manager ENL Consortium, Mr Mark Walsh, commended the council, saying that without its assistance, trade transaction at the port would not be successful. Walsh urged the council to state its requirement so that management would endeavour to comply. The general manager explained that ENL Consortium would not be able to satisfy everyone but that it would help the NSC to achieve its objectives. In his contribution, the Managing Director, Port and cargo Handling Services (PCHS), Mr John Jenkins, said that the company would continue to invest to enhance employment and productivity. Jenkins gave the assurance that the company would maintain a positive relationship with the council so that their performance would impact on the economy.

Global container trade to hit 684m teu in 2014

he global container trade will increase by 5.7 per cent to reach 684 million this year, a United Kingdom-based shipping consultant, Drewry Maritime Equity Research, has predicted. It was 4.7 per cent in 2013. The firm also said that port capacity is expected to reach 994 million teu by 2014, increasing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9 per cent since 2011. It added that average utilisation would rise to about 69 per cent from 67 per cent in 2011. The company also predicted that there would be significant regional variation, which would lead to very different utilisation levels in different areas. In 2014, Drewry anticipates

Containers at the Lagos Port, Apapa

that ports in emerging regions such as the Far East and SouthEast Asia are expected to see higher average usage rates of about 75 per cent, while there will be an average utilisation of 57 per cent in Western Europe due to flagging demand. In early 2013, a rise of 6.4 per cent was recorded in the share prices of the major port companies under Drewry’s coverage. “According to Drewry’s latest forecasts, port capacity is expected reach 994 million teu by 2014.” Cosco Pacific is expected to take advantage of its stable revenues from container leasing, its operation in the Bohai Rim and the recovery of global trade.

40 POLITICS Since Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State foreclosed reelection of National Assembly members from Enugu State, who would have served up to two consecutive terms, in 2015, the development has continued to create intense suspense and fear of possible implosion in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). UWAKWE ABUGU reports

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Suspense in Enugu over NASS members’ fate

nknown to those who observe the on-going torrents of political permutations beclouding Enugu’s political environment, one huge sore-point for the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is the current hedgy situation which Governor Sullivan Chime and National Assembly members from the state have been trying to wriggle out from. During the last meeting of the PDP Caucus in Enugu State held on July 26, the decision to bar all National Assembly members from the state who would be serving out either the second or third terms by next year was one of the knotty issues that engaged the PDP leaders in the state. Recall that the governor had last year formally reminded the state and federal legislators of a working understanding reached in 2011 at the heat of the controversial primary elections of the PDP that those who were favoured to grab the tickets of the party for their second or third terms would no longer seek re-election by 2015. He had chosen the medium of the PDP caucus to deliver the reminder. And it did cause ample stir at that time. It was the Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu who responded to the governor’s poser. He had told Chime that 2015 was still far away and that there was no point bringing it up so early to heat up the polity which to him was quite calm. At the last caucus meeting after which a greater suspense on this matter has been growing in leaps and bounds, Ekweremadu whose seat the governor is eyeing, was absent. It was gathered that he was out of the country on that day. Chime, Nnamani lobbied caucus Barely two months to the primary elections, Chime, former Senate President Ken Nnamani as well as a good number of political leaders in the state believed the state PDP train is getting to the edge of the proverbial bridge. So, during the last caucus meeting held some days ago, Chime raised this issue as another reminder. The governor told the caucus of state PDP leaders that “we reached that agreement and it guided what happened. That was how all our National Assembly members made it back to complete their terms. Well, 2015 is almost here and we are getting feelers that some of our National Assembly members are gearing up to contest again, some for their third term.” The governor told the caucus that “those feelers came to me as a shock, that some people have no respect for agreements. That agreement has nothing to do with the constitution of Nigeria or the constitution of our great party, the PDP.” The governor also hinted that in trying to bring this needed peace to the party by making efforts to ensure that elective positions go round and assuage daunting requests and desires, he is being blackmailed. “I have been told that all I am trying to do is to retire some people from politics. That, to me, is blackmail,” he said. He explained that it does not amount to retiring some perceived persons from politics, saying, “if you are in the House

Chime

of Representatives and you want to go to the Senate, present yourself to your people and if you are in the Senate and you want to vie for another position, present yourself to your people but don’t cling to one position for three, four terms, especially when we had an agreement.” He told the NASS members at the caucus that he did not see how leaving legislative houses would mean retiring from politics. He also assured that the policy was not targeted at anybody, saying “it is aimed at ensuring peace and checking acrimony.” In view of the sensitive nature of this issue, none of them moved to respond to the poser the governor had once again, brought to the front burner of the caucus deliberations. At that juncture, former Senate President, Ken Nnamani appealed to them to respond. Nnamani contended that “what we are talking about is how do we reduce bitterness.” “If you keep quiet and trying to sweep it under the carpet, it would not help anyone. So, are you in agreement with the agreement reached or does it not exist?” he asked. In line with the posture of Nnamani, another former senator from the state, Chief Fidelis Okoro, spoke before any response came from the NASS members present, and said: “I support that arrangement. My colleagues in the National Assembly are gentlemen and we should respect that gentleman’s agreement in the interest of peace and unity.” A former minister and former NASS member from the state who is a member of the caucus, Chief Dubem Onyia, also said: “I plead with our brothers and sisters in NASS to reconsider their positions. If those of us who were there in 1999 refused to relinquish our positions, then there would have been no way those of you who are there now would have gone there.” Also joining Chime in the advocacy to stop the current NASS members from seeking re-election next year was another former senator, Chief Ben-Collins Ndu who told them that “as a team player, it is not good to renege on agreements reached.” Ndu stated that he went to the Senate and spent just one year and three months but that now he is not hungry

Ekweremadu

If those of us who were there in 1999 refused to relinquish our positions, then there would have been no way those of you... would have gone there “and I have not retired from politics”. Peace meeting Disturbed by the development, some political leaders and elders mainly from Chime’s Udi country home had reportedly convened a meeting between the NASS members and the governor with a view to resolving the issue of barring the legislators from seeking re-election in 20015. Also in attendance at the Udi meeting held last month was the state PDP chairman, Chief Vita Abba. The lawmakers reportedly assured their hosts that they were also in dire need of peace in the state. However, they preferred another meeting where only the NASS members and the governor would hold a roundtable discussion to resolve the matter after looking at the issue. The meeting was to take place on July 30. It was postponed due to the nonavailability of some of the lawmakers. A source assured that before the National Assembly resumes from their vacation, they will meet with the governor. The fact that the meeting will hold is not in doubt but what is of concern to keen political observers of the scenario in Enugu is whether the two parties would ever produce a workable agreement to the two sides since the decision in question may mean that some of them may not have to run for any elective position in 2015. Amongst the ordinary PDP

faithful, it appears generally that the decision of the governor is very popular, especially the aspect which antagonizes institutionalised “sit-tight” by political office holders. Angling for Ekweremadu, Eze and Nnaji’s seats Meanwhile, there have been scramble for the seats of the three senators is Senator Ayogu Eze (the North), Senator Gil Nnaji (East) and Ekweremadu (West). For Nnaji, he has to battle the Chief of Staff to Governor Chime, Mrs. Ifeoma Nwobodo; former governor of the state, Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani as well as former Information Minister, Mr. Frank Nweke. In the eight federal constituencies, those affected by the said agreement of 2011 include a third termer who represents Chime’s constituency, Hon. Ogbuefi Ozomgbachi, Hon Patrick Asadu representing Nsukka/IgboEze South federal constituency, Hon. Peace Nnaji of the Nkanu East/Nkanu West federal constituency, Hon. Ofochukwu Egbo representing Enugu North/ Enugu South constituency, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, who represents the Igbo-Eze North/Udenu Federal constituency in the National Assembly. Three of the federal lawmakers are currently serving their first term at National Assembly. And they include the former Nigerian Ambassador to Spain, Hon. Kinsley Ebenyi who represents IsiUzo/Enugu East federal constituency, Hon. Tobias Okechukwu representing Aninri/Awgu federal constituency and Hon. Stella Ngwu representing IgboEtiti/Uzo-Uwani constituency at NASS. In view of the crisis arising from the lingering issue of agreement with the National Assembling members in 2011, not much of politicking in the form of campaigns even by those obviously anxious to step into the shoes of the legislators has been seen. Most of those seeking to run for these positions have largely remained shadowy figures to the larger populace. For the lawmakers who have spent two or more terms in the legislative houses, they have option to either abide by the agreement or contest the party’s primaries. In the event they lose, they will either accept their fate or likely defect to another party and pick a ticket. The political future of Ekweremadu is uncertain. In the contest between him and the governor, it is most certain that the governor will pick the senatorial ticket.

POLITICS 41

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

NASS, high turnover rate and ranking Sufuyan Ojeifo

t is time the unwholesome culture of terminating representation in the legislature for reasons of local politics and egotism stopped. Many good and brilliant legislators who, ordinarily, should have been rewarded with more terms in the National Assembly have had their stay stymied by powerful forces back in their home states. Incrementally, the federal legislature has been the worse for it, evident in the lack of a rich pool of experienced lawmakers whose interventions are needed in directing and redirecting the legislature in critical times. Nigeria’s National Assembly is afflicted by this malady and, over the years, this has been reflected in the ineptitude that has largely characterized the standing and ad hoc committees. Many members have been shoved out with their legislative experience for some greenhorns who are beholden to some godfathers in their states. The vicious cycle continues, thus denying the legislature of the desired robustness in terms of its human capital, contents and outputs. This is sad. As 2015 general election approaches, there should be a paradigm shift. Relevant stakeholders in the parties can bring this about in order to allow longer representations in the legislature. In the United States of America, senators serve terms of six years each. The terms are staggered so that approximately one-third of the seats are up for election every two years. This was achieved by dividing the senators of the 1st Congress into thirds (called classes), where the terms of one-third expired after two years, the terms of another third expired after four, and the terms of the last third expired after six years. This arrangement was also followed after the admission of new states into the union. The staggering of terms has been arranged such that both seats from a given state are not contested in the same general election, except when a mid-term vacancy is being filled. Current senators whose six-year terms expire on January 3, 2015, belong to Class II. The American Constitution does not put a bar on the maximum number of times or years or terms that senators or congress members can seek re-election. This explains why, in the history of US Congress, many members (both in the House of Representatives and the Senate) spent and have continued to spend well over 30 years tending to their people’s mandates. Currently in the 100 member-US Senate, there are five members who have spent over 30 years. They are: the President pro tempore and chair of the Judiciary committee, Democratic Senator Patrick Leahy representing Vermont State, whose term began on January 3, 1975 (39 years, 5 months); and Republican Senator Orrin Hatch representing Utah State whose term began on January 3, 1977 (37 years, 5 months). Others are Republican Senator Thad Cochran representing Mississippi State whose term began on December 27, 1978 (36 years, 7 months); Democratic Senator Carl Levin representing Michigan State whose term began on January 3, 1979 (35 years, 5 months); and Republican Senator Chuck Grassley representing Iowa State whose term began on January 3, 1981 (33 years, 5 months). There are others who are in their 29th year, 27thyear, 22nd year, 21st

Mark

Gwarzo

Only two senators and five members have survived the usuallyinduced ousters by incumbent governors who have taken it upon themselves to determine the political fate of members and senators from their states

Lawan

year, 20th year 18th year, 17thyear, 15th year (beginning from 1999, the year Nigeria’s Fourth Republic 109-member Senate was inaugurated). A perusal of the list of seniority in the United States Senate would show those who are spending their 13th year, 12th year, 11th year, 9th year, 8th year, 7th year, 5th year, 4th year, 3rdyear, 2nd year and 1st year, down to Democratic Senator John Walsh representing Montana State who began his term on February 9, 2014. In the 433-member House of Representatives, 16 members have spent more than 30 years, the longest being 59 years. Democratic Party John Dingell, representing the 12th District of Michigan, has spent 59 years, having been first elected into the House on December 13, 1955. He is the longest serving member of US Congress in history and he is, on account of seniority, Dean of the House. His Democratic Party compatriot for Michigan 13th District, John Conyers, ing has spent 49 years, havbeen first elected on January 3, 1965. Another Democratic Party member, Charles B. Rangel of 13th District of New York has spent 43 years, having been first elected on January 3, 1971.

Others are Republican Party Don Young (Arkansas) – 41 years; Democratic Party George Miller (California-11) and Henry Waxman (California 33) – both 39 years; Democratic Party Nick Rahall (West Virgina-03) – 37 years; Republican Party James Sensenbrenner and Tom Petri (Wisconsin -05 and 06 respectively) – 35 years; Republican Party Ralph Hall (Texas-04), Hal Rogers (Kentucky-05), Christopher Smith (New Jersye-04) and Frank Wolf (Virgina-10) and Democratic Party Steny Hoyer (Maryland-05) – 33 years; Democratic Party Marcy Kaptur (Ohio-09) and Sander Levin (Michigan-09) – 31 years. Some members were elected in 1985, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2013 and 2014. There is, of course, ranking in seniority by year of election; and privileges are accessed in accordance with the status of individual members. The number of years is equated with the wealth of experience at the disposal of senior and/or ranking members of the House. Committee chairmanship in the House is often associated with seniority, especially in the Democratic Caucus. The Republican leadership has a stronger hand in choosing chairmen and ranking minority members, and does so based on voting records and campaign fundraising. However, party leadership is not strictly associated with seniority. In Nigeria, just like in America, the tenure of senators and House of Representatives’ members is limitless. Section 68 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

1999, as amended, only specifies how the tenure of senators and members of the House of Representatives can be terminated; otherwise, as long as a senator or a House member wins his or her party’s nomination and the general election, he or she will always return to the Senate or House at the commencement of every fouryear term. How has this scenario played out in the Nigerian federal legislature? Not good enough is an apt description of the high reversal rate that the political fortunes of a vast majority of legislators have experienced since 1999. As it is, only two senators; David Mark (Senate President from Benue State) and Hayatu Gwarzo (Majority Whip from Kano State) are enjoying unbroken four terms, expiring on May 29, 2015. In the House of Representatives, Farouk Lawan (PDP-Kano), Bashir Adamu and Safianu Taura (PDP-Jigawa), Nicholas Mutu (PDP-Delta) and Monsuru Alao Owolabi (APC-Lagos) are the only ones who have been in the House since 1999. The statistics of a high turnover rate are heart-rending: only two senators and five members have survived the usually-induced ousters by incumbent governors who have taken it upon themselves to determine the political fate of members and senators from their states. It is, nonetheless, noteworthy that the duo of Mark and Gwarzo in the Senate have really benefitted from their seniority status, clinching the positions of Senate President and Majority Whip respectively. It was easier for Mark to achieve this feat (he first stepped in the saddle in 2007) because, among other things, the position was ceded by his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to the North Central from where he comes. Significantly, Mark has deployed his wealth of experience to put an end to leadership instability in the Senate. He has been able to create a robust synergy between the Upper House and the executive arm of the Federal Government. His wealth of experience in the legislature has largely assisted him to succeed. In the House, none of the five longest serving members, especially of the PDP, which produced the Speaker, had the privilege of being elected into the position. This was despite that Lawan, Adamu and Taura are from the North-West zone which is currently holding the position by subterfuge and rebellion executed by the incumbent Speaker Aminu Tambuwal. The PDP had zoned the position to the South-West. But some PDP elements in the House, acting in concert with the opposition party members, had frustrated the PDP arrangement in pushing through its consensual candidate for the position. But nevertheless, Tambuwal, who is in the saddle, by some carefully orchestrated happenstance, is also very experienced but not the most senior in the House. He was first elected into the House in 2003. The nation’s federal legislature, and also State Houses of Assembly, can benefit from the experience(s) of senior members, as is the case in the United States, if incumbent governors would allow performance, indeed, brilliant representation, to thrive through support back home for the re-election of legislators. This is food for thought for relevant stakeholders across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). •Ojeifo is Editor-in-Chief of The Congresswatch magazine based in Abuja

42 POLITICS

Fayose

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Fayemi

Omirin

Ekiti’s new LCDAs: Landmines The creation of 19 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) by Governor Kayode Fayemi has pitched his government against the incoming Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration, writes ADESINA WAHAB

he local government is recognised by the Nigerian Constitution as the third tier of government in the country and the 774 local governments in existence before the drafting of the 1999 document are subsequently listed in it. However, since the advent of the current civilian dispensation, it has been difficult creating new council areas mainly due to political considerations, leaving the country with local governments created through military fiat as constitutionally-recognised ones. Though a number of states, led by Lagos, have gone ahead to create new councils, getting them listed in the constitution through the act of the National Assembly has been difficult. The situation thus leaves the states with Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). The LCDAs are only sharing resources, through federal allocations, from the listed LGs. Out of the 774 constitutionally-recognised LGs, Ekiti State has 16. When Otunba Niyi Adebayo was the governor of the state from 1999 to 2003, he tried creating new councils, but the process was stalled. Governor Kayode Fayemi, also a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) like Adebayo, took over the leadership of the state in October 2010 and the creation of new councils was not among the initial priorities. Last year, having gone round communities in the state, Fayemi said his administration would go ahead and create new councils to hearken to the yearnings of the people and set up a committee to look into the legal implications of the exercise. He subsequently set up a council creation committee headed by Justice Akin Ajakaiye, a retired judge of the Federal High Court that went round the state collating demands for new councils and which assessed those demands based on certain criteria.

The committee made its recommendations and 18 new LCDAs were proposed with the Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (EKSIEC) mandated to conduct a referendum on the matter. The new LCDAs are: Ado West, Ado North, Ado Central, Igbara Odo/ Ogotun, Ifeloju, Ifesowapo, Ajoni, Ero, Ifedara, Isokan, Irewolede, Irede, Ikere West, Araromi, Ekiti South East, Okemesi/Ido Ile, and Eka Meta. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which is waiting in the wing to take over the administration of the state come October, cried foul over the matter. The main grouse of the party is that the entire process lacks credibility because of some legal restraints and encumbrances. The PDP, through the state secretary, Dr. Tope Aluko, said EKSIEC was not legally constituted going by some matters in court and that Fayemi was only contravening the constitution. He said: “The governor is aware of the fact that the EKSIEC is not in existence and he has said this on several occasions that he could not conduct local government election because there is a case pending in court and the court is the Supreme Court.” The PDP chieftain added that the party filed an appeal against the judgement of Court of Appeal at the Supreme Court and “whatever action the EKSIEC takes concerning council creation is illegal, null and void. “The Supreme Court has not come out with a decision on the constitution of EKSIEC. Where has the EKSIEC got the power to operate? The House of Assembly, EKSIEC and the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice have been duly served with authenticated proof of service of all the court processes.” However, the EKSIEC boss, Mrs Cecilia Adelusi, countered PDP’s claim, saying EKSIEC was not acting illegally. She said the Appeal Court had in its judgement of March 26, 2013 ordered that the case challenging the constitution of EKSIEC be tried afresh. “This followed the setting aside of the ruling of Justice A. A. Adeyeye of AdoEkiti High Court that said EKSIEC was not legally constituted,” she added that the commission had not been notified of any pending appeal filed by PDP at the Supreme Court, challenging the Appeal Court verdict. Adelusi added: “We are empowered

by Section 8(3) of the 1999 Constitution to carry out this assignment. And as we speak, no notice before us in SIEC that the case has been re-assigned at the High Court after the Appeal Court judgement or any appeal pending at the Supreme Court. “The order that the matter be re-tried superseded the High Court judgement of February 3, 2012 that declared our commission illegal because the appeal court said the trial judge misdirected himself. “So, the commission has no legal encumbrance to carry out this exercise. But we want to say that the LCDAs will not be operating in full course because the process is inchoate until they are listed in the constitution by the National Assembly. Whatever the House of Assembly arrives at will be subjected to National Assembly before they can become full-fledged local governments.” PDP kicks The ding-dong between the parties to the matter continued as EKSIEC prepared for the referendum, just as the PDP described the referendum as an exercise in futility and urged the people of the state to boycott it. “The proposed referendum is an illegal act, as it not following the due process expected of such an exercise. The legal matter over the constitution of EKSIEC is still in court. Apart from the matter of the constitution of EKSIEC being at the Supreme Court, Ekiti PDP has also gone to court challenging the creation of the new LCDAs and that is still in court. “Any action taken by Fayemi, EKSIEC and the Ekiti State House of Assembly on the matter is null and void and we are calling on the people of the state

We are calling on the people of Ekiti State not to allow themselves to be used, as the incoming administration will not recognise any such illegal act

not to waste their time going out for any referendum. It will end up a sheer waste of time and resources. It is going to be an exercise in futility and we are calling on the people of Ekiti State not to allow themselves to be used, as the incoming administration will not recognise any such illegal act. “We are reiterating again that the PDP is committed to the growth and development of the state in all ramifications and as a law abiding party, will never support any illegal act,” Pastor Kola Oluwawole, PDP State Publicity Secretary, said. This is just as the State Chairman of PDP, Mr. Makanjuola Ogundipe, also went to court on behalf of his party on the issue. The PDP is seeking the following reliefs: “A declaration that it is an exercise in futility for the first defendant to embark on the creation of local governments or LCDAs at the twilight of his tenure, being a process that cannot be completed before the expiration of his tenure but meant to cause confusion for the incoming government. “A declaration that any local government or LCDA created by Governor Fayemi in contravention of the 1999 Constitution as amended is null, void and of no effect.” The PDP is also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from embarking on further process towards the creation of additional councils. It is also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining the third defendant, the Ekiti State House of Assembly from receiving and or considering any process put forward to it by the governor in relation to the creation of new councils. The Ekiti State PDP also wants the court to determine the followings: “Whether Governor Fayemi can validly create local governments or LCDAs in contravention of Section (3) of the 1999 Constitution. “Whether the governor has the power under the 1999 Constitution to abolish local government areas created under the 1999 Constitution by altering their names, adjusting their boundaries and dividing them into smaller units. “Whether Governor Fayemi has the power to exhibit such power without recourse to the National Assembly.” Though the referendum did not witness large turnout of voters in most places, the exercise still held and Adelusi and her team submitted the proposal

POLITICS 43

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Ogundipe

Adelusi

Jide Awe, APC Chairman

or development catalysts?

for the creation of 18 new councils to Ekiti Assembly. Still not relenting on the matter, the PDP accused the assembly of contempt and threatened to sue the assembly should it take further steps on the bill sent to it by Fayemi for the creation of additional LCDAs. The party also warned that it would be contemptuous for the assembly to pass the bill intended to create more LCDAs into law when there is a pending suit in court against such policy. The party in a letter dated July 8, 2014, signed by its Legal Adviser, Mr. Kolapo Kolade, and addressed to the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Omirin, said the party had earlier gone to Ado-Ekiti High Court to challenge the rationale behind the creation of more LCDAs by Governor Fayemi in the twilight of his administration. Citing Cap 8 Section 54(5) of the Standing Order of the Assembly, which borders on the rules of debate, the party quoted that, “No matter pending in court of law shall be entertained by the House in order not to prejudice the decision of the court in respect of the matter.” Stating further, the PDP added that, “Similarly, it is in law that when an application for injunction is pending in court, none of the parties should take steps regarding the issue raised therein. “We therefore wish that you will be advised accordingly as we are aware that the issue of the creation of LCDAs which is the subject matter of the suit under reference is said to have passed the First Reading in the House on 7th July, 2014 despite the pendency of the suit and the fact that you have adequate notice of same. “Needless to remind you therefore sir, that further deliberations on this matter for reasons given above is a nullity and an exercise in futility,” it concluded. House, PDP bickers over court order However, while receiving the results of the referendum from EKSIEC boss, Omirin said the Assembly has not got any court order or ruling stopping it from going ahead to consider the creation of the new LCDAs. “I say once again that there is no record of any service of any court order or injunction stopping the Assembly from going ahead with this exercise. No court in this state or outside the state has restrained us,” Omirin said.

Omirin’s claim contradicted that of the PDP, which maintained, “The proof of service on the Assembly is there and the Assembly leadership knows the right thing to do, stay action on any matter in court until such is determined by the court. “The legislators must know that as lawmakers, they must not act and behave as lawbreakers. We are aware of the pressure being mounted on them by the leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), but they must act as men and women of honour and integrity and to also note that posterity will judge everybody. We are aware of their desperate plan to plunge the state into chaos following the heavy defeat they suffered in last month’s governorship election,” Ogundipe said. At the end of the day, Ekiti House of Assembly gave approval to the creation of 19 new councils by adding one to the 18 presented before it. Fayemi inaugurates council bosses While inaugurating the new council bosses, Fayemi reiterated that his administration did not do anything illegal or unconstitutional in the creation of the new councils. He said the exercise was in response to the requests by the people of the state. For the council bosses, he enjoined them to “build consensus in the participatory governance” of their respective councils. “I have no doubt that going by the pedigree of the leaders being sworn in today; there will be accelerated progress in meeting the needs of our people at the grassroots. These are leaders carefully chosen not only on account of their competence but also their closeness to the grassroots. I therefore charge you all to live up to expectations of our people in serving them with all diligence and honour. Above all, remember that all power belongs to God and to Him shall we all ultimately give account,” he said. No recognition for LCDAs – Fayose However, the incoming PDP administration, to be led by Mr Ayo Fayose, has said it would not divert statutory allocations meant for the 16 listed LGs to the newly-created 19 LCDAs. Answering question on the status of the new councils, Fayose said what Fayemi created were LCDAs and not local government areas. “I want the people of Ekiti State to

To the PDP, the new councils are landmines and booby traps set by the APC to pitch it against Ekiti people and create problems for the party when it takes over the government on October 16 understand that what Governor Fayemi has created are Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) and not local governments. Nobody can create local governments in Nigeria without complying with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution. And I don’t think he has done anything bad. But as for me, in order not to breach the constitution, I will not allow the diversion of allocations meant for the 16 local government areas in Ekiti to the LCDAs. Allowing that is diversion, and it is a breach of the constitution which I will swear to obey and uphold. “There are 774 LGs in Nigeria and their names are in the Nigerian Constitution including the 16 in Ekiti State. I am very certain that the Ekiti people who elected me will not encourage me to breach the constitution,” he said. Crises in councils Fayose’s comments came as crises trail the creation of the councils in some communities. For instance, the people of Kota and Omuo-Ekiti fought a mini war over the ownership of the land on which the headquarters of Ekiti East is situated. Kota people are laying claim to the land, saying giving the address of the headquarters as Omuo is wrong. Kota was made the headquarters of the new LCDA created from the area and the people are saying that it is Omuo people that must look for another location for their council headquarters. The face-off led to unspecified number of people being injured. Fayemi and top security agents had to meet with the leaders of the feuding communities who had to sign a memorandum pledging their commitment to peaceful co-existence between the

communities. Some communities have vowed not to have anything to do with some new councils because the headquarters were not appropriately chosen. An instance is Osi-Ekiti people rejecting being placed under Ifaki-Ekiti. For local government workers under the aegis of Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), the state government ought to resolve some pending issues before the exercise. Ekiti NULGE President, Mr. Bunmi Ajimoko, said: “We are not opposed to the creation of new local governments or councils, but certain issues must be resolved and clarified. “The creation of new councils will, no doubt, mean more expenses on the part of the government. However, there are issues that the state government is yet to resolve with us. They border on welfare and condition of service. We recently cried out over the issues such as CONMESS, CONHESS among others. The state government has not resolved them and our members are still denied these benefits.” It would be recalled that NULGE had on July 15 gave the state government a 21-day ultimatum to meet certain demands or risk industrial action. The landmines The main question agitating the minds of people concerning the new councils is how to finance the councils and not just make them mere drain pipes for overhead cost. This is because the state is second to the last among the 36 states in the country in terms of federal allocation and despite spirited efforts to boost its internal revenue, the state is only able to generate about N600 million monthly. Also, political observers want the APC and the PDP to answer some questions. For the PDP, is it that the state does not deserve new councils? For the APC, are 19 new councils not more than necessary and what if Fayemi had won the June 21 governorship poll, would he have created up to 19 new councils? To the PDP, the new councils are landmines and booby traps set by the APC to pitch it against Ekiti people and create problems for the party when it takes over the government on October 16 this year. To the APC, the new councils would help to accelerate development at the grassroots. Only time will tell which side is correct.

business | MONEY LINE

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

FG cuts business registration cost for SMEs by 60% Jonathan disburses N869.9m to Akwa-Ibom, Delta, others

FINANCIAL GAP The MSME financial gap is estimated at N9.6trillion

million of the N220 billion Micro, Small and Medium- Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) fund to its first batch of beneficiaries in Abuja. The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr Olusegun Aganga, announced the cut in registration fees, while speaking at the 8th annual Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises finance conference. The conference with theme "MSME financing in Nigeria: Past, present and future" was conceptualised to look at the MSME finance sub-sector from a holistic perspective. Aganga said the directive for the reduction of the business registration costs was given by

Abdulwahab Isa and Anule Emmanuel Abuja

mall and Medium Scale Enterprises desirous of formalising their businesses with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) can now heave a sigh of relief, as the Federal Government yesterday said it had reduced the costs of registering by 60 per cent. The slash in registration cost came just as President Goodluck Jonathan disbursed N869.9

the President, adding that the development underscored the importance of the sector to poverty reduction, job creation and inclusive growth. He said since SMEs accounts for about 80 per cent of businesses registered with the CAC and about 50 per cent of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), there is need to remove all factors that would impede their development to nation building. He said the N220billion facility whose disbursement was flagged off at the event by Jonathan, would help not only to empower SMEs, but also address the access to financing needs of the sector in an efficient and

Nigeria, others’ middle class to balloon - Standard Bank

iddle-class households in 11 leading sub-Saharan African economies, including Nigeria but excluding South Africa, are set to balloon to about 40 million by 2030, as the benefits of economic growth are more inclusively distributed, according to Standard Bank Group Ltd. According to Bloomberg, about 15 million of the 110 million households in Angola, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia are lower-middle-

class and middle-class, consuming from $15 to $115 a day, the continent’s largest lender said yesterday. About 86 percent of households are low-income, consuming less than $15 a day, it said. “Between 2000 and 2014, we’ve seen a tripling of middleclass households across these 11 countries,” Simon Freemantle, a political economist at Standard Bank, said in Johannesburg. “It confirms that idea that Africa has structurally changed, that there has been real improvement in the last 10

years. Not just cyclical, it’s been a real structural change.” The emergence of a middle class was found to be most profound in Nigeria, which has Africa’s largest economy. About 4.1 million households, or 11 per cent of the West African nation’s population, consume $23 to $115 a day. That’s six times more than in 2000. East Africa lagged other regions in the study, with more than 90 per cent of households in Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya defined as low-income.

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

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

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

Rate (%) 11.33 11.63

NIFEX Spot ($/N)

Bid 163.4000

Offer 163.5000 Source: FMDQ

sustainable manner. Speaking at the event, Jonathan listed four beneficiaries that were presented with a cheques include, Akwa Ibom State, N260 million; Delta State, N500 million; Labo Microfinance Limited, N100 million and Grassroot Microfinance Limited, N9.9 million. The President commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for the initiative and particularly by approving that 60 per cent of the funds be given to women in SMEs. He said that the contribution of SMEs to the world’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has risen significantly to 47 per cent while; Nigeria has about 17.3 million SMEs. He said filling the gap calls for concrete and concerted effort to match countries such as Indonesia, which

has about 40 million SMEs. The President also praised the apex bank for pegging the interest rate for the fund at nine per cent single digit rate. In his remarks earlier, the CBN Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele said that the MSME financial gap, which is estimated at N9.6trillion, was one of the major reason why the apex bank intervened in the sector. He said in view of the fact that cost and access to credit had continued to be an inhibiting factor to the survival and growth of many MSMEs in the country, the apex bank would be working with relevant stakeholders to establish a Secured Transaction and National Collateral Registry to facilitate the registration and acceptability of movable property as loan collateral.

DMO frets over dwindling tax revenue Says 22 firms raised N223bn locally Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

irector-General, Debt Management Office (DMO), Dr. Abraham Nwankwo, has decried the nation’s dwindling collectable tax revenue, saying it a major threat to debt management. He also said between 2007 and 2013, bout 22 Nigerian companies raised over N223 billion from the domestic market, adding that Nigerian companies had issued bonds worth $3 billion. The DMO, who made these disclosures at a one day seminar for members of Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN) in Abuja, yesterday, put Nigeria’s domestic and external debts at N8.9trillion $9.3billion respectively, as at June 2014.

He lamented that tax revenue to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio is low because many economic agencies do not pay their taxes according to their outputs. “The government is already consuming so much in terms of expenditure and we have to improve tax administration and tax collection so that our tax revenue to the GDP ratio can improve. There is gap that needed to be filled,” he said. Nwankwo, who also has allayed the fear associated with Nigeria’s debt status, described it as stable. He said Nigeria’s debt is 12. 5 per cent ratio to its GDP as against the 36 per cent world standard and was quick to caution that the country’s favorable debt to GDP does not afford it the license to borrow without caution.

Sterling Bank is CBNs best performing bank

he leading role of Sterling Bank in agricultural financing was rewarded in Abuja yesterday as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) conferred on the lender the best performing bank under Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS). The award, according to a statement was presented to the bank at the CBN’s Annual Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Finance Conference held at the Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Abuja. The conferment of the award to the lender “is in recognition of its commitment to the growth of the agricultural sector,” the statement added. Sterling Bank has disbursed sizeable funds to its customers under the aforementioned scheme.

Speaking at the event, the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefele, commended the bank for its support to the agricultural sector, adding that with the support of financial institutions, activities in the agricultural sector will increase and in the process take its right of place in the nation’s economy. Corroborating the remarks made by the CBN Governor, the Regional Business Executive of Sterling Bank; Japhet John, speaking on behalf of the bank’s MD, Mr Yemi Adeola, assured that the bank will continue to provide funding across the value chain to ensure sustainable growth for the sector. His words: “Agriculture is an important sector of the economy with high potential for employment generation, food security and poverty reduction.

Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

business | CAPITAL MARKET 45

Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014

Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022

The Nigerian Stock Market Exchange as at August 19, 2014 Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (Bonds)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Activity Summary on Board DEBT Federal

Bond Name 16.39% FGN JAN 2022 Federal Totals

Symbol FG9B2022S1

No. of Deals 1 1

DEBT Board Totals

Current Price 120.65

Bond Activity Totals

Quantity Traded 100 100

Value Traded 121,763.25 121,763.25

100

121,763.25

100

HEALTHCARE Healthcare Providers UNION DIAGNOSTIC & CLINICAL SERVICES PLC Healthcare Providers Totals Medical Supplies MORISON INDUSTRIES PLC. Medical Supplies Totals Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022 Pharmaceuticals

121,763.25

Daily Summary (Equities)

EVANS MEDICAL PLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY PLC. NIGERIA-GERMAN CHEMICALS

Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Crop Production OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals

Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 Livestock/Animal Specialties Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022 LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC.

Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals

AGRICULTURE Totals CONGLOMERATES Diversified Industries Activity Summary onNIGERIA Board EQTY A.G. LEVENTIS PLC.

Symbol OKOMUOIL PRESCO

No. of Deals 28 20 48

Current Price 36.47 36.30

Quantity Traded 86,542 1,104,766 1,191,308

Value Traded 3,015,360.20 40,024,293.80 43,039,654.00

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 28 28

Current Price 3.28

Quantity Traded 766,320 766,320

Value Traded 2,448,968.40 2,448,968.40

HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals PHARMA-DEKO PLC. Pharmaceuticals Totals

1,957,628

45,488,622.40

HEALTHCARE Totals

Value Traded 54,000.00

ICT Computer Based Systems COURTEVILLE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS PLC Computer Based Systems Totals

Daily Summary (Equities)

CONGLOMERATES Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Diversified Industries

TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals

Symbol AGLEVENT

No. of Deals 1

Current Price 1.40

Quantity Traded 40,000

Symbol TRANSCORP UACN

No. of Deals 271 70 342

Current Price 5.60 60.50

Page Quantity Traded 25,735,961 2,198,533 27,974,494

CONGLOMERATES Totals

342

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Building Construction ARBICO PLC. Building Construction Totals Building Structure/Completion/Other COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022 Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals

Quantity Traded 15,800 15,800

Value Traded 79,632.00 79,632.00

Symbol COSTAIN

No. of Deals 13 13

Current Price 1.14

Quantity Traded 695,407 695,407

Value Traded 792,763.98 792,763.98

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 30 30

Current Price 65.00

Quantity Traded 174,643 174,643

Value Traded 11,251,887.04 11,251,887.04

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 55 55

Current Price 16.20

Quantity Traded 825,687 825,687

Value Traded 13,339,428.95 13,339,428.95

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 100.00 47.59

Quantity Traded 8,513 10

Value Traded 851,300.00 452.20

No. of Deals 2

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals

of 14 Value Traded 851,752.20

1,720,060

26,315,464.17 Value Traded 997,706.80 64,531,694.61 28,637,966.00 111,658,982.17 66,730.68 205,893,080.26

Symbol 7UP

No. of Deals 23 23

Current Price 115.00

Quantity Traded 60,452 60,452

Value Traded 7,663,652.31 7,663,652.31

Symbol No. of Deals DANGFLOUR 54 DANGSUGAR 91 FLOURMILL 75 HONYFLOUR 31 Daily Summary (Equities) NASCON 60 NNFM 2 UNIONDICON 2

Current Price 7.50 8.88 68.11 4.09 9.80 22.10 14.11

Quantity Traded 303,461 6,124,091 261,441 589,149 959,037 1,226 6,264

Value Traded 2,235,978.19 54,484,614.58 17,799,400.99 2,408,004.46 9,472,784.87 26,410.00 84,000.24

Page Quantity Traded 8,244,669

Current Price 66.70 1,099.00

Quantity Traded 609,555 142,081 751,636

Value Traded 39,461,854.25 155,876,572.03 195,338,426.28

No. of Deals 25 8 33

Current Price 4.06 1.25

Quantity Traded 336,018 235,387 571,405

Value Traded 1,386,135.23 294,293.75 1,680,428.98

No. of Deals 45 54 99

Current Price 36.00 49.00

Quantity Traded 184,835 363,885 548,720

Value Traded 6,499,051.76 17,655,222.35 24,154,274.11

12,374,188

521,241,055.27

Current Price

Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 73 55 128

Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. VONO PRODUCTS PLC. Household Durables Totals

Symbol VITAFOAM VONO

Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC.

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 Personal/Household Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022Products Totals CONSUMER GOODS Totals

SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY UNION BANK NIG.PLC.

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Building Materials PAINTS AND COATINGS MANUFACTURES PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC PREMIER PAINTS PLC. LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals

Quantity Traded 126,292 339,081 1,055,597 625,768 50,568 2,197,306

No. of Deals 315

Banking

ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC DANGOTE CEMENT PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY DN MEYER PLC.

Current Price 8.31 190.12 26.68 179.50 1.32

Symbol

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC.

809

FINANCIAL SERVICES Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Price 0.50 0.80 1.00 0.53 0.50 0.50 0.50 2.50 0.54 0.80 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.77

Page

Value Traded 100.00 8,328,330.44 27,543.79 307,275.51 296,665.50 318,947.50 1,000,000.00 1,328,867.50 9,642,788.88 13,228,308.49 6,565.00 1,691,362.36 100.00 100.00 700.00 250.00 5 of 125,100.00 2,521,370.67 6

Current Price 2.38

Quantity Traded 121,000 2,012,395

Value Traded 301,290.00 6,291,881.98

2,012,745

6,292,386.98 Value Traded 252,270.00 252,270.00

Symbol PHARMDEKO

No. of Deals 11 81 83

Symbol COURTVILLE

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 0.53

Quantity Traded 476,000 476,000

Symbol CWG TRIPPLEG

No. of Deals 3 1 4

Current Price 5.00 1.88

Page Quantity Traded 2,081 20 2,101

7 Symbol No. of Deals ASHAKACEM 61 BERGER 11 CAP 13 Daily Summary (Equities) CCNN 69 DANGCEM 20 DNMEYER 7

3,512,103

99,290,150.03

228 Symbol JAPAULOIL

No. of Deals 55 55

Current Price 0.51

Quantity Traded 3,779,332 3,779,332

Value Traded 1,930,212.09 1,930,212.09

No. of Deals 281 281

Current Price 26.68

Quantity Traded 6,574,276 6,574,276

Value Traded 174,466,978.57 174,466,978.57

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol OANDO

Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS TOTAL

No. of Deals 71 31 122 54 12 14 304

Current Price 68.45 3.71 236.00 175.00 54.00 182.02

Quantity TradedPage 569,035 1,159,386 322,954 70,637 10,736 55,349 2,188,097

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 695.00

Quantity Traded 3,100 3,100

Value Traded 2,107,979.85 2,107,979.85

12,544,805

320,408,486.64

646

Value Traded 10 of 14 38,684,829.12 4,326,439.02 75,857,042.04 12,397,791.39 563,557.96 10,073,656.60 141,903,316.13

Symbol AFROMEDIA

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 100 100

Value Traded 50.00 50.00

Symbol RTBRISCOE

No. of Deals 16 16

Current Price 0.88

Quantity Traded 422,550 422,550

Value Traded 375,719.58 375,719.58

Symbol REDSTAREX

No. of Deals 13

Current Price 4.40

Quantity Traded 217,600

Value Traded 955,865.00

Symbol TRANSEXPR

No. of Deals 1 14

Current Price 1.79

Page Quantity Traded 1,500 219,100

Employment Solutions C & I LEASING PLC. Employment Solutions Totals

Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 2,000 2,000

Value Traded 1,000.00 1,000.00

Hotels/Lodging IKEJA HOTEL PLC TOURIST COMPANY OF NIGERIA PLC. Hotels/Lodging Totals

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL TOURIST

No. of Deals 7 2 9

Current Price 0.78 3.88

Quantity Traded 201,600 282 201,882

Value Traded 154,674.00 1,040.58 155,714.58

Symbol ACADEMY LEARNAFRCA STUDPRESS UPL

No. of Deals 3 7 2 9 21

Current Price 1.71 1.64 2.40 4.50

Quantity Traded 3,000 61,259 200 21,700 86,159

Value Traded 4,890.00 99,072.20 504.00 92,876.00 197,342.20

Symbol ABCTRANS

No. of Deals 28 28

Current Price 0.71

Quantity Traded 1,017,973 1,017,973

Value Traded 738,438.18 738,438.18

No. of Deals 6

Current Price 2.06

Quantity Traded 416,034

Value Traded 879,621.04

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © SERVICES 14:49:22.022 Printed 19/08/2014

Transport-Related Services NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals Support and Logistics

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Quantity Traded 56,155,725

Micro-Finance Banks FORTIS MICROFINANCE BANK PLC NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals

Symbol FORTISMFB NPFMCRFBK

No. of Deals 4 10 14

Current Price 5.42 1.00

Quantity Traded 6,000,110 1,787,256 7,787,366

Value Traded SERVICES 38,824,375.64 Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC Value Traded Support and Logistics Totals 32,520,638.00 1,786,383.44 SERVICES Totals 34,307,021.44

Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services ASO SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC. Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

Symbol ASOSAVINGS UNHOMES

No. of Deals 2 2 4

Current Price 0.50 0.50

Quantity Traded 23,520 12,680 36,200

EQTY Board Totals Value Traded 11,760.00 Equity Activity Totals 6,340.00 18,100.00

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

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FBNH FCMB ROYALEX STANBIC UBCAP

No. of Deals 56 33 469 57 9 61 54 739

Current Price 3.22 3.88 14.80 4.26 0.60 30.30 2.16

Quantity Traded 11,332,991 3,006,948 17,938,796 3,988,120 639,166 5,628,794 1,222,488 43,757,303

Value Traded 36,494,715.31 Exchange Traded Fund 11,618,802.87 Name 265,109,976.38 NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) 16,983,547.99 VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF 383,662.76 Exchange Traded Fund Totals 170,452,751.82 2,641,850.89 ETF Board Totals 503,685,308.02

ETP Activity TotalsStock Exchange © Published by The Nigerian 2,313,605,291.98

Value Traded 16,007,678.10 1,300,233.70 1,718,567.35 30,598,966.10 15,445,180.72 29,246.88

Value Traded 21,443.94 143,680.00 165,123.94

Transport-Related Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC

Quantity Traded 470,569 141,123 43,515 1,992,456 67,664 25,700

Quantity Traded 11,718 8,000 19,718

Road Transportation ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC Road Transportation Totals

Page

Current Price 34.00 9.25 39.52 15.00 230.00 1.15

Current Price 1.75 17.11

Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022

236,961,964

262,294.60

No. of Deals 1 1 2

Printing/Publishing ACADEMY PRESS PLC. LEARN AFRICA PLC STUDIO PRESS (NIG) PLC. UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC. Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 Printing/Publishing Totals

478,101

Symbol AVONCROWN BETAGLAS

SERVICES Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Courier/Freight/Delivery TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals

8Value Traded of 14 9,988.80 35.80 10,024.60

Packaging/Containers AVON CROWNCAPS & CONTAINERS BETA GLASS CO PLC. Packaging/Containers Totals

Current Price

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Value Traded 336,587.00 3,594,102.00 1,194,887.52 571,560.16 266,113.30 27,342.00

Value Traded 742,665.42 742,665.42

No. of Deals 245

2,606

Quantity Traded 155,910 1,141,600 18,981 348,908 222,090 3,906

Quantity Traded 393,066 393,066

Symbol

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals

Current Price 2.15 3.20 63.50 1.62 1.17 7.36

Current Price 1.89

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

Value Traded 64,800.00 1,483,350.21 796,582,792.75 1,736,770,486.88

Quantity Traded 200 10,278,994 27,479 583,067 593,331 637,895 2,000,000 531,523 18,045,695 16,549,000 13,130 3,369,166 200 200 1,400 500Page 250,200 3,273,745

Symbol No. of Deals EVANSMED 8 FIDSON 19 GLAXOSMITH 12 Daily Summary (Equities) MAYBAKER 18 NEIMETH 12 NIG-GERMAN 1

No. of Deals 9 9

Courier/Freight/Delivery

Value Traded 4 of 14 319,659,059.64 11,739,448.61 10,166,860.17 78,049,247.56 3,290,644.91

No. of Deals Current 1 42 6 7 6 3 1 7 28 43 3 13 1 1 Summary (Equities) 3 1 4 75

Value Traded 455.00 455.00

Symbol CUTIX

Activity Summary on Board EQTY RED STAR EXPRESS PLC

Quantity Traded Page 11,030,087 3,895,390 4,720,909 10,781,619 395,690

Symbol AFRINSURE AIICO CONTINSURE CORNERST INTENEGINS LASACO LAWUNION MANSARD MBENEFIT NEM NIGERINS PRESTIGE SOVRENINS STACO Daily STDINSURE UNITYKAP UNIVINSURE WAPIC

Quantity Traded 250 250

Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals

Automobile/Auto Part Retailers R T BRISCOE PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals

Current Price 29.19 2.99 2.17 7.20 8.49

Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AFRICAN ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC AIICO INSURANCE PLC. CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CORNERSTONE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC. INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. LAW UNION AND ROCK INS. PLC. MANSARD INSURANCE PLC MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022 NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. PRESTIGE ASSURANCE CO. PLC. SOVEREIGN TRUST INSURANCE PLC STANDARD TRUST ASSURANCE PLC STANDARD ALLIANCE INSURANCE PLC. KAPITAL ASSURANCE PLC Published byUNITY The Nigerian Stock Exchange © UNIVERSAL INSURANCE COMPANY PLC Activity SummaryPLC on Board EQTY WAPIC INSURANCE

Current Price 1.91

9 of 14 Value Traded 121,920.00 5,130.00 1,246.80 33,154,191.02 98,382,360.67

SERVICES Advertising AFROMEDIA PLC Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 Advertising Totals Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022

Symbol No. of Deals GUARANTY 327 SKYEBANK 93 Daily Summary (Equities) STERLNBANK 37 UBA 188 UBN 76

Quantity Traded 129,600 1,560,078 32,662,102 129,225,370

No. of Deals 1 1

OIL AND GAS Totals

Value Traded 205,241,817.41 159,823,254.16 132,689,499.74 17,979,711.72

Current Price 0.50 0.95 24.50

Symbol MORISON

Page Quantity Traded 76,200 1,000 120 280,972 3,099,319

Petroleum and Stock Petroleum Products Distributors Published by The Nigerian Exchange © CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals

of 14 Value Traded 86,511,193.33

Quantity Traded 21,233,398 25,770,723 7,973,214 9,072,560

No. of Deals 4 33 360 1,604

Value Traded 50.00 50.00

Current Price 1.60 5.09 10.93 118.00

OIL AND GAS

Current Price 9.79 6.20 16.80 1.97

Symbol UNITYBNK WEMABANK ZENITHBANK

Quantity Traded 100 100

No. of Deals 1 1 2 32 217

Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals

181 63 148 94

FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals

Current Price 0.50

Symbol PAINTCOM PORTPAINT PREMPAINTS WAPCO

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 OIL AND GAS Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022 Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals

Symbol No. of Deals Daily Summary (Equities) ACCESS DIAMONDBNK ETI FIDELITYBK

COMPUTER WAREHOUSE GROUP PLC TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC. IT Services Totals

No. of Deals 1 1

ICT Totals

No. of Deals 6 51 25 127 2 211

CONSUMER GOODS Published byFood The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Products Food Products Totals

FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 FIDELITY BANK PLC FINANCIAL SERVICES Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022

Page Quantity Traded 8,523

Published byITThe Nigerian Stock Exchange © Services

Daily Summary as of GOODS 19/08/2014 INDUSTRIAL Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022 Building Materials

Symbol CHAMPION GUINNESS INTBREW NB PREMBREW

Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals

DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NATIONAL SALT CO. NIG. PLC N NIG. FLOUR MILLS PLC. Activity Summary Board UNION DICON on SALT PLC.EQTY

Current Price

101

CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. PREMIER BREWERIES PLC Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals

276,884,358.15

Current Price 5.30

Symbol

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Totals

27,974,494

No. of Deals 1 1

Daily Summary (Equities)

ESTATE © PublishedCONSTRUCTION/REAL by The Nigerian Stock Exchange Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

1 of 14 Value Traded 144,080,151.95 132,750,206.20 276,884,358.15

Symbol ARBICO

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Symbol SKYE SHELTER FUND PLC SKYESHELT Activity Summary Board EQTY UNION HOMESon REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST (REIT) UHOMREIT

Daily Summary as of 19/08/2014 Food Products Printed 19/08/2014 14:49:22.022 DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC

Symbol UNIONDAC

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol AIRSERVICE

Page

Symbol NAHCO

11 of 14 Value Traded 2,565.00 958,430.00

No. of Deals 42 48

Current Price 5.00

Quantity Traded 1,231,614 1,647,648

Value Traded 6,181,908.99 7,061,530.03

Symbol

No. of Deals

Current Price

Quantity Traded

Value Traded

Symbol CAVERTON

No. of Deals 15 15

Current Price 5.88

Quantity Traded 374,352 374,352

Value Traded 2,206,933.60 2,206,933.60

153

3,971,764

11,695,158.17

5,051

303,507,852

3,621,483,268.39

5,051

303,507,852

3,621,483,268.39

Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (ETP) Symbol NEWGOLD VETGRIF30

No. of Deals 2 2 4

Current Price 2,044.00 18.93

Quantity Traded 26 410 436

Value Traded 53,144.00 7,741.30 60,885.30

436

60,885.30

436 Page

13 60,885.30 of 14

Page

46 business | FINANCIAL MARKET NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

19-Aug-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

Price

FGN Bonds Issuer

Rating/Agency

Description 9.25 28-SEP-2014 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

28-Sep-07 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

9.25 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 12.15

100.00 535.00 530.27 452.80 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 600.00 281.35 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 70.00

28-Sep-14 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

0.11 0.68 1.99 2.69 2.94 3.03 3.78 4.86 5.18 7.44 9.57 14.28 14.76 15.26 15.93 19.91

10.93 11.02 11.32 11.34 11.38 11.38 11.43 11.48 11.61 12.07 12.22 12.39 12.38 12.37 12.20 12.32

9.58 10.20 11.24 11.28 11.31 11.26 11.33 11.40 11.52 12.01 12.17 12.35 12.34 12.32 12.15 12.28

99.78 95.52 103.00 108.45 96.26 94.90 97.76 116.45 82.42 120.80 111.00 117.20 100.67 73.68 84.70 98.70

99.93 96.02 103.15 108.60 96.41 95.20 98.06 116.75 82.72 121.10 111.30 117.50 100.97 73.98 85.00 99.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

4,591.19

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

4,664.06

Rating/Agency

Issuer

Agency Bonds AMCON FMBN

***LCRM

Description

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

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 3.30 112.22 116.70 66.49

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

0.20 0.76 1.37 2.31 2.67 2.88

1.00 2.63 2.27 2.00 1.00 1.00

11.72 13.67 13.46 13.35 12.36 12.37

97.73 90.40 104.87 100.47 98.87 96.37

15-Oct-14 31-Aug-15 30-Sep-15 30-Jun-16 30-Jun-16 19-Apr-17 30-Jun-17 31-Dec-17 30-Sep-18 04-Oct-18 09-Dec-18 12-Dec-18 14-Feb-19 02-Oct-19 22-Nov-19 12-Dec-19 30-Sep-20 27-Nov-20 31-Dec-20 31-Dec-20 06-Jan-21

0.16 1.03 0.64 1.16 1.16 2.67 1.71 3.37 2.34 4.13 2.54 2.54 2.92 2.99 5.26 3.05 3.67 6.27 6.37 3.85 3.88

3.29 4.44 3.23 4.46 3.48 5.59 1.00 1.79 1.80 1.00 1.00 4.78 1.00 1.00 1.00 2.74 1.00 1.00 1.94 1.44 1.95

14.11 15.55 14.24 15.60 14.62 16.95 12.27 13.19 13.15 12.46 12.36 16.14 12.38 12.38 12.63 14.12 12.43 12.94 13.91 12.88 13.39

99.88 97.18 99.61 98.69 101.33 85.52 102.47 102.09 101.85 104.82 104.72 95.95 104.97 107.76 106.97 101.53 106.51 102.28 104.44 104.76 104.69

1,301.62

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,273.99

Sub-National Bonds A-/GCR A+/Agusto A/Agusto Nil A+/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto A/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto; A-/GCR A/Agusto; A-/GCR† A-/Agusto A/Agusto; A-/GCR A/Agusto; A-/GCR Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR A/Agusto; A-/GCR A/Agusto Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR A-/Agusto; BBB+/DataPro A/Agusto A-/GCR

NIGER KADUNA *EBONYI *BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO *DELTA NIGER *EKITI *NIGER *ONDO *GOMBE LAGOS *OSUN *OSUN LAGOS KOGI *EKITI *NASARAWA

15-Oct-09 31-Aug-10 30-Sep-10 30-Jun-11 30-Jun-09 19-Apr-10 30-Jun-10 30-Dec-10 30-Sep-11 04-Oct-11 09-Dec-11 12-Dec-13 14-Feb-12 02-Oct-12 22-Nov-12 12-Dec-12 30-Sep-13 27-Nov-13 31-Dec-13 31-Dec-13 06-Jan-14

14.00 NIGER 15-OCT-2014 12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015 13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015 14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016 15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016 10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017 13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017 14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017 14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018 14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018 14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018 14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019 15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 14.75 OSUN II 30-SEP-2020 13.50 LAGOS IV 27-NOV-2020 15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021

14.00 12.50 13.00 14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.50 14.00 15.50 15.50 14.50 14.75 14.75 13.50 15.00 14.50 15.00

6.00 8.50 6.08 6.27 7.37 57.00 29.92 25.00 37.25 9.00 14.96 11.13 27.00 17.28 80.00 28.37 11.40 87.00 5.00 4.78 4.79

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Corporate Bonds

484.10 490.32

A+/Agusto; AA/GCR

LAFARGE WAPCO

11.50 LAFARGE WAPCO 7-OCT 2014

Aa/Agusto

GTB µ NGC

17.00 NGC 31-DEC-2014

Nil

10.00 UPDC 17-AUG-2015

Bbb-/Agusto A-/Agusto

*UPDC

BB+/GCR

*CHELLARAMS

*FLOURMILLS

A+/Agusto; A-/GCR A-/Agusto

NAHCO

BBB-/GCR BBB+/DataPro†; BB+/GCR A-/DataPro†; BB-/GCR AAA/DataPro†; A+/GCR A/Agusto; A/GCR Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR BBB-/DataPro†; BB+/GCR BBB/GCR A+/Agusto; A-/GCR

12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015 14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016 13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016

FSDH

A/GCR

13.50 GUARANTY TRUST 18-DEC-2014

UBA

13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017

*C & I LEASING *DANA#

MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018

*TOWER *TOWER

18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017

MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

UBA

14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018

*LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS#

MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019

*DANA NAHCO

15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020

07-Oct-11

11.50

11.80

07-Oct-14

0.13

1.00

11.87

99.89

18-Dec-09

13.50

13.17

18-Dec-14

0.33

5.21

15.94

99.12

01-Apr-10

17.00

2.00

31-Dec-14

0.37

8.71

19.49

99.00

17-Aug-10

10.00

3.61

17-Aug-15

0.75

4.88

15.92

96.01

09-Dec-10

12.00

13.62

09-Dec-15

0.83

1.00

12.05

100.49

06-Jan-11

14.00

0.60

06-Jan-16

0.90

2.63

13.70

100.70

29-Sep-11

13.00

15.00

29-Sep-16

2.11

1.00

12.34

101.15

25-Oct-13

14.25

5.53

25-Oct-16

2.18

1.34

12.69

102.85

30-Sep-10

13.00

20.00

30-Sep-17

3.12

1.00

12.39

101.51

30-Nov-12

18.00

0.73

30-Nov-17

1.93

1.88

13.20

109.18

09-Apr-11

16.00

7.20

09-Apr-18

1.89

3.48

14.79

102.28

09-Sep-11

18.00

3.27

09-Sep-18

2.06

5.20

16.54

102.71

09-Sep-11

16.00

0.90

09-Sep-18

2.06

5.06

16.40

101.75

22-Sep-11

14.00

35.00

22-Sep-18

4.09

1.35

12.81

103.68

18-Oct-13

15.75

2.70

18-Oct-18

2.16

2.29

13.64

104.21

17-Feb-12

17.00

0.41

17-Feb-19

2.49

6.11

17.46

99.15

01-Apr-14

16.00

4.50

01-Apr-19

3.37

2.16

13.56

106.39

14-Nov-13

15.25

2.05

14-Nov-20

6.24

2.76

14.69

102.16

11-Feb-18

3.48

1.00

12.41

93.89

Bid Price

Offer Price

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

142.08

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

144.56

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

IFC

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

Issuer

12.00 11.27 Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

6.75 JAN 28, 2021

07-Oct-11

6.75

500.00

28-Jan-21

4.73

4.58

111.12

112.00

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

12-Jul-13

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

3.92

3.71

104.29

105.07

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

12-Jul-13

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

5.04

4.93

109.49

110.30

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

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

FGN

BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,624.48

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

AFREN PLC I

11.50 FEB 01, 2016

01-Feb-11

11.50

450.00

01-Feb-16

3.71

2.96

111.45

112.64

GTBANK PLC I

7.50 MAY 19, 2016

19-May-11

7.50

500.00

19-May-16

4.52

3.91

104.92

105.98

GTBANK PLC

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

6.16

5.89

99.41

100.39

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

7.03

6.41

100.59

102.30

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

8.74

8.16

94.16

95.95

10.25 APR 08, 2019

08-Apr-12

10.25

300.00

08-Apr-19

7.83

7.19

107.49

109.18

6.25 APR 22, 2019

B+/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC

B/S&P; B/Fitch

FIDELITY BANK PLC

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

AFREN PLC

22-Apr-14

6.25

500.00

22-Apr-19

6.39

6.09

99.41

100.66

B/Fitch; B/S&P

8.75 May 21, 2019

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

8.98

8.73

99.12

100.04

B/S&P; B-/Fitch

DIAMOND BANK PLC FIRST BANK PLC

8.25 AUG 07, 2020

07-Aug-13

8.25

300.00

07-Aug-20

7.26

6.56

103.42

105.92

B+/S&P; B+/Fitch

AFREN PLC

6.63 DEC 09, 2020

09-Dec-13

6.63

360.00

09-Dec-20

6.00

5.10

104.41

105.89

ZENITH BANK PLC

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

3,660.00 3,762.21

**Treasury Bills DTM 9 16 23 30 37 44 51 58 65

FIXINGS Maturity 28-Aug-14 4-Sep-14 11-Sep-14 18-Sep-14 25-Sep-14 2-Oct-14 9-Oct-14 16-Oct-14 23-Oct-14

Bid Discount (%) 10.55 10.80 10.45 10.65 10.60 10.65 10.65 10.60 10.55

Offer Discount (%) 10.30 10.55 10.20 10.40 10.35 10.40 10.40 10.35 10.30

Bid Yield (%) 10.58 10.85 10.52 10.74 10.72 10.79 10.81 10.78 10.75

Money Market

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 14.2083 14.3136 14.7251 15.2407

NITTY

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards)

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

14.00

Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

O/N

14.38

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

162.05 162.40 162.66 163.25 164.44 165.69 169.34

162.15 162.66 163.00 163.91 165.64 167.32 172.94

Tenor Call 1M 3M

REPO

Rate (%) 13.83 13.76 14.31

(%)

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

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

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

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

978.35 24.56 3.30 112.22 116.70 66.49

0.20 0.76 1.37 2.31 2.67 2.88

Sub-National Bonds Wednesday, August 20, 2014 A-/GCR NIGER KADUNA *EBONYI *BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO *DELTA NIGER *EKITI *NIGER *ONDO *GOMBE LAGOS *OSUN *OSUN LAGOS KOGI *EKITI *NASARAWA

FMDQ moves to buoy liquidity in financial market

Stories by Chris Ugwu

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE n a bid to provide transparTOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

ency in the Nigerian over(OTC) market A+/Agusto; AA/GCR LAFARGE WAPCO and affirming its stance Aa/Agusto as a market data GTB repository, NGC Nil FMDQ OTC PLC (FMDQ) will Bbb-/Agusto *UPDC be providing data on the acA-/Agusto *FLOURMILLS BB+/GCR of the OTC tivities market to *CHELLARAMS A+/Agusto; A-/GCRstakeholders. NAHCO all market A-/Agusto FSDH will use Specifically, FMDQ A/GCR UBA submissions by its Dealing BBB-/GCR *C & I LEASING Corporate Bonds the-counter

BBB+/DataPro†; BB+/GCR

Members on their dealing activities in the OTC market products - Foreign Exchange (FX), Treasury Bills (T.Bills), Bonds and Money Market in determining the overall OTC market turnover. The information will be published in the newspapers and also made available via the ‘Markets’ page of the FMDQ website. In the first half of the year, the dealing members achieved an overall OTC market turnover of circa N43 trillion, with 11.50 LAFARGE WAPCO 7-OCT 2014 the top 10 dealing members ac13.50 GUARANTY TRUST 18-DEC-2014 counting for over 70 per cent of 17.00 NGC 31-DEC-2014 this 10.00turnover. UPDC 17-AUG-2015 Tumi Sekoni, the Business 12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015 14.00 CHELLARAMSOfficer 06-JAN-2016at FMDQ, Development 13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 said the securities exchange is 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 strategically and uniquely po13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 sitioned to provide timely OTC 18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017

*DANA

MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018

*TOWER#

MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

market data and analytics to all stakeholders; and information on the OTC markets’ global competitiveness. “With the concerted efforts of the Dealing Members and FMDQ, the OTC market initiatives are geared to improve liquidity, transparency, governance and efficiency,” Sekoni said. She noted that the FMDQ markets are set to achieve a full year turnover of N80 trillion by 07-Oct-11 2014. 11.50 December 18-Dec-09 13.50 “The FMDQ OTC Market 01-Apr-10 17.00 Turnover Report will show the 17-Aug-10 10.00 turnover on all products 09-Dec-10 12.00 traded 06-Jan-11 14.00 on the FMDQ platform – FX, 29-Sep-11 13.00 (RepurT.Bills, Money Market 25-Oct-13 chase Agreements 14.25 and Unse30-Sep-10 13.00 cured Placements/Takings) and 30-Nov-12 18.00

6.00 8.50 6.08 6.27 7.37 57.00 29.92 25.00 37.25 9.00 14.96 11.13 27.00 17.28 80.00 28.37 11.40 87.00 5.00 4.78 4.79

0.16 1.03 0.64 1.16 1.16 2.67 1.71 3.37 2.34 4.13 2.54 2.54 2.92 2.99 5.26 3.05 3.67 6.27 6.37 3.85 3.88

07-Oct-14

0.13

AAA/DataPro†; A+/GCR A/Agusto; A/GCR

Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR

BBB-/DataPro†; BB+/GCR

*TOWER#

MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

UBA

14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018

*LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS#

art of Forte Oil’s immedi*DANA A+/Agusto; A-/GCR ate strategic initiative is NAHCO TOTAL VALUE to OUTSTANDING achieve the installed TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION capacity of 414mw at Geregu through the major overhaul of Supranational Bond the Geregu Power Plant. AAA/S&P IFC The OUTSTANDING Group ChiefVALUE Executive TOTAL Officer of the Company , Mr. TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Akin Akinfemiwa, said this whileRating/Agency addressing investment Issuer community at the company’s FGN Eurobonds 'facts behind the figures' at the floor of the Nigerian Stock ExBB-/Fitch; B+/S&P change (NSE) in Lagos in yesBB-/Fitch; FGN terday BB-/S&P. He said the company is inBB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P vesting $90 million for the projTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE ect. TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Akinfemiwa noted that the investment, which is aimed Corporate Eurobonds at boosting the power supply B-/S&P; B/Fitch AFREN PLC I from the plant by GTBANK 60 perPLCcent I B+/S&P; B+/Fitch was done through the award of GTBANK PLC aB+/S&P $90 million for circa. ACCESS BANK PLC "ToB/Fitch achieve and generate the B/S&P; FIDELITY BANK PLC B/Fitch installed capacity AFREN of 414 PLC MW B+/Fitch; Watts) BB-/S&P at Geregu ZENITH BANK PLC (Mega through BBB/GCR

B/Fitch; B/S&P

15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018

MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019

the major overhaul of the GPP, 16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019 15.25 NAHCOfor II 14-NOV-2020 contract Circa $90 million has been awarded," he stated. Other strategic initiatives, which the group would be embarking on, include increasing 10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018 its distribution efficiency; diversification into related high margin products, among others. Forte Oil's Description share price has witnessed about 151.86 per cent growth year to date. Akinfemiwa attributed the 6.75 JAN 28, 2021 impressive patronage to the JUL 12, 2018 transcompany’s 5.13 three-year formation programme, which 6.38 JUL 12, 2023 began in 2011, which sought to reposition Forte Oil Plc as a market leader. During the transformation programme, the company 11.50 FEB 01, 2016 changed its ERP from Oracle to 7.50 MAY 19, 2016 SAP, improved 6.00 corporate NOV 08, 2018 governance; increased . 7.25 JULprofitability 25, 2017 6.88 MAY Akinfemiwa 09, 2018 Furthermore, 08, 2019 stated that 10.25 theAPR company em6.25 APR 22, 2019 barked on capital re-organisa8.75 May 21, 2019

Bonds (FGN Bonds and Other Bonds). “The FX and interest rate plain-vanilla risk management products (derivatives) are becoming significant due to the efforts of FMDQ Dealing Members. The figures for the derivatives are embedded in the FX and Money Market product categories,” she explained. 484.10FMDQ turnover figures ex490.32 clude primary market auctions 11.80

3.29 4.44 3.23 4.46 3.48 5.59 1.00 1.79 1.80 1.00 1.00 4.78 1.00 1.00 1.00 2.74 1.00 1.00 1.94 1.44 1.95

14.11 15.55 14.24 15.60 14.62 16.95 12.27 13.19 13.15 12.46 12.36 16.14 12.38 12.38 12.63 14.12 12.43 12.94 13.91 12.88 13.39

1.00

11.87

99.88 97.18 99.61 98.69 101.33 85.52 102.47 102.09 101.85 104.82 104.72 95.95 104.97 107.76 106.97 101.53 106.51 102.28 104.44 104.76 104.69

in TBills, OMO Bills, Bonds, FX Retail Dutch Auction System and transactions of the Dealing Members at the CBN standing facilities window. The OTC turnover data represents trades executed between dealing members; dealing members and clients; dealing members and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in FX, T.bills, Bonds and Money Market products,” she said. 99.89

Shoprite shares slump despite 27% rise in offshore sales

13.17

18-Dec-14

0.33

5.21

15.94

99.12

2.00

31-Dec-14

0.37

8.71

19.49

99.00

3.61

17-Aug-15

0.75

4.88

15.92

96.01

13.62

09-Dec-15

0.83

1.00

12.05

100.49

0.60

06-Jan-16

0.90

2.63

13.70

100.70

15.00

29-Sep-16

2.11

1.00

12.34

101.15

5.53

25-Oct-16

2.18

1.34

12.69

102.85

20.00

30-Sep-17

3.12

1.00

12.39

101.51

outh Africa's Shoprite 0.73 30-Nov-17 1.93 of a continuing 09-Apr-11 16.00 7.20 warned09-Apr-18 1.89 09-Sep-11 18.00 3.27 squeeze09-Sep-18 2.06 on the country's 09-Sep-11 16.00 0.90 2.06 its consumers09-Sep-18 after posting 22-Sep-11 14.00 35.00 22-Sep-18 4.09 slowest profit growth in 15 18-Oct-13 15.75 2.70 18-Oct-18 2.16 years, sending its shares to a 17-Feb-12 17.00 0.41 17-Feb-19 2.49 tion 01-Apr-14 exercise; acquired five-month 01-Apr-19 low. 16.00 power 4.50 3.37 14-Nov-13 15.25 is the 2.05 According 14-Nov-20 to Reuters, 6.24 some generation asset, that investors fear spending could Geregu Power Plant, became 142.08 no one performing share on the 144.56 diminish further because NSE, among other milestones. household debt has grown to Apart from these milestones, about 75 per11-Feb-18 cent of disposable 11-Feb-13 10.20 12.00 3.48 he added that the company's income, just as the economy 12.00 half year result for the period 11.27 hits a rough patch. ended June 30, 2014 closed in the "There's not much relief Outstanding green as the group's profit after in Value sight for the beleaguered Issue Date Coupon (%) Maturity Date Bid Yield (%) tax rose to N3.13 billion from the (N'bn) South African consumers," N1.39 billion that was achieved said Whitey Basson, Shoprite's managing director. "What4.73was in the corresponding period of 500.00 07-Oct-11 6.75 28-Jan-21 experienced on the sales floor 2013. 12-Jul-13 12-Jul-18 3.92 Revenue followed5.13the same 500.00 was a reflection of the country's broader economy ." pattern jumping to N79.61 bil12-Jul-13 6.38 500.00 12-Jul-23 5.04 The Cape Town-based comlion up from the N59.96 billion 1,500.00 that was earned in the prior pe- pany, which has stores in sev1,624.48 eral other African countries riod of 2013. Total Comprehensive Income including Nigeria, Angola and grew01-Feb-11 from the preceding year's 450.00 Zambia, said outlets outside 11.50 01-Feb-16 3.71 South Africa delivered a 27 per N1.38 billion to N3.10 billion in 500.00 19-May-11 7.50 19-May-16 4.52 cent rise in sales, about three the review period. 08-Nov-13 6.00 400.00 08-Nov-18 6.16 times the growth Also, the group's Basic Earn- 350.00 25-Jul-12 7.25 25-Jul-17 rate at home. 7.03 ings09-May-13 Per Share (EPS)6.88 improved 300.00Shoprite,02-May-18 as well as other 8.74 lo08-Apr-12 10.25 7.83 to N1.91 from N1.29 achieved in 300.00 cal retailers,08-Apr-19 has been pushing 22-Apr-14 500.00 6.39 the erstwhile year. 6.25 into the rest22-Apr-19 of Africa, where a

Forte Oil targets $90m power plant A-/DataPro†; BB-/GCR

97.73 90.40 104.87 100.47 98.87 96.37

business | FINANCIAL MARKET NEWS

14.00 12.50 13.00 14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.50 14.00 15.50 15.50 14.50 14.75 14.75 13.50 15.00 14.50 15.00

FMDQ activates OTC market report

11.72 13.67 13.46 13.35 12.36 12.37

1,273.99

Sanctity of Truth

UPGRADE

1.00 2.63 2.27 2.00 1.00 1.00

1,301.62

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

A+/Agusto A/Agusto Nil A+/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto A/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto; A-/GCR A/Agusto; A-/GCR† A-/Agusto A/Agusto; A-/GCR A/Agusto; A-/GCR Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR A/Agusto; A-/GCR A/Agusto Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR A-/Agusto; BBB+/DataPro A/Agusto A-/GCR

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

nascent but fast-growing middle 1.88 13.20 109.18 class 3.48 is boosting 14.79 demand. 102.28 5.20 16.54 102.71sells "One store in Nigeria 5.06 16.40of wine 101.75 350,000 bottles a year, 1.35 12.81 103.68 that's more than the nine stores 2.29 13.64 104.21 in6.11 Winelands," 17.46Basson said, 99.15 referring to a Cape Town106.39 region 2.16 13.56 2.76 where some14.69 of South 102.16 Africa's best-known wines are produced. South Africa's economy shrank in the first quarter, hit by1.00 a drop in consumer spending 12.41 93.89 that had boosted expansion of closer to 5 per cent before the country slipped into recession in 2009. Offer Yield (%) Bid Price Offer Price Shoprite, which focuses on Prices & Yields for low-income staple products and working-class consumers, 4.58 111.12 112.00 was also hit this year by a five3.71 104.29 in the platinum 105.07 month stoppage sector, the longest strike in the 109.49 4.93 110.30 country's history. The company said the strike cost it about 1 billion rand ($94 million) in lost sales, about 1 percent of its total. 2.96 111.45 112.64 Shoprite,104.92 Africa's 105.98 biggest 3.91 retailer, reported a 3.3 percent 5.89 99.41 100.39 rise earn6.41 in full-year 100.59 headline 102.30 ings to 6.97 rand, 8.16 per share 94.16 95.95 well 7.19 109.18 in a below a 7.29107.49 rand estimate 6.09 100.66 Reuters poll99.41 of 16 analysts.

DIAMOND BANK PLC FIRST BANK PLC

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

8.98

8.73

99.12

100.04

B/S&P; B-/Fitch

8.25 AUG 07, 2020

07-Aug-13

8.25

300.00

07-Aug-20

7.26

6.56

103.42

105.92

B+/S&P; B+/Fitch

AFREN PLC

6.63 DEC 09, 2020

09-Dec-13

6.63

360.00

09-Dec-20

6.00

5.10

104.41

105.89

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

3,660.00 3,762.21

19-Aug-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 FIXINGS Money Market Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) the FMDQ OTC PLC Terms of Use and Disclaimer Statement on www.fmdqotc.com.

**Treasury Bills

DTM Maturity Bid Discount (%) 9 28-Aug-14 10.55 16 4-Sep-14 10.80 23 11-Sep-14 10.45 FGN Bonds 30 18-Sep-14 10.65 37 25-Sep-14 10.60 Issuer Description Rating/Agency 44 2-Oct-14 10.65 51 9-Oct-14 10.65 58 16-Oct-14 10.60 9.25 28-SEP-2014 65 23-Oct-14 10.55 4.00 23-APR-2015 72 30-Oct-14 10.50 13.05 16-AUG-2016 79 6-Nov-14 10.20 15.10 27-APR-2017 86 13-Nov-14 10.55 9.85 27-JUL-2017 93 20-Nov-14 10.20 9.35 31-AUG-2017 100 27-Nov-14 10.80 107 4-Dec-14 10.10 10.70 30-MAY-2018 114 11-Dec-14 10.75 16.00 29-JUN-2019 NA NA 128 25-Dec-14 10.80 7.00 23-OCT-2019 142 8-Jan-15 10.30 16.39 27-JAN-2022 156 22-Jan-15 10.30 14.20 14-MAR-2024 170 5-Feb-15 10.40 15.00 28-NOV-2028 184 19-Feb-15 10.40 198 5-Mar-15 10.40 12.49 22-MAY-2029 233 9-Apr-15 10.10 8.50 20-NOV-2029 247 23-Apr-15 10.25 10.00 23-JUL-2030 261 7-May-15 10.15 12.1493 18-JUL-2034 352 6-Aug-15 10.25 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE *from the Amortising bonds, the average life is calculated and not the duration

Offer Discount (%) 10.30 10.55 10.20 10.40 10.35 Issue 10.40Date 10.40 10.35 28-Sep-07 10.30 23-Apr-10 10.25 16-Aug-13 9.95 27-Apr-12 10.30 27-Jul-07 9.95 31-Aug-07 10.55 9.85 30-May-08 10.50 29-Jun-12 10.55 23-Oct-09 10.05 27-Jan-12 10.05 14-Mar-14 10.15 28-Nov-08 10.15 10.15 22-May-09 9.85 20-Nov-09 10.00 23-Jul-10 9.90 18-Jul-14 10.00

Bid Yield (%) 10.58 10.85 10.52 10.74 10.72 Coupon 10.79 (%) 10.81 10.78 9.25 10.75 4.00 10.72 13.05 10.43 15.10 10.82 9.85 10.47 9.35 11.13 10.41 10.70 11.12 16.00 11.23 7.00 10.73 16.39 10.77 14.20 10.93 15.00 10.98 11.02 12.49 10.80 8.50 11.01 10.00 10.94 12.15 11.37

O/N 1M 3M Outstanding 6M

(N'bn)

Rate (%)

OBB

14.00

O/N

14.38

REPO TTM Bid Yield Tenor(Yrs) Rate (%) (%) Call 1M 0.11 3M 0.68 6M

AMCON

Modified Duration FMBN Buckets

***LCRM <3

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

3<5 >5

Market

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

13.83 13.76 10.93 14.31 11.02 14.86

Tenor Spot 7D 14D Yield Offer 1M (%) 2M 3M 9.58 6M 10.20 1Y

1.99 11.32 11.24 2.69 11.34 11.28 2.94 11.38 11.31 :Benchmarks 3.03 11.38 11.26 * :Amortising Bond 3.78 11.43 11.33 µ :Convertible 4.86Bond 11.48 11.40 AMCON: Asset of Nigeria 5.18Management Corporation 11.61 11.52 FGN: Federal Government of Nigeria 7.44 12.07 12.01 FMBN: Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria 9.57 Finance Corporation 12.22 12.17 IFC: International 14.28 12.39 Management 12.35 LCRM: Local Contractors Receivables NAHCO: Nigerian 14.76 Aviation Handling 12.38 Company 12.34 O/N: Overnight 15.26 12.37 12.32 UPDC: UAC15.93 Property Development 12.20Company 12.15 WAPCO:West Africa Portland Cement Company 19.91 12.32 12.28 NOTE:

Bid ($/N) 162.05 162.40 162.66 Bid Price 163.25 164.44 165.69 99.78 169.34 95.52 177.12

Offer ($/N)

Price 162.15 162.66 163.00

Offer 163.91Price 165.64 167.32 99.93 172.94 96.02 184.11

103.00 103.15 108.45 108.60 96.26 96.41 94.90 95.20 NA :Not Applicable # :Floating Rate Bond 97.76 98.06 ***: Deferred coupon bonds 116.45 116.75 82.42 82.72 †: Bond rating expired 120.80 121.10 111.00 111.30 117.20 117.50 NGC: Nigeria-German Company 100.67 100.97 UBA: United 73.68Bank for Africa 73.98 84.70 85.00 98.70 99.00

4,664.06 Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

FMDQ FGN BOND INDEX

Agency Bonds NA

Tenor

4,591.19

Risk Premium is a combination of credit risk and liquidity risk premiums TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION **Exclusive of non-trading t.bills

Issuer

Value

Rate (%) 14.2083 14.3136 14.7251 Maturity 15.2407 Date

100.00 28-Sep-14 535.00 NITTY 23-Apr-15 530.27 16-Aug-16 Tenor Rate (%) 452.80 27-Apr-17 1M 10.7440 20.00 27-Jul-17 2M 10.7892 100.00 31-Aug-17 3M 10.9187 6M 10.9490 300.00 30-May-18 9M 10.9633 351.30 29-Jun-19 12M 11.3640 233.90 23-Oct-19 600.00 27-Jan-22 281.35 14-Mar-24 NIFEX 75.00 28-Nov-28 Current Price ($/N)22-May-29 150.00 BID($/N) 200.00 162.0050 20-Nov-29 OFFER ($/N) 162.1050 591.57 23-Jul-30 70.00 18-Jul-34

Rating/Agency

NIBOR

BondsTenor

0.00 AMCON 31-OCT-2014 (SR.5 TR.1) 0.00Porfolio FMB 24-MAY-2015 Market Total Outstanding Volume(Bn) 17.25 Value(Bn) FMB II 03-APR-2017 0.00/16.00 LCRM 09-DEC-2016 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 20-APR-2017 1,037.24 983.07 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017 1,133.89 951.30

28-Dec-11

Weighting by 24-May-10 Outstanding Vol 03-Apr-12

09-Dec-11 35.02 20-Apr-12 06-Jul-12 33.89

0.00

0.00/16.00 34.75 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50 37.99

978.35 24.56 3.30 112.22 116.700.35 66.490.34

0.31 1,301.62

Weighting by Mkt 0.00 Value 17.25

813.36

872.92

31.09

27.25

2,984.49

2,807.29

100.00

Bucket Weighting

1.00

1,273.99

31-Oct-14

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

09-Dec-16 16.51 20-Apr-17 06-Jul-17 34.47

0.20 0.76 1.37 2.31 11.33 2.67 2.88 11.89

49.02 100.00

% Exposure_ 24-May-15 Mod_Duration 03-Apr-17

Risk Premium (%)

Indicative Price

2.00 118.4762 1.00 1.00 134.2419

11.72 13.67 13.46 13.35 1,125.28 12.36 12.37 1,136.71

12.20

102.5882

1,196.77

19.6774

11.95

118.8784

1,129.22

12.9218

14.11 15.55 14.24 15.60 14.62 16.95 12.27 13.19 13.15

99.88 97.18 99.61 98.69 101.33 85.52 102.47 102.09 101.85

Implied Yield

1.00

Valuation Yield (%)

Implied 2.63 Portfolio Price 2.27

INDEX

97.73

YTD Return 90.40 (%) 104.87

100.47 12.5282 98.87 96.37 13.6709

Sub-National Bonds A-/GCR A+/Agusto A/Agusto Nil A+/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto A/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

NIGER KADUNA *EBONYI *BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO *DELTA

15-Oct-09 31-Aug-10 30-Sep-10 30-Jun-11 30-Jun-09 19-Apr-10 30-Jun-10 30-Dec-10 30-Sep-11

14.00 12.50 13.00 14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00

6.00 8.50 6.08 6.27 7.37 57.00 29.92 25.00 37.25

15-Oct-14 31-Aug-15 30-Sep-15 30-Jun-16 30-Jun-16 19-Apr-17 30-Jun-17 31-Dec-17 30-Sep-18

0.16 1.03 0.64 1.16 1.16 2.67 1.71 3.37 2.34

3.29 4.44 3.23 4.46 3.48 5.59 1.00 1.79 1.80

48 POLITICS

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Chibok girls: Knocks for northern elders CO N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 3

utilise all access to power which they enjoy, to bring us redress and relief,” Dalung noted. In dismissing the position of NEF, the NEC described its (NEF) pronouncements as the utterances of rabble rousers. NEC said: “Insurgency does not recognise sectional, ethnic, linguistic or cultural interests as it has no respect for them. “It is necessary to also appreciate our security agencies for their untiring efforts and sacrifice to end the senseless killing of our fellow citizens. Terrorism, as we all are aware, is a global phenomenon and any attempt to politicise it will not augur well for our country. “It is time that we understood and fully appreciate the danger posed by this menace so that we put all hands on deck and cooperate with government and our security agencies towards ending the scourge.” NEC maintained that contrary to the picture being painted by NEF, President Jonathan has been responding appropriately to the insurgency and has mobilised the necessary logistics and international support to curb the wave of insecurity, in addition to establishing the Insurgency Victims Fund meant to rehabilitate the victims of terror and rebuild the North East. Mammam urged NEF not to dabble into the delicate and complex issue of hostages as the Federal Government had its own strategies of ensuring that the Chibok girls released alive. On its part, Afenifere, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, pointed out that it was a wicked and insensitive ploy to turn the misfortune of the Chibok girls and their parents to an electoral weapon. According to Afenifere, “In all the sound and fury of the Forum, we searched in vain any outright condemnation of Boko Haram (by the Northern Elders Forum). And this has been the pattern of most reactions from the majority of the elites of the region that always appear politically correct to the insurgents while using their activities to rattle the government. “A traumatized country that has been held in anxiety over the fate of the abducted girls cannot but challenge these elders at this stage to appeal to their wards in Boko Haram to release the innocent young girls who now appear cannon fodders in the struggle for we want our power back. “A time has come to let these elites know they can no longer play the ostrich by burying their heads in the sand and think no one sees them because they are seeing no one,” it said. Afenifere noted with regrets that a familiar pattern had played out at the just-concluded National Conference where some of these elites pushed for Boko Haram to become a derivative item as they insisted on a first line charge five per cent National Intervention Fund for “insurgency and terrorism” to be shared among North East(three per cent), North West(one per cent) and North Central(one per cent) According to the group, “Shortly after the conference adjourned, there was an increase in insurgency in the North West which would appear an attempt to alter the sharing formula of this terrorism fund,” it said. “We however frown at the disingenuous attempt by unconscionable elites who are now dishing out two months ultimatum to end an insurgency that they prepared the atmosphere for in decades of exploitation and iniquitous dealings with their own people. Can they name one country that has defeated terror in 60 days? “How many rulers have we had in

Mamman

Okupe

Abdullahi

Dalung

Nigeria since 1960 and how many come from the North? Why did it not occur to any of them that the Almajiris should go to school?” Afenifere asked. The group, while noting that the country has suffered enough of the errors of “these leaders” which has now produced terror in the land, advised that they should stop pouring salt on the injury. In the contention of Afenifere, what the country requires at the moment is the joining of hands by patriots all over Nigeria across all divides to end the reign of terror ravaging the country, stressing that there must be a country within which people can struggle for power. The presidency also accused the Forum of mischief over its allegation that the Goodluck Jonathan administration is sponsoring insurgency to decimate the Muslim-dominated North. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe, in a statement said such alle-

Terrorism, as we all are aware, is a global phenomenon and any attempt to politicise it will not augur well for our country

gation was “preposterous, contrary to common sense, divisive and essentially a deliberate attempt to disseminate ‘hate mentality’ and cause mischief.” Okupe made it pointedly clear that the President has been doing enough to rescue the schoolgirls and end Boko Haram’s campaign of terror, pointing out that he (the President) does not need an ultimatum to do his work as President. According to him, “We wish to state categorically that President Jonathan does not require any threat or ultimatum from any group of persons to be alive to his responsibilities to the Nigerian people. The issue of insurgency, especially those ideologically based on Islamic extremism, is a global phenomenon and requires tact, military capability, serious de-radicalisation techniques and community-based counter insurgency programmes to ensure success. “In these areas, the Federal Government is making progress. We are improving on our operational capabilities and efficiencies by acquiring more advanced weapons and technologies for our military and security agencies. “We are deploying more resources to maximise operational efficiency, acquire more advanced and relevant weaponry and boost the general morale of our combatants. This is why the government recently requested for an additional funding of $1billion. “And the last piece in the puzzle is targeting the domestic and international funding, and stopping the money flows into the coffers of the terrorists. What

the country needs today is total co-operation of all its citizens and stakeholders, with the government and our military and the security agencies,” he said. The presidential aide, however, assured Nigerians that in spite of the ultimatum by the NEF and many more distractions, the President is focused on continued successful executions of his transformation agenda; and the guarantee of the security of lives and properties of the Nigerian people. Considering the various reactions of the other groups to the ultimatum issued to the President by the NEF, it will be pertinent to question the reality or possibility of solving a problem that had existed for years within just about 60 days. It is equally imperative for NEF to tell the whole world the efforts they, on their part, have made in finding a solution to this issue of insurgency, which has become like a nut too hard to crack. It is also apt to demand from the NEF why they have chosen to start playing politics with serious issues of national concern like the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls and the problem of insurgency in the North-East in particular, which appeared to have brought the entire nation to its knees. The logical thing, at this stage, should be for every patriotic Nigerian, regardless of any sentiment, to join hands with the present administration in finding a lasting solution to the problem of insurgency in the land as well as other prevailing challenges at hand.

NEWS 49

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

TICKET

Kaduna governor has more work to do in the south as opposition mounts Ibraheem Musa KADUNA

arely a week after political office holders from Southern Kaduna endorsed Governor Muktar Yero as their sole candidate for the 2015 gubernatorial election, elders from the area have said that there will be no automatic ticket for anyone except President Goodluck Jonathan. Speaking under the auspices of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Elders Forum in South-

Southern Kaduna elders denounce Yero's 2015 ambition ern Kaduna yesterday, Senator Haruna Zego Aziz also said their people will vehemently reject imposition of candidates and financial inducement from unnamed quarters. He said ‘no money, no force, no intimidation and divide and rule will work over us’. According to him, the people of Southern Kaduna are yet to meet and take a decision on the political direction of the area but that “the generality of Southern Kaduna people are for President Jonathan, but any other person will not have automatic ticket in Southern Kaduna.”

Last Thursday, Senator Nenadi Usman who currently represents the area at the senate, led a group of political office holders from Southern Kaduna to endorse Yero as their sole candidate, advising gubernatorial aspirants from the area to bury their ambitions. Criticisms have continued to trail the endorsement, especially from Southern Kaduna sociopolitical groups. Senator Aziz who was at the upper legislative chamber from 1999 to 2003, denounced the endorsement yesterday. According to Aziz, the Southern Kaduna Elders

are studying last week’s endorsement. “We will go back to our villages to seek their opinion, even though we already know but we will go back and confirm because we respect them”, he added. Senator Aziz who is seen as the dominant power broker in the area following the deaths of Governor Patrick Yakowa, Senator Isaiah Balat, Chief Garba Ali Madaki and others, warned outsiders from interfering in Southern Kaduna politics ‘because we are capable of handling ourselves and we will not tolerate any form of imposition.’

Group slams Ex-MEND leader over assassination plot Chris Ejim YENAGOA

group, the Grassroots A(GrassCore) Connect for Restoration yesterday

slammed a former leader of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), Paul Eris generally known as General Ogunboss over his open letter to President Goodluck Jonathan alleging that the State Governor,Hon. Seriake Dickson is disloyal and part of a plot to assassinate him (Ogunboss). According to the group, looking at the antecedent of Ogunboss under the last administration

and before the Amnesty programme extended by the Federal Government, his accusation against Dickson is irresponsible and another calculated attempt to create a bad relationship between the Governor and President Goodluck Jonathan. GrassCore in a statement issued yesterday in Yenagoa and signed by the National Coordinator,Hon.Nyenye Kuro Mathias called on the security agencies to investigate the ex-militant’s alleged perjury and false claims. "How can a man like that claim that a sitting Governor is disloyal to the President?"

Niger Assembly passes 36 bills into law in three years Dan Atori MINNA

order to sustain the Ithenstandard already set by House leadership, the

Seventh legislature of the Niger State House of Assembly said it has passed into law, thirty six bills since its inauguration in 2011. Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Barrister Adamu Usman announced this yesterday in his address to welcome back the lawmakers from recess. According to Usman, out of the number, thirty two bills have been assented to by the Governor while four are awaiting

his signature. Fifteen other bills are pending with various House Standing Committees for further legislative work. "This feat is attributed to the collective effort and commitment as well as unity of purpose among lawmakers, and in achieving this success, we have individually and collectively put the interest of our electorate above any consideration.

LAND FOR SALE

2 plots of land for sale at Masters Golden Estate Mowe. Partly developed building plus empty plot @ Alagbole, Off Cele Bus- Stop, Alagbole. Prices negotiable. Contact: Victoria Chambers, 08033127357.

PUBLIC NOTICE L-R: Top golf players, Mr. I.K. Allagoa; Mr. Hassan Adeyemo and Mr. Reuben Eguche, at the tee-point, during the Eastern Regional Qualifiers of the MTN World Golfers Championship at the Port Harcourt Golf Club, Rivers State

Akinlade: Why I want to Sacked doctors: Igboeli, unseat Amosun Eteng sue for dialogue

Kunle Olayeni ABEOKUTA

House of Representatives member, Abiodun Akinlade has said his decision to contest for the Ogun State governorship in 2015 was borne out of the urgent need to bring governance closer to the people. Akinlade, who defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in July, spoke when he formally submitted his letter of intent to vie for the governorship at the PDP state secretariat in Abeokuta. The federal lawmaker was accompanied to the party secretariat on Monday by some serving and former members of the House of Assembly, former commissioners and former local government chairmen in the state. Akinlade expressed dissatisfaction with the programmes and policies of the incumbent governor,

Senator Ibikunle Amosun, describing them as “antipeople.” He alleged that the state government demolished property without adequate compensation for victims. He also faulted the construction of 26 model schools by the government at a cost of over N21billion, saying “three years down the line, the schools remain uncompleted and inaccessible.” Akinlade, therefore promised to design five key articles and 35 key strategies which will put people at the centrepiece of government and transform their lives for the better. He also urged PDP members to close ranks, adding that all aggrieved members of the party should be prevailed upon to return. He said: “My aspiration to contest for the governor of Ogun State is propelled by a clear vision that government is for the people and not the other way round.

Clement James CALABAR

resident Goodluck Jonathan has been advised to recall all the recently sacked doctors in order to facilitate the resolution of the current impasse between the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) and the Federal government. This advice was given on Tuesday by a prominent lawyer, Utum Eteng during an interview in Calabar, Cross River State. He said the government should negotiate with the striking doctors instead of complicating matters by sacking them especially now that the Ebola virus has been imported into the country. Similarly, the former President of Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Dr. Prosper Igboeli, has advocated dialogue between the Federal Government

and striking doctors to resolve the current dispute between them. Igboeli made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigerian (NAN) in Abuja yesterday, saying both parties must have a rethink considering that the health system of the country was weak and vulnerable. “There is great need for the Federal Government to resume serious talks and dialogue with NMA to resolve the current impasse. The Nigerian health system is weak and vulnerable and sacking the doctors will greatly worsen the situation. “I will plead with both parties to rethink their stand. I have never and will never support any form of strike in the health sector. Dialogue and continued government engagement is the key to resolving conflicts,’’ Igboeli said.

MERCY VESSELS INTERNATIONAL MINISTRY This is to inform the general public that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Cap. C20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The Trustees are: 1 Achinonu Christopher Okechukwu 2 Odusami Wale Adebayo 3 Uzowulu Chidinma Nnennaya 4 Achinonu Chinenye Mabel AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. Signed: Barr. Maduka Okoli 8/10 ,Broad Street ,Lagos, 08033127357

PUBLIC NOTICE REBUILD THE ANCIENT FOUNDATION MINISTRY This is to inform the general public that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Cap. C20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The Trustees are: 1 Pst. David Oyedele Olatunji - General Overseer 2 Lawal Olajide Adelani 3 Toyin Oluwatomi Susan 4 Ruth Enebechi 5 Christinah Adeoye Sunday 6 Ogbonna Theddus AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1 To preach the gospel of our Jesus Christ. 2 To evangelise and win souls for Christ worldwide 3 To administer the ordinances of Christian faith 4 To help the needy, plant churches, conduct marriages in accordance with Christian constitution. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: TRUSTEES

WORLD | NEWS

NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Weapons flood South Sudan Osun: PDP wants security

illions of dollars of arms shipments have flooded South Sudan since civil war broke out eight months ago, weapons monitors said yesterday, with countries key to peace also involved in the supply. The shipments are prolonging a conflict in which thousands of people have been killed and more than 1.5 million have been forced from their homes, monitors said. Rights groups including Amnesty In-

ternational and Human Rights Watch have called for an arms embargo, while the UN Security Council has repeatedly warned of possible sanctions. “Since the start of the conflict there has been an influx of weapons into the country compared to the post-independence period” of the last three years, said Jonah Leff, who heads Conflict Armament Research, a group that tracks weapon flows. “In particular these flows have been more expensive, and

more sophisticated,” with shipments including anti-tank weapons, Leff told AFP. Weapons experts and Amnesty said they have confirmed shipments totalling $38 million (28 million euros) worth of weapons including antitank missiles, grenade launchers and assault rifles. The weapons were bought from China before fighting began, and delivered to land-locked and oil rich South Sudan via Kenya in June. However, more arms have been supplied.

agencies to caution APC Adeolu Adeyemo OSOGBO

sun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday appealed to security operatives to call the All Progressives Congress members in the state to order over incessant attacks on its members. The state Chairman of the party, Alhaji Ganiyu Olaoluwa, who made the appeal in a statement in Osogbo, said the quick intervention of the con-

cerned authorities was required to put an end to what he described as barbaric attacks on its members. Olaoluwa stated that virtually all his members have been attacked in all the length and breadth of the state and vowed to resist it if action was not taken on it with immediate effect. The PDP boss further argued that many of those attacked by the APC were now receiving treatment in various hospitals of the state, while a lot of money had

been spent to settle their hospital bills.  Olaoluwa added that “over 1000 of its members have been matcheted and are at different hospitals receiving treatment while thousands of them have fled their homes for fear of being attacked by the APC. He said the serial attacks on his members are becoming too much as many of them have been maimed, some sent out of their homes while thousands have had their shops vandalized in Ilesa.

Zoning can’t divide us in Akwa Ibom, says Umana Lateef Ibrahim ABUJA

A Weapons intercepted from a UN peacekeeping mission by South Sudan’s army are seen.

Remains of Malaysian MH17 victims to be flown home

ll 298 people on board died when Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 was shot down on July 17. The plane was heading to Kuala Lumpur from Amsterdam and was shot out of the sky over an area of eastern Ukraine controlled by pro-Russia separatists. The victims included 43 Malaysians and 195 Dutch nationals. With fighting between the reb-

els and Ukrainian forces ongoing near the crash site, victims’ remains were gathered and sent to the Netherlands for identification. Malaysian Defense Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said Tuesday that 28 Malaysian victims had been identified so far, including 15 passengers and 13 crew members. The remains of at least 15 Malaysians and a Dutch

national who was married to a Malaysian will arrive in Kuala Lumpur on Friday, Hishammuddin said at a news conference, adding that the exact number to arrive would be known later in the week. The government has declared Friday a national day of mourning. Hishammuddin said Malaysia would not be competing with the Netherlands in terms of how the bodies are received.

Egypt urges U.S. restraint over Missouri unrest

gypt ye s t e rd ay urged U.S. authorities to exercise restraint in dealing with racially charged demonstrations in Ferguson, Missouri - echoing language Washington used to caution Egypt as it cracked down on Islamist protesters last year. It is unusual for Egypt

to criticize such a major donor, and it was not immediately clear why the government would have taken such a step. Ties between Washington and Cairo were strained after Egyptian security forces killed hundreds of Muslim Brotherhood supporters following the army’s ousting of freely elected President

Mohamed Mursi in July 2013. Western allies have voiced concern about the democratic credentials of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, the army chief who toppled Mursi and went on to win elections. The United States has, however, continued to provide military and other support to Cairo.

former Secretary to the government of Akwa Ibom State and governorship aspirant in the state, Mr. Umana Okon Umana, has declared that acrimony and palpable bitterness over the choice of the next governor of the state in 2015 were needless. Rather, Umana said unity and understanding among Akwa Ibom people, both at home and

in the Diaspora, are what is required in the task of building the state with optimal exploration of the resources deposited in its territories The immediate past SSG of Akwa Ibom, in a statement yesterday, made particular reference to the issue of zoning of the governorship seat in the state, which he said should never be allowed to divide the state like never before. Umana explained that his interest in becoming

the next governor of Akwa Ibom was anchored on the need to assist in re-building the state giving the long years of experience he had acquired in public service. He pointed out that having served Akwa Ibom for more than two decades in different strategic departments, he was well familiar with the code of operations in government meant to further the development and growth of the state.

Oyo INEC assures eligible voters of adequate registration Sola Adeyemo IBADAN

NSPITE of some logistic challenges it faced in the past few days of the exercise, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Oyo State, yesterday assured that all registered voters will secure permanent voters cards, just as the Continuous Registration exercise for those without voters cards, as well as those just attain-

ing voting age, ends on Monday.  The assurance was given by the INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the state, Alhaji Nosiru Ayilara, in Ibadan, during a performance appraisal of the commission on the just-concluded distribution of permanent voters cards in the various polling units in the state.  Although he admitted that some registered voters could not secure the permanent voters cards

due to logistic problems, Ayilara stressed that INEC would now carry out its plans in two phases to ensure that all voters in the state secure permanent voters cards before the 2015 general election. He further explained that the commission would display voter’s list in all the affected units as a mark of assurance that permanent voter cards meant for them will eventually arrive for distribution.

Lamido’s presidential posters hit Kogi  Muhammad Bashir  LOKOJA

residential posters of Jigawa State Governor, Mallam Sule Lamido yesterday flooded Lokoja, the Kogi State capital. The governor’s Director of Press, Umar

Kyari in a telephone conversation confirmed the posters, saying the poster were pasted by friends and well wishers of the governor. “This morning, I received calls from different states over the same issue,” Kyari said. The posters,

which showed a smiling face of the Jigawa Governor with the PDP umbrella logo, was virtually posted on major streets of Lokoja and round about. The poster, carried an inscription “Sule Lamido for President 2015”.

RIO 2016 : Ogba, Alli woo sponsors for Brume, others Charles Ogundiya

orporate Nigeria has been advised to invest in budding Nigerian track and field talents like Ese Brume, Omezia Akerele, Divine Oduduru and others who are potential medallists at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. Speaking on how Team Ni-

geria track and field team can make podium appearance at the Rio Games, the President of the Athletic Federation of Nigeria, Solomon Ogba, and Technical Coordinator, Yusuf Alli, said investment in future talents would boost Nigeria’s fortunes in athletics. Brume won gold medals in the long jump at the just con-

cluded Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and Marrakech 2014 Africa Championships. Oduduru also won silver medal at 2014 IAAF World Junior Championships in Oregon, USA. Ogba said; “Blessing Okagbare is ranked top three in the world in the 100m, 200m and long jump, so she is a poten-

SPORT

AUTHORITATIVE VOICE IN GLOBAL SPORT

Ajibade Olusesan

arely two weeks to the Africa Nations Cup qualifying match against the Devils of DR Congo, the position on who takes charge of the Super Eagles in the match is still largely unclear. Although the Nigeria Football Federation, on Tuesday, released the list of players that will prosecute the match and the one against South Africa, the federation was silent on who drew up the list. NFF is still locked in negotiations with Coach Stephen Keshi on a new contract, in fact the federation did not even mention anything on the Keshi’s case in the communiqué issued at the end of its meeting yesterday, fuelling speculations that a caretaker coach might likely be appointed to lead out the team. However, it was unclear as at press time, whether the purported caretaker coach was the one that drew the list or the Technical Committee of the federation. Meanwhile, the English Premier League trio of Osaze Odemwingie, Brown Ideye and Victor Moses were excluded from the squad that will play against DR Congo and South Africa. But Elderson Echiejile, Nosa Igiebor and Chinedu Obasi made a return to the squad having missed the last FIFA World Cup. Villarreal striker, Ike Uche, was again overlooked. Ogenyi Onazi who suffered an injury during the World Cup has fully recovered and will play in the double-header, Michael Babatunde was not that lucky as he is yet to return to full fitness. Other regulars such as Vincent Enyeama, Emmanuel Emenike, Ahmed Musa, Kennthe Omeruo and Ambrose Efe all made the cut. Chigozie Agbim, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Kunle Odunlami, Gbolahan Salami and Christian Osaguona are the home based players that made the squad. Nigeria play DR Congo’s Red Devils restored to the race after their conquerors, Rwanda were found guilty of using an ineligible player – in Calabar on September 6, before flying for Cape Town to take on the Bafana Bafana on September 10.

WEDNesday, August 20, 2014

tial medallist. “We are calling on Corporate Nigeria to start investing in the training programme. They could have two years plan or so.” Alli, AFN coordinator, also said; “Ese as a junior athlete jumps 6.5m or 6.6m meters consistently. Jumping 6.8m or 6.9m could guarantee a medal in Rio, but if this young ath-

lete gets all the support she needs from now, I can guarantee that she will jump about 7.00m and win a medal in Rio. “Oduduru is also another athlete that could win a medal given the right support. He is on a sub-22 as a junior and so he has all it takes to make the 200m finals in Rio. The same applies to Akerele and others.’’

NEW TELEGRAPH

Did you know?

ADEKUNLE SALAMI, DepUTY Editor, SPORTS

Fernando Torres took four months to score his first Chelsea goal but it took Diego Costa 17 minutes to make his mark.

newtelegraphonline.com/sports

kunle.salami@newtelegraphonline.com

NFF silent on Eagles coach, invites 23

lMoses, Osaze, Ideye missing for AFCON qualifiers

THE FULL LIST GOALKEEPERS: Vincent Enyeama, Austin Ejide, Chigozie Agbim DEFENDERS: Elderson Echiejile, Juwon Oshaniwa, Efe Ambrose, Godfrey Oboabona, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Kenneth Omeruo, Kunle Odunlami MIDFIELDERS: Mikel Obi, Ogenyi Onazi, Ramon Azeez, Joel Obi, Nosa Igiebor, Omatsone Aluko FORWARDS: Ahmed Musa, Emmanuel Emenike, Chinedu Obasi, Uche Nwofor, Nnamdi Oduamadi, Gbolahan Salami, Christian Osaguona

Factional members kick as Maigari presides over NFF board meeting

} P 55

52 SPORT | EURO FOOTBALL

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Maigari’s return: Ogunjobi pays homage Comfort Chukwu Abuja

or mer Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Federation, Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi, on Tuesday said Maigari’s return to office has restored peace and dignity to the NFF. Ogunjobi, who paid a solidarity visit to the NFF President, Alhaji Aminu Maigari, said he came to welcome the president back from “sabbatical leave” and congratulated him for redeeming the image of Nigeria. The former Executive

Secretary, called on other members of the NFF to drop their grievances and come back home. “I have come to welcome our president back home, since he went on sabbatical leave, the house has not being in order. Now that he is back, he is putting his house in order again. “I am calling on all other stakeholders of football to drop their grievances and come back home so that we can work as one family, we don’t want a divided family, Maigari is back to take his rightful place and he is back for good.”

Thunder Balogun Foundation expands tourney

he Teslim ‘Thunder’ Balogun Foundation has concluded plans to expand the scope of its annual football championship to incorporate various male and female age group teams from across the country. The competition, which is in memory of former Nigeria international, Teslim ‘Thunder’ Balogun, and whose maiden edition took place in 2013, was previously limited to male U-17, U-15 and U-13 teams

but will now accommodate female teams. Making this disclosure at the end of the Foundation’s quarterly meeting, which had in attendance family members of the late football icon, was Rasheed Balogun, who stated that the foundation was ready set to expand its frontiers to all nooks and crannies of the country in order to discover and showcase players who could go on to represent the country at international competi-

Southwest Rugby League: Cowrie leads first phase Moyosore Makinde

he first phase of the Southwest League came to an end last weekend at the National Stadium, Lagos, with reigning champions, Cowrie comfortably on top of the log standings with 35 points, 10 ahead of second-placed Racing.

And the Lagos-based side ended the first phase in style with a 24-3 win over Gosar RFC in a game that saw Gosar, through their young centre, Sodiq Akanni, drawing first blood before Cowrie winger, Christian Ogar, scored a try to hand the reigning champions a 5-3 lead heading into the break.

Lionel Messi of Argentina controls the ball against Ogenyi Onazi of Nigeria

Factional members kick

•As Maigari presides over NFF board meeting Ifeanyi Ibeh and Comfort Chukwu Abuja

he crisis rocking the Nigeria Football Federation took yet another twist on Tuesday following a meeting convened by Aminu Maigari at the NFF secretariat, a decision which did not go down well with the Mike Umeh-led faction of the embattled football body. Maigari, who resumed office as President of the NFF on Monday after world football governing body, FIFA, called for his reinstatement, presided over Tuesday’s meeting which had in attendance eight other members of the NFF board. Besides Maigari, those in attendance, according to a communiqué released at the end of the meeting were Emeka Inyama, who signed the communiqué; Dilichukwu Onyedinma, Ahmad Muazu Kawu,

Olaleye Adepoju, Suleiman Yahaya-Kwande and NFF secretary general, Musa Amadu. Also in attendance were Chris Green and Yusuf ‘Fresh’Ahmed, who were both recently banned for six and 12 months respectively at the August 7 meeting of the NFF presided over by Umeh, who was conspicuously missing at the meeting. Also missing from Tuesday’s meeting were NFF executive committee members Deji Tinubu, Shehu Adamu, Suleimen Muazu and Felix Anyasi-Agwu, while unconfirmed reports indicated that YahayaKwande and Adepoju who, according to the communiqué, were present at Tuesday’s meeting were actually absent. And Umeh in an interview with New Telegraph revealed why he was absent from the meeting which, in his opinion, was attended

by people who had no business been there. “How could I have attended such a meeting? A meeting attended by people who had no business been there,” stressed Umeh. He added; “As far as I am concerned he (Maigari) cannot call for such a meeting, while the others (Green and Ahmed) have not been unbanned, so I couldn’t have attended such a meeting.” Adamu also said there was need to follow the same process of impeachment to bring back Maigari as the President of the football body. Anyasi-Agwu, who was also absent at Tuesday’s meeting, refused to give a reason for his absence when New Telegraph got in touch with him but was quick to add that he was on his way to the NFF secretariat. Regardless of the confusion, though, Tues-

day’s meeting did come up with some resolutions, most notably that the upcoming elections into the NFF will still hold as earlier scheduled on August 26 during the body’s General Assembly. They also agreed that in line with the August 14 letter from FIFA, which returned Maigari as President of the NFF, members of both the Electoral Committee and Electoral Appeals Committee, earlier removed by the Umeh-led executive committee, will be re-admitted at the August 26 Congress to continue with their electoral duties. They also reiterated that the August 26 Congress will be made up of the delegates to last year’s General Assembly in Warri, including those from the Plateau and Yobe State Football Associations, who were recently sacked by their respective state FA members.

Moses wants to rewards Stoke fans with goals Emmanuel Tobi

S Moses

uper Eagles winger, Victor Moses, has promised to reward Stoke City fans with goals, revealing that he turned down a number of opportunities to play for the Potters in the 2014/15 campaign.

“I’m very delighted to be here. I spoke to the manager before I came and it looks as though the club is moving in the right direction. “I had a few options to go to other clubs, but when I heard about Stoke I knew that they had a good

manager and I thought it would be good to come here and work under him. “He’s a great manager, and was a great footballer too, and for me to play under him will be a great achievement. “I just want to give 110percent to the club and

hopefully we will achieve what the club is looking to do this season,” he told Stoke Sentinel. “I didn’t play as many games as I would have loved at Liverpool last season but that’s football and I’ve got to put that aside,” he added.

Nigerian League Rendezvous

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Oshoala: Happy girl always

Oshoala

‘H

appyGirlAlways’ is the hashtag used most by youngster Asisat Oshoala on her Facebook profile and when you speak to her, it is not difficult to understand why. “It’s my life philosophy,” Oshoala said. “I consider myself a happy girl, because whatever situation I find myself in, I try to be happy. I like to see people smiling, to make my friends laugh and smile. That’s what I’m like!” Right now, the young Nigerian has even more reasons to showcase her infectious smile, because things are going exceptionally well for her in Canada. Nigeria are in the semi-finals of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2014 and Oshoala has played a pivotal part in that success. She has scored three goals in four games, the last two key to breaking down the morale of New Zealand in the early minutes of the teams’ quarter-final match and lighting up the path to the last four. “Starting the games full of energy forms part of our character as a team,” Oshoala explained. “That’s how we pressure our rivals – and if we score early it makes them lose heart.” AN ALL-TERRAIN PLAYER A few days ago, her team-mate Courtney Dike scored the fastest goal in the history of the tournament and against the Kiwis, Oshoala netted the second-fastest. So it looks like the strategy is working. “I’m not competing with Courtney, it just happened that way,” she laughed during her chat with FIFA.com. “Today (Sunday) I played as a striker, but at the end, when one of our defenders got injured, I played as a centre-back.” In fact, when she turns out for Nigeria’s senior side, it is usually as a goalscoring midfielder. So is it that flexibility that has seen her nicknamed ‘Seedorf ’? “I am called that because of my playing style and also my strength,” she said. MORE THAN A SEMI-FINAL Oshoala undoubtedly transmits happiness to others around her, but she turned serious for a moment when the semi-final against Korea was mentioned. “Two years ago, in Japan, we also got to the semifinals, but we lost 2-0 to USA,” she recalled, before adding with determination. “I’m not thinking about losing another semi-final. We are going to give it all to get the victory.” Oshoala loves telling her family and friends about her experiences and trips around the world. “When I return home after being with the national team in a tournament, I always have lots of things to tell my people,” she said. And now, this happy girl hopes to return home telling tales of how she became a world champion at Canada 2014.

with charles Ogundiya

charlesog2001@yahoo.com,

08098042287

Motivation boosts 3SC’s promotion drive S hooting Stars of Ibadan, coutinued their battle for promotion with an away point from Gateway FC of Abeokuta to maintain their top position on the log. Investigations by League Rendezvous revealed that motivation by the management has been key to the success of the team so far. For example, General Manager, Rasheed Balogun, dangled N1.8m before the players at the half time of the game, promising all the 18 players the sum of N100,000 each if they can get a point from the game. 3SC were leading 2-1 as at the time of the promise by Balogun and the team went on to end

the match in a 2-2 draw. Speaking with our correspondent, the Media Officer of the club, Jubril Arowolo, said the cash promise motivated the players to give their all in the game. “When the GM came to address the players at half time, he promised to give them N100,000 each if they can end the game without losing, and the players responded by giving their all. “Similar situation happened during the game against Prime of Abeokuta where the players were rewarded with a win bonus despite drawing the game away from home. The GM also dashed the players N10,000 each from his pocket to motivate them,” he said.

3SC Rasheed Balogun adressing the players at half time of the game against Gateway

With six matches left, 3SC are currently on top of the NNL Group B table with 41 points followed by Gabros FC with 38 points and MFM in the third position after accruing 36 points from 24 matches. The top two from the group will be promoted to the premier league alongside the other top two in Group A at the end of the season.

Top scorers in Tornadoes keep hope alive tough battle Dan Atori

he battle to emerge the top scorer of the 2013/2014 Nigeria Professional Football League continues with Bayelsa United striker, Peter Ebimobowei, moving joint top with Osaguona Ighodaro of Rangers International of Enugu. The two players are currently on 13 goals after playing 24 matches; following closely is Kano Pillars’ midfielder, Rabiu Ali with 11 goals. While speaking with League Rendezvous, Ebimobowei says he is ready to become the top scorer of the league at the end of the season. “At the inception, I set a target for myself and I am happy I am meeting my target. All my goals are clean goals without a single penalty. By God’s grace I will emerge top scorer at the end of the season while also breaking the long standing record of 20 goals,” he said. Former Kaduna United striker, Jude Aneke, who is now with Kazakhstan’s Spartak Semey, set a new record in 2012 after scoring 20 goals. Ebimobowei however says while trying to set a new goal record, he will try his best to help his club, Bayelsa United escape relegation at the end of the season.

Minna

igeria National League side, Niger Tornadoes, continue their quest for promotion with a 2-0 victory against another promotion hopeful, Kwara United, over the weekend in a week 24 match. While commending the performance of his players, Godwin Uwua also appreciated the management for the overwhelming support the team was getting from the teeming supporters at the stadium.

NNL LEAGUE TOP THREE

GROUP A Pts

Team

1. Wikki

+18 44

2. Kwara

+19 40

3. M’ Jets 24

GROUP B Pts

Team

1. 3SC

+13 41

2. Gabros 24

3. MFM

“I am dedicating the game to the players and the management of the club as well as the supporters for the massive support and encouragement the team received that propelled us to victory,” he said. He however assured that the team would continue to maintain the current tempo and ensure that it records good results in its remaining fixtures and get the promotion it deserved. The former assistant Super Eagles Coach said that he was now focusing on the upcoming away match against Sokoto United.

Dada Bitrus of Rangers (right) challenges Alaba Johnson of Wikki Tourists during a league match

SPORT

Sport

BUSINESS

FOCUS ON CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP

with Emmanuel Tobi emmanuel.tobi@newtelegraphonline.com

0805 400 5669

ootball fans were thrilled by SuperSport over the weekend as the Premier League season commenced with fun and great aplomb at a live studio audience during the opening match in Victoria Island, Lagos. Speaking at the event, General Manager Marketing, MultiChoice Nigeria, Martin Mabutho said MultiChoice and SuperSport wanted soccer fans to feel the passion of the game, which was why a live studio experience

EPL: SuperSport promises quality live HD Coverage

was created for the opening games of the Premier League. Mabutho promised that MultiChoice through DStv and GOtv will bring quality live high definition coverage of games in the Premier

…As Glo renews broadcast sponsorship

elecommunication giant, Globacom, has reinstated its commitment to sports by fuelling the passion of Nigerians for the English Premier League as it renewed its sponsorship of live broadcast of EPL matches on Supersports for the 2014/2015 league season which kicked off on Saturday. Globacom in a statement released in Lagos over the weekend said with its sponsorship of live broadcast of EPL matches, football fans were assured of top quality EPL matches on Supers-

port channels. The Globacom sponsorship of live broadcast of EPL matches on frontline pay TV, DStv started from the 2013/2014 League season. The sponsorship package includes EPL live matches, EPL match reviews, EPL Preview, Premier League World and exposure of Globacom’s brand messages during the broadcast. The company restated its commitment to total development of the round leather game in Nigeria.

League to its subscribers. “We want our subscribers to enjoy quality football this season and in the tradition they are used to. The games will be brought to them in excellent quality and sound, as well as in HD.” he

remarked. He also thanked broadcast sponsors of the Barclay’s Premier League; Guinness Nigeria PLC, Globacom, Samsung, Honeywell and Wakanow, calling them partners in the love of football, for their sup-

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

port of the game, which is arguably the world’s most watched sport. The live audience at the MultiChoice Premier League kick off saw the SuperSport panel of analysts offer projections about what to expect this season, as well as highlights to look forward to. The analysts were, Charles Anazodo, Victor Ikpeba, Segun Agbede and Chisom Mbonu.

Fans during SuperSport live screening of the EPL in Lagos at the weekend.

FIFA U -20 WOMEN WORLD CUP

Falconets coach ready for North Koreans Ifeanyi Ibeh

oach of Nigeria’s Falconets, Peter Dedevbo, has declared his side’s readiness to take on their North Korean counterparts on Wednesday when both sides get to clash in the semi-finals of the on-going FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. Falconets duo of Asisat Oshoala and Uchechi Sunday both scored twice to send Nigeria into the semi-finals at the expense of New Zealand with a 4-1 win in wet conditions in Moncton. Nigeria started quickly, with Oshoala scoring just 31 seconds into the game, for the second-fastest goal at the U-20 Women’s World Cup, a goal that is only bested by team-mate Courtney Dike’s strike 18 seconds into Nigeria’s second group stage game against the South Koreans. Oshoala doubled Nigeria’s lead 11

SEMIFINAL FIXTURES (Wed-Thurs) Korea DPR v Nigeria 9pm Germany v France 12am

minutes later before Sunday, six minutes from time and from six yards out, blasted home from a corner kick to extend Nigeria’s lead to 3-0. New Zealand pulled a goal back in the 89th minute, before Sunday scored a beautiful solo effort in added time to make it 4-1. And having broken his personal jinx of never getting past the quarterfinals at a FIFA World Cup, having failed to do that on two previous occasions with Nigeria’s U-17 women’s team, Dedevbo is optimistic ahead of Wednesday’s game in Moncton. “I took this team when they were U17s in 2010, and at the U-17 World Cups in 2010 and 2012, we lost in the quarter-finals. Now that jinx is broken. We’ve made it to the semi-finals,” said an excited Dedevbo, who celebrated his side’s victory by rolling across the Moncton Stadium pitch. “I was not scared before the game because I know that, with the quality we have, this team would qualify. Scoring early changes the character of the team, it’s very good for the confidence, and then you play better and in a more relaxed way.

Dike

I’m very satisfied with what we achieved, and now I’m ready for North Korea. I know their team, I know their coach, and I want to beat them at all costs. At the 2010 tournament, in Trinidad and Tobago, Nigeria defeated North Korea 3-2 in a pulsating Group A encounter before going on to lose in the quarterfinals to South Korea, who went on to win the tournament. Two years later, in Azerbaijan, Nigeria failed to get past the quarterfinals, losing after a penalty shootout to eventual winners France, who defeated the North Koreans in the final.

Nigeria too fast, says New Zealand coach Ifeanyi Ibeh

ead coach of New Zealand, Aaron McFarland, in the aftermath of his team’s 4-1 loss to Nigeria, has stated that his side was no match for the Falconets who, in his opinion, were much faster and stronger than his players. “It was a big challenge because we don’t often get to play against teams with the quality Nigeria possess,” he said. “We knew we were the underdogs, and with the pace and the physicality they brought to the game, we couldn’t compete at their level,” added the New Zealander, whose cause wasn’t helped by the early goal his girls let in against the Falconets.

MOMENT 55

Sanctity of Truth

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Former Abia State Governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, recently hosted the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Andrew Pocock, and the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. James Entwistle in Abuja

Former Abia State Governor, Dr. Uzor Orji Kalu (left) and British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Andrew Pocock

L-R: Kalu; Pocock; his wife, Julie; daughter of the former governor, Miss Ezinne Orji Kalu and American Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle

Kalu (left) and Entwistle

L-R: Kalu, Julie and Pocock

L-R: Kalu, Pocock, Julie, Ezinne and Entwistle

L-R: Kalu, Pocock, Julie and Entwistle

PHOTOs: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN

World Record

On Marble

We must believe that we are gifted for something, and that this thing, at whatever cost, must be attained.

– Marie Curie

Sanctity of Truth w w w. new tel eg rap ho nl i ne. co m

Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon and the truth – Buddha WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2014

The smallest waist belongs to Cathie Jung (USA, b. 1937), who stands at 1.72 m (5 ft 8 in) and has a corseted waist measuring 38.1 cm (15 in). Un-corseted, it measures 53.34 cm (21 in).

N150

We live in an unequal world (1)

or a very long time, the rich have known to some extent how the poor around the world live. What’s new in today’s world is that the best-kept secret from the poor, namely, how the rich live, is now out. Through the village television, the Internet and hand-held instruments, which a rapidly increasing number of the poor possess, life-styles of the rich and the middle class -- about which they earlier had only foggy ideas -- are transmitted in full colour to their homes every day. And that has made all the difference. The political turbulence we’re seeing all around the world has varied proximate causes, but a lot of it is fundamentally rooted in this one new feature of today’s world. The question that nearly everyone who lives in the developing world is asking themselves is how can they and their children have the economic opportunity that so many others in the world enjoy? Last year, when I travelled with President Evo Morales to a Bolivian village 14,000 feet above sea level, to play soccer of all things, villagers snapped pictures on their smart phones of our arrival. When I visited a neighborhood in Uttar Pradesh, the state in India with the highest number of poor people, I found Indians watching Korean soap operas on their smart phones. It’s not a great mystery why everyone wants more opportunity for themselves and especially for their children. We live in an unequal world. The gaps between the rich and poor are as obvious here in Washington, D.C., as they are in any capital. Yet, those excluded from economic progress remain largely invisible to many of us in the rich world. In the words of Pope Francis, and I quote, “That homeless people freeze to death on the street is not news. But a drop … in the stock market is a tragedy.” While we in the rich world may be blind to the suffering of the poor, the poor throughout the world are very much aware of how the rich live. And they have shown they are willing to take action. We must not remain voluntarily blind to the impact of economic choices on the poor and vulnerable – not only because of the moral argument of treating your neighbor with dignity but also because of the economic argument that when growth includes women, young people, and the poor, we all benefit. Inequalities hurt everyone. Women’s low economic participation creates income losses of 27 percent in the Middle East and North Africa. Inclusive growth, in

Guest Columnist Jim Yong Kim

contrast, builds a stronger, more robust social contract between people and their government – and builds stronger economies. If we raised women’s employment to the levels of men, for instance, average income would rise by 19 percent in South Asia and 14 percent in Latin America. One year ago, the Governors of the World Bank Group endorsed two new goals – first, that we will commit our energies to end extreme poverty by 2030. People in extreme poverty live on less than a dollar and a quarter a day – less than the coins that many of us empty from our pockets each night. And yet more than a billion people in middle-income and poor countries today survive on less than that. The second goal endorsed by our Governors is that we will work to ensure that the benefits of prosperity are shared by the bottom 40 percent of people in developing countries. But we know, that even if countries grow at the same rates as over the past 20 years, if the income distribution remains the same, world poverty will fall to only 7.7 percent in 2030 – from 17.7 percent globally in 2010.* In the past 20 years, the world was able to lift roughly 35 million people out of extreme poverty each year on average. But if we are going to reach our goal of ending extreme poverty by 2030, we need to help 50 million people a year raise themselves out of poverty. We know that the fundamental problems of the world today affect not millions, but billions of us. Nearly 2 billion people lack access to energy. An estimated two-and-a-half billion people lack access to basic financial services. And all of us -- all 7 billion of us -- face an impending disaster from climate change if we do not act today with a plan equal to the challenge. Martin Luther King once said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” Today we must ask ourselves whether we, like Dr. King did in his life, are doing all we can to forcefully bend the arc of history toward justice, toward helping lift more than a billion people out of the devastation of extreme poverty. I am now 21 months into my tenure as president of the World Bank Group and I ask myself this ques-

Jim Yong Kim, World Bank President

tion every day. Just three months after I started, we defined ourselves as a “Solutions Bank” that will marshal our vast reserves of evidence and experiential knowledge and apply them to local problems. A year into my job, the Board endorsed our twin goals, and just six months ago, the Board endorsed our strategy, aligning our operations to meet the goals. Since then, we have made substantial changes, and we are well on our way to becoming the Solutions Bank we envisioned to help our clients tackle the toughest challenges to meet the twin goals. You know, I feel fortunate that I work in an institution that has so much intellectual depth – nearly 1,000 economists and 2,000 PhDs …and those PhDs will have at least 4,000 points of view on any given issue. In my time at the World Bank Group, you can imagine that I’ve had no shortage of pointed advice from my staff. Their passion and insight remind me on a daily basis that our people care deeply about their mission. We recently took a survey of staff and one result was especially encouraging: 90 percent said they were proud to work at the World Bank Group. Now our responsibility is to build an institution that takes all that experience, talent and knowledge and makes it user friendly to any country or company that needs it.

We need to work differently in order to reflect one of the indisputable new realities in the world -- governments and companies can turn to many places for financing and knowledge. Our comparative advantage has to be so clear that countries, companies, and other partners will seek us out for the best on-the-ground experience and advice available anywhere. We now will work more cohesively across our institution -- so that staff in the Bank who work in the public sector, staff in IFC, who work in the private sector, and staff in MIGA, who provide risk insurance and guarantees, will bring their collective experience together to better serve our clients. We’ve also created what we call “global practices,” which will become communities of experts in 14 areas, such as water, health, finance, agriculture, and energy. In the next few days, we’ll be announcing most of the heads of these practices. Imagine what it would be like if I were naming you as the senior director of our water practice. You would be responsible for designing investments in water and sanitation so that girls, for example, aren’t walking miles every morning to the nearest river for cooking and cleaning instead of going to school. Soon, you would have around 200 water experts on your team. You and your management team would look across our water projects in the world and deploy these experts to Bangladesh, Peru, China, or Angola, for instance, making choices to move holders of particular knowledge to specific countries to address a local problem.

OMOBABA

I WILL REVEAL SOME SECRETS AFTER 2015 GENERAL ELECTION – Oba Akiolu

– Kabiyesi, say it now when the heat is on!

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