Binder1friday,march7,2014

Sanctity of Truth Facebook.com/newtelegraph

Friday, March 7, 2014 Vol. 1 No. 17

twitter.com/newtelegraph1

www.newtelegraphonline.com

N150

Nigeria’s most authoritative newspaper in politics and business

Another chemical emission: 13 Lagos pupils on danger list Auditor Mojeed Alabi, Camilus Nnaji and Muritala Ayinla

T

hirteen pupils of Ogba Junior Grammar School, Ogba, Lagos

collapsed yesterday after inhaling gaseous substance allegedly emitted from a photographic laboratory within the popular Ogba Shopping Arcade.

The pupils, who were

first rushed to a private hospital, Lifegate Specialist Hospital, Ogba, were later transferred to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja.

They are said to be on danger list at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital.

The incident, the second in six months, prompted the state government to

General: Why my office can’t audit NNPC

shut the school.

Twenty-five pupils had last year collapsed after inhaling gaseous emissions from a photography laboratory in the complex

Page } 3

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

2015 elections

Jonathan, North’s feud may divide Nigeria -Abdulsalami

lTambuwal: Expect surprises lJonathan, Amaechi trade words on bad governance Philip Nyam and Johnchuks Onuanyim

TENSION

Ex-Head of State believes the only way 2015 will be peaceful is for leaders to be patriotic

Abuja

F PDP, a party of lawlessness, says APC

ormer Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, yesterday,

expressed fears over the 2015 elections, saying the democratic process would determine Nigeria’s continued existence.

He noted that the insistence of the North on

reclaiming the presidency in 2015 and the second term ambition of President Goodluck Jonathan portend danger to the nation’s democracy.

This is just as the

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, declared that the 2015 general elections would spring a lot of surprises.

Abubakar and Tam-

buwal spoke yesterday in Abuja at a conference organised by the Peoples Media Limited, publishers of Peoples Daily newsCONTINUED ON PAGE 3

FG releases list of National Conference delegates

Page } 8

lOlisa Metuh: APC manifesto destructive RIVALRY

Again, opposition APC and the ruling PDP engage in verbal war Julius Toba and Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

T

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, received knocks from its

INSIDE

News. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Metro . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Politics . . . . . . . . . . . .

Opinions. . . . . . . . . . .

Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Law. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Entertainment. . . . . .

Business . . . . . . . . . . .

Sport. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2 12 13 20 21 23 25 37 51

arch rival, the All Progressives Congress (APC) over what the party called PDP’s “15 years of failure in the saddle of power in the country.”

The party, at its 2014 National Summit held in Abuja, also expressed readiness to take over power from the PDP through the ballot boxes in 2015.

APC warned that if

Lagos

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 Thunder Storm O O

31 | 27 For subscription, advert and story tips, please call +234 (1)221 9496, 08033392655, 08023010222

L-R: Chairman, Bulet International, Malam Ismaila Isa; Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal; and former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, during the second annual conference on “Nigeria: The 2015 Question” organised by Peoples Media Limited in Abuja... yesterday.

AT A GLANCE

NEWS

POLITICS

BUSINESS

ENTERTAINMENT

NPC seeks N17bn to conduct 2016 census Page 5

I‘ll run for Ondo governorship again, says Ajasin’s daughter Page 17

Subscriber group sues NCC over fine against operators Page 37

Music stars shine at Lagos Stock Exchange Page 25

2

NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Another chemical emission: 13 Lagos pupils on danger list CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

near the school premises.

The latest incident happened about noon yesterday and affected the pupils accommodated in the junior school II classes, when suddenly about eight students were found rolling on the ground and convulsing.

The development led to the immediate closure of the school by the Chair-

man of Ojodu Local Council Development Authority (LCDA), Mr. Olumide Oloro, who told New Telegraph that the measure was a precautionary step to avert further crisis, pending the determination of the source of the emission.

According to Oloro, immediately he was briefed of the development, he rushed to the scene and

discovered that the victims had been rushed to a nearby private hospital- Lifegate Specialist Hospital, and that he immediately alerted all the emergency units of the state government to attend to the situation and avoid escalation.

“Meanwhile, immediately we arrived, we were told eight pupils had been rushed to the hospital

Adefisayo...yesterday

but as we were standing, waiting for the emergency services officials, we discovered that two of the pupils who were already on their way home suddenly collapsed. Thank God we had the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) team on ground and they immediately moved the pupils to the Lagos State University Teaching Hos-

photo: Muritala Ayinla

pital (LASUTH) in Ikeja for adequate and comprehensive attention,” Oloro told New Telegraph.

The Public Relations Officer of LASUTH, Mr. Dele Johnson, who confirmed the hospital received the pupils, directed New Telegraph to the Head of the Emergency Unit where the pupils were being attended to.

But the head, simply identified as Dr. Taiwo, refused to comment but said the students were responding to treatment.

Parents of the students on admission including mother of Adebiyi Taiwo and father of Karimo Akiode, who said they rushed to the school and, thereafter, to the hospital, said nobody was giving them any information except that their children were responding to treatment.

However, as soon as the school was suddenly closed, the management of the local government area, LASEMA, the police and some members of the community traced the emission to the shopping complex and asked the occupants of the building to

PDP, a party of lawlessness, says APC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

President Goodluck Jonathan is re-elected in 2015, he would become a “civilian dictator.”

Speaker after speaker, who addressed the APC gathering where its code of ethics was unanimously endorsed, identified corruption as the major bane of the PDP-led government under Jonathan.

They also lamented unstable power supply, insecurity in the North-East, infrastructural decay and poverty as key areas where Jonathan’s government and PDP had failed.

One of those who spoke at the event was former Vice President Atiku Abubakar who said if Jonathan was re-elected into office in 2015, he would become a civilian dictator.

According to the former vice president, “even though I was in the ruling party, but I am a committed advocate of two-party system. We tried all the

time to come together but it was sabotaged by the ruling party (PDP). If Senegal can do it, Nigeria can do it.

If PDP continues beyond 2015, we will have a civilian dictator.”

Also, Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, who opened political discussions at the event, said the Code of Ethics of APC was an attempt to divert from the business-asusual style of PDP in the last 15 years.

Also, Governor Murtala Nyako of Adamawa State said “PDP has developed total impunity for law of the land. The party stands for everything that is lawless.”

“We in Adamawa cannot work together with these forces of evil. It has been observed that leaders of PDP are above the law and with our brooms, we shall sweep away all their acts of impunity. We must return respect to Nigerians and Nigeria in in-

ternational community,” Nyako declared.

On his part, Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State said APC would give Nigerians rule of law, “but not the kind that is now being given by PDP. Not the type where the president threatens state governors like me.”

“Not the type where the Minister of Finance has told the officials of World Bank not to approve any project in Rivers State so that water-borne disease can kill the people. That’s not a party.”

For Adams Oshiomole of Edo State, the time has come for a change. He condemned various statistics being reeled out by PDP on the economy.

He said: “We are today fed with statistics that Nigeria is the fastest growing economy in the world. Yet, it is unfortunate that they agree that poverty is growing so fast on a daily basis.

“Economy is not a

rocket science, it is simple arithmetic which can be seen on the lives of individuals. Jobs cannot be created by miracles; there are no miracles in the life of nations.”

Gover nor Rabiu Kwankaso of Kano State said APC is ready in the state to floor PDP having registered about 2.3 million voters in last month’s registration.

National Leaders of APC like Chief Audu Ogbeh lamented that under the PDP government, N16 billion was spent in the importation of tomatoes and toothpicks in 2013 alone.

Senator Ali Modu Sherrif, former governor of Borno State, reassured that APC will deliver 99 per cent of votes from the North-East.

But he warned that APC might end up in the way of PDP if its leaders embarked on dictatorship.

Some of the party chieftains at the event included

Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), Senator Bola Tinubu, Chief Bisi Akande, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, Prince Tony Momoh, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Chief Tom Ikimi, Alhaji Kawu Baraje, Ambassador Yahaya Kwande, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Senator Bukola Saraki, Senator Danjuma Goje, Bayero Nafada, Prof Pat Utomi, Senator George Akume, Senator Chris Ngige, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, Hon. Suleiman Kawu, Hon. Dakuku Peterside and others.

According to the APC Road Map tagged “A new Party for a New Nigeria”, job creation, fight against corruption, free relevant quality education, restoration of Nigerian Agriculture and Housing Plan will be its priority attention.

APC also added that healthcare plan for children and adults, social welfare plan for the less advantaged, building of C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 4

vacate immediately.

The complex, which accommodates two branches of a new generation bank, is also occupied by BizCircuit Photo Lab, the company alleged to be releasing the gaseous emission, as the emergency services management decided to carry out proper investigation.

LASEMA General Manager, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, said: “We want to carry out gas analysis of this place, and the environmental risk analysis too. That is why we are appealing to occupants of this place to vacate so that we can do all that we need to do. The DPO is here, the Chairman of the LCDA is here, we cannot think retrospectively now and we have to address the urgent and current situation. We have brought in sophisticated equipment to do that and the results will be communicated to the appropriate quarters soon”.

Some of the teachers, who spoke to New Telegraph on condition of anonymity, said it was the C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 4

TODAY’S WEATHER FORECAST PORT HARCOURT

31o 22o Storm

ABUJA

38o 24o Partial Cloudy

KANO

38o 14o Sunny

ENUGU

36o 24o Partially Cloudy

IBADAN

32o 23o Storm

CALABAR

33o 23o Storm

MAIDUGURI

41o 21o Partially Cloudy

ONITSHA

34o 24o Rain Storm

NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

3

Why my office can’t audit NNPC, by Auditor-General CONTROVERSY Section 85 (2) of the Constitution is preventing AuditorGeneral from auditing any agency of government Chukwu David Abuja

T

he Auditor-General of the Federation, Mr. Samuel Ukura, yesterday said that his office has no constitutional powers to carry out a forensic audit of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) or audit any other agency of government.

Ukura stated this while briefing the Senate Committee on Finance, which is currently investigating the alleged unremitted $20 billion to the Federation Account by the NNPC. The Auditor-General told the legislators that his office was constrained by Section 85(2) of the Constitution from auditing any agency of government, explaining that he could only do periodic checks of NNPC and other institutions.

This was even as the NNPC failed to clearly give account of $2.4 billion it claimed to have paid as third party financing, re-

sulting in the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Ahmed Makarafi, asking the Corporation to go back, reconcile and re-present its records to the Committee.

The Makarfi-led Finance Committee had asked the Auditor-General to explain the link between his routine checks in the NNPC and the committee’s investigation.

The Committee specifically requested Ukura to furnish it with information on whether the periodic check his office was doing in the NNPC had to do with the investigation it is currently carrying out.

But Ukura, citing Section 85 of the Constitution, told the committee that his office lacked the constitutional power to audit the accounts of the NNPC but that he had begun a routine check on the corporation as provided for in the constitution.

“We want you to, in writing, confirm to us what you are checking in the NNPC accounts. Does it cover what we are looking for?

We will only make further directives on this matter when you write letter to us to tell us whether or not what you are doing covered our own area of investigation,” Makarfi said.

Again, following the confusion generated by its

earlier memo to the committee regarding the $2.4 billion payment for third party financing, the NNPC, with the permission of the Committee, withdrew the memo to present a fresh one that might eliminate the discrepancies noticed in the figures presented.

Group Managing Director of NNPC, Andrew Yakubu, said: “In view of the confusion, there is need to further clarify and align figures. So, we will withdraw the submission and

present it again.”

The committee had pointed out that figures in the memo as read out during yesterday’s hearing were confusing.

Moreover, in her submission to the committee at the investigative hearing, Acting Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mrs. Sarah Alade, stressed that the apex bank would ensure that the law was respected as it pertains to what fraction of the revenue generated by the

NNPC should be remitted to the federation account.

Makarfi had asked the CBN boss to make the definite position of the apex bank known on what percentage of the generated funds of the NNPC should go to the Federation account.

“Look, the committee expects the CBN to provide details on the percentage that ought to be paid to the federation account by the NNPC. We should try to be as specific as possible

if we are saying something.

If you are not in a position to know, then it is wrong to assume,” the politician stated.

Also yesterday, the committee announced the conclusion of its public sittings, even as it directed agencies that still had some documents to submit to it to do so without further delay, noting that the committee would soon commence private sittings to analyse all submissions that it had received.

L-R: Chairman, All Progressives Congress, Chief Bisi Akande; former Head of State, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd); former Lagos State Governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and APC leader, Ogbonnaya Onu during the APC’s National Summit in Abuja... yesterday.

PHOTO: Timothy Ikuomenisan

N39.1bn

The total import value of plates, sheets, film, foil and other printed flexible pack of Nigeria in the second quarter of 2013.

Source: National Bureau of Statistics

174.5m

The total population of Nigeria (2012 est.).

Source: Economist.com

10,991

The total population of Tuvalu (the world’s second smallest country).

Source: worldfactsandfigures.com

Abdulsalami: We must avoid a repeat of 2011 violence CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

papers.

But the representatives of President Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Rotimi Amaechi used the event to trade words on poor governance in the country.

The former Head State declared that the 2015 elections is a ‘watershed moment” in Nigeria’s history and unless Nigerians handled it with utmost seriousness and patriotism, a repeat of the 2011 violence may occur.

He said: “As political animals that we are, nothing seems to have gripped our imagination of Nigerians as the issue of the coming 2015 general elections which in my view is a watershed moment in the history of our dear country.

“The way we are able to handle this very important event will largely determine how successful we will be in our efforts at remaining a united, indivisible and stable country.

“Already, the fault lines are apparent and politicians are ready to exploit them to the fullest to achieve their sometimes not so noble objectives.

“The 2015 elections are, among other things, expected to determine where power will reside in the next four years.

The North is determined to have it back and its leaders are pulling all the strings to see that that happens.

“On the other hand, the body language of the incumbent president strongly suggests he wants another term in office.

Distinguished guests, the unfolding scenario may portend danger to our nation if Nigerians from all parts of the country do not close ranks and put the interest of the nation first.”

The former leader, who was the chairman of the occasion, said nothing has gripped the imagination of Nigerians as the 2015 elections, adding that “the fault lines are apparent and politicians are ready to exploit them to the fullest to achieve their sometimes not so noble objectives.”

Speaking on the topic, “Nigeria: the 2015 question”, Abubakar said he was confident that Nigerians can collectively rise above the challenge of the impending danger to deliver a credible elections.

He said for this to be achieved, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has a key role to play in ensuring free and fair elections that express the will of the people.

According to him, “as an international elections observer, I have monitored polls in less endowed countries that have managed to organise more credible elections and I am always left with the sad feeling that with all our resources, we are unable to set an example for the rest of the world.”

In his address, Tambuwal, who was guest of honour at the event, said the 2015 elections have made the challenge of Nigeria’s federal system more difficult as tribalism and nepotism have

unfortunately taken the centre stage.

Tambuwal expressed strong belief in the unity of the country, saying “I believe in the unity of this country. I believe in our ability to triumph over our challenges. I believe in our power to see beyond our subjective experiences to a more objective future. I believe that 2015 will bring us good surprises.”

He said the onus lies with the incumbent government to conduct a free and fair poll to usher in peace in the country.

“Yes, 2015 is indeed pregnant. But it is in our hands if we want it to deliver a bright future or a foetus of aborted hopes and dreams.

“The responsibility is of course first on those

who hold power currently and the election umpire that we now have. If they decide to conduct fair and free elections, if the scales are not rigged, then the hope that 2015 will usher in a more peaceful and more progressive year is not in doubt”.

He, however, submitted that Nigerians have an opportunity to make 2015 a turning point if only the political parties would enthrone internal democracy and conduct free and fair primaries to allow aspirants test their popularity.

According to the speaker, “We hold it in our hands to make 2015 a turning point in our politics and our nation.

But first, the political parties must enthrone a CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

4

NEWS

REVENUE Two federal institutions in Ondo State are resisting attempts by the state government to overtax them.

Babatope Okeowo Akure

O

ndo State Government has threatened to shut down the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Ondo Govt, FUTA, Adeyemi College bicker over N2.4bn taxes and the Adeyemi College of Education (ACE), Ondo over the non-remittance of their taxes into the state coffer.

As a prelude to this, the state government has directed the Board of Internal Revenue to place notice of non-compliance

on the gate of the institutions.

The two federal institutions were said to be owing the state N2.4 billion with FUTA said to be owing about N2 billion, and Adeyemi College owing N400 million.

The managements of

the institution are yet to formally respond.

Governor Olusegun Mimiko had on Wednesday, while signing the 2014 appropriation bill into law, lamented the dwindling fund from the federation account, saying the government would have to

cushion its earning with Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

Mimiko had said many business premises would be closed down over nonpayment of taxes to the coffers of the state government.

But when reporters visited Adeyemi College, lecturers and some passersby besieged the school gate reading the notice.

The notice reads: “Take notice that the owner/operators the company/business premises have failed to comply with their tax obligation under the relevant federal and state laws. Any officer or agent involved in this contravention is punishable by fine

and/ or imprisonment under section of the Personal Income Tax Act 1993 as amended by order of the Ondo State Board of Internal Revenue (OSBIR)”.

A lecturer of ACE, who spoke under anonymity, lamented over the recent increase of tax by the state government.

He wondered why such huge amount of money will be placed on the institution.

The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of ACE, Mr Moses Akinfolarin, when contacted on phone, said he could not speak on the matter and referred reporters to the Registrar or Provost of the school for comments.

Another chemical emission: 13 Lagos pupils on danger list CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 L-R: Chairman of the occasion, Senator Ike Nwachukwu; wife of the author, Dr. Nnenna Orji; author, Prof. Herbert Orji and Chief Presenter/ former Group Managing Director, Access Bank, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, at the presentation of a book entitled, ‘Platinum Essays in the Philosophy of Applied Economics of Development’ in Lagos …yesterday

PDP, a party of lawlessness, says APC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

roads, power and infrastructure, better management of national resources, strengthening of peace and foreign policy will be brought to doorsteps of ordinary Nigerians if voted to office in 2015.

But, the PDP said the manifesto, which the APC released, lacks character and depth.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, at a press conference, said the roadmap is capable of leading Nigeria to anarchy and is anti-democratic.

Metuh said the manifesto, which ranked security of lives and property low and gave no clue as to its preparedness to tackle terrorism, was a tacit acknowledgment that the APC may be benefiting from the mayhem and knows more than meets the eyes about the spate of terror attacks in the country.

“When last year in its first official outing, the leaders of the APC said

terrorism in Nigeria would disappear within 100 days of APC leadership, Nigerians did ask if they knew the characters in crime and their sponsors. APC gave silence as an answer while Nigerians kept wondering. Today, the party has released its manifesto with loud silence on the matter so that Nigerians would not raise further questions on the face behind the terrorism mask,” the PDP spokesman noted.

He said the APC has no credible recipe for job creation nor has it shown the strength of character to fight corruption more than the PDP does at the moment.

“The PDP created anticorruption agencies- the ICPC, the EFCC and established the Freedom of Information Act to further give teeth to the war on graft. The PDP-led federal government has also shown no preferences in its battle on corruption as senior party leaders as well as relations have at

one time or another been made to face the law on charges of corruption.”

“On the contrary, the leaders of the APC are the grandpatrons of corruption as could be seen from the South-West APC states where a kilometre of road is awarded at N1 billion in a topography that compares nowhere to the marshy South South and where the self-styled leader imperially superintendents the finances of six states with mindboggling cases of corruption.

“The spirited defence for the suspended Central Bank Governor mounted by the APC was because the leaders of the party benefitted immensely from the regime of sleaze that took place under Sanusi. A fraudulent N84 billion contract was awarded to a leader of the party while another N5 billion was paid to another stalwart of the party as consultancy fee,” Metuh added.

According to him,

nothing showcases the anti-democratic ambience of the APC than its inability to conduct properly-constituted congresses and convention to elect its substantive officers almost a year after formation.

“The strange bedfellows have merged but the structures are refusing to integrate, hence, crisis and disagreements in its ranks.

“This disagreements played out on the high table today (Thursday) at the party’s summit as one of its leaders, Senator Modu Sherif, pointedly accused the leadership and the organisers of excluding and marginalizing a section of its founders. With persistent in-fighting at this cradle, how does APC hope to unify Nigerians and guarantee the survival of democracy?” Metuh asked.

He further described as tissue of lies, the claim by the APC that it was the first party to launch a code of conduct.”

second time the school would record such incident, saying the first experience affected about five pupils who only regained their consciousness after more than five days at the hospital.

But when New Telegraph asked the council chairman what step was taken when it was first reported, he said he had closed down the laboratory since last year.

But the school is alleging that the laboratory still operates illegally.

Meanwhile, the manager of the laboratory, Mr. Felix Maria-Odiaka, who said he was arrested over similar accusation in October last year and detained for 11 days at the Criminal Investigation Department in Yaba, insisted that his company was not emitting anything offensive.

He also demanded that his company should be reopened immediately for the survival of his family and staff.

The leadership of the shopping arcade management committee including the Chairman and an Ex-Officio, Mr. Semiu Oganla, also alleged that the school may be keeping dangerous chemicals

in the premises but the school insisted it does not because it is a junior school.

Meanwhile, parents of the 13 pupils have called on the government to ensure none of their children die from the incident.

The aggrieved parents, who thronged the emergency ward of the hospital, called on Governor Babatunde Fashola to find a lasting solution to the recurrent sudden collapse of the pupils at the school premises.

According to one of them who simply identified herself as Mrs Shade, more pupils are likely to be affected by the chemical on the long run, saying only those who could not withstand the emission collapsed immediately.

One of the victims who simply identified herself as Adefisayo, said: “I was playing during the break, I perceived some odour I could not comprehend. I developed stomach ache and I suddenly fell down and I woke up to find myself in the hospital”.

Another victim, Ogumgbamigbe Molade, also said she woke up to find herself being fanned by some people before she was rushed to the hospital.

NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

5

NPC seeks N17bn to conduct 2016 census HEADCOUNT

Commission needs N5 billion for additional registration centres and N5.7 billion for ICT centres Philip Nyam Abuja

C

hairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Mr. Eze Duru-Iheoma, yesterday disclosed that N17 billion will be required to successfully conduct the 2006 census.

Duru-Iheoma said this

when he appeared before the House of Representatives Committee on Population for 2014 budget defence.

He said the money would be used for the purposes of creating additional registration centres, which would gulp about N5 billion and construction of ICT centres across the 36 states estimated to cost N5.7 billion.

The chairman informed that “Our states’ offices are on rent. We need to develop them and have them fully equipped with ICT. We suggested N5.7 billion for this.

We have the mandate of

2016, and we don’t intend to postpone it, even by one day,” he said.

He said, however, that only N203 million was allocated for that purpose by the Budget Office.

He requested N34.566 billion, out of which N17 billion of it was meant for 2016 head count.

But he said only N6.2 billion was approved by the Budget Office for the commission as 2014 budget.

“With all the things we need, the N203 million given will not even scratch them on the face,” and appealed to the committee to intervene on the matter,” he stated.

On the N75 million budgeted for construction of the commission’s state offices last year and in 2012, the chairman explained that because the N75 million would not be enough to expend on one state office, the manage-

ment decided to spend it across offices in the states by constructing perimeter fences.

He said the decision was hinged on the fact that the commission was given plots of lands in some states and saw the need to secure them before they were revoked.

He told the lawmakers that out of the N1.5 billion approved for capital projects in the 2013 budget, only N834 million was re-

leased, representing 55.65 per cent, while the recurrent had 99 per cent implementation, with N374 million released.

In his response, acting chairman of the committee, Hon. Abdulrazaq Nuhu Zaki (PDP, Bauchi), promised to ensure that funds were appropriated but demanded to know what the commission was doing to complete the building of its head office in Abuja.

20 Boko Haram members killed in Borno

T

he Defence Headquarters (DHQ) yesterday said security forces foiled attempts by terrorists to attack Ajiri and Mafa in Borno State on Wednesday, leading to the killing of 20 insurgents.

This information is contained in a statement

by Major-General Chris Olukolade, Director of Defence Information (DDI).

The statement said the terrorists were trying to attack the villages and other communities in the outskirts of Maidu-

guri and Dikwa close to the Cameroon borders.

“The ambush mounted by the terrorists to enable them to unleash terror on the communities unchallenged, was also cleared by troops on reinforcement mission.

“Twenty insurgents died in the encounter, while our troops sustained varying degree of injuries.

“Arms captured from the terrorists include various brands of machine guns and improvised explosive devices,” it said.

President Goodluck Jonathan (right) receiving Letter of Credence from Ambassador Designate of the Republic of Italy, Fulvio Rustico at the State House, Abuja …yesterday.

PHOTO: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN

1,414.5m

The total coal production (in tonnes oil equivalent) of China (the world’s biggest).

Source:Telegraph.co.uk

0.96

The percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) Norway donates as aid to other countries (the world’s highest).

Source: Telegraph.co.uk

19,876,488

The total number of people within the New York, New Jersey and Long Island, NY (US highest).

Source: worldfactsandfigures.com

Amaechi, Jonathan in verbal war CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

democratic culture that should provide level playing ground over and above every other consideration.

“They must learn to make party primaries a genuine exercise in testing the acceptability and popularity of every candidate rather than a makebelieve, a mere gathering of political party faithful.”

“Practically, every discussion today is shadowed by the coming general elections. It has made our usually challenging federal system even more difficult. People from different parts of the country seem to have drawn the line on this matter and even highly respected people throw caution to the winds when they comment on 2015,” he

stated.

The Speaker also decried the attitude of those foisting their choice of candidates on the polity and those threatening fire if their tribesman does not win an election.

Tambuwal noted: “Part of the problem is that tribalism and nepotism have become such a critical part of our policy and politics that people often feel that they will not be reckoned with unless their candidate, their tribesman or woman, or their party win.

“We must learn to run our government in such a manner that whoever comes to power, the rights and privileges of every citizen remains guaranteed. Once we stop seeing

power as an opportunity to enrich our friends and cronies but an opportunity to leave positive mark on governance, the extreme views that people hold over candidates for elections will be substantially moderated”.

Meanwhile, the strained relationship between the Jonathan-led administration and Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State again came to the fore, as their representatives openly traded words over poor governance in the country.

Speaking at the event, Amaechi accused the Jonathan administration of poor performance in all facets of the economy.

The governor, represented by his Commis-

sioner for Information, Mrs. Ibim Sementari, in his paper entitled: “The Metaphor of Change and the politics of 2015” said: “Statistics emanating from both the World Bank and National Bureau of Statistics state that unemployment rate is 23 per cent in Nigeria. It was by far lower than this before the enthronement of the Government of President Jonathan. Unemployment rate averaged at 14.6 per cent, reaching an all-time high of 23.9 per cent in 2011. It had an all-time high record low of 5.3 per cent in 2006. Nigerians live in want, hunger and penury.

“Unemployment and poverty may differ in regions to varying degrees,

but it knows no faith, no religion, knows no tribe, no nation. It brews violence and has led to the annihilation of families in the North-East and Southsouth of Nigeria. Death on the streets of Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Kano, and Bauchi are no longer lessons for discussions. They are a daily occurrence. The debate is whether it is religiously motivated or it is driven by ignorance, hunger, and poverty. Whatever part of the divide you find yourself, you will know that violence has overwhelmed the government.

“The stories of both fuel and kerosene subsidy are not anything to behold. It smears of corruption and rottenness. The aviation bulletproof saga

remains unresolved.”

But Jonathan’s Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, would not agree with Amaechi.

Maku, represented by his Special Assistant (Media), Mr. Kingsley Osadolor, disagreed with the statistics presented.

According to Maku, governance is of three tiers and not at the federal level. The states were expected to provide employment, build schools and provide other infrastructure.

He accused Amaechi of playing to the gallery on the number of children out of schools, stating that the president’s commitment to education made him to establish Almajiri schools in the North.

6

NEWS

Friday, March 7, 2014

PHOTO NEWS

Sack of aviation chiefs: Intrigues, power tussle in NCAA Wole Shadare

A A cross-section of Nigerian Women in a peaceful protest as against the escalating rate of violence in the North East, killings of innocent children held in Abuja…yesterday.

PHOTO:TIMOTHYIKUOMENISAN

ll seems not to be well in the aviation regulatory agency, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) following the removal of aviation agencies chiefs

by President Goodluck Jonathan on Tuesday.

The removal of the Director General of the NCAA, Captain Folayele Akinkuotu has paved the way for power tussle between the Acting DirectorGeneral, Benedict Adeyileka and the former acting DG, Mr. Joyce Nkemakolam over the redeployment of a worker of the agency.

Nkemakolam was the acting director-general of NCAA after Dr. Harold

Demuren was removed by President Jonathan last March.

A source close to the Ministry of Aviation told reporters yesterday that Nkemakolam had reversed the decision of the immediate past DG of the agency, Capt. Akinkuotu who redeployed a level 13 officer, Chukwuyelu Ngene, from Abuja to Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The source, who pleaded anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the media, disclosed that a level 16 officer and the Abuja Regional Manager of NCAA, Abiodun Adeyemi was removed by the erstwhile Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah and moved to Calabar office of

the agency.

The source said that immediately Adeyemi was removed, Ngene, the level 13 officer at the Port Harcourt office of the agency was ordered to take over the regional office of the agency in Abuja, a situation, which did not go down well with most of the staff as there were still senior officers who could take over from the redeployed officer.

However, when Akinkuotu assumed duty in August, last year, he reversed the decision and returned Adeyemi to Abuja while he moved Ngene to Port Harcourt office of the agency. That was the situation until Akinkuotu was disengaged on Tuesday.

Only 26 out of 78 HMOs healthy – Scribe

T President, Women Arise for Change Initiative, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin (second right) and other members of the Nigerian women during a peaceful walk to protest against the killing of Nigerians by the Boko Haram in Ikeja, Lagos…yesterday.

PHOTO:TONY EGUAYE

L-R; Executive Secretary MTN Foundation, Ms Nonny Ugboma; Director, MTN Foundation, Mr. Dennis Okoro ; Abia State Governor, Dr. Sir Theordore Orji; Speaker, Abia State House of Assembly, Sir Ude Chukwu and Commissioner for Health, Dr. Okechukwu Ogah during the presentation of the MTNF Y'ello Doctor Mobile Clinic to the state at Michael Opara Auditorium, Abia state...yesterday.

he Executive Secretary of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Dr Femi Thomas, said only 26 out of 78 registered Health Management Organisations (HMOs) were healthy.

Thomas said this at a meeting with State Commissioners for Health in Abuja yesterday.

In spite of this, he said efforts were on to expand health cover for pregnant women and children less than five years of age in the Maternal and Newborn Child Healthcare programme of the NHIS. Thomas added that efforts were also on to com-

afford to be at the back. ``The HMOs are crucial to meeting universal health coverage. That is why we want them to improve on their activities.’’

He said the scheme had been restructured to give health cover to 70.8 million Nigerians by 2015, pointing out that this would be achieved through partnership with the private sector.

Thomas said the scheme's target for 2014 was to ensure that no fewer than 24 million primary school children got health cover to reduce deaths from simple ailments.

Seven feared killed as car rams into students in Awka Uwakwe Abugu AWKA

S L-R: Most Rt Rev, Samuel Atodele; Baba Aladura General, Elder George Tunolase and President, Unification of Cherubim and Seraphim Churches, Ondo state, Primate Ade Ademisokun-Turton, during the inauguration of Ilaje LG Executive Chapter of the Unification in Ondo State.

mence biometric registration of enrollees, saying this would help to combat irregularities facing the scheme.

According to him, HMOs are important stakeholders in achieving universal health coverage, hence the need to align themselves to meeting this target.

He said the scheme cannot afford to work with unhealthy HMOs, and urged them to improve their activities to place Nigerian health system in its place of pride. ``Nigeria cannot afford to operate on low coverage of healthcare. We cannot

even persons were feared dead yesterday in Awka, Anambra state when the driver of a Toyota Camry car lost control of the vehicle and hit some 30 students of the Community Secondary School, Umuokpu, Awka and Union Secondary School, Amawbia.

The accident turned out a multiple one of sort as a bus hit a student while

trying to avoid the horrific crash, leading to the student being trapped under the bus.

The incident which took place at the Umuokpu Junction along the old Onitsha- Enugu expressway in the capital city drew a huge crowd of sympathizers many of whom wept openly over the grisly incident in which at least 10 other students were critically injured.

The ill-fated students were on their way home

from school and were probably waiting to board their choice vehicles when the car reportedly rammed into them.

One of the victims feared killed in the accident had his head crushed and was a student of Union Secondary School.

Beside the student, there was an old man whose right leg was broken and his right eyes cut open, while a white substance was seen on his forehead.

NEWS

Friday, March 7, 2014

We are moving from manual to electronic voting, says INEC Adesina Wahab ADO-EKITI

T

he distribution of Permanent Voter's Card by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is a step towards moving from manual to electronic voting in the country.

This was disclosed in Ado-Ekiti yesterday by the Resident Eletoral Commissioner for Ekiti State, Alhaji Halilu Pai. Pai, who led INEC officials to a stakeholders' meeting with traditional rulers and relgious leaders in the state, added that there was need to use religious and traditional institutions going by their influence in the society.

According to him, the exercise was necessary so that the electoral umpires would succeed in its task of conducting free, fair and credible polls.

"We are all desirous of having credible elections and we all have roles to play. The task of doing that does not rest solely on INEC. We are calling on you to assist us in succeeding," he said.

Pai urged voters to go out and collect PVC from Friday to Sunday

this week.

He said those who have just come of age, people who have lost their temporary voter's cards and those who want to relocate their right to vote to Ekiti from another state would have the chance to do that during the continuous voters' registration from March 12 to 19 this year.

The Head of Operations, Ekiti State INEC, Mr Alani Oduntan, said voters would take their temporary cards to the 2,195 polling units in the state to exchange them for permanent ones.

He explained that members of the National Youth Service Corps had been drafted to man the polling units and relate with voters.

"There will be no collection of the new cards by proxy, as each voter must come with his voter's card and after checking his name on the register will be given the new card.

The card will last for 10 years and each voter will sign and thumb print, this is to forestall any situation where people would come and say somebody else had come and collected their cards," he said.

Lenten season: Pray for Nigeria, Northern govs urge Christians Dan Atori, Minna

T

he Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) has enjoined Christian faithful to use the Lenten season which began on Wednesday to pray to God for solutions to the socio-economic and security challenges dogging the nation.

Chairman of the forum and Governor of Niger State, Dr Babangida Aliyu, made the call yesterday in a statement signed by his chief press secretary, Danladi Ndayebo.

The forum also enjoined Christian faithful to conduct themselves properly during the sea-

son in order to maximize the spiritual and physical benefits in the season.

Governor Aliyu identified good intention, prayers and firmness of purpose in the pursuit of good deeds as conditions for reaping the benefits of the holy season.

He reminded Christians that the “faithful are obliged to fast, pray and abstain from heavy meals and other bad habits as well as give alms during the Lenten period,” urging them to accord it all the necessary attention by being proactive in decisions and actions that will ensure their full participation in the fast.

7

51 million snoring Nigerians risk sudden death - Expert DISORDER

There are many disorder associated with sleep Wale Elegbede

A

s the “World Sleep Day” is observed globally today, a sleep disorder specialist, Dr. Obafemi Akintobi, has raised the alarm that over 51 million Nigerians risk sudden death

when they snore during their sleep.

Akintobi, of Marvina Sleep Disorders Centre, Lagos, who made the observation at the commemoration of the "World Sleep Day" in Lagos, urged government at all levels to embark on massive enlightenment of Nigerians on treatment and management of life-threatening sleep disorders.

He said: “It becomes necessary to talk on the alarming rate of sudden

405.0

The average annual precipitation of Debundsiha, Cameroun (Africa’s highest).

Source: worldfactsandfigures.com

deaths in Nigeria occasioned by Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) because of its adverse medical and public health effects. About 51 million are the estimated number of Nigerians who snore and are at the risk of OSA, yet the medical disorder is alarmingly underrated and generally under-diagnosed in Nigeria.

“There is therefore, a need for proper enlightenment of people on the medical disorder. It is time

134

The highest temperature (in degree F) of Death valley, CA (Greenland Ranch).

for public health authorities to embark on accelerated awareness campaign for the public on the basic signs, symptoms, treatment and management of the medical problem.”

Akintobi said there are about 77 sleep disorders and what most people in Nigeria know is insomnia, but that there is also snoring which many people attribute to stress but is a major cause of Obstructive Sleep Disorder.

79.4

The life expectancy (in years) at birth of a citizen of United Kingdom.

Source: Telegraph.co.uk

L-R: Chairman of the newly constituted National Conference, Justice Idris Kutigi; the Conference Secretary, Dr. Vajerie Azinge, with the Vice Chairman, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi after a meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan at the State House Abuja…yesterday.

PHOTO: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN

Lawyers want govt to immortalise Fajuyi HONOUR

Lawyer laments failure of govts to honour Fajuyi with Centenary Award

Foluso Ogunmodede ADO-EKITI

S

ome 48 years after the first military governor of the defunct Western Region, Lt. Col. Adekunle Fajuyi, was killed in the first military coup, lawyers in the country yesterday, made a case for his recognition. Fajuyi was killed

in Ibadan in the 1966 military coup alongside his boss and guest,then Head of State, General Aguiyi Ironsi.

They said it was time to immortalise Fajuyi, whom they described as Nigeria's symbol of unity.

The lawyers, through their President, Mr. Okey Wali (SAN), said it was sad that despite Fajuyi's rare courage, no government had deemed it fit to accord him due recognition 48 years after his death.

They said this yesterday at the Fountain Hotel, Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State

capital, venue of their 2014 National Executive Committe meeting with no fewer than 2,000 lawyers in attendance.

Prominent among the lawyers at the three-day event, were the doyen of the Nigerian Bar, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN; Chief Wole Olanipekun,(SAN) ; Mr. Agustin Alegeh, (SAN); the Ekiti State Chief Judge, Justice Ayodele Daramola; Chief Abilodun, (SAN); Mike Ozekhome, (SAN) and Chief Adeniyi Akintola, (SAN).

Also at the event were the Ekiti Deputy Gover-

nor, Professor Modupe Adelabu who represented the governor Dr. John Kayode Fayemi; a former NBA General Secretary, Ibrahim Mark and Chief Orishalade, who stood in for the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly.

The NBA President, Wali decried the Federal Government's refusal to immortalise Fajuyi nor include his name in the Centenenary Awards in spite of the late soldier's loyalty and commitment to the nation's unity--- by laying down his life for his guest.

8

NEWS

Friday, March 7, 2014

FULL LIST OF DELEGATES TO THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE ELDER STATESMEN

TRADITIONAL RULERS

S/NDELEGATES 1. Dr. Tunji Braithwaite 2. Chief Ayo Adebanjo 3. Chief Richard Akinjide 4. Chief Olu Falae 5. Erelu Olusola Obada 6. Chief Afe Babalola, SAN 7. General Ike Nwachukwu 8. Iyom Josephine Anenih 9. Senator Jim Nwobodo 10. Chief Mike Ahamba, SAN 11. Senator Azu Agboti 12. Chief Peter Odili 13. King Alfred Diete Spiff 14. Edwin K. Clark 15. Daisy Danjuma 16. Prof. Evara Ejemot Esu, OFR 17. Chief Nduese Esiene 18. Prof. Ambrose Okwoli 19. Alhaji Abdulahi Ohoimah 20. Prof. Ibrahim Gambari 21. Mr. Dogara Mark Ogbole 22. Prof. Jerry Gana 23. Gen. Jonathan Temlong 24. Prof. Jubril Aminu 25. Alhaji Ahmadu Adamu Muazu 26. Arc. Ibrahim Bunu 27. Amb. Yerima Abdullahi 28. Mr. John Mamman 29. Alhaji Adamu Waziri 30. Alhaji Umaru Musa Zandan 31. Prof. Mohammed Jumari 32. Mallam Tanko Yakassai 33. Senator Ibrahim Idah 34. Hon. Justice Usman Mohammed Argungu 35. Prof. Sambo Jinadu 36. Ishia Aliyu Gusau 37. General A. B. Mamman

Nembe Kingdom 12.His Royal Highness, Chief Nosakhare Isekhure, Chief Priest of Benin Kingdom 13.HRM Ismail Danlami Mohammed, Sarki of Karshi

RETIRED ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE OFFICERS (RANAO) ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (ARPON) S/NDELEGATES 1.Gen. Zamani Lekwot 2.Maj. Gen. Alex Mshelbwala 3.Rear Adm CS Ehanmo 4.Brig. Gen. (Barr.) DO Idada-Ikponmwen 5.Group Capt Ohadomere 6.Gen. Raji Rasaki

ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED POLICE OFFICERS OF NIGERIA (ARPON) S/NDELEGATES 1. R. O. Osanaiye, AIG (rtd) 2.Alh. (Barr.) Mamman Misau, AIG (rtd) 3.Alhaji Bashiru Albasu, AIG (rtd.)

4.Chief (Barr.) Nicholas Duru Nkemdeme, CP (rtd) 5.Barr. J. I. Ebinum, DCP (rtd) 6.Barr. Samuel Adetuyi, CP (rtd)

RETIRED STATE SECURITY AND NIA OFFICERS S/NDELEGATES 1.Chief Jeremiah Okwuonu 2.A. K. Horsfall 3.Mr. Iliya Danga 4.Chief Babatunde Ala 5.Amb. B. M. Sani 6.Amb. J. K. Shinkaiye

TRADITIONAL RULERS S/NDELEGATES 1.His Royal Highness, Alh. Dr. Zayyanu Abdullahi, Emir of Yauri 2.His Royal Highness, Alh. (Dr.) Nuhu Mohammed Sanusi, Emir of Dutse 3.His Royal Highness, Dr.Muhammadu Barkindo Mustapha, CFR, Lamido of Adamawa 4.His Royal Highness, Alh. Abdullahi Ibn Muhammad Askirama III, Emir of Askira 5.His Royal Highness, Alh. Sulu Gambari, CFR, Emir of Ilorin 6.His Royal Highness, Elder Jacob Gyang Buba, Gbong Gwom Jos 7.His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Gbadebo Adedeji, JP, CON, Ariyowonye Lim Owaoye of Okemesi 8.His Royal Majesty, Oba Arc. Aderemi A. Adedapo, Alayemore of Ido Osun, Coordinator 9.His Royal Highness, Eze (Dr) Cletus I. Illomuanya, Obi of Obinugwu 10.His Royal Highness, Eze Elder Agom Eze, OON 11.His Royal Highness, Dr. Edmund Daukuro, FNSE, Amanyanabo of

RETIRED CIVIL SERVANTS S/NDELEGATES 1.Engr. Ebele O. Okeke 2.Dr. Edet A. Ekerendu 3.Mr. Akin Arikawe 4.Chief Robert Audu 5.Ammuna Lawan Ali 6.Dr. H. U. Sanusi

NIGERIA LABOUR CONGRESS

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN’S SOCIETIES (NCWS)

CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS

BROADCASTING ORGANISATION OF NIGERIA

NORTH CENTRAL GEOPOLITICAL ZONE

S/NDELEGATES 1.Abubakar B. Jijiwa, MFR 2.High Chief (Dr.) Aleogho Raymond Dokpesi, PhD, OFR

S/NDELEGATES 1.Elder Bulus Dareng 2.Lt. Gen. J. T. Useni 3.Sen. Ibrahim Mantu 4.Alhaji Aliyu Akwe Doma 5.Mr. Anthony Sani 6.Prof. Onje Gewyedo 7.Prof. Iyorchia Ayu 8.Prof. John Uko 9.Dr. Philip O. Salawu 10.Bayo Ojo 11.Prof. (Mrs.) Mariatu Tunuche 12.Dr. Shem Nuhu Zagbayi 13.Engr. Mustapha Bello 14.Sen. Gbemi Saraki 15.Mr. John Dara

S/NDELEGATES 1.Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja 2.Hon. Muhammad Lawal Nalado

Public Interest Lawyers League 3.Dr. Isaac Osuoka Social Development Integrated Centre (Social Action) & Pan Niger Delta Conference (PNDC) 4.Joe Okei-Odumakin Women Arise for Change Initiative & Campaign for Democracy 5.Ezenwa Nwagwu, Partners for Electoral Reform 6.Festus Okoye, Human Right Monitors 7.Dr. Olisa Agbakoba,SAN Leader, Civil Society Organization 8.Ebuchukwu Ezike Civil Liberties Organization (CLO) 9.Femi Falana, SAN Leader, Civil Society Organizations 10.Dr. Abiola Akiyode Women Advocates Research & Documentation Centre 11.Wale Okuniyi PRONACO 12.Bisi Olateru Olagbegi Women Consortium of Nigeria 13.Kyauta Giwa Community Action for Popular Participation (CAPP) 14.Steve Aluko, Civil Liberties Organization 15.Jaye Gaskiya, United Action for Democracy 16.Rommy Mom, Lawyers’ Alert 17.Auwal Musa Rafsanjani Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre 18.Mallam Naseer Kura Basic Rights Action Kano 19.Dr. Emma Shehu International Institute of Journalism 20.Dr. Maryam Abdullah Women for Peace in Nigeria 21.Hajia Shetu Alfa FOMWAN 22.Y. Z. Ya’u, Centre for Information Technology & Development 23.Abubakar Saidiq Ibrahim Campaign for Democracy & Development 24.Dudu Paloma, Responsible Citizenship

LABOUR PARTY

NIGERIANS IN DIASPORA EUROPE

S/NDELEGATES 1.Chief (Mrs.) Nkechi Okemini Mba 2.Mrs. Love Ezema 3.Mrs. Remi Kuku 4.Dr. (Mrs.) Patricia Ogbonnaya 5.Chief (Mrs.) Anthonia Balogun 6.Chief (Mrs.) Temitope Ajayi 7.Hajiya Ramatu Usman, mni 8.Chief (Mrs) Hannatu Lohor 9.Mrs. Princess Rabi Ibrahim 10.Mrs. Safiya Ibrahim Ogo 11.Hajiya Miriam S. Mohammed 12.Mrs. Princess Hadiza Ibrahim

S/NDELEGATES 1.Abdulwahed Ibrahim Omar 2.Chris Uyot 3.Kiri Mohammed Shaibu 4.Joe Ajaero 5.Promise Adewusi 6.Issa Aremu 7.Lucy Offiong 8.Ayuba Wabba 9.Dr. Peter Ozo-Eson 10.Emma Ugboaja 11.Ibrahim Khaleel 12.Michael Olukoya

MARKET WOMEN ASSOCIATIONS

TRADE UNION CONGRESS OF NIGERIA

S/NDELEGATES 1.Ms. Hauwa Evelyn Shekarau 2.Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor

S/NDELEGATES 1.Bobboi Bala Kaigama 2.Barrister Musa Lawal 3.Mrs. Dinatu Asibi Assani 4.Olasanye Oyinkan 5.Sunday Olusoji Salako 6.Olakunle Olanrewaju Olaitan 7.Peter Esele 8.Augustine Etafo 9.Maryam Jummai Bello 10.Hassan Salihu Anka 11.Bede Opara 12.Aliyu Musa

NIGERIA EMPLOYERS’ CONSULTATIVE ASSOCIATION (NECA) S/NDELEGATES 1.Chief R. U. Uche 2.Mallam Mahmud Othman

MANUFACTURERS ASSOCATION OF NIGERIA (MAN) S/NDELEGATES 1.Chief Kola Jamodu, OFR 2.Alhaji Ali Madugu, mni

NIGERIA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY AND MANUFACTURERS ASSOCATION (NACCIMA) S/NDELEGATES 1.Alhaji Mohammed B. Abubakar, MON 2.Chief Bassey E. O. Edem, MFR

NIGERIAN ECONOMIC SUMMIT GROUP (NESG) S/NDELEGATES 1.Mr. Bukar Kyari 2.Mr. Frank Nweke II

NATIONAL YOUTH COUNCIL OF NIGERIA S/NDELEGATES 1.Comrade Henry Nwabueze 2.Ajani James Olawale 3.Abdullahi Abdulmajeed 4.Mallam Hamma Bello Bilkindo 5.Charles Ibiang 6.Ben Duntoye

NATIONAL ASSOCATION OF NIGERIAN STUDENTS (NANS) S/NDELEGATES 1.Yinka Gbadebo, GCNS 2.Sylvester Okoh 3.Abdullahi Ali-Kano 4.Chinonso Obasi 5.Clifford Abur 6.Olayinka Dada (JP)

OTHER YOUTH ORGANISATIONS S/NDELEGATES 1.Hassan Rilwan 2.Yadomah Bukar Mandara 3.Yakubu Shendam 4.Kasim Akande 5.Mosunmola Umoru 6.Nnaemeka Ikegwuonu

S/NDELEGATES 1.Mrs. Sheila Tamuno Abiye 2.Hajiya Alina Usuma 3.Hajiya Marvyatu Iliasu 4.Mrs. Sarah Benjamin 5.Mrs. Felicia Sanni 6.Mrs. Ifeayinwa Ezenwa

INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF WOMEN LAWYERS (FIDA)

NIGERIAN ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN JOURNALISTS (NAWOJ) S/NDELEGATES 1.Asabe Baba Nahaya, JP 2.Brenda Akpan

WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT, BUSINESS AND PUBLIC SERVICES (WINBIZ) S/NDELEGATES 1.Mrs. Ifeoma Idigbe 2.Hajiya Bola Shagaya

ALL PROGRESSIVES GRAND ALLIANCE (APGA) S/NDELEGATES 1.Chief Chris Ejike Uche 2.Dr. Sagir Auwal Maidoya

ACCORD PARTY

S/NDELEGATES 1.Chief (Barr.) Dan Nwanyanwu, mni 2.Comrade A. A. Salam (Baraden Paiko)

PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP) S/NDELEGATES 1.Dr. Ahmadu Ali 2.Commodore Olabode George (rtd.)

ALL PROGRESSIVE CONGRESS (APC)

S/NDELEGATES 1.Adebayo Oladimeji 2.Christian Chukwudozie Udechukwu

AMERICA

S/NDELEGATES 1.Mr. Gabriel Okoye 2.Hon George Anibowel

AFRICA S/NDELEGATES 1.Abdulahi Abubakar 2.Amb. Vincent Okobi

ASIA

S/NDELEGATES 1.Yet to forward nominations 2.

S/NDELEGATES 1.Dr. Jonathan Obaje 2.Dr. Balarabe Yushau

MUSLIM LEADERS

PEOPLE LIVING WITH DISABILITIES

S/NDELEGATES 1.Prof. Muhammad Nur Alkali 2.Prof. Is-haq O. Oloyede 3.Hajia Amina B. Omoti 4.Mal. Muzzammil Sani Hanga 5.Alh. Nurudeen Lemu 6.Nomination yet to be completed

CHRISTIAN LEADERS S/NDELEGATES 1.Bishop Joseph D. Bagobiri 2.Prof. Andrew Haruna 3.Elder Barr. John A. Achimugu 4.Pastor Emmanuel Bosun 5.Dr. Mrs. Kate Okpareke 6.Barr. Godswill Iyoha Iyoke

CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS 1.Rev. Nnimmo Bassey Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) 2.Mahmood Aminu

S/NDELEGATES 1.Dandeson Hart 2.Barr. Ayodele Adekanmbi 3.Ms. Ekaete Judith Umoh 4.Kenan Mamman 5.Esther Andrew 6.Zainabi Argungu

NEWSPAPER PROPRIETORS ASOCIATION OF NIGERIA S/NDELEGATES 1.Mr. Nduka Obaigbena 2.Mal. Kabir Yusuf

NIGERIA GUILD OF EDITORS S/NDELEGATES 1.Isaac Ighure 2.Is’haq Modibo Kawu

NIGERIA UNION OF JOURNALISTS

S/NDELEGATES 1.Alhaji Mohammed Sani Zoro 2.Mr. Lanre Ogundipe

SOUTH SOUTH GEOPOLITICAL ZONE

S/NDELEGATES 1.Okon Osung 2.Idongest Nkangha 3.Ray Ekpu 4.Amb. (Prof.) Lawrence Ekpebu, OFR 5.Prof. Kimse Okoko 6.Sen. Musa Adede 7.Ntufam (Dr.) Josephat Okey 8.Hon. Orok Out Duke 9.Chief Joshua B. Fomudo 10.Gen. Paul Omu 11.Chief Paul Enebeli 12.Sen. Yisa Braimah 13.Barr. Chris Agbonmwanegbe 14.Chief Sergeant Awuse 15.Dr. Silas Eneyo

SOUTH WEST GEOPOLITICAL ZONE S/NDELEGATES 1.Senator Kofoworola BucknorAkerele 2.Supo Sonibare 3.Sir Olaniwun Ajayi 4.Dr. Adetokunbo AwolowoDosumu 5.Chief Ajibola Ogunsola 6.Barr. Niyi Akintola, SAN 7.Mr. Yinka Odumakin 8.Senator Anthony Adefuye 9.Senator Femi Okunrounmu 10.Hon. Salvador Adegoke Moshood 11.Bashorun Sehinde Arogbofa 12.Dr. Amos Akingba 13.Chief Gani Adams 14.Dr. Femi Obayori 15Pastor Tunde Bakare

SOUTH EAST GEOPOLITICAL ZONE S/NDELEGATES 1.Gary Enwo-Igariwey 2.Chief Onyema Ugochukwu 3.Chief Chukwu Wachukwu 4.Prof. I. C. Madubuike 5.HRH Igwe (Amb) L. O. C. Agubuzu 6.His Excellency, Amb. Fidel Ayogu 7.Chief Goddy Uwazurike 8.Dr. Dozie Ikedife 9.Chief Chris Eluemunoh 10.Chief Uzoma Nwosu Iheme 11.Prof. Chinedu Nwajiuba 12.Dr. Joe Nwaogu 13.Dr. Sam Egwu 14.Dr. Clement Mgbada 15.Prof. Nnenna Oti

NORTH EAST GEOPOLITICAL ZONE

PROFESSIONAL BODIES

S/NDELEGATES NOMINATED BY 1.Okey Wali, SAN, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) 2.Engr. (Senator) Adefemi Kila, FNSEThe Nigerian Society of Engineers(NSE) 3.Dr. Segun Aina, OFR Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIB) 4.Dr. Osahon Enabulele Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) 5.Dr. Nelson U. O. Uwaga, mni, FNIM, Nigerian Institute of Management(NIM) 6.Arc. Waheed Niyi Brimmo, fnia, pnia Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) 7.Senator (Chief) Felix Kolawole Bajomo, FCA, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) 8.Mr. Johnson Oludeinde Oluata, FCNA, Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) 9.Dr. Rotimi Oladele, FNIPR Nigerian Institute of Public Relations(NIPR) 10.Mrs. Bunmi Oke, frpa Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAPN) 11.Mr. Emeka D.Eleh The Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) 12.Engr. Olu Andah Wai-Ogosu Nigerian Environmental Society 13.Prof. Olu Ajakaiye Nigeria Economic Society 14.Prof. Yakubu A. Ochefu Historical Society of Nigeria 15.Alhaji Musa Isiwele Road Transport Employers Assocation (RTEAN)

THE NIGERIAN ACADEMY OF SCIENCE S/NDELEGATES 1.Prof. Oyewale Tomori, FAS, NNOM

ACADEMY OF ENGINEERING S/NDELEGATES 1.Engr. V. I. Maduka, OFR

S/NDELEGATES 1.Mallam Mohammed Ibrahim 2.Hon. Mohammed Umara Kumalia 3.Mr. Paul Bassi 4.Amb. Ibrahim Mai Sule 5.Dr. Abdu Bulama 6.Mr. Bar Abubakar Samo 7.Amb. Adamu Aliyu 8.Dr. Sale Dauda 9.Dr. Daniel Madu 10.Sen. Saidu Kumo 11.Amb. Hassan Adamu 12.Kashim Ndjida 13.Chief B. Leonard 14.Barrister Chris Abongaby 15.Alhaji Isa Mafindi

THE NIGERIAN ACADEMY OF EDUCATION

NORTH WEST GEOPOLITICAL ZONE

S/NDELEGATES 1.Hon. Justice G. A. Oguntade 2.Hon. Justice F. F. Tabai 3.Hon. Justice Abdulahi Mustapha 4.Hon. Justice Adamu Bello 5.Hon. Justice Veronica Ngozi Ume 6.Hon. Justice Baba Alkali Ba’aba

S/NDELEGATES 1.IGP Ibrahim Coomassie (rtd) 2.Amb. Yaro Yusuf Mamman 3.Prof. Auwalu Yadudu 4.Alhaji Magaji Danbatta 5.AVM Mutari Mohammed 6.Sen. Bello Maitama Yusuf 7.Ms. Fati Eunice Ibrahim 8.Sen. Mohammed Kabiru Jibrin 9.Sen. Saidu Musa Dansadau 10.Col. Bala Mande 11.Gen. Tanko Ayuba 12.Hajiya Maria Waziri 13.Bilkisu Magoro 14.Hajiya Laraba Dattijo 15.Sen. Ladan Shuni

S/NDELEGATES 1.Prof. U. M. O. Ivowi

NIGERIAN ACADEMY OF LETTERS S/NDELEGATES 1.Prof. Munzali Jibril

ACADEMY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES S/NDELEGATES 1.Yet to be nominated

JUDICIARY

FORMER GOVERNORS S/NDELEGATES 1.Chief Achike Udenwa 2.Chief Olusegun Osoba 3.Obong Victor Attah 4.Alh. Saidu Barda 5.Amb. Fidelis Tapgun 6.Nomination not completed

TO BE CONTINUED

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Edo mothers protest massacre of 43 students in Yobe BLOODSHED

Edo women demand end to Boko Haram killings, kidnappings Cajetan Mmuta Benin

W

omen from different parts of Edo State yesterday protested against the massacre in the last two weeks of 43 students of the Federal Government College (FGC), Bun-Yadi in Gujba Local

T

he Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday re-arraigned a former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi FaniKayode, on amended 40-count charge of moneylaundering.

He was re-arraigned before Justice Rita OfiliAjumogobia of the Federal High Court in Lagos.

The former minister was said to have laundered about N100,219,500 by paying them into his personal account through an associate.

The first count reads: "That you, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, on or about the 22nd day of November 2006, whilst serving as

Government area of Yobe State by members of the Boko Haram sect.

The women took their protest to the secretariat complex of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Edo State Council and the Government House in Benin, the state capital.

The mothers, who were in black mourning clothes and with placards carrying various inscriptions, urged the insurgents to stop the gruesome killings of innocent children who

Minister of Aviation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, made a financial transaction exceeding N500,000, which was not done through a financial institution by accepting cash payment of N10 million which sum was further carried in cash to First Inland Bank, Plc, Apapa Branch (now First City Monument Bank Plc) through one Mark Saviour Ndifreke (your close associate now at large) and put in an investment account in your favour for 90 days contrary to Section 15(1) (d) and punishable under Section 15(2)(b) of the Money-Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2004."

Osoba leads former governors to confab Ayodele Ojo

F

ormer governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba, has been nominated to lead former governors to the National Conference.

In the letter of nomination obtained by New Telegraph which was signed by the chairman of the Former Governors Forum, Senator (Dr.) Jim Nwobodo, Osoba will

9

l Seek end to bloodletting, abductions

EFCC re-arraigns ex-Aviation Minister, Fani-Kayode Joseph Jibueze

NEWS

lead other six governors to the conference taking off on March 10.

Nwobodo said: “In accordance with the guidelines released by the Federal Government on the proposed National Conference, the Former Governors' Forum met and unanimously approved the delegates to represent the body and Nigerians at the Forum.

are future leaders of the country.

They expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in the North East part of the country, particularly, the senseless killings of innocent children in the Federal Government College Yobe, and the abduction of 25 girls from their schools in Borno.

The women called on the federal government to quickly find lasting solutions to the bloodshed.

They also requested that government compensate victims and survivors of the bloody attacks.

According to them “We are calling on the Boko Haram sect to cease the unnecessary destruction, wanton killings and abduction of citizens”, adding that “all Nigerian citizens should continue to pray for our beloved country, knowing that whether North, South, East or West, we are one and what affects one affects all.”

57.1%

The literacy rate of Nigeria.

Source: worldfactsandfigures.com

11

Spokesperson for the protesting women, Mrs Ronke Ojefere, on behalf of Laila Saint Matthew Daniel, National/ Initiator Ancore, said “We embarked on this protest because when there is violence anywhere in our society, it affects the Nigerian woman; their husbands are killed and their children are taken away from them…”

“Our mourning them today is our sign as moth-

The number of internet service providers (ISP) in Nigeria in 2000.

Source: worldfactsandfigures.com

ers; we are moving to specific points to say that we are tired of these killings and our children are supposed to be our leaders.

Mothers are not supposed to be burying their children, they are supposed to bury us...”

Also, a former Women Affairs Commissioner in the state, Mrs. Florence Igbinegie, said, “All these women are from Edo State and from various organizations and groups. Nobody is sponsoring this body. "

100,000

The total number of internet users in Nigeria in 2000.

Source: worldfactsandfigures.com

L-R:Managing Partner, SIAO, Mr. Ituah Ighodalo; Chief Executive Officer, Prima Garment Africa, Mr. Lolu Akinwunmi; Chief Operating Officer/General Manager, Cutler Communication, Ms. Laura Oloyede and Chief Executive Officer, Business School Netherlands in Nigeria, Mr. Lere Baale, during a Public discourse on job creation, entitled: ‘Harnessing Entrepreneurial Skill, Promoting Entrepreneurial Education’ held in Lagos…yesterday.

PHOTO:SULEIMAN HUSAINI

Why there are many abandoned road projects in the North – Onolememen PROJECTS

Insecurity and Shortfall in budget allocations Dayo Ayeyemi

M

inister of Works, Mike Onolememen, has blamed insecurity and shortfall in budget allocation for the increase in the number of abandoned road projects in the North-Eastern and

North-Western geo-political zones of the country.

The minister stated this while refuting allegations that the Federal Government and the Federal Ministry of Works are at loggerhead with some state governments, resulting in the abandonment of federal road projects in their states.

According to a statement signed by one of his spokespersons, Mr Idris Bosuwa, yesterday, the

minister disclosed that the reason there were many abandoned road projects in the North-Eastern part of the country was because of the difficulty in mobilizing contractors to the various project sites due to security challenges in the region.

Besides, Onolememen noted that the ministry was allocated N128.244 billion in the 2014 budget, a shortfall of N62.6billion from what it got in 2013,

explaining that it would, therefore, be difficult for the ministry to embark on new projects. Rather, he said, the ministry will continue with ongoing road and bridge projects across the country.

He, however, hinted that the dualisation of the Ninth Mile-Ajaokuta and ObajanaAbaji-Lokoja road sections I and II were some of the road projects the ministry would complete as scheduled this year.

10 NEWS

POLITICS

NDLEA links rise in drug abuse to politics Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

T

he National drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), yesterday, disclosed that it seized a total of 1.2 tons of hard drugs from some 164 suspects during various operations, last year, across Kwara State.

It said that the seizures were from suspects within the state and those in transit.

The State Commander of the agency, Mr. Segun Oke, who made the dis-

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

NDLEA seizes 1.2 tons of drugs in Kwara, warns against attack on officials closure at a press briefing, also expressed concern over armed attacks against officials of the agency, warning that as an agency empowered to use legal force in the course of its duty, it would no longer hesitate to react to future attacks by suspects.

He said that some officials of the agency were attacked and severely wounded in the course of the operations by suspects, adding that the agency had decided not to allow such development to re-occur. “We are not

going to fold our arms; we are backed by law to use legal force during our operations and we have now come back from our injury and back to the task”, he said.

Oke listed the seizures to include, 351, 1.79 and 807 kilogrammes of cannabis, cocaine and other psychotropic substances respectively. He expressed concern over the cocaine seizures, saying it was the first of its kind in the state and was discovered at the post office where the courier had gone to collect it.

A breakdown of the suspects arrested by the agency indicated that 149 were males while 15 were females.

The briefing was part of activities earmarked for the 2014 anti-drug abuse seminar by the agency with the theme: ‘The New Legal High Drugs and Its Consequences on Individual, Family and Community.’ It was organised in collaboration with members of Nigeria Association of Patent and Proprietary Medicine Dealers (NAPMED) in

the state.

Oke justified the seminar and alerted of a correlation between political activities and the abuse of some drugs that were formerly not on the list of classifications

Assessment: No respite for Edo teachers EDUCATION Governor insists no going back on teachers assessment tests Cajetan Mmuta Benin

T

L-R: Immediate Past President/Managing Diretor, Kakawa Discount House Limited, Mr. ‘Laoye Jaiyeola; Registrar/CEO, Dr. ‘Uju Ogubunka, and Executive Director, Keystone Bank Ltd/Chairman, Screening & Selection Sub-Committee of CIBN Board of Mentors, Mrs. Yvonne Isichei, during the unveiling of the mentoring programme in Lagos…yesterday

Home builders groan as cement prices hit N1,900 Dayo Ayeyemi

B

arely two weeks after New Telegraph reported that the prices of the various brands of cement in the market might hit N2, 000, they are already selling at N1, 900 in Lagos and Ogun environs.

Expectedly, home builders are unhappy. A market survey by our correspondent who went round cement selling points in Ibafo, Mowe, Arepo and Magboro in Ogun State, and Ketu, Ikeja and Agege areas of Lagos State, shows that Dangote and Lafarge

cements are selling for N1, 900.

But one of the distributors in Magboro, who identified herself simply as Mrs. Justina, said cement prices had already gone up from the depot, disclosing that unlike before, she had to pay N1.25million for 600 bags of cement apart from offloading charges. She explained that the price of Dangote cement was the first to go up before that of Larfage.

The corollary effect is that block makers in these neighborhoods have jacked up the prices of

their products as nineinch blocks are selling for between N150 and N160, while six-inch blocks are selling for between N135 and N140. However, as a result of the increase from N1650 to N1, 900, home builders have continued to condemn the nearly 25 percent price hike.

According to them, the major manufacturers of the products, Larfage and Dangote were not sincere to Nigerians after their claims of maximum installed capacity last year. They stated that there was no reason for cement price hike at this period of the year when the rainy

seasonwasaroundthecorner.

Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Mr. Stephen Jagun, said that it was disappointing that prices of cement had gone up again after much promise by the manufacturers, three years ago, that the prices would come down as they then had maximum installed capacity. Increase in prices at this particular period of the year, he said, would discourage people that would want to build houses, urging government to prevail over the situation.

by the United Nations.

He said that if the agency could seize 1.2 tons of narcotics in 2012, it was necessary for the agency to rise to possible influx of such drugs in an electioneering year.

here appears to be no respite in sight for the Edo State teachers in the lingering face-off between them and Governor Adams Oshiomhole over his government's proposal to make the teachers write assessment tests.

The governor said yesterday that he had resolved that there was no going back on the conduct of the assessment for teachers in the state.

Oshiomhole made the remark when he had a meeting with the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (AUSS) in

Government House, Benin City. He said, “We are not re-inventing or breaking a new ground.

It is not a new chapter that is being opened. We have resolved, and we are firm that the state cannot possibly continue to leave the children in the hands of those who will destroy their future.”

He appealed to the teachers not to see the classroom as a degrading place, urging them to recognize that he has the mandate of Edo people to secure the future of the state.

“It is not an easy task but I have to do it. All I can promise you and I need to repeat it is that, nobody is in a hurry to sack anybody.

If anything, I have directed that they should advertise for more teachers.

We have to break from the past and I know that changes hurt but changes are inevitable”, he said.

NiMET cautions pilots, flight operators on bad weather

T

he Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), yesterday instructed pilots to be careful and take necessary operational measures and safety precautions to plane crash due to some pockets of bad weather that would be experienced in 2014.

The advice is contained in the NiMET ‘Seasonal Rainfall Prediction,’ 2014 edition, just released in Abuja. It advised flight operators to always avail themselves of its daily weather forecasts and alerts regularly issued for

all airports, aerodromes, air strips and helipads.

“Pilots are advised to take additional measures during take-off and landing to avoid weather hazards caused by wind shear, slippery runways and reduced visibility due to heavy rainfall,’’ it said.

NiMet also said that the projected above-normal rainfall in the North-West and inland south could pose threat to road transportation, saying that visibility in storms and poor lightening could cause accidents.

NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

11

Bishops task northern leaders on Boko Haram ADVICE

Clerics decry bloodshed in the North, ask leaders to intervene Dominic Adewole Asaba

C

lerics in Delta state under the aegis of Urhobo Council of Bishops and Elders (UCBE), yesterday urged northern eleders to educate their Muslim brothers that conversion of individuals is a matter of choice, not compulsion.

In its communique issued at the end of its meeting in Delta state, the council lamented that the sect had killed thousands of innocent Nigerians, forcing foreign nationals out of the counry, noting that ‘enough is enough’.

The bishops said the wisdom to curb their onslaught lies in the hands of northern elites.

According to the Council, any disagreement between individual and political groups should not plunge the entire nation into disaster.

The communique, signed by the chairman of the council, Rt. Rev. Vincent Muoghereh and the secretary, Rt. Rev. I.O. Obie, wondered why governors, who were initially in the same political party are now leaving the party.

The group also condemned the ritual killings, selling of human parts as well as baby factories in some parts of the country, describing such as barbaric.

“We have degenerated to a level lower than animals, too bad. Baby factories are reported all over the country, where young girls are camped with few boys to make them pregnant. When the children are delivered, prospective customers pay for the babies and take them for whatever purpose they know.”

Neglect: Ekae community reads riot act to oil firm Cajetan Mmuta Benin

I

ndigenes of oil-rich Ekae community in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State have read the riot act to Pan-Ocean Oil Corporation, an oil-producing firm in the area to either fashion out ways of ensuring peace in the area or leave the community within seven days.

The community, which gave the ultimatum in Benin city yesterday, said if the oil company failed to honour the invitation for a meeting to chart a way forward, they might not take it kindly with them.

In a protest letter to the company and made available to the New Telegraph, the aggrieved indigenes said the oil company, which opened operations in 2013, had promised to meet with community

leaders on its responsibility to them reneged on its promise.

The Secretary General of Ekae community, (comprising eleven villages,) Mr Dickson Asia said, the indigenes of the community are disappointed by the attitude of the oil company, as a result, they had sent another letter to the company, informing it of possible protest, if the deadline given to it expires.

He said the company failed severally to acknowledge their letters, seeking imporved welfare of the people of the community.

"We want qualitative schools, water, electricity, markets, scholarship for our children and empowerment for our teeming youths as well as social security for our elders, among others.”

L-R: Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Social Development and Gender Empowerment, Mrs. Fola Richie-Adewusi; Deputy Governor, Prof. Modupe Adelabu; wife of the governor, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, and others leading a solemn procession of women groups and professional bodies to mourn students of the Federal Government College, Buni Yadi, Yobe State, killed by suspected Boko Haram fundamentalists, in Ado-Ekiti... yesterday

6.7%

The growth rate of Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2012.

Source: Economist.com

10.7%

The inflation rate of Nigeria in 2012.

Source: Economist.com

$7,200

The world’s average gross domestic product (GDP) (2000 est.).

Source: worldfactsandfigures.com

Jonathan should not contest 2015 election, says Yahaya ADMONITION Yahaya urges Jonathan to focus on security rather than second term bid Yuzarsif Alhassan Bauchi

F

or mer De puty Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Yahaya Adamu has urged President Goodluck Jonathan to shelve his presidential ambition in order to

restore his dignity among Nigerians.

Adamu, who made this known to journalits in Bauchi, said the President should rather play advisory roles, instead of seeking re-election.

He said his advice is coming on the heels of the prevailing insecurity bedeviling the country, adding that Jonathan needed to focus attention on how to arrest the insurgency aimed at destabilising the country.

Expressing shock over the killing of innocent school children as well as men and women in

some northern parts of the country, Adamu said the President should forget the advice of psycophants in PDP and find a way to build the country.

“I read in some newspapers that Mr. President will proceeds to his campaign in some parts of the country to seek second term, which made me sad. I preferred Jonathan stepping down and allowingº another person to go than wasting his time to seek for re-election,” he said.

According to his statement, “The level of bloodletting in some

parts of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa has gone beyond expectation and beyond one’s imaginatio. Why should our representatives at the National Assembly, our traditional and religious leaders should keep quiet in the midst of bloodletting in the country’.

“We have representatives doing nothing and my call on them, is to fear God and save the lives of innocent people in the North. God will never forgive them and they must account for whatever deeds they have done,” he said.

Private investors, key to quarry business – Expert Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

A

Calabar-based industrialist, Mr Abiodun Isinkaye has urged Ekiti State government to involve private investors in the quarry business in the state.

Isinkaye, who disclosed

this to newsmen in his home town, said government could maximise revenue accruing from the sector by involving private investors.

"We have huge granite deposits in the state and you can see them in different areas in the state.

We can only maximise the

revenue from the sector, if we involve investors into the sector. This will help boost the internal revenue profile of the state. This can generate revenue of over N3 billion annually,” Isinkaye said.

According to him, all the state government needed to do is to encourage private

investors to open quarry businesses in the state.

Isinkaye, who is the owner of Prosperous Royal Garden and Resort Centre in Ado-Ekiti, also said he committed about N2 billion to establishing the centre, saying he invested the money to boost the economic potential of the state.

metr

NEW TELEGRAPH

www.newtelegraphonline.com/metro

Why I lured FEATURES Editor

abiodun. bello@newtelegraphonline.com

0802 393 8212

Friday,March 7, 2014

Truck rams into building, kills one, injures two

Sales rep, driver arraigned for N6.7m fraud

P

SAD A seven-year-old pupil crushed while returning from school

Clement James Calabar

A

seven-year-old primary school pupil, Gideon Patrick, died when a truck crushed him in Calabar, Cross River State.

In the incident, two other pupils, David Onoyom (4) and Daniel Emmanuel Ekanem, were injured.

The accident occurred on Wednesday when the truck killed Gideon before ramming into a building where it knocked down two other pupils, who are said to be unconscious.

A witness said the truck with registration number XA780TA lost its brake as it descended the Atimbo hill on the outskirts of Calabar metropolis, forcing the driver to swerve into the building opposite the Navy Barracks.

The owner of the building, one Mrs. Emilia Efa, was said to have travelled out of town when the incident occurred.

However, a man who claimed to be her son, Daniel Ita, said he was called by his sister to rush home only to see the accident.

He said: “I can’t understand why this has to happen to us.”

The scene of the accident

Ita said the other two children who were involved in the accident were neighbours.

The parents of Gideon were not available.

Witnesses said the driver, who was handed over to naval officers, shouted “break failure, brake failure,” as the vehicle rolled down the hill before crushing Gideon who was returning from school.

Part of the building was completely destroyed while the injured pupils were rushed to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital

Biodun Oyeleye, Ilorin

ABIODUN BELLO

(UCTH).

But reports say they were unconscious, while doctors on duty were battling to save their lives.

On ground to calm the situation was a police team led by the state Traffic Commander, Mr Ojo Joseph.

Joseph said they were at the scene to ensure peace, explaining that the people had wanted to lynch the driver and his conductor before the Navy personnel intervened.

olice yesterday arraigned a sales representative and a driver at a Senior Magistrates’ Court in Wuse Zone 2, Abuja, for allegedly defrauding their company of N6.7 million.

Those arraigned are Mercy Kaha of new Karu, Nassarawa and a driver, Muazu Mohammed of Airport Road Abuja, charged with joint act, criminal breach of trust and misappropriation The prosecutor, Corporal Udeh David, told the court that Mr Nnamdi Ezeokworah of Plot 2, Shawhay Close, Wuse Zone 1, Abuja, lodged a report against the accused at the Wuse Police Station on February 28.

David said that sometime in April 2013, the complainant employed Kaha as a sale representative at Doc-Dona Investment Limited and she misappropriated goods worth N6.7 million.

He said the accused converted the money to her personal use.

The prosecutor, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), also said that it was later discovered that a driver, Mohammed, was involved in the act.

He said the offence contravened Section 79 of the Penal Code and punishable under Sections 309 and 312.

If convicted, they are liable to nine years in prison each or an option of fine or both.

After the charges were read to them, they pleaded not guilty.

The Magistrate, Mr Aminu Eri, admitted them to bail for N200,000 each with two sureties each.

A

n 18-year-old female student of the College of Technology, Offa, Kwara State, said she lured a colleague to be gang-raped by cult members because she refused to join her cult group.

The suspect, Awotola Mary, who spoke with journalists yesterday during a parade by the police, added that she had also been subjected to a similar fate in the past.

This came on the heels of the arrest, late last month, of three male students from the same institution for a similar offence.

In that case, the students allegedly raped their colleague to a state of coma. One of those accused to have participated in the crime has been remanded at the Federal Prison, Oke-Kura in Ilorin on the orders of a Magistrates’ court.

An emotional Police Commissioner, Mr Ambrose Aisabo, who briefed newsmen on the latest incident at the command headquarters, said if he had his way, he would recommend the temporary closure of the school, given the rape cases being committed on the campus.

At yesterday’s briefing, Aisabo disclosed that Mary, suspected to be a cult member, was arrested on February 22 at Rondo area in Offa where five boys of the same school, believed to

Police arrest man for daughter’s murder EXTREMISM A man is accused of killing his daughter for converting to Christianity after warning a church of consequences of harbouring the girl Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

A

man, simply identified as Isiaka, is now in police custody for allegedly hacking his daughter to death.

The suspect also inflicted machete cuts on some members of an Ibadanbased church, including the pastor, the pastor’s wife and a member.

The wounds, which Isiaka inflicted on his daughter, identified as Kausara, were so severe that she died afterwards.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olabisi Clet-Ilobanafor, confirmed this in an interview with our correspondent.

Officers from the Agugu police station arrested Isiaka when it was reported that he had been threatening the pastor and his wife for harbouring his daughter, who had got

converted to Christianity.

Isiaka was said to have stealthily entered the church around 2a.m on the fateful day and allegedly carried out the dastardly act.

He attacked the pastor, Daniel Oladimeji, his wife, Mary, and one Aanu, before fleeing.

According to the police, none of the members present in the church was able to identify the attacker, who took advantage of the darkness to carry out the crime.

But the people suspected Isiaka because he had on several occasions invaded the church, threatening to attack them if they continued to har-

bour his daughter.

The injured were said to have been taken to a private hospital in Ibadan, where they were still receiving medical attention at press time.

Meanwhile,Kausara’sbodyhasbeen depositedatthemorgueof theStateHospital, Yemetu, awaiting autopsy.

Clet-Ilobanafor disclosed that the Police Commissioner, Mohammed Indabawa, had directed that the case be transferred from Agugu to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Iyaganku, for further investigation.

Hesaid:“Sincethegirl in question is dead; it is now a murder case.”

Oyo State CP, Muhammed Indabawa

CONFAB: Nigeria better off as one entity –MUSA/ PAGE 15 | ‘Ex-govs threatening Senate’s stability’ / PAGE 18

POLITICS Friday, March 7, 2014

NEW TELEGRAPH

newtelegraphonline.com/politics

ayodele Ojo

Deputy Editor, politics

I‘ll run for Ondo governorship again –Ajasin’s daughter

ayodele.ojo@newtelegraphonline.com

ayodeleojo@yahoo.com

p-17

How I escaped death –Nyako Governor Murtala Nyako speaks on an attempt to eliminate him after all democratic means to ease him out of office failed.

IBRAHIM ABDUL reports.

Red card for Abdullahi

O

W

hat was meant as condolence visit last Friday by Governor Murtala Nyako of Adamawa State to victims of Boko Haram attacks in Madagali, in Shuwa community nearly turned bloody as the governor narrowly escaped death.

Nyako believed that the attack on him was actually part of a contrived plot to eliminate him, after unsuccessful bids to ease him out of power through democratic means by those he described as the “evil few”.

“They are after me, but I will not be rattled,” he said while speaking on a radio programme “Taba Kidi Taba Karatu” during the week.

His words: “There is no excuse for whatsoever; we want to know more from the authority. By now, authority should be able to know what is happening. We should be able to know where these arms are manufactured and even the signatures on the weapons. We ought to know who ordered it, who paid for it, how did it come to the country?

Where were they shipped, which port in Nigeria when they arrived, who cleared?

“President, vice president, governors and the military they are the only groups that pass checkpoints without being checked, and which of the two groups is conveying those arms to the scene of this action. We want to know?

“The other aspect is that army withdrew from the checkpoint, before the attack in Yadi –Buni. Who ordered the withdrawal?

We also have a case where General Shuwa was killed by so-called Boko Haram. There are army units there but they didn’t respond during the incident? Who told them not to respond, when Shuwa was being attacked?

“The air force base was raided, there is unit of army nearby, who gave them order not to respond until all the aircrafts were destroyed?

“These are questions that need answers. So, either this thing is controlled by unknown

POLITICAL NOTES

Nyako

fellows, or unknown Boko Haram strategic commanders in the defence system, or staged-managed. We have reached a point; to come out and tell them our displeasure over the way the situation is escalating.”

Nyako was emphatic that the bloody assault by the Boko Haram killings has ridiculed President Goodluck Jonathan’s claim of success against the sect.

Expressing shock over the development, Governor Nyako vowed that he can never be cowed or intimidated by the antics of those he called ‘’the evil few.’’

“I am not perturbed nor rattled by the antics of the evil few whose intention is to cause disharmony in the land. They have just wasted their bullets and scared the people,” he said.

The governor further alleged crass parti-

sanship of soldiers who contribute towards crisis –incitement. “When we came out, the road was blocked by two vehicles and two soldiers came out from them while I was going towards my car, and started shouting they are here. So, I asked them who are they?

“And they said Boko Haram. Before we know, the soldier at the back started firing.

And of course, what we ought to do naturally, is to get out of the scene,” Nyako said.

“About the same time the two soldiers heading our direction were shouting Boko Haram, Boko Haram are coming, we started hearing gun fire.

“My security details quickly had to whisk me away swiftly. In the ensuing pandemonium, some persons coming in the direction of the gunfire were heard asking which vehicle is conveying me.

“The attack was targeted at my life by those who have I believe brilliance is not perfection. failed in their plot I have grown and to use democratic watched you criticize means to ease me regime after regime... out of power,” NyaComparing my ko said. father’s leadership Nyako said the to Boko Haram’s plot to kill him was current reign of terror, is a rather to throw the state cheap shot into crisis.

CROSSFIRE

We are speaking of a man who placed this nation under siege during an unrelenting reign of terror that is barely different from the current rampage of Boko Haram. It is this very psychopath that was recently canonised -Prof. Wole Soyinka

-Sadiq Abacha

nce again, President Goodluck Jonathan has wielded the big stick. He unceremoniously booted out minister for sports, Bolaji Abdullahi, and sworn in 11 others who recently scaled the National Assembly screening exercise.

Abdullahi would definitely have seen it coming. He is the latest victim in the political bickering and horse trading that has pervaded the political landscape recently, resulting in defections to and from the major political parties.

His crime: he is an ally of Senator Bukola Saraki, the former governor Kwara State.

Saraki is spearheading the move by some senators to defect from the president’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC); a move, which if perfected, will tilt the balance of power in the National Assembly, putting the PDP at an insecure position.

In his characteristic mien, President Jonathan took his time in taking action. Many contend that the move was long expected, but then the former minister justified his position with the successes recorded in that sector while he held sway.

One may ask: is the president now contented with members of his cabinet, having flushed out, as it were, all elements of the opposition within the cabinet.

One analyst cynically argued that it would be unwise for the president to continue empowering members of the semi-opposition, given that the elections are around the corner.

After all, there are others who should be empowered and properly positioned to place the PDP at an advantage in their various states.

14 POLITICS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

...On National Conference

Itse Sagay: Restructuring, devolution of powers must top agenda Prof. Itse Sagay (SAN), a constitutional lawyer, is a former Dean, Department of Law, University of Benin

The states should be the one contributing money for the Federal Government.

If you really look at it analytically, the Federal Government is the poorest government. The only territory it has is Abuja, which is not very productive

I

t’s a great opportunity. It’s a very singular opportunity for tackling the major problems of this country, particularly on the issue of federalism, both fiscal and political, and things like resource control. It’s an opportunity for creating a system under which we can exist as Nigerians harmoniously; so that we have a country, but we all have our own autonomy within our own federating unit.

This will ensure that one federating unit is not idle and unproductive just waiting to go to Abuja to collect subvention every month like a civil servant waiting for salary.

That sort of thing is not acceptable.

Let everybody be productive, create your own revenue and yet others were helping, because under the independence constitution, every region had to be productive, had its own economy, and there was a distribution fund, to which everybody contributed 30 per cent. And this distribution fund was spent in favour of those regions which had less natural resources, which made less money.

You should help yourself first. And after that you get help from the more endowed states. Not to be totally dependent.

Not for a Federal Government to take away all the resources of the federating units, and then call them every month, and start giving everybody salary. By

Sagay

that, some people will not do anything at all, because they are sure of this monthly salary from the Federal Government.

You have an unproductive country, one that is not developing, and at the centre there’s a vicious struggle for control because of the amount of excess money swimming there. This is an opportunity to sort all that out.

There is only one no-go area by government, and that is that we should not decide to split. I don’t think it is a big deal. I don’t think anybody wants to go there to say we should separate. But, definitely there has to be restructuring. And there has to be devolution of powers and resources from the Federal Government.

The Federal Government has to be much weaker; we need a much stronger federation to give federating units more autonomy, more initiative. In fact,

instead of the Federal Government being the one to be distributing money every month, it is the states that should be the one contributing money for the Federal Government. If you really look at it analytically, the Federal Government is the poorest government. The only territory it has is Abuja, which is not very productive.

Honestly, if they did only fiscal and political federalism; they should transfer power, not only financial autonomy, from the exclusive legislative list to the concurrent list, so that in many areas now that states are not exercising powers, they can exercise powers in them; railways, electricity, trade unions, then of course they should be able to have their own police forces.

Something like local governments should not feature in the constitution.

Every state should decide how many lo-

cal governments it wants, create them and fund them. Federal government should not be funding local governments; those are ways of siphoning money for lazy people. So, if you want many local governments, then have enough money to support it. It’s isn’t a Federal Government thing. There should be no federation account.

It’s the federation account that is causing so much trouble, now that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) people are now siphoning billions of dollars away without anybody being aware.

Of course, all politicians want to go to Abuja, because that federation account is money used by all states being sent to Abuja. People are killing themselves to be president, to be this and that. If you cannot support yourself then you don’t deserve to be a state.

For the president to forward the outcome of the national conference to the National Assembly, I think it will be a tragedy, because the National Assembly has been very reluctant about true federalism.

If you look at the sort of things they have been suggesting, all the constitutional amendments they have been proposing, they are all moving in the opposite direction; giving themselves more powers at the centre instead of going the other way.

So, the National Assembly is the wrong place to take anything to, unless they give an undertaking that whatever is decided by the conference would not be touched, it will be automatically passed without being modified in anyway.

Interview by Etaghene Edirin

Ralph Obiora: Discussing Nigeria’s break-up unnecessary Chief Ralph Obiora is a chieftain of the defunct National Democratic Coalition (NADECO)

T

he National Conference is a good development. I hope those who are attending would remain focus to produce a constitution that would take care of lots of inconsistencies and dysfunctional behaviours we have in the system. The constitution is the basic thing that guides how a country is governed and it must be really handled with all seriousness, making sure that no ambiguity in the constitution.

The national conference should talk about citizenship right; federalism particularly fiscal federalism, devolution of powers to the regions and states and reducing the power of the central government substantially.

Nations are trying to enlarge their union and trying to incorporate other unions. So, we should work toward how to strengthen the unity of the country. Therefore, disintegration of Nigeria is not a way to go I don’t think the issue of division of Nigeria is necessary because of where we have reached in Nigeria today. Nations are trying to enlarge their union and trying to incorporate other unions.

So, we should work toward how to strengthen the unity of the country.

Therefore, disintegration of Nigeria is not a way to go.

Obiora

On the issue of no-go area in the national conference, I think the Federal Government made a mistake in talking about no-go area during the conference.

I am of the view that all issues should be discussed at the conference, but we must ensure the unity of Nigeria is paramount for us to remain one indivisible country.

I think since the composition of the members of the conference is done by nomination, it is necessary that the outcome of the conference should be subjected to referendum of all Nigerians.

This is a document being presented on their behalf and people should be allowed to decide on what will happen to the outcome of the conference.

It is too early to talk about what will be the effect of the conference on Nigeria. It would be prejudicial to give any prediction about the conference. As a saying goes in my place, it is after the childbirth that we know whether a child is a male or female or even a stillbirth. So, for anybody to think whether the conference would provide answers to all Nigeria’s problems would be pre-empting the outcome. So, let us wait until the conference is done and then we would be able to make reasonable judgement on what has been done.

Interview by Temitope Ogunbanke

POLITICS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

15

...On National Conference

Alhaji Balarabe Musa is a former governor of old Kaduna State and Chairman, Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP)

W

e cannot expect anything different from this National Conference because it is in no way different from previous national conferences that didn’t achieve anything and left many questions unanswered.

So, there is nothing to show that we can expect anything except for issues to be rather worsened.

When I read the communique of the leaders of thought of Yoruba meeting, I can say that their position is unpatriotic and unrealistic. Their stance will be followed by their equivalent in the different regions and we have to be careful in this country about our demands.

For instance, you will expect something similar from the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF); you will expect something similar from Ohaneze Ndigbo and from the South South People’s Assembly. All these groups will not differ substantially from the position of the Yoruba leaders.

The only thing that can save the day is if the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) take a more patriotic and nationalistic attitude, then we can place the regional growth in their possession.

Clearly, we need a dialogue to solve our myriad of problems. But this dialogue was

Balarabe Musa: Nigeria better off as one entity We need a dialogue to solve our myriads of problem but this dialogue was awful and being conducted singlehandedly by one person who can definitely be accused of being part and parcel of the negative state of the nation awful and being conducted singlehandedly by one person who can definitely be accused of being part and parcel of the negative state of the nation, which the conference would discuss. There should be a more national responsibility. I want to advice that we forget our lens and have a national conference organised and conducted by all those responsible for the negative state of the nation. We should stop the blame game; admit that all of us have ruined the country.

If we realise and reject the negative status of the nation then let us all come together to solve the problem. Instead of the president calling for the conference and conducting it single-handedly, we want to

Musa

see the president himself, we want to see Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Chief Justice of Nigeria and representatives of the people of Nigeria who are the 70 million registered voters. If these sets of people can call for a national conference, it would be a truly national conference. But nothing much should be expected from Jonathan’s conference because he ought to have corrected some of the ills. But he has not and yet he is calling for the national conference and we are taking him serious.

For the no-go area, I am not afraid of it.

Let it be there for theoretical reasons. The reality on ground is that all responsible and informed Nigerians have agreed that we are better off staying together even after we have done it for 100 years. We know the alternative of Nigeria’s disintegration even if it is done peacefully. Nigeria will become one of the little banana republics surrounding us.

We will lose the vantage status that we have already established as the largest, integrated and complementary economy in Africa and the whole world. We don’t want to be like these little countries around us that cannot even balance their annual budget without support from their former colonial masters.

Let us settle it in our mind that Nigeria has come to stay as one country and we hope it will continue to be cohesive and united. The USA, UK and other established systems came about the same way Nigeria is coming now. The difference between us and them is that they have made successes through sacrifices. We have not sacrificed for anything in Nigeria. We rely on God and it is good but God said, stand up and I will help you. We have not stood up in the last 100 years, let us now stand up and do it like the USA, UK. It is possible because we are 160 million people of great potential.

Interview by Wale Elegbede

Pius Adesanmi: There shouldn’t be no-go area Pius Adesanmi is a Professor of African Literature and Culture, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada.

We have to go to the basics and address those issues, fix those structural imbalances and take care of the legitimate fears of the minorities

I

t is very clear that there are many burning issues that are bedevilling the Nigerian nation and preventing us from making any progress in this country. So, we have to go to the basics and address those issues, fix those structural imbalances and take care of the legitimate fears of the minorities.

If I had my way, every member of the forthcoming national conference would have to read Obafemi Awolowo’s book on ‘Thought on Nigerian Constitution’ because it is a blueprint for solving our problems and there isn’t any problem we are facing today that doesn’t have solution in that book.

The issue of no-go area about the national conference is part of what is so insulting about Nigeria’s experience. I have been living in the Western World now for almost 17 years. I have lived in France and I was a Professor in the United States and I am teaching in Canada. In most advanced democracies in the world, there are daily contestations of the very essence of

Adesanmi

nationhood. They come to this nationhood thing as an unfinished process. People always come out asking questions. There is a constitutional requirement in the United States that once there is about 2,000 signatures, the President must offer a response.

Those are negotiations. You cannot say there is no-go area. How can some group of people sit down somewhere because this current arrangement work for them and they tell the rest of us that there are issues you cannot discuss? It doesn’t work that way. In fact,

an American will tell you that the right to burn America flag, the right to tear that constitution is guaranteed in the constitution. It is part of the freedom of American citizenship. So, who are you to tell me that I should not discuss some issues if something is not working for me in the current arrangement in my country?

I don’t think they have a choice at this rate because that conference would do best to be mindful of the season of anger. There is so much anger across this country. Some people were critical and sceptical about it at first, because we have been on this path before; any unpopular government would just wake up and declare something. Actually, they have my suspicion because if you look at it, we have elections in February and no Nigerian is question-

ing the rationality of the fact that less than one year to an election, we don’t have clear cut candidates; nobody is coming to you to sell any programmes or any manifestoes. It is so insulting and that is not how citizens ought to be treated. So, I still have a suspicion that this conference diverts attention for the next three or four months and before you know it, what need to be done to guarantee 2015 would have been done.

But that aside, I think the conference participants ought to be mindful of people’s anger and they shouldn’t think that if this conference turns out to be another wasteful exercise and another jamboree, that the anger this time around would be directed only at the conveners, at government.

This time around, it could backfire and even touch them because angry people need solution to urgent and immediate problems. I have been seeing names of those who are going for the conference. Pastor Tunde Bakare is going, Ayo Obe is going. I have seen names that I am comfortable with, especially those from my own constituency. So, I think by and large I am hopeful that this conference would at least deliver on its own promise.

Interview by Temitope Ogunbanke

16 POLITICS

Leading

Woman

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

I’ve been exposed to violence many times –Toyo

Hon. Nkoyo Toyo is a former Nigerian Ambassador to Ethiopia and presently a member of the House of Representatives, representing Calabar/Odukpani Federal Constituency. Toyo, the founder of Gender and Development Action (GADA) in this interview with TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE, speaks on her involvement in politics and how ‘culture of exclusion’ made her to lose the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primaries prior to the 2003 and 2007 general elections.

You are known to be a human rights activist and a leading voice in gender advocacy, what really motivated you to venture into politics?

Having worked broadly with many in the human rights and development sector for almost 20 years, I felt I could share some of that experience in mainstream politics, and I did think and still believe that politics is all about development. So, making the transition from civil society to politics was very natural but it took some time to figure out that the type of actors in politics which I had to engage were different and so a different modus operandi.

How long have you been in politics?

I started in 2002 preparing for the 2003 elections which I contested the primaries.

I have remained active in politics since then. I also contested in 2007 and 2011 elections but lost during my party’s primaries.

What have been your challenges in politics?

Understanding the ‘gatekeepers’ mind set in politics. It simply works like this: you cannot just come into a political party which ‘others’ have built. So, the gate-keeping mind keeps new comers out and discourages them from seeking elective position. They are only welcomed on the terms of the gate-keepers. This trend tends to hurt the development of the party and democracy itself as new thinking and experiences are not readily accessed and the elections tend to circulate around a few with the knowledge of how the party works and the resources and unique political skills to appropriate the structures and decisions of the political party.

Was there any period that being a female politician denied you opportunity of something you would have loved to do?

In politics, exclusionary tactics is the game and as women, the jeopardy is higher. Some of my challenges were that being married to someone from Akwa Ibom State, the issue of where to contest came up and my opponent played on this, saying I should contest in Akwa Ibom and not Cross River, where I come from. Furthermore, they argued that being an ‘outside’ woman I would not be easily open to ‘deals’ and that could affect my willingness to share political patronage. These were views used to stall my support base.

I was also exposed a number of times to acts of violence and would not know whether this was an attempt to intimidate or cause fear. However, I would not conclude that this had anything to do

with being a woman, maybe it is in the DNA of Nigerian politics as men have reported violence too.

How were you able to overcome the challenges?

I refused to be intimidated. I lost both the 2003 and 2007 primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Calabar/ Odukpani Federal Constituency due to this culture of exclusion, not being seen as ‘one of us’ by some powerful interest and not sponsored by ‘one of us.’ My socalled independent personality was an impediment to quick acceptance and assimilation in our type of politics.

Many people are of the view that female politicians do pass through sexual harassment to reach the peak in their political career.

Was there any period you were harassed sexually in your political career?

Being largely an independent-minded politician, coming into politics with a well-known public position on issues was an added value. I got a lot of respect from many of those I met in politics. I believe in politics, sexual overtures can be a problem, if women do not politely decline or distant themselves from events and places that become a source of compromise or unsolicited attention.

What are your low and high points in politics?

When I finally made it to the National Assembly in 2011, I was hoping to be part of creating a strong platform for the enunciation of ideas that will propel the birth of a new Nigeria but as you can see right under our watch, Nigerians are asking for a national conference and there is little hope and believe in the ability of the National Assembly to create the change we need and deserve as Nigerians.

What have been your major achievements in the lower chamber of the National Assembly?

I would say my major achievements are relative. Although I brought a lot of attention to the issue of Bakassi, we still could not get the executive to work with us on the matter when it came up for revision in 2012. I have been a strong voice on women, children and rights issues in debates on the floor. Pushing for the inclusion of gender sensitive clauses in the constitution, particularly as it relates to rights of married women under the chapter on citizenship and the right of women to maternal care are major outcomes. By

Toyo

Sexual overtures can be a problem, if women do not politely decline or distant themselves from events and places that become a source of compromise or unsolicited attention way of motions, I have brought attention to many of the issues afflicting our area.

At committee level, I am very active.

How many bills have you raised on the floor of the House?

All the bills I have raised have been in relation to constitutional amendment. I am also sponsoring one on social welfare practice in Nigeria which at the moment is unregulated. I sadly believe we have too many laws and have been weary of adding more without looking at existing laws and the cost implications for government.

What is your view of the 35 per cent affirmative for women?

If representativeness is about the legislature, the numbers are poor and this needs to change if we are to see meaningful development in Nigeria.

What advice do you have for female politicians?

As women, do identify a few issues and work intensively at them, always having something in your programmes, specifically for women, and remembering that women will be judged and castigated more than a male counterpart that fails.

Therefore, women in politics need to consult widely, seek advice and learn quickly.

Ask yourself always what did others not do well and what’re the lessons for me.

What are the major programmes you have implemented in your constituency?

When I got into this representational role, I had to ask myself: what does it mean? What are the people asking for and what are their needs? I think by far the most pressing demand that I have been inundated with is finding jobs for people and making financial assistance, available to them. To do these, I have to deal with another question: How can I be part of meaningful change.

For me, being a part of change is not about being seen to pass hand-outs, it is about doing what is needful in order to secure better opportunities for the people and the area we represent.

When you are representing a minority community, their sense of exclusion is strong, so one is constantly struggling with bringing opportunities home and taking interests from home into other spaces and positions in order to push their agenda forward.

Our flagship programme is the agricultural business farms and park at Atan Okoyong which brings together training in Agro business, farm development, processing and the entire agriculture value change approach in five areas; poultry, piggery, fishery, plantain/banana and rice. This year alone the project is aiming to reach a minimum of 200 persons with training, plus start off packs and other investments.

My major areas of work have been in education, entrepreneurship development, skills acquisition, agriculture and artisanship development and advancement. Annually we support through scholarship persons in different levels of schooling to the tune of N5 million.

I have taken a lot of projects home in terms of healthcare, building blocks of schools and getting people employed through farming.

POLITICS 17

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Leading

Woman

I‘ll run for Ondo governorship again –Ajasin’s daughter

Mrs. Jumoke Anifowose, the daughter of the Second Republic governor of old Ondo State, Pa Adekunle Ajasin, recalls how she helped built the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the state and was later edged out of the governorship race.

The former Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice shares her experience with TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE

H

aving grown up in a political family, Mrs. Jumoke Anifowose, the daughter of former governor of old Ondo State and one-time Afenifere Leader, late Chief Adekunle Ajasin, is passionate about continuing from where her father stopped. She has been an active participant in Nigerian politics, especially in Ondo State, where her respected father governed in Second Republic on the platform of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN).

Speaking to New Telegraph, Anifowose, former Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice, said she is in politics because she wants a better society.

As a politician, activist and lawyer, she said, “I will continue to support any woman aspiring for any position in Nigeria.”

Jumoke feels happy that her father left a good name for his family. She recalled: “I feel okay growing up in the corridor of power as a governor’s daughter. People come in and out, big and small; important and also nonimportant people in the society. Myself, my brothers and sisters mixed with all of them. It was an atmosphere that was very conducive to my growing up even though there were skirmishes here and there during political campaigns. But we thank God that those skirmishes were not as violent as they are now. So, it wasn’t anything frightful or scaring that one would want to take cover.

“There is no doubt that I would naturally feel happy about it that my father left a good name for us. I think that in Nigeria of today, it is not that easy to follow in that footstep of such a man who denied himself of the comfort of life in order to cater for people. The motto that we gave to the foundation we set up in his name, Ajasin Foundation is; ‘live to serve’ because it is very apt and appropriate because he indeed lived and served the people.

“Even though, some people will think that being a governor they served him, but I want to give credit to many people, particularly people like late Dr. Akerele Adu, who kept on saying till he breaths his last breathe, that Ajasin served them; they didn’t serve Ajasin. Even Chief Bisi Akande in my presence was telling some people that they worked my father to death; they worked him to his grave when they were fighting for this democracy, which all of them are enjoying now. My father lived for the people and served the people and he did it honestly and in a dignified manner without thinking of compensation. He served unconditionally; he didn’t think of what he would take out of what he was doing,” she said.

Having watched how her father impacted on many lives, Jumoke believed that the best way she can serve the people, especially the people of Ondo State is to govern them and impact positively the way her father did between 1979 and 1983.

Her words: “I was chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Ondo State and it came to a point that I wanted to show my ambition, I had to resign as chairman of the party. So, I came out as one of the governorship aspirants in Ondo State and someone was selected or appointed as gubernatorial candidate against 23 governorship aspirants. The leadership decided to appoint or select somebody of their own choice, so there was no primary and there was no way that you could test

your popularity among party members and people of Ondo State. That is exactly what happened, the leadership of the party decided to appoint somebody.

“I didn’t feel good about the process and I told the leadership that I wasn’t happy about the process; it is not something that is hidden. I didn’t feel happy because I worked very hard for the party as the chairman. The morale of the party members was very low at the time I took over as the party’s chairman but over time, the population growth of the party was something that everybody in the state publicly acknowledged because in a ward you may not have more than one or two people holding party meetings. But when I came in and we were travelling all over the place appealing to people, particularly those who were with us before and they went to other parties. We decided to follow them to their homes to appeal to them even those who were not with us. That was how the party became popular in Ondo State that we suddenly had about 30 gubernatorial aspirants and I was the only woman among them.

So, if having worked very hard for the party and I showed my interest in the gubernatorial aspiration and being the only woman too, it would have been one of the things the party would have used to campaign if I was taken as the gubernatorial candidate.”

She stressed that she would have defeated the incumbent Governor Segun Mimiko, who ran on the platform of Labour Party (LP) 100 per cent, if she had been allowed to fly the ACN governorship election in the October 20, 2012 governorship election.

“It would have been 100 per cent victory for me in Ondo State if I had been allowed to represent my party during the election. At least the majority of the women in the state would have voted for me. I know that for sure because they would have wanted a change from the men who have Anifowose been ruling the state to have a taste of a woman for the first time.

“The gender aspect was going on well for me. And my father’s name too, no

I came out as one of the governorship aspirants in Ondo State and someone was selected or appointed as gubernatorial candidate against 23 governorship aspirants

matter what people would say because he served the people of Ondo State very well. I didn’t want to be kind of projecting that but I have come to a stage in my life now that I have to say it that, my father’s good name would definitely have worked for me at that time. Then it would have been 100 per cent, my father’s good name and my hard work. I would have won hands-down against the incumbent. The leaders made a mistake of their life and they lost. They not only lost, they lost good money. I didn’t lose; they lost because they went into the election and lost.”

Like a proverbial saying that if someone fell from a horse, he will aspire to ride on it again, Anifowose said she has not given up in serving the people of Ondo State. She said: “I am still in politics. I will contest again.

When there is life there is hope. Atiku Abubakar, Muhammadu Buhari and others are still trying to contest.

So, if people like that are trying to contest. I will still contest for the position they denied me of, I will contest for Ondo State governorship.”

On why she is passionate about governing Ondo, she said: “It is not very difficult to govern when you are honest about governance to bring back what we have lost in the state. We have lost a lot in the state.

People are suffering, no work, no food. So, in view of that I think I have something to offer the people of Ondo State to alleviate their problems. The roads are bad, there is no water; nothing works. People are complaining and I have so many curriculum vitae of people looking for job with me. Why would somebody have come out of the university since 2004, even far beyond that and not get anything to do? It is not right at all. And why should some people be enjoying what citizens should be enjoying. You are taking your salary and you are also taking what rightly belongs to people through other means, through stealing. All these things would have to stop.”

Speaking on why it has been difficult for Nigeria to have an elected female governor, Anifowose, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain noted that: “It is difficult for women to win governorship election in Nigeria because the man makes the policies. You can imagine that by the time the ACN candidate was being selected or appointed, in the whole room, I was the only female aspirant at that point in time.

There was no woman with them to determine my own fortune to even give me support. They were all male, so it was very daring of me to have confronted them in the first instance. Definitely, many women are coming up but the men are always scuttling it and we will keep on trying until we get there.

It will be possible for a woman to become governor in Nigeria, when you start sensitising the women why they should vote for their own. I was reading one of the quotes of former U. S Secretary of States, Medeleine Albright and she said; ‘There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other woman.’

“Women should not give up because giving up will not help the situation. In giving up, they would not help the younger ones. The young ones will not have role models if they give up. So, I will ask people of my type and age and those coming along the way; who are interested in politics that they should be strong, persevere and make sure that they don’t feel intimidated.”

18 POLITICS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Ex-govs threatening Senate’s stability –Senator Braimoh Former Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, Senator Yisa Braimoh, is worried about the destabilising effect of former governors in the National Assembly. Braimoh, who represented Edo North in the Senate from 2007 to 2011 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), speaks on the stability of the Senate, national confence and insurgency in the North in this interview with WALE ELEGBEDE. Excerpts: Some former governors have recently been in the vanguard of upsetting the majority status of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Senate. How do you see the development?

I have long, before now, expressed serious concern at the rate at which sitting governors, who, in a bid to negotiate their exit from office at the threshold of their constitutionally prescribed two terms of eight years, have gravitated to the Senate for refuge. The trend, from all indications, will continue and will certainly not augur well for the Senate which is seen as an enclave of equals with the Senate President as first among equals.

Once these governors have made up their minds to go to the Senate, it does not matter whether the incumbent senators they seek to replace are doing well and deserving of reelection. They mobilise state machinery to clinch the party ticket and also to win in the general election. Now, the experience has been that these former

Braimoh

governors in the Senate do not contribute to the progress of legislative activities; but rather, they have constituted themselves into some power cult with which they have caused political unease in the Senate. This has been the sad narrative in the past 10 months or thereabout, particularly since the advent of the All Progressives Congress (APC) through the merger of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP), with legislators jostling and threatening to defect from the PDP to the APC. In the Senate, three former governors who served on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform – two from North Central and one from North East zones – have been holding the Senate to ransom, and giving the leadership sleepless nights. They have also become consequential “caucus” leaders in the Upper Chamber irrespective of political party affiliations. The mentality of these former governors is such that they still imagine themselves as being in a position to bark out instructions and manipulate their followers. They do not want to recognise the fact that the Senate is different from the fiefdoms into which governors have converted their states.

At the moment, there are about seven former governors in the 7th Senate and from newspaper reports, about 18 serving governors who are finishing their second term are jostling f o r

the 8th Senate in 2015. The implication of this is that in 2015, about 25 former governors may be in the Senate with their gubernatorial tendencies and dispositions.

My fear is that they may transform into Gubernatorial Senators’ Forum, seek to take over the leadership of the Upper Chamber and use the platform, at their whims and pleasure, to seek to sway political powers in Nigeria like the Governors’ Forum has been doing.

Is there anything wrong with the development? Are they not exercising their rights?

You ask what is wrong with that! I am adverting your mind to the signs of present and clear dangers emanating from the Senate on account of the activities of a group of ambitious former governors whose interest is to take over the leadership of the Senate and deploy the platform to unsettle the administration of the incumbent executive head or president; and you are asking what is wrong with that. You can imagine the Governors’ Forum going wild on the one hand, as witnessed under the leadership of Governor Rotimi Amaechi before Governor Jonah Jang emerged and the Forum became factionalised, and the Gubernatorial Senators’ Forum making its moves on the other hand, both acting in concert to hold the President of the country to ransom. It is better imagined than allowed to happen. My position is that Governors’ Forum is alien to the constitution and should therefore not be allowed to flourish. The Forum should be disbanded. Governors can meet on the platform of National Council of States and not on the platform of a forum that is not constitutionally recognised. The same thing applies to the emergent Gubernatorial Senators’ Forum. It should not be allowed to crystallise. The tendency will pose grave danger to peace, stability and unity in the Senate. It is not as simplistic as you tried to rationalise it in your question. It is not about democracy; it is about threat to stability of the Senate.

How would the former governors be a threat to the stability of the Senate?

Anything that threatens the leadership of the Senate threatens the stability

Former governors in the Senate do not contribute to the progress of legislative activities; but rather, they have constituted themselves into some power cult with which they have caused political unease in the Senate

of the institution of the Senate, especially when you have a leadership that is a binding force in the Senate. Consider the present leadership under David Mark: sharply focused, consistent and persistent as far as observing the standing rules is concerned. He has demonstrated legerdemain in running the affairs of the Upper House. Mark has been able to clear the Office of the Senate President of banana peels. He cannot be faulted on those general matters of administration and legislative acumen. But I consider the planned defection of some senators from PDP to APC as masterminded by two former governors from the North Central zone and another one from the North East zone one of the first steps in the direction of upsetting the leadership of the Senate. Their calculations were that if they defected and were able to secure the majority seats in the Senate, they would effect a change in the Senate leadership. One particularly ambitious former governor from North Central was planning to position himself for the job.

This is the political nuisance that I am against. Serving and former members of the Senate should work together to put down these shenanigans. They should not be allowed to destabilise the Senate with their ill-gotten wealth, with which they would be ready, at all times, to influence and control voting patterns on motions and executive bills. If they are not stopped now and the trend continues in 2015 through to 2019 and 2023, I can only say: God save Nigeria. !

What is your position on the National Conference?

The National Conference has come at a right time. There is the necessity for our people, ethnic nationalities, groups, et al, to talk and that is what the Goodluck Jonathan administration has made possible. I expect that the conference will discuss everything under the sun save the unity of Nigeria, which the government had already listed as a no-go area; and that at the end of the exercise, the outcome will lead to the emergence of a better Nigeria.

Is the Southern region ready to present a unified position at the conference against the backdrop of the resolution at Southern Leaders’ Summit that held recently in Calabar ahead of the conference?

I think it is high time the Southern region began to speak with one voice.

Even at the level of South-South geopolitical zone, there should be unison of position on issues that affect the zone. And to achieve this, we should not dissipate energy and resources in pushing a plethora of groups. We should work towards having one group so that we can effectively speak with one voice. At the Calabar meeting, the issue of harmonizing the positions of the South-South Peoples Assembly and the Southern Leaders’ Forum came up.

I sincerely believe that we should not be talking about unifying positions; rather, we should be talking of unifying the groups into one so that we can have one leadership. Once we have one leadership, we will be able to speak with one voice.

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.

N

19

EDITORIAL

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, February March 7, 2014 28, 2014

Sanctity of Truth w w w.new telegraphonli ne.com

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

FRIday, MARCH 7, 2014

UNESCO’s damning report on education

igeria’s education sector is crisis-ridden, a fact highlighted by the recent United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) report which shows the country’s spending on primary education is lost on poor quality. The damning report, launched on January 29, 2014, and titled “2013/4 Education for All (EFA) Global Monitoring Report (GMR)- Teaching and Learning : Achieving quality for all”, identifies areas in which there are deficits such as, universal primary education, adult education, school enrolment, training of teachers, and gender imbalance in access to education.

The most watched goal, universal primary enrolment – is not realisable as there are more children out of school in Nigeria than in any other country in the world - 10.5 million. Nigeria is now one of only 15 countries that the report projects will have fewer than 80 per cent of its primary school age children enrolled in 2015. Its out-of-school population not only grew the most in absolute terms of any country in the world since 2004-2005, by 3.4 million, but also has the fourth highest rate of growth, showing that the wealth in the country is not trickling down into public social good.

The problem of scarcity of qualified teachers and learning is more

pervasive in the North-West than in the Southern part of the country and affects “the poorest and females and those in the rural areas” the most. For instance, there are 40 million illiterate adults in Nigeria today, only five per cent of the poorest young women are literates, compared with almost 90 per cent of the richest. Only two per cent of poor young women in the NorthWest can read compared with 97 per cent of rich young women in the South-East.

The report also notes that with four years of schooling in Nigeria, less than one in 10 children emerges literate; even after 5-6 years in school, less than 30 per cent will emerge able to read even a single sentence. “Access to education is not the only crisis – poor quality is holding back learning even for those who make it to school,” said UNESCO DirectorGeneral, Irina Bokova, in a foreword to the 11th annual report, which measures progress towards global goals in 37 countries.

Nigeria is shown as having by far the largest gap to fill than any country in the world, noting that between 2011 and 2015, it would need 212,000 primary school teachers, 13 per cent of the global total; and maintaining that at current rates, it will not even be able to fill this gap by 2030.

The report by UNESCO raises very disturbing issues. Last year, Nigeria was said to have the worst

global education indicators even as it lagged behind other African countries. Without mincing words, this is evident in the poor performance of students in WASSCE, GCE, and NECO in the past years.

Clearly, most of the teachers in the country are poorly trained and are not even enough, leaving a huge gap. Several reasons are adduced for this negative scenario starting from the abolition of Teachers Grade 11, A-level and various other decisions that led to the bastardization of the education sector. Teachers are no more recognized as indispensable human resource and the most important element in the educational system. The scrapping of the foremost training institution has had its own devastating effect on the output of teachers. At Teacher Training College (TTC), they were trained to interpret the aims and objectives of education and ensured that children were educated along that line; they also had the opportunity to choose to be teachers and take teaching as a vocation. Not any more.

Teachers Grade 11 certificate was scrapped, National Certificate of Education (NGE) became a minimum standard. Although the National Teachers Institute (NTI) got the nod to train Grade 11 teachers, experts are of the opinion that the institution is not living up to expectation on account of poor funding and other

internal problems. Little wonder, therefore, that some teachers in primary and secondary schools are said to be secondary school leavers who gate-crash into the profession not because they like it, but as a means of livelihood.

There have been incessant policy rollbacks, poor funding, lack of direction, increased quantity with declining quality, infrastructure decay, and poor remuneration. Ministers and Commissioners for Education over the years have been mere political appointees without the technical know-how. Add to this, the national policy on education for many years exists only on paper.

No country can achieve meaningful socio-economic, political, technological, and cultural advancement without solid educational investment in its citizens.

Succinctly put, human capital is key to improvement in education and development.

The federal government has continued to relegate education. It is time to revamp teaching policies and redouble efforts to ensure marginalized and disadvantaged learners are beneficiaries even as government must expedite action to train and re-train teachers as well as provide incentives to attract people who want to take teaching as a vocation. “The teachers deficit” is an obstacle to reaching the internationally – agreed Education for All and MDGs; and must be addressed.

BOLAJI TUNJI Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief IKE ABONYI Deputy Managing Director FELIX ABUGU Managing Editor, South SULEIMAN BISALA Managing Editor, North GABRIEL AKINADEWO Editor, Daily LAURENCE ANI Editor, Saturday EMEKA MADUNAGU Editor, Sunday LEO CENDROWICZ Bureau Chief, Brussels MARSHALL COMINS Bureau Chief, Washington DC SAM AMSTERDAM Editorial Coordinator, Europe EMMAN SHEHU (PhD) Chairman, Editorial Board BIODUN DUROJAIYE News Editor PADE OLAPOJU Production Editor TIMOTHY AKINLEYE Head, Graphics ROBINSON EZEH Head, Admin.

20

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

OPINION

A

bout this time in 1976,General Iliya Bisalla was so sure of life despite his detention at the Kirikiri Maximum prisons. And that was before driver Mathew Nga spotted Lt. Col. Bukar Suka Dimka on his bus in Abomega.

Dimka was arrested by policeman Jika Iya, flown to Lagos. It was his word against Bisalla's. On March 11,Bisalla,was executed by firing squad for treason. The Head-of-State Gen. Murtala Mohammed had been assassinated on February 13, 1976.

Bisalla was Defence minister under the Murtala Mohammed regime. The Military tribunal that tried the plotters had one Lt. Col. Mamman Jiya Vatsa as secretary. He would later rise to the position of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

On March 5, 1986, Vatsa faced the bullets, for the same reasontreason. That was just ten years after Bisalla. Both died in Lagos, the former at the Bar Beach, the latter in Kirikiri. Two generals, two different plots, supposedly against friends.

Bisalla and Vatsa had so much in common, even without knowing it. Bisalla was killed following the death of his military course mate, Murtala.

Vatsa died on allegations that he wanted to oust his course

Viewing Vatsa via Bisalla

mate, Ibrahim Babangida. All four were active during the Civil War. Two as Divisional Commanders, the others as Battalion Commanders.

Bisalla and Murtala were at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst between 1959 and 1961.Also part of that Intake 27 were Ibrahim Bata Malgwi Haruna and Mohammed Shuwa. As Colonels during the war, Bisalla became a GOC[General Officer Commanding] just as Murtala stepped aside after the River Niger tactical blunder.

Vatsa became a Cadet of the Nigeria Military Training College [NMTC] Kaduna same day as Babangida, on December 10,1962.Ted Hamman, Garba Duba and Ozoemena Igweze were part of the course.

All were commissioned Second Lieutenant in December 1963.During the crisis, Babangida fought in Uzuakoli as Battalion Commander. When he

was injured, Vatsa was drafted as replacement.

Bisalla was a minister in his friend's government and was executed for plotting against the same friend. That also was Vatsa's lot. Both were shot in Lagos.

The duo hailed from the North Central geo-political zone. Really not much difference between Iliya and Jiya. Bisalla died in March 1976,Vatsa in March 1986.

Bisalla's friend, Murtala married Ajoke from the South.

Vatsa's buddy, Babangida went for Maryam Okogwu also from the South. Murtala named his first child Aisha,that is also the name of Babangida's first baby. Murtala ascended the throne in 1975,Bisalla was shot in 1976 . Babangida came in 1985,Vatsa was killed in 1986.Murtala was succeeded by a Yoruba from Abeokuta.

Babangida handed over to another Yoruba from Abeokuta.

Thirty-eight years ago, we

lost Bisalla. Vatsa left 28 years ago. Honestly, there is so much between them that history cannot wish away.

Even at the point of death, Bisalla maintained he could not have plotted against his course mate. As Monsignor Pedro Martins offered last prayers, the Defence minister's last words were "I was to be set free yesterday but for this boy Dimka who implicated me. God knows I knew nothing about it. Allah Sarki[God is King]".

Last words mean so much.

There were insinuations that Bisalla's grouse with Murtala was the elevation of Yakubu Danjuma to the position of Army Chief with the rank of Lt. General. In today's setting, the Defence minister is senior to all Service Chiefs. If that was Murtala's reasoning, it was ambiguous to have promoted the Chief -of -Army staff above his boss.

"I have never nursed ambitions that are not in conformity with the law. This will not be my final hour. I have God's promise on that," Vatsa told the Gen. Charles Ndiomu Military Tribunal that condemned him to death.

Vatsa also thought so much about his family. "May I appeal to you, that by the time you finish with me, I am afraid, my children will forever be afraid of the system." Tied to the stake and ready for the bullet, he was said to have given his gold wristwatch to one of the soldiers on duty for onward delivery to his wife, the Efik woman Sefiya.

She never got it.

However, those who blame Babangida for not saving his friend, are as many as those who say Babangida turned a blind eye when Vatsa's first daughter was alleged to have murdered a farm hand in their Kaduna farm.

Whatever affected Bisalla and Vatsa, has also affected Nigeria. Bisalla's first daughter is today married to a Yoruba, just like Murtala. The Gbajabiamilas can tell better.

Not many know that just as Babangida has in-laws in Delta State, Vatsa had step children not very far away from Asaba.

Sefia was first married to an Ebu-Mordi from Ebu in Delta State.Though in the Igbo speaking part,Ebu people speak a dialect of the Igala language.

NBA 2014: The integrity question Olumide Akinjide

A

s to be expected, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has over the years emerged as the conscience of the nation, coming in at critical moments to provide direction whenever the integrity question is at stake in national discourse.

Besides, many of the famous legal practitioners in the country acquired their popularity in the quest for justice for the common man as well as for their vocal stand on human rights issues.

Since our nascent democracy berthed in the country in 1999, lawyers, alongside journalists, and some intellectuals have stood side by side to keep the governments in line. They have also been in the vanguard of campaigns against impunity and electoral malpractices as well as the seeming lack of integrity at the highest levels.

Therefore, it is disturbing that some of the ills associated with Nigerian politicians are fast crawling into many influential Nigerian professional bodies such as the NBA. This became more noticeable after the last election of the body, where Okey Wali was elected as there were complaints of rigging and electoral

malpractices which dogged the election.

The brouhaha which the election threw up caused many individuals and groups including Rule of Law Alliance to call for a probe of the polls.

It does appear as if nothing was done as the allegations of election malpractices were swept under the carpet, just it is often done in the larger society. Perhaps, this is why the situation appears to be cropping up again.

At the moment, four senior lawyers, all of them SANs are gunning for the Presidency of the NBA in this year’s election slated for July in Calabar, Cross River State. They are Mrs. Funke Adekoya SAN, Chief Niyi Akintola SAN, Dele Adesina (SAN) and Austin Alegeh SAN. Adekoya, Akintola and Adesina are from the South West where the position is zoned to, while Alegeh is from the Mid-West.

The process for the emergence of a consensus candidate for the South West was put in motion last year by the Egbe Amofin- lawyers when they gathered on Saturday, August 17 in Abeokuta, Ogun State for their regular meeting.

By NBA arrangement, 2014 is for the

South West to produce the national president of the bar. Consequently, whoever emerges as President of the association will play a very significant role in the history of the country, as 2015 general election approaches amidst threats of Nigeria’s break-up.

It was against this background that members of Egbe mobilised for the Abeokuta meeting, which held at the home of the Chairman of the NBA, Abeokuta branch Mr. Adebayo Ayodele.

Leader of the group, Chief Bamidele Aiku asked for the nomination of members for a committee that will screen contestants. After some commotion, members were nominated and included Duro Adeyele SAN (Chairman), Muyiwa Akinboro (Secretary), Alhaji Lekan Yusuf SAN, Abiodun Owonikoko SAN, Owoseni Ajayi, Segun Onakoya and Banke Olagbegi.

This then, is the crux of the matter which raises the one million dollar question: is integrity no longer part of the NBA? When has financial inducement become the norm in NBA politics just like the general elections in Nigeria which has been receiving worldwide

condemnation? Is it the matter of kettle calling the pot black?

The genesis of the crisis began at the setting up of a Screening Committee led

by Abuja-based lawyer, Chief Duro Adeyele (SAN) to assess the candidates and report back to it. The committee was embroiled in crisis following an attempt to replace one of its members who resigned.

While the camp of the allegedly adopted candidate was said to have kicked against the nomination of Mrs. Toyin Bashorun to replace the member on the grounds that she was an employee of a leading female contender said to be favoured by most of the branches, Aiku was said to have held his ground as the charge could not be substantiated with any evidence.

A group with lush funds has been buying up the branches in order to impose its wish on the group, among other contending forces. Since the position has been zoned to South West, no other zone can field any other candidate. Against this background, the question is, why not let everybody go and test his or her popularity, just like in the 2012 elections?

What are some people afraid of ? *Akinjide is an Abuja-based public analyst

OPINION

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

21

2015: Imperative of paradigm shift Chris Okotie

D

ifficult circumstances often create paradigm shifts, whole new frames of reference by which people see the world and themselves and others in it, and what life is asking of them.—Stephen R. Covey.

Power shift was the tactical response of the Pan-Yoruba Cultural-Political establishment, Afenifere, to the military’s annulment of the June 12, 1993 Presidential election, which was won by one of their sons, Chief M.K.O. Abiola. The awkward mismanagement of that crisis almost plunged this country into chaos. That period was, indeed, a watershed in our tortuous journey to this present democratic dispensation.

Afenifere’s strident, but subtle campaign created a unique situation where the north conceded the presidency to the South West in the first general elections of the Fourth Republic, to atone for the sins of the northern generals who denied Abiola his hard-won victory. Thus, to a large extent, “power shift” achieved the ultimate objective of rotational presidency, to give a sense of belonging to all ethnic groups in the country.

The power shift arrangement, now called “zoning”, is an ingenious invention of our politicians; it is not in the constitution. Ironically, although power shift served its purpose in 1999

because it saved a badly divided polity from boiling over, there’s now a reverse agitation in the ruling PDP to return the presidency to the north. As we can see, after about a decade and half of the power shift experiment, this game of musical chairs is not the solution to Nigeria’s deeper problems of development. In this dispensation, power has shifted back and forth the River Niger while the country remains stranded in a vicious circle of predatory politics, corruption and unbelievable poverty in the midst of unprecedented income from petroleum products, which is our major revenue earner.

If this is the testimonial of our 15 years of democracy, then we need a paradigm shift. And no time is more auspicious than now, when a new time table for the 2015 general elections has been released by INEC. A shift in the governance paradigm is the most viable option, if we hope to pull this country out of the abyss, and launch it on to the path of development in a way that will give active purpose to our constitutional democracy. What is being advocated here, as in most of my syndicated write-ups in several newspapers and social media platforms in the past one year is a directional shift in the style of leadership, to create a radically different template of governmental service delivery for the benefit

Paradigm shift is making sacrificial leadership the focal point of governance and the quest for power of the masses.

Paradigm shift is making sacrificial leadership the focal point of governance and the quest for power, not the pursuit of power as a route to easy wealth, riding on the wings of religion or ethnic sentiments.

We must begin to measure leadership success on the basis of how well the masses are doing, the quality of our national infrastructure, the quality and quantity of graduates from our schools, the standard of our health care institutions and transportation system, among others.

Paradigm shift is the sine qua-non for the evolution of any modern state, and is at the core of the transformation of many Asian Tigers into the emerging markets that they are today.

Such sound leadership paradigm has made Mexico, a peer nation of Nigeria, the world’s fifth largest exporter of automobiles, while we remain a net importer of tokunbo vehicles and fully built cars from around the world, including Dubai, our country’s latest

shopping destination. What a shame!

Any change is a difficult process, like Covey pointed out in the opening quote. But there can be no gain without pain. In our peculiar situation, we are experiencing pains without change.

This is the great challenge of 2015: How to change the paradigm for the better so that our pains could bring great gain.

Out of concern for what some perceive to be the difficulty in managing Nigeria because of its size, balkanisation of the country is being quietly advocated as the panacea to our problems of development.

This opinion is misguided. Those who hold a contrary view should look in the direction of the world’s newest country; South Sudan where the power rivalry between the President and his deputy has exploded into a war after separating from the North. Thank God we are not heading in that direction.

Therefore, what is needed urgently is a paradigm shift anchored on change from the top to the bottom of our governance hierarchy. The 2015 general elections is a rare opportunity for Nigerians to dislodge politicians of fortune from power and replace them with a new set of purpose-driven leaders who will prioritise people over power and resource control. *Rev. Chris Okotie, a presidential aspirant wrote from Lagos.

Concrete issues at the national conference (2) Felix Oragwu

T

he following federating units or zones are recommended for consideration to reduce the current high cost of governance in Nigeria. However Nnationalities can opt to move over to any federating unit or zone, within contiguous location, they prefer, namely: (i) North West Nationalities made up of the following States, namely, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa, (ii) North East Nationalities made up of Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, Borno, Adamawa and Taraba, (iii) Mid-Belt Nationalities made up of Niger, Plateau, Nassarawa, Benue, Kwara, and Kogi (iv) South West Nationalities made up of Lagos, Ogun, Oshun, Oyo, Ondo and Ekiti, (v) South East Nationalities made up of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi,Enugu and Imo, (vi) South -South Nationalities made up of Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Cross River State, Delta and Edo States.

4: The new constitutions from the conference: The federal (central) government and the federating units, respectively: Each level of government should write its own constitution embodying the agreed negotiated terms of union, spelling out the rules of good governance.

Federal (central) government has only a capital territory and federating units or regions have and control the geographical space within their respective domains. Each constitution should deal with the rules of good governance, including that of the capital territory under the federal government, and the local governments under the federating units or regions, and should cover the respective legislature,

judiciary, civil service, the policing of the respective federation and the federating units or regions, the system of government presidential or parliamentary in each tier of government, the enforcement of the citizenship rights to be policed and controlled by the Federal (Central) Government etc. , as may be agreed at the Conference. One major shortcoming in the PAC Report is that it did not address (a) the New Structure of the Federation and (b) the Rules of good Governance for the agreed Structure, and that is the beauty of the UK Treaty of Union which I believe should be available for consultation during the National Conference. All the PAC did, and quite wrongly, is to assume that the status-quo Structure and Responsibilities of the Federation (Federal Central) Government and the Federating Units or Regions, and to recommend the distracting discussion of the consequences of the bad 1999 Constitution such as endemic corruption, conflicts of ethnicity, insecurity, educational collapse, joblessness and pervasive poverty, which are the result of faulty 1999 Constitution.

5: Recommended Cardinal Focus of Delegates at the National Conference: The Delegates at the National Conference should have their Focus, energy and concentration directed to the determination of the following fundamentals of Nationhood, namely: (i) the acceptable Structure of the Federation that guarantees and ensures a harmonious, united, compassionate, and caring Nation where all the Citizens love the Nation and are prepared to “die a little” for the good of the Nation and all its Citizens, (ii) Sustainable and sufficiently viable and strong Federating Units or Regions, (iii) The Rules of good Governance that can sustain

the Federation in peace, harmony, equity and real socio-economic progress, which have over the years eluded Nigeria. The existing 1999 Constitution is entirely hopeless as a sustainable Constitution of distinct and disparate ethnic Nationalities such as Nigeria because it has failed to sustain Nigeria as a Nation, living harmoniously in unity, peace and progress and which makes its amendment not only a hopeless and unnecessary exercise but also totally counterproductive and a waste of effort and should be disregarded. and (iv) For a true and voluntary Federation of ethnic and religious diversity like Nigeria, in which no ethnic Nationality (large or small) is willing and ready to lose its identity and or to be under the control of any other ethnic Nationality no matter how large or powerful, making the existing 1999 Constitution in the light of Nigeria’s current challenges and travails ravaging the country since the end of Civil War an unworthy Constitution.

6: Financing System for the Federal Republic of Nigeria: The Conference should adopt the stipulations for financing the Federation as is in the 1952-1965 Constitutions which states as follows, namely: (i) Each Federating Unit or Region should contribute 50% of her export revenue derived from the Unit or Region to a distributive pool for all Nigerians and keep 50% exclusively to itself but Federal (Central) Government which has no land resources for economic and industrial production activities but only a Capital Territory should contribute nothing and should also keep for itself the personal income tax derived from all Nigerians working for the Federal (Central) Government.

FAMILY AFFAIRS Page 22, FRIDAY, MaRCH 7, 2014

Our home or their house?

I

t was about 20 minutes after 11p.m, and my husband was still in the living room chatting with the latest visitor at the villa; his younger sister. Really, that would not have been an issue, if not that twice I called him on phone (from the room) and on both occasion, he refused to pick his call.

I later sent a text message, reminding him in case he forgot the following day would still be there for them to continue with the discussion. Still there was no response.

As if that was not enough to get me angry, I went to the living room sat down by his side, and made as if to whisper into his ear. But he shrugged away, held my hand and said ‘darling, I got your text message, but could you please excuse us while we sort out some family issues?’

I left of course. But truth is, I also had things I wanted to discuss with him about our immediate family, and this same sister of his had been in our house for over four days. It is just that she has a habit of never disclosing when she would leave, but it was not as if she was leaving the next day.

Well, after waiting till about 1a.m, and it became clear I could no longer stay awake, I surrendered to sleep. About 4a.m, when I stretched out, I noticed my husband has slipped in beside me, but was still fully clothed; even to his socks. Poor him, he must have just strolled in, and landed straight on the bed.

At that, I could not sleep again. I gazed at him from head to toe, and felt he was not being firm enough with his siblings. He could have just spent some few minutes with his sister, considering the time of the day, and continued the discussion some other time.

Severally, I have had to remind him that we (the children and i) now come first, but he seems to forget that often. He would tell me ‘dear, but you have me always, while they only come here once in a while.’

Yes, ‘Once in a while’ but a month hardly passes at the villa, without one of them showing up. It got so bad at a time that I was left with the task of caring for my husband, our children, and his father who was around to see his ophthalmologist. His sister who was also around at that time would only eat, watch T.V, receive guests, and sleep.

At 5:00a.m as usual, we were all up for family prayer, but my sister-in-law was either still sleeping, or too lazy to come out and join in the prayer. Later, as I was getting the children ready for school, I felt joining my hubby in his car to work would afford us time to talk things over. My husband volunteered to drop the children off at school, but warned me to be ready before he returned, or he would leave without me.

And because I did not want that, I began to rush things up; pack the children’s lunch,

NEW TELEGRAPH

www.newtelegraphonline.com/familyaffairs

PRINCESS ODUN OKE

WOMAN EDITOR odunayomitide2010@gmail.com 0909 124 6811 (sms only)

Attention guys!

T

here is a new page coming up next week dedicated to Parenting from the fathers’ angle; it is called THE SUPER DAD’s page.

This will be showcasing a dad per week, and all the dads will be brought together at the end of every quarter; where the dad whose child’s story is ranked as best (most inspiring) will be honoured with the NEW TELEGRAPH, SUPER DAD’s prize for the quarter.

Do you think your dad is qualified for this honour? Then send in your story of 1,200 words minimum, attached with at least two clean, sharp and clear photograph of your dad. You could include one with you, or with the entire family.

Requirement for entry • You must be between age 15 and 25.

• A student, Youth corper or working class young adult. their aunt’s, brought out pepper from the freezer and all that.

In short, till we left the house at about 9:00a.m, she did not bother to come out. I had a good discussion with my husband on our way to work, and as usual, he told me to ignore them all, that the house was mine.

I closed early from work that day, majorly because I did not go in my car, and again because my husband promised to send a driver from his office to get me home. Getting inside the villa, my sister-in-law was not home to open the main entrance for me, but thank by God, I went with a spare bunch of keys.

On entering the kitchen, the place was in a total mess. The sinc packed with plates, the pepper I brought out in the morning pushed to one side, the living room was equally a sight to behold; with the head rest pillows thrown all over the place.

I called on the gardener who told me my sister-in-law went out with a friend. That was I noticed one of the cars (mine) has left the compound. But really, was there any need asking questions again? I shook my head and went back inside.

Part of my daily routine is to pick the children from their after-school centre on my way from work. But that day I could not, because I did not go in my car, and I also did not want to let the driver who brought me into such personal details. So I planned to blend the pepper, put it on the cooker to boil while my sister-in-law kept an eye on

‘Several times, I have had to remind him that we (the children and i) now come first, but he seems to forget that often

it, and quickly dash off to bring the children home.

But that plan was altered, as my car had been taken out, and I do not drive the family car which is rather too big for me to handle, or the Hilux which was just brought in that week. Anyway, I had dismissed the driver before I discovered that, so I was left with no option than to call a taxi.

As if all that was not annoying enough, I came back at around 7:30pm, and my sisin-law still had not returned. I did all the washing, clearing and cooking alone, and ensured that the children had dinner on time. Taking them to the bathroom, the doorbell rang; I had to be careful with the children because they were already drowsy, so I did not get the door on time.

It was obvious my sister-in-law was angry; though she managed a greeting. But to my amazement, she made no mention of my car; instead she went straight for the food on the dinning. I walked away as if nothing was wrong. By the time I came out from the children’s rooms, she had also left for the room; leaving the used plates in the sinc. I mean, can you imagine!

I knocked on her door, but there was no response, so I peeped in. There she was on the bed talking with someone on phone, while biting into a big chicken’ lap. As soon as I entered, she cut off the conversation and said to me ‘anything?’

I moved into the room, sat beside her on the bed and began to talk. Explaining how we could live in love and unity, but she cut me short screaming, ‘can’t I be free in my brother’s house again?’ All attempt to explain to her that it was equally my home failed, as she insisted her brother’s house was also their own. More so they were there in his life before me.

The question now is, between their house and our home, which comes first?

Rules • Make your father’s profile your starting point.

• List some of the special things he did, or still does to assist your Mom in Parenting.

• His influence on you as a child, and now as a young adult.

• Bring out a quote from your story, which will stand as your strong point to ensure your dad qualifies as the SUPER DAD for that quarter.

Note • Selection of story for each week will not just be on first come, first served basis, but on other points like; good write-up, quality of pictures, and strict adherence to the rules and regulations.

• There will be a final selection at the end of the year, where the quarterly winners will be brought together, and one will emerge as the NT SUPER DAD of the year.

• The overall prize to be won is fantastic, and there will be a well-covered award ceremony.

If your dad is caring and loving, always there for the family, then he deserves to be celebrated. So hurry, start sending your stories now!

LIFE

NEW TELEGRAPH

www.newtelegraphonline.com/metro

23

ABIODUN BELLO FEATURES Editor

abiodun. bello@newtelegraphonline.com

0802 393 8212

FRIday, MARCH 7, 2014

Scavengers at the dumpsite

Igando dumpsite: Stench, illness, the residents’ lot Despite odour, filth, health challenges, living around Igando landfill is expensive, writes Tunde Osowe

L

iving in some areas in the Lagos metropolis can be stressful and nauseating, especially because of the hectic gridlock.

But living in some others can be hellish.

This is actually the fate of thousands of people living, trading or working around Igando axis of the metropolis.

And this is because one of the largest dumpsites is located in the area.

There are many dumpsites that dot the length and breadth of the metropolis.

These sites, despite the horrific odour that usually pervades the areas, have been home to hundreds of scavengers, who try endlessly to outdo one another in search of recyclable materials.

Residents of the areas as usual always have different tales to tell about their ex-

periences.

The terrible stench and toxic fumes that continuously ooze out of these sites can be likened to the sea tempest. This reminds one of what life in these areas could be, particularly when the odour is at its peak.

This is particularly true of the Olusosun dumpsite at Ojota.

Ironically, beautiful edifices and other architectural masterpieces that are springing up around the Igando dumpsite have only succeeded in painting the picture of affluence in a hazardous environment.

This clearly attests to the submission of a retired soldier, Mr Nicholas Ushie,

who resides in the area.

He said: “Can you imagine what it means to be in the house, yet you dare not open your window for a few seconds, regardless of the heat?

“Even when the windows are locked to prevent polluted air from gaining access, that is like chasing shadow. This is because the closed windows cannot even guarantee safety or prevent the stench from penetrating.”

The increase in waste generated, especially in a city like Lagos with its ever increasing population, is an unavoidable challenge. The question, however, lies in how such situation is managed – all for human habitation.

Despite this painful situation, the house rents are skybound. A standard three-bedroom flat goes for between N350,000 and N400,000, while a self-contain apartment is between N85,000 and N100,000 depending on the structure

Medical experts have over the years warned against living around landfills.

Despite these warnings, and the known inherent health hazards, people still find their way near these ‘waste chambers’.

The case of middle-aged woman (names withheld), who until her unfortunate situation, was working with a company situated on Igando – Lagos State University (LASU) Road, Igando, was pathetic.

According to the woman’s account, who now runs a private business, life at the area is worthless.

She said visitors to the place, after perceiving the terrible odour, used to warn her about the inherent danger in staying longer than expected in such an environment.

But the fear of the unknown did not allow her to quit the job early enough.

Having worked with the company for almost a year and half, she fell ill.

Initially, she became a regular visitor C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 2 4

24 LIFE C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 3

to pharmacists who regularly prescribed drugs for her. Despite the several prescriptions, there was no improvement. To make matter worse, no known name was given to the health problem that was troubling her.

For reasons best known to her, she opted to go for private treatment, having done a series of laboratory tests to ascertain her actual health status and the enormity of damage done to her body system.

She said: “When I was finally down and bedridden for months, I was deserted completely. Even the company I worked for did not help either. It got to a point that after a while, whenever I belched, I would perceive one terrible odour similar to the one from the landfill.

The odour from my urine was also similar to it. It was at that point the reality of what people used to tell me about the place became evident.

“In fact, only the grace of God saved me from the terrible ailment.

This is because I could not afford going to hospital for better treatment. All I could do was to manage what I was left with.

“As far as the company is concerned, my case was not the only one. That is because there had been other cases of abuse, accident resulting in severe damage, injuries, and sometimes death. I had to resign my appointment the moment my health condition improved.”

The woman added that all entreaties to get the management of the company comply with best practices, in terms of provision of incentives and other health facilities to cushion the effect of the terrible odour from the landfill on workers, fell on deaf ears.

The woman, however, called on relevant government agencies to take appropriate measures to ensure that companies operating in the country adhere strictly to safety rules and regulations.

This, according to her, will go a long way to minimise avoidable injuries, accidents and other challenges at workplace.

On his part, Ushie, whose house is behind the dumpsite, noted that life in the neighbourhood has always been horrible, especially in the morning and in the evening.

He said: “The stench is usually much in the morning and in the evening, while sometimes in the afternoon, it comes on and off, at irregular intervals.

“But during raining season, I bet you, you wouldn’t want to come near this place. Most of us who reside in this area are living a solitary life. This is because we hardly play host to friends and associates. Instead, we prefer visiting them.

“What about the roads? They are

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Fresh air, a scarce commodity

The landfill surrounded by beautiful structures.

in bad state – whenever it rains, they are a no-goarea. During dry season, it is dust everywhere.

“Virtually every compound has a borehole, but the most unfortunate thing is that the water here is good for nothing. It is even risky using it to bathe.

“Yet, despite this painful situation, the house rents are sky-bound. A standard three-bedroom flat goes for between N350,000 and N400,000, while a self-contain apartment is between N85,000 and N100,000 depending on the structure. A single room apartment on the other hand goes for N3,000.”

Another resident, Mr. Solomon Kadri, said he had been living in the area for almost eight years.

Corroborating Ushie, he said the residents of Somoye Osundairo Street, Adebayo Odueko Street, Princess Omoyiola Aboyade Street, and Alhaji Sekoni Street were the worst hit.

Kadri, who said there is no justification for the huge rent being paid for accommodation in the area, added that although the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) was trying its best to put the place in good shape, there was more to be done.

He said: “Since the place is fast developing, government should endeavour to relocate the site from the area.”

Kadiri said that several petitions had been written to the government over the matter.

There is also a gas company, Gasland Nigeria Limited, which is virtually sitting on the Igando dumpsite.

How on earth would you see a dumpsite and the best decision you can take is to erect a structure there

PHOTOS: TUNDE OSOWE

A former employee of the company, who craved anonymity, terrible odour from the dumpsite was affecting the health of its workers while the company did not do enough to protect them.

Speaking with NT Life, the LAWMA General Manager, Mr Ola Oresanya, raised some posers when he queried the erection of structures at the Igando landfill.

“When did the company get to the place? How did they manage to get approval for the acquisition of the land in the first place, and two, who approved it?” he queried.

According to Oresanya, though the place is a temporary site, that does not guarantee or serve as a licence for anyone to start erecting illegal structures around the landfill.

The MD added that it was wrong for anyone to build around landfills.

He said: “How on earth would you see a dumpsite and the best decision you can take is to erect a structure there, without even minding the health implication of such move.

It is most unfortunate. Of course the landfill has been there for over a decade.” Oresanya also said that the authority was already working on another site around Badagry axis.

According to him, the reclamation of the new site has begun in earnest.

However, in a swift reaction, the spokesperson of Gasland Nigeria Limited, who simply gave her name as Mrs. Yemi, disagreed, saying the land was duly acquired and backed up with relevant documents.

She said: “How can somebody say or doubt the genuine acquisition of the land? With all sincerity, we have all

Oresanya

the necessary papers and documents including the C-of-O to this land.

“The acquisition followed due process of the law of the land. Let me also confirm to you that this property had been here long before the landfill came to being. The records are there.

So, it is not a matter of one coming up and starting to erect structures around the landfill.

“As a way of registering our displeasure over the turn of things about the landfill, the entire neighbourhood comprising the residents, landlord associations, shop and business owners and other individuals have written several letters to appropriate quarters.

“As I speak with you, our efforts are already yielding results because LAWMA is currently working to put the place in proper shape.”

As regard the condition of service at the company, she noted that there was no way the company could operate effectively in the state without adhering strictly to safety and best standard of operation.

While denying the allegation made by one of the company’s former employees, the spokesperson said that the company was signatory to relevant government agencies and as such could not hide behind one finger to do business contrary to dictates of the law of the land.

“We operate an all-inclusive health insurance policy for all our workers.

As long as they pay tax, in accordance with the Lagos State tax regime, it is mandatory for the company to have the health insurance policy in place for its workforce,” she added.

Entertainment

NEW TELEGRAPH

25

www.newtelegraphonline.com/entertainment

SOny Neme Entertainment Editor

sony.neme@newtelegraphonline.com 0811 181 3096

FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2014

Stories by Sony Neme

T

he trading floor of Lagos Stock Exchange, NSE, was in a different mood on Monday, February 24 as celebrated musicians visited. They participated in a special bell ringing ceremony, as part of activities designed to commemorate International Corporate Philanthropy Day. The music stars led by Chief Tony Okoroji, Chairman, Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), seized the opportunity to also, rally support from the capital market for their full participation in the Big War Against Cancer in Nigeria. The cancer project was flagged off on February 4 in Lagos by the Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy (CECP) Nigeria, led by the convener, Mrs. Margaret A Adeleke, OON. According to a statement signed by Mayree Uket, New Media, for COSON and made available to New Telegraph, “Before the bell ringing ceremony, the management of the NSE had assured the CECP delegation of the full identification of the NSE with the objectives of the Big War Against Cancer in Nigeria. They also promised to mobilize the stakeholders in the capital market to comprehensively support the war”.

Chief Okoroji had informed that, “Nigeria’s biggest benefit concert ever, will bring together a galaxy of the nation’s brightest stars, Nigeria’s corporate titans and the biggest brands in the land.” Okoroji explained that the Big War Against Cancer in Nigeria is on and concrete efforts are in place to

Rocksteady rocks Club Vegas with My Love

F

ollowing his scintillating performance at the Trace Urban Social Media Week , where he wowed fans with his unique style, Rocksteady has again thrilled fans at another club performance. The artist was hosted at Club Vegas Night Club in Ikeja. It was a night of fun and partying, as the club hosted the Hypertek Digital/960 Music signee, who is promoting his latest single My Love.

Music stars shine at Lagos Stock Exchange … as the big war against cancer gathers steam

L-R: Don T, Dr. Abia Nzelu, Executive Secretary, CECP-Nigeria, Sound Sultan; Chief Tony Okoroji, Azeezat Allen, Dr. Kin J-Egwuonwu, National Coordinator, NCPP and Technical Coordinator, CECP-Nigeria. INSET: L-R: Mrs. Margaret A. Adeleke, OON, Convener, CECP - Nigeria, Mr. Bola Adeeko, Head, Corporate Services Division, NSE, Dr. Abia Nzelu, Executive Secretary, CECP – Nigeria and Chief Tony Okoroji, Chairman, COSON

bring 37 mobile cancer centers into Nigeria.

“That will ensure early detection of the disease and treatment across the nation,” he explained, adding that, “the historic concert will mark the crescendo in a special week dedicated to tackling the cancer scourge which is killing ten Nigerians every hour”. The concert will hold on Sunday, June 8 at the Expo Hall of Eko Hotel & Suites in Lagos.

Okoroji reportedly said, COSON, several leading religious organizations

and Hotel and Personal Services Employers Association of Nigeria (HOPESEA) are partnering with CECP and its co-promoters. They are Institute of Directors (IoD), Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines & Agriculture (NACCIMA), Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

The essence will culminate in their efforts to acquire 37 Mobile Cancer

Centers (MCCs), and supply one for each of the 36 state and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. We reliably gathered that the MCCs are expected to facilitate a nation-wide cancer screening/treatment campaign that will provide every Nigerian a fighting chance in the battle against cancer.

A mobile cancer center is a clinic on wheels, where screening, follow-up and several forms of treatment (including surgeries), can take place. It includes facilities for mammography,

Another MAVIN out with African Princess

A

nother addition to the wave-making record label Mavin Records, Korede Bello, was recently signed. And as it is customary with the Don Jazzy crew, the new act was unveils as Mavin presents his first official single called "African Princess".

The label insider informed New Telegraph that, “Korede Bello together with Di Ja and Reekado Banks are fully ready to team up the with the resistless Mavin squad.

So Africans, let’s welcome Korede Bello. A passionate song dedicated to those in love but also celebrates the African woman's awesomeness”.

The young soul sensational singer, christened Korede Bello, our source further hinted, is ready to take you on a good music spree.

Hear him: “His songs are often times straight from the heart, often inspired by

his environment, and sometimes hilarious.

But it comes with deeper meaning, which documents the struggle of a young African trying to achieve his dreams”.

The Mass Communication student is a victim of Leap year that is why it was a special birth day to officially welcome his first single from Mavin Records. “ H e is best known for his guitar performances and his ability to move any size of crowd. His fast growing female fans call him the ultimate lover boy because of his soft sweet vocals and also his looks”, he further enthused.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

26 Entertainment

Friday, March 7, 2014

Music stars at NSE CO N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 5

L-R: Fashola, Showkey and Obi

Showkey got Fashola, Obi dancing at Muson

G

hetto soldier, and Ajegunle first born, John Asiemo, known by fans as Daddy Showkey was at his elements on Sunday. At the MUSON Center, Onikan-Lagos during the Silverbird Man of the Year award, Showkey took Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State and his Lagos State counterpart, Raji Fashola, to dance galala, his choreograpic creation.

Both governors were few minutes earlier named joint winners of the Silverbird Man of the Year 2013. It was under the chairmanship of Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Odein Ajumogobia, In his acceptance speech at the event well encored by Sunny Irabor, Fashola had dedicated his award to the public servants and tax payers in the state. He hoped the award would inspire Nigerians to perform better in their various fields of endeavours.

His words: “The previous winners have all made their marks in the life of this nation. NAFDAC has always been there until Akunyili made it what it is today. The Abuja master plan has always

been there but not until El Rufai stepped in and transformed the FCT to its original master plan. There has been corruption in the country until Nuhu Ribadu proved that corruption can be tackled and dealt with.”

Also in his speech, outgoing governor of Anambra State , Peter Obi urged Nigerians not to relent in praying for the country as it is only Nigerians that can build it.

Governor Obi said, “Though we are improving, we are not getting better.

The society we neglect today will take revenge on our children tomorrow. I must be honest with you, this is a credible award. I did not in any way pay for this award, because it is difficult for me to part with money. On Saturday, March 7, I will tender my stewardship to the people of Anambra State .

“I will show people where and how I started and where I stooped. When I came into power, it was a case of where lunatics were in charge of the asylum.

There was no government lodge, no house of assembly, nothing. I had to stay in my village for a week. Till to-

day, nobody has asked me the notice of impeachment. I was impeached on the radio. But I will reel out everything that day.”

The chairman of the Silverbird Group, Ben Murray Bruce, in his remarks appealed to those in government at all levels to show compassion to the poor and view governance as service.

“As I listened to speaker after speaker, it was like we were in a classroom. At a time like this, we hope we make the right decisions at all level. We make so many mistakes and we don’t care of the consequences. We should figure out a way to live together as a nation,” he said.

The event also had other eight awardees. These are Lifetime Achievement Awards, which went to Dr. Tunji Braithwaite, frontline lawyer and activist; Chief Joop Berkhout, Publisher and chairman of Safari Books; and Dr. Chinweizu, foremost Pan Africanist, poet and historian. A special Achievement award went to Stephen Keshi, Technical adviser and coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

For their effortsz in the reunifica-

Ego Uwa: A Splash of fresh air

S

plash is set to set a new standard for female emcees in the Nigeria music scene with another single, Ego Uwa. This is coming after what seemed like a long silence, leaving fans wondering where she has been; or what she is up to.

Splash, whose first single, Church Agbasa, won her critical acclaim, is set to make a fresh statement with her forthcoming follow up single. Known for her lyrical depth, and smooth blend of the Igbo language in her songs, Splash has yet again scored another hit.

She has moved base from her former label, the HMan-led August Pee Entertainment to join Brodock Music Group, home to the young talented kid, Vito. “Splash is a brilliantly talented artiste, and we’re excited to have her with us at BMG.” Smart, Chairman of Brodock Music Group.

With successful introduction into the industry, and a steadily growing fanbase, Splash is no doubt one of Nigeria’s respected young femcees.

colonoscopy, colposcopy, cryotherapy, and sonology as well as laboratory and operating theatre. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has created a unique short code for those who want to contribute to this effort. By texting “CANCER” or any other chosen word to ‘’44777”, a person can contribute N100/sms towards this cause.

Interswitch Limited has also established a code - “777526” - for donations via ATM or online at www.quickteller. com. Every right thinking Nigerian is today urged to contribute to this cause which might save our lives or the lives of some people we love dearly. COSON requests that we all encourage our friends and family members to contribute.

Prominent at the bell ringing ceremony was Mrs Adeleke, the CECP Nigeria convener and the first woman in Nigeria to head a quoted company. Also on hand to witness the historic moment were Mr. Yusuf Muda, Director-General of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr. Sola Obadimu, Director, Capacity Building of Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), and Mr. Timothy Olawale, Director & Head of Social, Economic and Labour Affairs of the Nigerian Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA).

Also there were Dr. Kin J-Egwuonwu, National Coordinator, National Cancer Prevention Programme (NCPP) and Technical Coordinator, CECP-Nigeria and Dr. Abia Nzelu, Executive Secretary, CECP-Nigeria.

Artistes present were Sound Sultan, Azeezat Allen and entertainment manager extraordinaire, Tony Anifite, popularly known as Don T.

Olu Kode returns with Shebelele Olushola Ricketts

O

LUMIDE Olabisi, otherwise known as Olu Kode, is back and better. His new dance single Shebele has all the qualities to make headlines in the entertainment industry given the right push.

Olu Kode, who has been on break for a while, was a former member of two groups of artiste known as Kode.

They sang Where dem dey ft. the late Dagrin and Baby Boo ft. Clever Jay. They even dropped an album before the duo decided to part ways.

In a chat with New Telegraph, he said "It also affected the deal with our record label, Blackbridge entertainment. Everything just came to a halt but I did not regret the experience I shared with him,” he explained.

“It was a hard decision, but I settled for school.” he admitted.

About his new Afro-Pop single, Shebelele, Olu described the song as the new move in town, adding that it got some hilarious one-two steps.

Entertainment

Friday, March 7, 2014

Celebrating the pathfinders

B

lack History Month, in the last 25 years, has become a cultural and financial phenomenon worthy of celebration. The theme for the event was “Arts and the Cultivation and Refinement of the Human Capital”.

Certainly one of the greatest events in all history has to be the story of how an enslaved people, forcibly taken from their homelands and beaten down, both physically and psychologically with vicious racism, and managed to regain their freedom.

Today, their towering achievements in various fields of endeavor are well known all over the world. These are in respectable professions as science, academics, sports, entertainment, Wall Street, inventions and creativity.

In sub-Saharan Africa, they are role models. From Leon Sullivan to Jesse Jackson and Will Smith to Beyonce, they have continued to shape and inspire the continent in all spheres of human endeavor.

Recently, at the Bogobiri Hotels, Lagos, a large tribe of artistes gathered to celebrate this year’s Black History Month. It was a typical Taruwa night to give vent to the creative juices of both the aspiring and established artist. Though, on this particular day the routine was different.

It was a Black History Month Special, powered by the Pan African publication African Profiles Magazine and US based URIM media in conjunction with local art clearing house Gbagychild entertainment, hosts of the Taruwa brand.

According to organizers, this year’s

even fully aware of the colonial empires, which since 1884 –had started taking control of their continent”, they explained.

According to representative of URIM media, Mr Tim Chuks, the essence of the event was to stimulate a new wave of black consciousness. “To kick start a process of transatlantic dialogue between Africa and the Diaspora that could lead to improved cooperation and expansion in both cultural and economic ties,” he said, while acknowledging that Nigeria, “Which is the biggest representative of Africa’s autonomous heritage was in the best position to explore the vast benefits of the Black American Market for mutual progress”.

Reverend EE James of the Assemblies of God Church, and copublisher of Education Today, said, “The need to open up more opportunities to engage the expertise of the Diaspora through enabling government policies and favourable environment for investment purposes”.

This year’s event was particularly significant as it marked the 50th anBeyonce niversary of the Civil Liberties Act and Nigeria’s Malcolm X and how they helped cre- Centenary. The roll call of attendees ate a new order through their artistic included top Nollywood producers and delivery. actors such as Wale Ojo and Uduak Isong Amongst others reasons for the cel- of Royal Arts Academy, Aramide and ebration is because black Americans Nosa of Chocolate city. Rave of the mohave always been very much part of ment and Zimbabwean Writer, NoViolet Africa’s story.

Bulawayo also showed up to enjoy the “They were instrumental to the for- evening. mation of the Pan African Congresses On the centenary aspect of the celthat fought for African freedom from ebrations, the African Profiles team 1901 when Sylvester Williams and WEB believes that Nigeria, over the past 100 DuBois began the drive. This was at a years, has come a long way toward natime when many Africans were not tional purpose and regional relevance. theme was in recognition of the central role played by Arts in the entire black liberation movement. In a stirring Speech

by International PR consultant and Pan Africanist, James Eze, who stood in for guest speaker, Hon Prof. Chudi Uwazuruike, the great writings of influential were highlighted. They include black historical figures like Frederick Douglas, W.E.B Dubois, M L K J n r,

Youssou N’Dour thrills Etisalat Prize

I

t was the best of entertainment when African pride, Youssou N’Dour mounted the stage to perform at the search for Africa’s most prolific debut fiction writer. For guests at the grand finale of the Etisalat Prize for Literature held at the Marquee, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island Lagos recently.

Not only were they were privileged to witness the emergence of the next best writer in a genre of African literature, they were also treated to the best of African melodies by music icon.

Described by Rolling Stone magazine as the most famous singer alive in Senegal and much of Africa, the Senegalese adorned in an all-white regalia with his band, rendered a remarkable performance of some of his popular songs. Among them were Redemption Song” ,“7 seconds”, and “New Africa”.

He later poured encomium on Etisalat thus, “I have to say a big thank you to Etisalat for this opportunity to be in Lagos, Nigeria, and attend this wonderful event. It is indeed a big honour to

play here and I look forward to coming back again to such an amazing country.”

He said.

According to the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Etisalat Nigeria, Matthew Willsher, the Etisalat Prize for Literature award was designed to recognize and reward debut writers of fiction in the African region, with the objective of discovering new creative talent from Africa and promoting the burgeoning publishing industry on the continent.

Willsher further said, "As a rite of passage, published and unpublished literary works of art have been passed down from generation to generation in Africa. Etisalat Nigeria is proud to use its maiden edition of the Etisalat Prize for Literature pan-African award to recognize and celebrate the amazing work done by these unique individuals."

Bulawayo received a £15,000 cash prize, an engraved Montblanc Meisterstück pen and a Samsung Galaxy Note.

She will attend the Etisalat Fellowship at the prestigious University of East

Anglia and will be mentored by Giles Foden – Author of the “Last King of Scotland”. And she will also have book tours to three African cities.

Uche Okonkwo’s “Neverland” emerged as the Winner of the ‘Flash Fiction’ category, taking home the cash prize of £1000 and a Samsung galaxy note. Runners up for the ‘Flash Fiction’ Category are Bonaventure Chukwu for “Fear” and Nzere Jeremiah for “Silent Screams”, each winning £500 and a Samsung Galaxy note.

Youssou

27

LYRICS for the week

2face Idibia

Rainbow Ever since I left you I have been to hell and I am back now my baby, I I wanna give you all my body and soul And I want to give you the keys to all that I got Girl you are my star, you are my rainbow Verse 1 (2face Idibia): Cos now I don’t see rainbows, everywhere I go It never used to be so (be so) but now my heart is cold Now it’s a big cloud (big cloud) Hovering over my soul And I won shout (won shout) Don’t wanna be on mute no more Ever since I left you girl It’s like I fell off Now I can’t get back online since I logged off I am feeling all alone I don’t feel free no more I am a prisoner for you like I am in handcuffs Now I wonder what I was thinking when I took off Now I realize that your lips and body so soft Girl I am not too proud to beg I will kneel and kiss your legs Cos I am fed up plus Ever since I left you I have been to hell and I am back And my baby, I I wanna give you all my body and soul Infact I want to give you the keys to all that I got Girl you are my star, you are my rainbow Verse 2 (T-pain): T-pain Hey! You got away And I can’t get you back It’s my fault And I can’t lie about that And I’m searching for you all over the sky No matter rain or sunshine I can’t wait to make you mine Kinda of next time I won’t let you out of my sight I’ve been looking to the left to the right to the front to the back and everywhere I go I always think I see my rainbow And you were never anywhere to be found I’m not trying to stress you I know I’m not best dude Without you I’m a mess boo I’ve got nothing left So I must confess Chorus: Ever since I left you I’ve been to hell and I’m back And my baby I; I wanna give you all my body and soul Infact I want to give you the keys to all that I’ve got Girl you’re my star You are my rainbow Bridge: Hey Chinekeme Girl I’m down on my knees Accept my apologies E no easy Now I realize It should be you and I You and I, I Ever since I left you girl Ever since I left you Left you girl Ever since I left you girl The keys; Keys Take it x5 Chorus Ever seen I left you You are my rainbow I’ve been to hell and I’m back You are my rainbow You are my rainbow Infact I want to give you the keys to all that I’ve got You are my rainbow hook Ever since I left you I’ve been to hell and I’m back And my baby I; I wanna give you all my body and soul Infact I want to give you the keys to all that I’ve got Girl you’re my star You are my rainbow

28 Entertainment TELEMOVIES

Friday, March 7, 2014

‘Voters’ Credible Choices Set AMVCA Apart’

Osas

T

he concept of encouraging voters to decide winners of AfricaMagic Viewers’ Choice Awards, AMVCA, contributed immensely to its success at inception. That pattern made AMVCAs as an award given by the viewing public; through the organisers.

Interestingly, The #AMVCA2014 gala event will be co-hosted by IK Osakioduwa, Osas Ighodaro and Vimbai Mutinhiri, all of whom are part of AfricaMagic’s onscreen family.

Instead of the usual system that yields such responsibilities on some expert that sit somewhere and decide for millions of view, that are in most cases not satisfied with the outcome. it

an outstanding standard in the reward system for the industry. And since the launch of the second AMVCA, the focus remains on voting credible choices.

That has led to reassurance from MNet Africa Managing Director, Biola Alabi, that “For us at AMVCA, voters’ credible choices will remain the benchmark as we will continue to make a difference with quality entertaining programmes forf our viewers.”

Alabi had during the unveiling of the process that will lead to the second edition next month, pointed out that, “AMVCA is committed towards the recognition, nurturing and rewarding excellence and artistry that exist within

our movie and television industry.”

For her, the number of entries and the significant response received is proof that the AMVCAs are steady on the ever-expanding industry.

The grand award ceremony will hold on Saturday, March 8, 2014 to celebrate contributors to the Africa’s film-making industry over the last 12 months. This is the second edition of AMVCA, and is being organised in conjunction with Multichoice with the aim of recognizing and rewarding excellence in African film and television.

CEO of MultiChoice Africa, Nico Meyer expressed delight to be a partner in the second edition of the AMVCA. “Our association with the awards is a show of our commitment to growing Africa’s talent, the entertainment and movie industry. This is with quality local programming that is allowing Africans to take ownership of their achievements. We are certain that once again this year, the continent will celebrate its rising stars. We look forward to the emergence of powerful stories and Africa’s unsung heroes,” Meyer intoned.

It would be recalled that the inaugural AMVCA ceremony took place in Lagos on 9 March 2013. Sponsored by Amstel Malta, the event was broadcast live from Lagos to DStv and GOtv audiences in more than 50 countries across the continent. The occasion was attended by some of the big name actors and actresses from across the continent’s TV and film industry.

Some of the movies that went with honors were Otelo Burning (Best Movie Overall), Skeem (Best Movie- Comedy) and The Mirror Boy (Best Movie – Drama). The Best Actor and Best Actress in a Drama accolades went to Nigerian OC Ukeje and Ghanaian Jackie Appiah.

Funke, Emelonye top AMVCA nominees’ list

F

unke Akindele and producer, Obi Emelonye topped the list with multiple nominations as stakeholders in the movie industry converge to celebrate the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award (AMVCA).

2014 has a total of 28 awards in 26 categories with nine of them being voted for by the voters.

Nigeria's favourite malt drink,

Amstel Malta …will once again sponsor this event.

With almost 10 nominations, Obi’s “Last Flight To Abuja” is in for the big wins while Funke’s involvement with the English speaking movies earned her over six nominations with three nominations from the Best Actress in a comedy category.

In the Best actress in a drama category, Nkiru Sylvanus will have Nse Ikpe-Etim, Ivie Okujaye, Stephanie Wilson and Veronica Waceke to beat. The 2014 AMVCAs nominations were unveiled at the Landmark marquee on Victoria Island, Lagos amid pomp and glee on Thursday, December 5, 2013.

Emelonye

AMVCA 2014 Nominees’ View Creative Online Video Earns AMVCA Nomination 22 years old Mark Kaiyare short film, Deceit, earned him an AfricaMagic Viewers' Choice Awards nomination in the Best New Media: Online Video category.

Amarachi Elated About AMVCA Movie maker Amarachi Onoh remains elated about his AMVCA nomination. However, he sees it more as added responsibilities, just as he believes people will expect more from him now that he’s under the spotlight.

Majid thrilled with AMVCA nominations It is a thriller for Ghanaian hunk and actor Majid Michel is thrilled about his two AMVCA nominations.

NHL Set Design Elated By AMVCAs Nairobi Half Life art director, Barbara Minishi rejoices about being rewarded with an AMVCA nomination.

AMVCA a great initiative says Osita Iheme Funnyman Osita Iheme is nominated twice in one category for the AMVCA. What makes this man so great?

AMVCA Is The Real Deal, Says Hakeem Hakeem Kae Kazeem and the Last Flight to Abuja, hails Obi Emelonye’s AMVCA nomination.

Michelle Bello respects the AMVCAs Michelle Bello is surely excited at the four AMVCA nominations she received for her movie Flower girl.

Who wouldn’t?

Limbo dancer eager for AMVCAs Catherine Kabugi, who holds the Guiness World Record in Limbo dancing, is a woman of many talents and is nominated for an AMVCA for Best Costume Design.

Live Streaming: 2014 AMVCAs Expectedly, it was a live streaming for the 2014 AMVCA nominees announcement on Thursday 05 December 2013. It was hosted by Star Gist's Vimbai and Lawrence.

Nigeria's favourite malt drink, Amstel Malta …will once again sponsor this event Show on forbidden love gets AMVCA nod Ann Hamberger's film Nina has been nominated for an AMVCA in the Best Indigenous Language category and she shares her experience.

AMVCA nomination means a lot to Funke Funke Akindele has become a household name and her acting skills are being recognized with three AMVCA nominations this year.

Kona catch up: Fickle friendships The friendships in the Kona sphere seem to be more than meets the eye as plots and twists and turns are creeping up.

AMVCA nod feels wonderful - Fatima Jabbe Writer Fatima Jabbe is up for an AMVCA nomination.

She speaks about what it means and also chats about her favorite DStv channel.

Why you should watch Anchor Baby On Sunday, AfricaMagic Entertainment is bringing all the drama in Lonzo Nzekwe‘s Anchor Baby.

Kona’s Julia is taking over Nollywood Actress Nini Wacera is taking big career strides and is now in Lagos for the production of several movies.

Mercy Aigbe honored by AMVCA nomination Actress Mercy Aigbe is honored to be recognized for her work with an AMVCA nomination.

Bad girl earns an AMVCA nomination Actress Veronica Waceke scored herself an AMVCA for her role as a bad girl in the TV series Higher Learning.

Amarachi: AMVCA nod means added responsibilities Movie maker Amarachi Onoh is elated about his AMVCA nomination and believes people will expect more from him now that he’s under the spotlight.

Majid thrilled with AMVCA nominations Ghanaian hunk and actor Majid Michel is thrilled about his two AfricaMagic Viewers' Choice Awards nominations.

Interview with Kona’s editing queen Franki Ashiruka is a freelance editor who has been working on Kona speaks to DStv about her experience.

Michael: AMVCA nod means I'm on right path Make up artist Michael Wawuyo whose been nominated for an AMVCA talks about his experience in the industry.

Kona catch up: Don’t play with fire Wangui is caught up in a pyramid scheme that leaves her opening up to Ayira and Abasi about catching the conmen.

AMVCA gives us a platform says Benjamin Joseph Benjamin feels really good about the AMVCAs and appreciates the platform it has created for the African film and movie industry.

From NHL set design to the AMVCAs Find out what art director Barbara Minishi has to say about being rewarded with an AMVCA nomination for her work in the film Nairobi Half Life.

Vimbai hangs with Jim Iyke Vimbai will be one of the faces we will see on Jim Iyke Unscrited 2 this season as they meet.

Source: AMVCA

Rowland

Entertainment

Friday, March 7, 2014

29

My Report Card

Lasode in search of Hidden Treasure with Ugboma, Clarion

- Ibinabo, President, Actors’ Guild of Nigeria

l Builds film village in partnership with Desco Tourism

A

s Nigeria celebrates its 100 years of amalgamation, a cast led by Chief Eddie Ugboma, OON is at the trenches of Lekki Peninsula, Lagos in search of Hidden Treasure. The movie by Femi Lasode is loaded with a mix of old and young troupe. Among them are Larry Williams, Paul Obazele, and ageless Clarion Chukwura. Others are Sango main actor, Ufuoma Ejenebo, Alariwo of Africa, and Belinda Efua and a host of others.

Interestingly, Lasode is collaborating with Desmond Majekodumi’s Desco Tourism, Lagos, who provided him with a vast piece of land at Lekki, Lagos. That explains the smile on the face of Songo producer who at last gotten close to building a film village of his choice.

Lasode has been an advocate of film villages in Nigeria as it is done in advance movie world.

He said Majekodumi’s kind gesture is a huge relief from the stress associated with locations for epic and other films of this standard. He recalls the pains he had to contend with after a successful shot of Sango. He had to forfeit virtually all the expensive sets he built at different locations and towns in Nigeria for the epic movie.

In an exclusive, but hurriedly arranged interview, Lasode, reveals that production for the much awaited movie is almost concluded. He spoke with New Telegraph, at his Victoria, Island extension, Lagos office.

That was minutes before he rushed out to meet with the cast waiting to commence production time line.

Sir what are you up to now?

“Like I have always said, there is the need for a functional film village. That movie makers can use and reuse. I always said this from my experience when I came back after shooting my Sango movie. There we had to build sets at Ikorodu, outside of Ilorin in Kwara state and at Oshogbo, Osun State. yes we have beautiful sets, but at the end of the day we had to

Clarion

Lasode

leave the sets behind, because we couldn’t carry them when we were done with the epic.

When I remember when I was driving away, it wasn’t a good memory. Yes we had shot a very good movie, but when I looked back, there were the sets we had spend a lot of money to build and we couldn’t carry them. It was a sad experience.

So I promised my self that if I have the opportunity I will ensure that I will put a film village together where I can have people come and build their sets that be used and reused.

Now are in partnership with Desco Tourism, owned by Desmond Majekodunmi. He has given us access to an acre of his farm. Our job is to provide the infrastructure which we have done. One thing is to have the acres and the infrastructure.

But you have to show people what you can get out of it. That is where the movie, Stolen treasure. So we try to see if we can utilize every portion of the land we have been given.

Whose treasure was stole?

The theme of the movie is that we should try and preserve our antiquities. And you know that Europeans are fond of coming to our coast line and taken away our treasures. And you see them at museums abroad.

Its something that Chief Eddie Ugboma, OON, had raised the issues some decades ago, in his movie, the Mask. So what we are doing is a reheasrh. Bringing the issues to front burners of national discuss. It is an advenyture story where eurpean sailors had come to our coastline. They had raided the area, but unfortunately there was a dislocation as two of themn were killed, so the remainder buried the treasure in a cave as they couldn’t go far from being apprehended by the locals.

They drew a map of the location where the treasures were hidden, with an intention to come back for it. But they never did. So centuries later, the map resurfaced at an auction in Europe. The buyer got ready to come for the treasures.

Meanwhile when you hear of these auctions, we only know of the lucky bidder. Have you ever bothered to think who the second lucky bidder was?

And how did he feel not getting what he bided for? So the second bidder decided to put his expedition together, also in search of the treasure.

The third group of people that went in search of same treasure were the natives who also want their treasure back.

So there was a hunt by four groups to retrieve this treasure.

That is what the storyline is about.

When are we expecting the movie?

This is the second week of production. We have gone far are hoping to wrap it up by end of this month. As for quality, you should expect the best because we have a very good blend of artistes. Same thing in terms of crew, seasoned DOP (director of photography). We want to show that we can produce quality stuff.

Films by GREENVILLE PRODUCTIONS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED l Broken Ambition 2007 l Female lion 2007 l Onoja pt 1and 2 (2008) l Desperate soul pt 1 and 2(2008) l Personal Desire pt1 and 2(2008) l Sisters face pt1 n 2(2011) l Revenge of the gods pt 1 and 2(2008) l Ujuaku the tigress 2010 l Ujuaku the Tigress pt 1 n 2 l Broken soul pt 1 and 2(2009) l Complusory Risk pt1 and 2 (2009) l The Eye pt1 n 2(2012) l Days of blood pt1 and 2 (2011) l National service pt 1 n 2(2012) l Adaora pt1 & 2 (2013) l The light pt1 n 2(2012) l National Experience pt 1 n 2(2012) l Heart of Isiaku pt1 n 2(2013) Onochie pt 1 & 2 (2013) premiered in London last year June 7@ Odeon Cinema Obiajulu part 1 & 2 (2013)

Ibinabo

THE NEW NATIONAL EXECUTIVE The present National Executive Council was sworn into office in November, 2012 after a successful National election in September, 2012.

CHALLENGES

I took over the leadership of Guild with enormous challenges and controversies.

FUNDS

Funding is still a major challenge of our Guild. The Guild has been surviving on member’s meager annual dues and levies. Less than 10% of the registered members pay dues and levies.

Lack of Standard Contract with the producers; lack of training and re-training of members; lack of support at all levels; lack of proper membership data for developmental processes; lack of affiliation with relevant local and international bodies We lost three popular veterans and icons of our film industry within the period under review. They are: Messrs. Enebeli Elebuwa, Pete Eneh and Justus Esiri-

ACHIEVEMENTS

Much as we were faced with great challenges, I was not deterred from moving the Guild forward within the last five months in office. Some of our major achievements are but not limited to the following; unite all warring factions within the Guild; constructed a new multimedia website, www.actorsguildnigeria.org; and commenced online registration/revalidation system to enable us to know membership strength and numbers. others are commencement of Health Management Plan and Insurance Scheme for members; inauguration of two new State Chapters; ands we commenced the first ever veteran’s meeting series across all the six geo political zones. We have been able to change the skewed perception about the Guild to a more positive and purposeful Actors Guild both to the general public, Government and the Press; building lasting structures and Membership Database; and acquired 18-setter bus for the Guild. we introduced an inter-ethnic cultural festival (Drama, Dance and Poetry) amongst the state chapters to unite all members; lifestyle benefits discount for members on travel, holidays, shops on groceries, restaurants; and we are in the process of getting legislation to guide and protect the Actor in Nigeria.

We are in talks with NBC and Nigerian copyright Commission on residual payments to Actors in Nigeria. We also are in talks with other Guilds and Associations in the industry on the need to unionize. we have secured a national secretariat at Abuja; and the decoration of president Goodluck Jonathan as the Grand Patron of AGN.

IMMEDIATE PLANS

Below are some of our immediate plans: to improve on welfare package for members; commence training and re training of members in all categories, affiliate and twine with relevant Associations and Agencies; and o organize the first ever AGN Screen Actors Awards.

Provide standard contract for members with the producers; embark on fund raising drive and sensitize members to pay dues; and to organize the first ever African Actors Summit to discuss our problems and prospects. Provide and protect working contracts and better working conditions for the Actor in Nigeria; zonal Film productions initiative for the six geo political zones aimed at discovering new talents and create jobs for members; to commence the inter- state ethnic cultural competition with the theme: Ethnic Harmony; as well as commence the performing Actors Rights for the collection of actors’ residuals with the launch the Benevolence Funds.

CONCLUSION: I promise to do my best and act by the oath office I took and the allegiance I pledged to defend the constitution of the Actors Guild of Nigeria.

30 Entertainment TELEMOVIES

Friday, March 7, 2014

CinemaWatch (Radio/TV/Events Guide)

Coming Soon

GOtv Highlights from March 7 - 14

Adele

M-Net MOVIES ZONE (Channel 2) GROUND CONTROL: A disgraced former air traffic controller is called back into service. When the system malfunctions, it becomes apparent that someone is responsible for the sabotage. On Saturday March 8, at 6:30pm BLACKBELT (Channel 12) THE BASTARD: The incomparable Lily Li was considered an actress with an attitude, which was perfect for her becoming a bad-girl fighter. In "The Bastard", she plays a beggar girl that becomes a target for evil men plotting to make "The Bastard" a scapegoat for murder because he happens to look like a jailed dignitary's son who has been accused of murder. Airing March 7 at 9:00pm with repeats on March 8 at 7:00pm FOUR RIDERS: This prime example of director/co-writer Chang Cheh's mastery takes place in Seoul right after the Korean War, as a kung-fu master, combat instructor, explosives expert, and missile specialist must take on a venal drug smuggling gang. Representing the Book of Revelation's four riders of war, famine, disease, and death as heroes against murder, corruption, jealousy, and greed, it's a brutal battle where the one true winner is the audience. Airing on March 3 at 5:00pm, March 13 at 11:00.

SONY ENTERTAINMENT (CHANNEL 20) – GOtv PLUS ONLY THE QUEENS OF COMEDY: Catch funny girls Monique, Laura Hayes, Adele Givens and Sombre in this fulllength stand-up comedy movie, a spinoff of The Original Kings of Comedy.

Filmed at the Orpheum Theatre in Memphis, the show features these top comediennes cracking jokes about family, men, marriage, big women versus skinny women and, of course, men! Don’t miss these crazy comedy queens in rip-roaring action! On Friday, 7 March at 20:00 CAT. MARTIN LAWRENCE LIVE: RUNTELDAT: Following a string of personal crises and box-office failures, Martin Lawrence made a triumphant return to

the stand-up comedy circuit in Washington, DC, which is documented in this hit film. In a stage performance that is liberally peppered with the f-word, Lawrence speaks candidly – and hilariously – about the stories behind some of his run-ins with the police, the media and the movie industry. On Friday 14 March at 20:00 CAT SONY MAX (Channel 21)

Martin

VIDEO ZONKERS: You know that chap called Murphy, who’s always around when something doesn’t go quite according to plan? Well, his law of “what can go wrong, will go wrong” is at the centre of Video Zonkers, which collects hilarious video clips from around the world documenting bloopers, accidents, crashes, mix-ups and generally peculiar behavior. Narrated by an animated character called Zonkers, this show adopts a

fast-paced, take-no-prisoners approach to comedy, complete with over-the-top cartoonish sound effects. Great fun! It airs from Monday 3 March at 20:00 CAT. WORLD’S WILDEST POLICE CHASES: Car chases, riots, robberies, arrests… reality TV meets law enforcement in this fast-paced series, which features caught-on-camera criminals and the police officers who take them down. Hosted by retired sheriff John Bunnell, the show uses video footage sourced from police cars, helicopters, store security cameras, reporters and private citizens to bring viewers the most thrilling car pursuits and the most chilling real-life shoot-outs caught on camera. On weekdays from Wednesday 5 March at 19:05 CAT. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC WILD (Channel 51) GOtv Plus ONLY JOBS THAT BITE: Jobs that Bite! is hosted by actor and outdoor enthusiast Jeremy Brandt. The new series produced

by Half Yard Productions follows Brandt across the country as he sets out to experience a wide array of animal jobs -- including Ostrich wrangling, wild bee hive rescue, lion dentistry, ostrich wrangling and patrolling with the mounted police -- and the authentic Americans who keep these careers and traditions alive. From Friday 7 March at 5:00pm.

Source: GOtv

Cooking With...

Friday 7 March at 19:30 Siri Friday 7 March at 17:30 Soul Of A Maiden Friday 7 March at 21:35 Nani Saturday 8 March at 19:35 Royal Destiny Saturday 8 March at 18:00 2014 AMVCAs Live!

Saturday 8 March at 18:00 Dry My Tears Saturday 8 March at 22:00 Royalty To Royalty Sunday 9 March at 19:30 Playing Safe Sunday 9 March at 22:00 Mr. Makuka Sunday 9 March at 19:35 Generations Monday 10 March at 21:30 Kingdom Apart Monday 10 March at 22:55 Oju Orun Monday 10 March at 19:35 Isidingo Tuesday 11 March at 22:00 Sumu La Penzi Tuesday 11 March at 19:00 Bianca Sunday 16 March at 22:00 Married But Living Single Sunday 23 March In Her Shoes Sunday 30 March at 22:00 Source: AfricaMagic

When Dreams Fall Apart Sunday, March 9. By Chico Ejiro

SPOTLIGHT

Jackie Appiah Jackie Appiah is a celebrated

Ghanaian actress with years of acting experience to her credit.

From her early role as the sweetheart of the TV drama series, Things We Do for Love, she has evolved into one of the most recognized faces in African cinema.

Jackie Appiah has warmed her way into the hearts of many with performances in productions from Ghana to Nollywood and Black Hollywood. She has won the prize for both best actress in a lead role and supporting role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards, as well as several other awards including a National Youth Achievement Award from the President of Ghana, H.E John Dramani Mahama.

O.C. Ukeje O.C. Ukeje is a Marine Science graduate of the University of Lagos, Akoka with a Diploma in Acting for Film from the New York Film Academy, Los Angeles. He was a recipient of the Africa Movie Academy Awards in the Best Upcoming Actor category for 2008 and the Best New Actor category for City People’s Awards of 2010.

He has appeared in about 13 feature films and several theater productions and has worked with celebrated actors like Olu Jacobs, Joke Silva, Ramsey Nouah, Rita Dominic, Hakeem Kae-Kazim, Sarah Wayne-

Callies, Chinwetel Ejiofor and Thandie Newton.

His film credits include White Waters; Jeta Amata’s Black November; Two Brides and a Baby; Confusion Na Wa; the screen adaptation of Chimamanda’s Half Of a Yellow Sun; and the recently concluded BFI-sponsored project, Gone Too Far. Stage credits include Going Back to my Roots; Ajai The Boy Slave; Wole Soyinka’s ‘The Lion and The Jewel’ and Sefi Atta’s ‘The Engagement’, two of the three plays showcased at the Cultural Olympiad in 2012, of which O.C. was a part of the repertory team. He was nominated in the AMVCA category for Best Actor in a Drama.

ARTS FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2014

NEW TELEGRAPH

www.newtelegraphonline.com/arts

CULTURE

Tony Okuyeme

A

31

beokuta the Ogun State capital came alive in kaleidoscopic of colours and potpourri of cultural displays during the28th Lisabi Festival.

Held on Thursday at June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta, and sponsored

by Globacom, the theme of the Festival was “Amalgamation in Nigeria and Egba National Independence”. Apart from series of cultural performances, including ayo game, seminar papers were presented by notable academics on topics such as “The rise and fall of Independent Egba Nation”, “The Political Economy of Egba Nation, a study in modernization and diversification” and “Heroes and Heroines of Egba Nation” among others.

Impressed with the event, the Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun commended Globacom for its robust support for traditional and cultural development in the country as a proudly Nigerian company.

Senator Amosun stated this in a remark read on his behalf by the Ogun State Commissioner for Culture, Mrs. Yewande Amusan at a seminar on the theme “Amalgamation in Nigeria and Egba National Independence” as part of activities marking 2014 Lisabi Festival. Noting that Glo’s participation and sponsorship of traditional and cultural development has been monumental, he added that, “This has distinguished Glo as a service provider of distinction among its peers”, Senator Amosun observed.

“I commend the management of Glo especially the Chairman, Dr. Mike Adenuga, GCON for identifying with Lisabi Festival.”

Welcoming guests earlier, the Chairman of the Seminar, Prof. Akin Mabogunje commended the legendary Egba heritage of creativity and inventiveness which led them to fuse one hundred and forty six different towns into four major sections of Ake, Oke-Ona, Owu and Gbagura.

He urged present day Egba indigenes to maintain peace and unity in order to continue to produce leaders in all walks of life and professions.

Prof. Mabogunje disclosed that Egbaland had been the focus of his academic studies for sixty years and noted that his book on the unique history of Egba which had reached chapter seven would soon be ready.

Also commenting, former Head of Interim Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan represented by the Baagbimo of Egba, Chief Sunny Oyekunle, pleaded with all Egba indigenes, at home and in the diaspora, to consolidate on the strings of firsts achieved in the past by excelling in their fields of endeavour adding that it is difficult

Without culture, and the relative freedom it implies, society, even when perfect, is but a jungle. This is why any authentic creation is a gift to the future " ― Albert Camus

Pomp, ceremony as Lisabi Festival holds in Abeokuta

zzAmosun lauds Globacom for supporting culture

Ayo game players in action during the festival.

Our robust partnership with Lisabi Festival is to keep Lisabi’s pioneering, courageous and excellent spirits alive in Egbaland with a view to imbuing young ones with the noble values of hard work, integrity, honesty, love, and patriotism which are some of the hallmarks of Egba ethos to stay at the top than getting there.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo encouraged Egba indigenes to return home to invest and build industries and charged them to come and pick up the family titles concluding that “those who can kill you are all dead”.

In his goodwill message, Globacom Chairman, Dr. Mike Adenuga, Jr stressed the need for the preservation and propagation of Africa’s rich cultural heritage and values as a means of building a greater tomorrow.

Dr. Adenuga explained that Globacom as a proudly Nigerian company is sponsoring Lisabi Festival to keep the

legacies of the Egba hero alive and impart young ones with the values which Lisabi Agbongboakala stood for.

“Our robust partnership with Lisabi Festival is to keep Lisabi’s pioneering, courageous and excellent spirits alive in Egbaland with a view to imbuing young ones with the noble values of hard work, integrity, honesty, love, and patriotism which are some of the hallmarks of Egba ethos,” he stated, adding that Globacom would continue to be in the vanguard of efforts to project African values and cultures whilst building the best and biggest brand focused on making life more fulfilling for the people through innovative offerings and pocket friendly tariffs.

In his address, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo stressed the need to teach young ones the Egba core values of honesty, industry and integrity and described a people without culture as animals.

He thanked Globacom for robustly supporting Egbaland to fulfil its obligations to the future generation and congratulated Dr. Mike Adenuga, Jr for being honoured as one of the influential one hundred personalities that have been outstanding in the last one hundred years of our nationhood.

He commended the Ogun State Government for the numerous developments going on across the state and pleaded with indigenes to continue to support the government through sacrifice, adding that eggs could not be enjoyed without breaking the shell.

Prizes were awarded to winners in the various competitions while numerous groups and chiefs paid homage to the monarch during the celebrations.

The theme of the 28th Lisabi Festival sponsored by Globacom was “Amalgamation in Nigeria and Egba National Independence”.

32 ART

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Reading culture takes centre stage at Notable Women of the Centenary celebration Ebere Ameh

Y

ou could feel the excitement in the air. The kids could not hide their enthusiasm as they waited eagerly to take their turns to read and carry out various performances at the presentation of Notable (Wo)men of the Centenary project to mark Nigeria’s centenary and the International Women’s Day in Lagos, last weekend.

The event was put together by Children and the Environment (CATE) in conjunction with CORA Art Foundation, ASIRI Magazine and Centre for Research Information Management and Media Development (CRIMMD), all nongovernmental and not for profit organizations the program, to celebrate 100 Nigeria’s great women of the century.

The convener of the event, Mrs. Sola Alamutu, explained that the essence of the programme is to get the young girls to know more about the 100 notable women of the century and strive to surpass them by focusing more on reading and hard work than Brazilian hair and stilettos. “We want to make them know that it is not just reading for information, but reading for knowledge,” she added.

The event which had some of the women in attendance, featured reading of the biography of one of notable women, Mrs Olufunmilayo Ransome-Kuti, by Students from Queens College, Methodist Girls High School and Reagan Memorial Baptist Girls College. The essence is to encourage the children to imbibe a reading culture while familiarising them with the lives of these outstanding women so that they could aspire to be even greater patriots than the celebrated women.

Odukale (middle) in performance.

Author of the book, 100 Women of the Centenary who is also the Director General of CRIMMD Dr Raphael James talked about his appreciation and belief in women. James who runs a Photo Museum, where he has pictures of over 100 women, dating back to 1800, added that many Nigerian women have done so much for the country to deserve more than five awards given to five Nigerian women as against 95 Nigerian men, who received various awards during the centenary celebration in Abuja. According to him, “we have these pictures to show the girls and to encourage them that they can do better,” she said.

Some old-girls from the schools were also on hand to encourage the children

on the importance of reading through their own life stories.

“Irene Keji Craig, who graduated from Queen’s College in 1973, told the excited children how she took after his father whom she described as a ‘readerholic’.

“My father was so versed in American way of life through reading that you would think he was born and bred there. Reading gives knowledge, knowledge is power, power forever,” Craig enthuseded.

Another old-student who is a Graphic Artist by profession told how her mother’s trick made her the avid reader she is today.

According to her, she was told by her mom that books contain secrets that

only those who read know. Though she started by reading her mother’s journal in her absence, she has found the secrets and still reading to find more secrets.

In an attempt to revive the virtue of patriotism in these children, Olaboludele Simoyan, simply introduced as Aunty Bolu, a patriot who has spent over five years writing books and researching to find solution to Nigeria’s challenges was on hand to share her 100 reasons why she loves Nigeria.

Among other things, she pointed out the ingenuity, the religiosity and conspicuous nature of the typical Nigerian. Wittily crafted and laced with so much humour, Aunty Bolu said that Nigerians are so religious that Nigerian armed robbers pray before they go out on operation. Talking about the advance fee fraud of which many Nigerians are involved in, the professional Architect, now author and blogger said it takes above average intelligence to collect millions of naira from someone without a gun.

Admonishing that we ‘channel our energies to positive use’, Aunty Bolu concluded saying “Imagine putting all the ‘yahoo boys’ in one room and get them to think and come out with something positive. If we are to discover and tap into our potential, the United States will not see our back.”

The event was not all about readings and speeches, as saxophonist and one of the finalists from Nigeria got Talent reality TV show, Korede Odukale, thrilled the audience with his melodious tunes. The children could not help but sing along when Oluwakemi Adetula (Irawo), who initiated familiar nursery rhymes with her talking drum.

Africa Meets Reggae in Calabar, Port Harcourt, Lagos Tony Okuyeme

F

rom October 2 to 5, 2014, all roads lead to Nigeria for this year’s edition of Africa Meets Reggae International World Music festival, featuring some top names in reggae and world music to showcase in three states.

The Africa Meets Reggae and World Music Festival would be held in the three states of Cross River State (Calabar), River State (Port Harcourt), and Lagos State (Lagos), respecyively, showcasing top names in Reggae and World Music over three days and will coincide with the 100th Centenary of Nigeria as a nation, the organizers stated.

Festival headliners are expected to be Majek Fashek, Damian ‘Jr. Gong’ Marley and

Stephen Marley, Victor Essiet and The Mandators, King Sunny Ade, Reggae historian Roger Steffens and top international artists like Snoop Lion (Dogg), Shaggy, among others.

Africa Meets Reggae has been an annual musical event hosted by Echodelic Music and Dub Club in Los Angeles the past four years and now it will be hosted in Nigeria for the first time by Mystic Records USA / Nigeria (Victor Essiet The Mandators ‘the Godfather of African Reggae’) and AWD / Brand Believers based in Nigeria in conjunction with Tom Chasteen (Echodelic Music / Dub Club) and Russell Gerlach (Foundation Artists) from the USA. “All are bringing this concept to an international stage

Sunny Ade

Stephen and Damian Marley

with production offices established in both Los Angeles, CA, USA and Lagos, Nigeria.

“Reggae music is a powerful instrument of change and since Victor Essiet’s time in America over the last decade, the message and music has

greatly faded. Victor Essiet (The Mandators) has returned to Nigeria in recent years and one of his missions is to reestablish Reggae music and its message to prominence in Nigeria and the whole of Africa.

“This festival will give Reg-

gae and world music new exposure and awareness to music fans worldwide. Come celebrate Reggae and World Music with the Living Legends of today as Reggae Music returns to Motherland Africa. “Music for the people, by the people.”

ART 33

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Nkpokiti dancers in performance.

Flora Onwudiwe

M

asquerades in Igbo land are seen as the re-incarnation of some dead important personalities, acting as guardian angels for the individuals and families they represent. But it goes beyond that, they are a source of entertainment with their amazing dancing steps.

The masquerades from Amaigbo town in Imo state brought this to the fore as they entertained dignitaries and all other communities, in an unusual costumes of masquerades, some wore knickers, jean trousers and blankets with masks to cover their faces. The masquerades danced to the resonating exuberant sound from the drummers, and excitedly, they ran helter-skelter scared the bystanders who were watching enthralled with arms akimbo. However, their presence spiced the day as most of the towns present came with their own cultural dance group.

It was a day Imo State Town Development Association Lagos(ISTDAL) celebrated its 27th Imo Cultural/Carnival day tagged; Unity in Strength, held at Abbati Barracks, Surulere, Lagos, recently.

The yearly cultural event founded in 1986 is aimed at championing and projecting the rich Igbo cultural activities.

The traditional breaking of kola nuts to ensure peace and unity among the people were offered to the ancestors before it was shared to the seated guests and non speaking Igbo tribes.

The event started with cultural display by both old men and women dressed in their best traditional attires, conscious of the fact that special prizes were attached to the best group that kept to the rules of the judges; with gospel songs at the background marching to the instrumentals , they were excitedly looking forward for a day like this to come. It was a day that illustrious sons and

In Lagos, Imo Cultural Day of performances Culture is a wonderful thing, it is what defines who we are, and what we have here today is Igbo culture on display, our dances, tradition, the way we interact, our social life, this is exactly who we are, and that is what we find time to demonstrate once in a year daughters were honoured and the best three dance cultural groups Mgbidi, Obidigwa and umuekwune town unions emerged winners. The chairman of the day, Barr. Maxwell Ogugua called out the results and the president of the Association Mazi Tony Ohakwe presented trophies to the winners.

Among the illustrious sons of Imo that were honoured was the former Interior Minister, Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho, who was presented with a life patron award, and other sons and daughters that had contributed immensely to the development of the towns and the state.

“I am really grateful to them and as I said earlier, it means greater responsibility on my part for our people, whatever I am doing, be it in my work, business, socially or otherwise, I will do it in a way that our people will benefit,” he said, adding that his “relationship with our people is excellent, the only problem we had then was, if you are a Minister, you are very busy almost all the time. It is even difficult to attend social/cultural function. Still Igbos who had the opportunity to see me or visit my office or even my house, we had a lot together. In addition, I also attend events as time permits espe-

cially Owerri events, as that comes first before that of other communities. Moreso, as God would have it, I made substantial effort in assisting our people as you can find out, in getting job opportunities, once such opportunities comes.

On his advise to the association, he said: “ I am most grateful to God and appreciate ISTDAL, we understand things are very difficult for most people in our society; some cannot because things are difficult and we remain in one place, we will keep on searching on how to improve our lot, I remain grateful to Ndigbo.

“Culture is a wonderful thing, it is what defines who we are, and what we have here today is Igbo culture on display, our dances, tradition, the way we interact, our social life, this is exactly who we are, and that is what we find time to demonstrate once in a year, through the staging of this carnival, it is a wonderful atmosphere here, we can see different things on display here including masquerade, this is really wonderful, looking at our people here well made up, representing different communities.”

On the state of things in the East with what ISTDAL is doing, how Ihenacho said, “If a man is suffer-

ing challenges and he is an incurable optimist, and likes to smile all the time, does that mean the problems are no more there? That is what you are seeing, no doubt we have the problem of unemployment, in Imo state and Igbo land in general, the problem of endemic poverty, the problem of poor quality education, the problem of Igbo youths (the men) not registering in universities as they used to, these are problems, but still that is not to say that we should be walking with long faces, we have to sit down and find out the appropriate policies that we can adopt to ensure that all those things are overcome.

According to him, “the Town Unions signify what you do in our culture, I cannot come here after receiving the honour, and not greet our people, and I cannot greet some and leave some, so I have to go round and greet all of them it is a way we do things in our culture. Any political undertone to your visitation of all Town Unions? Not at all.

The former secretary of ISTADAL also chairman of the day , Barr. Ogugua who presented the life patron award to the Interior minister said that Imo state town unions living in Lagos is the mother of all other Igbo town unions, “ our concern is happiness of the people, it is special almost all the people who have not seen themselves for a long time they are coming together . It is a unique day because it is silver jubilee celebration since the Association was formed in 1986, it is more unique because as go round the tents everybody is enjoying themselves.

34

TOURISM

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Ogba Zoological Garden, Nature Park, celebrates World Wildlife Day Andrew Iro Okungbowa

M

onday March 3 will go down in the history of the travel and tourism world, particularly for environmentalists and lovers of wildlife as a memorable and eventful day. It was the day that the world rolled out the red carpet and drums to celebrate and toast to the beauty and wonders of wildlife as it was the World Wildlife Day. Interestingly, it was the first time ever that the world would mark the day, which was officially proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly during its 68th session. The day chosen, March 3 is significant in that it was the same day that the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITIES) was adopted by the global body.

The day, which was marked under CITIES, was to celebrate and raise awareness of the world to wild fauna and flora. The environment and world’s eco-system, particularly the fauna and flora have been under threat over the centuries and this has become more pronounced in recent years as a result of various harmful activities of man, ranging from technological development to human consumption habits as well as the travel and tourism.

In its recent resolution, the UN reaffirmed the intrinsic value of wildlife and its various contributions, including ecological, genetic, social, economic, scientific, educational, cultural, recreational and aesthetic, to sustainable development and human well-being, and recognized the important role of CITES in ensuring that international trade dose not threaten the species’ survival.

It therefore, requested that CITES Secretariat, in collaboration with relevant organizations of the United Nations system, facilitate the implementation of World Wildlife Day. Heeding this call, CITIES on March 3 mobilised the about 179 members who are parties to its convention, related organizations and interested individuals from across the world to mark the day. CITIES Secretary-General, Mr. John E. Scanlon in his message, said the “World Wildlife Day is an ideal opportunity to celebrate the many beautiful and varied forms of wild fauna and flora and raise awareness of the multitude of benefits that conservation provides to people. At the same time, the Day reminds us of the urgent need to step up the fight against wildlife crime, which has wide-ranging economic, environmental and social impacts.”

Scanlon made a clarion call on everyone to mark the day: “We invite all members States, relevant organizations of the United Nations System as well as all other interested organizations and individuals –from airports to museums

Inside Ogba Zoo.

Andy Ehanire, organiser of the event

to schools – to get involved in this global celebration of wildlife.”

Nigeria is a member of CITIES; the country joined the world body on May 9, 1974 and signed on to its convention as a ‘party’ member on July 1, 1975. Since then, Nigeria has participated in the activities of the body in what many observers described as a ‘poorly and arrested’ manner through the Federal Ministry of Environment, the National Parks Service and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) among others.

The only place where there was celebration of any kind was in Benin City, Edo State as the management of the Ogba

World Wildlife Day is an ideal opportunity to celebrate the many beautiful and varied forms of wild fauna and flora and raise awareness of the multitude of benefits that conservation provides to people

Prof. Emmanuel Emovon, one of the speakers at the the event

Zoo under the leadership of Mr. Andy Ehanire, one of the forthright stakeholders in the tourism industry and a dogged environmentalist whose singular effort has kept the Ogba Zoo in the front burner, put together a gathering of like minds in honour of the World Wildlife Day. It was a befitting event and it couldn’t has held in a more appropriate place but within the massive complex of the zoo, which was a better way of calling attention not just only to the plight of the zoo, which as recounted by the management has in recent time faced serious and threatening challenges to its continued existence but also to the whole gamut of the wildlife and our threatened environment, which the day was met for.

Report from the maiden event stated that well over 1, 000 persons attended the event. The roll call included students, government officials, tourism stakeholders, environmental organizations, educationists, culture workers and environmentalists from across the city. Some of the revered personalities present included the former Minister of Science and Technology, Prof. Emmanuel U. Emovon, the former Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Ibadan and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Company Secretary, Prof. Yinka

Omorogbe.

The colourful celebration, which was formally declared opened by the Edo State Commissioner for the Environment, Prince Clem Agba featured among others, a symposium on threats to sustainable wildlife management with the theme: “If Animals Go, What Next.” Papers on the various aspects of the theme were presented by different speakers with Dr. Emelue of the Faculty of Foresty and Wildlife, University of Benin presenting the lead paper. There was also a poster exhibition on wildlife conservation precepts, which was declared open by the Edo State Commissioner for Tourism, Mrs. Aneena Jemitola.

An action plan, which called for the incorporation and regulations of hunters association to a new role in the conservation and preservation of wildlife, was unveiled while an artistically choreographed dance drama on hunters enthralled the audience.

In communiqué adopted at the end of the day – long event the participants decried the global assault on wildlife populations and habitats and the increasing challenges in sustainable wildlife management due to governance deficit arising from declining capacities, conflicts, ignorance and greed; called for the regeneration of traditional cultural relevant conservation practices such as sacred groves, seasonal harvesting, taboos, etc and for fresh concerted initiatives at creating new wildlife sanctuaries, in addition to conserving the existing ones; commended the new roles of incorporated registered hunters in conservation and the drive by its affiliate associations, for strict regulation of hunting up to local levels, calling on the authorities to urgently clamp down on wanton decapitation of wildlife species by poachers; and reiterated the call for the inclusion of conservation education in the curriculum of schools, bearing in mind its intrinsic values as a key tourism resource among others, in order to ‘catch them young’.

They also called on Edo State government to lend support to the pilot scheme for the first international wildlife rescue centre in the West Africa sub – region, being located at the state biological garden (Ogba Zoo) with its rare urban wildlife sanctuary, along specialized ancillary facilities; challenged scholars, researchers, legislators, policy makers, regulators, communities and other stakeholders to regain focus on international best practices in wildlife management, in order to generate fresh impetus for a attaining ecological integrity and progress; and commended the administration of Governor Adams Aliu Oshiomhole for its unwavering stance on protecting wildlife heritage of Edo State, together with its drive to build liveable cities and communities but requested that more synergy be forged with stakeholders for sustainability.

CRIME

35

NEW TELEGRAPH

newtelegraphonline.com/entrepreneur

JULIANA FRANCIS juliana.franci.durojaiye@newtelegraphonline.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2014

There’s no perfect crime, says police chief Juliana Francis

O

n January 10, 2014, a man was walking through one of the narrow bush paths at Abule-Oshun area of Lagos State, when he noticed the body of a young woman. The body was lying on the grass.

She looked like she was sleeping. She wore one of the minigowns in vogue. She also had bangles and a wristwatch adorning her two wrists. The brownish long weave-on, adorning her head, streamed down her back, away from her face. The morning sunlight danced on her face.

A closer look and nudge by the man revealed that she was dead. The man raced to the nearest police station, Onireke, to report his discovery.

Onireke Police Station was under Area E Police Command, Festac. The Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), in charge of that axis is Mr. Dan Okoro.

Immediately he was alerted, he deployed his men to the scene and instructed them to take ample crime scene pictures from all angles.

In the afternoon of that same day, a small crowd of worried family members besieged the Onireke Police Station, to report that their 26-year-old daughter, Ijeoma Nwachukwu, had not returned home since the previous day (January 11, 2014).

One of them gave a vivid description of Ijeoma and what she wore the last time she was seen.

The policemen shared secret and worried glances. They presented several pictures taken of the corpse of the girl found in the bush path.

The screech of pains and wailings which followed, was all the policemen needed to know that the missing girl and the corpse were the same person.

Nobody knew how Ijeoma died or how she got to the bush path, but homicide detectives attached to Area E Police Com-

The late Ijeoma. Inset: Ijeoma when she was alive

Christian

Manko

Cynthia

mand, were no novices, they knew that Ijeoma did not just leave her home to take a nap in

the bush path, where she was found dead.

Attempting to cover all angles,

the police asked the deceased’s family the last person that was seen with her. They all chorused,

Crime Quote

Our criminal justice system should be reformed in such a manner that would guarantee faster and impartial dispensation of justice to all concerned, regardless of their social status. A situation where these hoodlums are taken to court and a few weeks later, they are seen hovering around again in society is a big concern. The maxim, ‘Justice delayed is justice denied’ and ‘justice must not only be done, but seen to be done,’ should be the watch word.”------Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Umar Manko.

Joy. Miss. Joy was the victim’s best friend. Police invited Joy for a chat.

When Joy was told about the death of her friend, she could not believe her ears. She had left Ijeoma on January 11, 2014, the day before she died, hale and hearty.

She couldn’t fathom what could have gone wrong.

Sitting before the homicide detectives, in the small interrogation room, Joy revealed the details of her last meeting with Ijeoma.

She told the police: “We went to meet Ijeoma’s boyfriend, Christian Samuel, at the ASPAMDA Market. He’s an apprentice at Alaba International Market. It was in the market he met Ijeoma. She used to sell food with her step-mother. On that January 11, Christian bought a gallon of acid and gave it to Ijeoma. He asked Ijeoma to go and wait for him under the bridge. But he latCONTINUED ON PAGE 36

36

CRIME

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

There’s no perfect crime...

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

er told Ijeoma to tell me to leave. I remembered telling Ijeoma that the gallon Christian gave her to carry for him was acid. I left her under the bridge, waiting for Christian.”

After listening to Joy, police detectives knew that Christian might help in unravelling the the circumstances as of Ijeoma’s death.

Policemen went to the shop where Christian was an apprentice. They met his boss, who looked worried at the sight of the policemen. He told them that he sent Christian on an errand.

He suggested they waited since Christian would not be long.

“We were right there in the shop when he walked in. We arrested him. When his boss heard about the death of Ijeoma, the man said that might explain Christian’s behavior within the last 24 hours,” said one of the homicide detectives.

He continued: “He told us that for reasons he couldn’t fathom, Christian, 23, who had served him for five years and had just two years left to go, started agitating that he wanted to leave by weekend. He had only come to the shop to hand over some of the keys to his boss’ offices. He had already packed his belongings and would have left the following day.”

At the police station, Christian allegedly proved a hard nut to crack, insisting that he knew nothing about the death of his lover, but finally caved in under the heat of interrogation.

He told his interrogators that Ijeoma killed herself because he refused to accept her pregnancy.

He said she wanted to foist it on him. “I was late in closing shop that day and told Ijeoma to go and wait for me at an ice-cream joint, but she called back that the ice cream joint did not open that day. I told her to go and wait for me at Cossy-Inn Hotel. It was one of the hotels we used to frequent.

It was when I went there to join her that she told me about the pregnancy. But, I knew I had not had sex with her for the past six months without a condom. I knew the baby was not mine and told her so. I went downstairs to buy drinks, but before I came back, she had drunk the acid. I ran out of the hotel. I now know I was wrong, I should have waited and called the police.”

Police, however, believed that Christian painstakingly planned the murder of Ijeoma. This plan was supposedly hatched after he

Assistant Police Commissioner, Dan Okoro

discovered that Ijeoma travelled to the East with her family to have an Igbo traditional marriage introduction with another man.

Christian wanted to be sure and had approached the girl’s step-mum in her shop, asking for Ijeoma’s hand in marriage. The woman told him that she had already accepted, ‘drink from another guy as tradition demands for Ijeoma’s hand in marriage and would not accept any other drink or offer from Christian.’

Thus the rumour he heard was confirmed. He also reportedly told a girl-friend of Ijeoma, that he would deal with Ijeoma.

The girl was also one of the witnesses that told police the threat allegedly made by Christian.

On the fateful day of January 11, Christian bought the acid, went to where Ijeoma was selling and told her that they would be going out that day. He gave her the acid, which today, turned out to be the murder weapon, to keep for him.

Apparently, Joy wanted to wait for Ijeoma, but Christian seemed to sense this and allegedly called Ijeoma to tell her friend to leave.

A policeman said: “When they got to the hotel, he bought drinks and later sent Ijeoma downstairs to buy fried chicken. It was when she went to buy the chicken that he doped her drink with the acid.

She was still holding the chicken in one hand when her body was found by the hotel receptionist.

The receptionist was worried by the manner Christian fled the hotel and had gone to check the room.”

The stunned and scared receptionist had alerted his boss,

the Managing Director, Mr. Sango-Olusegun Tumo. Tumo had also alerted his younger brother, Ajibola Kehinde, who always seemed to know what to do in time of crises.

Kehinde suggested they moved the corpse out of the hotel. They bundled the corpse inside their car boot, drove for a while before hitting on the idea to dump the corpse in the bush path.

Christian said: “I have known Ijeoma since 2009. She was the one that approached me for a relationship and even initiated our first sexual encounter. I was too scared of my boss to start anything with her. When she travelled in December, I bought her clothes of N15, 000. I also gave her money, gave her mum and sister money too. I didn’t kill Ijeoma. I loved her so much. But if I must be killed for telling the truth, then I’m ready to die! Yes, I bought N400 acid, but it was for cleaning of the tiles in my master’s home! ” Investigators said they would use circumstantial evidence to nail Christian in court, since he had denied killing the girl. The autopsy result states that Ijeoma died of ‘strangulation’ and residue of ‘acid were in her.’

Police now believe she was strangled by Christian and then forced to drink the acid.

Christian has been remanded in the Ikoyi Prison by an Ebute Meta Magistrate’s Court.

Okoro, who monitored and guided the investigation, spoke with the New Telegraph, stressing, “There’s no perfect crime!

No matter how well you think you had planned it, something will always give the criminal

away!”

Using Christian and Ijeoma, a crime of passion as a case study, Okoro said: “Ijeoma was dating two men and it was dangerous.

She didn’t know Christian was planning to kill her. He said he won’t spend so much on her all these years, only to see her marry someone else. He said if he couldn’t have her, then no man could have her. You can’t perfect crime no matter how smart you’re!

“There must be traces left behind. Traces which any good investigator could use to unravel the crime. In the case of Christian and Ijeoma, Joy was that clue and trace. If not for Joy, nobody would have known that Christian took the girl to a hotel and abandoned her corpse there as she was dying and writhing in pain on the bed. Nobody would have known that he bought acid.”

Okoro, who was instrumental in the arrest of the killers of the legendary Cynthia Osokogu, the young student who was killed in July 2012, by some of her social media friends, explained that it was due to imperfection in crime planning and commission, that killers of Cynthia Osokogu were also nailed.

“In the case of Cynthia Osokogu, the killers meticulously removed everything from the hotel room where they killed her, but forgot the yellow vaccination card. The card is for those travelling out of the country. It was that singular yellow card that gave us the identity of Cynthia Osokogu that led to the eventual arrest of her killers.

“God used Joy to expose the imperfection in crime, just like the yellow card. Recently, a female lawyer was killed in Abuja. She was killed in her office after she received a call that her office was flooded with water.

They took everything from her, including her car, but forgot her phone. That phone led to the arrest of her killers. One of them was her worker and among her last callers!

“Ody Nweze, a businessman, was kidnapped and shot nine times at the Satellite Town. It was one of the phone calls that the killers made that led to their arrest.”

Okoro urged Nigerians never to cover any crime, but to report it, because it might take time, but police would eventually unravel the case.

He argued that cases not solved by FBI simply mean that; “The investigators had not taken time to study the

crime scene or case file properly! It’s the same thing in Nigeria. We can solve any case if we take time to study the case. There must always be traces. It’s only God who can perfect a mission on earth!”

CRIME TITBITS

Judge finds cocaine on defendant

D

rug possession defendant, Christopher Jansen, on trial in March in Pontiac, Michigan, said he had been searched without a warrant.

The prosecutor said the officer didn’t need a warrant because a “bulge” in Christopher’s jacket could have been a gun. Nonsense, said Christopher, who happened to be wearing the same jacket that day in court. He handed it over so the judge could see it.

The judge discovered a packet of cocaine in the pocket and laughed so hard he required a five minute recess to compose himself.

Smart motorist caught

A

motorist was unknowingly caught in an automated speed trap that measured his speed using radar and photographed his car. He later received in the mail a ticket for $40 and a photo of his car. Instead of payment, he sent the police department a photograph of $40. Several days later, he received a letter from the police that contained another picture of handcuffs. The motorist promptly sent the money for the fine.

Car thief arrested via fake advert

A

woman was reporting her car as stolen and mentioned that there was a car phone in it. The policeman taking the report called the phone and told the guy that answered that he had read the ad in the newspaper and wanted to buy the car. They arranged to meet, and the thief was arrested.

BUSINESS FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2014

What's news Nigerian operations impact Etisalat group Etisalat, United Arab Emirates' biggest telecoms operator’s fourth-quarter operations have been hit by impairments on Nigerian and Indonesian operations.

}p-38

Nigeria, Indonesia have world's highest deforestation rates Nigeria, Indonesia and North Korea have the world's highest rates of deforestation, risk analysis and mapping company, Maplecroft said in a report that ranked 180 countries.

}p-39

Rethinking agriculture for youths We have had with us for a long time this knotty problem of subsistence farming by small holder farmers. We are gradually putting this aside.

}p-40

‘Agribusiness is good investment' Adenuga Adedeji, 24, studied Animal Production and Health at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. He is currently running a post graduate programme in Animal Science with bias in Animal Nutrition and Biochemistry at the University of Ibadan.

}p-41

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) JONAH IBOMA, ICT Editor DAYO ADEYEMI, Property Editor ADEOLA YUSUF, Energy Editor

ayodele aminu, Deputy Editor, business

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

COMPENSATION Telecom subscriber group seek compensation for customers.

Jonah Iboma

U

ncertainty is set to hang over the latest fine slammed on mobile network operators by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers, (NATCOMS) has gone to court seeking a determination of an earlier suit it instituted against operators seeking compensation for subscribers over poor services.

The President of NATCOMS, Chief Deola Ogunbanjo, said the association felt the case it had earlier instituted against operators since October 2013 in which it wanted operators to pay every subscriber N10,000 for poor services had to be determined first before another fine could be paid to the NCC by the same operators for a similar offence .

Effectively, the group, he said feels that NCC is the one benefitting from subscribers’ woes rather than subscribers.

Details of the suit made available to Daily Telegraph showed that the case was filed on March 4th at the High Court in Lagos.

INCC had last month, slammed a total fine of N647.5 million on three major mobile network operators, Airtel, Globacom and MTN Nigeria, for failing to meet the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for quality of service in the month of January 2014. NCC has also

L-R: Registrar, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Uju Ogubunka; Executive Director, Mainstreet Bank, Anogwi Anyanwu; Executive Director, Risk Management & Control, Diamond Bank, Caroline Anyanwu and Former Director, Currency Operations, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Ben Onyido at the Committee of Heads of Bank Operations (CHBO) Annual Dinner in Lagos.

barred Airtel, Globacom and MTN Nigeria from selling SIM cards and from embarking on sales promotions in their networks until they improved on their services.

The details of the sanction showed that Airtel Network Ltd, and MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd, are to pay a fine of N185 Million each while Globacom Ltd is liable

to the tune of N277,500.

In addition, each of the operators must pay the sanction amount on or before March 7, 2014, failure upon which each will be liable to pay N2,500,000 per day as long as the contravention persists.

Reuben Muoka, Head, Media & Public Relations, NCC, said that the sanctions, which were communicated

to the three operators in a letter signed by Dr. Eugene Juwah, executive vice chairman of the Commission, explained that the Commission will carry out an audit of the three companies on March 1, 2014 and also on March 31st, 2014, to ensure that no sale of new SIM cards takes place C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 3 8

Insurers mull investment in power sector PROSPECT Insurers are looking at the huge investment opportunities in power sector.

Sunday Ojeme

A

s more investors take interest in Nigeria’s power sector, some insurance operators are equally strategising to benefit more from the process by looking beyond

providing cover for the investors. This decision, which is still in the works, is predicated on the huge opportunities that the power sector is making available to interested parties.

New Telegraph gathered on Wednesday that some of the operators who have the wherewithal would work towards investing in the energy sector rather than limit themselves to providing cover for equipment, personnel as well as other entities within the

value chain.

The decision by the underwriters may not be unconnected with President Goodluck Jonathan’s call on financial institutions to delve into the sector that has over 300 investors lined up. The latest in this league is Azura Power Group, which has earmarked about $1 billion for boosting power supply from the current 4,000 megawatts to 7,000 megawatts before the end of 2014.

C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 3 8

Rates Dashboard

DELE ALAO, Brands/Marketing Editor CHRIS UGWU, Capital Market Editor

INFLATION RATE

Abdulwahab Isa, Finance Editor

January 2014 ...........................8.00% December 2013.......................8.00% November 2013..........................7.90%

Nnamdi Amadi, Reporter

www.newtelegraphonline.com/business

Subscriber group sues NCC over fine against operators

WOLE SHADARE, Aviation Editor

Chuks Onuanyin, Energy

NEW TELEGRAPH

PenCom recovers N13.3bn unremitted deductions }p-43

LENDING RATE InterBank Rate. . . . . . . . . . . 10.75% Prime Lending Rate. . . . . . 17.01% Maximum Lending Rate. .24.90%

EXCHANGE RATE

(Parellel As at Feb. 28)

USD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N172 Pounds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N286 Euro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N236

EXCHANGE RATE

(Official As at Feb. 28)

USD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N156.75 Pounds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N261.96 Euro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N234

38 business | NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Nigerian operations impact Etisalat group IMPAIRMENT Etisalat group had charges totaling $373 million, of which about $140.5 million related to loans to Etisalat Nigeria Jonah Iboma

E

tisalat, United Arab Emirates' biggest telecoms operator’s fourthquarter operations have been hit by impairments on Nigerian and Indonesian operations.

Although the telecoms operator recorded a 70 per cent rise in fourth-quarter net profit, it missed analysts' forecasts, according to report it released on its fourth quarter performance.

Etisalat which operates in about 15 countries across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, made a net profit of $394.77 million in the three months

• Posts $394.7m profit

to December 31, 2013.

The Chief Finance Officer, Etisalat, Serkan Okandan, said that the firm had impairment charges totaling about $373 million, of which about $140.5 million related to loans to its affiliate, Etisalat Nigeria, in which it holds a 40 per cent stake.

Overall, Etisalat’s foreign operations accounted for 33 per cent of the revenue in 2013, up from 28 per cent a year earlier. The rising foreign revenue came despite a 6.6 per cent decline in earnings from Egypt, which was due to the falling value of the Egyptian pound.

Okandan, however, said that in local currency terms, its Egyptian revenue actually rose about 6 per cent.

He added that Etisalat's 2013 full-year net profit rose to about $2.12 billion from $1.84 billion a year earlier, ac-

cording to a statement to Abu Dhabi's bourse. The company had 148 million subscribers at the end of 2013, an increase of 9 million from a year earlier.

Annual revenue rose by 18 per cent to $10.59 bilion. Operating expenses climbed 26 per cent to 6.72 billion, which Okandan said was largely due to higher handset sales.

Handsets offer little profit margin, but Gulf operators are increasingly using smart phone sales to sign up customers to monthly contracts.

People on such contracts usually spend more on telecom services and are less likely to switch providers.

Etisalat spent about $1.72 billion last year on new licenses, improving and expanding its networks, Okandan added.

The company also said it expected to complete a 3.9 billion euro purchase of Paris-listed Vivendi's 53 per cent stake in

Special Adviser to Lagos State governor on Eko Project, Mrs. Ronke Azeez (left), presenting an award to Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC)’s Public Affairs Manager, Lagos and West, Ms. Ifeoma Okoye, for the company’s commitment to the ‘Lagos State Support Our School Initiative’ in 2013.

Subscriber group sues NCC over fine against operators C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 7

in any of the three networks within the period.

The letter made reference to an earlier directive of December 10, 2013, which warned the operators that “if the Quality of Service does not improve by 31st December, 2013, the Commission will be compelled to direct operators to, among others, suspend the activation of new SIMs and subscribers un-

til such an operator can prove that it has met the Key Performance Indicators specified in the Regulations”.

According to Dr. Juwah, “The Commission after careful collation of statistics from the Network Operating Centres, NOC, of all major networks operators for the month of January 2014, has concluded that the service provided by some of the operators during the period fell below the Key

Performance Indicators published by the Commission in the Quality of Service Regulations, as amended”.

Details of the sanction also indicated that Airtel failed on Call Setup Success Rate, CSSR, and SDCONG, while MTN failed on Call Setup Success Rate, CSSR and Drop Call Rate, DCR. On its part, Globacom failed on Call Setup Success Rate, CSSR, Drop Call Rate, DCR, and SDCONG.

Maroc Telecom , plus 300 million euros in 2012 dividends from the Moroccan firm, by end-May. "Since international subsidiaries are growing faster than the UAE, we're expecting that to improve by a few (percentage) points," said Okandan.

As part of that overseas expansion, Okandan told Reuters that the Maroc Telecom deal, agreed in November, should go through before the end of May, as long as regulatory approval from the countries where the firm operates was forthcoming.

Insurers mull investment in power sector C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 7

As at 2013, some Deposit Money Banks had invested over N750billion since the commencement of the privatisation exercise in the sector. The banks’ resolve came as the Federal Government wooed both local and international investors into the sector that is expected to gulp about $900 billion out of a total of $2.9 trillion needed for infrastructure developmental efforts in the next 30 years.

The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Diamond Bank Plc, Dr. Alex Otti, had described the Federal Government’s determination to improve electricity supply as good motivation to invest in the sector.

The Chairman, LASACO Assurance Plc, Engr. Ashim Oyekan, said during the company’s annual general meeting (AGM) that the huge private investments in power sector were expected to stimulate and expand appreciably the domestic economy.

He said, “The gains from this economic growth should trickle down to the common man, increasing his purchasing power and improving his standard of living.

“We expect that the healthy economic environment thus created will heighten awareness and demand for insurance. We will leverage our expertise to create insurance products that will meet all such needs.

Speaking with New Telegraph, The Director-General, Nigerian Insurers Association, Mr. Sunday Thomas, said as much as the insurers were prepared to participate in the process both as underwriters and partners, sustainability of investment should also be of utmost concern.

He said, “It is expected that the huge investment in the sector would benefit the

country as a whole, not just the underwriters alone. But I believe beyond just providing cover, we would rather be partners in the process. The level of capital in the insurance sector now can enable them collaborate with other major investors in the power sector.

Now we have companies doing business in billions. Such organisations can conveniently participate in the process within the law beyond just providing insurance cover.

“Beyond being investors with huge amount of funds, it is also expected that investment in the sector would reduce the cost of doing business. More money will be saved, and that will translate to having more policyholders.”

In his view, the Managing Director, Risk Guard Africa Nigeria Limited, Chief Yemi Soladoye, noted that although the areas insurance companies could invest in had already been stipulated by the regulator, insurers could also participate in the process without, however, putting the policyholders or shareholders’ funds at risks.

He said: “The areas to be invested in are stipulated by law.

The objective is to make sure people don’t go into randy investments that will put the premium in danger. Those in life business, for instance, cannot invest in such. In the industry there is what is called admissible investment areas and nonadmissible investment areas.

“Three things are always considered when taking investment decisions; they are safety, diversity and yield.

However, as much as the premiums are to be guarded against any form of risks, nothing stops any insurer from investing in power or any other sector if he runs into billions. Such investment should, however, not be outside the knowledge of the regulator.”

business | AGRIC 39

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Wood business is a lucrative venture, yet Nigeria is number one destroyer of primary forests in the world, according to the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), writes Siaka Momoh

Saving the woods

I

f you think those logs floating on the Lagos Lagoon, along Ebute Metta axis, constitute a nuisance, you dare not say this to the ears of the owners who know what timber means to their purse.

But deforestation is a headache in this industry. It accounts for 87 per cent of total carbon emissions in Nigeria and its wide biodiversity of 899 species of birds, 274 mammals, 154 reptiles, 53 amphibians and 4,715 species of higher plants, will also be strongly affected by the negative impacts of deforestation.

Ask the Gabonese government and you will appreciate the importance of timber business to an economy. Olam International, which is currently partnering with Gabon in the development of its wood industry, has sweet stories to tell about the business too. This writer was in Gabon and saw it all happen.

Gabon is currently engaged in sustainable management of its forest resources.

The country has one million hectares of forestry registered under sustainable management permits, including over one third which has received international certificates (FSC, OLB, Keurhout and ISO). Forestry is the main private sector employer in Gabon, accounting for 30,000 jobs. Timber exports are the second largest source of income, accounting for about 6 per cent of GNP. But Gabon now wants to emphasise value added production by seeking to industrialise its wood sector dedicating 1000 hectares to wood processing in its Nkok Special Economic Zone.

The country is currently involved in what it calls Gabon Emergent, something akin to Nigeria’s Transformation Agenda.

The early results of this initiative are already visible, according to government sources.

In 2009, Gabon experienced negative growth of -1.4 per cent due to lower demand for oil, combined with a slowdown of domestic economic activity following the death of President Omar Bongo, father of the incumbent president. This rose to 6.3 per cent (according to IMF source) in 2010, with inflation consistently in decline in recent years, limited to 1.5 per cent, reflecting a proactive policy in favour of public investment, a rebound in mining activities, the increase in oil prices and a sharp increase in foreign direct investment.

Gabon’s GDP fell from 14.2 per cent in 2008 to 10.85 per cent in 2009, but rose to 13.05 per cent in 2010 while 2011’s estimate is 16.77 per cent. GDP annual change was 2.3 per cent 2008, -1.4 per cent 2009, 5.6 2010 and 2011 estimate is 5.5 per cent. GDP per capital which was $9,993 in 2008 was $8724

Log being rolled in from the Lagoon at Okobaba, Lagos

FAO records show that between 2000 and 2005, Nigeria lost 55.7 per cent of its primary forests, defined as forests with no visible signs of past or present human activities in 2010 and 2011 estimate was $11,045. Inflation rate was 5.2 per cent in 2008, 1.8 per cent 2009, 1.5 per cent 2010 and estimate for 2011 is 2.3 per cent.

Despite all these, Nigeria remains the number one destroyer of primary forests in the world, according to the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO). Nigeria has as companions Indonesia and North Korea, but tops the table.

FAO records show that between 2000 and 2005, Nigeria lost 55.7 per cent of its primary forests, defined as forests with no visible signs of past or present human activities. Logging, subsistence agriculture and the collection of fuel wood are cited as leading causes of forest clearing in Nigeria.

The FAO report shows that primary forests are being replaced by less-biodi-

verse plantations and secondary forests.

It argues that due to a significant increase in plantation forests, forest cover has generally been expanding in North America, Europe and China while diminishing in the tropics. Industrial logging, conversion for agriculture (commercial and subsistence), fuel-wood collection by rural poor and forest fires, often purposely set by people, are responsible for the bulk of global deforestation today, the report says.

Deforestation is a process where vegetation is cut down without any simultaCONTINUED ON PAGE 40

Nigeria, Indonesia, N/Korea have world’s highest deforestation rates

N

igeria, Indonesia and North Korea have the world's highest rates of deforestation, while China and the United States, the top two greenhouse gas polluters, have the lowest, risk analysis and mapping company, Maplecroft, said in a report that ranked 180 countries, Asian News has reported.

Maplecroft used the latest data from the United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to calculate changes to the overall forest cover, and in primary and planted forests, be-

tween 2005 and 2010. Those at the top are ranked extreme risk countries, such as Cambodia (9th) and Australia (10th).

In Indonesia, about one million hectares of forest are lost per year. That is about 13 times the size of Singapore, with palm oil expansion accounting for 16 per cent of deforestation.

Jakarta, (Indonesia), in May, began a two-year moratorium on new licences to clear primary forests and peat-lands with regular satellite surveillance to monitor the ban.

Nigeria lost over 2 million hectares

of forest a year between 2005 and 2010, driven by agricultural expansion, logging and infrastructure development.

“Deforestation can also hamper efforts for a country to reduce their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions as forests play a key role in mitigating global climate change through carbon sequestration,” Maplecroft analyst, Arianna Granziera, said.

What is more, deforestation is disrupting the climate cycle and is responCONTINUED ON PAGE 40

40 BUSINESS |agric

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Rethinking agriculture for youths

Youths farmers at work

initiative Since our farmers are aging, youths must take their place.

W

e have had with us for a long time this knotty problem of subsistence farming by small holder farmers. We are gradually putting this aside.

This is coming with the entering into the agriculture space by school graduates – graduates of tertiary institutions and experienced investors who now realise that agriculture is the sector to invest in. This is rethinking agriculture in practice.

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development’s ‘Nagropreneur’ project

comes in here. Nagropreneur is the ministry’s initiative created to address the challenge of ageing farmers and the insecurity that this poses, as a way of addressing rising youth unemployment. It is meant to grow a new generation of young commercial farmers that will help transform the agricultural sector - and feed Nigeria today and well into the future.

The programme, Youth in Agric-Business, is designed to raise one million young farmers by 2015, who would take agriculture as a profession and business.

At the launch in Abuja recently, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Akinwumi Adesina, explained that considering the competitive nature of global agricultural

markets, with changing technologies, demands for quality and standards, there was the need to change labour composition of the agricultural sector from the ageing population to the vibrant and energetic ones.

For him, the agricultural sector requires new skills, younger and more entrepreneurial farmers, who will be able to compete at the global scale. He said these entrepreneurs must be versed in business, to be able to run sound agric-business that will make Nigeria’s agriculture modern, commercial and profitable.

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) Agriculture Policy Commission is currently growing this government initiative. At its meeting in Lagos on Thursday last week, members of the Commission brain-

Saving the woods C O NTIN U E D F R O M PA G E 3 9

neous replanting for economic or social reasons. It has negative implications on the environment in terms of soil erosion, loss of biodiversity ecosystems, loss of wildlife and increased desertification, among many other reasons.

It also has impacts on social aspects of the country, specifically regarding economic issues, agriculture, conflict and a lot of damage has been done to Nigeria’s land through the processes of deforestation, notably contributing to the overwhelming trend of desertification.

A study conducted from 1901 to 2005 revealed that there was a temperature increase in Nigeria of 1.1°C, while the global mean temperature increase was only 0.74°C. The same study also found in the same period that the amount of rainfall in the country decreased by 81mm. It was noticed that both of these trends simultaneously had sharp changes in the 1970s. From 1990 to 2010, Nigeria nearly halved its amount of forest cover, moving from 17,234 to 9041 hectares. The combination of extremely high deforestation rates, increased temperatures and decreasing rainfall are all contributing to the desertifica-

tion of the country.

Records show that the carbon emissions from deforestation is also said to account for 87 per cent of total carbon emissions of the country and that Nigeria’s wide biodiversity of 899 species of birds, 274 mammals, 154 reptiles, 53 amphibians and 4,715 species of higher plants will also be affected by the negative impacts of deforestation.

Available data also show that the numbers of the rare Cross River gorilla have decreased to around 300 individuals because of poaching by locals and mass habitat destruction.

Although much of the mo-

stormed on how to make the project work. The meeting was presided over by Emmanuel Ijewere, the Agric Policy Commission’s chairman.

The need to sensitise the youth to embrace agriculture was stressed and the following missing links identified: Youths

are not attracted to agriculture; need for training of youths; players in the agriculture sector must be ready to employ youths, government must make the agriculture sector conducive for investment.

A point was made by one of the participants in the palm oil production business. He disclosed that youths shunned his company’s invitation to come into farming in the past. “Our youths do not want to work. Nobody wants to work, but agric is work. It is an attitude thing,” he said.

Ijewere cited the case of an event attended by over 2000 youths held at the Airport Hotel where he was speaker. At the end, according to him, he got response via email/telephone from just three of them! Thus the need for sensitisation is very valid.

It was noted at the gathering that seminars don’t work. Youths need mentoring, it was argued.

Other points made are that there must be education first; testimonies will ginger them; farmers clubs in schools and school farms should be revived; students of the department of agriculture in the universities and polytechnics should be targeted for the project.

And of course, private sector stakeholders should be the driver.

They should take government along.

Nigeria, others have world’s highest deforestation rates C O NTIN U E D F R O M PA G E 3 9

sible for at least 10 per cent of mankind’s annual greenhouse gas pollution.

Extreme-risk countries are losing plant and animal species that help provide clean air from forests, watersheds for rivers and mangroves that protect coastlines, assets that help underpin economies.

Although China is a leading greenhouse gas emitter, it has also adopted policies to halt detivation of deforestation stems from economic reasons, it has also led to economic problems in an already unstable country.

Along with economic issues, deforestation has made it so that the land is incapable of as much agricultural production which is part of many people’s survival.

No doubt, government department in charge of forestry should be held culpable for its failure to implement any forest management policies in efforts to curb deforestation since the 1970s. Very few steps have been taken to try to lower the deforestation rates and stop illegal

forestation through replanting and reforestation and aggressive laws protecting land from expanding agricultural and industrial use.

Also, Beijing is driving deforestation elsewhere. “China’s demand for wood is fuelling increasing imports, much of which comes from the US and Canada, but illegal imports from Brazil, Cambodia and other developing countries have been reportedly increasing,’ Granziera noted. logging.

How do we make amends?

Any solution to the problem of deforestation in Nigeria must be an approach that incorporates and aggressively targets all aspects that are related to the problem. We must start thinking of areas of energy alternatives, improved technology, forestry management, economic production, agriculture and security of the locals that are dependent on the land. One aspect that is very crucial is the need to vigorously engage in replanting of trees that have been cut down. We must do this now to avoid disaster.

business | AGRIC

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

41

Agribusiness is good investment, but must be done rightly –Youth farmer Story of a fervent young graduate farmer who operates a fish farm business in Ijebu Ode Siaka Momoh

A

denuga Adedeji, 24, studied Animal Production and Health at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. He is currently running a post graduate programme in Animal Science with bias in Animal Nutrition and Biochemistry at the University of Ibadan. His father’s link with agriculture aroused his interest.

Motivation “My motivation for Agriculture was from my father who then was working with the Sunvit Agroindustrial Company Limited, Agenebode, Edo State. Sunvit is of the Leventis group. They had a cropduster airplane used for spraying and planting rice paddy then. My interest grew whenever we travelled to the farm for vacation. Naturally, while filling my Jamb form, I chose Veterinary Medicine and Animal production and Health. For friends and relations, it was one of mixed feelings, but my parents gave me their support all through.”

For Adenuga, the interest had always been there. So, during holidays and strike periods, his parents encouraged him to visit neighbouring farms to acquire practical experience in poultry, piggery and aquaculture. And immediately after his first degree examination, he enrolled

in an aquaculture farm, Felimar Aquaculture Center, to do menial jobs without pay so that he could acquire knowledge about the rudiments of farming. There he acquired the necessary skills and zeal Adenuga at work. for fish farming.

Funding “When I started the farm, the support and initial startup came from my parents and then as the farm expanded, I took loan from my church cooperative. During a particular farmers’ registration exercise and enlightenment in my locality, I attended and met the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Ibukun Odusote, who got interested in what I was doing. Her Ministry supported me with three smoking kilns.”

The farm Adenuga’s farm is on a three-plot land

Agriculture will soon be like acting and entertainment where we have so many youths now making waves in Nigeria and Africa

housing 14 concrete ponds of different sizes with total capacity of about 15-ton live weight catfish per cycle, a modern hatchery that can produce 10,000 fingerlings and a processing shed for packaged smoke catfish.

His plan for the project is to convert his present site to full scale fingerlings production outfit that will serve him and other farmers around with good quality fingerlings.

Said he: “The plan is to expand the farm to about five hectares of land containing about 100 earthen ponds, cassava and plantain plantation and also diversify into rearing of livestock. I currently have Kalahari goats from South Africa which I purchased from Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) and I intend to start a breeding project in upgrading Nigerian indigenous breeds.”

Government policy Adenuga recalled that the story of Vincent Mapeta, a South African, made him realise that policy and support from government can improve lives of farmers,

increase food productions and create jobs for youths. “This will make agriculture a profitable venture that will encourage the youth. If the transformation agenda of government can also follow this template, that is getting young people involved in agriculture through training, making lands available (Vincent Mapeta got access to about 40 hectares of land) and funds for young farmers’ expansion initiative), then our success story in Nigeria and Africa will be assured.”

Mentoring For him, mentoring helps ensure success of any business.

He said: “I didn’t make many mistakes because I had access to mentoring.

This is important for sharing problems and ideas with colleagues or peers in the business. Agriculture will soon be like acting and entertainment where we have so many youths now making waves in Nigeria and Africa. What they need are change agents that they can relate with.

Agribusiness is good investment, but it must be done rightly.

Trees, forests provide more than just food They can enhance soils, protect biodiversity, preserve precious water supplies, and even help reduce the impacts of climate change Danielle Nierenberg

M Forests... help reduce the impacts of climate change.

ost people know that foods like mangos, tamarinds, and avocados grow on trees, but what many consumers don’t realise is that trees and forests provide more than just food—they can enhance soils, protect biodiversity, preserve precious water supplies, and even help reduce the impacts of climate change.

A recent report published

by Bioversity International, the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), the World

Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), and Charles Sturt University, explains how trees and forests can play a big role in sustainable diets. Unfortunately, cultural factors and limited data about food production from forests inhibit policy-makers, farmers, scientists and eaters from understanding the various benefits of agroforestry.

According to the report, forests contribute to the livelihoods of over 1.6 billion people.

Yet, 30 per cent of the world’s forests are used primarily for production of wood products.

Agroforestry is an integrated approach incorporating crops,

livestock, shrubs, and trees.

These practices help landowners diversify products and income while improving soil and water quality.

“Food from the forest offers essential nutrients like iron, vitamin A and zinc - often lacking from diets in developing countries,” says Amy Ickowitz, a scientist with the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR).

Bush meat or wild meat, for example, is the main source of animal protein in many tropical forested areas. Meat from birds, CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

42 BUSINESS | AGRIC

Documentary exposes child slavery in West Africa’s cocoa plantations

B

ritain’s love affair with chocolate is fuelling child slavery in West Africa, as laid bare by a shocking new documentary, Associated Newspaper has reported.

The chocolate industry is worth £66 billion globally and the Ivory Coast is the world’s cocoa largest producer.

But across Ivory Coast, cocoa is grown on family plantations, each typically only a few hectares.

The small parcels of land are handed down through generations, each son struggling to make ends meet, just like his father before him.

This crippling poverty forces families to use young children for cocoa production - a dangerous occupation even for an adult.

Children use dangerous tools and machinery, haul beans across long distances, work long hours and are exposed to pesticides and other potentially hazardous agricultural chemicals with no protective clothings. Much of the danger arises from swinging heavybladed machetes.

There have been reports of children with terrible leg wounds from harvesting. Many are imprisoned on farms and savagely beaten if they try to escape.

Some are under 11 years old.

News broadcaster, Cable News Network (CNN), which investigated the issue of child labour involved in the chocolate industry in ‘Chocolate’s Child Slaves,’ has produced a new documentary tittled Cocoa-nomics.

Child labour in cocoa plantation

Trees, forests provide more than just food C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 4 1

wild pigs, and small rodents is often the only source of vitamin B12, vitamin D, and iron for some communities, including Madagascar, where the loss of bush meat would result in a 29 per cent increase in iron deficiency anemia in children.

Forest food is also socially and culturally important to many societies. But, whether forest food is actually consumed depends on local trends and practices, says the report.

For example, in sub-Saharan Africa, fiori berries could provide children their required iron intake, but the berries are rarely eaten. In other regions, forest foods such as marula and mongongo, are not consumed because there is no knowledge about their nutritional make-up.

According to Barbara Vinceti of Bioversity International, “promoting the necessary behavioral

change to use and consume what are often considered inferior foods remains one of the biggest challenges.”

The Bioversity International report suggests that the constraints of agroforestry need to be removed. The authors suggest increasing awareness and knowledge on nutritious forest foods into national strategies.

Additionally, farmers, eaters, and policy makers should be educated on the resilience, health, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of food forests.

The success of agroforestry in Peru, Mali, India and other countries is the topic of discussion at the World Agroforestry Conference this week in Delhi, India. The conference hopes to accelerate the use of trees in agriculture and the landscape to support a growing population.

Danielle Nierenberg is cofounder of Foodtank

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Coffee, sugar prices hold near multi-month highs

A

rabica coffee and raw sugar futures traded near multi-month highs on Tuesday, underpinned by deteriorating crop prospects due to drought in Brazil, the top producer of both crops, according to Reuters.

“Droughts in Brazil tend to occur in October/November, when the rains don’t return on time. We’ve never had a situation where we’ve had such a prolonged drought during the height of the rainy season in January/February,” a European analyst said.

May arabica coffee futures on ICE rose 1.65 cents or 0.9 per cent to $1.78 per lb by 1542 GMT, just below the previous session’s 16-month high of $1.7935.

Arabica coffee prices are currently about 50 per cent above levels traded a month ago, when Brazil was expected to produce a crop of 51-60 million 60-kg bags.

“We could have easily lost five to 10 per cent of the crop,” the analyst said.

“March is the last month of the rainy season. If we have a dry March, then it could be a catastrophe.”

Dealers and analysts said the dry weather would impact not only the 2014/15 crop, but would also curb 2015/16 output.

“Rain at this time of year not only helps the development of

Coffee beans. Inset: Coffee tea

Rain at this time of year not only helps the development of cherries on trees, it also generates branch growth for the following crop,” the analyst added cherries on trees, it also generates branch growth for the following crop,” the analyst added.

May robusta coffee futures on Liffe were up $11 or 0.6 per cent at $2,014 a ton.

Sugar cut Raw sugar futures on ICE edged higher, with March up 0.22 cents or 1.3 per cent at 17.63 cents a lb, after peaking at 17.69 cents earlier in the session, the highest price for the front month since November 2013.

Brazil’s drought is also cut-

ting its sugar crop prospects.

The world’s largest sugar and ethanol trader Copersucar forecast a 7 per cent fall in 2014/15 output.

“The ISO still believes that it is too early to introduce a massive adjustment to Brazil’s forecast production in 2014/15. We still suggest the Centre South is to harvest about 590 million tons in 2014/15 as against 595 in the previous season,” Sergey Gudoshnikov, a senior economist of the International Sugar Organisation said.

Agricultural Commodity Prices Grains Commodity

Units

Price

Change

% Change

Contract

Time(ET)

CBOT Corn

USd/bu.

474.50

+11.00

+2.37%

May 14

09:58:17

CBOT Wheat

USd/bu.

633.50

+31.25

+5.19%

May 14

09:59:02

CBOT Oats

USd/bu.

475.75

+13.25

+2.86%

May 14

09:55:15

CBOT Rough Rice

USD/cwt

15.63

-0.01

-0.03%

May 14

09:46:43

CBOT Soybeans

USd/bu.

1,425.25

+11.25

+0.80%

May 14

09:59:12

CBOT Soybean Meal

USD/st

459.00

+1.30

+0.28%

May 14

09:59:30

CBOT Soybean Oil

USd/lb.

42.60

+0.81

+1.94%

May 14

09:59:00

ICE Canola

CAD/mt

437.50

+7.60

+1.77%

May 14

09:59:45

Softs Commodity

Units

Price

Change

% Change

Contract

Time(ET)

ICE Cocoa

USD/mt

2,915.00

-42.00

-1.42%

May 14

09:58:29

ICE Coffee "C"

USd/lb.

178.35

-1.95

-1.08%

May 14

09:59:10

ICE Sugar #11

USd/lb.

17.91

+0.25

+1.42%

May 14

09:58:59

ICE Orange Juice Conc

USd/lb.

146.10

-0.65

-0.44%

May 14

09:52:35

ICE Cotton #2

USd/lb.

86.91

-0.23

-0.26%

May 14

09:59:51

SFE Greasy Wool

cents/kg

1,027.00

0.00

0.00%

Apr 14

00:05:27

CME Lumber

USD/tbf

352.20

-2.30

-0.65%

May 14

16:07:54

TOCOM Rubber

JPY/kg

225.00

+0.30

+0.13%

Aug 14

04:59:59

CME Ethanol

USD/gal.

2.27

+0.05

+2.16%

Apr 14

09:42:14

Commodities trade on different exchanges with different trading sessions. Change always shows from the previous close price.

Quotes delayed, except where indicated otherwise. All prices in local currency. Time is ET. Source: Bloomberg

business | PENSION

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

43

PenCom recovers N13.33bn unremitted deductions

Pensioners under the old pension scheme being revived after slumping while awaiting verification and payment

retrieved National Pension Commission reclaims pension from noncompliant employers Sunday Ojeme

T

he National Pension Commission has recovered a total of N13.33 billion from employers who defaulted in remitting pension deductions from their employees under the new Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

The amount includes interests calculated along with the principal sum.

The recovery, according to a document made available to New Telegraph by the commission, is as a sequel to the engagement of 173 accounting and legal firms as recovery agents for the exercise.

During the recovery exercise, it was established that 15,427 employers failed to remit pension contributions to their employees’ Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) for various periods between January 2010 and December 2011.

Subsequently, the non-compliant employers were distributed among the RAs to recover the outstanding contributions.

As at the end of September 2013, RAs established outstanding pension contributions and interest penalties of N13.33 billion against 335 private sector employers.

Subsequently, an approval was granted by PenCom for the RAs to serve demand notices to the affected employers, which resulted in the recovery of N335.84 million and an interest penalty of N31.04 million as at end of September 2013.

Since the inception of the scheme in 2006, many private sector employers have refused to register their employees for the scheme, thereby denying them the opportunity of contributing towards their pensions. In other cases, some of the employers who registered their workers have been deducting the pension funds without remitting same to any PFA. The Commission, however, noted that in furtherance of its compliance efforts, it would soon commence the issuance of notice of intention to prosecute the employers that failed to remit the outstanding pension contributions and interest penalty.

It also revealed that as at September 30, 2013, the total registration of contributors stood at 5.83 million with the public (comprising federal and state government employees)

and the private sector accounting for 2.95 million (50.55 per cent) and 2.88 million (49.45 per cent) respectively.

The Federal Government had transferred N406.21 billion into the Retirement Benefit Bond Redemption Fund Account (RBBRFA) kept and managed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) between June 2004 and September 2013. In addition, PenCom had advised the CBN to release N402.39 billion into 76,782 RSAs of retirees/deceased employees of the FGN. According to the commission, the total pension contributions so far released by the Office of the AccountantGeneral of the Federation (OAGF) amounted to N805.52 billion out of which N767.65 billion had been remitted to PFAs covering the pension contributions paid into 914,050 RSAs (including retirees and deceased) of employees of treasury funded by Federal Government’s Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) from

inception to August 2013. The disbursements were done by the CBN after due verification of contributors’ documentary evidences by PenCom. The commission also revealed that, “The total value of pension assets under the CPS stood at N3.73 trillion as at September, 2013, with an average monthly contribution of N20 billion and 30 per cent annual growth rate. This pool of pension funds is a potential platform for attaining the transformation agenda of Government in the provision of infrastructure, energy, employment generation and the development of the real sector.

“The total number of retirees on Programmed Withdrawal (PW), which stood at 5,124 in 2008 increased significantly to 73,695 as at the end of September 2013. The total monthly average PW as at September, 2013 was N2,260.07 billion and the lump sum payment under the same period stood at N189,736.65 billion

The total value of pension assets under the CPS stood at N3.73 trillion as at September 2013 with an average monthly contribution of N20 billion and 30 per cent annual growth rate

Director-General, PenCom, Chinelo AnohuAmazu.

“The total number of retirees on life annuity retirement plan stood at 74 in 2010, but increased to 2,434 in 2012 and 5,717 as at the end of September, 2013. The total monthly average annuity was N277.20 million as at the end of September, 2013, while the total lump sum paid to retirees under this plan was N13.22 billion over the same period.

“It is pertinent to note that the trend in pension fund assets highlights the increasing significance of Pension Funds as major institutional investors in the Nigerian economy.

It further shows the growing availability of long term finances for the development of the real sector and other economic developmental strides.”

44 BUSINESS | GLOBAL NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

StandChart's profit dips first time in 10 years • Cuts bonuses

S

tandard Chartered is shrinking its Korea business because of a $350 million drop in profit from operations there.

Standard Chartered suffered its worst profit performance for a decade during 2013 amid a slowdown in some of its key emerging markets businesses.

The bank’s pre-tax profit dropped to $6.96 billion (£4.17 billion, €5 billion) for the year, down 7 per cent. It is the first time profit has fallen in ten years. Around 90 per cent of Standard Chartered’s profit is made in Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

There was particular weakness in the bank’s South Korean operations, where profit was down $350m to an overall loss of $12 million because of

weak consumer banking revenues. As a result, the bank is shrinking its Korean business.

Following the profit drop, Standard Chartered’s total bonus pool was slashed by 15 per cent. The bonus for Chief Executive, Peter Sands, has reportedly been halved to $1 million.

“In 2013, Standard Chartered faced margin pressures many key businesses and markets. Regulatory requirements and the bank levy put upward pressure on costs. Various factors drove a sharp increase in unsecured loan impairment.

A much more negative sentiment towards emerging markets affected valuations and transaction flows in Wholesale Banking. We also had to take goodwill impairment on our business in Korea, given

the severity of the challenges facing us and the industry as a whole in that market. As a result, we slipped from our trajectory of record income and profits, posting lower income and profits for the first time in over a decade. Our share price fell, reflecting both our own performance and investor sentiment towards our markets,” Sands said.

He added that the bank is being stricter with its spending and headcount in order to manage costs, as well as de-risking its investment portfolios.

“However, the more fundamental changes relate to our strategy and how we are organising ourselves and deploying our resources to deliver the sustainable, profitable growth and returns that drive shareholder value,” he said.

Ads ‘biggest mobile malware risk’ A

dverts on websites are now the biggest source of malware on mobile phones, according to a study.

Research by security company, Blue Coat, suggests web adverts have overtaken pornography as the most common way for users to encounter a malware threat.

On one in five occasions when a mobile user comes into contact with malware, it is via an online advert.

Mobile malware is growing, but accounts for just 1 per cent

of all malware threats, networking company, Cisco, said.

Although web adverts have replaced pornography as the most common way for users to encounter malware, attacks from X-rated sites are still the most effective.

Less than 1 per cent of all requested content on a mobile is for pornography, yet it is responsible for 16 per cent of malware attacks.

“While users don’t access pornography that frequently, when they do, they are very

Mobile phones

US services growth dips in February –Report

G

rowth and the pace of hiring in the U.S. services sector slowed in February, an industry report has shown, though industry executives said unusually bad weather was in part to blame for disruptions in economic activity.

Financial data firm, Markit, said its final service sector purchasing managers’ index dipped to 53.3 in February from 56.7 in January.

A reading above 50 signals economic expansion, and the result was

vulnerable to malware,” said the report.

In comparison, Blue Coat said that adverts make up 12 per cent of requested content but are responsible for nearly 20 per cent of attacks.

The adverts are often displayed through “legitimate advertisement networks” but contain “malicious code” or direct users to “malicious sites.”

The report states that the threat of malware from web advertisements has increased almost three times since it last looked at data relating to the trend in 2012.

Cisco’s 2014 Annual Security Report noted that although mobile malware was “not a significant percentage” of web malware encounters, “it is still worth noting because mobile malware is clearly an emerging area of exploration for malware developers.”

better than Markit’s preliminary “flash” reading of 52.7 released last week.

Employers in the service sector which accounts for about three-quarters of the U.S. labour market, continued to add employees, but at the slowest rate since March 2013. The final employment index came in at 51.9 in February, compared with 54.1 in January.

Li Keqiang

China sets 7.5% 2014 growth target

C

hina has set its economic growth target for the year at 7.5 per cent, as it looks to continue its efforts to stabilise the economy.

The country also set its inflation goal at 3.5 per cent, aimed at keeping prices in check.

After years of blistering growth rates, China has seen its rate of expansion slide after a slowdown domestically and in key markets.

In 2013, the country grew at a pace of 7.7 per cent, about the same as 2012.

Recent manufacturing data has also indicated a slowdown in activity in the world’s second largest economy.

The latest targets were announced by Premier Li Keqiang in his first appearance at China’s annual parliamentary session, the National People’s Congress (NPC).

China describes the NPC as the country’s “supreme organ of state power.”

But in practice, it is generally considered a rubber-

stamping body for the ruling Communist Party.

The growth and inflation targets were widely expected.

Chief economist with the Bank of East Asia in Hong Kong, Paul Tang, said: “Officially, they are conservative and the figures are basically in line with our expectation.

Slower economic growth is already expected for this year.

Tightening of fixed-asset investment and lending are seen to remain as the major focuses.”

Premier Li said that government would work towards increasing personal incomes and also promised to address the property market.

Property purchases have been a popular investment choice in China - a trend that kept prices rising in 2013 and raised fears of a property bubble.

China’s central bank acted late last year by tightening monetary conditions and reining in excessive lending growth.

Global stocks mixed over Ukraine

E

xtreme volatility has rocked global stocks as investors worried about a military standoff between Ukraine and Russia.

Russia’s main stock index traded 1.5 per cent lower, with European markets also in the red in early trading. Stocks in London, Paris and Frankfurt

dropped about 0.2 per cent.

Some Asian markets ended with gains – Japan’s Nikkei rose 1.2 per cent and Australia’s ASX All Ordinaries added 0.8 per cent But China’s benchmark, Shanghai Composite, closed down 0.9 per cent, and Hong Kong’s

Hang Seng fell 0.3 per cent as China launched its annual parliamentary meetings in Beijing.

It’s been a rollercoaster ride this week for world markets with a Monday plunge and a Tuesday surge as investors reacted to unfolding tensions in Ukraine.

METRO 45

Friday, March 7, 2014

d my friend to be gang-raped – Student FRIENDLY ENEMY Like a sheep being led to the slaughter slab, a female student handed her friend to a group of vicious rapists be in the same cult group, allegedly gang-raped the victim.

The commissioner refused to disclose the identity of the victim.

He said: “On the 22nd of February one Awotola Mary (18), a student of the college, lured her friend, a fellow student of the institution, to a house at Rondo area of Offa where five boys of the same school gangraped the victim.

“Two suspects were arrested, they confessed to the crime while efforts are still on to arrest the fleeing suspect.”

Mary, who was paraded along with another of her ally, later said she lured her friend because she was also gangraped by four boys as a condition for being initiated into the cult group.

Although she expressed re-

gret over her action, particularly given that it has brought her no positive gain, Mary said the victim had refused to join them despite pressure mounted on her.

“I did not gain anything from cultism. I regret all my actions,” she said.

Aisabo said the suspects would be charged to court as soon as investigation into the matter was concluded while efforts would be made to arrest other members of the gang now on the run.

A Magistrates’ court sitting in Ilorin, presided over

by Mrs Mercy Abikoye, had remanded 22-year-old student of the school, Olorunshola Temidayo, for his alleged role in the gang-rape of a female colleague of the institution on February 14.

Temidayo was dragged before the court on a two-count charge of criminal conspiracy and rape, contrary to Sections 97 and 283 of Penal Code Law. He was alleged to have committed the offence along with three others, now at large.

According to Police First In-

formation Report (FIR) on the case, the accused, along with his colleagues, had raped their victim after luring her to a birthday party at Lamodi area of Offa where they drugged her with palm wine mixed ‘Ponche’ hot drink.

The prosecutor claimed that Temidayo had used the privilege of being a ‘Man O War’ instructor to lure his victim to the birthday party.

The FIR added that when the accused discovered that the victim had been intoxicated enough, he took her into the room where he, along with his accomplices, took time to have carnal knowledge of her without her consent.

The FIR also stated that the victim managed to shout for help after she had been subjected to several rounds of sexual intercourse.

It added that her shouts attracted the attention of the landlord, who immediately came to her rescue and took her to the General Hospital, Offa, from where she was referred to the General Hospital, Ilorin, for further treatment.

Three inter-state car thieves held in Oyo

Rape scandal: I’m now the complainant – Obesere Taiwo Jimoh

T

he rape scandal involving a 29-yearold businesswoman, Miss Olanike Olaiya, and the Fuji musician, Alhaji Abass Akande, is becoming more intriguing.

The musician, whose stage name is Obesere, has accused Olaiya of trying to blackmail him.

According to him, he was the one who transferred the case, on the advice of his lawyer, to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, for proper handling and investigation.

This was contained in a statement, entitled Obesere’s rape scandal: The true story, issued yesterday by his publicist, Deola Adeoti.

The state described the scandal as a grand conspiracy.

Adeoti said Obesere came in contact with Olaiya on February 5, in Ibadan through his old friend, Bola Okoro, for an ongoing business project tagged: ‘Obesere Rice.’

He said: “She is supposed to be one of beneficiaries of the project as a marketer.

“In order to discuss a business proposal, she came to my Lagos residence in Okota on February 10, 2014.

“Obviously, an intimate relationship between two consenting adults had developed between them. Awed by Obesere’s famous celebrity image, she was all over him, entering (all parts) of

his house like the woman of the house, and even offering to do the cooking, and making several advances for a romantic relationship with the Fuji star.

“One thing led to the other, and she offered to stay the night in the cozy environment.

“After having a swell time, she departed the following day with smiles.”

But to Obesere’s surprise, he got an invitation from the Isolo Police Division that a girl who departed happily from his house has reported him for rape four days after her departure. To him, it was a laughable mater.

“But the silent question is: How can a willing relationship between two consenting adults result to rape? What are the evidences? Why did it take her four days to report the case? It is quite evident that something is amiss.”

Obesere

Robbers beat us mercilessly, say traders Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

S File picture of some suspected car thieves

Sola Adeyemo, Ibadan

P

olice yesterday said they had arrested three suspected inter-state armed robbers, who specialised in stealing Nissan vehicles.

The suspects are identified as Saheed Oloruntoyin (27), Ibrahim Tijani (30) and Lukmon Oladimeji.

Items recovered from them are seven vehicles with registration numbers: CB 769 RBC (Abuja), YF 154 YAB (Abuja), GWA 435 AS (Abuja), BE 218 MNA (Niger), EPE 506 AJ (Lagos), BDJ 319 FQ (Oyo) and YYY 579 AAA (Oyo).

According to the police, they were arrested in Oyo town on February 16 while sharing their loot.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Olabisi Ilobanafor, who disclosed this, said the Officer-In-Charge of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Oyo, Olusola Aremu, said the suspects were sharing the loot at one of their hideouts at Ajagba area, Oyo town when the operatives swooped on them.

They were also said to be planning to carry out their ne-

farious activities in the town when they were nabbed.

On interrogation, the police said the suspects confessed to be members of a three-man gang, which specialised in snatching cars from Oyo State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

According to Ilobanafor, the suspects also confessed that vehicles they snatched from FCT were sold in Oyo State while those stolen from the state were sold in Abuja, adding that the matter was still being investigated.

ome traders have recounted their ordeals in the hands of robbers who attacked them at Gbuugbu area of Kwara State.

They spoke when police paraded one Bala Mohammed of New Garage, Nasarawa State, for allegedly being a member of a notorious four-man robbery gang that had been responsible for some robberies along highways in and around the state.

One of the traders, who spoke journalists, said: “We just heard sporadic gunshots from the hoodlums about 2a.m. at Gbugbu where we usually slept a day before every Wednesday’s Tsaragi market day.

“They succeeded in collecting all our money and even injured some of us while beating us with sticks. We call on police authority and government to help us recover our money.”

Before his arrest, the suspect was said to have been among the hoodlums that robbed 13 female traders, who had come from Ilesha, Osun State to buy food items, at a location where they usually sleep before the Tsaragi Market in Gbuugbu area.

Over N1 million was reportedly taken from the women during the attack.

Speaking during the parade, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Ambrose Aisabo, said the bandits were arrested following intelligence report.

He recalled that men of the Federal Highway Patrol team had intercepted a vehicle, Opel Vetra, with registration number, Plateau BSA 24 XA, along Tsaragi - Lafiagi - Yikpata Road, with four occupants.

The commissioner said three of the occupants escaped into the bush while one of them was arrested while his men were searching the vehicle.

He said: “On investigation, it was discovered that the suspects were part of the daredevil armed gang terrorising highways in and around Kwara State in recent times and were on a mission to rob people going to Wednesday Tsaragi market before they ran into impregnable security cordon of men.”

Aisabo listed items found in the car to include two AK47 rifles, four magazines, 279 AK47 life ammunition, five handsets, five shirts, three pairs of native dress, two jackets, three trousers, three caps, one hand bag, one local charm, one native cap and N233,225.

46 business | FINANCIAL MARKET NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

6-Mar-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.

Bonds

FGN Bonds Issuer

Rating/Agency

NA

FGN

Description

Price

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs)

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

Bid Price

Offer Price

18-Mar-11 31-Mar-07 29-Jun-07 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 28-Nov-08 22-May-09 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10

10.50 10.75 9.20 9.25 4.00 13.05 15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 16.39 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00

320.00 35.00 45.00 100.00 535.00 292.47 452.80 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 600.00 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57

18-Mar-14 31-Mar-14 29-Jun-14 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 28-Nov-28 22-May-29 20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30

0.03 0.07 0.32 0.56 1.13 2.45 3.14 3.39 3.49 4.23 5.32 5.63 7.90 14.73 15.21 15.71 16.38

12.83 12.95 13.66 14.17 14.37 14.01 14.07 13.94 13.94 13.93 13.99 13.91 13.95 13.64 13.62 13.60 13.63

8.50 10.84 13.17 13.88 14.21 13.93 13.95 13.82 13.82 13.83 13.91 13.82 13.89 13.59 13.57 13.54 13.57

99.90 99.81 98.58 97.42 89.50 98.05 102.50 89.20 87.66 89.88 107.30 73.59 111.40 108.50 92.78 67.21 76.40

100.05 99.96 98.73 97.57 89.65 98.20 102.80 89.50 87.96 90.18 107.60 73.89 111.70 108.80 93.08 67.51 76.70

10.50 18-MAR-2014 10.75 31-MAR-2014 9.20 29-JUN-2014 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 15.00 28-NOV-2028 12.49 22-MAY-2029 8.50 20-NOV-2029 10.00 23-JUL-2030

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

4,402.04

Rating/Agency

Issuer

Agency Bonds AMCON FMBN

NA

***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 (%)

Issue 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 6.00 112.22 116.70 66.49

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

0.65 1.22 1.58 2.76 3.12 3.33

1.00 2.63 2.27 2.00 1.49 1.00

15.22 16.97 16.46 15.96 15.43 14.94

90.88 82.00 101.18 89.02 86.12 84.63

05-Aug-14 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 06-Jan-21

0.42 0.61 1.49 0.86 1.39 1.39 3.12 1.95 3.82 2.60 4.58 2.80 2.80 3.38 3.26 5.72 3.32 4.12 6.73 4.13 4.16

4.88 5.99 4.44 3.23 4.46 3.48 5.59 7.60 1.79 1.80 1.00 1.00 1.21 1.00 2.46 1.94 2.74 2.74 1.00 1.44 1.95

18.78 20.19 18.67 17.57 18.73 17.75 19.53 21.64 15.72 15.78 14.92 14.96 15.17 14.94 16.40 15.85 16.68 16.67 14.90 15.37 15.88

98.06 96.55 92.30 96.09 94.69 97.65 78.43 88.32 95.12 96.38 96.98 99.18 104.17 98.91 97.91 94.97 95.32 94.61 94.11 101.68 101.33

1,304.32

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

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

14.00 KWARA 5-AUG-2014 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 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021

05-Aug-09 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 06-Jan-14

14.00 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 14.50 15.00

17.00 6.00 8.50 16.50 13.00 18.50 57.00 50.00 25.00 50.00 9.00 20.00 12.00 27.00 20.00 80.00 30.00 11.40 87.00 5.00 5.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

567.90

Corporate Bonds 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 Bbb+/Agusto A-/Agusto BBB-/GCR A+/Agusto; A-/GCR A-/Agusto

*FLOURMILLS

10.00 UPDC 17-AUG-2015 12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015

*CHELLARAMS NAHCO

13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016

*UPDC

FSDH

A+/GCR

UBA

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

13.50 GUARANTY TRUST 18-DEC-2014

*C & I LEASING # *DANA *TOWER# *TOWER

14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017 MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

#

UBA *LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS#

14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018

NAHCO

MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020

IFC

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

07-Oct-11

11.50

11.80

07-Oct-14

0.59

1.00

15.19

97.97

18-Dec-09

13.50

13.17

18-Dec-14

0.79

5.21

19.51

95.73

01-Apr-10 17-Aug-10

17.00 10.00

2.00 15.00

31-Dec-14 17-Aug-15

0.82 0.97

8.71 4.88

23.03 19.29

95.61 92.27

09-Dec-10

12.00

37.50

09-Dec-15

1.05

1.00

15.40

97.03

06-Jan-11 29-Sep-11

14.00 13.00

1.50 15.00

06-Jan-16 29-Sep-16

1.13 2.57

2.63 1.00

17.00 14.98

97.35 95.88 97.71

25-Oct-13

14.25

5.53

25-Oct-16

2.64

1.34

15.31

30-Sep-10

13.00

20.00

30-Sep-17

3.57

4.52

18.46

86.14

30-Nov-12

18.00

0.94

30-Nov-17

2.19

1.88

15.89

104.87

09-Apr-11 09-Sep-11

16.00 18.00

8.01 3.63

09-Apr-18 09-Sep-18

2.09 2.26

3.48 5.20

17.50 19.20

97.58 97.83

09-Sep-11

16.00

1.00

09-Sep-18

2.26

5.06

19.06

101.77

22-Sep-11

14.00

35.00

22-Sep-18

4.55

3.06

16.98

90.78

18-Oct-13 17-Feb-12

15.75 17.00

3.00 0.54

18-Oct-18 17-Feb-19

2.37 2.70

2.29 6.11

16.29 20.08

99.17 94.21

14-Nov-13

15.25

2.05

14-Nov-20

6.69

2.76

16.66

94.35

11-Feb-18

3.94

1.00

14.93

86.27

Bid Price

Offer Price

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

175.67

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE Rating/Agency

12.00 Issuer

Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Issue Value ($'mm)

Maturity Date

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

6.75 JAN 28, 2021

07-Oct-11

6.75

500.00

28-Jan-21

5.55

5.39

106.76

107.70

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

18-Dec-09

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

4.71

4.52

101.62

102.37

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

01-Apr-10

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

6.00

5.86

102.67

103.67

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

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

FGN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

Corporate Eurobonds Afren PLC I

11.50 FEB 01, 2016

01-Feb-11

11.50

450.00

01-Feb-16

4.00

3.39

113.51

114.71

GTBank PLC I

7.50 MAY 19, 2016

19-May-11

7.50

500.00

19-May-16

5.31

4.60

104.46

105.98

GTBank PLC II

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

6.40

6.15

98.41

99.41

B+/S&P

Access Bank PLC

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

7.26

6.88

99.96

101.08

B/S&P; B/Fitch

Fidelity Bank PLC

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

8.39

8.06

94.75

95.88

B/Fitch

Afren PLC II

10.25 APR 08, 2019

08-Apr-12

10.25

300.00

08-Apr-19

5.36

4.81

114.08

115.27

B/S&P; B-/Fitch

First Bank PLC

8.25 AUG 07, 2020

07-Aug-13

8.25

300.00

07-Aug-20

7.34

6.88

103.36

105.12

B+/S&P; B+/Fitch

Afren PLC III

6.63 DEC 09, 2020

09-Dec-13

6.63

360.00

09-Dec-20

6.64

6.40

99.92

100.89

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

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

2,960.00

**Treasury Bills DTM 7 14 21 28 35 42 49

FIXINGS Maturity 13-Mar-14 20-Mar-14 27-Mar-14 3-Apr-14 10-Apr-14 17-Apr-14 24-Apr-14

Bid Discount (%) 11.10 12.80 12.80 12.50 12.90 12.50 12.90

Offer Discount (%) 10.85 12.55 12.55 12.25 12.65 12.25 12.65

Bid Yield (%) 11.12 12.86 12.89 12.62 13.06 12.68 13.13

Tenor CALL 7 DAYS 30 DAYS 60 DAYS 90 DAYS 180 DAYS

NIBOR

Money Market Rate (%) 12.1667 12.5417 12.7917 13.0417 13.3333 13.7083

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards)

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

11.46

Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

O/N

11.79

Spot 7D 14D 1M 2M

164.46 164.63 164.89 165.51 166.69

164.56 164.91 165.27 166.26 168.01

Tenor Call

REPO

Rate (%) 11.33

NA

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 15.00 28-NOV-2028 12.49 22-MAY-2029 8.50 20-NOV-2029 10.00 23-JUL-2030

FGN

27-Jul-07 31-Aug-07 30-May-08 29-Jun-12 23-Oct-09 27-Jan-12 28-Nov-08 22-May-09 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10

9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 16.39 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00

20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 600.00 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE Description

Issuer

AMCON FMBN

NA

***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

Coupon (%)

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

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE Sub-National Bonds

Bbb-/Agusto A-/GCR A+/Agusto A/Agusto Nil A+/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto A/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR Bb+/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 A-/GCR

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

To remain competitive, brokers are to continuously hone their skills Chris Ugwu

T

13.94 13.94 13.93 13.99 13.91 13.95 13.64 13.62 13.60 13.63

13.82 13.82 13.83 13.91 13.82 13.89 13.59 13.57 13.54 13.57

89.20 87.66 89.88 107.30 73.59 111.40 108.50 92.78 67.21 76.40

89.50 87.96 90.18 107.60 73.89 111.70 108.80 93.08 67.51 76.70

business | FINANCIAL MARKET NEWS

Issue Date

Issue Value (N'bn)

Brokers to start professional development training Agency Bonds

TRAINING

3.39 3.49 4.23 5.32 5.63 7.90 14.73 15.21 15.71 16.38

4,402.04

Sanctity of Truth

Friday,Rating/Agency March 7, 2014

27-Jul-17 31-Aug-17 30-May-18 29-Jun-19 23-Oct-19 27-Jan-22 28-Nov-28 22-May-29 20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30

he Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has concluded plans to carry out its Continuous ProTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE fessional Development (CPD) Corporate Bonds training for dealing clerks in A+/Agusto; AA/GCR LAFARGE WAPCO the Nigerian Capital Aa/Agusto GTBMarket.

Nil The programmeNGC is schedBbb+/Agusto *UPDC A-/Agusto uled to take place at*FLOURMILLS The Stock BBB-/GCR Exchange Building*CHELLARAMS in Marina A+/Agusto; A-/GCR NAHCO A-/Agusto Lagos on March 15,FSDH 2014.

A+/GCR UBA Speaking on the developBBB-/GCR *C & I LEASING BBB+/DataPro; *DANAActing ment, The BB+/GCR Exchange’s A-/DataPro; A-/GCR *TOWER Head of Market Operations, AAA/DataPro; A-/GCR *TOWER A/Agusto; UBA that the Mr. Ade A/GCR Ewuosho, said Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR *LA CASERA objective of the workshop was BBB-/DataPro; BBB-/GCR *CHELLARAMS A-/GCR NAHCO toA+/Agusto; provide practising stockbroTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE kers with a strong grounding Bondfunctionalities inSupranational the advanced AAA/S&P IFC of the New Trading System (XTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE GEN), and a detailed underRating/Agency Issuer standing of the New Market structure recently introduced FGN Eurobonds inBB-/Fitch; late 2013.

The sessions will B+/S&P also offer brokers an insight BB-/Fitch; FGN BB-/S&P into how to reach the retail BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P using new technology market TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE implemented with XGEN. Corporate Eurobonds According to Ewuosho, B-/S&P; B/Fitch Afren PLC I “The broad-based programme GTBank PLC I B+/S&P; B+/Fitch will also provide the particiGTBank PLC II pants with an opportunity to B+/S&P Access Bank PLC B/S&P; B/Fitch Fidelity Bank PLC hone in their existing skills µ

#

# #

#

14.00 KWARA 5-AUG-2014 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 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021

Oteh 11.50 LAFARGE WAPCO 7-OCT 2014

GUARANTY TRUST 18-DEC-2014 as13.50 well as interact with oth17.00 NGC 31-DEC-2014 er10.00 stockbrokers to deepen UPDC 17-AUG-2015 12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015 their knowledge of the new 14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016 system.

This will be the first 13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 CPD programme since the 13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 Exchange went live 18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017on their MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 new platform in September MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 2013.

Emphasis will focus on MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018 the Market participants, mini15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 mum operating requirements MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 amongst other new developments in the capital Market”.

He listed benefits of the 10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018 programme to include keeping participants current with up Description to date information and trends relevant to their field, building their confidence enhanc6.75 JANand 28, 2021 ing the professionalism of 5.13 JUL 12, 2018 working in the Nigerian Capi6.38 JUL 12, 2023 tal Market.

He said: “Continuing education programmes benefit both 11.50 FEB 01, 2016 businesses and workers; busi7.50 MAY 19, 2016 nesses encourage continuing 6.00 NOV 08, 2018 JUL 25, to 2017sustain education in7.25 order 6.88 MAY 09, 2018 a highly skilled and special10.25 APR 08, 2019

978.35 24.56 6.00 112.22 116.70 66.49

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

INCENTIVE

17.00 6.00 8.50 16.50 13.00 18.50 57.00 50.00 25.00 50.00 9.00 20.00 12.00 27.00 20.00 80.00 30.00 11.40 87.00 5.00 5.00

05-Aug-14

0.42

F

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 06-Jan-21

3.12 1.95 3.82 2.60 4.58 2.80 2.80 3.38 3.26 5.72 3.32 4.12 6.73 4.13 4.16

35.00 3.00

22-Sep-18 18-Oct-18

4.55 2.37

15-Oct-14 Nigeria should put in 0.61 31-Aug-15 1.49 30-Sep-15 0.86 place a reward system for 30-Jun-16 1.39 indigenous30-Jun-16 investors. 1.39

Chris Ugwu

or Nigeria to join the league of developed economies, the nation must adopt a system to encourage the citizen to invest in the country, Former Foreign Affairs Minister, Gen. Ike Nwachukwu, has said.

567.90 Nwachukwu made this call 11.80 07-Oct-14 0.59 yesterday at the launch of ‘Plati13.17 18-Dec-14 0.79 num Essays in the Philosophy 2.00 31-Dec-14 0.82of 15.00 17-Aug-15 of Develop0.97 Applied Economics 37.50 09-Dec-15 1.05 ment’ written06-Jan-16 by the Chairman 1.50 1.13 15.00 2.57 of the Audit 29-Sep-16 and Risk Manage5.53 25-Oct-16 2.64 ment Committee of the Board 20.00 30-Sep-17 3.57 0.94 30-Nov-17 2.19 of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, 8.01 09-Apr-18 2.09 Professor Herbert Onye Orji.

3.63 09-Sep-18 2.26 1.00 09-Sep-18 2.26 “Nigeria has a high economic

Trading closes on bearish note A 17-Feb-12 14-Nov-13

17.00 15.25

#

Risk Premium (%)

0.65 1.22 1.58 2.76 3.12 3.33

1,304.32

14.00 ised 05-Aug-09 workforce –one with the 15-Oct-09 14.00 skills31-Aug-10 to perform a 12.50 variety of 13.00 "crosstasks30-Sep-10 or workers with 30-Jun-11 14.00 functional" skills.

30-Jun-09 15.50 19-Apr-10 10.00 “Dealing Clerks, on the oth30-Jun-10 13.75 er hand, may receive 30-Dec-10 14.00promo14.00 tions,30-Sep-11 gain more power in the 04-Oct-11 14.00 09-Dec-11 14.50 job market, or become more 12-Dec-13 14.00 valuable employees by enroll14-Feb-12 15.50 02-Oct-12 15.50 ing for continuing-education 22-Nov-12 14.50 programmes.”

12-Dec-12 14.75 14.75 He30-Sep-13 said Dealing Clerks, who 27-Nov-13 13.50 upgrade their work skills and 31-Dec-13 14.50 06-Jan-14 knowledge not only15.00 can keep up with the latest technologies and business techniques, 07-Oct-11 11.50 18-Dec-09 13.50 but they also can receive other 01-Apr-10 17.00 benefits, such as the training 17-Aug-10 10.00 09-Dec-10 needed to climb the12.00 corporate 06-Jan-11 14.00 ladder and to realise addition29-Sep-11 13.00 25-Oct-13goals. According 14.25 al career to 30-Sep-10 13.00 him,30-Nov-12 one of the greatest ben18.00 09-Apr-11 16.00 efits workers may derive from 09-Sep-11 18.00 continuing education is sim09-Sep-11 16.00 22-Sep-11 their jobs.

14.00 ply keeping 15.75

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

47 Indicative

Valuation Yield (%)

Price

Nwachukwu seeks support for local investors

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

18-Oct-13

Maturity Date

0.54 2.05

17-Feb-19 14-Nov-20

1.00 2.63 2.27 2.00 1.49 1.00

15.22 16.97 16.46 15.96 15.43 14.94

90.88 82.00 101.18 89.02 86.12 84.63

growth rate. It is the largest market4.88 in Africa. 18.78 Currently, Nigeria 98.06 5.99 20.19 96.55 is carrying out major economic 4.44 18.67 92.30 reforms.

So, the country is taking 3.23 17.57 96.09 4.46 a leading role,18.73 not only in94.69 Africa, 3.48 17.75 97.65 but5.59 also among emerging78.43 econo19.53 7.60 globally,” 21.64 mies he said. 88.32 1.79 15.72 95.12 Nwachukwu that to 1.80 15.78 noted 96.38 1.00 14.92 sustain this, Nigerians 96.98 should 1.00 14.96 99.18 be 1.21 encouraged 15.17 and made 104.17 to 1.00 14.94 98.91 understand that developing the 2.46 16.40 97.91 1.94 15.85to them,94.97 economy belong not the 2.74 16.68 95.32 western world16.67 that would94.61 rather 2.74 1.00the country 14.90 as a foot 94.11 have tool.

1.44 15.37 101.68 He noted that modern invest1.95 15.88 101.33 ment strategy involves highly developed school system, available 1.00 15.19 and experienced skilled97.97 labour 5.21 19.51 95.73 in modern technology . Also 8.71 23.03 95.61very 4.88 19.29 92.27 important, are a credible and 1.00 15.40 97.03 available banking 2.63 17.00 and financial 97.35 1.00 14.98 95.88 strategy , a developed road net1.34 15.31 97.71 work 4.52 and other 18.46infrastructures 86.14 1.88 15.89 104.87 like steady running water, good 3.48 17.50 97.58 5.20 19.20 planning 97.83 and environmental 5.06 101.77 electricity . 19.06 3.06 16.98 90.78

2.70 6.69

2.29

16.29

99.17

6.11 2.76

20.08 16.66

94.21 94.35

175.67

ctivities on the Nigerian million shares worth N4.48 bil11-Feb-13 10.20 12.00 11-Feb-18 3.94 Stock Exchange (NSE) lion traded in 4,956 deals on 12.00 closed lower yesterday as Wednesday.

Issue Date Coupon (%) Issue ValueThe ($'mm) market Maturity Dateindicators Bid Yield (%) transactions dropped both in value and volume terms. dropped by 0.47 per cent as a The value of shares result of profit taking. 5.55 07-Oct-11 6.75 traded 500.00 28-Jan-21 dropped by 21.64 per cent, The market capitalisation de18-Dec-09 5.13 500.00 12-Jul-18 4.71 while the volume of shares clined by N59 billion to close at 01-Apr-10 6.38 500.00 12-Jul-23 6.00 declined by 61.84 per cent.

N12.509 trillion against N12.568 A total of 337.464 million 1,500.00 trillion posted on Wednesday shares valued at N3.51 billion following price losses.

4.00 were01-Feb-11 traded in 4,25811.50 deals, ac- 450.00Similarly,01-Feb-16 the All-Share In19-May-11 7.50 500.00 19-May-16 5.31 cording to the News Agency of dex, which opened at 39,127.41, 08-Nov-13 6.00 400.00 08-Nov-18 6.40 25-Jul-12 7.25 350.00 25-Jul-17 or 0.477.26 Nigeria (NAN). lost 182.79 points per 09-May-13 6.88 300.00 02-May-18 8.39 This was against the 884.273 cent to close at 38,944.62.

08-Apr-12 10.25 300.00 08-Apr-19

B/Fitch

Afren PLC II

4.81

114.08

115.27

B/S&P; B-/Fitch

First Bank PLC

8.25 AUG 07, 2020

07-Aug-13

8.25

300.00

07-Aug-20

7.34

6.88

103.36

105.12

B+/S&P; B+/Fitch

Afren PLC III

6.63 DEC 09, 2020

09-Dec-13

6.63

360.00

09-Dec-20

6.64

6.40

99.92

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

5.36

Flour Mill recorded the 1.00 14.93 86.27 highest price loss, shedding N5.30 to close at N76 per share.

Offer Nigerian Yield (%) Bid Price Offer Price Breweries trailed with a loss of N2.47 to close at Prices & Yields N146.42, while Presco dipped 5.39 106.76 107.70

by N2 to close at N44 per share.

4.52 101.62 102.37 Dangote Cement dropped 102.67 5.86 103.67 N1 to close at N237, while UACProperty dropped 89k to close at N21.06 per share.

3.39 113.51 Conversely, Forte 114.71 Oil led 4.60 104.46 105.98 the6.15gainers' 98.41 chart, advancing 99.41 by6.88 N5.99 to close 99.96 at N94.39 101.08 per 8.06 94.75 95.88 share.

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

2,960.00

6-Mar-14100.89

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 **Treasury Bills FIXINGS Money Market Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) Statement. the FMDQDTM OTC PLC Terms of Maturity Use and Disclaimer NIBOR Bid Discount (%) Offer Discount (%) Bid Yield (%) Tenor Rate (%)

7 14 FGN Bonds21 28 35 42 Rating/Agency 49 63 70 77 84 91 105 112 119 126 133 154 NA 182 273 308 322 336 350

13-Mar-14 20-Mar-14 27-Mar-14 3-Apr-14 10-Apr-14 17-Apr-14 Issuer 24-Apr-14 8-May-14 15-May-14 22-May-14 29-May-14 5-Jun-14 19-Jun-14 26-Jun-14 3-Jul-14 10-Jul-14 17-Jul-14 7-Aug-14 FGN 4-Sep-14 4-Dec-14 8-Jan-15 22-Jan-15 5-Feb-15 19-Feb-15

11.10 12.80 12.80 12.50 12.90 12.50 Description 12.90 12.90 10.50 18-MAR-2014 12.85 10.75 31-MAR-2014 12.85 9.20 29-JUN-2014 12.90 12.85 9.25 28-SEP-2014 12.85 4.00 23-APR-2015 12.90 13.05 16-AUG-2016 13.25 15.10 27-APR-2017 13.30 9.85 27-JUL-2017 13.25 13.20 9.35 31-AUG-2017 13.20 10.70 30-MAY-2018 12.45 16.00 29-JUN-2019 13.10 7.00 23-OCT-2019 13.10 16.39 27-JAN-2022 13.10 13.10 15.00 28-NOV-2028

10.85 12.55 12.55 12.25 12.65 12.25 Issue Date 12.65 12.65 18-Mar-11 12.60 31-Mar-07 12.60 29-Jun-07 12.65 12.60 28-Sep-07 12.60 23-Apr-10 12.65 16-Aug-13 13.00 27-Apr-12 13.05 27-Jul-07 13.00 12.95 31-Aug-07 12.95 30-May-08 12.20 29-Jun-12 12.85 23-Oct-09 12.85 27-Jan-12 12.85 12.85 28-Nov-08

12.49 22-MAY-2029 8.50 20-NOV-2029

*from the Amortising bonds, the average life is calculated and 23-JUL-2030 not the duration 10.00 #

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

Rating/Agency

Description

AMCON

0.00 AMCON 31-OCT-2014 (SR.5 TR.1) Porfolio Market Total Outstanding 0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 Value(Bn) Volume(Bn) 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 0.00/16.00 LCRM 09-DEC-2016 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 20-APR-2017 1,229.71 1,280.27 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017 1,045.34 951.30 451.96 591.57

Modified Duration FMBN Buckets

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE Sub-National Bonds Bbb-/Agusto A-/GCR A+/Agusto A/Agusto Nil A+/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto A/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

***LCRM <3 3<5 >5

Market

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

Tenor CALL 7 DAYS 30 DAYS 60 DAYS Outstanding 90 DAYSValue (N'bn) 180 DAYS 365 DAYS

Bonds

Rate (%) 12.1667 12.5417 12.7917 13.0417 13.3333 Maturity Date 13.7083 14.0000

320.00 18-Mar-14 35.00 31-Mar-14 NITTY 45.00 29-Jun-14 Tenor Rate (%) 100.00 28-Sep-14 1M 12.5381 535.00 23-Apr-15 2M 13.2019 292.47 16-Aug-16 3M 13.2996 452.80 27-Apr-17 6M 14.0259 20.00 27-Jul-17 9M 14.4969 12M 15.1333 100.00 31-Aug-17 300.00 30-May-18 351.30 29-Jun-19 NIFEX 233.90 23-Oct-19 Current Price ($/N) 600.00 27-Jan-22 BID($/N) 75.00 164.4125 28-Nov-28 OFFER ($/N) 164.5125 150.00 22-May-29 200.00 20-Nov-29 591.57 23-Jul-30

12.49 8.50 10.00

OBB

11.46

Tenor

O/N

11.79

Spot 7D 14D Offer1MYield (%) 2M 3M 8.50 6M 10.84 1Y

REPO Tenor (%)(%) TTM (Yrs) BidRate Yield Call 1M

11.33 12.33

0.03 12.83 3M 12.83 0.07 12.95 6M 13.25 0.32 13.66 13.17 0.56 14.17 13.88 NOTE: 1.13 14.37 14.21 :Benchmarks 2.45 14.01 13.93 * :Amortising Bond 3.14 Bond 14.07 13.95 µ :Convertible 13.82 AMCON: 3.39 Asset Management13.94 Corporation of Nigeria FGN: Federal Nigeria 3.49 Government of13.94 13.82 FMBN: Federal of Nigeria 4.23 Mortgage Bank 13.93 13.83 IFC: International Finance Corporation 5.32 13.99 13.91 LCRM: Local Contractors Receivables Management 5.63 13.91 Company13.82 NAHCO: Nigerian Aviation Handling 7.90 13.95 13.89 NGC: Nigeria-German Company UBA: United 14.73Bank for Africa 13.64 13.59 UPDC: UAC Property Development Company 15.21 13.62 13.57 WAPCO:West Africa Portland Cement Company 15.71 13.60 13.54 16.38 13.63 13.57

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

164.46 Price 164.56 164.63 164.91 164.89 165.27 165.51 166.26 Offer Price Bid Price 166.69 168.01 168.03 170.72 99.90 100.05 171.79 176.01 99.81 99.96 178.74 187.95

98.58 98.73 97.42 97.57 89.50 89.65 NA :Not Applicable 98.05 98.20 # :Floating Rate Bond 102.50 coupon bonds 102.80 ***: Deferred 89.20 89.50 87.66 87.96 89.88 90.18 107.30 107.60 73.59 73.89 111.40 111.70 108.50 108.80 92.78 93.08 67.21 67.51 76.40 76.70

4,402.04

Issuer

Agency Bonds

NA

22-May-09 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10

11.12 12.86 12.89 12.62 13.06 12.68(%) Coupon 13.13 13.19 10.50 13.17 10.75 13.21 9.20 13.29 13.28 9.25 13.34 4.00 13.43 13.05 13.85 15.10 13.94 9.85 13.92 13.98 9.35 14.13 10.70 13.73 16.00 14.73 7.00 14.81 16.39 14.90 14.98 15.00

2,727.02 14.00 KWARA 5-AUG-2014 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

Issue Date

2,823.14

Issue Value (N'bn)

FMDQ FGN BOND INDEX

28-Dec-11

Weighting by 24-May-10 Outstanding Vol

03-Apr-12 09-Dec-11 45.35 20-Apr-12 06-Jul-1233.70 20.95

100.00 05-Aug-09 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

Coupon (%)

0.00

Weighting 0.00by Mkt Value

17.25 0.00/16.00 45.09 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50 38.33 16.57

100.00 14.00 14.00 12.50 13.00 14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00

978.35

Bucket24.56 Weighting

6.00 112.22 116.70 0.45 66.49 0.34 1,304.320.21

1.00

17.00 6.00 8.50 16.50 13.00 18.50 57.00 50.00 25.00 50.00

Maturity Date

31-Oct-14

%24-May-15 Exposure_ Mod_Duration

03-Apr-17 09-Dec-16 22.06 20-Apr-17 06-Jul-1738.64 39.30

100.00 05-Aug-14 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

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

0.65

1.22Yield Implied

1.58 2.76 14.12 3.12 3.33 13.96 13.63

13.87 0.42 0.61 1.49 0.86 1.39 1.39 3.12 1.95 3.82 2.60

#

Risk Premium (%) 1.00

Implied 2.63 Portfolio Price

2.27 2.00 100.2193 1.49 1.00 117.2747 82.6089 102.2762 4.88 5.99 4.44 3.23 4.46 3.48 5.59 7.60 1.79 1.80

Valuation Yield (%)

Indicative Price

15.22

90.88

YTD82.00 Return (%)

16.97 INDEX

16.46 15.96 1,013.77 15.43 14.94 993.04 1,000.05

995.29 18.78 20.19 18.67 17.57 18.73 17.75 19.53 21.64 15.72 15.78

-

101.18 89.02 1.3766 86.12 84.63 0.6963 0.0047

0.4711 98.06 96.55 92.30 96.09 94.69 97.65 78.43 88.32 95.12 96.38

48 BUSINESS | MONEY LINE

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

S’Africa’s FirstRand renews interest in Mainstreet, Keystone banks

ACQUISITION FirstRand seeks to exploit the abounding opportunities in Africa’s second largest economy

of the bank into offshore expansion particularly the interest in the Nigerian banking sector, according to sources close to the transaction, are problems currently confronting South Africa’s economy. These include widening gap between rich and poor, high unemployment rate, corruption, deteriorating infrastructure, which was said to have surged in the country over the years.

Segun Edwards

S

outh African financial institution, FirstRand is considering buying either of two Nigerian nationalised banks - Mainstreet Bank Limited or Keystone Bank Limited, as growth slows in its local market.

Part of reasons for the foray

FirstRand started operations in Nigeria last year, with its investment banking unit, Rand Merchant Bank, which had since worked with the commercial division of FirstRand’s retail business to find corporate clients in the most populous black nation.

Speaking on the development Mr. Sizwe Nxasana, CEO of FirstRand said the bank will start commercial banking in Nigeria with its merchant banking

NSIA eyes part-financing Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

INFRASTRUTURE NSIA is set to address the qualms experienced by motorists on the LagosIbadan Expressway.

very significant considering the amount of traffic that flows through that corridor.

Discussions, he said, are ongoing with the various parties involved in the project.

The NSIA boss said the Second Niger Bridge deal was the outcome of 11 months of negotiating the cost of the job, bringing it to a level that is line with international best practice.

“We are contributing equity, and some others (investors) have expressed strong interest,” Orji said, adding that some

T

he Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) is interested in part-financing the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The funding will be done through NSIA Motorways Limited, the authority’s Managing Director, Uche Orji, told newsmen in Lagos.

He said NSIA also plans to invest a portion of its infrastructure fund on the LagosIbadan road project, which is

financial institutions are ready to come on stream.

He said the government’s contribution would be limited to N30 billion.

“There are talks of starting work (on the second Niger Bridge) early March. We are very confident that the way we have structured the second Niger Bridge project, will protect our assets. It is in a way that there will be a three to four-year period of no returns on investment. The benchmark internal rate of return is 15 per cent,” he added.

Economic Indicators 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

As at

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

FX

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

license in the not too distant future.

“We are growing into commercial banking in Nigeria. “We will scale it up,” Nxasana said.

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) had in January raised interest rate to 5.5 per cent, in an effort to curb inflation, which is expected to hit 6.3 per cent in 2014, and also shore up the rand, which lost nearly 25 per cent of its value last year. This has

discouraged potential borrowers and reduced spending.

FirstRand seeks to grow its investment in Nigeria and exploit the abounding opportunities in Africa’s second largest economy, prompting it to signify interest in acquiring one of Nigeria’s nationalised banks taken over and recapitalised by the Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) in 2011 following mismanagement of bad loans.

Why we’re supporting WATFON, by Sterling Bank

S

terling Bank’s believe in the need to invest in the children’s future necessitated the institution’s continued support for “We are the Future of Our Nation” (WATFON) project.

The initiative is an avenue for young Nigerians to meet and interact with accomplished professionals and national leaders.

Speaking at the eight edition of the programme in Lagos, Sterling Bank’s Group Head, Strategy and Communications, Sina Atilola, said the lender supported the project because it is also in accordance with the bank’s corporate social responsibility objectives.

He said the provision of a platform for children to meet with accomplished Nigerians will further inspire the children to greatness. “We are also

motivated by the need to promote financial literacy among students to prepare them into becoming good managers of finances, which also determines the child’s long-term financial security,” he said.

Atilola said bank had demonstrated its commitment to the younger generation through initiatives such as the”Raise A Child”, a fundraising initiatives for childrelated causes. The lender also partnered with Audax on Computer Science Education Week’s (CSEWeek) Hour Code, a free Boot Camp for kids and adults to spread awareness of the need for computer science education among the youth.

Also, last year, the bank partnered with the Lagos State Government by donating 10,000 branded exercise books for distribution to students of public schools in Lagos.

IFC, Goldman Sachs launch $600m facility for females

T

he International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, and Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women programme have launched a $600 million global facility that will increase access to finance to as many as 100,000 women entrepreneurs in emerging markets.

A statement from the corporation, said the Women Entrepreneurs Opportunity Facility is the first of its kind to be dedicated exclusively to financing women-owned small and medium businesses in developing countries. IFC said it will invest an initial $100 million and the Goldman Sachs Foundation will provide $32 million. IFC will manage the facility, which is expected to

mobilise up to an additional $468 million from public and private investors.

The facility, according to IFC, is part of the World Bank’s overall strategy to promote gender equality and ensure the social and economic welfare of one-half of the world’s population.

IFC, through its Banking on Women Programme, is playing a catalysing role to help womenowned businesses. Since its inception in 2010, the programme has made 17 investments totaling more than $800 million in 17 countries. “This new initiative will create opportunities for tens of thousands of female entrepreneurs to thrive and prosper,” World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim said.

Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014

Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034

business | CAPITAL MARKET 49

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Daily Summary (Bonds)

The Nigerian Stock Market Exchange as at March 6, 2014 Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034

No Debt Trading Activity

Daily Summary (Equities)

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

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol FTNCOCOA OKOMUOIL PRESCO

No. of Deals 52 28 43 123

Current Price 0.50 41.05 44.00

Quantity Traded 12,315,139 110,007 1,404,575 13,829,721

Value Traded 6,157,809.50 4,558,170.15 62,960,071.01 73,676,050.66

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 17 17

Current Price 3.78

Quantity Traded 198,370 198,370

Value Traded 748,880.30 748,880.30

14,028,091

74,424,930.96

Quantity Traded 2,368 35 25,000 28,503,707 331,172 28,862,282

Value Traded 3,589.16 131.60 28,750.00 112,622,338.59 21,469,726.69 134,124,536.04

AGRICULTURE Totals Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 CONGLOMERATES Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034 Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. CHELLARAMS PLC. JOHN HOLT PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC.

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Diversified Industries Totals

OIL AND GAS Integrated Oil and Gas Services Published by TheOANDO NigerianPLC Stock Exchange ©

Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals

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

140 Symbol No. of Deals AGLEVENT 3 CHELLARAM 1 JOHNHOLT 1 Daily Summary (Equities) TRANSCORP 239 UACN 54 298 Symbol OANDO

No. of Deals 160 160

Current Price 18.45

Quantity Traded Page 3,432,013

Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS TOTAL

No. of Deals 20 10 74 18 2 14 138

Current Price 49.12 4.10 94.39 125.98 54.44 166.00

Quantity Traded 47,326 202,000 322,670 8,222 1,904 6,896 589,018

Value Traded 2,150,937.34 812,130.00 29,140,473.91 1,013,685.47 98,474.88 1,151,917.00 34,367,618.60

5,873,684

98,777,061.07

Current Price 1.35

Quantity Traded 145,533 145,533

Value Traded 192,060.92 192,060.92

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

Quantity Traded 311,000 54,000 365,000

Value Traded 1,387,787.50 148,740.00 1,536,527.50

OIL AND GAS Totals SERVICES Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 Automobile/Auto Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034 Part Retailers R T BRISCOE PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals SERVICES Employment Solutions C & I LEASING PLC. Published

by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Employment Solutions Totals

Current Price 1.50 3.95 1.21 3.95 65.07

323 Symbol RTBRISCOE

No. of Deals 12 12

REDSTAREX TRANSEXPR

Symbol CILEASING

7 4 11

4.48 2.81

No. of Deals 16 16

Current Price 0.51

3,432,013

Quantity Traded 2,735,000 2,735,000 Page

Value Traded 1,417,850.00 10 of 1,417,850.00

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.66

Quantity Traded 12,480 12,480

Value Traded 7,862.40 7,862.40

Media/Entertainment DAAR COMMUNICATIONS PLC Media/Entertainment Totals

Symbol DAARCOMM

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 2,280 2,280

Value Traded 1,140.00 1,140.00

Symbol ACADEMY LEARNAFRCA STUDPRESS UPL

No. of Deals 3 5 1 5 14

Current Price 1.72 1.90 2.40 4.08

Quantity Traded 10,365 22,780 100 139,300 172,545

Value Traded 17,427.80 42,612.20 228.00 569,694.00 629,962.00

No. of Deals 8 8

Current Price 0.97

Quantity Traded 146,816 146,816

Value Traded 141,858.88 141,858.88

No. of Deals No. of Deals 18 4 18 23 27

Current Price Current Price 0.50 3.01 5.50

Road Transportation ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC Activity on Board RoadSummary Transportation TotalsEQTY SERVICES Specialty Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 Transport-Related Services SECURE ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY PLC Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034 AIRLINETotals SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC Specialty NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © SERVICES Totals

Activity Summary EQTY Board Totalson Board ASeM CONSUMER GOODS Food Products MCNICHOLS Activity Summary PLC on Board ASeM Food Products Totals CONSUMER GOODS CONSUMER GOODS Totals Food Products

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol ABCTRANS

Symbol Symbol NSLTECH AIRSERVICE NAHCO

Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (Equities)

109

Quantity Traded Quantity307,490 Traded 17,065 307,490 373,515 390,580 Page 4,277,724

4,257

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

FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034 FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC UNION BANK NIG.PLC.

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

13

3,508,233,068.57

Symbol MCNICHOLS

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.37

Quantity Traded 700 700

Value Traded 1,001.00 1,001.00

Symbol

1 No. of Deals

Current Price

700 Quantity Traded

Value1,001.00 Traded

ASeM Board Totals

1

700

1,001.00

Equity Activity Totals

4,258

337,464,409

3,508,234,069.57

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

No. of Deals 39 50 89 607

Symbol No. of Deals ACCESS 254 DIAMONDBNK 168 ETI 51 FIDELITYBK 61 GUARANTY 343 SKYEBANK 74 STERLNBANK 51 Daily Summary (Equities) UBA 154 UBN 52

Symbol UNITYBNK WEMABANK ZENITHBANK

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

ETF Board Totals

Symbol NEWGOLD

No. of Deals 1 1

Daily Summary (Equities)

1

Activity Summary ETP Activity Totals on Board EQTY

1

CONGLOMERATES CONGLOMERATES Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Building Structure/Completion/Other COSTAIN (WStock A) PLC. Published by The Nigerian Exchange © Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals

Current Price 2,129.00

298 Symbol COSTAIN

Quantity Traded 151 151 Page

151

151 28,862,282

No. of Deals 14 14

Current Price 1.61

Quantity Traded 463,050 Page 463,050

of

321,479.00

Current Price 75.00

Quantity Traded 18,513 18,513

Value Traded 1,346,995.38 1,346,995.38

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

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 20 20

Current Price 21.06

Quantity Traded 199,794 199,794

Value Traded 4,219,573.95 4,219,573.95

681,357

6,317,691.33

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals CONSUMER GOODS Automobiles/Auto Parts Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 DN TYRE & RUBBER PLC Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034 Automobiles/Auto Parts Totals

41 Symbol DUNLOP

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 8,000 8,000

Value Traded 4,000.00 4,000.00

Symbol

No. of Deals 43 13 12 87

Current Price 180.00 27.30 3.77 146.42

Quantity Traded 64,376 65,052 108,800 619,344

Value Traded 11,631,750.19 1,772,396.96 408,376.00 90,781,972.52

Symbol

No. of Deals 155

Current Price

Page Quantity Traded 857,572

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

Symbol 7UP

No. of Deals 11 11

Current Price 82.64

Quantity Traded 27,058 27,058

Value Traded 2,347,822.66 2,347,822.66

Food Products DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC MULTI-TREX INTEGRATED FOODS PLC NATIONAL SALT CO. NIG. PLC N NIG. FLOUR MILLS PLC. U T C NIG. PLC. Food Products Totals

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR MULTITREX NASCON NNFM UTC

No. of Deals 39 72 65 40 2 36 1 6 261

Current Price 9.50 10.91 76.00 4.01 0.50 13.20 22.01 0.57

Quantity Traded 343,508 2,876,107 562,507 2,887,661 10,475 404,926 4,560 192,962 7,282,706

Value Traded 3,258,161.60 31,460,502.47 43,181,628.53 11,760,510.21 5,237.50 5,359,820.33 95,349.60 109,647.27 95,230,857.51

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

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 35 49 84

Current Price 85.00 1,060.00

Quantity Traded 60,073 49,202 109,275

Value Traded 4,861,224.24 51,259,139.94 56,120,364.18

Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. Household Durables Totals

Symbol VITAFOAM

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 4.38

Quantity Traded 11,760 11,760

Value Traded 50,711.00 50,711.00

Beverages--Brewers/Distillers GUINNESS NIG PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. JOS INT. BREWERIES PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. CONSUMER GOODS Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

GUINNESS Daily Summary (Equities) INTBREW JOSBREW NB

Page

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

HEALTHCARE Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 Healthcare Providers EKOCORP PLC. Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034 Healthcare Providers Totals Medical Supplies MORISON INDUSTRIES PLC. Medical Supplies Totals

ICT Computer Based Systems Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 COURTEVILLE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS PLC Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034 Computer Based Systems Totals 13

Page

of

Value Traded 217,150.00 2,397,730.57 1,007,027,552.51 1,978,198,497.37

4

Value Traded of 13 600.00 1,000,681.00 431,584.50 223,164.24 251.00 7,202.50 5.00 402,000.00 33,250.50 500.00 208,260.00 500.00 1,190,544.78 8,690.50 698,817.50 1,258,171.68 617.50 4,257.00

5

of

Symbol UNIVINSURE WAPIC

No. of Deals 2 74 187

Current Price 0.50 0.85

Quantity Traded 210 5,826,049 13,727,782

Value Traded 105.00 5,016,653.12 10,485,855.82

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FBNH FCMB ROYALEX STANBIC UBCAP

No. of Deals 92 20 444 64 10 26 101 757

Current Price 4.09 2.28 12.76 3.41 0.60 20.49 2.90

Quantity Traded 7,463,355 840,294 20,509,218 38,051,013 666,986 179,833 21,210,575 88,921,274

Value Traded 30,617,398.58 1,861,190.92 262,154,298.36 131,265,821.64 401,357.84 3,677,059.67 62,117,231.34 492,094,358.35

260,901,109

2,480,778,711.54

2,410 Symbol EKOCORP

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 3.72

Quantity Traded 170 170

Value Traded 601.80 601.80

Symbol

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.91

Quantity Traded 3,800 3,800

Value Traded 6,916.00 6,916.00

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH NIG-GERMAN PHARMDEKO

No. of Deals 8 17 15 13 2 1 2 58

MORISON Daily Summary (Equities)

13

Page

IT Services

Current Price 2.70 3.01 70.00 2.14 1.85 7.36 1.57

60

6

of

13

Quantity Traded 37,000 847,580 98,384 218,808 23,000 2,704 50,019 1,277,495

Value Traded 95,154.00 2,625,888.00 6,895,317.28 457,843.22 40,480.00 18,928.00 78,527.17 10,212,137.67

1,281,465

10,219,655.47

Symbol COURTVILLE

No. of Deals 13 13

Current Price 0.70

Quantity Traded 1,131,085 1,131,085

Value Traded 778,257.94 778,257.94

Symbol

No. of Deals

Current Price

Quantity Traded

Value Traded

Symbol NCR TRIPPLEG

No. of Deals 5 3 8

Current Price 15.99 1.97

Symbol CHAMS

No. of Deals 22 22

Current Price 0.53

Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY ICT IT Services NCR (NIGERIA) PLC. TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC. IT Services Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Processing Systems CHAMS PLC Processing Systems Totals ICT Totals INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC DANGOTE CEMENT PLC Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 DN MEYER PLC. Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034 IPWA PLC PAINTS AND COATINGS MANUFACTURES PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE WAPCO PLC. Building Materials Totals

43 Symbol No. of Deals ASHAKACEM 48 BERGER 4 CAP 12 CCNN 13 DANGCEM 83 DNMEYER 2 IPWA 3 PAINTCOM 1 PORTPAINT 3 Daily Summary (Equities) WAPCO 49 218

Quantity Traded 10,000 329 10,329 Page Quantity Traded 7,675,504 7,675,504

Value Traded 157,162.65 618.52 157,781.17 7 of Value Traded 3,917,128.79 3,917,128.79

8,816,918

4,853,167.90

Current Price 16.99 9.87 45.25 9.70 237.00 1.48 0.57 1.90 5.40 110.01

Quantity Traded 552,420 24,487 15,052 48,178 540,998 7,131 71,678 500 24,000 2,466,920 3,751,364

Value Traded 9,052,386.90 236,953.76 677,979.46 450,937.70 128,394,730.50 10,054.71 40,856.46 975.00 123,360.00 271,359,299.80 410,347,534.29

13

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

2 of 13 Value Traded 104,594,495.67

3

Value Traded 266,347,263.31 143,403,551.45 176,900,100.06 5,056,970.23 248,899,718.64 6,717,743.18 29,790,913.75 78,234,974.34 13,204,829.33

Quantity Traded Page 1,200 1,180,650 403,350 422,378 502 14,405 10 600,000 66,501 1,000 96,000 1,000 1,452,338 17,381 1,397,635 2,237,424 1,235 8,514

Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC NIGERIA-GERMAN CHEMICALS PLC. PHARMA-DEKO PLC. Pharmaceuticals Totals

Value Traded 13 751,122.00 of 13 751,122.00

No. of Deals 7 7

Quantity Traded 36,022,479 20,973,547 12,456,611 2,254,193 9,978,329 1,814,947 13,252,276 10,298,575 1,354,618

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

134,124,536.04

Symbol JBERGER

281,969,796.29

Current Price 0.50 0.84 1.07 0.54 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.67 0.50 0.50 2.19 0.50 0.81 0.50 0.50 0.56 0.50 0.50

Published

by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © HEALTHCARE

321,479.00

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

8,923,474

Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Symbol No. of Deals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © AFRICAN ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC AFRINSURE 2 AIICO INSURANCE PLC. AIICO 25 CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CONTINSURE 4 CORNERSTONE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC. CORNERST 15 EQUITY ASSURANCE PLC. EQUITYASUR 2 GUINEA INSURANCE PLC. GUINEAINS 7 CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC HMARKINS 1 INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC INTENEGINS 5 LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. LASACO 2 LAW UNION AND ROCK INS. PLC. LAWUNION 1 MANSARD INSURANCE PLC MANSARD 6 MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. MBENEFIT 1 Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 N.E.M15:14:34.034 INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. NEM 18 Printed 06/03/2014 NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. NIGERINS 2 OASIS INSURANCE PLC OASISINS 5 PRESTIGE ASSURANCE CO. PLC. PRESTIGE 13 Daily Summary (Equities) STANDARD ALLIANCE INSURANCE PLC. STDINSURE 1 UNIC INSURANCE PLC. UNIC 1

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals

Value Traded 321,479.00 321,479.00 12

Value Traded 16,309,312.41 7,312,232.86 23,621,545.27

Quantity Traded 434,300 2,281,353 47,130,825 158,252,053

HEALTHCARE Totals

NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) Exchange Traded Fund Totals

Current Price 7.31 6.86 14.20 2.23 25.00 3.72 2.30 7.56 9.75

Quantity Traded 471,181 155,922 627,103

Current Price 0.50 1.05 21.45

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

Daily Summary (ETP) Daily Summary as of Traded 06/03/2014 Exchange Fund Printed 06/03/2014 Name 15:14:34.034

Current Price 34.80 48.46

No. of Deals 9 28 221 1,466

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © FINANCIAL SERVICES Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services UNIVERSAL INSURANCE COMPANY PLC WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

Value Traded Value Traded 153,745.00 48,965.90 153,745.00 2,064,787.29 2,113,753.19 11 of 13 6,194,759.89

337,463,709

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

CONSUMER GOODS Totals

Value Traded 163,477,526.93 of 13 63,477,526.93

Hotels/Lodging IKEJA HOTEL PLC Hotels/Lodging Totals

Printing/Publishing ACADEMY PRESS PLC. Daily Summary as of 06/03/2014 LEARN AFRICA PLC Printed 06/03/2014 15:14:34.034 STUDIO PRESS (NIG) PLC. UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC. Printing/Publishing Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Published by The Nigerian Exchange © Electronic andStock Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals

Symbol CUTIX

No. of Deals 4 4

Current Price 2.01

Page Quantity Traded 50,832 50,832

8Value Traded of 13 101,664.00 101,664.00

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

Symbol AVONCROWN BETAGLAS

No. of Deals 1 1 2

Current Price 1.63 19.45

Quantity Traded 4,687 3,800 8,487

Value Traded 7,264.85 72,200.00 79,464.85

Tools and Machinery NIGERIAN ROPES PLC Tools and Machinery Totals

Symbol NIGROPES

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 7.46

Quantity Traded 6,166 6,166

Value Traded 43,716.94 43,716.94

3,816,849

410,572,380.08

Quantity Traded 756 756

Value Traded 378.00 378.00

756

378.00

Quantity Traded 1,852,653 1,852,653

Value Traded 931,915.54 931,915.54

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals NATURAL RESOURCES Mining Services MULTIVERSE PLC Mining Services Totals

225 Symbol MULTIVERSE

NATURAL RESOURCES Totals OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals 13

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

1 Symbol JAPAULOIL

No. of Deals 25 25

Current Price 0.50

Page

9

of

13

50 FOREIGN TRIAL Witness relates how embattled athlete tried to revive shot girlfriend

A

s the girlfriend he shot lay dead or dying in his home, a weeping, praying Oscar Pistorius knelt at her side and struggled in vain to help her breathe by holding two fingers in her clenched mouth, a witness testified yesterday at the double-amputee runner's murder trial. "'I shot her. I thought she was a burglar. I shot her,"'radiologist Johan Stipp recalled Pistorius saying.

A few minutes later, Stipp said, Pistorius went upstairs -- the area where he had shot Reeva Steen-

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

Pistorius prayed over his shot girlfriend, witness says kamp -- and then returned.

At that point, Stipp said he was concerned that the gun used in the shooting had not been recovered and that a distraught Pistorius was going to harm himself. The testimony did not address what Pistorius did when he went upstairs.

The testimony in a provincial court was the first detailed, public description of the immediate aftermath of the shooting of Steenkamp, a 29-year-old model, by the Paralympic champion in the pre-dawn hours of February 14 -Valentine's Day -- last year.

At his bail hearing last year, Pistorius said in a statement read by Roux that, after he realized he had shot Steenkamp, he pulled on his prosthetic legs and tried to kick down the toilet door before finally giving up and bashing it in with a cricket bat. Inside, he said he found Steenkamp, slumped over, but still alive. He said he lifted

her bloodied body and carried her downstairs to seek medical help.

"It was obvious that she was mortally wounded," Stipp said as he described what he saw at Pistorius' villa. "At the bottom of the stairs ... there was a lady lying on her back on the floor."

As a radiologist, Stipp is a medical doctor with years of study, and he

said he used his expertise to try to save the shot woman.

"I tried to assist her."

Stipp said. "I tried to open an airway."

Sitting on a courtroom bench, Pistorius bent forward and put his hand over his face, then moved them to cover both ears, as Stipp spoke. He stayed that way for a while, even when one of his lawyers

reached back and, in a gesture of reassurance, touched him on the head.

"I went near her and as I bent down, I also noticed a man on the left kneeling by her side," Stipp said under questioning by prosecutor Gerrie Nel. "He had his left hand on her right groin, and his right hand, the second and third fingers in her mouth."

Crimea's parliament votes in favor of leaving Ukraine for Russia

T

he parliament of the disputed Crimean Peninsula has voted in favour of leaving Ukraine to become part of Russia, with a referendum on endorsing the move to be held later this month.

The parliament, which enjoys a degree of autonomy under current Ukrainian law, voted 78-0 with eight abstentions in favour of holding the referendum and joining Russia.

Local voters will also be given the choice of deciding to remain part of Ukraine, but with enhanced local powers.

The development came just as the United States yesterday imposed visa restrictions and set the stage for other potential sanctions over the Russian intervention in Crimea.

US President Barack Obama was ordering visa bans "in response to Russia's ongoing violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," the White House said.

In an executive order, Obama also authorized the blocking of property

of officials and individuals implicit in such action.

"This (executive order) is a flexible tool that will allow us to sanction those who are most directly involved in destabilizing Ukraine, including the military intervention in Crimea, and does not preclude further steps should the situation deteriorate," the administration said.

The move comes after Russian forces took de facto control of strategically important Crimea, home to Kremlin's Black Sea Fleet, following the ouster, on February 22, of Ukraine's pro-Moscow president, Viktor Yanukovych.

M e a n w h i l e , Crimea’s deputy prime minister has labeled Ukrainian forces as “occupiers” who must leave the region or surrender, according to Reuters.

Ukraine’s interim government is declaring the referendum illegal, while opening a criminal investigation against Crimea’s Prime Minister, Sergei Askyonov, Reuters reports.

Topless activists of the Ukrainian protest group, FEMEN, demonstrates against Russian intervention in Ukraine and in support of US sanctions yesterday in New York's Times Square

Ugandan president wants poachers 'shot on sight'

Tunisia lifts state of emergency after three years

U

T

ganda's president has said armed poachers operating in national parks should be shot on sight because of the damage they could inflict on tourism to the central African nation, according to his spokesman.

Yoweri Museveni made the comments during a visit to Kidepo National Park, a remote savannah situated on the border with conflicthit South Sudan and restive northern Kenya -- areas that are both awash with weapons.

"Those with guns who cross to disturb, you should shoot them," the president was quoted as telling border security guards.

The president's spokesman, Tamale Mirudi, confirmed the comments, saying Museveni was "just stressing

the importance of security in the national park, preservation of animals and the safety of the tourists."

"You can cripple tourism for years when one European is killed in a national park," he said.

"The president is not saying that all the poachers should be killed on site.

What the president is saying is stressing the importance of security in national parks, even if that requires shooting them on site," he added.

Tourism accounts for 3.7 percent of the country's GDP, according to World Bank figures, although the sector is seen as ripe for potential growth as would-be visitors look further afield from the more traditional and crowded safari destinations in Kenya or Tanzania.

hree years after Tunisia's revolution, President Moncef Marzouki has lifted the state of emergency in place since January 2011, his office said yesterday. ``The President of the Republic and commander of the armed forces, Moncef Marzouki promulgated a decree ordering the lifting of the state of emergency on all Tunisian territory,’’ the presidency said in a statement.

The state of emergency was imposed to combat lawlessness after the revolution that ousted dictator, El Abidine Ali in January 2011.

Over the past three years, it was repeatedly extended to allow successive interim governments keep a handle on social unrest and combat the rise of Islamist extremists, who were accused of two political assassinations in 2013.

However, several members of the security forces have been killed in gun battles with suspected Islamist militants along the western border with Algeria, in poor central towns like Sidi Bouzid and the north of the capital, Tunis.

The statement said that in the past months, the security forces have appeared to gain the upper hand.

IAAF World Indoor: Nigeria begins quest for medals Charles Ogundiya

N

igeria athletes’ quest for medals at the 13th edition of the IAAF world indoor championship holding in Sopot, Poland begins today with the 400 Metres heat.

George Regina, the only Nigeria athlete fly-

ing Nigeria colour in the event will be competing in the heat for a chance to make it to the finals of the competition.

On Saturday, it will be the turn of the 4X400m relay team (men and women) while Gloria Asumnu will also be in action in the 60m event.

SPORT

AUTHORITATIVE VOICE IN GLOBAL SPORT

51

Two of Nigeria’s medal hopefuls, sprint queen and long jumper, Blessing Okagbare, and shot putter, Stephen Mozia, were not registered for the competition. Nigeria’s best outing at the World Indoor championship was in 1997 when late Sunday Bada won the gold in the 400m event.

NEW TELEGRAPH

Did you know?

newtelegraphonline.com/sports

That Bulgaria was the only soccer team in the 1994 World Cup in which all 11 players’ last names ended with the letters “OV.”

ADEKUNLE SALAMI, DepUTY Editor, SPORTS kunle.salami@newtelegraphonline.com adekunles@yahoo.com

FRIday, MARCH 7, 2014

Emmanuel Tobi

T

he Federal Government has expressed disappointment over the embarrassment shown by the Super Eagles when they appeared in jerseys that does not resemble the national colours of the country against Mexico in an international friendly in USA early Thursday morning.

Mexico and Nigeria played out a goalless draw inside the Georgia CONTINUED ON PAGE 51

Presidency to probe Eagles’ poor jerseys lTo Call NSC, NFF for explanation

Dstv B/Ball League: Dondan Warriors, Hoopers light up Lagos

}p-53

These Eagles can’t fly in Brazil, say Adiele, Ekong }p-53

Mikel (right) contesting for the ball with a Mexican player during Thursday’s International friendly match in Atlanta, USA

Old

Maigari hands over land deeds to Eagles }p-55

New

52 SPORT

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

SportLifestyle NEW TELEGRAPH

www.newtelegraphonline.com/Sport

WITH Tobi Emmanuel

0805 400 5669

princetobby@yahoo.com tobi.emmanuel@newtelegraphonline.com

Blessing

OKAGBARE Nigeria’s 100m and Long Jump Champion

stew palm oil h it w e e ric rite d: Whit rry juice favou oo f t e s Be ranb rink: C lack d t s e ce B ur: B co, Fran r United a n o colo M t : Bes heste ited ity vis orted: Manc c t s e p B ub sup Best cl : BMW X6 rd ar Best c igner: Tom fo right crystal s e eb nyolds Best d fume: Versac Jonathan Mcre er by Best p ovin me L : c i s u Best m or: Tyler Perry olie aJ ct 2013 Best a ress: Angelin nded: e t t a ct ever Best a tition e p m Best co ague.

Le London

TURNING POINT

IKE SHORUNMU

Charles Ogundiya

“M

y rise to the top didn’t come on a platter of gold. While breaking into Stationery Stores first team then in Lagos, I have to contend with two good goalkeepers; Presly Barto and Abiodun Baruwa.

After Algiers ’90, Presly lost his first team shirt to me and as God will have it, I became the first choice goalkeeper, but Baruwa was in the background and we continued the rivalry when we both moved to 3SC of Ibadan.

“I will say the employment of Clemens Westerhof brought about my rise in the game. This was a man who loves watching players in the local league and I was discovered in one of his scouting around the country.

From there, I was invited to the national team in 1991 for the ECOWAS Games in Lagos. I can’t really remember my first game for Nigeria; it should be against Ethiopia or Kenya.

“But what really turned my career around was my movement from FC

Zurich of Switzerland to Besiktas, you know as a footballer, you have to give your best when the opportunity comes, I grabbed the opportunity given to me while in Zurich and since then it has been upward movement even till now.

“It was during this period that I became the mainstay of the national team, I was between the sticks during Nigeria’s spirited march to the finals of the Nigeria-Ghana 2000 Africa Nations Cup, though we lost on penalties to Cameroun. I was also at the World Cup with the national team in 2002.

“I was the national team goalkeeper trainer, first under Austin Eguavoen and later, Samson Siasia and now Stephen Keshi. Despite not winning the AFCON as a player, God allowed me to lift the trophy as a coach. Seriously, I have been favoured

by God so far in my career. Despite all the ups and downs, I have been at the top of my career.

“I will also say that God has given me wisdom to put my life in order during my career, I don’t drink, smoke

or womanise, when I look back now, talk of the salaries, the bonuses, the advertisement money, bonuses from the national team, they are something else, but when you stopped playing, everything stopped.

“The only thing is that when I was getting those incentives, I put it at the back of my mind that one day all these will stop, so I looked at what I can do to secure my future and not be cash strapped. I started thinking, if I do this, is it going to yield that, if I do that, is it going to yield this. I really want to thank God for everything, the little ones I invested in, Allah has been blessing me.

“I have worked under so many coaches but one that I will never forget was Prof. Augustine Ofokwu, It is a pity that we’ve lost the man now, he was one coach that anytime, anyday, I will always give my respect. When I was with Stationery Stores, he taught me a lot of things, and anytime I remember this man, I thank God. It’s a pity he is no more, may his soul rest in perfect peace.”

SPORT 53

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

These Eagles can’t fly in Brazil, say Adiele, Ekong

defence was made to work harder because of the inefficiency of the attack and midfield and that the result should not be a yardstick for judging the team; rather it should be used to identify its efficiency.

“Let us leave sentiments aside and focus on how our national team could make impact at the 2014 World Cup. Nigeria will be a whipping side if nothing is done immediately.

On his on part, Ekong, praised the resilience of the defenders who worked tirelessly without conceding a goal and asked Keshi to bring back the attackers that have been left out.

“I was not impressed with Eagles attack against Mexico because they lacked the bite of a World Cup team.

They did not create scoring enough chances, which is bad,” Ekong said. Moses (right) battling a Mexican player during Thursday’s International friendly match

Chimaobi Uchendu

A

frica Nations Cup winner and former Green Eagles player, David Adiele, and for mer junior international Chris Ekong, have asked Super Eagles technical crew to restructure the midfield and attack if Nigeria is to make any impact at the World Cup in Brazil.

Adiele, who resides in the United States of America told New Telegraph on the telephone that he watched the match live at the stadium when Eagles played against Mexico in the United States concluded that it would be tough at the world Cup for Nigeria if the two departments were not restructured immediately.

He argued that the Super Eagles

I’ll build on what Abdullahi has done –Danagogo Jude Opara and Mercy Jacob

N

ewly appointed Minister of Sports and Social Development, TamunoDanagogo, who assumed duty in Abuja on Thursday has assured Nigerians that his coming into sports is not to destroy what his predecessor, BolajiAbdullahi, has done.

The Director General of the NSC, Gbenga Elegbeleye, received Danagogo at the Federal Secretariat in Abuja.

Danagogo, a lawyer by profession and member, All Stars International Port Harcourt, while speaking on Brila FM said he would work closely with all the sporting associations even as he targets a befitting outing at the World

Danagogo

Cup in Brazil.

He said, “When I resume into any new office, I don’t start work immediately without looking at what my predecessor has done and the ones in

the pipeline awaiting implementation, the Sports Ministry is not going to be exception.

“Abdullahi has done pretty well and I’m aiming to surpass whatever he has done. I want to promise Nigerians that better days are ahead and that they should look forward to winning more laurels by the grace of God. “I am hoping to start with the Super Eagles at the World Cup in Brazil.

I am a sports lover and I promise to collaborate with all the sporting federations to see how we can move forward. I will also, as much as possible, try to see that our preparation for any tournament starts early because I don’t believe in fire bridgade approach.”

DSTV Premier Basketball League gets underway Ifeanyi Ibeh

F

ollowing last Friday’s exhibition game between Police Baton and Oluyole Warriors in Lagos, the 2013/14 DSTV Premier Basketball League season finally gets underway today with eight matches scheduled for today.

In Kano, reigning champions, Kano Pillars, will be looking to start the season on a bright note as they welcome Gombe Bulls in the opening game of the Savannah Conference.

Last season, Pillars went on a 32-game winning streak, and only

suffered their first loss of the campaign during the Final Four tournament in Lagos to Union Bank, who will take on Kwara Falcons in Lagos.

The match between Union Bank, who finished last season in the second spot, and Falcons, is scheduled for the National Stadium, and is one of three Savannah Conference games billed to hold at the 41-yearold stadium today.

The other games will see Islanders taking on Customs, and last season’s third-place finishers, Dodan Warriors squaring up against Port Harcourt-based Royal Hoopers.

DSTV Basketball League action

Know Football Nigeria takes centre stage

T

he stage is finally set for the much talked about football knowledge contest ‘So you think you know football Nigeria?’ season 1, coming up Saturday, March 8, inside the Oriental Hotel, Lagos.

The sports knowledge contest is aimed at discovering who Nigeria’s most knowledgeable football fans are with a view to rewarding them. The event will also see official sponsors and Nigeria’s pioneer sports betting site nairabet.com conducting a raffle draw to reward its most consistent users since the inception of the 2013/14 football season.

According to the organisers, GIE ArtLeads, the event will have two parts: the competition proper, which will involve contestants battling each other to see who comes out tops; and the raffle draw where lucky nairabet users will get to win a host of prizes, including a trip to Brazil to see the FIFA world cup.

Popular sports presenter and host of the event, George Essien; “What A Rush” revealed that at the end of the event, two people will get the opportunity to watch the Super Eagles live in Brazil - the contest’s winner and the lucky pick in the raffle draw.

Other prizes to be won in the contest and raffle draw include return tickets to Dubai, TV sets, Ipad, DSTV decoders plus subscription, Jerseys and cash prizes.

Heading the event as judges will be former Super Eagles coach, Samson Siasia, CEO Nairabet, Akin Alabi, Segun Agbede-Supersports analyst and Femi Obong-Daniels, head of sports at CoolWazobiaInfo.

54 SPORT | INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

England can win World Cup, insists Mourinho

C

helsea manager Jose Mourinho believes England can win the FIFA World Cup, despite the low expectations surrounding the team. England face a difficult challenge to get out of their World Cup group, which features Italy, Uruguay and Costa Rica.

Speaking after being unveiled as Yahoo’s global football ambassador for 2014, Mourinho said: “England, everybody says ‘no, no, no, no, no.’ I always say, ‘why not?’ Because I don’t understand why not.

“When I see the players and the experience of

Brazil and South Africa

Brazil coach praises Bafana Bafana B razil Coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari has heaped praise on the South Africa team, saying that his side’s 5-0 drubbing of South Africa in Wednesday’s international friendly does not paint the full picture of the game.

“The scoreline doesn’t actually tell the whole story. I think South Africa played very well. They moved the ball well and they’re a good team,” said the 65-year-old. “It’s actually a surprise that this team isn’t at the World Cup, the way they play,” Scolari said.

“The difference between the teams is that we have some very special, quality players.”

Spain coach tips Costa to improve

Wenger’s a magician – Nasri

M

anchester City attacker Samir Nasri has come out to defend former coach Arsenal boss, Arsene Wenger.

Nasri signed for Arsenal in 2008 as a 21-year-old from Marseille for £14 million and made 125 appearances for the Gunners scoring 27 goals in all competitions across his four terms in North London before joining City in 2011 for £25 million.

After making demeaning comments about Arsenal since his move, mostly in response to fans questioning his motives for moving to the Etihad, the attacking midfielder has now leapt to defend his former manager and countryman.

know how to play for the big clubs; they play in the Champions League which is probably the most difficult football in the world, so I don’t see why they don’t (perform at the World Cup). I don’t see why. So one day they have to do.

“I know it is (a tough group), but I don’t think Uruguay and Italy will find it easy to play against England. I think it is the kind of group where everybody is waiting for the first match, and the first defeat will put immediately one team in a very difficult situation.”

Friendly match results Mexico 0–0 Iran 1–2 Russia 2–0 Algeria 2–0 Greece 0–2 Montenegro 1 – 0 South Africa 0 – 5 Bosnia 0–2 Czech Rep 2 – 2 Israel 1–3 Colombia 1 – 1 Turkey 2–1 Romania 0–0 Ukraine 2–0 Austria 1–1 Switzerland 2 – 2 Belgium 2–2 Germany 1–0 Wales 3–1 Australia 3–4 England 1–0 France 2–0 Portugal 5–1 Spain 1–0 Japan 4–2

Nigeria Guinea Armenia Slovenia South Korea Ghana Brazil Egypt Norway Slovakia Tunisia Sweden Argentina USA Uruguay Croatia Ivory Coast Chile Iceland Ecuador Denmark Netherlands Cameroon Italy New Zealand

Vietnam defender gets Guardiola to offload Robben However, although the 28-match ban domestic title looks in their hands, Guardiola wants to over tackle secure a second consecutive

V

S

pain coach, Vincente Del Bosque, believes Diego Costa’s performances will improve as he settles in to the national team.

Costa made his Spain debut in Wednesday’s 1-0 win over Italy and coach Vicente Del Bosque feels he will do better in future games now that the pressure of his first appearance has been dealt with.

“We brought vibrancy to our game and moved the ball around quickly and well,” Del Bosque told reporters after the final whistle.

“We were also alert when Italy were advancing on our goal. All of our players will become stronger.

The former Chelsea manager was also full of praises for his team who can be credited with an impressive workrate as well as ruthless finishing.

“There were a lot Nasri of times when we had players working hard for the team and not for themselves, then the special players c a n take advantage, as the guys who work hard open spaces for them,” Scolari said.

the players and the clubs where they play, I don’t understand why one day it cannot happen.”

The Portuguese conceded England do underachieve at major competitions and may have a difficult time avoiding doing so again in Group D. “I think so (that England underachieve) because (the Premier League) is the best championship in the world; it is the most competitive one,” he added.

“They (the players) know what the big stage is; they know how to play under pressure; they

Costa

ietnam defender Tran Dinh Dong has received a huge 28-match ban for breaking an opponent’s leg in a domestic league match. Dong, who plays for Song Lam Nghe An, was handed the suspension and a fine of 20 million VND (£568) for a foul on Hung Vuong An Giang midfielder Nguyen Anh Hung during their V-League clash, which Song Lam Nghe An won 1-0.

Hung is now said to be facing a year on the sidelines, while Dong will be out of action until 2015 as a result of the ban, although Song Lam Nghe An have announced their intention to appeal the decision.

B

ayern Munich winger Arjen Robben could leave the club this summer despite his plea to remain with the club as boss Pep Guardiola looks to freshen up his Bayern side.

The former Barcelona coach took over at the Allianz Arena in the summer and has guided the Bavarian side 20 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga.

title with Bayern, following Juup Heynckes victory last season.

Should Guardiola do that then he will look to freshen his squad up for next season, meaning the likes of Robben could leave.

Robben made his feelings known earlier this year when linked with numerous other clubs, saying he wants to remain with Bayern.

But Guardiola is keen to occupy the same philosophy he had at Barcelona, changing his front attacking three and allowing youthful talent to prosper.

SPORT 55

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 7, 2014

hands over Sport Trending Balogun for surgery Maigari land deeds to Eagles in Germany P TWITTER |@NTelegraphSport

George Abbey Well done Eagles, if you can’t win don’t lose #Mexico 0 Eagles 0. @GeorgeAbbey15 Leon Balogun Me with Super Eagle @MichaelUchebo today in ATL! lNewly capped defender, Leon Balogun, after posting a picture of himself and Michael Uchebo on Twitter. @LeonBalogun Samuel Eto’o The name @Carles5puyol will forever remain engraved in the annals of Football history. In advance, Good luck brother. lCameroon striker, Samuel Eto’o, wishing his former Barcelona teammate, Carles Puyol, all the best. @setoo9 Zlatan Ibrahimović Hey @MATUIDIBlaise I saw your goal last night.

Magnifique. You must have been watching Zlatan in training. @Ibra_official Blaise MATUIDI Hey @Ibra_official you teach me that move... LOL @MATUIDIBlaise

Per Mertesacker As a young boy and now-very proud to be a gunner! Thanks fans for your support. Happy to have extended with Arsenal lPer Mertesacker after extending his deal at Arsenal. He even posted a picture of himself as a little kid in an Arsenal jersey. @mertesacker

F

ortuna Dusseldorf of Germany defender, Leon Balogun, will undergo surgery in Germany, when he returns to his base this weekend after he suffered a fractured foot in the international friendly between Nigeria and Mexico on Wednesday in Atlanta Georgia, the United States.

Super Eagles doctor, Ibrahim Gyaran, told Head Coach, Stephen Keshi, that it was the best option open to the young defender and the surgery would effectively rule him out for up to eight weeks.

The medics explained that they if he does not carry out any surgery, it could take him a longer time to return to action (up to 4months) hence the surgery option. His club medics have already been briefed about the development even as Keshi is praying for a fast re-

covery.

Balogun was involved in a horrific fall with a Mexican striker near the dug house of the El Tri midway into the second half of the encounter and hit his legs against objects in the technical area, forcing the Nigerian bench to replace him even when he came on only in the second half of the game.

The player himself said it was painful that he copped the injury but added that he has no regret making a decision to play for Nigeria. “I am a Nigerian, my father is from Ijebu Ode and my mother is half Italian and half German so I chose to play for my fatherland and I am enjoying it so far. The only thing at the moment is that I don’t understand Pidgin English, which many speak in camp but I will soon catch up because I like the atmosphere in the Eagles camp.”

Eagles get conduct code booklet

Daniel Sturridge Great team win. Always a pleasure to play for England. I’m humbled by all that God blesses me with. @D_Sturridge

T

Micah Richards Buzzing for @kschmeichel1 product of the youth system at mcfc! Class keeper class guy. Fully deserves everything. lMan City defender, Micah Richards, praises Denmark number one and former City teammate, Kasper Schmeichel. @MicahRichards David Silva Good match against Italy which is always a difficult rival.

Now to think about the next club game. @21LVA Roger Federer Great to be back. Love it here. lRoger Federer pleased to be back at Indian Wells. @rogerfederer Tom Huddlestone Marvellous the way the Spanish knock the ball around!!

Brilliant to watch. lEngland midfielder, Tom Huddlstone, shows his admiration for Spain during their 1-0 win over Italy. @Huddz8

Balogun

Presidency to probe Eagles’ poor jerseys CO N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 5 1

Dome in Atlanta as part of preparations for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

New Telegraph can report that the jerseys which does not represent the green and white colour of Nigeria was launched in Abuja last week by the Nigeria Football Federation and National Sports Commission, a move the Presidency maintained does not project the true image of the country.

It was authoritatively learnt that the Director General of the NSC, Gbenga Elegbeleye, who was at the inauguration of the jersey, has been directed to query the NFF over the issue.

According to our source, “The Super Eagles are one of the biggest

layers and officials of the Super Eagles were excited on Wednesday in Atlanta, Georgia, when the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Aminu Maigari, handed over to them Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) of plots of land promised them by the Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke, for their triumph in last year’s Nations Cup. “It is my pleasure to present to you the Certificates of Occupancy of plots of land promised you by Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State, a true lover and supporter of Nigeria football, for your victory at the 2013 Nations Cup. “Governor Imoke has once more demonstrated that he is a man of his words.

He has also told me that he has something special for you if you do Nigeria and Africa proud at the FIFA World Cup finals in Brazil. “He will be there in Brazil to support you,” Maigari told the players and officials, following their impressive 0-0 draw with 19th place-ranked Mexico in an international friendly at the Georgian Dome.

ambassadors of the country but the jerseys against Mexico do not portray the good image of our countries. We can’t toy with our national identity. The NFF and the NSC must explain why we are branded in such manners.”

He added; “The World Cup is the biggest sporting event beside the Olympics and we can’t allow this show of shame to continue because the era of giving Nigeria sub-standard quality is over.”

It was the third successive draw between the two teams in the space of six years.

In May 2003, both teams played out a 2-2 draw after they had previously played another draw in 2007.

Green House wins Ebenezer School’s sports

G

reen House yesterday emerged the winners of this year’s biennial inter-house sports of Ebenezer Montessori School held at the Agege Stadium.

In a keenly contested event witnessed by parents and special guests, Green House stole the show with a slim margin of seven gold, three silver and six bronze medals.

While the first runners-up, Red House, who are the defending champions, won six gold, twelve silver and two bronze medals. They were closely followed by Blue House with six gold, four silver and 10 bronze medals.

Speaking at the occasion, which also was the 21st anniversary of the school, the Proprietress of the school, Mrs. B. A. Efuniyi said, “all works and no play makes Jack a dull boy, the purpose of school sports is to help the children burn excess energy and keep fit and to also help discover future athletes for the nation.”

he Nigeria Football Federation is taking nothing to chance as it seeks a decent performance at this year’s World Cup in Brazil and better conduct by players and officials of all national team in the future.

The NFF during the week in, Atlanta Georgia, the United States, handed out the much-hyped handbook on code of conduct while in the national team to players and officials of the Super Eagles. The 18-page document clearly outlines what is expected of players, officials and even the federation during camping and major tournaments.

NFF President, Alhaji Aminu Maigari, in company with Chairman, Technical Committee, Chris Green and NFF Director, Technical, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, came with the documents and handed them over to the team through Team Adminstrator, Dayo Enebi, who has since distributed them to the players and officials of the team.

“The document is done in good faith and to ensure that players and officials know their obligations and how to properly conduct themselves, while the NFF will ensure that it also fulfils its own part of the bargain during major tournaments”, Maigari said.

Vincent Enyeama, Eagles Captain

World Record

On Marble Gossip is the poison of people with little minds – Anon

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 FRIday, MARCH 7, 2014.

HAZY More questions are thrown up as the Boko Haram war heats up

T

he vinyl record, also known as the gramophone record, was a ground-breaking technological step-up in the storage and reproduction of sound, and the music industry milked it to the hilt. Such was its dominance that it held sway, undergoing systemic evolutions, until the late 20th century, when another technological innovation, the compact disc, forced it off the mainstream.

The vinyl record is still hanging in there as a format with a rich market in some parts of the world, as some audiophiles still believe that it has better sound fidelity than the compact disc, its shortcomings notwithstanding.

One of those shortcomings has even become a contemporary idiomatic expression. To get the sound from the record, it has to be played on a turntable with a tone-arm tracking the grooves on the record through a needle called a stylus. A scratch on the disc could make the stylus skip to the next groove or even skip back to the previous groove. Worse still, it could just stay stuck in the groove. Thus the same lyrics or words would keep replaying, giving rise to the phrase sounding like a broken record.

Since 2009, Nigeria has been faced with an insurgency and the military campaign to put an end to the Boko Haram threat may have cost the country well over N1trillion. There are divergent views about the cause of the insurgency which has festered like a sore. This is not the impression government wants the public to have. It would prefer that most of us accept that the insurgents are not only on the back foot, but have been so decimated that the only existing Boko Haram members are an insignificant remnant.

The State of Emergency which was declared in the three states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa, the former two being the heartland of the insurgents, has forced Boko Haram to withdraw its suicide bombing operations in far flung places outside its dominant region. The withdrawal, however, is not the same as having the insurgents being put to the sword. Yet at every given opportunity, the official position of the administration is couched in words like “being on top of the situation” that are designed to lull us into a false sense of all being well. Is this a deliberate subterfuge?

Two revealing things happened last

Walter Toledo, a Brazilian, is the youngest person to circumnavigate earth by aircraft between July 8 and August 29, 2012. He was 20 years, 269 days.

N150

Stuck in the spin groove

Graffiti EMMAN USMAN SHEHU

week. First, Boko Haram, apparently to show that it is very much active and to disprove the widely publicised claim of one of the newly appointed military top shots that April would be the group’s Nunc Dimittis, registered its eerie capabilities by striking in the three states sequentially with a gory death toll. The attacks have stretched into this week despite official claims that the insurgents are being decimated.

The second situation was not from the Boko Haram camp but it is a damning eye-opener. It was from the other side. A prominent aide to President Jonathan on Media (Internet/Social Media), Reno Omokri was caught impudently trying to create online, a scenario that would link the suspended Central Bank Governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, with the insurgents.

A savvy internet user painstakingly traced the digital footprints which

Since 2009, Nigeria has been faced with an insurgency and the military campaign to put an end to the Boko Haram threat may have cost the country well over N1trillion

linked Wendell Simlin, the supposed author of the email sent to show that Sanusi had recently provided funding to Boko Haram, to Omokri.

Both developments have surprised a lot of Nigerians. For some of us though, the Omokri situation serves to confirm a long held suspicion that the fight against Boko Haram has been clouded with a lot of deliberate misinformation or spin designed to serve some other purpose.

After the Madalla bomb blast, one Kabiru Sokoto was apprehended and presented as the mastermind. The saga of his escape, recapture and trial culminated in a life sentence but it failed to prove the veracity of a mastermind as a close study of the case shows. Indeed, at some point the prosecution had to amend its charges and focus on the allegation that “ he had prior knowledge that the sect planned to bomb the church on Christmas day but failed to disclose it to any law enforcement officer as soon as reasonably practicable.” Nothing was revealed about the planning of the bombing that one would expect of a mastermind.

This is significant because knowing how the bombings are planned would be vital in fighting the insurgency.

In November 2011, Senator Mohammed Ndume was arraigned for having links with Boko Haram allegedly based on the confession by Ali Sanda Umar Konduga, aka, “Usman Al-Zawahiri” who described himself as spokesperson of the Boko Haram. In a strange trial of Konduga, which would certainly earn a place in the Guiness Book of Records for the speed of its execution and lack of proper procedure which was even challenged by one Ms Regina Okotie-Eboh, a human rights activist, he was handed over to the State Security Service (SSS) to serve the three-year sentence.

Blogger Kayode Ogundamisi soon posted the following material on his blog site which has gone largely unnoticed: “Ali Sanda Umar Konduga (A.K.A) Usman Al-Zawahiri, the man

paraded by Nigeria’s secret police as a Boko-Haram spokesperson, was expelled by the Islamic Sect in February of 2011 for allegedly being a spy for the Nigerian State Security Service.

Konduga is not known to be an operational member of the sect and had been under ‘protective watch’ of the Nigerian Secret Police since February of 2011. Konduga is known to have unrestricted access to high ranking officials of Nigerian Secret Police (SSS) and top officials of the ruling People’s Democratic Party. Security sources claim the name ‘Usman Al-Zawahiri’ is a ‘franchise pseudo name’ used by the Boko-Haram sect, the same way ‘Jomo-Gbomo’ is used by the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta.

Disgruntled operatives in the State Security Service are said to be unhappy with Marlyn Ogah. A source claim(s) the SSS spokesperson is ‘putting field operatives at risk with politicization of investigations’.”

With the Omokri situation, which has only elicited a loud silence from both Omokri and the Presidency, it is becoming clear that something untoward has been happening. Is there a deliberate plan to get political and financial mileage from the insurgency, even if this means destroying the lives of innocent Nigerians by spinning this war? But the two events of the past week have shown that one side is stuck in the spin groove, and Nigerians may soon discern the truth.

OmoBaba BOMB DISCOVERED IN OSOGBO BANK - News

- Hmm... Boko Haram in S’West?

Printed and Published by Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Ltd: Head Office: No. 1A, Ajumobi Street, Off ACME Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja-Lagos.

Tel: +234 1-2219496, 2219498. Abuja Office: Orji Kalu House, Plot 322, by Banex Junction, Mabushi, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Advert Hotline: 01-8541248, Email: info@newtelegraphonline.com Website: www.newtelegraphonline.com ISSN 2354-4317 Editor: GABRIEL Akinadewo.