Friday, october 21, 2016

Customs dismiss 29 senior officers Bayo Akomolafe and Abdulwahab Isa

N

igeria Customs Service (NCS) has dismissed 29 senior

officers for various acts of misconduct.

The officers are among the 44 senior officers who were punished for actions

capable of compromising national economy and security.

They were accused of involvement in improper

examination and release of containers without proper documentation and payment of duties, illegal release of goods in advance

Offences

Improper examination and release of containers Illegal release of goods before arrival of vessels Collection of bribe to release prohibited items Release of export prohibition Fraudulent sale of seized items Use of fake certificates Took bribe to secure auctioned goods

before the arrival of vessels and collection of bribe to release prohibited items.

Customs added that CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Attacks on oil installations, vandalism crash monthly allocation by N90.2bn }5

Sanctity Of Truth

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

Mimiko's convoy commander assassinated }8

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Vol. 3 No. 975

Friday, October 21, 2016

Oyewole

Buhari nominates Mamora, Tallen, 44 others as ambassadors }5

Tallen

Mamora

N73m poll bribery: 130 INEC }6 officials face prosecution

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Mahmud

Ojukwu's chef held for N15m jewellery theft }9

N150

Agbeh

Justice Ngwuta opens up:

Amaechi begged me to cancel Fayose’s election ‘

–Justice Ngwuta

‘

‘

‘

He begged me to ensure that Fayose’s election was set aside and another election ordered... he said 'Oga is not happy'. I asked him who is the unhappy 'Oga' and he answered 'Buhari'

}4

Justice Ngwuta’s allegation is nothing but pure fiction, a dubious diversionary tale concocted to muddle the very serious issues of his arrest and investigation by the DSS –Rotimi Amaechi

His Royal Majesty, Omo n'Oba n'Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, after his coronation as the new Oba of Benin in Benin-City … yesterday.

Militancy: Avengers pull out of dialogue lSays FG dealing with ‘vultures, dialogue contractors’ IVF can't raise risk for breast cancer – Study }10

}7

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

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NEWS

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Amaechi begged me to cancel Fayose’s election –Justice Ngwuta

Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

J

ustice Sylvester Ngwuta of the Supreme Court yesterday accused the former Governor of Rivers State and Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, of begging him in 2013 to set aside the election of Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State.

He said this was to allow for a fresh election in which his friend and former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, was involved.

Amaechi has denied the allegation.

Justice Ngwuta is one of the two Supreme Court justices that were arrested and released on bail by the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged corruption.

This will be the second time in one week when Amaechi will be accused of complicity in governorship appeals.

Justice Inyang Okoro had on Tuesday accused Amaechi and the All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to bribe him to influence Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Abia governorship appeals.

Ngwuta’s allegation was contained in a letter he wrote to the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and

Chairman, National Judicial Council (NJC), Justice Mahmud Mohammed.

A top source in the office of the CJN confirmed the receipt of the letter.

Ngwuta wrote: “My present plight started sometime between 2013 and 2014. I represented the then Chief Justice of Nigeria in an event organised at the International Conference Centre. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi came in late and sat next to me at the high table. He introduced himself to me and we exchanged contacts.

A few weeks after, Fayose’s case was determined in the Court of Appeal. Amaechi called me by 6:45a.m. He said he had come to see me, but was told I had left for my office. When he said he would return in the evening, I demanded to know what he wanted, but he would not tell me. He did not come that evening, but came the following morning when I was already prepared to go to work.

He begged me to ensure that Fayose’s election was set aside and another election ordered for his friend Fayemi to contest. I told him I would not help him and that even if I am on the panel I have only one vote.”

He further submitted that after the Rivers State governorship election was determined by the Court of Appeal, Amaechi called

him and said his ears were full and he would like to tell him what he heard.

“I told him I was out of Abuja at the time. On my return, he came in the evening and even before he sat down, he barked: ‘You have seen Wike.’ I asked him whether that was a question or a statement. Then he made a call and asked me to speak with someone.

The man he called said he was a DSS man. We exchanged greetings and I handed the phone to him.

Next, he said: “Oga is not happy.” I asked him who is the unhappy “Oga” and he answered “Buhari.” I retorted: “Go and talk to his wife.” He got very angry and left, remarking “we shall see” several times.

“Your Lordship may recall one morning when I pleaded not be on the Panel for Rivers Appeal.

Your Lordship said I was already on the Panel and asked me to explain why I made the request to be excluded. When I explained what transpired the previous night, Your Lordship told me Amaechi had also attempted to influence other justices.

“My Lord, on the day we heard the appeal with Your Lordship presiding, we were allowed lunch break at 4:20p.m. The moment I got into my chambers, Amaechi, called. When

In your juicy

he told who was calling, I said to him: “Your Excellency, you want to issue more threats”? He replied: “Have you been threatened before?” I replied: “I know a threat when I hear one even if veiled. In any case I will not talk to you” and I switched off my phone,” he stated.

Justice Ngwuta further stated that the people who failed in their attempt to destroy him in Ebonyi in 2000 and in Enugu in Andy Uba’s case in the Court of Appeal, Enugu, in 2009, are now supplying Amaechi with information to fight him for his negative response to his demands, especially his answer to his statement that “Oga was not happy.”

“This infuriated him and as he stormed out, he said he would deal with the situation.”

Justice Ngwuta also accused the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, of making attempt to compromise him on the Ebonyi State governorship poll.

His words: “When the Governorship Election Appeal from my state, Ebonyi, came to the Court of Appeal, one Mr. Igwenyi, a senior staff of Federal Judicial Service Commission came to my chambers and told me that the former Governor of Abia State,

Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, had pleaded with him to convince me to see him (Onu).

I asked him to call Dr. Onu; he did and I wanted to know why he wanted to see me.

He said it was confidential.

I asked when he wanted to see me and he said he would like me to come in the evening. I told Igwenyi that he would have to take me to Dr. Onu in his car and bring me back. I had wanted him to listen to what Dr. Onu had to say, but when we arrived, Dr. Onu put him in a different room. He asked me whether I know the Hon. President of the Court of Appeal and I told him that His Lordship was my presiding justice in the Court of Appeal, Benin Division. He asked of my relationship with the PJA and I said it was cordial. He nodded his head several times in apparent satisfaction.

“He told me that the candidate for the Labour Party was ready to switch over to APC if he could help him win the appeal in the Court of Appeal and that in appreciation of the undertaking to come over to his party, he had obtained the services of three Justices of the Court of Appeal to ensure victory for Labour Party.

He said he needed one to convince the PJA to include his three Justices of the Court of Appeal in the fiveman panel to hear the ap-

peal. I told him I would not help him and that I could not in good conscience convey such request even to a Customary Court judge.

He was disappointed and asked me whether I knew the husband of the PJA. I told him I did not know the man. I bid him good night and left. Igwenyi joined me in the passage and when he drove me back to my home I told him what Dr. Onu wanted. Igwenyi apologised to me and assured me that he would not have bothered me if he had known what Dr. Onu wanted me to do.”

Giving the details of the monies allegedly recovered in his house by the DSS, Justice Ngwuta stated that in the process of searching the house, one of the DSS operatives saw the sum of N40,000 and N1,000 notes in one of the drawers and that he was excited and CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

N6.857bn

The total revenue of 2015 Government Quarterly Actually Collection from NITDEF for the 2015 Q2.

Source: Firs.gov.ng

18

The number of refugees and people in refugee-like situation assisted by UNHCR in Benin Republic at the beginning of 2010.

Source: Blatantworld.com

SATURDAY

MY LAST DISCUSSION WITH IZU WAS ON MONEY AND DEATH

–Teammate of slain footballer

Sick teenager forsaken by mum, rescued by Good Samaritan I'm offering leadership with integrity –Akeredolu

LOLO OF WAZOBIA FM

OTODO GBAME SLUM

A disaster foretold

My mum cried when I chose acting

NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

5

Buhari nominates Mamora, Tallen, 44 others as non-career ambassadors Chukwu David Abuja

P

resident Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday forwarded another fresh list of 46 non-career ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for screening and confirmation.

Among those who made

the list are former Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly and two-term senator, Dr. Olorunninmbe Mamora, former Supreme Court justice, George Oguntade and former Plateau State Deputy Governor, Pauline Tallen.

According to the Senate President, Bukola Saraki,

who read the letter during plenary, the list contained only non-career diplomats, which now brought the number of ambassadorial nominees sent to the Senate so far to 93.

Buhari had, in June, sent a list of 47 career diplomats to the Senate for confirmation.

After Saraki read the list, Senator Philip Aduda (FCT), protested the noninclusion of any nominee from the FCT on the list.

He described the situation as unfair and urged President Buhari to revisit the matter and correct the anomaly in order to give FCT a sense of belonging.

Attacks on oil installations, vandalism crash monthly allocation by N90.2bn lFG, states, councils share N420bn Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

D

espite increase in average price of crude oil at global market from $46.0 per barrel in May to $48.43 in June, sustained attacks on oil installations and pipeline vandalism have reduced total allocation available for sharing to the three tiers of government by N90.2 billion.

The picture was made clearer yesterday as the sum of N420 billion was approved for September for sharing as against N510.270 billion disbursed among the three tiers of government in August.

Militant attacks on oil installation led to a decrease in volume of crude oil export by 1.15 million barrels in the month of June alone.

Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Finance, Dr. Mahmoud Isa- Dutse, confirmed the figures and the adverse effect the attacks are hav-

ing on the oil-rich region when he presided over Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting in Abuja.

The decrease in revenue cuts across statutory revenue, Value Added Tax (VAT) and Nigeria Customs

Service’s duty.

For instance, while net statutory allocation was N315.045 billion in the previous month, it came down to N250.947 billion in September, VAT was N75.962 billion in previous month but came down to N64.265 billion in September.

On statutory allocation,

Federal Government got the highest sum of N120.351 billion, states, N61.044 billion, while local governments got N 47.062 billion.

The sum of N13.729 billion went to oil producing states as their share of 13 per cent derivation. Balance in Excess Crude Account stood at $2.454 billion.

Wife of President Muhammadu Buhari, Aisha, receiving an award from Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign & European Affairs, Didier Reynders, during the Crans Montana African Women’s Forum in Belgian capital, Brussels.

NBA tells accused judges to resign, face prosecution Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

T

he Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), in a dramatic turnaround yesterday, asked all the judges being investigated over their alleged involvement in acts of corruption to resign or proceed on compulsory retirement to enable them face prosecution to defend the allegations against them.

The association further stated that such step was not only necessary in order to protect the sanctity and integrity of judicial processes that may involve the judges concerned, but to also safeguard the public image of the judiciary as an institution.

President of the Bar, A.B Mahmud (SAN), who stated this at a valedictory court session held in honour of a retiring Justice of the Court of Appeal, Justice Sotonye Denton-West, urged the National Judicial Council (NJC), to take very urgent steps to restore the sanctity of the courts.

The Department of

State Services (DSS) had, on October 8 and 9, raided, arrested and released on bail two Supreme Court Justices – Iyang Okoro and Sylvester Ngwuta.

Others are Justices Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court Abuja, Kabir Auta of the Kano High Court, Muazu Pindiga of Gombe High Court, Mohammed Tsamiya of the Court of Appeal in Ilorin, and the Chief Judge of Enugu State, I. A. Umezulike.

Mahmud said: “We have also spoken firmly on our commitment to rid the judiciary and indeed the bar of all corrupt elements. I will like to say we remain resolute on these. In the course of the last several days, the NBA has continued to hold high-level consultations with all segments of the bar and other stakeholders and, indeed, the administration on how to address what has obviously become a major concern to all Nigerians within and outside the country.

“One of the resolutions we took was to set up a task

force to urgently review the current developments and come up with clear specific recommendations on how best to clean up the nation’s judiciary and rebuild confidence of Nigerians in our law courts.

I am expecting the report of that task force in two weeks.

“In the meantime, we have continued with our consultations and engagements. We will be coming up with bold and clear recommendations, which we will pass to the NJC and government.

“In the interim, however, particularly having regards to what appears to an on-going accusations and counter-accusations between some of the judges and other personalities or agencies, it appears to the NBA that it is extremely important that the NJC takes very urgent steps to safeguard the public image and sanctity of the courts.

“We therefore strongly recommend that, without prejudice to the innocence or otherwise of the judges involved in the

on-going investigations, they should be required to excuse themselves from further judicial functions or required to proceed on compulsory leave until their innocence is fully and completely established or until the conclusion of all judicial or disciplinary proceedings.

“We believe this will be necessary in order to protect the sanctity and integrity of judicial processes that may involve the judges concerned and safeguard the public image of the institution.”

New Telegraph recalls that the NBA had lambasted the DSS over the military style in which it used to arrest the judges.

N0.783bn The total revenue of 2015 Government Quarterly Target from NITDEF for the 2015 Q2.

Source: Firs.gov.ng

$3.25m

The capital importation of the IT Services sector of Nigeria in Q4 2014.

Source: National Bureau of Statistics

AMBASSADORIAL LIST (Career and Non-Career)

Dr. Mrs Uzoma E. Emenike Obinna C Agbugba Dr. Clifford Zirra Adamawa Salisu Umaru I.A. Paragalda Maj. Gen. Godwin G. Umo (Rtd) Akwa Ibom Inyang Udo-Inyang Christopher J.N.Okeke Anambra Okeke V. Nwunaku Nonye Udo Yusuf Tuggar Bauchi Baba Madugu Liman Munir Bayelsa Brig. Gen. Stanley Diriyai Dr. Enyantu Ifenne Benue Ndem Jane Ada D.A. Agev Mohammed Hayatuddeen Mohammed H. Hassan borno T.K. Gongulong L.A. gashagar Dr. Etubom N. E. Asuquo Cross River Martin Nyong Cobham Odeka Janet Bisong Engr. Frank Efeduma Delta Janet O. Olisa Ebonyi Mr. Jonah M. Odo Uyagwe Igbe Edo Itegboje S. Sunday Q.I. Worlu Ayodele l. Ayodeji Ekiti Olatunde Adesesan E. K. Oguntuase Maj. Gen. Chris Eze Enugu Lilian Ijeukwu onoh Alh. Suleiman Hassan Gombe Manaja Tula Isah Habu A. Gwani Ibrahim Ngozi Ukaeje Imo K.C. Nwachukwu Amin Muhammad Dalhatu Jigawa Bello Kazaure Husseini Muhammad Yaro Kaduna Deborah S. Iliya Enoch Pear Duchi Prof. D. Abdulkadir Alh. Haruna Ungogo Kano Garba Baba Rabiu Akawu Justice Isa Dodo Dr. Usman Bugaje Katsina Usman Bakori Aliyu Ibrahim Hamza Prof. Tijjani Bande Kebbi Umar Zainab Salisu Prof. Y.O. Aliu Kogi Momoh S. Omeiza Nuruddeen Mohamed Prof. Mohamed G. Yisa Kwara Kadiri Ayinla Audu Olufemi Abikoye Justice George Adesola Oguntade Senator O. Mamora Lagos Mrs. Modupe Irele Balogun Hakeem Musa Ilu Muhammad Nasarawa Inusa Ahmed Mohammed Ibeto Niger Ibrahim Isah Ade Asekun Ogun Bankole Adeoye Sonaike A. Abibat Ondo Barrister Sola Iji Adegboyega A. Ogunwusi Osun Ibidapo-Obe Oluwasegun Maj. Gen. Ashimiyu A. Olaniyi (Rtd) Oyo Ogundero Sakirat Pauline Tallen Plateau Dr. Haruna Bawa Abdulahi Orji Ngofa Rivers Justice Sylvanus Adiewere Nsofor Eric A. Bell-Gam Jamila Ahmadu-Suka Sokoto Hon. Kabiru Umar Attahiru Haliru Alh. Mustapha Jaji Taraba Rahmatu A. Dunama Goni Modu Zanna Bura Yobe Musa Saban Mamman Alh. Garba Gajam Zamfara Cpt. Abdullahi Uba Garbasi Kabir Bala FCt Adamu Onoze Shuaibu Abia

Non Career Career Non career Career Career Non Career Career Non Career Career Career Non Career Non Career Career Non Career Non Career Career Career Non Career Career Career Career Non Career Career Career Non Career Career Non Career Non Career Career Career Non career Career Career Non Career Career Non Career Career Career Career Career Non Career Career Non Career Non Career Career Non Career Non Career Career Career Non Career Non Career Career career Non Career Career Non career Career Non Career Non Career Career Career Non Career Non Career Non Career Career Non Career Career Non Career Career Non Career Career Career Non Career Non Career Career Non Career Career Non Career Non Career Non Career Non Career Career Non Career Non Career Career Non Career Career Non Career Career Non Career Non Career Career Career

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NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

N73m poll bribery: 130 INEC officials face prosecution Willie Danjuma GOMBE

T

he Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to

prosecute 130 officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over their alleged involvement in N73 million bribery.

The money was said to

have been used to bribe the officials during the 2015 general elections in Gombe, Adamawa and Taraba states.

The N73 million has already been recovered

How I emerged as VP, by Osinbajo Anule Emmanuel Abuja

V

ice-President Yemi Osinbajo has broken the silence on the controversy surrounding his emergence as running mate to President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2015 presidential election.

The vice president confirmed Wednesday night that he was recommended to the position by someone in high place whose name he however did not disclose.

Osinbajo spoke at the presidential dinner organised in honour of over 200 graduates and beneficiaries of the Presidential

Amnesty Programme at the Old Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

But Osinbajo, while speaking at the dinner, said that “somebody somewhere has to give a helping hand, whether to be a vice president or to be an aircraft pilot or to be an engineer.”

He told the gathering: “I was in a group of young men and women and one of them asked the question how did I become vice president, I was never a politician or anything like that.

“So I tried to explain; it is quite simple that someone somewhere has to recommend you. Somebody somewhere has to give you a helping hand.

Customs dismiss 29 senior officers CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

some of the indicted officers engaged in the release of export prohibitions, fraudulent sale of seized items, use of fake certificates and bribery to secure auctioned goods.

Four of the officers who got the hammer were of the rank of deputy-comptroller of Customs, while five were assistant comptrollers.

Others were seven chief superintendents of Customs and four superintendents, among others.

According to the spokesman of NCS, Wale Adeniyi, a deputy comptroller, 10 other officers were retired from service, while the appointment of one was terminated.

He added that four officers were given written warnings to be of better conduct while another four officers, who were investigated and tried for some offences, were exonerated.

Just last week, 17 junior officers were dismissed from service for offences like bribery, drug addiction, use of fake certificates and absence from duty.

The spokesman stressed that the ComptrollerGeneral of Customs, Col. Hammed Ali (rtd), had made it clear upon his assumption of duties that the service would not compromise on corruption and indiscipline among the officers.

Adeniyi noted that the structure and process for investigation of offences

was strengthened to handle cases reported promptly and professionally.

He stressed that the process leading to the actions taken on the officers was painstaking in line with the Public Service Rules (PSR).

According to him, all the officers were served with queries indicating offences committed, before they made appearances before the Special Investigation Committee.

He said: “The committee’s recommendation was discussed and approved by the Customs Management.

The recommendation was thereafter referred to the Presidency for ratification, in the absence of a substantive Board for the Nigeria Customs Service.

All the officers affected in the exercise have been communicated accordingly.

“The comptroller-general warned officers that punitive sanctions will continue to be used to discipline officers who refuse to embrace change.

“Officers affected in this exercise were investigated for their involvement in improper examination and release of containers without proper documentation and payment of duties, illegal release of goods in advance before the arrival of vessels, collection of bribe to release prohibited items, release of export prohibitions, fraudulent sale of seized items, use of fake certificates and bribery to secure auctioned goods.”

“Whether to be a vice president or to be an aircraft pilot or to be an engineer, somebody somewhere has to give you an opportunity and I think that all of you that are here today are the beneficiaries of the opportunities that you have somehow received."

from the INEC staff.

Head of operation, Gombe zonal office of EFCC, Aminu Ado Aliyu, said the 130 INEC officials allegedly collected bribes to compromise the elections.

A breakdown of the affected INEC staff shows that Gombe State has 26 staff involved; Adamawa has 86 staff while Taraba has 18.

Aliyu, who spoke yesterday in Gombe while reviewing the activities of the Commission in the past 10 months, stated that investigations have been concluded on the mat-

ter and that the accused would be charged to court soon.

The commission revealed that it has recovered N183,590,000 from politicians within the zone as part of funds illegally sourced and used in prosecuting 2015 general elections.

According to him, “we received and treated 143 petitions, while 52 cases are still in court.

“We do not concern ourselves with only ridding the society of economic and financial crimes by sending criminals to jail, but we also prevent the

commission of crimes by apprehending fraudsters before they commit havoc by telling the public about their presence and method of operation through advocacy and public enlightenment releases.”

$1.65m

The capital importation of the IT Services sector of Nigeria in Q3 2014.

Source: National Bureau of Statistics

N2.038trn

The total value of payment channels made by NIP of Nigeria in April 2015.

Source: National Bureau of Statistics

L-R: Head, Banking Products, FirstBank, Adebimpe Ihekuna; Deputy Managing Director, Gbenga Shobo; General Manager, Uber West Africa, Ebi Atawodi and Head, Media and External Relations, FirstBank, Babatunde Lasaki, at the introduction of the FirstBank/ Uber vehicle finance partnership in Lagos…on Tuesday

Amaechi begged me to cancel Fayose’s election –Justice Ngwuta CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

called their lead who saw the money and said: “This is not the kind of money we came to pick. They left the N40,000.”

He denied allegation that huge sums were recovered from his house.

The apex court justice said he was surprised where the DSS got the money.

“In the next bedroom I lay on the bed out of sight of the wardrobe from which they brought some boxes and brief cases and travelling bags. All the bags and briefcases and travelling bags except one contained only magazines, papers and some old clothing. Some were empty. Only one small bag was locked with a padlock and this was the only bag that contained money… None of the bags were neither opened in my presence nor in the presence of my housemaid who was the only person in the house with me at all material times.

“After many hours, they came down to the sitting room downstairs and told me they were going to bring down the bags. I was speechless when I saw them bringing out huge bundles of different currencies from the bags that had contained only magazine papers and old clothes and some were empty. Some were contained in multi-coloured

plastic bags, which they tore and discarded. They put the money in different bags and briefcases and then proceeded to count a large amount of N5, N10, N20 and N50 notes, which was the change I returned each time I went to shop over the years. They kept waking me up to ask how I came about the small denomination of naira notes.

No one asked me any question about the huge sums of money they put in the bags…

“The only bag that contained money was the small bag I locked with a padlock, which I unlocked when ordered to do so. The bag contained the sum of $25,000, £10 and a brown envelope containing the sum of N710,000, which was a monthly allowance paid to me for September 2016. In the brief case, which I carry to my office daily, I had the sum of N300,000 and some loose change. The above are the only sums of money taken from me along with my phones, papers and other household items.

“I do not know how they came about the huge sums of money I saw for the first time in my parlour on the early hours of Saturday, 8th October, 2016. The various sums of money alleged to have been recovered from me were said to be in the social media in the early

hours of Saturday, 8thOctober, 2016, when the invaders were yet to complete their search.” he stated.

Meanwhile, Amaechi has denied the allegation against him. He said he never made attempt to influence judgement of the court in respect of the governorship appeal in Ekiti.

His words: “The Hon. Justice Ngwuta’s allegation as it concerns Amaechi is nothing but pure fiction, a dubious diversionary tale concocted to muddle the very serious issues of his arrest and investigation by the DSS. “For emphasis, we want to state categorically that Amaechi did not and has never tried to lobby, induce or make the Hon. Justice Ngwuta to influence the outcome of any matter before the Supreme Court or any other court. The Hon. Justice Ngwuta’s narrative as it concerns Amaechi is simply not true, an unadulterated fallacy designed to deceive and distract from the real issues of DSS investigation of acts of corruption against him.

“It’s indeed very sad and most unfortunate that Justice Ngwuta had decided to drag the name of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), into his fabricated allegations. Again, We make bold to state that Amaechi did not and has never lobbied, approached or at-

tempted to make the CJN or any other justice of the apex court to influence the Supreme Court judgement on the Rivers State and Ekiti State governorship elections petition appeals or any other matter before the apex court or any other court.”

The minister stated that the allegation against him was politically motivated.

“Within a space of 48 hours, we have observed a carefully planned and coordinated political attempt to drag Amaechi into the DSS arrest and investigation of judges in Nigeria. The aim of the plot is two-fold: To smear and politically destroy the image and reputation of Amaechi and, deceitfully portray him as the person behind the arrest of judges. This is indeed most ridiculous and callous.

“We are aware of a welltimed, heavily funded plot to “take out” Amaechi politically and it appears that Justice Ngwuta and Justice Inyang Okoro of the Supreme Court, have wittingly or unwittingly been conscripted into this devious politics of “destroy Amaechi by all means,” Amaechi said.

The minister said he “is talking with his lawyers and will explore lawful channels to seek redress for this gross defamation against his character and person.”

NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

7

Militancy: Avengers pull out of dialogue

Onwuka Nzeshi ABUJA

T

he Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) yesterday dissociated itself from the proposed dialogue between the Federal Government and some prominent politicians and traditional rulers from the Niger Delta.

The militant group, which claimed responsibility for most of the bombings of oil and gas facilities in the region earlier in the year, said it had lost confidence in the process because the Federal Government failed to build a broad based dialogue group, but has rather chosen to deal with those it referred to as “vultures and dialogue contractors” in the region.

President Muhammadu Buhari had, last week, invited the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PNDF), a group promoted by Chief Edwin Clark and some other Niger Delta leaders, to a meeting in Abuja.

The meeting, New Telegraph learnt, was meant to set the template for an acceptable dialogue with the stakeholders and representatives of militant groups.

However, NDA has accused the Federal Government of adopting a nonchalant attitude towards the dialogue option, warning that holding a dialogue with personalities who do not represent the various stakeholders and groups in the oil-rich region would be counter-productive.

The group had, in August, declared a ceasefire following appeals from various quarters that the agitation should be suspended to explore avenues to resolve the issues through dialogue.

Apparently disenchanted by the long wait without commensurate action from government, the NDA yesterday issued a statement warning that there was danger ahead unless government retraced its steps.

The statement, signed by one Col. Rightman Hudson Opukurowari, accused the Federal Government of not only being selective in its choice of persons to dialogue with, but preferring to deal with those who have made a business of dialogue on Niger Delta issues.

“The Federal Government, under President Muhammadu Buhari, has chosen to be non-chalant to the dialogue and have decided to invite only their political friends in the likes of Edwin Clark, King Diete Spiff and others for dinner in the name of dialogue on the 29th of

October.

“Government is trying to avoid a holistic approach to addressing the real issues and solving them, but rather, have decided to engage these “Niger Delta vultures” sitting in Abuja with their sponsors, taking credit for our genuine agitations.

“We have watched and observed that with the body language of the president and the composition of the so-called dialogue group, no meaningful solution will be preferred unless government decide to make a U-turn and invite every concerned and genuine group for the purpose of dialogue and peaceful resolutions.

“We have warned that any attempt for us to resume hostilities will be more brutal than before until we enter the promised land,” the group said.

If the Federal Government was serious and ready for any real negotiation for a lasting peace and solutions in the Niger Delta, NDA said, the dialogue must not involve certain personalities who had always positioned themselves as representing Niger Delta when indeed they do not have a hold on the real actors in the swamps and creeks.

The group, in the statement made available to New Telegraph listed personalities such as the Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Matters, Brig-Gen. Paul Boro (rtd), Special Adviser on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Ita Enang, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Ikachukwu, Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State and Chief Timipre Sylva, a former Governor of Bayelsa State, as persons they would want excused from the dialogue.

The NDA said that the militants involved in the struggle do not have confidence in these men because, according to them, most of them have been on the corridors of powers and are beneficiaries of the perennial crisis in the region and would not want it to end soon.

“We expect the Federal Government, with all her inexhaustible wisdom, make these Niger Delta leaders lead them to these boys in the creeks they are representing. That should be the first prerequisite

change OF NAME

Osasona

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Eyitemi Violet Yonwuren now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Eyitemi Violet Osasona. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

of their qualification to dialogue on behalf of the boys in the creeks. They don’t represent us.

“Secondly, they should give government a satisfactory road map for a

genuine dialogue representing all oil producing communities in Nigeria that may yield a permanent solution to such repetition of restiveness in the region. We are concerned

Ochemuta

Mohammed

ported that the NDA was disturbed that its team of negotiators, led by Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, had been sidelined by the Federal Government.

CONFIRMATION/change OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as Victoria Erubami now wish to be known and addressed asVictoria Ochemuta. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Onike

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Taiwo Oluwakemi Abosede now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Onike Oluwakemi Abosede. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

Adegbe

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Sunday Blessing Ene now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adegbe Blessing Ene. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note.

Egbumnu

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Nkiru Evangeline Nwabuisi now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Nkiru Evangeline Egbumnu. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

Ukpai

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Charis Oyadode Christopher, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Charis Oyadode Christopher Ukpai. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. The general public please take note.

Ogunbodede

that these same persons invited have become Federal Government contractors in dialogue matters,” the statement read in parts.

A few days ago, New Telegraph exclusively re-

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NYSC and the general public should please take note.

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Igweshi

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Ikenna

I, formerly known and addressed as Ugwuke Ikenna Joseph now wish to be known and addressed as Ikenna Joseph. All former documents remain valid. First bank Plc and the general public should please take note.

Oyegoke

I am the father of Miss Oluwabunmi Elizabeth Kola-Oyegoke who was formerly known and called Miss Oluwabunmi Elizabeth Oyegoke.

That henceforth, she should be known, called and addressed as Miss Kola-Oyegoke, Oluwabunmi Elizabeth. All former documents remain valid and this affidavit is now required for record and official purposes.

Shell

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PUBLIC NOTICE

THE ANCHOR OF HIS PRESENCE AND GLORY MINISTRY

Ogodo

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Emma

Ikya

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Innocent

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This is to notify the general public that the names Uburu Chinenyenwa Bridget and Uburu Chinenye Bridget refer to one and the same person. Henceforth, I wish to be known and addressed as Uburu Chinenye Bridget. All former documents remain valid. Ecobank Plc, Access bank Plc and the general public please take note.

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Kola-Oyegoke

Ikpinyang

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First bank Plc and the general public should please take note.

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Adeogun

Alabi

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General public, please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

DOSALAM FOUNDATION

Notice is hereby given to the general public that the above named organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under part "C" of the companies and allied matter act no.1 of 1990.

Notice is hereby given to the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under part "C" of the companies and allied matter act no.1 of 1990.

The Trustees are: 1. Apostle Anthony Kehinde Omagbemi - General Overseer 2. Mrs Betty Omon Egbaran - Secretary 3. Mrs Abosede Remi Omagbemi 4. Evangelist Mrs Oladipo Olorunsomo Rhoda 5. Rev Olaoye Ebenezer Olasupo 6. Pastor Samuel Olaniran Adeyeye 7. Mr Imueze Maxwell Egbaran

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Salami Yakubu Adedoyin 2. Giwa Morufu Oladele 3. Abdulgafar Rofiat Oladipupo 4. Salami Malcolm Ayomide

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To embark on Evangelistic Missions and Programmes throughout Nigeria and in any part of the world with a view to win souls for the Lord Jesus Christ and preparing men for His (Jesus) second coming (Mark 16:15-16; Matt. 28:18-20; Isaiah 11:1-3).

2. To plant Churches and engage in Christian Missionary activities.

3. To mobilize funds for the advancement of Christianity.

4. To raise men and women for Christ for the purpose of loosing those that are in bondage of sin and satan (Isaiah 61:1; Luke 13:15-16; Mark 5:1-8).

5. To train believers in the Bible-based Christian life.

6. To Preach the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To help the less privileged people in our society 2. To foster unity, love and create avenue for skill acquisition among our youth and society at large.

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

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

PUBLIC NOTICE

GOD'S REAL TIME PROPHETIC INTERNATIONAL MINISTRY

Notice is hereby given to the general public that the above named organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under part "C" of the companies and allied matter act no.1 of 1990.

The Trustees are: 1. Prophet Fakunle Adekunle Osuolale - Chairman 2. Mrs. Oyediji Kehinde Olufunke - Secretary 3. Mr. Aiyeguro Marcos Olabamiji 4. Mr. Dada Emmanuel Oluwasesan AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To embark on Evangelistic Missions and Programmes throughout Nigeria and in any part of the world with a view to win souls for the Lord Jesus Christ and preparing men for His (Jesus) second coming (Mark 16:15-16; Matt. 28:18-20; Isaiah 11:1-3).

2. To plant Churches and engage in Christian Missionary activities.

3. To mobilize funds for the advancement of Christianity.

4. To raise men and women for Christ for the purpose of loosing those that are in bondage of sin and satan (Isaiah 61:1; Luke 13:15-16; Mark 5:1-8).

5. To train believers in the Bible-based Christian life.

6. To co-operate and associate with other organizations having similar objectives.

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

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

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

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

PUBLIC NOTICE The general public is hereby notified that OLADAPO ABUDU FOUNDATION has applied to be registered under part 'C' of the Company and Allied Matters Act 2004 The Trustees are: 1. Mr. Mufutau Oladapo Abudu 2. Mrs. Taiwo Bilau Abudu 3. Mrs. Aminat Olufunke Haruna (Nee Abudu) 4. Mr. Saheed Olumide Abudu AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To provide funding, scholarships, grants to students in all stages of education, pre nursery, nursery, primary, secondary up to the university level.

2. To provide financial assistance in research for post- graduate students in Nigeria and overseas.

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

SIGNED:

M.O. ABUDU TRUSTEE

8

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

METRO Mimiko’s convoy commander assassinated

ABIODUN BELLO

abiodun.bello@newtelegraphonline.com 08023938212

...CRIME, CITY WATCH, COURTS

Babatope Okeowo Akure

A

The late Oyewole

rmed men suspected to be robbers have shot and killed the Commander in charge of convoy of the Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Idowu Oyewole.

Forty-five-year-old Oyewole, a father of three, was killed in his house at Sango area on Akure-Owo Road, Akure, the state capital, by a three-man gang.

This development came after some suspected armed robbers attacked Okeogba Street in Akure and killed a motor dealer, Mr. Clement Olokose and a Pastor of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Niyi Olowe.

Olokose and Olowe were also killed by a three-man gang.

The killing of Oyewole, whose body was discovered in the early hours of yesterday, had thrown the residents, his colleagues in the police and family members into mourning. The late officer was described as a disciplined and an easy going man.

Narrating the incident to journalists at Oyewole’s residence in Akure, his son, Dare, said a neighbour’s son came to their house around 7:30p.m. when his father was eating and told him that some hoodlums had entered their house.

Dare said his father left his food on the table, took his service pistol and followed the neighbour’s son to the house opposite theirs in order to dislodge the suspected hoodlums.

He said the armed robbers saw his father from distance and shot at him.

According to him, Oyewole tried to exchange fire with the robbers but he became weak and ran away from the scene.

Residents of the area, who corroborated Dare’s view, said the officer sustained injury and ran away.

A neighbour, who did not want her name in print, said Oyewole ran to his house and told his family members to lock the door because armed robbers were on the street. She said they could not locate where the officer was until the morning when they saw his body lying on the ground.

She said it was likely

that the deceased was rushing to the nearby hospital and fell before he could get there as a result of the gunshot.

A source in the neighbourhood said after attacking the police officer, the robbers went to his house and took hostage his fouryear-old boy, Afolabi, who was sleeping in his mother’s shop outside the house.

“They ordered Oyewole’s wife to open the door or they would kill the boy.

After waiting at the door and moving round the compound with the boy for about 30 minutes without gaining access into the house, the hoodlums hit the boy’s head with a machete. They left the boy in the pool of his blood. The boy sustained injury on the head,” the source added.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Femi Joseph, who confirmed the killing of the officer attached to the Mobile Unit of the Force, said investigation had commenced into the incident.

Joseph described late Oyewole as a disciplined and hard-working officer.

“He was a disciplined officer. Our hearts are heavy,” the PPRO said.

City Briefs

Lady kidnapped in Lagos, found in Port Harcourt Lagos plans to manage waste with tricycles She said: “Our God are thanking God for her Camillus Nnaji

A

24-year-old businesswoman, Rosemary Michael, who was reportedly kidnapped at KetuMile 12 area of Lagos has been found in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Michael had on Friday left her home in Ebute-Meta, Lagos to buy coconut oil at Ketu-Mile 12 market, but did not return home.

The family did not see her for five days until a call came from a Good Samaritan in Port Harcourt.

Her elder sister, Helen Michael, said that when upon found, Rosemary “was blank, unable to understand where she was and how she got there”.

is the Super Hero in her discovery. With some pastors, we had engaged in intensive prayers for her return. The following morning, a Good Samaritan in Port Harcourt called us that a certain lady who gave her our telephone number, was in Port Harcourt and could not remember how and what brought her there.”

Helen said since she could not find work after her graduation from the Benue State University, Makurdi, Rosemary started selling coconut oil.

“She had gone to the market on Friday evening to buy the commodity but did not return. We

return because she was hypnotised and taken to Port Harcourt where she had not gone to before. God has neutralised their evil plan for her.

When we spoke with her on the phone she could not remember anything that happened, except that she was hurled into a bus.

“She had wandered from place to place seeking help, but nobody believed her that she was kidnapped. People were afraid that she was a setup and could not direct her to the police station.

It was the man that called us, that rendered help,” Helen added.

Muritala Ayinla

L

agos State government yesterday said that plans were on to introduce tricycles to manage waste in order to reach every nooks and cranny of the state.

The Commissioner for the Environment, Dr. Babatunde Adejare, said this at the launch of Ikeja Clean-up Exercise and purpose-built tricycles for waste disposal by Ikeja Local Government.

Adejare said government was planning to invest heavily in the procurement of tricycles.

The commissioner said that the tricycles

would be able to navigate hard-to-reach areas, which, according to him, will help in no small measure to assist waste disposal in the state.

He said: “When we put environment first, development endures because we cannot lay claim to economic prosperity in the face of environmental insecurities.”

The commissioner urged residents to take good care of the environment, because God did not create the environment to be degraded and it is human efforts that have put it in the current worrisome state.

Adejare also said that

government had embarked on ‘Clean Lagos’ exercise across the five divisions of the state.

This initiative, according to him, will help reduce environmental degradation.

The commissioner urged Lagosians to join the crusade to attain a cleaner, healthier, functional and sustainable environment, capable of promoting economic growth and well-being of the entire citizenry.

He said: ‘We do not have another planet, this earth is our earth, we must do everything within our capacities to ensure it is safe for us and posterity.

METRO

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Kidnap threat: Suspect asks businesswoman for N37m

Ojukwu’s chef held for N15m jewellery theft Juliana Francis

P

Joshua

Taiwo Jimoh

P

olice have arrested a suspected kidnapper, Abiodun Joshua, for allegedly trying to abduct a businesswoman, Mrs. Oseni Omolewa, at Igbosere area of Lagos Island.

The businesswoman was rescued by police detectives attached to Lion Building Police Division from the suspected kidnap syndicate which specialised in threatening members of the public with text message of kidnap, with the aim to extort them.

Luck, according to the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Dolapo Badmos, ran out on Joshua after he demanded N37 million from the woman to prevent her from being kidnapped.

Badmos said on October 1, about 11:20p.m., the victim, who resides on Igbosere Road, Lagos Island, reported at Lion Building Division that she had been receiving telephone calls from someone who claimed to be a kidnapper.

She said: “The caller told her to deposit N37 million into an account number to prevent her from being kidnapped and her children.”

olice detectives in Lagos have arrested a man, who claimed to be the former chef of the late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu.

The suspect, Joseph Agbeh, said he worked for Ojukwu and Bianca as chef in 1998, but left because, Ojukwu was too strict and harsh.

“He used to slash salaries as disciplinary measures. I was discouraged,” Agbeh said.

The suspect also described himself as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and founder of Jokas Football Academy, based in Calabar, Cross Rivers State.

The academy promised to train and take young hopeful footballers overseas to fix them in clubs.

Agbeh, who claimed to have secured the chef job through the help of Ojukwu’s friend, Mr. Innocent Morris, was accused of poisoning the food of his present boss in order to steal jewellery worth N15 million.

According to detectives, Agbeh went up to his master’s bedroom after the man became unconscious and was rushed to the hospital.

The chef ransacked his employer’s room and carted

Foreigners, Nigerians frustrating drug trial –NDLEA

Suspects inside the lab

Juliana Francis

N

ational Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has accused four Mexicans and five Nigerians standing trial for illegal running of a super methamphetamine production laboratory in Asaba, Delta State of deliberately frustrating trial through delay tactics.

The NDLEA Chairman, Col. Muhammad Abdallah (rtd), who said this, directed the prosecuting team to be resilient and steadfast in ensuring victory at the end of the day.

The defendants are Anthony Umolu aka Onwa Obosi, Chief Chibi Aruh, Izuchukwu Anieto, William Agusi and Augustine Umolu.

Others are Cervantes Bruno, Rivas Pasiano, Castillo Cristobal and Partida Pedro.

They are facing a five-count charge of conspiracy to form and operate a Drug Trafficking Organisation (DTO) to process and export metham-

9

phetamine.

They have equally been charged for illegal extraction of ephedrine, preparation of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of 1.5kg of methamphetamine, a drug similar to cocaine, heroin, LSD contrary to NDLEA Act, Cap N30 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

The super laboratory for the illicit production of methamphetamine was detected by NDLEA in Asaba, Delta State. This super methamphetamine laboratory, similar to the ones found in Mexico, is the first to be discovered in the country. The laboratory has a capacity of producing between 3,000kg and 4,000kg of methamphetamine per production cycle.

At the resumed sitting yesterday, six of nine new defence counsel failed to show up in court.

All nine defendants changed their first counsel, Chief Benson Ndakara without any reason and prior notice at the last sitting on October 10. On that day, B. O. Okoji appeared with Blackman for the first and ninth defendant.

D. O. Oche appeared for the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh defendant.

Also, G. O Onyeka announced his appearance for the second defendant while G.A.I. Mowah and O.G. Okoloh appeared for the third and eighth defendant.

away the jewellery.

This drama unfolded in the home while Agbeh’s employer was overseas. The kids and housemaid were in other wings of the house and unaware that Agbeh had a sinister motive when he left his kitchen duties and went upstairs, ostensibly to sweep his “Oga’s room.” A duty he had never performed until that fateful day.

He had only worked three days when he carried out the operation.

He would later sell the jewellery at Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos State for N1 million. Police and Agbeh described his boss as ‘very rich.’

It took police over two weeks to be able to track and arrest him.

Preliminary investigations showed that he used fake documents to secure the chef job in the home of the rich man.

Also, details he gave to the employment agency, where he registered as someone seeking the job of a chef and steward, were also fake.

While admitting stealing the jewellery, Agbeh denied poisoning the man.

Police are also speculating that maybe he committed a crime while working with Ojukwu and was sacked.

Agbeh

The suspect said: “Ojukwu didn’t sack me. I sacked myself ! I didn’t commit any crime in Ojukwu’s house. You can call Bianca and ask her. I didn’t poison my present boss. If I poisoned him, may I not get out of this police problem!

In fact, he had not tasted

anything I cooked on that day before he started feeling feverish. He drove himself to the hospital. I later prepared food for him, which was taken to the hospital. When he didn’t return that day, I carried out the operation. I stole the jewellery.”

Robbers spray pepper in motorcyclist’s eyes

Ojelade and Lambo

Kunle Olayeni Abeokuta

P

olice have arrested two suspected armed robbers who specialised in snatching

motorcycles at gunpoint.

The suspects, Moses Ojelade and Wasiu Lambo, were arrested last Saturday on OfadaMowe Road, Ogun State.

It was learnt that the sus-

pects, who were former convicts, had stopped Mr. David Sunday, a motorcyclist, and pretended to be genuine passengers.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Abimbola Oyeyemi, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued in Abeokuta.

Oyeyemi, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, explained that the suspects had boarded the motorcycle and, along the road, they sprayed grinded dry pepper in the face of the motorcyclist and dispossessed him of his motorcycle.

He said: “The victim raised the alarm and policemen attached to Owode-Egba Division who are on routine patrol led by their Divisional Police Officer, Sheu Alao, raced to the scene and were able to arrest one of the suspects, Moses Ojelade.

“His arrest led to the arrest of his accomplice, Wasiu Lambo.”

The police spokesman said investigation into the matter had revealed that the suspects recently came out of prison.

It was learnt that the duo had earlier robbed and killed Mr. Oroke Chukwuma on October 6 at Ofada area.

Oyeyemi, however, said the state Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Iliyasu, had ordered the transfer of the suspects to the Federal Special AntiRobbery Squad (FSARS) for discrete investigation.

10

News|NATIONAL

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Senate passes NEDC bill, approves 3% federal VAT for 10 years lLagos senators kick Chukwu David Abuja

T

he Senate yesterday passed the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) Bill which empowers the Federal Government to set up a commission to rehabilitate the Boko Haram dev-

astated North-East region.

Strangely and interestingly, the Senate included Kano and Plateau States in the list of states to benefit from the commission’s funds for rebuilding the region, even though they are located in North-West and North-Central geopolitical zones respectively.

The decision to include

Kano and Plateau in the rebuilding plan followed a protest by Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano Central) that the two states also received a series of terrorist attacks.

The Senate, in passing the NEDC bill, approved the allocation of 3per cent of the country’s Value Added Tax (VAT) to the North East Development Commission (NEDC) for a period of ten years.

The Senate also resolved the controversy surrounding the location of the headquarters of the commission, by approving that it should be sited in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.

However, the the three senators representing Lagos State, kicked against the approval of the 3 per centVAT for the North-East Development Commission for 10 years, saying that

President Muhammadu Buhari with Dr. Bola Kuforiji Olubi , during her visit in Abuja…yesterday

their earlier request for one per cent VAT for Lagos was rejected by the same chamber.

It will be recalled that Senator Oluremi Tinubu (APC, Lagos central), had sponsored a bill, entitled, “A bill for an act to make provisions for federal grants to Lagos State in recognition of its strategic socio-economic significance and other connected purposes”.

Unfortunately, when the bill was debated for second reading a fortnight ago, it was vehemently opposed by some senators, who argued that it would amount to giving undue advantage to Lagos over other states, resulting in the bill being killed.

But after the approval for the North-East, the Lagos senators renewed its appeal, urging the Sen-

Why Obasanjo fell out with me, by Gbenga Daniel Ndubuisi Ugah

A Airbus opens IVF can’t raise risk for breast cancer –Study new operational Biodun Oyeleye treated with these IVF not subject them to an regimens.” A fertility increased risk of breast office in Nigeria any women who expert, according to the cancer,” said Dr. Avner Wole Shadare

A

ircraft giant, Airbus has opened an operational office in Nigeria.

This move would signpost confidence in the government’s agenda for the aviation industry in Nigeria.

This also shows that the vision of the Muhammadu Buhari administration for the Aviation sector has continued to attract global industry players into the country with the desire to be part of the expected reforms and developments, the latest being the delegation from industry giant, the Airbus Group of France.

Leading the delegation on a visit to the Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika in his office, the Ambassador of France in Nigeria, Denys Gauer said they were in the Ministry to acquaint themselves and identify with the new government’s vision and plans for the Aviation sector, as presented by the Minister to various industry stakeholders both in the country and at the international level.

He also informed the Minister of the intention of one of the largest aircraft manufacturers and leasers in the world, the Airbus Group to open an operational office in Nigeria.

M

face the option of submitting to in vitro fertilization (IVF) to boost their odds of having a baby often express fears that the procedure could lead to their developing breast cancer.

But a recent study by some Dutch researchers says there is no need for such fears as such women are not at any increased risk of breast cancer.

Their study of more than 25,000 women, according to a report in HealthDay, found no “significant increase in the long-term risk of breast cancer among women

magazine, believes the findings will ease patients’ concerns.

Result of the study, conducted by Dr. Avner Hershlag, head of Center for Human Reproduction, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, New York and Stephanie Bernik, chief of surgical oncology, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City, was released in the July edition of Journal of the American Medical Association.

Excerpt from the report reads: “As the number of women undergoing IVF continues to increase, it’s reassuring that we do

Sunday Ojeme

exact amount.

He explained that the company’s group managing director was not available to clear the matter.

His explanation was, however, ignored by the enforcement team, which ordered the workers to vacate the office building.

In Enugu, the office of Afri-Hub, an information communication technology firm, situated at the Institute of Management and Technology, was similarly shut over a debt of N2.54 million.

The agency’s enforcement team led by Ruth Mandeun said the exercise was not a witch-hunt, but

Hershlag, chief of the Center for Human Reproduction at North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, N.Y. According to the Dutch research team, prior data has hinted that that certain hormones, including estrogens and progestogens, can affect breast cancer risk.

IVF procedures do cause levels of certain of these hormones to drop temporarily, while others may surge. For this reason, experts have speculated that IVF could affect women’s risk for breast cancer.

former governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, yesterday revealed the grouse which led to his rift with former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo since 2011.

Speaking on a radio programme, Podium, on Sweet FM, Abeokuta, Daniel said the choices of candidates to contest under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) flag in the state in 2011 ignited what appeared like a conflict between him and the former president.

He said: “I opined (during the 2011 election) that we should use one stone to kill two birds by picking a Muslim from Ogun West, to assuage the people of Ogun West who

T

he move by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to put an end to excessive tax liabilities by corporate bodies across the country continued yesterday as it grounded business activities in some companies in Lagos, Enugu and Abuja over tax debts totalling N368.11 million.

In Yaba, Lagos, the office of Courteville Business Solutions Plc. was shut over a tax debt of over N313 million.

A company official told the FIRS team that he was aware of the company’s debt but not sure of the

have continuously complained that they cannot be governor and the Muslim community who were also agitating at that time.

“That I felt was the winning formula then.

Obasanjo disagreed insisting that religious factor should not be an important issue for that position at that time.

“It was a principled disagreement. Some extraneous factors also created a communication gap which did not help matters.”

The former governor further noted that the development led to what appeared like a face-off between him and the former president, who also hails from the state.

Daniel said: “I have told you earlier that I am a man of principles.”

Group sues SERAP for accusing Jonathan’s wife of stealing Akeem Nafiu

FIRS shuts more firms over N368m tax evasion A to recover tax debts.

In Abuja, two engineering firms, HeriProm Engineering Limited and De-Tither International Limited, were also shut at Apo. While HeriProm Engineering was sealed for owing N32.3 million, De-Tither International has a tax liability of N20.2 million, made up of income tax, withholding tax and education tax from 2008 to 2013.

Prior to the latest enforcement by the agency, it had earlier shut some other firms in Lagos, Ibadan and Port Harcourt, over failure to pay about N1.9 billion in tax.

ate to accommodate Lagos State by revisiting and passing the bill into law.

The bill among others, requested the Senate to approve one per cent VAT of the Federal revenue to Lagos as a former federal capital of Nigeria.

In a joint press briefing yesterday shortly after plenary, Senators Gbenga Ashafa (APC Lagos East and Adeola Olamilekan (APC Lagos West) said it was wrong for the Senate to approve 3 per cent for the North East Development Commission without considering Lagos.

The lawmakers who hinted that the bill would be reintroduced in the Senate, said that “what is good for the goose is also good for the gander”, wondering why the senate rejected the bill.

group, Union of Niger Delta Youth Organization for Equity, Justice and Good Governance has dragged the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) to court over alleged “campaign of calumny against Mrs Patience Jonathan, wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

In the suit filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos, the group suing for themselves and on behalf of the former first lady accused SERAP of using online, print and electronic media to publish unfounded and malicious allegations that Mrs Jonathan should be prosecuted for stealing

$15million.

The former first lady has laid claim to the money which had been a subject of litigation.

In a suit marked, FHC/L/CS/1349/2016, the plaintiff is seeking an order of interim injunction restraining SERAP from taking any further steps in further vilification, condemnation and conviction of Mrs Jonathan, in all public media and in the use of the judicial process for that purpose by the extremely publicised pursuit of any application for the coercion of the Attorney-General of the Federation to prosecute her for owning legitimate private property, pending the hearing and determination of the originating summons.

11

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ondo decides AD, PDP allege plot to attack members

Politics

Ondo guber APC inaugurates reconciliation committees

12 12

Akuma: EFCC pursuing jankara judgement against Kalu The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission ( EFCC) recently sought to transfer its case of alleged corruption against former governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, from the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court to Lagos. In this interview, Chief Solo Akuma, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and counsel to Slok Holdings Nigeria Limited, gives his perspective on the matter. He tells Onwuka Nzeshi that the anti- corruption agency was engaging in “forum shopping” to obtain a predetermined judgement on the matter. Excerpts: The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently wrote a letter to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court seeking to transfer the case against Dr Orji Uzor Kalu from the Court 5 in Abuja to Lagos. What is your interpretation of this move?

This is very strange. It has never happened in the annals of administration of criminal justice in this country. What they are trying to do is what we call forum shopping; trying to find a venue where they can emasculate the judge who is handling a matter. Now in this particular case, the last time we were in court was in September 27 and plea was taken that day. EFCC was represented by Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) and all the other counsels to the defendants were present in court and after the plea and granting of bail, the matter was adjourned to December 6, 7 and 8 for accelerated hearing of the matter.

So when we heard that EFCC has done a letter to the CHief Judge of the Federal High Court, we felt that something wrong was being done.

The counsel to the defendants were not copied with this letter.

FELIX NWANERI

GROUP PoLITICAL EDITOR nwanerif@newtelegraphonline.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

They did not bring any motion on notice to transfer this case to any other division of the Federal High Court. So that shows that they want to do what the Yoruba people call “jankara” practice, which is purely an illegal way of doing things.

If they have any reason for transfer, why wouldn’t they wait until we come to court on December 6 where all the parties will be present and now they will make the application and we will respond to it?

Is it that they are uncomfortable with the judge handling the case now or what?

I wouldn’t suspect that they are uncomfortable with the present judge if they want law to be administered. But I think that they want to go to a kangaroo judge. That is what they are looking for because there are people that they have now stationed to do their bidding and that is why we are not comfortable with the application.

This move which you called forum shopping is coming barely one week after the Nigerian judiciary experienced an unprecedented clamp down on some senior judges, do you see any link between these actions?

This is what they intended to achieve. They want a situation where they go to any place, the judge will be so timid to do the right thing and whatever either the EFCC or any of its officials would say, the judge will think that that is the right thing. The judges will not be allowed to use their knowledge of the law and their discretion to handle cases.

Have you written to the judge to coun-

Akuma

They want a situation where... the judge will be so timid to do the right thing

ter the letter sent to him by the EFCC? Well, His Excellency ( Kalu) has done a letter to that effect and we have also written to the EFCC and copied the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court. The judge handling this matter has nothing to do with this issue of transfer for now. The application the EFCC did was to the Chief Judge and they must come out to tell us why they want the matter to be transferred. This is a matter we started in 2007; we raised the issue of jurisdiction to the effect that Abuja was not the place where the alleged crime was committed but they said they must do it in Abuja.

We fought it up to the Supreme Court and the Supreme Court said we should come back. We came back and took plea, now they want to go to Lagos.

Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu wasn’t the Governor of Lagos State; he was the Governor of Abia State. If you recall, there was a time the same EFCC took Ibori’s case to Kaduna; the Court of Appeal chased them back and said it was forum shopping. It ordered them to go to Asaba and do it.

If at all there should be any order of transfer, it should be a transfer back to Umuahia, but we are not calling for transfer. We must do this case here in Abuja, because this is where the Supreme Court said we should do it.

From the letter the EFCC wrote, have you been able to find out any reason they adduced for taking this step?

Well, that letter has not been made available to us. We’ve not seen

it and there is no reason they will adduce that will be tenable because the judge handling the matter now has not done anything that is not proper. We took plea and the judge gave three days for accelerated hearing.

The Administration of Criminal Justice Act says that the case must be heard every day and the judge gave three days- Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Why won’t they go and get their witnesses ready and come to court on that day? Why should they now be shopping for a forum; going from one court to the other. It is not the way things are done. Things must be done properly and that is why we are saying we support the fight against corruption but it must be done within the ambit of the rule of law. The moment you want to take this thing outside the rule of law, it means you want to indulge in kangaroo practice.

We understand that this letter seeking for the transfer of the case was written by the EFCC and not even the lawyers representing the Commission. Is that the right approach?

It is very wrong. You see when you have a case in court and you have a counsel, anything you do in respect of that matter must be handled by the counsel in the matter. The counsel must also copy such a letter to the other counsels representing the other parties in the matter. So for the EFCC to try and sidetrack their lawyer and now do the letter themselves shows you the CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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POLITICS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

AD, PDP allege plot to attack members Stories by Babatope Okeowo Akure

T

he Alliance for Democracy (AD) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday traded words over plans to attack each other ahead of the November 26 governorship election in Ondo State.

AD, through the Director-General of Olusola Oke Campaign Organisa-

tion, Hon. Bola Ilori, accused the ruling PDP in the state of using thugs to disrupt its campaign in its bid to distract its candidate and therefore appealed to the state police command and other security agencies to be proactive in the protection of its members before, during and after the election.

Ilori described AD as a fast growing political party in the country, both in members and structure, adding that it was certain

ONDo DECIDES

that the party will defeat both the ruling party and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the governorship election. This, according to him explains

the distraction.

His words: "Recent experience has confirmed that our members have been attacked in Idanre, Ose, Ikare and Ondo city by known thugs of the ruling party and their sympathizers in the state. Part of the plans uncovered indicates that this incident would be on the rise in the coming days."

He also alleged that some political detractors in the state are planning to make sure that the image of its candidate, Oke,

was brought to disrepute, using various platforms.

But the Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Banji Okunomo, in a swift reaction, denied the allegation. He said the PDP is a peace-loving party which does not involve in any act of violence.

According to him, AD is an extension of the APC which is seeking relevance in the media through raising frivolous allegation.

"We don't have any issue to contend with the

AD because we don't see it as a party that has the capacity to win election, considering its organisation and structure. So, if there are people having issues with the AD, they may be those who were in the APC with them.

"They have a lot of contention with their parent party, APC. The AD and the APC are feeling threatened because of the popularity of our party in this state. We don't breed thugs and we can't attack them," he said.

SDP explains choice of female deputy governorship candidate he Social Democratic brunts, they are also the T Party (SDP) in Ondo highest voters in any soState has said that its ciety. choice of woman as the running mate to the party’s candidate, Dr. Olu Agunloye, is in fulfillment of the party’s desire to give women a place of pride in the country.

The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Alfa Mohammed, who spoke on the issue, said the choice of Erelu Modupe Akindele-Martins’s is a winning strategy for the party.

Mohammed explained further that various variables were considered before Akindele-Martins was picked out of many who signified interest for the ticket, so as to give the party an edge over other serious contenders in the election.

He said that out of the parties contesting for the election in the state, only SDP has heeded to the clamour of the people of the state to have gender sensitive candidature.

He stated that the roles of women in the society cannot be over-emphasized, stressing that aside advising, moulding of children and bearing

Mohammed disclosed that the aforementioned variables informed the party's decision, and more so, to afford the women folk a chance in governance and fulfill the global 35 per cent Affirmative Action.

Also speaking on the issue, the Secretary of the party, Mr. Oladele Ogunbameru, said that the three parametres considered in choosing the running mate – religion, geography and gender – favoured the choice of Erelu Akindele-Martins and distinguished SDP in the race.

His words "For the first time in the history of Ondo State, the people are having the privilege of having a complete family lifestyle in politics and governance."

He added that the “uncommon match” would translate to responsible, responsive and good governance for the people of the state as obtainable in other states and political climes, where such gender equality is in practice.

Akeredolu

he governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), yesterday, inaugurated reconciliation committees to bring back all aggrieved members of the party to the fold.

The reconciliation committees are in three folds, one for each senatorial district and each headed by an elder of the party in the respective districts.

One of the APC governorship aspirants, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, heads the reconciliation committee for Ondo North Senato-

rial District. He would be working with others including Hon. Taofeek Abdulsalam, Akin Aibinuomo, Moyosola Oladunni, Dotun Owanikin, Foluso Babade and Femi Osedimbola.

The reconciliation committee for Ondo Central is headed by a former senator representing the district, Senator Ayo Akinyelure. He will work with others including Ademola Adegoroye, Gboyega Adedipe, Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye, Hon. Ayo Agbomuserin and Agboola Kelly.

Ondo South reconciliation committee is headed

Oke

How Akeredolu saved Awo's legacies – Odu

F

ormer Ondo State Commissioner for Education in Ondo State, Princess Oladunni Odu, yesterday said the governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN) once saved one of the legacies of Chief Obafemi Awolowo from being sold.

Odu, who served alongside Akeredolu as commissioners under the regime of Navy Capt Anthony Onyarubulem, said the Araromi-Obu Rubber plantation was almost sold off but for the dogged intervention of Akeredolu who was then

APC inaugurates reconciliation committees

T

Jegede

by the Femi Agagu, the former Chief of Staff to late Dr. Olusegun Agagu.

He would lead others including Princes Oladunni Odu, Diran Iyantan, Yele Akinya, Oluyide Mekuleyi, Festus Adefiranye and Chief POA Oyetan.

The three groups are to reconcile party members in all the three senatorial districts of the state.

Speaking during the inauguration of the committees in Akure yesterday, Akeredolu said it is important for APC to go into the November 26 governorship election as one family with a common objective.

the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state.

She spoke with reporters in Akure, the state capital, where she and other members of Prof Ajayi Borrofice Campaign Group declared support for Akeredolu’s governorship ambition. She expressed confidence that Akeredolu's government would be very beneficiary especially to the masses.

Relieving her experience as a commissioner during the military regime, Odu said: "I have worked with him (Akeredolu) and I know he's a bold man, a courageous man. He's a man who can never sell the heritage of Ondo State.

"Back in 1998, we

worked under the military, and late Onyarubulem wanted to sell off the Araromi rubber plantation, maybe you all know Araromi, it is a big investment of the Yorubas, he wanted to sell it off "Rotimi got wind of it and called me and said we won't allow it and before daybreak, he had already leaked the story to the Tribune Newspaper and they published it. The second day, the administrator was embarrassed, he called for an emergency meeting and asked: Mrs Odu, what is this?

"I said your Excellency, I didn't know what you are talking about, when he asked Rotimi, Rotimi stood up and said your Excellency, this is Yoruba's

legacy, this is Awolowo's legacy, we will not sit down here as Yoruba people and allow this legacy to be sold off "When the administrator asked questions around the council, all of us spoke with one voice that we will not allow the legacy of Awolowo to be sold off. Because, Rotimi said, his children would ask him questions if the legacy was sold off. That, is the kind of person Akeredolu is, he is a very bold person. He will say what he meant and how he meant it without mincing words, and I feel, if we support him to become the governor, we will have no regret as the sun will shine again in Ondo State".

Youth group to monitor election

Y

outh Initiative for Advocacy, Growth, and Advancement (YIAGA), has said it would be deploying the Watching The Vote (WTV) methodology for the November 26 governorship election in Ondo State.

This, according to the group will ensure that the result of the election is not manipulated by any political party or individual.

Executive Director of the Abuja-based group, Mr. Samson Itodo, dis-

closed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Akure. He said that the WTV observation methodology will employ statistical principles and information technology to provide systematic data on the quality of election day processes.

He added that WTV will deploy evidential reports that enhance the credibility of election results as well as adopt evidence-based approach to election observation.

He said: “In line with international and national guiding principles on election observation, the WTV is designed to provide a baseline for the assessment of elections and build confidence in electoral process.

“This methodology involves the recruitment, training and deployment of accredited observers to pre-assigned polling units, which are selected from a representative sample of all polling units in Ondo State.”

Politics

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

13

Cover up of judicial corruption by NJC Olanrewaju Suraju

T

he attention of the members of the Civil Society Network Against Corruption (CSNAC) been drawn to the claim of the National Judicial Council (NJC) that it has acted on all petitions alleging misconduct on the part of judicial officers in line with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999. The claim of the NJC is completely misleading because it is far from the truth.

Contrary to such claim, CSNAC wishes to state that the deliberate refusal of the NJC to investigate and sanction judges accused of corruption, abuse of office and other acts of misconduct by members of the public has encouraged judicial corruption in the country. Corruption and impunity is endemic in Nigeria’s judicial system. In other words, the outright failure of the judiciary to purge the Nigerian judicial system of corrupt practices has eroded public confidence in the judiciary. Indeed, the disciplinary measures meted out to some erring judges have cast serious doubt on the expressed commitment of the NJC to restore public confidence in the country's judiciary.

The claim of the NJC that it is committed to the anti-corruption policy of the Muhammadu Buhari administration flies in the face of the granting of frivolous injunctions issued by judges, which have frustrated the investigation and prosecution of politically exposed persons and people accused of corruption. In several other cases, judges involved in the trial of corruption cases as well as the appellate courts have granted stay of proceedings to stall the prosecution of corrupt people in the society. Apart from the case of Justice Mohammed Yunusa, who was recently recommended for retirement by the NJC, no other judge has been sanctioned by the commission for frustrating the fight against corruption.

Even in the case of Justice Yunusa, the NJC failed to act until CSNAC had to compile seven cases in which the judge granted perpetual injunction to restrain the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) and the offices of the InspectorGeneral of Police and AttorneyGeneral of the Federation from prosecuting some persons accused of criminal diversion of billions of naira.

In view of the false claim of the NJC that it has been dealing promptly with allegations of misconduct against judicial officers, CSNAC is compelled to ask the NJC why it has decided not to investigate and sanction judges alleged of judicial corruption in the following petitions: The petition against Justice B.A Adejumo, President of the National Industrial Court for granting illegal ex parte orders against two state governments. The petitions were submitted to the NJC by the governments of Edo and Oyo states.

The petition written against the President of the Court of Appeal for the failure to hear and

Justice Mahmud Mohammed, Chief Justice of Nigeria

determine the appeal filed by the EFCC in 2008 at the Court of Appeal against the judgment of Justice Buba in the Peter Odili case.

The counsel handling the case on behalf of the EFCC is the current President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mr. A. B. Mahmoud (SAN). The petition was written

by CSNAC. The petition written against four judges namely; Justice Uwani Abba-Aji of the Court of Appeal, Justice Ibrahim Auta, Justice Hyeladzira Nganjiwa and Mohammed Yunusa of the Federal High Court and Chief Judge of the Federal High Court alleged to have collected bribes from Mr. Rickey Tarfa (SAN) currently undergoing trial for transfer of sums of money to the judges. The petition was submitted to the NJC by CSNAC. The petition written against Justice Marcel Awokulehin for sentencing convicted drug dealers to lesser terms contrary to the provisions of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act. The petition was submitted to the NJC by CSNAC. The petition written against Justice Abdul Kafarati for gross misconduct and desecration of the bench. The petition was submitted to the NJC by CSNAC. The petition written against Justice Adejumo for recommending unqualified candidates who were appointed as judges of the

Mahmoud

Corruption and impunity in the judiciary pose serious disincentive to credible administration of justice

National Industrial Court. The petition was written by CSNAC. The NJC gave the impression that there is only one petition pending against Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the federal high court.

This is not correct as the NJC also received a petition alleging that the judge wrote two judgments in one case. The petition together with the two judgements, were submitted to the NJC by the Committee of Anambra State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives members-elect.

On not less than two occasions, Justice Ademola has obtained injunctions to restrain the NJC from investigating allegations of corruption against him. What steps did the NJC take to set aside the black market injunctions?

Justice I. A. Umezulike, Chief Judge of Enugu State has been retired on the recommendation of the NJC for launching a book where he collected N10 million from a litigant. Why was Justice Ibrahim Auta who collected over N40 million from his book launch not recommended for retirement by the NJC? A petition to this effect was submitted by CSNAC. The petition submitted to the NJC by the Department of State Services (DSS) last week on the 15 judges, who are said to have engaged in money laundering and corruption was not considered.

Did the same NJC not recommend

the dismissal and prosecution of Justice Kabiru Auta, who had collected N200 million bribe from a litigant. Why was the NJC silent on the millions of naira, dollars, pounds and other foreign currencies?

In the press statement issued at the end of its meeting last week, the NJC claimed that it recommended Justice Tiamiya of the Court of Appeal for retirement because he demanded N200 million from a litigant whose appeal in an election petition was pending before the court. Is the NJC not aware that anyone who demands a bribe has committed a serious offence under the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Offences Act? Why was he not recommended for prosecution?

We recall that the NJC recently recommended the retirement of some judges for not delivering judgments within the 90 days stipulated by the constitution. But why was Justice Rita Ajumogobia merely warned by the NJC even though it was found as a fact that she did not deliver judgment in a pre-election matter until the expiration of the term of office of the defendant?

The cases cited above are among several others alleging corruption and misconduct on the part of some members of the NJC and other judges who are said to be untouchable in the judiciary. It is the cover of judicial corruption which has led the DSS to intervene in order to end impunity in the Nigerian judiciary.

CSNAC is of firm opinion that corruption and impunity in the judiciary pose serious disincentive to credible administration of justice as well as impugn on the collective psyche of stakeholders in the judicial system.

CSNAC therefore calls on the NJC to join the call to rid the judiciary of bad eggs, in the interest of justice, democracy and good governance.

In view of the foregoing the CSNAC is compelled to call on the NJC to investigate the petitions referred to above without any further delay. Meanwhile the public deserves to know why the NJC refused to investigate the judges involved in the serious allegations of misconduct raised in the said petitions.

•Suraju, the chairman of CSNAC, writes from Lagos

Group urges Nigerians to hold public officials accountable

A

non-political and pressure group, True Change Advocacy (TCA) has urged Nigerians to join hands in fighting corruption by holding public officials accountable for the emancipation and liberation of the common people in Nigeria.

The group, with members from different professions, ethnic groups and religions, while addressing a press conference in Lagos, warned that if urgent step is not taken in bringing corrupt people to book, those who looted the treasury of the country will continue to subject the masses

to more hardship.

Coordinator of the group, Comrade Goddy Amanzechi, lamented that Nigerians have been cheated and intimidated over the years due to lack of check and balances to compel those in authority to render account of their stewardship.

He said Nigeria’s economic recession and rising exchange rate of foreign currencies were as a result of corruption and looting perpetrated by the politicians and leaders.

He also said that the Change mantra of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration is not the change Nigeri-

ans yearned for because the Muhammadu Buhari government has not delivered the expected change to Nigerians, considering the hardship in the country.

He noted that the change the country need is what will affect the lives of the poor masses positively.

Amanzechi, also implored religious leaders to stand in defence of the masses and make the society comfortable for their followers rather than subjecting people to various forms of exploitation in the name of miracles.

Speaking on the vision that

brought about the organisation, Amanzechi said TCA was a vision of Nigerians of like minds, who came together to form a watchdog body to monitor activities of both politicians and public office holders from the local government to national level.

He said the organisation is planning to open up chapters in both the rural and urban areas to sensitise and mobilise the masses on the need to fight for their rights as well educate them on how to improve their living standard without reliance on government.

14

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion Massaging Madam Aisha’s kitchen Emissary EMEKA OBASI emobas2003@yahoo.com 0809-445-7557 (sms only)

I

am enjoying a good laugh at a time many want to condemn President Muhammadu Buhari for confining his wife, Hajia Aisha, to the Kitchen. That to me is the greatest promotion a Nigerian leader could offer his better half.

Activists, the opposition and even those in the ruling party who are not getting what they bargained for have all the freedom to express their reservations about the finality of the President’s statement. Mine is to gradually prepare and work my way into the Aso Villa Kitchen.

In Nigerian politics we are familiar with the phrase Kitchen Cabinet. Commentators respect that cabinet more than the Federal Executive Council and the National Council of States. It is usually set up, not by the ruler but by the media and those who lose out in the power sharing equation.

Virtually all Nigerian Heads of government have had an imaginary Kitchen Cabinet. It could include people often referred to as Godfathers. Under Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa in the First Republic, many believed that the Premier of the Northern Region and Sarduana of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello, was the de facto leader. Men like Inua Wada and Muhammadu Ribadu were also influential as much as Dr. Moses Majekodunmi.

General Johnson Aguiyi Ironsi relied so much on top civil servants who were perceived to be more powerful than his Supreme Military Council that included Service Chiefs and Regional Military Governors like Commodore Joseph Wey, Colonels George Kurubo, Yakubu Gowon Emeka Ojukwu, David Ejoor and Ad-

ekunle Fajuyi.

Gowon’s inner circle was full of career civil servants who came to be known as Super Perm.

Secs [Permanent Secretaries]. They included Abdul Azeez Atta, Philip Asiodu, Alison Ayida and Solomon Akenzua [ the late Oba of Benin ] among many others.

Under the military, they were known as the Kaduna and Langtang Mafia. Even in Biafra, Ojukwu had what was known as Nnewi Mafia.

The leader of that group in the minds of his people was C.C. Mojekwu.

The return of democracy created even more powerful Kitchen Cabinets. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Gen. Yakubu Danjuma were like five and six before the tide turned. Alhaji Umaru Yar'adua was said to be surrounded by such powerful men as Tiaminu Yakubu, Emmanuel Andoakaa and Gen . Abdurahman Dambazau.

Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, many believed, relied so much on Diezani Alison-Madueke, Pius Anyim, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Tompolo to run his government.

President Buhari came and expectations were high that he would not be a toy in the hands of another Kitchen Cabinet. Gradually some names began to be mentioned in hushed tones. From the grapevine, we learnt that the new men in charge could include known and unknown faces on TV. The story about members of the Kitchen Cabinet is that they are so powerful that they hold the President hostage. I do not know how true that is. What is clear is that at the time Gen. Sani Abacha died, a member of the Langtang Mafia was around him. And when Yar'adua was almost gone, some members of the Inner Circle, kept a lot in the dark.

That is why I want to encourage our dear First Lady Aisha Buhari, to take charge of the President’s Kitchen ,full time. That is where the power lies. All those faces she does not like will have to start running away from her husband very soon. She is a woman , she must know what to do.

Madam First Lady must not listen to Peter Obi. Aso Villa should bubble all the time.

Those faces you do not like, just add more salt than necessary to their favourite meals

When the President’s wife is in charge of all his meals, that will be an opportunity to dissolve the present Kitchen Cabinet. Madam must serve Oga, breakfast, lunch and dinner.

That way, all those people around him will be forced to enter the President’s dining room.

They dare not discuss much with him when Madam is watching.

Then, Madam should also undertake some intelligence training. Find out what members of the present Kitchen Cabinet love to eat. Those faces you do not like, just add more salt than necessary to their favourite meals, or spice the food with pepper like it is a chilli pepper party for those who are prone to ulcer.

Gradually, the cabinet will be dissolved.

And since the First Lady is Chief of Kitchen Staff, she must dictate those who are qualified to dine with the President. If the Salt and Pepper approach does not scare them, that is. She has the power to fix a private lunch 31 days of the month or exclusive family dinner 28 days every month with the Commander-in- Chief.

The best way to a man’s heart is the stomach. Our president needs to add some weight.

I think the presidential cooks have not been doing enough or maybe, members of the Kitchen Cabinet are not giving him enough space to eat well prepared Nigerian dishes.

Madam could place Oga on special diet.

She has the power, it is the duty of the Kitchen General. What she does with her husband’s menu is none of our business. Just make sure there is enough Federal Character.

A breakfast of ogi and akara, tuwo as lunch and Nkwobi, prepared from the President’s cattle farm will work wonders at dinner.

And I am available to serve in the presidential kitchen. My fellow country men and women are flying out everyday to wash plates in Europe and the Americas, in downtown restaurants. I offer myself to Madam as a potential member of the Kitchen cabinet. My job will be to ward off all members of the present Kitchen Cabinet. Infact, I will lead the Kitchen Coup.

Judges’ arrest, DSS and my worry Fred Nwaozo

T

he last time I checked, the real change has arrived.

Between the night of Friday October 7 and early morning of Saturday October 8, 2016, seven Nigerian judges of different jurisdictions were arrested in their respective homes by the Department of the State Services (DSS) over alleged involvement in various corrupt practices. The judges arrested are Justices Inyang Okoro and Sylvester Ngwuta of the Supreme Court; Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court, Abuja; Muazu Pindiga of the Gombe High Court; Kabiru Auta of the Kano High Court; Mohammed Tsamiya of the Court of Appeal, Ilorin; and the former Enugu State’s Chief Judge, Innocent Umezulike.

It would be recalled that Justices Umezulike, Auta, and Tsamiya had earlier been recommended for sack by the National Judicial Council (NJC) for alleged fraud and corruption. The seven of the arrested judges were reportedly detained in the DSS headquarters, Abuja till the

following week pending when they would tender the requested statements as well as other correspondences expected of them.

It’s worth noting that, aside the judges, some members of the registry staff of the relevant courts have been invited by the DSS for interrogations.

It was gathered that the said security agency recovered several sums of huge amount of money, which were in different foreign currencies and the naira, from the various homes of the affected judges.

The agency has equally disclosed that, at least, eight more senior judges, both in service and retired, are currently being investigated for corrupt acts, and may be arrested anytime from now.

The judges’ arrest has been greeted by countless criticisms and counter reactions from various individuals and corporate bodies across the federation, particularly the Nigerian Bar association (NBA). On Saturday 8th October, the NBA through its President, Mr. Abubakar Mahmoud (SAN) declared a state of emergency in the judiciary having asked President Muhammadu Buhari to order the immediate release of the affected judicial custodians or be prepared to face the severe consequences.

The press statement, which was made in Lagos State in the company of the four past presidents of the association among other notable Senior Advocates of Nigeria

(SANs), claimed that the affected Supreme Court justices were ‘abducted’ alongside their families. The aforementioned boss, who condemned in its entirety what he termed the ‘Gestapo-style operation’ of the DSS, went further to announce the inauguration of an emergency cum crisis management team, comprising the former NBA leaders, to engage with the Federal Government (FG).

I keep wondering what was on the mind of the leadership of the NBA and other concerned groups when they said it was unconstitutional for the DSS to arrest judges. Wasn’t the statement trying to tell us that our judges are beyond arrest, or no authority is eligible to arrest them?

If the DSS lacks the power to carry out such concernment, I wonder whose power is constitutionally good enough to do so.

I would advise our teeming lawyers to always digest the Constitution painstakingly before appearing in the public to put up a statement, especially a very sensitive one of this kind. If the people we entrusted our laws with, could proudly and publicly tender such utterance, I wonder what is expected of other stakeholders let alone the masses. We are at all times required to embrace a deep thought before we make a comment, particularly one of public interest.

I was awaiting, and still eagerly await, the NBA to inform Nigerians the section(s)

of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, that stipulates that the country’s law court judges enjoy an immunity, either while in service or retired, that forbids any authority from arresting them when need be. Presently, until further amendment is made, only elected members of the executive arm – either federal or state – are entitled to the immunity clause as specified in Section 308 of the said constitution. So, when someone comes out to cite the contrary, it becomes an aberration; hence, completely unacceptable.

Even if the judges enjoy an immunity, there’s one tangible fact we must comprehend. The DSS is a special security outfit that operates independently. It does not act within the scope of the extant laws in Nigeria, just as the FBI does in the United States of America (U.S.A). Nevertheless, the DSS acted in compliance with the Administration of the Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015. Besides, it’s noteworthy that, the much derided immunity inherent is not applicable once the persons safeguarded by the section in question cease to function in an immune capacity; in other words, the clause itself has a limit.

I reliably learnt that the bone of contention regarding the arrest was the way and manner in which it was conducted.

•Nwaozo ( frednwaozor@gmail.com), wrote in from Port Harcourt.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

15

EDITORIAL

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The Judiciary after Mahmoud Mohammed

n what appeared to be his last ceremony conducted to usher in a new legal year, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mahmoud Mohammed proudly declared: “By the will of the Almighty, I am leaving the Supreme Court in a better shape than I met it. Indeed, in the past year, this court has witnessed numerous improvements, both in terms of physical infrastructure and statutory functioning that will no doubt put us on the cusp of greater.”

Justice Mohammed was apparently dwelling on his achievements following a series of reforms carried out in his almost two years in office as the nation’s Chief Justice.

Although the CJN spoke at the commencement of the new legal year of the Supreme Court and the investiture of the new Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) on many of his reforms, he is worried that the judiciary he is leaving behind may be compromised by some bad eggs on the Bench.

He said: “Judges must be able to hold the balance between order and chaos, harmony and violence, prosperity and poverty.”

No doubt, the chief justice of Nigeria who will bow out on November 10 is being commended for a number of reforms carried out by his leadership especially his tenure as the Chairman of the

National Judicial Council (NJC) which has been very remarkable.

There have been a lot of disciplinary measures taken against erring judges.

In two years of his stewardship, no fewer than 20 judges were shown the way out on allegations of bribery and corruption while scores are still under investigation.

In September, three judges including the Chief Judge of Enugu State were axed by the National Judicial Council (NJC), the judiciary's highest ruling body, chaired by Justice Mohammed on sundry allegations of

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the Owerri Division of the Court during the 2015 general elections.

These inclded, among others corruption, malice and vindictiveness; and giving perverse and conflicting decisions on the same issue in similar matters in Appeal CA/ OW/EPT/SN/50/2015: Chief Dr. David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex vs Hon. Mao Onuabunwa & Anor; CA/OW/EPT/SN/47/2015; Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu & Anor vs Hon. Mao Ohuabunwa & Ors; and CA/OW/ EPT/HR/61/2015: Nnamdi Iro Oji

His tenure brought some level of sanity to the judiciary

bribery and corruption.

The judges-Justices Innocent Umezulike (Enugu Chief Judge), Mohammed Ladan Tsamiya (Presiding Justice, Court of Appeal, Ilorin Division) and Kabiru Auta of the Kano State judiciary, got the boot.

Their sack was predicated on petitions which accused them of soiling their hands and compromising their oath of office.

For instance, Justice Tsamiya of the Court of Appeal was recommended for compulsory retirement from office to President Muhammadu Buhari, pursuant to the ‘findings’ by the Council following the allegations in the petition written by Nnamdi Iro Oji against him and Justices Husseini Muktar, F. O. Akinbami and J. Y. Tukur, all justices of the Court of Appeal who sat on Election Appeal Panel in

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

vs Nkole Uko Ndukwe & 16 Ors. They were however found guilty on the grounds “that there was

evidence that the petitioner met with Justice Mohammed Ladan Tsamiya thrice in his residence in Sokoto, Gwarinpa, Abuja and Owerri, where on each occasion, he demanded from him the sum of N200,000.000 (two hundred million naira) to influence the Court of Appeal Panel in Owerri or risk losing the case.”

While appraising his tenure, the retiring CJN in his words said “in the past year, the judiciary has once again had to address the perennial issue of delays in the administration of justice.”

No doubt, Justice Mohammed deserves a good rest, having contributed substantially to the development of the nation’s jurisprudence.

History will not forget him as it is on record that his tenure brought some level of sanity to the judiciary by exposing his colleagues who are

corrupt.

We must commend Justice Mohammed for attaining this rare feat; for sanitising the judiciary of corrupt judges. We hold him in high esteem as he is retiring as a man without any blemish and as someone who is leaving judiciary better than he met it.

In fairness, the retiring Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) must be commended in terms of an improved technology of sort in the judiciary.

It is on record that the nation’s judiciary has adopted the use of Information and Communications Technology which has in no small measure helped to bring court processes in line with the expectation of the millennial generation of citizens who crave swift 21st Century system of justice.

This has really made the Supreme Court to become a pilot court for the judiciary’s drive for the historic launch of the Nigerian Case Management System (NCMS) Software, which was developed in order to facilitate the transition to a paperless adjudication system, through the automation of the process of filing, service and notifications via hearing notices, among many other innovations.

For the first time, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) received a boost following the effort of the retiring chief justice as lawyers and litigants are now opting for the mechanism as a process of resolving disputes.

These lofty reforms initiated

by Justice Mohammed will forever put him far ahead of other Justices before him.

16

POLITICS

Idowu Ajanaku

“T

his is my first trip to sub-Saharan Africa.

Meeting with developers and entrepreneurs has assisted me in learning about the startup ecosystem in Nigeria. The energy here is amazing and I’m excited to learn as much as I can” - Mark Zuckerberg Both are young, articulate, dynamic and share a similar passion for quality education delivery. Both are also driven by futuristic ideas with a global vision. Incidentally too, both are information-savvy philanthropists and providers of veritable platforms for the youths to freely express their views. But while one is a Jewish-American, the other is Omo Naija gon-goni, as we describe true-born Nigerians in Pidgin English parlance. Yet, there is still more to their point of convergence than people may readily admit. But who really are we talking about here?

The first of course, is Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook .

His name certainly rings a loud and crisp-clear note in the vast firmament of our knowledge- economy that drives several global thoughts and processes, virtually on daily basis. He, along with his friends, Dustin Moskovitz, Chris Hughes and Eduardo Saverin, by their sheer creative ingenuity came up with the site which allows users to create their own profiles, upload photos and communicate with other users. That was in 2004. By the end of that year it had reached one million users. But it has since grown to more than 250 million people, over the past 12 years, making Zuckerberg a billionaire.

That global attention was riveted on the commercial nerve-centre of Nigeria; nay the West African Sub-region by his recent visit was understandable. It clearly signals a profound message of increasing hope for faster economic development of the megalopolis and that of the youths. There comes in the commendable giant steps, so far taken by the governor of the host state, the highly focused and resourceful, Akinwunmi Ambodeled administration to reposition the state for an all-embracing Centre of socio-economic and political.

Notably, he has since assumption of office about one and a half years

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Zuckerberg, Ambode and emerging IT revolution in Lagos

Zuckerberg

ago propelled his vision of Lagos as a destination of choice for any serious-minded, entrepreneur from anywhere in the world.

What with the assurance of all-round, tight security network, courtesy of his donation of top-ofthe range security gadgets to the police and all-inclusive community surveillance, across the state. What with the massive infrastructural development of roads, bridges and clearing of waterways to facilitate journeys by sea. What about the focus on the triple projects of Eko Atlantic City, the $300 Elegushi Kingdom Imperial City as well as the history-making Smart City, coming up in conjunction with Smart City LLC, Dubai being the first of its kind in Africa.

Indeed, it is heart-warming to note that the Co-Creation Hu CcHub, the first of the two facilities visited by Zucerberg at Yaba, Lagos was donated by the state government. Its noble aim is to further the cause of enhanced, ICT-driven entrepreneurial activities that the state is currently known for. In fact, the visitor was so thrilled that he

Ambode

Zuckerberg’s visit is a potential pragmatic synergy between like minds, to build strong and sustainable socioeconomic programmes

had this to say: “I got to talk to kids at a summer coaching camp and entrepreneurs who came to Cchub to build and launch their apps. I’m looking forward to meeting more people in Nigeria.”

Truth is, that Zuckerberg had read a lot about it before his visit but needed to find out, first-hand what the true situation was. That inspired his scientifically-honed, inquisitive mind to sneak into the city at the wee of that night, unnoticed. Beyond getting to breathe the fresh, free air of Lagos, he jugged along the modern Lekki- Ikoyi link bridge in the company of some youths to show the world that here, indeed, is the next Dubai to do business in safety, comfort and style.

That also puts to rest the fundamental questions that would have been raised if the situation was otherwise. Could he have risked his dear life to travel to a violenceprone and politically unstable city?

Of course, not. Could he also have dared to meet with whiz kids of Information Communication Technology (ICT) at the Yaba-based Andela, if the enabling environment

has not been provided by the state government? Certainly, not!

For instance, Andela is on record that Andela is an engineering organisation building and raising the next generation of technical leaders in Africa. As a business venture it recruits the most talented technologists in Africa and shapes them into world-class developers. The course runs for four years. It has accepted 200 engineers from a pool of 40,000 applicants in its first two years of operation. It would be recalled that early this year, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative gladly invested in Andela because it was greatly impressed by the company’s innovative model of learning and its determination to connect the global technology ecosystem, using the most talented developers in Africa.

According to Seni Sulyman, the Director of Andela, “Marks’ visit demonstrates to all Nigerians developers and entrepreneurs that they have caught the attention of the tech world, and they are capable of succeeding on a truly global level.”

The question now is how to build on Zuckerberg’s visit? With both the visitor and Ambode wellknown as philanthropists there is need for more effective collaborations. For instance, La Roche Leadership Foundation established by Ambode in 2012 is a non-profit organisation with the mandate of developing educational and leadership skills of young Nigerians. As the state governor, efforts should be sustained, to strengthen our educational processes based on accessible and affordable information technological processes.

Zuckerberg’s visit is a potential pragmatic synergy between like minds, to build strong and sustainable socio-economic programmes, processes and projects for the benefit of Lagos and more so our job-seeking youths. That is the dancing steps of Ambode.

•Ajanaku is the Senior Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor on Media and Strategy.

Akuma: EFCC pursuing jankara judgement against Kalu C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 1

kind of trick they want to play and that is the more reason why I will call on the Chief Judge to see the danger in what they are bringing before him. The proper thing for us to do is to go back to Court Five in Abuja where this matter is pending and finish our matter there. The Supreme Court says this is where it should be done and we are ready to do this case in Abuja.

You mentioned that this case has been on since 2007, what do you think has been delaying it?

It is the procedure in the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. Those courts are inundated with a whole lot of cases. There are 2005 cases that are still pending at the Supreme Court. There are 2010 cases that are still in the Court of Appeal. If you go to the Supreme Court now, you will see that there are at least 1,000 cases registered for this year. So it has been. The litigation space has been opened and everybody is litigating and that is what democracy is all about. Do

you want people to resort to self help?

It is the judiciary that tries to calm down a whole lot of things. So when you file a case, you do it, exchange notes and you will be waiting for date. You go cap in hand begging for you to be given a day to do your case because of the workload. Don’t forget that throughout last year, the courts were busy with pre-election matter and cases arising from the elections. When you have such matters, the courts will step down any other case because of the timelines associated with election petitions both on the part of the litigants and on the part of the courts.

Would you say that the judiciary has been on trial in recent times?

Well, the government is just trying to cow the judiciary. If the judiciary is given all the necessary facilities to work, I think that they will deliver on their mandate.

What is you opinion on the recent arrest of some judges?

Personally, I have no problem with the arrest of anybody, my quarrel is on the mo-

dus operandi of the Department of State Services (DSS) . That is not the way to do it.

If the DSS is serious about fighting crime, they should know that there are laid down procedures of dealing with judges as there are equally laid down procedures of dealing with soldiers and policemen.

When a soldier is involved in a crime, the Nigerian Army does not throw him to the police. What they do is to put him through Court Martial, discipline him there, remove his uniform before handing him over to the police for prosecution.

The same thing applies in the case of the Police. If any policeman is involved in any infraction of the law or criminality, they will first of all conduct their Orderly Room trial before handing him over for prosecution. Some of us have represented policemen who were involved in murder cases.

They were not there as policemen.

With all due respects, what the DSS ought to have done in the case of the judges is if you have a case against these people, you present your evidence to the National Judicial Council (NJC). The NJC

will take the necessary steps to get the person disciplined according to the rules and procedures before handing them back for prosecution. By that time that person will no longer be answering a judge because he will have left that realm. So we cannot just go on as if there are no laws and make any progress. They must ensure that they follow the procedures laid down by law.

Back to the transfer of Dr Orji Kalu’s case from Abuja to Lagos. What is the next line of action?

Well, we are going to approach the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court and I know he is a seasoned judge who knows the rules on how this thing can be handled.

We will tell him to refrain from making any orders for transfer.

What if that step fails?

If that order of transfer is made against what we are saying, then we will apply to him to set it aside. If he makes it, we are going to apply to him to set it aside because it is purely forum shopping and we will not advise our client to be part of it.

17

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Arts

Orality, new media for NOLA biennial conference

CULTURE

18

Infinite Treasures II illustrates spirit of purpose, creativity –Olaku

Tony Okuyeme

A

group exhibition, featuring works by celebrated Nigerian artists, opens tomorrow in Lagos.

Titled Infinite Treasures II, the exhibition is “another historic chapter in the unfolding evolutionary quest to better the lot of the practising, professional artist in the rather debilitating Nigerian environment.”

The show is dubbed a pragmatic, alleviative concept borne out of the exigencies and attendant, challenging experiences of the full-time studio artist. “Because of the identified challenges that had consistently dogged the steps of these artists, and had also, (apart from militating against their progress and development), actually extinguished not a few potentials in the industry, some of us with our loaded, comprehensive experience in practice, administration, management, teaching and mentoring, decided to go beyond complaining about these inimical ‘hamstrings’ and take pro-active steps and the responsibility to not only remedy the situation, but reverse the dismal trajectory.

This desire acquired the potency of life more or less by happenstance in 2013, when I converted a scheduled solo outing at Terrakulture, to a self-propelled group exhibition of seven carefully-selected established and respected artists, (including my humble self), due to my logistical inability to meet the deadline. To achieve this, naturally I drew strength from the overflowing goodwill embedded in my valued immediate constituencies of Universal Studios of Art (U.S.A) and The Guild of Pro-

TONY OKUYEME Arts Editor tony.okuyeme@newtelegraphonline.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Looking Ahead

fessional Fine Artists of Nigeria (GFA), whose essential principles of being and existence are premised on the same issues of survival and social recognition which I mentioned earlier,” says Abiodun Olaku, convener of the exhibition.

He also notes that in alignment with one of their core objectives to ensure that Nigerian contemporary art grows in character, content and value, the periodic themes are generated to illustrate and stress the spirit of the purpose.

Olaku stated this on Tuesday at a press briefing held at the Universal Studios of Art, National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, to announce the opening of the exhibition, noting that, “Infinite Treasures II, as a serial exhibition, is no less apt in this regard. As we deepen the search for a more conducive and enabling creative environment and contemporary functional infrastructure, (which will ensure that the visual art sub-sector of the Nigerian economy, as well as its core stake holders therein, key in perfectly into the scheme of things in the new economic order, which is aimed at fundamentally diversifying the economy and redirecting our focus and energies

At the Festival by Kolade Oshinowo

Infinite Treasures II, as a serial exhibition, is no less apt...

from the beaten and saturated oil sector), we resolutely restate that we shall neither relent nor compromise on the principles and attitudes that have taken us thus far, and got us rated as artists of distinction and quintessential essence.”

In the spirit of ‘Do It Yourself ’, each participating artist was levied an affordable sum, which incidentally only covered a fraction of the budget, to deliver a high-quality programme.

At this point, and upon a passionate plea, a very trusted and faithful art patron and friend, Mr. Kunle Tinubu, through his company, Trojan Estates Limited, extended his grace of financial support to bring our objective to fruition in a most befitting manner expected of this cadre of artists.

“Three years down the line, and at the

Olaku

threshold of a fourth edition of this evolutionary journey, titled Infinite Treasures II, the volume of participants has increased to 13. Significantly, last year, foremost Nigerian artist and icon of the industry, living legend Mr. Kolade Oshinowo, (who taught and mentored a number of the artists on show here), agreed to lend his clout to this distinguished creative assemblage, and in doing so improved the pedigree of our collective. Noteworthy is that fact that the selection of artists and the criteria transcends generational, philosophical, stylistic or gender considerations, thereby causing the inclusion of younger artists like Diseye Tantua, Segun Aiyesan and Mufu Onifade lately. Merit in professionalism is a key watchword that consistently guides the selection of participants behind the scene, it must be said. And we do not intend to compromise on that.

“A few of our friends and patrons in sharing our passion and vision, have always stood by us in situations or quests such as this, by extending their interest in the arts well beyond purchase and art commissions – They have consistently supported in other ways, including giving unconditional financial backing to these programmes.

Without such solid, tangible and gracious support, most of our intended projects would remain mere wishes and pipe dreams.”

The show, according to him, is supported by patrons such as Mr. Kunle Tinubu, MD, CEO Trojan Estates Limited who powered the first two in the series tagged Distinction I and Distinction II, and Mr. Frank Momoh, CEO of Frot Foundation who gave the main financial backing to Infinite Treasures II. “Our 2016 outing presents a total of 13 notable Nigerian artists spanning over three generations, and is ably led by tested and most accomplished master painter Kolade Oshinowo. Others are: Reuben Ugbine (sculptor), Bunmi Babatunde (sculptor), Abiodun Olaku (painter), Edosa Ogiugo (painter), Duke Asidere (painter), Alex Nwokolo (painter), Fidelis Eze Odogwu (sculptor), Olusegun Adejumo (painter), Sam Ovraiti (painter), Diseye Tantua (painter), Mufu Onifade (painter), and Segun Aiyesan (painter).

The exhibition which will run till Monday October 31, 2016, is organised and curated

by Abiodun Olaku and Fidelis Eze Odogwu.

18

ART

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Orality, new media for NOLA biennial conference Tony Okuyeme

“O

rality, New Media and Creative Industries”, is the theme of the 4th Biennial Conference of the Nigerian Oral Literature Association (NOLA) which began on Wednesday, at the University of Abuja, Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

The Conference, hosted by the Faculty of Arts, University of Abuja, seeks examines the influence of new media and its promotion of the creative industries in Nigeria and Africa.

According to the organisers, the theme of the conference, which ends tomorrow, has been informed by the current evolutionary changes in the media and communication sector that have, in recent times, fostered efficient and seamless transmission of information, knowledge and interaction across the globe.

In this new globalisation, some of the world’s largest corporations and most iconic creators, inventors and investors are to be found in the communications media economy.

Radio, television and social media platforms, such as, Internet, facebook, linkedIn, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, Whatsapp, Skye, Blogs, and various digital media devices enable billions of people to connect and interact; and all these phenomenal transformations give greater primacy to Orality and its associated media.”

Meanwhile, the conference is also expected to evaluate the effects of exponential changes on creative artists, scholars, researchers, policy makers, service providers, inventors and marketers, among others, as well as their contributions to national economic growth and diversification.

Sub-themes for the conference include: Oral Traditions, New Media and Economy of Creative Industries; Orality, Social Media, Creative/Entertainment Industries; Oral Literatures, New Media and Creative Industries; Orality, New Media and Popular Culture; Orality, Folklore and the Internet; Orality, New Media and Digital Storytelling/ Narration; Orality, New Media, and Popular Music; Oral Literatures, New Media, Theatre, Drama, Dance and Performing Arts; Orality, Oratorical Arts, Stand-Up Comedy; Orality, New Media, Proverbs, Riddles, Jokes, Aphorisms, etc.

Others are Orality, New Media, Video Films, Nollywood Industries; Orality, New Media, Mass Communication, Broadcasting/Journalism; Orality, New Media, Festivals, and Creative Industries; Oral Traditions, Tourism/Travels and Creative Industries; Orality, New Media, Linguistics, Languages and Multi-culturalism; Orality, New Media, and Translation/ Transmissions; Orality, New Media, Fine and Designed Arts/Industries; Orality, New Media, Gender, Women and Creative Industries; Orality, New Media, Children/Juvenile Arts; Orality, New Media, Religions, Ethics and

Creative Industries; Orality, New Media, Cyber Crime and Cyber Security; Orality, New Media, Marketing, Advertising and Creative Industries; Orality, New Media, Training and Education of Artists; Orality, New Media, Research and Documentation and Orality, New Media, Sports and Recreation Events.

The conference, which has Professor G. G Darah, the NOLA President as convener and Professor A. A. Kola-

wole, DVC, University of Abuja, as LOC Chair, has Professor Mobolanle Ebunoluwa Sotunsa of Babcock University, Inisan-Remo, as Keynote Speaker, Professor Michael Adikwu, the Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja, as chief host, while just as Professors Chinyere Nwahunanya of Abia State University, Uturu and Nereus Yerima Tadi of Gombe State University are expected to present lead papers.

L-R: Cast of The Movie ‘76, Nollywood Actor, Ramsey Noah, Actress, Rita Dominic and Executive Producer, Prince Tonye Princewll, during BFI London Film Festival held in London on Saturday

Private sector should partner Lagos on beautification projects – Akinlonu Flora Onwudiwe

C

A scene in Jungle Justice

Jungle Justice goes on stage

I

badan PlayHouse is set for its next live stage offering with the production of Jungle Justice, a hilarious comedy written by Femi Branch and directed by Joshua Alabi.

Performed by KinniNso Koncepts, the play production holds at the University of Ibadan on October 28 and 29 and at the Lagos Country Club on the 6th of November.

Jungle Justice is a hilarious comedy set in a courtroom. The story centres on ‘Ijimere Ika’, a notorious area boy who’s being arraigned in court for killing his friend.

The play depicts the normal Nigerian court with a Judge and Lawyer but with a super-silly Policeman as the court clerk, and extra-terrestrial dramatic innuendos just to create Humour and life.

The play kicks off as Ijimere Ika is arraigned in court for the murder of

his best friend. During the questioning process at the court, Sadiq Danjuma, a long sworn enemy of Ijimere is invited by the Prosecuting Counsel to witness against Ijimere.

The play takes the audience through this hilarious comedy which plays out the major problem with the Nigeria legislative arm, the judiciary, and the police force and the masses.

Danjuma is eventually thrown out of the court for his lack of understanding and illiteracy. Ijimereis happy at the tur n out, but finds out however, that it is just the beginning. The appearance of Fadeke, Ijimeres wife changes the whole story as she is ready to testify and bring him down. In the unfolding scenario, the judge at a point, orders his subjects to kneel down and raise their hands?

elebrated artist, Dejo Victor Akinlonu, popularly known as Dejak in the entertainment circle, has urged the private sectors to embrace partnership with the Lagos state government offer on various projects, maintaining that this is their most pragmatic contribution in moving the state forward.

He made this submission at a briefing after a closed door meeting with the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Olawale Oluwo and other stakeholders in the private sector.

Akinlonu, an ardent admirer of legendary artist, Leonard Davinci, stated that big things start small, urging the stakeholders to be very serious in their attitude in this partnership scheme, saying “this is the hallmark of pragmatism theory, I am preaching of.”

The artist, who handled the heroic art works in the Oshodi Heritage Park, Eyo Monument, Status of Oba Adeniji Adele, the bust of Late Molade OkoyaThomas and other great works, admonished fellow stakeholders in the private sector to develop the spirit of identifying with viable projects like the current “beautification of Lagos and private partnership program (PPP)”of the state government.

According to him, the pivot of the private sector scheme as recorded in the history, is a call for patriotic private stakeholders to get set to key into Governor Ambode’s Mega City project with determination to do their best in the realisation of the scheme.

He stated that unless they put in their best, it may be difficult for the government to recognize their efforts, insisting that, “until this happens, their business profile will not be boosted before potential business men who want to do business with them”.

“Being a pioneer and official partner in this on-going legendary stride of the state government’s efforts in re- engineering and beautifying Lagos, I must confess that my partnership with the government has been challenging and inspiring too, in all its ramification. But I love it because it has really helped to push out my creative razzmatazz in a startling manner. Honestly, it did and I seized it and used it well,” he said.

Akinlonu

19

FRIday, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Doctor The meals that will kill your sex mood and life

Feminique

Diary of a happening mom When shall we get there?

20 20

Ume-Ezeoke: A wise woman invests heavily in real estate Chukwunonso Ume-Ezeoke is a top-notch realtor and CEO, Assist-2-Sell Properties Ltd. As a lawyer, she was the Head of Chambers, as a banker, she was a bank manager, but she left all that and is now a top realtor who has real estate interests both within and outside Nigeria. She told EBERE AMEH that ‘most of us sit down and wait for business opportunities to fall from the sky. You must go out and search for those business opportunities’

Ume-Ezeoke

I

f as Madeline Albright said, ‘there is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women’, there should also be a special place in heaven for those women who whole heartedly drag other women to the top, and Chukwunonso UmeEzeoke’s place is specially reserved in that paradise. With a strong belief that an empowered woman is an asset to her household, her community and her nation, she has been engaged in a quarterly lady realtor training sessions where she trains and mentors women to take charge of their financial future by going into the real estate business.

She insists that women ought to be empowered to be able to actualize their own potentials and assist their husbands. For her, real estate is the best form of investment because it affords women the opportunity to own a home.

“From birth to age eighteen, a girl needs good parents. From eighteen to thirty-five, she needs good looks.

From thirty-five to fifty-five, she needs a good personality. From fifty-five on, she needs good cash,” Chukwunonso’s

EBERE AMEH ebere.ameh@newtelegraphonline.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

voice echoed as she quoted Sophie Tucker, one of the most popular entertainers in America during the first half of the 20th century, widely known by her nickname ‘The Last of the Red Hot Mamas.’

According to her, “at 55, a woman is approaching retirement, has probably hit the big ‘M’ (menopause), and her best buy days are almost used up.

What does she fall back on to care for the aching knees & back? Her Pensions, her Savings, her Husband, her Children or her Investments? Most of these may fail her, and that is why a wise woman invests heavily in real estate and makes hay while the sun shines,” she intoned.

Beautiful and accomplished yet candid, with no airs, Chukwunonso is ever ready to share the startling story of her life that makes even the most indolent and unenterprising woman wake up to the need to become financially empowered.

Popularly called Nonso by her friends, she was a banker, a branch manager with an official car attached to her office and numerous perks to enjoy. As with bankers, she did not lack designer shoes, bags and clothes. But she got disengaged from work and had a N5500, 000 rent to pay and lots of bill to settle, but had only N17, 000 in her savings.

“As bankers, our wardrobes are filled with fantastic designer shoes and bags but even before the salary comes, we would have written so many postdated cheques,” Nonso teased. “I had to give back the company official car and so, suddenly, from being a chauffeur driven manager, I was back at the bus stop waiting for taxi. It was that bad,”

Real estate is the best form of investment because it affords women the opportunity to own a home

she narrated.

“You think it’s just a story but it happened and it still happens in people’s lives. Women need to take charge of their financial future to avoid falling a victim like me,” she added.

Though she fell a victim of the economic downturn and uncertainties of life, she didn’t remain fallen.

She picked herself up, dusted herself and moved on. Poised and determined, she painstakingly and determinedly climbed the ladder of hard work and success and now, the sky is only but her stepping stone.

“First I went back to law practice.

I got a job in a law firm and from the meagre amount I was paid, I started investing in real estate. I opened my own Law Firm later,” One conquest led to the other and today, Nonso who has a palpable passion for women empowerment is now a world-class realtor with interests in real estates both within and outside Nigeria.

Though there are various classes of investments, which include Real Estate; Money Market (T-Bills, Bonds, CDs, BAs); Capital Market (Stocks); Mutual Funds; Precious Stones & Metals, among others, Nonso insists that the best class of investments remains the Real Estate.

As interesting as that may sound, many women are actually aware of the benefits of real estate investment but are held back by so many factors, which she identified as including: limited mindset with many under the illusion that they earn little and so can’t afford it, and others believing that it is a man’s job; not creating a financial goal; not knowing their networth and ignorance of the workings of the Real Estate sector and how to play in it. Others are perceived weak earnings; setting artificial boundaries and cultural and traditional barriers.

No wonder In 2012, The World Bank stated that, ‘Women perform 66% of the world’s work, produce 50% of the food, but earn 10% of the income & own 1% of the property.’

How come women who are traditionally known as homemakers don’t own homes of their own?, one may wont to ask. Nonso insists that gender inequality and patriarchal societies are the culprits.

“In many countries, men are still

considered the sole breadwinners & are therefore commonly given preferential treatment by varied governmental institutions & private companies,” she explained.

Quoting the Virtuous Woman of Proverbs chapter 31:16, ‘She considers a field (Real Estate) & buys it,’ the real estate guru gives Biblical backing to the reasons every woman should own a piece of property.

According to Powers, Magnoni of Goldman Sachs, to secure credit, borrowers often need to put down collateral. Much evidence suggests that gender differences in ownership of Real Estate, is one of the most influential factors affecting women’s ability to access credit & one of the main reasons for rejection of loans.

“Culturally too, our mothers and grandmothers, here in Africa at least, farmed a land, or nursed a garden, or potted a flowerbed. In terms of security, everyone needs a roof over one’s head or an additional source of income in rentals. Property ownership is a thing of pride, a sign of accomplishment and dividend of hard work.

It provides a hedge against inflation, provides stability in that no matter the economic outlook, property yields appreciable returns consistently, over long periods of time,” she enumerated.

Talking on the best approach to Real Estate investment for women, Nonso noted seven things, which are: outlining the area, determining your comfort zone, noting the key regulators and learning the area. Others are to become an insider, to document ones data and deeds, to recognize opportunities, to inspect properties and to learn to do due diligence.

She identified determination, seeking the correct counsel and professional advice, positive attitude, strong financial goal orientation, selfconfidence, discipline and Real Estate industry knowledge as seven elements that will help women to become successful Real Estate investors.

A mentor to many, Nonso got married recently to her soulmate, Sir Clement Eze in a high society wedding that took place in New Jersey, United States. Despite the added responsibilities of a new family, the amiable lady is waxing stronger, and looking back is what she is not contemplating.

20 FEMINIQUE

FRIday, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

The meals that will kill your sex mood, life

I

have had to answer lots of questions during my counselling sessions about the role of food if any in sexual matters. The answer to this is definitely yes. Food has a great role to play not only in your sex life but as per your health generally.

Take as an example a fat man.

His general health is at risk. The same goes for his sexual health.

The chances are high that his performance in bed will almost be zero. Forget the fact that you see them always surrounded with women. It is all window dressing and shakara. As Fela of blessed memory would say, ‘Na shakara oloje. Dem no fit do’.

So seriously speaking, the type of food you eat can kill your sex life. And at the same time increase and enhance it.

Let us look briefly at those that can kill your sex life.

Top on the list is Beans. Yes I know beans is good for you. It is one of the best sources of plant protein. Beans is specially recommended for those who are diabetic or those whose bodies need a high protein diet.

Fine. I am not saying don’t

Sex and Marriage Counselor drtaiwofadeyi@gmail.com

08033148899

Dr. Taiwo Fadeyi eat it at all. Just avoid it on some special occasions. One of those is when you are going out for that all important date or job interview. Another is when it is likely you will soon jump into bed with your loved one.

By now you should have guessed why. Ok let me tell you before you go astray. It is a three letter word. GAS. Yes Gas. Beans because of its composition releases a lot of gas during and after its digestion in the stomach. Especially for those of us who have digestive system problems.

And the thing can smell. The foul smell of beans gas is distinctive and special. Even the children can easily identify it. They call it iso ewa (beans gas). You can imagine the situ-

ation if during the heat of the moment, you or your partner suddenly release this bomb. Of course, that is the end of the story. To start another one will take time. And might not happen in the foreseeable future.

The second one I need to mention briefly is boiled eggs. The gaseous end product of that one too na war. In fact, there is no better way to kill the sex mood than to release this gas before, or during the show.

The third one is groundnuts.

Boiled or roasted, it doesn’t make a difference. All these might sound funny and unbelievable, but they are true. I once came across a woman at a party who was complaining bitterly that what killed her sex life was Gas. Unfortunately for her, the

Food has a great role to play not only in your sex life but as per your health generally

husband was not really ready to change. So sex for her instead of being an action of mutual enjoyment became a duty, a chore, a cross for her. I hope her husband and all others out there will get to read this piece.

Now enough about gas. After all, we are not in the gas and oil industry. By the way this woman is convinced that one day, the husband’s gas will cause a fire outbreak in their flat. God forbid bad thing.

The fourth one is fried, oily and greasy food. All such food contain trans-fat. This is not an immediate killer. It does its work gradually and silently.

The trans-fat found in all these greasy, oily and fried foods dramatically decrease the male and female libido over time.

The adverse effects of consuming these trans fatty acids also includes an increase in the amount of abnormal sperm production for men and interferes with pregnancy in women. This means that if you are trying to get pregnant, please avoid them like the plague or Ebola.

Ego: Diary of a happening mom Ebere Ameh

I

t wasn’t my first time in the United States, but it was the first time I was taking my time to observe and draw a comparison between the American and Nigerian way of life.

Coming for my IVF appointment that may see me spending more than a month here, I thought, ‘what better way to while away time in between appointments than to gallivant from state to state with Sandra, my lost but found friend, and in the process, get to understand American culture better. I had been in my posh apartment since I arrived two days ago. But Doctor Scotch has the final say though; while I wait for his soon to be issued restrictions, I’ve got to enjoy America while my freedom lasts.

Freedom at last! After all, the US is a country of freedom, a place where everyone and everything, including cats and dogs have freedom. Anyway, who doesn’t know that, when it is conspicuously stipulated in their constitution, and the likes of Martin Luther King Jr, fought and died for it?

I wasn’t alone in that line of thought though. Nnamdi, my former colleague in the office, once told a story of a lawmaker from one of the developing Asian countries who lodged in the same hotel as he did a couple of years ago.

“The man was in the United States for a leadership programme and on his way down from the tenth floor where his room was, he met a young lady in the lift and not only made amorous advances at her, he practically groped her. On getting down, the distraught lady went straight to the front desk and lodged a complaint. Looking visibly surprised, the man did not deny

When shall we get there? the allegation. On the contrary he queried, ‘I thought America was a free country where I could do whatever I liked?’ What happened to him afterward is a story for another day,” Nnamdi told his small audience, provoking an uncontrollable laughter.

Anyways, I found yesterday that no matter the freedom the citizens enjoyed, they also know that it comes with a good dose of responsibility. While coming back in the evening from a shopping spree in a nearby discount shop Sandra and I discovered, we met some guys who were either drunk or high on drugs on a not

so illumined street. I was afraid because if you meet such unkempt and rugged looking guys miming some reggae tunes and skanking on the street at Ojuelegba, you may be in for some harassment, no matter the time of the day.

But Sandra on hearing my concerns blurted out in a mixture of Pidgin and Nigerian English “Dem no fit do anything! Dem go see wetin pass death. Here, you have a right to drink o, but in your drunkenness and homelessness, you dare not exceed your boundary. If you try anyhow you go see anyhow, na so e be for here o,” she concluded with a loud laughter.

“Warri babe! Old habits never change! I thought you have forgotten all that pidgin and should have been speaking through your nose by now,” I joked.

That was how we passed the guys and they were neither unruly nor violent to us, except for one that begged us for a dollar to buy food.

At first it was all funny to me and I kept telling Sandra, who out of frustration in Nigeria, left to settle in the US ten years ago, that ‘We shall get there.’ But at the hospital the next day, I almost wept for my dear country and queried no one in particular ‘When shall we get to this level?

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friday, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Africa Magic, multichoice unveil new head judge for amvca

Kylie Jenner’s ‘lavish birthday gift’ to King Cairo revealed

Brad Pitt disappoints sons with canceled concert

23

Entertainment

:PMAN presidency not for illiterates

‘I love my tits being out’ –Kendall

Charly boy

AFRIFF

announces festival programme for season 6

Mr. Charles Oputa, an icon in the showbiz industry, popularly known as Charly Boy (CB), was the former President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN). He was a presenter both on radio and television. He told Flora Onwudiwe that the problem in PMAN started when mediocrity crept in.

He also spoke on issues affecting the Igbo race

LANRE ODUKOYA COORDINATOR

lanreodukoya@gmail.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Bayo Bankole celebrates six years without smoking

PMAN is not getting it right, what do you think should be done?

Tell me where things are right, even in your family are things right? In Nigeria, things are not right. Look at all the different ministries, are things right? In our state, things are not right.

When mediocrity rules, this is what you get. When square pegs are put in the round hole, this is what you get. When riff raffs have occupied leadership positions, this is what you get. But of course, things are not right, things are not right anywhere.

What went wrong in PMAN, when you left?

When people who are sup-

posed to be in that leadership position, the right people are not there, this is what you get. I keep comparing PMAN and Nigeria.

When you have people that do not go to school and do not have Certificates and made him the president of PMAN, what do you expect? There are certain mental attitudes they can deploy, because you don’t have it. And leadership is about being a good servant, is not about being Lord and Master.

So when you have people whose primary interest is how they are going to enrich themselves and their families, so there is problem? If you are lucky to see somebody who wants to do the right thing, because they want to leave a legacy, then there is a difference. In our time we wanted to leave a legacy. In our time we were the people who fought for the artistes for the big money they are making now. When we said nobody must pay any artistes then less than one million naira, people must respect Nigerian artistes and corporate body cannot be bringing in foreign artistes to the detriment

of our own local super stars. So leadership is about sacrifice. If you have people who can’t make sacrifice on behalf of the people that they are leading, then, that is really nonsense. That is why the Nigerian concept will never work. We don’t elect people but the cabal will form a meeting to decide who rule us. These people who are ruling us, they are from Nigeria, they are not from Ghana, Togo. And if we the people will forever keeping quiet saying we want to play dead, then these nonsense might as well continue for the rest of our lives. Let’s keep suffering now, because until we can hold leadership accountable, what have you done lately, this is not what and what you are supposed to do, we get upset, we go to the street to protest, we shout, we scream. I remember in the 70s when we had the Nigerian students, then it was the military rule and when sometimes some policies and the youths are not happy with it, they hit the road, they rattle the leadership, until C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 2 2

When you don’t have educated people as PMAN president, things will never be right

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entertainment

‘I’ve 16 grandchildren’ C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 1

somebody decided that they were going to ruin those children with corruption and money and that is how our youths are now weak and useless. We are saying that the future belongs to the youths. Which future? Is there any future in the Nigerian project? If the leaders or elders have so far messed up the system to the point that our youths are neither here nor there, so what is the future of Nigeria? My record is there for anybody to go and check what I did and what I did not do. Yes, I could not have gotten everything right. But there was an attempt that was need that strategically position PMAN and I think it worked.

What informed the Njiko Ndigbo carnival?

I’m from Nguta in Imo State where there is blue lake. Four years ago, young people in my town started to act funny.

They started to carry guns; we noticed that cocaine and other illicit drugs had infiltrated our small, but beautiful town. They were even killing people in broad daylight. That’s how that continued till my cousin, Emeka Asieme, a prosperous young man, was kidnapped and killed.

So, that made some people in my town to run away. I spent like 30 years in Lagos. A lot of people have passed through my house, including comedians, musicians and Nollywood actors have passed through me. And I know that I have trained a lot of Nigerian youths and most of the people that I trained were of Yoruba tribe. I cannot remember one single Ibo. It was out of guilt that I went back to fix my hometown. Because, if for nothing that is where I will retire to. How can I retire to that place when it was a war zone?

So that was how the project started.

I now started to meet different groups, including those involved in criminal activities. I started talking to them. The next challenge is what do we do to keep guys positively engage. That is how we started talent hunt, football and the idea of the carnival came.

So the first two years, it was strictly my village thing. I got the NDLEA to help me drive away all the drug people there. So when I saw that my village people were not even as supportive as expected, I had to take the project to another level. That was how Njiko project was born. I said let me lead my people, but I insisted that the location must always be Nguta because of the Lake; the place is like the Bahamas. In the whole Ibo land there is no location like that location.

T

he business and art of filmmaking in Nigeria seem to have suffered avoidable drawbacks for many years and it remains a growing concern for those who should gain but currently groan instead. This explains why some top industry players (from across associations) staged a press conference recently where they dissected the ways forward for professionals to enjoy the good returns from their investments.

The conveners include veteran actor and filmmaker, Chief Eddie Ugbomah, President of Association of Movie Producers (AMP), Ralph Nwadike and Sec. General of AMP, Foster Ojehonmon.

friday, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

The Igbos can never work as a team work that is why they edged out of politics hair dey, my clothes. But Charley boy is not about the looks is a concept. Is about the youthfulness of that brand, they will always be a boy that lives in me and that is the boy called Charley.

I am holding on to that my youth, my choice of friends they are young people and that is why I still even though I am not happy with the youths per se , but I still believe in the youths because I have met exceptional Nigerian youths and I know my job is to probably is to connect the dot. Because the survival of Nigeria still lies in the exceptional youths.

Because all these old mother fuckers they are not going to change. So the only hope we have now is that younger people who have proved and I am one of the first young people to say, you can be different and still be responsible, the fact you are different does not make you irresponsible. Because it is not how things look is the content of the stuff.

And I have met Youths with good contents. So that is what still drives me that there is hope in this country, it is just that they are too far and in between.

Charly Boy

Is the project supposed to be an annual event?

It is supposed to be an annual thing.

It is not just about exhibiting our culture; it is not just about dance. It is about empowering young people, who have nothing to do, who are craving for one sense of direction. Most of the Fathers and mothers these days who have finished Civil Service, where is the pension? Like the people in Imo State, some people are being owed eight months, one year. How are you going to have enough calm in your life to think about sit down and bring up your child properly?, when you are struggling to find food for yourself and school fees for the children, where is the time? So the people who are shouting that they are fighting corruption, they are making the environment more corrupt for decent people to get on. So what is the fight? Even in that fight for corruption against corruption, how many people have you heard that they have been imprisoned, how many people have been reprimanded? So is all a photo tricks, and the sooner Nigerian people can wake up and hit the road. Fela said it, “ because you no wan die your mama dey house your papa dey there” that is what

is keeping us. And I am telling Nigerians, things will never change, until the day we decide to change how we deal with our leadership. How we hold leadership accountable, because they can be going there and impoverishing us.

After all the money that they steal they raise fuel, who does it affect, it does not affect them. They don’t buy fuel, they supply them fuel. Then we that it affect , we just grumble and go home and sleep and wake up the next day and continue the next thing, then something is wrong with us, we are mad people.

What are the topmost strategies that have returned you to the centre stage as Charley Boy, (CB) the brand?

Well Charley boy has not gone anywhere, as you get older, your perception about life will change, like things that excited me 30 years ago cannot excite me now. I am 65, I am not 33. So even at 33, I used to like a lot of women and I did. I started early; I had my first child, when I was 16. I have grandchildren up to 16. If na woman I no go fit pursue woman now , like I been dey pursue when I dey 20, because my Prick no dey rise again, I no get strength, my priorities don change, no be dat one dey worry me. Before, you know as my

What are those things that single you out of the crowd?

I can’t treat that in isolation to other things. It is good to be educated but I will ascribe who I am and what I am today from the teachings of my father, little did I know that he was doing me the biggest favour. When he was whipping and chasing me around, slapping me and beating me when I was a kid, I thought he hated me, I did not know that it was for my own good. And I am happy that before he died, he saw that all those lessons, all what he taught me, it was not a waste. When I was growing up , the little I remember in my childhood days , like adults and elders will come , my father will not say , go to your room. We were allowed to sit with the elders, even though we don’t understand what they were talking about, we were allowed to ask stupid questions, even though we don’t know the import of those questions we were asking , so that form my confidence from that I should fear nobody, but I should respect people.

And if you are intelligent, you are a native chicken I should respect you more.

As you see me here I go with very young , people who are supposed to be my son or my daughters , but I don’t discriminate, I can say I can’t talk to a truck pusher or an area boy. Because in dealing with those group of people, I have learnt quite a lot from them about life

Industry titans task gov on Nollywood survival

Ugboma

Nwadike

At the said conference, a few propositions were highlighted; the censors’ board must immediately call a meeting of marketers importing foreign films into the country, the cinemas showing the films, producers

and stakeholders to a meeting to discuss the growth of the industry.

Adequate funding of the censors’ board to carry out relentless raids on the plants of pirates every month was

advocated whilst also tasking the copyrights commission and the National Broadcasting Commission to be part of raids.

Foreign adverts, apart from foreign films flooding Nigeria should all be censored.

The guild representatives present frowned at the act of proliferating channels showing Nollywood films free of charge, insisting it’s at the detriment of the filmmakers.

Nwadike suggests that only one channel should be allowed to show Nollywood films by the Pay TVs and the film must have been produced two years before airing it free of charge.

He believes that’s the only way the producers would make good

returns from their works before it goes public free of charge.

Ugboma admonishes the government to expedite actions in making policies favourable for practitioners because the world is waiting for African stories which he believes have not been sufficiently told.

He decries the lack of funding of the Lagos State Censors’ Board with a plea to the men in authority to stop blaming negligence on lack of money.

“In India, producers get tax rebate and those who distribute Indian films also enjoy the same benefit, this isn’t impossible to achieve in Nigeria. That is the way to go”, Ugboma admonishes.

entertainment

friday, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

23

Bayo Bankole celebrates six years without smoking

P

After

rolific actor, Bayo Bankole, had called it quit with smoking. He dropped the bad habit when no one noticed and after years of observing the health benefits, the entertainer, led by pure excitement, etched some words about how he fought and won the battle against obsessive smoking on his Facebook wall. He compared with photograph what he looks before and after he quit smoking. His words unedited, “I smoked ha !!! .... God is good, when I looked back then, I say Thank You Lord. Today Mark six years I stopped smoking. How did I stopped, a guy saw me in a party called “Alinco!

Alinco !! Alinco !!! ...” I answered, he called the bar man “pls give my Broda 4 bottles of Gulder... (Turned to me) baba I appreciate you so much” I said thank you” and I brought out my pack of Benson cigarette, about to light a stick and he said to me .... “Baba you smoke? This is not nice now u too much for this” and I said to him “Bros if Na because of Gulder, baba I go finish this four stick wey dey here, if I wake up tomorrow I fit no smoke again”. I woke up the following morning 18th of October 2010 and I never tasted cigarette till date .... To God be the glory”

Hilda Dokubo, Olu Jacob, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Joke Silva at the event

AFRIFF announces festival programme for season 6

T

Before

he annual Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) returns for its sixth year of cinematic celebration with impressive line-up of movie premieres, film screenings, industry sessions, master classes and other festival programmes holding in Lagos, Nigeria, from November 13 to 20.

Announcing the festival programmes at the Intercontinental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos recently, AFRIFF Founder/Executive Director Ms. Chioma Ude said Lagos will, once again, wear the tourism ambiance, playing host to filmmakers and actors from around the world, with over 100 films showing at the newly opened Filmhouse-IMAX and Genesis Cinema, both in Lekki, Lagos.

Ude appeared to have struck the right cord when she announced Nate

Africa Magic, multichoice unveil new head judge for amvca

P

rominent South African filmmakers and media representatives gathered at the Four Seasons Hotel, The WestCliff Hotel in Johannesburg as leading South African filmmaker Desiree Markgraff was officially unveiled as the Head Judge for the 2017 edition of Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCAs), the prestigious initiative that honours film and TV talent across the continent. The 5th annual AMVCA ceremony takes place in Lagos, Nigeria on March 3 and 4, 2017.

Desiree Markgraff is co-owner and CEO of The Bomb Shelter Productions, a leading South African film and television production company. A council member of the NFVF (National Film and Video Foundation) and Chairperson of the NFVF Fiction committee, Desiree has been at the forefront of creating some of South Africa’s most successful television content, including Yizo Yizo, Zone 14, Jacob’s Cross, Isibaya, Ayeye, Amandla, and many more works celebrated around the world.

Speaking on Desiree’s appointment, the CEO of M-Net, Yolisa Phahle said:

“We are delighted to announce Desiree as the Head Judge of the AMVCAs. Desiree brings a wealth of experience and industry knowledge to the role. The AMVCAs is an acknowledgement and celebration of the contribution made by Pan African filmmakers, actors and technicians to the success of the continent’s film and television industries, and we believe the appointment of Desiree further restates our commitment to professionalism and true Pan-African representation at the awards.”

For the 2017 edition, a number of awards in different categories will be presented ranging from acting and directing to scriptwriting and cinematography.

Other categories will include: editing, soundtrack, make-up, sound, and lighting amongst others. There are 27 categories in all, with 16 open to viewers and 11 decided by the AMVCA panel of judges.

Entry is free and the closing date for submissions is October 28.

Also speaking at the event, the Regional Director for M-Net West Africa, Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu said: “Since the first edition in 2013, the AMVCAs have gone on

Parker’s Oscar hopeful, The Birth of a Nation and Izu Ojukwu’s celebrated film on the first Nigerian military coup, ’76 as the opening and closing films respectively, a disclosure which was received with loud ovation.

Canon Europe Ltd, leading provider of digital cameras, and Diageo Nigeria, world’s premium beverage company join the list of resourceful partners and developmental agencies like Ford Foundation, British Institute, Lagos State, Africa Magic, MultiChoice Nigeria, Access Bank, Bank of Industry, Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN), Afrinolly, African Film Consortium (AFC), Filmhouse-IMAX, Genesis Cinemas and Silverbird Group, at the press parley and cocktail launch.

According to the AFRIFF boss, festival guests are up for the best of times during the festival, as all the films in official line-up are products of the

to become the biggest celebration of film and television talent in Africa. The South African movie and television industry is brimming with exciting talent, and we encourage all eligible filmmakers to enter for the 2017 AMVCAs. Entries are currently open and we ask aspiring South African filmmakers to take advantage of the AMVCA platform to showcase their skills and passion to the rest of the world.”

All films, made-for-television movies or television series are eligible for entry if they are broadcast or publicly screened between October 1, 2015 and September 30, 2016. Films, made-for-television movies or television series previously entered into or nominated for an award, or awarded a prize in another film and

new narratives for African cinema and Black films world over.

Speaking on Canon’s partnership with AFRIFF, Managing Director of CCNA, Roman Troedthandl, said: “It is incredible to see how far AFRIFF has come in the past 6 years in terms of receiving acknowledgement within the international film industry. The festival has grown from strength to strength in these years. CCNA is proud to partner with AFRIFF and contribute to this success. We are looking forward to this year’s festival and the world class cinema that will be screened.”

Executive Producer of ‘76, Prince Tonye Princewill who responded from London where the film is being screened at the London International Film Festival said “the honour of our film being chosen to close the Africa International Film Festival cannot be described with words.

television competition, also are eligible to be entered.

The newly announced Head Judge, Desiree Markgraff challenged South African filmmakers, at the event, to take advantage of the entry process and show Africa and the rest of the world the skill and quality inherent in the South African film and TV industry.

“The recognition that the AMVCAs bring to nominated and winning works is immense. Since the inception of the awards in 2013, we have seen the dramatic increase in the quality and quantity of the works entered, and when you are nominated for an AMVCA you know you have gained continental and global recognition.

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entertainment

friday, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Brad Pitt disappoints sons with cancelled concert

P

Cairo

oor Brad Pitt! The actor finally had some quality time with his two oldest sons and was going to take them to see their absolute favorite bands in concert. HollywoodLife.com has the exclusive reason why he cancelled the much anticipated trip at the last minute, leaving the boys brokenhearted.

“Brad Pitt disappointed his older boys this weekend when he was unable to take them to see their favorite punk bands, Offspring and Sublime, in concert in Los Angeles. Pax and Maddox were with Brad at their Los Feliz home over the weekend and super excited about going with their father to see a huge rock and roll show with their dad. Brad promised the two he would take them months prior to his split from Angelina,” a source tells HollywoodLife. com EXCLUSIVELY. The classic 90’s bands played Oct. 15 in a highly anticipated performance at the Irvine Meadows Amphitheater.

“Brad intended on taking the boys too. But at the lastminute by recommendations from his security team, Brad thought it best to stay home, leaving the boys absolutely

crushed,” an insider adds.

Yeah, we can totally see that as it would have been pretty hard for him and his kids to go out unnoticed, and he hasn’t been photographed with his children ever since Angelina filed for divorce. It probably would have created a terrifying paparazzi feeding frenzy!

“The boys are young and are having a hard time understanding everything that is happening with their

parents. They want to know why they can’t just carry on with life normally. They are sad and confused but at least have been able to spend more time with Brad lately and that has been good for all of them,” the source shared. Thank goodness! We know how much he loves and adores his kids and it was absolutely killing him to be apart from them in the weeks since Angie suddenly split from him.

her #FreeTheNipple stance.

“I’m young! When I’m older I want to be able to look at it and be like, ‘I looked good.’”

Well, there’s certainly no dispute about that — Kendall’s always looks amazing!

Although she became a household name on her family’s reality show, Keeping Up with the Kardashians, she admitted that modeling was always her dream. “I was like 10 when I started thinking models were the coolest people in the world,” she said. At the time, Gisele was her favorite model.

Although Kendall went through a tomboy phase she also practiced strutting her stuff ! “I would definitely, like practice a walk that was very bad.”

Kendall worked hard at achieving her dream of being a model and admitted that when she finally got her big break she weirdly wasn’t nervous! “I actually surprisingly was not nervous, not extremely nervous. I was more excited. I think I wasn’t nervous because I was wearing flats. Like, I got to wear, like, flat shoes so it wasn’t as nerve wracking. I was, like, I can’t fall.

There’s no way I can fall,” she said.

The model held nothing back in her new interview, dishing on everything from her first kiss to her girl crush.

Kylie Jenner’s ‘lavish birthday gift’ to King I love my tits being out Cairo revealed –Kendall Jenner W

K

ylie Jenner went all out for King Cairo’s birthday, and you won’t believe the ‘expensive’ gift she got for her boyfriend, Tyga’s son. A source gave details on the extravagant present.

Tyga’s four-year-old son, King Cairo, had a birthday party fit for, well, a king, on Oct. 16. The Ferrari-themed bash came complete with a Ferris wheel, insane car cakes, crazy party favors, a trampoline, an inflatable slide, pony rides and so much more. But what did he get as a present from his dad’s girlfriend Kylie Jenner?

“Kylie’s lavish birthday gift to little King Cairo was the expensive Ferrari themed birthday party,” a source tells HollywoodLife.com. What?! Holy moly, we can’t imagine what Tyga possibly could have gotten his little boy to outdo that.

“She was happy to spoil her boyfriend’s son,” the insider revealed. “Kylie wanted King

to have a memorable birthday party like so many that she had when she was about his age. She helped with the planning, the ideas, the design, everything.”

Wow, that’s a lot of love. “She loved seeing the look on his face when King arrived at the party, it made it all worth it.”

Tyga has reportedly had trouble with money for the last few years. He’s had multiple cars repossessed (including his Ferrari, ironically), and there was a warrant out for his arrest for not showing up in court to settle a lawsuit from his former landlord, who he never paid. Kylie allegedly paid his settlement to keep him out of jail, and now she’s paying for his son too. But it makes sense, little King hangs out with the Dissick kids, North West, and Saint West, who all have over-the-top parties. It would be super sad if he didn’t get one too because Kylie is such a sweetheart.

e’re used to seeing Kendall Jenner step out braless and flash her chest, beneath tiny tops, sheer silhouettes and severe plunging necklines, and now we know why- it’s because it’s totally her ‘thing’. The model revealed why she loves flashing her ‘tits’ in a new interview.

Kendall Jenner, 20, certainly isn’t shy when it comes to showing off, often stepping out in brazenly revealing crop tops, many are just talking about her head-turning street style. The major model is used to stripping down and posing for both photo shoots and on the runway, so obviously she’s comfortable and confident in a variety of outfits — in fact, she was even cool and composed when she flashed her breasts, all while making her modeling debut on the Marc Jacobs runway for the Fall 2014 collection during New York Fashion Week. “My tits were out, I don’t know why I wasn’t nervous about that,” she joked in a new video interview with W magazine. “Actually, I’m weird, I love my tits being out,” she admitted. “It’s like one of my things, I guess,” she joked, quickly justifying

Jenner

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FRIDAY, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Labour FG lauded over planned job centres nationwide

Business

Agric Nigeria, others pledge $30bn investments in continent’s agric

27 28

What's new Recession: ‘One million artisans jobless’

p.26

Nigeria imports N135bn agric equipment in 4 years p.26

L-R: Executive Directors, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Dr. Eberechukwu Uneze, Mr. Aminu Ismail; Chairman, House Committee on Banking and Currency, Hon. Sir Jones Chukwudi Onyereri; Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, AMCON, Mr. Ahmed Kuru and Executive Director, Mr. Kola Ayeye at the just concluded retreat for members of the House Committee in Sokoto State

Report doubts Nigeria’s ability to end hunger by 2030 DEADLINE Country identified among others with serious levels that may not meet the United Nations’ deadline to end malnutrition

Sunday Ojeme

The Business Desk Ayodele Aminu

Deputy Editor (Business)

Bayo Akomolafe

Asst. Editor (Maritime)

Sunday Ojeme

Asst. Editor (Insurance)

Tony Chukwunyem

Asst. Editor (Money Market)

Dayo Ayeyemi Property Editor

Adeola Yusuf Energy Editor

Wole Shadare Aviation Editor

Chris Ugwu

Capital Market Editor

Abdulwahab Isa Finance Editor

A

2016 Global Hunger Index has identified Nigeria as one of the countries with serious hunger potential going by a study carried out on country’s seriousness in tackling food security.

According to the survey conducted by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), over 45 countries are on pace for “Moderate” to “Alarming” Hunger Levels by 2030 UN deadline.

The study revealed that the global community was not on course to end hunger by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal deadline of 2030.

It noted: “Central African Republic, Chad, and Zambia had the highest levels of hunger. Seven countries had “alarming” levels of hunger, while 43 countries –

including high-population countries such as India, Nigeria, and Indonesia – had “serious” hunger levels.

“If hunger declines at the same rate as the report finds it has since 1992, more than 45 countries - including India, Pakistan, Haiti, Yemen, and Afghanistan - will still have “moderate” to “alarming” hunger scores in the year 2030, far short of the goal to end hunger by that year.”

“Simply put, countries must accelerate the pace at which they are reducing hunger or we will fail to achieve the second Sustainable Development Goal,” said IFPRI Director General, Shenggen Fan. “Ending global hunger is certainly possible, but it’s up to all of us that we set the priorities right to ensure that governments, the private sector and civil society devote the time and resources necessary to meet this important goal.”

The report outlined some bright spots in the fight to end world hunger. The level of hunger in developing countries as measured by the Global Hunger Index has fallen by 29 per cent since 2000.

Nigeria’s desire to ensure food security has been anchored on its diversification agenda, a develop-

N34 billion Being the total amount budgeted for agriculture in 2016

ment that has seen a number of the citizens participating in agriculture for self-sustenance.

According to the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, among Federal Government’s plans to increase food production is to install at least 10 earth dams in each state of the federation and dikes in the riverine areas.

He said: “While we rehabilitate existing non-functional ones.

The idea is for fresh food to be available everywhere and every month of the year so we will no longer depend on the rainy season to feed ourselves. In addition, Nigeria has also aligned itself to the Adaptation of Agriculture in Africa – the AAA Initiative designed to tackle the impact of change in climate on food security in Africa.

“The right to food is the right of every human being. Even animals have the right to food. Our policies are designed to guarantee this right. As we encourage Nigerians especially the young people to go into agriculture, we have to ensure that those who want to go into agriculture have machinery.

“To make agriculture attracCONTINUED ON PAGE 26

Taiwo Hassan

Industry, Agric & Brands Editor

Kunle Azeez

Senior Correspondent

Chuks Onuanyin Energy

Nnamdi Amadi Reporter

Johnson Adebayo

Asst Production Editor

Rates Dashboard INFLATION RATE Sept 2016 ..............................17.9% August 2016 ...........................17.6% July 2016...............................17.1%

LENDING RATE Interbank Rate....................12.57% Prime Lending Rate...........17.93% Maximum Lending Rate...26.83%

EXCHANGE RATE (Parallel Market as at October 14)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N460 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N550 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N495

l Foreign Reserves – $24.187bn as at 13/10/2016

Source: CBN

EXCHANGE RATE (Interbank as at October 14)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N305 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N371 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N335

26

BUSINESS |news

FRIDAY, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Recession: ‘One million artisans jobless’ INVASION Foreign artisans from Togo in collaboration with some Nigerian contractors have taken over jobs meant for Nigerians

Dayo Ayeyemi

T

he ongoing recession is taking its toll on Nigerian artisans, as over one million of them had been rendered jobless in the last six months, New Telegraph has learnt.

President, Association of Building Consultants and Artisans of Nigeria (ASBAN), Mr. Jimmy Oshinubi, who disclosed this to our correspondent in La-

Report doubts Nigeria’s ability to end hunger by 2030 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

tive to young people we recognise that this is not the age of hoe and cutlass. We are going to prepare the soil, bring in machinery – tractors and the harvesters, create the dams, and enable proper food processing to minimise post-harvest losses.

“We want to make sure that good seeds are available. We are improving on the blends of fertiliser, so the yields are getting better. We will do more rural roads and rural bridges. So the small scale farmer has an easy way of getting his or her produce to the market. With all that done, I can assure you that in few years, we will be nearly having food surplus not food scarcity.”

Ogbeh had also given assurance that cheaper loans were on their way from the Bank of Agriculture.

According to an earlier report, aggregate credit to the sector by BoA in the last quarter of 2014 stood at N16 billion, representing an increase of N1.1 billion or seven per cent above the level recorded in the preceding quarter, but a massive decrease of N9.2 billion or 36.6 per cent below the level recorded in the corresponding period of 2013.

The decrease is not as much a problem as the volume of credit available compared to demand, which has been abysmal over the years due to weak capacity of the bank.

As part of measures to grow the sector, the Federal Government budgeted N34 billion to ensure the roadmap is successfully implemented.

The GHI, now in its 11th year, ranks countries based on four key indicators: undernourishment, child mortality, child wasting and child stunting. The 2016 report ranked 118 countries in the developing world, almost half of which have “serious” or “alarming” hunger levels.

gos, said the situation is getting worse.

He called on the government to do everything possible to reflate the economy.

Oshinubi said over one million of his members across the country have been rendered jobless due to ongoing economic crisis in the country, as building contractors stopped construction projects they are handling due to capital shortfall.

ASBAN is the umbrella body of block moulders, bricklayers, aluminium fabricators, sand and granite suppliers, carpenters and furniture makers, licensed electrical contractors, house painters, plumbers, welders and tillers.

According to field survey by this newspaper,

many of the artisans, especially bricklayers, tillers and plumbers were idle as at 11.30 am in some junctions such as Iyana Ipaja, Berger , Ikeja and Magboro, waiting for contractors to call them for jobs.

One of them, a bricklayer at Magboro, who identified himself simply as Baba Esther, said the last time he got call for a job was a month ago, stressing that the ongoing harsh economy has suddenly turned many of his colleagues to Okada riders Oshinubi added that the situation got worse with the rise in cement price, noting that people who had been managing to keep their housing projects ongoing just suspended them immediately.

He said: “The situation got worse when cement

manufacturers also jacked up prices of their product last month by 40 per cent increase. This was the final struck that broke the camel’s back.”

Besides, he said people who had earlier wanted to develop property have suspended the project, saying “they are still battling with the payment of children’s school fees.”

Oshinubi added: “The recession is affecting us badly.

There is no job for our members. The rich that used to give jobs are now hiding.

They want to build but are being cautious because of lack of fund. We are just doing maintenance jobs. This involves repairs of water pipe, roof, window and plastering of wall cracks.”

Moreover, the artisan’s

president alleged that foreign artisans from Togo in collaboration with some Nigerian contractors have taken over jobs meant for his members, saying they are undercutting their jobs.

He said: “We have more of these foreigners in Lagos; they moved in to take over our jobs. The impression among Nigerian professional is that foreign workers are better than our members. This is not true, we are better than them,” he said.

“If the government feels they are better, then the authority should up its game by training indigenous artisans. But we all know that they prefer foreign artisans because they are cheap and some contractors used them to cut corners.”

L-R: Representative of the Minister of Information and Culture, Mr. Charles Ojugbana; Managing Director, Skysat Technologies Ltd, Mr. Izzat Debs; Director, Communication, Defence Headquarters, Maj Gen. E O Nze; Representative of the Minister of Industry Trade & Investment, Alhaji Alhaji Aminu Bisallah and Head, South Africa Branch, Konica Minolta, Mr. Tsukasa Uehara, at the opening of 4th Digital Print Exhibition in Abuja yesterday

Nigeria imports N135bn agric equipment in 4 years SETBACK Nigeria has one tractor for every 4,100 farmers

Bayo Akomolafe

N

igerians imported agricultural equipment valued at N135.8 billion ($424.5million) in the last four years, New Telegraph has learnt.

The equipment were shipped to the country between 2012 and 2015. Some of the machines are plough, irrigation sprayers, cutters and shredders, harvester, scrapers, seeders and blowers.

International Trade Statistics (ITS) revealed that in 2012, the country spent $112 million; 2013, $72 million; 2014, $168.5 million and in 2015, $38.05million

was expended on machinery.

Also, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) revealed that the country was one of the least among the mechanised farming countries in the world.

It said that Nigeria needs a minimum of 746, 666 tractors equipped with tillers and other support gadgetry to sufficiently mechanise agriculture in line with the best practices.

However, the organisation said that the country had only 30,000 tractors in 2013, adding 1,000 new ones each year are not enough to replace the ageing, worn out, and broken down ones.

Just last year, the Bank of Agriculture planned to collaborate with six companies to procure 400 tractors and other farming implements for mechanised farming in the country.

It was revealed that the

country has only one tractor for every 4,100 farmers.

Its tractor density is put at 0.27 horsepower per hectare (hp/ hectare).

The oganisation noted that the country was blessed with around 12.3 million farmers, making it the 14th in the world.

Meanwhile, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in its foreig n trade reports said that Nigeria imported a total of N738 billion worth of agricultural products into the country in 2015.

Also, the country imp or t e d N 8 .6 8 t r i l l ion ($43.42 billion) motorcycles, vehicles, tyres and spare parts in the last six years.

During this period, Nigeria imported various vehicles valued at $31.669 billion, tyres and spare parts gulped $6.279billion, while motorcycles were $5.465 billion.

According to information obtained from the National Automotive Council (NAC), Nigeria was spending N600 billion on vehicles importation.

It noted that about 50,000 new and 150,000 used vehicles were imported into the country yearly.

Also, NAC added that some tyres and threads of f laps and inner tubes valued at, $1.132 billion in 2010; $1.051billion; 2012, $1.005 billion and 2013, $1.312 billion were shipped into the country.

The council stressed that motor cycles gulped $898 million in 2011; $1.021billion in 2012 and $1. 12billion in 2013.

The council noted that the current market demand for new and used vehicles was 400,000 annually, noting that N260 billion was being spent to import tyres and spare parts annually.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

27

LABOUR

FG lauded over planned job centres nationwide UNEMPLOYMENT Lack of comprehensive data has kept so many Nigerian graduates out of employment for years

Stories: Sunday Ojeme

T

he decision by the Federal Government to create job centres in all local government areas across the country has been commended by some unemployed Nigerians and those in private business.

The respondents, in a chat with New Telegraph, described the initiative as a positive step towards getting actual data of those who are out of jobs.

They also observed that the centres would enable the Federal Government disburse loans in any form appropriately to those who actually deserve such as those managing the centres would be closer to the job seekers.

Speaking on the initiative, a graduate of Mathematics, Mr. Charles Uyong, who said he was yet to be employed since he left school three years ago, pointed out that the decision by the government was a positive display of seriousness to get information on job seekers in the grassroots.

He said: “What the government has done is good. If the process is not abused I believe everybody would be well rep-

L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Fidelis Ayebae; Chairman, Felix Ohiwerei and Company Secretary, Yomi Adebanjo, at the 17th Annual General Meeting of Fidson Healthcare Plc in Lagos.

resented and eventually benefit from the system. The idea of centralizing everything in Abuja or the state capital is not too good. In such cases, even when there are vacancies, how do you expect a jobless person to travel all the way to Abuja when he had not earned money at all?”

He, however, said that as much as the initiative was commendable, the government should ensure that the process is not abused by those authorised to handle the process as this “will be taking us back to square one.”

On his part, Mr. Uche Felix, who has resorted to petty trad-

ing after searching for job endlessly, also hailed the initiative.

He, however, expressed fears that the arrangement might go the same way as others that have been abused.

“As far as I am concerned, the thing will go the same way like other government arrangements whereby those put in charge end up using system to favour themselves and those close to them. The action of the government is well intended but we know what happens afterwards. But I pray it works out,” he noted.

Last Tuesday, the Federal Government said it would locate job centres in all local

government areas across the country before the end of March next year.

The centres will be used to gather data on the actual number of unemployed persons in Nigeria.

According to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Dr. Paul Adalikwu, the centres will address the lack of data for unemployed persons in Nigeria as no one seems to know the exact number of jobless people across the country.

Adalikwu, who revealed this while speaking on Nigeria’s Unemployment Challenge, at the 48th Annual National Con-

However, following the intervention of the Ogun State House of Assembly, the paramount rulers in the state, and other monarchs as well as respectable and eminent citizens, across the state, the organised resolved to suspend the strike action with immediate effect as mark of respect for the above mentioned institution and the prominent personalities.

The suspension was to give room for negotiations between labour and the state government within 14 days.

In the current dispensation, the leadership of the unions, Abiodun Olakanmi, Olubunmi Fajobi and Akeem Ambali, said the workers would resume the strike, unless the state government met their demands and honoured various agreements reached in the course of the dispute.

The workers are asking the government to immediately pay outstanding 12 months unions check off dues, stop contributory pension deductions, and pay 12 months of other deductions, which in-

clude bank loans’ repayment, co-operatives’ savings, Ileya/ festivals savings and gradual payment of retirees gratuities.

Olakanmi said: “Without the state government attending to these demands, the industrial action we are embarking on come Thursday (today) will not be called off nor be suspended.

“We view the inaction of the Ogun State Government as being deliberate, calculative and designed to make the civil servants poorer.”

ference of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria in Abuja, said: “For the first time in Nigeria that process is being perfected and precisely by the first quarter of next year we are going to have the processes put in place where unemployed graduates can register their data for proper planning and coordination across the country. So by the first quarter of next year we will have our job centres in all local governments in Nigeria.”

Jirgi is fellow of NIM

T Strike: Ogun workers set to defy traditional rulers, others T he industrial action being called by the leadership of labour unions in Ogun is likely to ground the state for months, as the union leaders would no longer succumb to intervention by traditional rulers, elders and lawmakers.

The workers, who suspended their initial 10-day strike in March after the intervention of leaders in the state, on Tuesday, announced that it would be embarking on a total strike action beginning from yesterday (Thursday).

The earlier suspension was said to have been due to the intervention by some traditional rulers, the state lawmakers, retired heads of service and permanent secretaries.

In the previous strike, the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council in conjunction with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) had called on workers to shun work following the failure by the state government to address their grievances, including salary deductions, contributory pension and issues about gratuity.

Chibok girls: TUC lauds Swiss govt, others

F

ollowing the safe release of some Chibok girls from the clutches of Boko Haram, the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has commended the Switzerland Government, the Federal Government of Nigeria and International Red Cross organisation for the feat.

While charging Nigerians to put politics aside and commend those who made the release possible, the union, in a statement, observed that the action was worthy of celebration.

It quoted the president of

TUC, Bobboi Bala Kaigama, as saying that the experience of Nigeria, as a country in the last few years, has not been a good one, as it had suffered politically in terms of leadership and also economically.

Kaigama reiterating the desire to have the remaining girls released, stressing that that life was not a commodity that can be purchased on the neatly arranged shelves of malls anywhere in the world.

It added: “It is sacred and should be treated as such. The issue of swapping or not does

not arise here. Only God gives life, sadly we have lost over 30, 000 lives and properties worth billions of naira since the insurgency began in the northeast. This must not be allowed to continue.”

He stressed that hope had been renewed by the release of the first batch of the girls.

TUC further noted that beyond ensuring the remaining are back, the government must address the root cause of insurgency in the country by providing enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

he Governing Council of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria has approved Fellowship Award of the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Triple Cree Media Limited, Abuja, Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammed Jirgi.

A statement signed by the Registrar of the Institute, Mr. Sidney Ogode, which was available to newsmen, said that the fellowship grade as the institute’s highest grade of membership confers the Jirgi the use of FNIM after his name.

Jirgi who was born on May 12, 1962 in Potiskum town in Potiskum Local Government Area present day Yobe State, is a an accomplished journalist, a professional marketer a grassroots politician, a businessman and a public spirited philanthropist of no mean repute.

His journalistic journey started even while he was in secondary school until he joined the Daily Times and went through several news reporting and news casting jobs with several national and international news media in both the print and electronic.

In 2001 he obtained a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Public Relations/Advertising from Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) and in 2005 a Post-graduate Diploma in Public Relations/Advertising from the University of Maiduguri.

28 Taiwo Hassan

P

rospects for agriculture in Africa took a huge boost recently, as prominent leaders, business people and major development partners in the continent pledged more than $30 billion in investments to expedite transformation of the sector.

The commitments were made at the official opening of the Sixth African Green Revolution Forum (AGRF) in Nairobi, Kenya, that attracted more than 1,500 influential figures from 40 countries for three days of brokering new agricultural initiatives.

The collective pledges at the African Green Revolution Forum in Nairobi, Kenya, mark a major breakthrough in efforts to transform agriculture, the mainstay of the economies of most of African countries, to become the key driver of growth.

The pledges believed to represent the largest package of financial commitment to agricultural sector in Africa to date, will be directed to increase production, income and employment for small scale farmers and local African agricultural businesses over the next 10 years.

The historic investments represent just the first wave of support for the new ‘Seize the Moment’ campaign one backed by the African Union Commission, the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), the African Development Bank, the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa

AGRIC

Nigeria, others pledge $30bn investments in continent’s agric

Tractor in a farm

(AGRA), key Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs), companies and donor countries.

While agriculture in Africa has seen significant progress in the last 10 years, the ‘Seize the Moment’ campaign.

This depicts a frank acknowledgement that much more is needed for African countries

Group warns FG on threats of climate change, others Caleb Onwe ABUJA

A

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

group of young farmers under the aegis of African Young Farmers Association (AYFA), has tasked the government on the need to be more proactive in handling the threats of climate change to food security.

They made this call at a press conference addressed in Abuja, as part of activities to commemorate the World Food Day, with the theme: ‘Climate is changing. Food and agriculture must too.’

The group highlighted areas of need for action, stressing that all stakeholders must focus on food and agriculture to avert unprecedented hunger.

The National President of AYFA, Comrade Bakare Oladimeji, noted that the world “change” is very symbolic in the theme, given the fact that it is the foundation stone of the present administration’s political ideology.

He said given the ever growing global population projected to hit 9.6 billion by 2050, stakeholders in the agric sector need to make commitment to ensure that agriculture and food systems adapt to the adverse effects of climate

change.

“There is no gainsaying that the vast majority of the Nigerian population constitutes the farmers, fishers and pastoralists.

Undoubtedly, these are being hit hardest by higher temperatures and an increasing frequency in whether- related disasters. Putting this together, one will clearly see why the issues bothering on climate change should be accorded deserving attention if we are genuinely addressing the problems of poverty and hunger in Nigeria”, he said.

To tackle the menace of climate change effectively and ensure food security, the group also tasked the government on the need for increased budgetary allocation to agriculture.

It also maintained that prudent management of funds allocated for public programmes and projects was very imperative.

On the challenges being encountered by farmers and agriculture entrepreneurs, the group called on the governments at all levels to make and implement policies that will create an enabling environment for investments that will bring development to the sector, as well as resolve the challenges.

to achieve inclusive economic development and ultimately realise the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The campaign is a decisive push for the political, policy and financial commitments essential to transform Africa’s

agricultural sector.

The goal is to make agriculture a new era of business opportunities for the 70 per cent of African population that depend on farming for food and income, yet too often face poverty and poor nutrition.

Minister tasks veterinary doctors on vaccine production Caleb Onwe ABUJA

T

he importance of veterinary medicine in developing the livestock unit of the agric sector cannot be ignored, Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has said.

He disclosed this while receiving a delegation of Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association during a courtesy call to his office in Abuja.

The minister explained that to combat diseases such as Avian influenza, which have stalled the growth of livestock in the country, the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association needs to upscale its drive in the production of vaccines.

Lokpobiri also added that for the government to achieve a sustainable food security in the country, more funding is required to support vaccine production in commercial quantity.

“For us to achieve the objective we have laid down to achieve, we need more funding. If the Veterinary Council of Nigeria and your association intensify more efforts in vaccines production, we will be able to control or combat the spread of Avian Influenza and other deadly diseases,” he said.

The minister commend the collaboration that exist between the Veterinary Council of Nigeria and the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association and gave assurance that the Ministry would work closely with them to complement their efforts in the provision of standard abattoirs, cattle grazing and other identified problems.

On the need to have an acceptable legal framework that will aid the operations of the association for more optimal performance, the minister promised to direct the Director, Legal Department in the ministry to work with the association in reviewing relevant laws.

Earlier in his remarks, the National President of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Edgar Amos Sunday, who led the delegation, said that his association had made various contributions towards the development of the nation’s agricultural sector, especially, in the containment of livestock and zoonotic diseases, curbing of cattle rustling and herdsmen/farmers clashes among others.

Sunday, however, harped on the need to review laws that have implications for veterinary service delivery and livestock development in the country.

He said: “This should aim to repeal obsolete sections and insert new ones to suit contemporary realities.”

BUSINESS \ AGRIC

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

29

Mimiko disburses N23.9m loans to farmers in Ondo INTEREST RATE Govt says agric loan is at a single interest rate of 2.5% for a period of two years

L-R: Acting Executive Director Agricultural and Rural Management Institute (ARMTI), Ilorin, Dr. Oladunni; Provost, Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, Dr. Samson Adeola Odedina; Project Consultant, Prof.

Placid Njoku and Migration Officer, Switzerland Embassy, Mrs. Jolanda Pfister Herren at the national stakeholders meeting on capacity building for agricultural education in Nigeria (CBAEN) project in Abuja.

Babatope Okeowo AKURE

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overnor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State has disbursed N23.9 million to 70 young agro-farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs as support to start their own agricultural ventures.

The loans ranged from N250, 000 to N500, 000 per each beneficiary for a period of two years, The beneficiaries’ original degree certificates and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificates were used as collateral.

The disbursement coincided with marking of 2016 World Food Day titled: “Climate is Changing, Food and Agriculture Must too.”

Mimiko, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Kola Ademujimi, during the disbursement of the agricultural credit facility in Akure, Ondo state, said the loan was at a single interest rate of 2.5 per cent and for a period of two years with a moratorium period of six months.

He explained that the gesture was in line with his administration’s re-

solve to support micro and small businesses in the state.

According to him, “This administration through Ondo State Micro Credit Agency (OSMA) has disbursed about N3 billion under different schemes, targeting market women, artisan groups and small businesses.

“Over N1.5 billion was disbursed directly by the state government and another N1.4 billion had been dis-

bursed under the ODSG/CBN MSME loan scheme,” he added.

Mimiko charged the beneficiaries to use the funds judiciously and for its purpose, saying that all funds given would be repaid because there was monitoring team already put in place to ensure such repayment.

The governor urged those that could not benefit from the disbursement not to be discouraged, assuring them that another batch of disburse-

NEPAD advocates economic diversification through agriculture

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or Nigeria to effectively diversify her economy, emphasis must be placed on agriculture, the National Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer, New Partnership for Africa’s Development, Mrs. Gloria Akobundu, has said.

The agency’s new CEO disclosed this during her maiden press briefing in Abuja.

She noted that the organisation had identified four major areas upon,

which it would launch a new approach to achieve its objectives.

According to her, NEPAD under her leadership will push for economic diversification through agriculture in order to ensure food security and reduce the restiveness in different parts of Nigeria.

Akobundu said, “These areas include economic diversification with emphasis on agriculture and food se-

Agric firm promises quality poultry foods Stanley Ihedigbo

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he management of Natnudo Foods Limited, has promised to be more committed to Nigeria’s agricultural development in terms of quality poultry production for food security in the country.

Representative of the company and its marketing manager, Ms. Ophylia Ibekwe, said this while receiving CICAN award as the Best Indigenous Poultry Production Company.

She said the award was an encouragement for the company to do more for the country in terms of agricultural development particularly live stock processing and poultry production.

Ibekwe commended the organisers of the award, saying that it showed that the company’s activities across the country were been monitored especially by the media and the government.

She said the company, which was known for its best in egg and frozen chicken production, has also engaged in youth empowerment programme through its entrepreneurial scheme tagged ‘natnuPreneur’.

“We shall continue to improve on our offerings through continuous research and subscribing to global best

practices in the food processing industry.

“Innovation is at the very core of what we do hence, our plan to introduce new product lines that will delight our customers and meet their needs for healthy protein food product,” she said.

She, however, gave assurance that the company in anticipation of boosting food production would soon launch few other animal protein varieties.

Speaking on the World Egg Day being celebrated worldwide, the company’s marketing manager said the company is very particular about nutrition in respect to consumption of at least an egg a day, which is why Natnudo supper eggs are fortified with selenium, which is good for overall well-being and human health.

She therefore, advised that growing children should consume at least an egg a day to have smarter brain as they grow up.

Ibekwe also advised the Federal Government to make sure that eggs in school feeding programme continues.

She appealed to the government to prioritise its supports for agricultural value chain to reduce unemployment and increase quality food production for the country.

curity; rethinking and realigning our engagements with development partners and other parts of the world in line with the reality of dwindling oil revenue and receipts.”

She also spoke about the plan to rebrand and relaunch NEPAD Nigeria “for greater meaning and efficacy in the lives of our people.”

The NEPAD boss observed that the agency’s vision, as encompassing as it appeared, might not have envisioned all the current realities.

These realities, she said, “have come as a result of our growing population, new habits, problems like Boko Haram insurgency and the Niger Delta armed struggle, all of which have left various fallouts that have left us with an army of Internally Displaced Persons, the maimed, homeless and the like.”

Akobundu added, “All of these are what we seek to address in our new approach so that the vision of NEPAD will make meaning to the grassroots, to the trader or artisan in Monday Market of Maiduguri, Alaba Market of Lagos and even in Ochanja Market of Onitsha.”

She explained that NEPAD’s vision at inception was to establish a veritable framework for the development of Nigerians in different sectors and areas of national life, ranging from trade and investment to the development of infrastructure across the country.

“It is not part of my mandate here to question what we have achieved in the years gone by since this partnership was set up in the early 2,000.

What will occupy me in the months and years ahead will certainly be what we can do to leverage our common efforts to make NEPAD better,” Akobundu said.

ment would be carried out soon.

He said that the government would continue its roles by providing necessary enabling environment and support for farmers to operate.

The Chairman of WECA, Mrs Bolanle Olafunmiloye, said the loan was to support small holder farmers, as they were the keys to food security.

He said that it was another milestone of continuous mission to engage the youth productivity and transform them into wealth creators and employers of labour using the agricultural sector as a vehicle.

She added that the agency has a mandate to develop a new crop of young professional farmers and entrepreneurs that would use agriculture as a tool for wealth creation in the state.

Her words: “The agency established four agro business cities in three senatorial districts in the state and set up agricultural processing centres in Akure. Since inception, over 2,500 youths have benefitted from this programme.”

According to her, 630 graduates have also benefitted from Pro farmers and Agropreneurs Sustainable Scheme (PASS) since its inauguration in 2014 by Governor Mimiko.

She noted that the beneficiaries, who were trained for 12-18 months were given between N10,000- N30,000 and profit from sales of agricultural products.

The chairman stated that the agency has variety of products, which are specially produced and has WECA logo such as: ‘eja WECA’, ‘Adiye WECA’, ‘Agbado WECA’; ‘Ege WECA’, Eyin WECA’ and WECA beef from the programme, saying other products would soon be added.

Olafunmiloye said that the state through WECA has the best government-driven strategy and programmes for youths in agriculture and agri-business in the country.

Two of the beneficiaries, Kayode Oni, a graduate of Sociology and Anthropology 2011 at Obafemi Awolowo, University, Ile –Ife who got N350,000 and Mrs Grace Oni, a graduate of Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti who got N250,000, said it was a rare privilege.

They added the fund would enable them start their poultry business and maize plantations respectively.

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ENVIRONMENT WATCH

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

MASSIVE Whopping 15,000 tonnes of garbage is being generated in the metropolis daily

Stories: Dayo Ayeyemi

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nvironmental experts have urged the government to redouble its efforts in waste collection across the metropolis by taking a cue from the management New York City that has embraced modern recycling an alternative method.

They made this call in the latest report entitled: “The Waste Showdown.”

Noting that here has been a huge gap in waste collection in Lagos, they called on the government to partner experts for better results.

They said: “In fact, there is the need for an elaborate and standardised regulation of the environment in Lagos State in line with international best practices, while taking cue from locations such as the United Arab Emirates, Tanzania, Kenya, Namibia, and New York City in the United States.”

Despite huge the achievements recorded by the Lagos State government in the areas of tree planning and greening project in the metropolis, the ugly site of Olusosun dumpsite at Ojota is an eyesore in the eyes of first time visitors.

This is due to the site’s unsanitary condition and large population of scavengers coupled with offensive odour

Olusosun refuse dump site, Ojota, Lagos

Experts to Lagos: Focus more on waste mgt oozing out of the dump hill to the detriment of nearby residents and passers-by. It is not only Olusosun dumpsite that is in this terrible condition; other sites in the metropolis are calling for attention.

Waste management in Lagos has continued to be a great challenge in spite of several efforts put in place by successive governments in the state. The agency of government in charge, Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), had in the past explored several measures such as the use of private sector players (PSP) to manage waste in the metropolis.

NCF mulls support for Green Recovery Initiative

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overnment, corporate organisations and individuals have been urged to support the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) in its Green Recovery Nigeria Initiative.

Speaking during this year’s edition of Walk for Nature organised by NCF in conjunction with Lagos State Ministry of the Environment, President of NCF, Chief Philip Izoma Asiodu, advised all stakeholders to support the organisation in the drive towards the recovery of the lost forest cover in the nation.

Nigeria has the highest rate of deforestation in the world according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Between 2000 and 2005, the country lost 55.7 per cent of its primary forests and the rate of forest change increased by 31.2 per cent to 3.12 per cent per annum.

The theme of this year celebration is “Protect Wildlife, Protect our Heritage.”

While commending corporate organisations and the governments that have shown

commitments to forest recovery and protection of ecosystem, Asiodu called for measures to halt illicit trade and trafficking in wildlife parts in Nigeria, According to him, illicit trade and trafficking in wildlife parts has pushed most wildlife species to the brink of extinction, adding that currently, some wildlife species that render valuable services in the ecosystem and contribute to the sustainability of the environment have been pushed to the brink of extinction, with many on the list of critically endangered species.

He said: “A case in point is that of Africa’s vulture species, which are now at a higher risk of extinction according to the latest assessment of birds carried out by Birdlife International.

“The elephants, too, are hapless victims of wildlife trade. It is estimated that one elephant is hacked down every fifteen minutes, making it urgent for countries to close their domestic elephant ivory trade routes and markets that are fueling this cruel act.”

However, due to ageing equipment that PSP operators deploy, sharp practices by cart pushers, and sorry state of the waste dump sites, effective waste management still remains a challenge.

Aside struggling with disposal of enormous amount of waste generated daily, the environmentalists in the report said that the government has not been able to effectively collect its waste.

“This is exemplified as waste littering roadsides, waste being disposed into drainages, overflowing public bins among several others,” they said.

To prevent major break of epidemics, the report urged that newer methods of collection would need to be explored by the government to effectively handle the huge waste generated in the megacity.

“Other collection agencies

need to be employed as it is obvious that the PSP operators alone can’t handle the massive amount of waste,” said the report.

Lagos, with estimated population of 15 million generates a whopping 15,000 tonnes of garbage daily and receives immigrants almost on a daily basis from other parts of the country and beyond.

In a bid to achieve better results, LAWMA has also attempted managing waste through characterisation, improved technology and partnering with other nations.

Briefing journalists recently, Commissioner for Environment in Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Adejare, said that the government was committed to building new engineering landfills in line with best global practice.

It would also be recalled that the state government-

owned recycling plant situated at the Olusosun Landfill site at Ojota, commenced full capacity operation with several installed odour neutralisers and mobile atomizers five years ago .But the dumpsite has degenerated since then.

Drawing comparism between effective way of waste collection in Lagos and New York, the new report stated that statistics has shown that only 60 per cent of the daily waste collected in New York go to the landfills compared to Lagos’ 95 per cent .

“While New York can boast of about 120 landfills, which are being used to the optimal capacity, Lagos has only six landfills.” the report noted.

Lagos’ six landfills, the study said were grossly inadequate for Lagos considering that fact that it generates approximately the same amount of waste as New York.

Group seeks more finance for climate change, agriculture

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s the world leaders warm up for United Nations (UN) Climate Change Conference, COP 22, next month in the city of Marrakech, Morocco, Oxfam, an international organisation, has called on world leaders to meet up with their commitments in terms of providing the finances they promised last year at the COP in Paris.

Besides, the organisation is appealing to the governments at all levels in Nigeria to invest between 15 and 20 per cent of their budget into agriculture in 2017 to achieve a sustainable diversification of the economy away from oil.

Speaking at 2016 Female Food Hero, ‘Ogbonge’ Award” Day, held in Markudi, Benue State, Oxfam Head of Programmes, Mr. Constant Tchona, noted that climate change is already hitting hard on Nigerians and many other

developing countries, stressing that the most vulnerable were women.

According to him, climate change is increasingly making it more difficult for women to access means of production such as land, pointing out that women are becoming more vulnerable to violent conflicts that often ensue from competing over scarce resources.

In some parts of Nigeria, he noted that climate change has forced people to migrate from their communities, destroyed crops and infrastructures such as schools and roads.

Tchona said: ”Many incidences of farmers and herdsmen conflict is a clear manifestation of the impact of climate change on environmental resources, which is occurring almost on a daily basis in many parts of the

country.

“In February 2016 alone, over 300 people sadly lost their lives over herdsmen and farmers conflict right here in Benue State. This is a conflict over scarce resources – over green pasture! Unfortunately, the reality is that these pockets of conflicts will continue to rise if adequate attention is not given to climate change, he said.

Wife of the Benue State Governor, Mrs. Eunice Ortom, stated that food security should be a top priority for every nation.

“We believe that agriculture is one of the key activities that Nigerians, particularly women should adopt for their social and economic good. A society, which cannot feed itself cannot boast of any economic growth, peace and happiness or meaningful progress,” she said.

31

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

AutoBeat

CES 2017: Nissan debutes in Las Vegas Paul Ogbuokiri

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issan has announced it will make its debut at next year’s CES 2017 scheduled to hold in Las Vegas.

CES is a

global consumer electronics and consumer technology tradeshow that takes place every January in Las Vegas Nevada.

Nissan Chairman and CEO

Carlos Ghosn will at the tradeshow deliver a keynote on January 5, 2017 at Westgate Theatre in Las Vegas.

During his keynote, Ghosn will provide insights on how Nissan Intelligent Mobility

is enabling the organisation realise its vision of the future.

He will also announce several technology advancements and partnerships that will benefit consumers.

“I’m pleased that Nissan will be taking the CES stage at this moment of significant change and opportunity for the automotive sector. Nissan has a history of developing breakthrough technologies that have transformed how cars

Nissan X Trail 2015

Ford to suspend F-150

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n a fresh sign of pressure on U.S. automakers, Ford Motor Co. on Monday said it will shut down production of its best-selling F-150 pickup truck for a week at a Kansas City assembly plant, and temporarily idle three other plants over the next several weeks.

The F-150 is the best-selling vehicle model in North America, and a key profit-maker for Ford. U.S. sales of the F series are up 5.5 per cent this year but deliveries fell 2.6 per cent in September. Ford dealers had a heavy 95 days' supply of the pickups on their lots at the end of September, according to data compiled by Automotive News.

F-150 production at the Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan will continue without interruption, Ford said.

About 13,000 Ford hourly workers will be laid off during the temporary shutdowns. There are nearly

Ford Explorer 2016

14,000 workers at the four plants, the company said. Some of them are salaried managers. Of the layoffs, about 4,000 will be in Mexico and about 9,000 in the United States. The cuts will hit Ford's three highest-volume models in the United States.

"During our second quarter financial call, we said we expected the overall retail industry to decline in the second half of the year from the same period last year. We also said to expect to see some production adjustments in the second half -- this is one of them. We continue matching production to meet demand," Ford spokeswoman Kelli Felker said.

Ford is also suspending production of two crossovers, the Ford Escape and the Lincoln MKC, at its Lou-

isville Assembly Plant in Kentucky for two of the next three weeks. The compact Escape, one of Ford's most popular models, is under increasing pressure from Japanese rivals. U.S. sales of the Escape fell 12 per cent in September and have edged up 0.8 per cent for the year.

Ford said it also is temporarily shutting two plants in Mexico. One is a plant in Hermosillo that makes the Ford Fusion and the Lincoln MKZ sedans, and the other is in Cuautitlan that builds the Ford Fiesta small car.

U.S. sales of all three models have slipped this year amid an overall slump in car demand.

Ford warned investors last month that its profits would decline next year, and lowered its 2016 pretax profit forecast to $10.2 billion from at least $10.8 billion because of a charge in the third quarter for an expanded vehicle recall.

U.S. workers with more than one year of experience will get about 80 percent of their normal paycheck during the shutdowns, combining state unemployment benefits and Ford supplemental pay, Ford said. The company did not immediately have details on compensation for idled workers in Mexico.

are powered, driven, and integrated with wider society. We look forward to presenting our vision on how the technologies of today are the building blocks for a future with zero emission vehicles and zero fatalities on the road,” said Carlos Ghosn Nissan Chairman and CEO. Of late Nissan have made various strides in the automotive sector in terms of utilising technology to enhance consumer experiences. These strides have led to Nissan’s focus on improving autonomous driving and Nissan Intelligent Mobility. Nissan Intelligent Mobility encompasses three core areas of innovation that inspire how Nissan cars are powered, driven, and integrated into society: •Nissan Intelligent driving gives customers more confidence through increased safety, control, and comfort for everyone on board. Similarly, •Nissan Intelligent Power makes driving more exciting by making it cleaner and more efficient •And Nissan Intelligent Technology keeps customers more connected by conveniently linking Nissan cars to the wider society.

Tucson, Genesis move up

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he J.D. Power 2016 U.S. Tech Experience Index StudySM, has named the Tucson and Genesis highest in overall customer experience with vehicle technology in the SUV and midsize premium segments.

The inaugural study measures owner experience, usage and interaction with driver-centric vehicle technology.

Each model outperformed the competition in their respective segments, with Tucson ranking the highest in six evaluation categories – collision protection, comfort and convenience, driving assistance, entertainment and connectivity, and navigation. The Genesis outperformed 20 other vehicles to rank highest in its competitive segment.

“Advanced safety and convenience technologies are top of mind for many drivers, and we are thrilled that our models are exceeding expectations in these crowded segments,” said Mircea Gradu, Director of Engineering & Quality, Hyundai Motor America. “From being among the first to implement and standardize leading safety technologies, Hyundai Motor is committed to providing better technological solutions for a better owner and driver experience.”

Mircea Gradu, Director of Engineering & Quality, Hyundai Motor America, accepts 2016 U.S. Tech Experience Index trophies for the Tucson and Genesis from Mike Battaglia, Vice President of Automotive Retail Global Automotive Practice, J.D. Power.

2016 Hyundai Tucson SUV SE

32

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

EXHORTATION

Islam UNDERSTAND YOUR FAITH

FAsting on 11 th of Muharram QUESTION Why do the fuqaha’ regard it as mustahabb to fast on the eleventh (of Muharram) as well as ‘Ashoora’?

ANSWER CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK

The scholars also mentioned another reason for it being mustahabb to fast on the eleventh, which is to be on the safe side with regard to the tenth day, because people may be mistaken in sighting the new moon of Muharram, and it may not be known exactly which day is the tenth. So if the Muslim fasts on the ninth, the tenth and the eleventh, then he will have fasted ‘Ashoora’ for certain. Ibn Abi Shaybah narrated in al-Musannaf (2/313) from Tawoos (may Allah have mercy on him) that he used to fast one day before it and one day after it, for fear of missing it.

Imam Ahmad said: whoever wants to fast ‘Ashoora’ should fast on the ninth and the tenth, unless there is some uncertainty about the months, in which case he should fast for three days. Ibn Sireen said that.

Thus it becomes clear that it is not correct to describe fasting three days as being an innovation (bid‘ah).

But if a person misses fasting on the ninth, and he fasts only on the tenth, there is nothing wrong with that, and it is not makrooh.

But if he adds the eleventh to it, that is better.

Al-Mardaawi said in alInsaaf (3/346): It is not makrooh to single out the tenth for fasting, according to the correct view.

Shaykh Taqiy ad-Deen (Ibn Taymiyah) agreed that it is not makrooh.

“O you who believe, persevere and endure and remain stationed and fear Allah that you may be successful.”

(Quran 3:200) 20 Muharram 1438

How crusaders’ plot to bomb US mosque was foiled - Justice Department PLEA Council on AmericanIslamic Relations pleads with government to step up protections for mosques as hate attacks surge Adeola Yusuf

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hree men; Curtis Allen, Gavin Wright, and Patrick Stein, who are members of crusaders, a militia group in United States, “conspired to use a weapon of mass destruction to detonate bombs at a mosque in an apart-

ment complex in Garden City, Kansas, where Somali immigrants live and worship,” the US Justice Department said.

They were arrested last Friday in connection with the plot.

“The attack was planned for the day after election day,” US Attorney Tom Beall said at a press conference.

The men planned to release a manifesto they hoped would “wake people up,” Beall said. The three men were part of a militia that referred to itself as the Crusaders, investigators said.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations responded to the charges, asking the federal government to step up protections for mosques.

“Given this alleged plan to attack a Kansas mosque, the two

other hate incidents reported last Friday against Islamic institutions in Michigan and New Jersey, and the overall spike in anti-mosque incidents nationwide, state and federal authorities should offer stepped-up protection to local communities,” executive director, Nihad Awad, said in an emailed statement to Business Insider.

“We ask our nation’s political leaders, and particularly political candidates, to reject the growing Islamophobia in our nation,” he added.

The FBI had been tracking the men since February as part of an eight-month investigation that revealed a “hidden culture of hatred and violence,” Beall said.

The men’s plot appeared to be premeditated as they conducted

surveillance on potential targets and stockpiled firearms and ammunition, federal officials said.

If convicted of the terror plot, the suspects could face a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Revelations of the possible attack come amid a heated presidential election in which Republican candidate Donald Trump has made incendiary remarks about immigrants, and has vowed to impose a ban to keep some Muslims from entering the US. Earlier this year a report from CAIR found a total of 78 violent attacks occurred at mosques in 2015 - up from 34 in 2014. The organization has been tracking the incidents since 2009 and said the number of attacks in 2016 could make it “one of the worst years” on record.

L-R: Chief Host / Director, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Mr. Christian Okonkwo; Pioneer Amir, Abuja Muslim Forum (AMF), Malam Idris Usman and Imam of Wuse Zone 3, FCT, Tajudeen Adigun, at the 1438 Hijrah anniversary lecture in Abuja…yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Fear God always, Lagos commissioners tasks leaders Muritala Ayinla

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he Lagos State Commisioner for Home Affairs, Dr Abdulhakeem Abdullateef, has called on Nigerians, particularly those entrusted with public office to fear Allah always, describing everything on earth as a loan which everyone will account for before God. Speaking when he received hundreds of staff of his ministry and those from other ministries and agencies who converge on the new conference room of the ministry to celebrate him for being an exceptional leader and public office holder, Dr Abdullateef described his appointment into the office as loan which he

will one day account for before Allah.

He described life, money, wealth, opportunity, appointments, time and every other things as sacred loan which, Allah will question man about in the day of judgement, urging everyone to be mindful of that irrespective of the circumstance they find themselves.

The Commissioner, who was appointed as the ministry head precisely on 19th October, 2016

by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode was celebrated for bringing transparency, equality and innovations into the ministry within a year.

Describing the him as a compassionate servant leader at a reception held in newly renovated conference room, the Director

of Public Affairs of the Home Affairs Ministry, Mr Kayode Oyekanmi said the 365 Days in office of Dr Abdullateef was eventful.

“The Home Affairs Family wish you greater accomplishment in the years ahead. Our Commissioner is Humane, Vibrant and Compassionate,” he said.

A good number of the staff put their thoughts in black and white to commend the Lagos Home Affairs Commissioner.

Others displayed placards with positive inscription to expressed their joy and gratitude for having Dr Abdulhakeem Abdullateef at helms of affairs in the Lagos Ministry of Home Affairs.

Some of the inscriptions on their placards reads: “ Our Oga

is God fearing. You are one in a million”; “You have Wisdom and understanding to lead the Ministry aright”;”You are a man of intelligence and integrity personified”, “One year of good and tested leadership quality with style” among others.

Reacting to the good will messages, the Commissioner, Dr Abdullateef who thanked members of Home Affairs Family, said leadership is about selfless service.

According to him, “I am pleased and humble to be called to serve. I remain grateful to God and His Excellency, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for giving me the opportunity. Our success stories in the Ministry of Home Affairs was as a result of the strategic approaches of the Governor of Lagos State.”

33

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Mistaken identity

Crime

‘My hairstyle implicated me in robbery’

34

Controversy OOUTH must explain my wife’s disappearance –Husband

Fraud Fake LASTMA officials tow vehicles, sell parts

35 36

Recession: Robbers target cyclists, kill father of three …another tied, flung into canal Taiwo Jimoh

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ommercial cyclists in Ofada area of Ogun State have blamed economic recession for the sudden increase in robbery attacks on them and snatching of motorbikes.

According to them, there used to be pockets of robberies before, but since the recession, motorbikes are not only being snatched, but cyclists are now often being killed and maimed.

The latest victim, to the increasing piles of dead bodies and injured cyclists, is a father of three, Mr. Chukwuman Anthony.

Anthony was stabbed to death by some suspected armed robbers, who snatched his motorbike. When Anthony’s body was discovered, a knife was protruding from his chest.

It’s speculated that Anthony, rather than give up his only source of livelihood, engaged his attackers in fisticuffs, leading to his death.

The murder of Anthony occurred on October 9, about 8:pm.

He was said to have left with two passengers who hired him to take them to Arogun community. He, however, didn’t return home or go to the motorbike riders’ park.

Cyclists who lived to tell the story of robbers that target motorbikes, said they knew the assilants' modus operandi, since they had experienced it.

According to them, Anthony’s killers would have ordered him to park a few minutes after they left the Mowe motorbike riders’ park.

They would also have ordered him to hand over his motorcycle key to them at gunpoint.

They guessed he was stabbed

JULIANA FRANCIS CRIME Editor

juliana.francis@newtelegraphonline.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Anthony

to death for refusing to cooperate with the robbers. Anthony bled and died on the spot.

When our correspondent visited the home of the deceased at No. 7 Jehovah Jerreh Street, some sympathisers were praying for his family members.

Mr. Mathew Uduak, the deceased’s friend, said he was still reeling in shock.

According to him, when Anthony rode off with the two passengers, he never knew it would be the last time he would set his eyes on him.

He said: “We were together at the bus stop that fateful night. He had already bought two loaves of bread and other items, which he said he wanted to take home to his family. He was already planning to go home, when those two pas-

The passenger suddenly brought out a pistol and pointed it at me

sengers came. They negotiated and he set out for the journey.

That was how we departed that night. Someone called me the following day, to say Anthony’s passengers murdered him and took his motorbike.”

A family member of the deceased, who doesn’t want his name mentioned, said: “We have lost our bread winner.We were at home, waiting for him to return that night, when some of his colleagues called me on phone. They said my brother was lying on the roadside, on Ofada Road, with a knife sticking out from his chest.

We rushed to the scene and found him in a pool of his blood. We immediately reported the matter at Mowe Police Station.”

The relative said that the family was appealing to the Ogun State

Commissioner of Police, to fish out killers of Anthony. He said that Anthony was from Ebonyi State and came to Ogun State to make a living and take care of his wife and children.

Anthony’s widow, Mary, said she was sleeping when her phone rang. She picked it and was given the shattering news. She said that it was like her world crashed and time stood still.

She said: “I’m at a loss for words. I just can’t understand it; someone that I waved goodbye to before he left that morning. Then the phone call came and I was told my husband had been killed.

I’m appealing to the Ebonyi State governor and some good spirited Nigerians to come to my aid. I don’t know how on earth I’m going to fend for three kids. I’m just a young woman.”

Further investigations by our correspondent showed that the rate of motorbike stealing has increased drastically in Mowe and its environs, due to the economic situation in the country.

Mr. Amah Owuru, a robbery victim who lived to tell his story, said that sometimes in June, his motorcycle was snatched from him at gunpoint.

He said: “I just bought the motorcycle in June and it was stolen in June. On that fateful night, I had no money; I decided to work to get some money, with which to use to pay for ticket the following day. The first passengers were a lady and a man. The woman alighted; I was left with the man.

To my surprise, when we got to an area called Ifokonbale Street, in Mowe, the passenger suddenly brought out a pistol and pointed it at me. The time was about 9pm.

He demanded my motorcycle key, Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card and the ATM Personal Identification Number (PIN). I handed everything to him without hesitation.”

Owuru said that although he immediately reported the incident to the police, the robber was never arrested and his motorbike, yet to be recovered.

Corroborating Owuru’s view, Edwin Alex said: “Last year my motorcycle was also snatched at gunpoint, along Abiola Gardens, at Alausa, Ikeja. I was waiting CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

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CRIME

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

‘My hairstyle implicated me in robbery’ Endurance Evulukwu

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ike most youths his age, 20-year-old Fatai Salami, must have been warned several times about sporting dreadful looking hairstyles by his parents.

He must also have been cautioned about sporting tattoos on his body. But just like some youths, he had ignored his parents warning, viewing them as ‘old schools.’

Today, Salami is bitterly regretting his hairstyle, which he once saw as trendy and fashionable.

Salami was among some youngsters arrested for robbery at the Ilupeju and Ajagbandi area of Lagos State.

Those presently in police custody, aside from Salami, are, Olayinka 17, Rasheed 16, Idris and Segun. The teenagers all denied being involved in robbery.

But Idris said that although he wasn’t a robber, he however used to pick peoples’ pockets.

According to them, they were victims of circumstances and mistaken identities. They said they were passing through areas where a robbery had just taken place, when residents accused them of being the robbers that attacked. Salami said that residents wouldn’t have pounced on him, accusing him of robbery, if not because of his hairstyle. He was arrested alongside, Samuel, on September 26.

Salami, without mincing words, said: “I know it was my hairstyle that implicated me. Yes, it was the way I styled it. My family members have told me several times to barb and remove the locks, but I refused. Now, it has got me into trouble. I was dragged to Ilupeju Police Station naked.

My sister was later called to bring my clothes.”

Some of the boys had tears in their eyes as they proclaimed their innocence.

Moses, 17, who described himself as an assistant coordinator of Cherubim and Seraphim, located at Ajagbandi, Lagos, said his parents relocated to Ibadan to set up another church, leaving alone at home.

Recalling the event that led him into police custody, Moses said that the church where he

Two suspects with hairstyle

The suspects

worshipped, had just finished service that fateful Sunday, when he saw a friend.

The friend told him that there was a party, not too far from where Moses lives. He decided to attend.

Moses said: “I decided to attend the party. I left for the party at about 7pm after I finished from church. But by the time I got to the venue, the party was over. I was disappointed. My major plan was to eat at the party.

I was hungry; I didn’t have any money.”

He said that trouble started after he left the party’s venue and made a beeline for his home.

His words: “I was on my way home when I heard people started shouting thief. I wanted to run, but decided not to, because I felt running would implicate me. Before I knew what was happening, the crowd moved to-

My family members have told me several times to barb and remove the locks, but I refused

wards me and started calling me a thief.”

Moses said that he protested until he was blue in the face, but nobody paid attention to him. He was handed over to Ajagbandi Police Station.

He explained that his case was further complicated because police recovered a saw from him.

He was accused of using it to threaten his victims in order to seize their valuables.

He said: “When police questioned me, I told them I found the saw on the street. The saw was already rusting; I picked it. My plan was to sell it to Hausa men that used to buy iron rods. If I had sold it, I would have used the money to buy food.”

Another suspect, Rasheed, insisted that he had no idea of all that transpired.

Rasheed, a senior secondary school student (SS2), Alogbo Senior Grammar School, Ajagbandi, said: “I was returning from a party at Shebaru, when residents who were searching for some armed robbers accosted me. In fact, before the residents got to me, the robbers had also robbed me. They collected my phone. I was still recovering from the shock when the residents pounced on me and started beating me, calling me a thief.”

Samuel said that he was caught at about 8pm that day and moved to police station without proper interrogation.

Samuel, a shoemaker apprentice, said that he knew the robbers who operated that day, adding that they used to work in the area where he was learning shoe making.

Samuel said: "When I heard of people being arrested for crimes they didn’t commit, I had always

doubted it. Now, see me here! I don't know what to believe anymore. I pray I can get a lawyer as soon as possible. The police advised me to get a lawyer.”

Idris, a vulcanizer, said that unlike others, he, alongside a friend, had been committing stealing for months now.

He confessed that he and his friend used to pick people's pockets, especially when commuters are boarding commercial buses.

According to him, he was caught and dragged to police after he was caught, attempting to pick a victim’s pocket.

His words: "When I go out with my friend on weekends, we would pick people’s pockets. On my second trial day, we boarded a bus; my friend and I were about to steal from a victim when the man suddenly became aware and threw us out of the moving bus. I was beaten while my friend escaped.”

Idris said that he was drawn to crime because he was not making much money as a vulcaniser. He said that his only living parent, his mother, felt bad about all that transpired and hasn't stopped crying over his arrest.

Segun, 16, a student of Alope Ele Grammar School, Ajagbandi, said that he was caught by commuters who mistook him for Idris's friend, who picked someone's pocket and escaped.

Segun said: "I heard residents and commuters shouting thief !

Thief ! I wanted to run, but I knew that if I did, I would be indicted. So, I stood still; I was there when a commuter shouted that I was Idris's partner. People gathered and started beating me.

I tried to explain, but they didn't believe me. "

CRIME

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

OOUTH must explain my wife’s disappearance –Husband Kunle Olayeni Abeokuta

M

uftau Muritala, the husband of a 40-year-old woman, Ajarat, who reportedly disappeared from the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, has insisted that his wife was abducted from the hospital.

He spoke in a telephone interview with New Telegraph as controversy continued to trail the alleged disappearance of the patient more than one week after.

Muritala expressed fear that his wife might have become a kidnap victim just as he claimed that speculation had been rife about the existence of a ritual killers’ den inside the bush behind the hospital.

Ogun State government had earlier denied that the patient disappeared from the hospital but actually absconded.

The mother of four was reported to have been admitted at the hospital for heart-related ailment before the incident.

Giving insight into what transpired at the hospital, Muritala explained that his wife had been accessing healthcare at OOUTH for about four years.

The man added that she was rushed to the hospital last week while an X-ray conducted on her after paying the admission fee of N10,000.

He said: “On that fateful day, my

mother was there, my wife’s sister was present as well as my second wife. There were about 10 nurses on duty. They asked us to go outside the ward because there were too many people inside.

“When I returned about after 12 in the night, I went straight to check on my wife on her admission bed and I could not find her. I sought her whereabouts and the nurses said they did not know when she left.

They asked me to check her in the bathroom.

“But when I got to the bathroom, I did not see her. I saw one woman who claimed she saw my wife before I came.

“The nurses on duty did not find my wife until they handed over to their counterparts on afternoon shift. When our efforts did not yield any result, we reported the matter to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Sagamu.”

Muritala explained that the DPO subsequently got in touch with the Chief Security Officer of the hospital after which the nurses and some staff of the hospital were invited. ”When the head of OOUTH came, he signed an undertaking that my wife would be provided within the next 24 hours. Unfortunately, till today, my wife has not been found,” he said.

Muritala faulted the claim that the family was playing some pranks with the patient’s disappearance.

He also denied that the hospital management billed the family N1.5

35

Mrs Muritala

million to perform heart surgery for his wife.

Muritala, however, told our correspondent that he had honoured an invitation from the Department of State Services (DSS), which asked him to throw more light on the incident.

Muritala’s position was in contrary to the comments by the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Babatunde Ipaye, who alleged that the family was trying to play smart on the management of the teaching hospital.

The commissioner had said the patient had been stabilised before she requested to go to the bathroom last Wednesday.

“At 2p.m. when the nurses could not see her, they told the head of the nurses. They went outside and did not see the woman and the family members.

“Those who know the woman told the management that the patient has psychiatric problem and was not brought to the hospital by her husband. We learnt that she was brought to the hospital by an Alfa. They said her husband was at Odogbolu and the patient had been seen in the area.

“It is a case of abscondment and the government has begun moves to investigate the issue. The DSS is aware of the matter; I have also asked them to look for the husband,” Muritala added

‘I exposed him because he killed our member’

Farotimi and Olowo

Merit Mbah and Endurance Evulukwu

T

wenty-seven-year-old Shola Farotimi knew he was in a big trouble when Anti-Robbery Policemen, attached to Area J Police

Command, Ajah, Lagos State arrested him for being a cultist and having a gun.

Although Farotimi, a barber, has told police that the gun didn’t belong to him, he however admitted borrowing it because he needed to use it to instill fear

into the hearts of rival cult members.

According to him, after making use of the gun, he returned it to the owner, identified as Sule. Since the arrest of Farotimi, police had been hunting for Sule, but all efforts to catch him have failed.

It was gathered that anytime police concluded plans to swoop on him, he would vanish from the community.

Police believe that cult members, aside from using such guns to kill one another during clashes, also use them to rob unsuspecting members of the public.

Farotimi, who belonged to Aiye confraternity, said that he borrowed the gun to scare a member of Eiye confraternity, identified as Bolaji Olowo.

He confessed that since he joined ‘Aiye,’ he has not known peace. He said he was initiated in 2010, through a friend residing in Ekiti State.

Farotimi added: “Aiye and Eiye cult members don't see eye to eye. There’s usually hatred, and at the sight of rival members, there would be a fight.”

He further said: “When Eiye members were celebrating their anniversary on July 8, they burnt down my shop.

Since then, I swore vengeance. I have been seeking for an opportunity to do so. I knew Bolaji Olowo was one of them. So I used the gun to warn and scare him. The essence of this was to ensure they didn’t see me as a weakling.”

He said that since he threatened Olowo with the gun, the news travelled far and wide, leading to members of Eiye, giving him a wide berth.

Remembering how he became a guest of the police, Farotim said that there was a clash between an Eiye, Bolaji Olowo and Aiye, Alana, members.

They were fighting along the road when policemen came to the scene and arrested them.

Farotimi said that he was walking past at that crucial moment, when Olowo suddenly pointed at him and told police that he was a cultist.

"I was walking to my friend's place when Bolaji pointed at me and told the police I was an Aiye cult member. That was how the police arrested me,” said Farotimi.

Olowo, 20, a plumber, said that the CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

36

CRIME

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

L-R: Celestine, Adisa and Rahmon

Fake LASTMA officials tow vehicles, sell parts Chidiebere Ejike

T

he recent arrest of three suspects by detectives attached to the Lagos State Police Command has revealed how some criminals, pretending to be officials of Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA), used to tow and steal vehicles parked along roads.

Detectives uncovered how some men, under the cover of darkness, would tow vehicles parked along the road, with people thinking they were LASTMA officials. LASTMA is the agency empowered to impound vehicles parked by road sides. Parking of vehicles along roads is viewed as illegal by the state government.

One of those trading in such illegal business is Rasaki Rasheed Adisa, 32. He was arrested after he towed a commercial bus parked along the road, dismantled it and sold the parts to spare part dealers at Jankara, Ojokoro-Ijaiye, Lagos State.

Adisa, who said he towed the yellow Volkswagen minibus, popularly called Danfo, from where it was parked, said he was ready to replace it if he was pardoned and released.

He confessed to have moved the bus from where it was parked about 9:00 pm on September 26.

Adisa was arrested along with Monsuru Rahmon, 27, and Okafor Celestine, 33.

Adisa said that he was able to steal the bus with a towing van, adding that he sold some of its parts to Celestine. He said that Celestine is a spare part dealer, trading at Jankara, Ojokoro-Ijaiye, on Abeokuta Road.

Adisa, who was introduced to Celestine by Rahmon, said he sold the parts for N55, 000.

He said: “After I had stolen the bus with a towing van, I removed some important parts and sold them to Celestine. It was Rahmon, who introduced Celestine to me. We negotiated and Celestine paid N55, 000 for the parts.”

According to Adisa, he had already pleaded with the man in charge of the bus, Mr. Yaw Mensah, to allow him replace it, but Mensah refused.

Mensah said that the only way peace could be brokered, was for Adisa to first allow him to speak with the owner of the bus. Mensah

‘I exposed him because he killed our member’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

fight between the two groups heightened after the death of their member, Gbalaya. He said Farotimi killed Gbalaya.

He said: “Gbalaya was killed on the day he was planning to buy a plot of land at Ode Market. He and Farotimi saw each other and started fighting. We were instructed to always fight our enemies, the Aiye, whenever we see them. Unfortunately, Gbalaya was shot and killed

by Farotimi. Since then, we swore to avenge his death. Yes, we burnt Farotimi’s shop; that was just a tip of the ice berge. When he threatened me at Langbasa with a gun, I decided

to leave him alone."

Olowo said that he was arrested on September 28, as he fought with Alana.

He added: “It was Alana that alerted the police through a phone call.

But he swiftly left the scene before the arrival of the policemen. When I saw Farotimi, I decided to inform the police that he is Aiye member.”

During police interrogation, the issue of the gun was raised. Police proceeded to Farotimi’s home to carry out a search. They found machete and axe, but no gun.

The two suspects said they were ashamed of themselves, adding that none of their family members had bothered to check on them at the police station since their arrest.

insisted that everything depended on the decision of the bus owner.

Narrating his own part of the story, Mensah said: “I packed the bus after work on Capitol Road, Agege.

When I got there the following day, I discovered it was missing. I quickly went in search of it until by chance;

I discovered some of its parts at Celestine’s shop. I promptly called the police.”

Celestine said: “All I know is that Rasheed brought some motor spare parts to me. I paid him the agreed amount and collected the parts.”

He didn’t say whether he knew the parts were from a stolen vehicle or not.

Recession: Robbers target cyclists, kill father of three CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

for passengers at our park in Mowe when a lady and a man approached me.They introduced themselves as police officers. They said I should take them to Alausa Police Station.

When we got to Abiola Gardens, I was shocked when the lady whipped out a gun and ordered me to hand over my motorcycle key.”

Alex continued his narration: “When I reported the incident to the police at Alausa Station, I was arrested and charged to court. The police said that I was working with armed robbers. I spent about two years in prison before I was released. I have learnt my lesson; since then, I don’t work at night. I even advised my colleagues to desist from night work because it’s dangerous.”

Another victim, who doesn’t want

Motorcyclists at their park

his name mentioned, said he was tied, bundled and flung into the canal by robbers, after they snatched his motorcycle.

He said: “I thought it was a joke that fateful afternoon when they asked me to hand over my motorcycle key to them. Initially, they didn’t bring out their gun, but later did.

They tied my hands and legs, bundled and flung me into the canal. I was able to untie the rope and swarm out of the water.”

Mr. Taye Seimote, chairman Task Force of Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle Riders Association, Mowe branch, said: “Some of our members were invited to Ogun State Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran to fashion out ways to curtail further killings of cyclists in this area. We’re working with the police to check the killings and robberies.”

business \ money line

FRIDAY, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Banks step foreign currency cards marketing forced several banks, including Stanbic IBTC, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria and Guaranty Trust Bank, to either announce a suspension of, or restriction on the use of naira debit cards for international transactions.

Financial analysts have predicted that the development would impact the banks’ fourth quarter revenue. For instance, in a note obtained by this newspaper, experts at CardinalStone Research stated: “We expect a significant reduction in the contribution of card revenues to non-interest income in Q4 if the suspension of card transactions persist.”

foreign currency cards to request for these cards, which they can fund and spend internationally.

One of such emails sighted by New Telegraph’s correspondent reads: “Dear Customer, You can now use your foreign currency denominated cards for international transactions abroad. If you don’t have a card yet, please visit any of our branches to request for a dollar denominated card, which you can fund and spend internationally.

“Please note, your Naira card limit for international transactions remains $100 monthly,” the statement added.

The worsening shortage of foreign exchange in the system last week

DEFERRED Lenders have suspended the use of naira debit cards for international transactions Tony Chukwunyem

I

n the wake of their suspension of the usage of naira debit cards for international transactions, Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) in the country have intensified the marketing of their foreign currency cards.

Investigations by New Telegraph reveal that DMBs have been sending emails to their customers urging those without

CBN sells $313m in forwards Sells N81.5bn in short-dated T-bills

T

he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has sold around $313 million in a two-month forward auction to clear backlog dollar demand, Citibank wrote in a note to clients yesterday.

Last week, the apex bank held a two-month dollar forward auction to clear a backlog of demand from airlines, manufacturers and other companies, as a currency crisis deepened.

It later directed lenders to submit bids again on Monday, traders said.

Traders said the regulator had sold less foreign exchange than

cent at the previous auction on October 5th.

The apex bank sold N28.20 billion of 6-month debt at 17.09 per cent, unchanged from the last auction. It also sold N32.35 billion of the 1-year bills at 18.30 per cent compared with 18.25 per cent previously.

Total subscriptions stood at N115.26 billion compared with N311.40 billion at the last auction.

The regulator issues treasury bills to raise cash to fund the budget deficit, manage banking system liquidity and curb rising inflation.

would be expected at a special auction, and that bids had been accepted at around a range of 310350 per dollar.

Meanwhile data from the CBN yesterday showed that the banking watchdog sold N81.47 billion in short-dated treasury bills at an auction last Wednesday, with mixed yields.

The CBN had proposed to sell 138.16 billion naira worth of the debt in its initial announcement.

A total of N20.92 billion of the 3-month paper was sold at 14 per cent, against 13.90 per

CBN, Heritage Bank, NYSC disburse N774m to 310 YIEDP beneficiaries Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

T

he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Heritage Bank Plc and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have disbursed N774million to 310 beneficiaries under the Youth Innovative Entrepreneurship Development Programme (YIEDP).

Speaking at the flagoff ceremony for the disbursement of funds to young entrepreneurs under the YIEDP, the CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, commended Heritage Bank for its painstaking effort to buy into the vision of job creation and piloting the programme to a successful stage.

The governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, Alhaji Suleiman Barau, said the apex bank in partnership with Heritage Bank and NYSC instituted the programme to reduce the alarming rate of unemployment affecting over 16 million unemployed youths in Nigeria. He added that the access to credit via this platform would be a powerful instrument to grow businesses and the economy.

He noted that the YIEDP was part of the plan by the banking watchdog and the Federal Government to create over one million direct jobs by 2020.

Emefiele, who af-

Economic Indicators

MPR 91-day NTB Bonny Light Ext Res**

Description 15.10 27-APR-2017 16.00 29-JUN-2019 15.54 13-FEB-2020 16.39 27-JAN-2022 14.20 14-MAR-2024 12.50 22-JAN-2026 10.00 23-JUL-2030 12.1493 18-JUL-2034 Tenor (Days) Call 30 90 180

N19,142,526.05m N18,579,219.49m 17.9

Mar, 2015 Mar, 2015 Sept, 2016

14 10.77 US$50.89 US$23,955,731,290

26/07/2016 Mar 2015 20/10/2016 18/10/2016 Source:CBN

FGN Bonds

TTM

1.07 3.24 3.87 5.82 7.95 9.81 14.31 18.29

Price 104.65 114.59 111.96 120.58 109.60 100.54 83.82 97.56

NIBOR

Rate (%) 4.4583 9.1071 11.0102 12.3790

Treasury Bills

Bid Yield 10.38 10.55 11.60 11.44 12.27 12.40 12.44 12.49

Change (%) -2.50 ▼ -0.74 ▼ -0.65 ▼ -0.68 ▼

firmed that the programme would have a multiplier effect on job creation and economy, urged all the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the fund.

He added that the YIEDP has the potential of becoming the stimulus for job and wealth creation, growth and economic development through improved access to finance for young entrepreneurs.

He also gave assurance to the business community that the CBN would continue to provide enabling environment, devise ways and means to grow the real sector towards a self-reliant economy.

Similarly, Managing Director, Heritage Bank Plc, Mr. Ifie Sekibo, stated that the beneficiaries would get the fund as soon as certain concerns raised by the beneficiaries regarding the conditions for the loans are addressed.

Sekibo, who was represented by Group Executive Director, Lagos /South-West Corporate and Banking of Heritage Bank, Mrs. Mary Akpobome, said a proper process of disbursement would be done to the benefit and happiness of all parties.

He said, “They will get the money as soon as all those issues they raised are addressed. The money is available.

They have been disbursed. CBN has disbursed to the banks. It is now about sorting out whatever the challenges are, and then the funds are now made available.”

Commenting on the process, Sekibo stated that the target was for 1,000 beneficiaries, adding that the initial applicants were 4,000, while there are presently 7,000 applicants waiting.

He said, “We are optimistic that by the time we are done with the initial 1,000, and we go back, we would be able to accommodate as many as are qualified as possible, and obviously expand the amount of money that is needed to do that.”

The MD disclosed that Heritage Bank leveraged on its robust electronic platform in order to ensure a seamless and successful disbursement of the YIEDP funds.

Also speaking, Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier-General Sule Kazaure, said the YEDP was introduced in March 2016, with the aim of funding the business plans of corps members so as to encourage and motivate others to imbibe the culture of entrepreneurship.

He said that the programme was also designed to facilitate access to other funding agencies and sources of support to corps members, while also making it possible for corps members to access Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, MSMES, funds from the CBN through Heritage Bank and other banks wishing to join in the programme.

A beneficiary, Deprieye Iyang who received N3 million for a food processing business venture commended CBN, Heritage Bank and NYSC for the programme.

Stanbic IBTC pledges support for FG’s agric restoration plan

As at M2* CPS* INF

37

S Change (%) -0.02 ▼ -0.01 ▼ 0.00 ↔ 0.00 ↔ -0.07 ▼ -0.08 ▼ -0.03 ▼ 0.02 ▲

Price 104.80 114.89 112.26 120.88 109.90 100.84 84.12 97.86

Tenor (Months) 1 2 3 6 9 12

Offer Yield 10.24 10.45 11.51 11.38 12.22 12.34 12.39 12.44

NITTY

Rate (%) 6.9949 7.2368 8.0819 9.2061 9.5872 10.5042

Change (%) -0.02 ▼ -0.01 ▼ 0.00 ↔ 0.00 ↔ -0.07 ▼ -0.08 ▼ -0.03 ▼ 0.02 ▲ Change (%) 1.12 ▲ -0.27 ▼ -0.17 ▼ -0.11 ▼ 0.03 ▲ 0.42 ▲

Money Market

Maturity Date Discount Bid Yield Change (%) Discount Offer Yield Change (%) Rate (%) 7.67 7.82 -0.51 ▼ Open-Buy-Back (OBB) 3.83 30-Jun-16 7.92 8.08 -0.51 ▼ 6-Oct-16 8.59 8.34 8.71 -0.31 ▼ Overnight (O/N) 4.33 8.99 -0.31 ▼ 16-Mar-17 9.36 10.28 -0.07 ▼ 9.11 9.98 -0.07 ▼

Change (%) -1.75 ▼ -2.08 ▼

tanbic IBTC has pledged its continued support for the Federal Government’s drive to restore the country’s glory as a leader in agricultural production.

Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, Mrs. Sola David-Borha, stated this at the lender’s 2016 Business Leadership Series which took place in Lagos yesterday.

She said the focus on agriculture is understandable; the sector and its value chain have the potential to create millions of jobs, especially as over 70 percent of Nigeria’s population is engaged in agriculture-related activities. The drop in crude oil prices has justifiably shifted emphasis to the non-oil

sectors of the economy, she said, making import substitution and export promotion very imperative.

The Stanbic IBTC boss said: “The Challenge is unlocking partnerships in agriculture. It requires patience and commitment to see things through.

This platform(Business Leadership Series) will help the Federal Gover nment’s drive towards diversification of the economy.”

In his remarks, the Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbeh, who was represented by Lagos State Director in the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Funlola Olusanya, said the government was ready to collaborate with the private sector to boost agricultural production in the country.

38

businesS \ Financial Market News

FRIDAY, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

businesS \ Financial Market News

FRIDAY, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

39

Stock market halts 3-day losing streak BOOST Resumed bargain hunting activities lifts, translating to N41billion gain

Stories Chris Ugwu

T

rading on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) returned to the upbeat after three days

of downswing, as equities got a fillip from resumed bargain hunting activities across the board.

Consequently, the equities market closed on a positive note, as NSE ASI and market capitalisation appreciated by 0.44 per cent.

Similarly, the All-Share Index gained 120.3 basis points or 0.44 per cent to close at 27,598.34 basis points as against 27,478.04 recorded the previous day, while the market capitalisation of equities appreciated by N41bil-

Tranex posts 24% drop in Q32016 net earnings

T

rans-Nationwide Express Plc (Tranex) Q3 2016 profit after tax fell by 24.41 per cent to N35.151 million for the period ended September 30, 2016 from N28.484million recorded a year earlier.

In a filing from the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), the company’s pre-tax profit also fell by 23.53 per cent from N61.007 million during the previous year to N46.651 million in the period under review.

However, the company’s revenue grew by 2.28 per cent from N589.144 million in 2015 to N602.625 million during the half financial year 2016.

Tranex had grown profit after tax by 37.98 per cent to N17.701 million from N12.828 million recorded a year earlier for the Q1 2016 ended March 2016.

The company’s pre-tax profit grew by 43.81 per cent from N16.828 million during the previous year to N24.201 million in the period under review.

The company’s revenue also rose by 11 per cent from N718.016 million in 2014 to N798.557 million during the financial year 2015.

However, the Tranex’s full year 2015 profit after tax had fell 24 per cent to N50.972 million from N66.771 million recorded a year earlier.

But the company’s pretax profit inched up by 53 per cent from N49.476 million during the previous year to N75.678 million in the period under review.

The company’s revenue also leapt by 11 per cent from N718.016 million in 2014 to N798.557 million in the financial year 2015.

The directors of the company proposed a dividend of 10 kobo per share to its shareholders, which amounts to N19, 882,000.

Tranex full year 2014 net earnings fell 14 per cent to N66.771 million from N77.432 million recorded the previous year.

The company’s pre-tax profit also dropped by 32 per cent from N72.665 million during the previous year to N49.476 million during the period under review.

The company’s revenue declined by 0.15 per cent from N716.915 million in 2013 to N718.016 million in the full year 2014.

and Fidelity Bank Plc. P re m i u m sub-sector boosted by activities in the shares of FBNH Plc and Zenith Bank Plc followed with a turnover of 17.2 million shares in 537 deals.

The number of gainers at the close of trading session was 16, while decliners closed at 14.

GTB Plc led the gainers’ table with 5.11 per cent to close at N24.49 kobo per share, while International Breweries Plc and NEM Insurance Plc followed with a

gain of five per cent each to close at N19.95 and 84 kobo per share respectively. Caverton Plc added 3.80 per cent to close at 82 kobo per share.

On the other hand, Triple G Plc led the price losers’ table, dropping 4.90 per cent to close at N1.36 per share.

African Prudential Registrars Plc followed with 4.83 per cent to close at N2.56 per share, while Neimeth International Plc trailed with a loss of 4.65 per cent to close at 82 kobo per share

Lender partners three firms to build refinery

project. We believe this will significantly boost Nigeria’s economy and create much needed jobs,” said Alakhume.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, gave assurance to Wema Bank and members of the consortium of his administration’s commitment to fully support the project.

“We have the political will and we would support the project fully. You can be rest assured that I will get involved, when necessary, in order to ensure that the project is a success,” Amosun said.

lion or 0.44 per cent to close at N9.479 trillion from N9.438 trillion.

Meanwhile, a turnover of 111.8 million shares exchanged in 2,699 deals was recorded in the day’s trading.

Banking sub-sector of the financial services sector was the most active (measured by turnover volume) with 36.7 million shares exchanged by investors in 724 deals.

Volume in the subsector was largely driven by activities in the shares of GTB Plc

W

ema Bank Plc and three other companies, Petrolex Oil and Gas, Hyundai and Ajayi Legal Partner have signed a deal with the Ogun State Government to build the second largest refinery in sub-Saharan Africa and the largest petroleum product depot in Nigeria.

In a statement, Chairman, Petrolex Group, Mr. Segun Adebutu, while speaking at the signing ceremony, said

the two projects, which will be located in Odognolu Local Government Area of the state, when completed, would generate at least 2000 jobs and greatly increase the socio-economic condition of the host state.

Commenting on the project, Henry Alakhume, Head of Corporate Banking at Wema Bank, expressed delight at the deal.

“Wema Bank is proud to support Petrolex Group in the refinery and petroleum depot

FRC unveils national code of corporate governance

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he Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) has unveiled the National Code of Corporate Governance (NCCG), ending the long wait for rules to guide business operations in the country.

These codes are expected to bring changes in the structure of organisations and businesses as the Federal Government aims to sanitize the nation’s business environment to attract more foreign investments into the country.

The codes are National Code of Corporate of Governance for the Private Sector, Code of Corporate of Governance for the Not-For-Profit

Entities and Code of Corporate Governance for the Public Sector.

While The NCCG for Private and Not-For-Profit Entities took effect from Monday, October 17, 2016, that of the Public Sector will require approval from the Presidency to be applicable.

In a statement by the Media/Communications Consultant to the Council, Mr. Mack Ogbamosa, the FRC noted that the Code of Corporate Governance for the Private Sector is Mandatory while the code of Governance for Not-For-Profit entities “Comply or Justify non-compliance.”

FRC said: “The Code of

Governance for the Public Sector will not be applicable immediately until an executive directive is secured from the Federal Government of Nigeria. This is due to the fact that the enabling laws that set up most government establishments already carry some form of governance structure that will require an umbrella legislation to unify the different provisions of those laws to synchronise with this code,” he stated.

The FRC unveiled these codes following the judgment of the Federal High Court of Lagos last Monday, which struck out the suit that had delayed the release of NCCG.

40

NEWS | SOUTH-WEST

AD, PDP exchange verbal darts over violence Babatope Okeowo Akure

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he Alliance for Democracy (AD) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday exchanged brickbats over its plan to attack each other ahead of the November 26 governorship election in Ondo State The AD through its Director General of Olusola

Oke Campaign Organisation, Bola Ilori, accused the ruling PDP in the state of allegedly using thugs to disrupt the campaign and distract its candidate, Chief Oke. The party appealed to the police command and other security agencies in the state to be proactive in the protection of their members before and during the governorship election, scheduled for November 26.

friday, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

UNICEF, FG seek end to violence against children Babatope Okeowo Akure

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he United Nations Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and the Federal Government yesterday pushed for an action that would put an end to violence

Herdsmen’s attack: Fayose incorporates police, others, inaugurates anti-grazing marshals Sulaiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti

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kiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has inaugurated the Ekiti Grazing Enforcement Marshals with a warning that cattle found grazing anywhere across the 16 Local Government Areas of the state after 6pm would be confiscated by the government.

Fayose also said the state government would

work with the police and other security agencies to confront erring armed herdsmen, although the newly inaugurated marshals would not carry arms in the discharge of their duty to tackle armed cattle rearers as they would rely on official security agencies empowered by law to carry arms.

The governor who spoke on Thursday at the inauguration of the marshals in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, said there

must be a halt to the menace of incessant killings of innocent people and forceful seizure and waste of the means of livelihood of farmers, saying "10,000 cattle could not compensate for the life of one human being lost to conflict between herdsmen and local farmers."

He however frowned at the menace of cattle rustling, noting the law was in the interest of cattle rearers too as their operations would be streamlined.

against children in the country.

Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, advocated this during a two-day media dialogue with editors and correspondents on the commemoration of the launch of the year of action to end violence against children.

The minister who was represented by Mrs Rose Madu, the Head of the Child Rights Information Bureau, said violence must end against children in Nigeria.

He noted that issues arising from children were many, but the workshop was to sensitise the populace, using the various media platforms available in to country.

He said that the advocacy would not be achieved if the media was not carried along.

The Child Protection Specialist with UNICEF, Sharon Oladiji, noted that Nigeria had many laws protecting children

Osogbo

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ayment of workers’ outstanding allowances at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) by the acting vice chancellor of the institution, Professor Anthony Elujoba, is now causing ripples in the academic environment following a query reportedly issued out by the Federal Government to question why the vice chancellor should carry out the payment without its approval.

The workers who are poised for war against the Federal Government over the query issued, staged a peaceful demonstration to register their grievances on the development.

The protesting workers

Kunle Olayeni

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FG queries OAU VC over workers’ allowances

organised themselves into a formidable group, marched round the campus in procession to condemn the act of the Federal Government they described as inhuman.

The angry workers who converged as early as 9.00am on the day of the protest, sang anti-government songs to kick against the government move on the matter.

They wondered why the Acting VC should be queried for paying some outstanding allowances to his workers.

New Telegraph learnt that, the query was issued out to the vice chancellor following a petition forwarded by a group of people to the Federal Government to condemn the payment they claimed it was not in order.

Fayose vs EFCC: Obanikoro vindicated us, says APC Sulaiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti

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he Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said revelations by a former Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, had offered ample justification of insistent claims by the party that Governor Ayodele Fayose was heavily funded by the Federal Government to compromise the June 21, 2014 election which he won.

According to a statement in Ado-Ekiti, the state

184.78m The total number of connected mobile lines (GSM) of Nigeria in December 2014.

Source: Ncc.gov.ng

capital, yesterday by APC's Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatunbosun, "Obanikoro's confession that he gave millions of dollars in cash to Fayose to 'fix' his election had left Nigerians in clearer picture that Fayose won his election through fraud as the party had always insisted.

"Fayose was mobilised by the Federal Government with funds, military and INEC to win his election. Captain Sagir Koli's tape said it all in an audio recording where Fayose himself said he collected INEC’s soft copies he printed to win his election before PDP State Secretary, Tope Aluko, told Nigerians through documents how the process was compromised to give victory to Fayose."

search Department of the National Population Commission, Okey Unogu, said six out of every 10 children experience some form of violence.

Unogu said there were three forms of violence suffered by children in the country; physical, emotional and sexual violence.

He said, according to the survey conducted in 2014 with children within the ages of 13-24 years, girls were likely to experience more sexual and emotional violence.

Unogu said boys suffered more of physical and emotional violence, adding that over 50 per cent of the children between six and 11 years suffered physical violence.

Ogun workers' strike paralyses govt activities Abeokuta

L-R: Assistant InspectorGeneral (AIG) of Police in charge of Zone XI, Mr Dan Bature; Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade 111, and Commissioner of Police, Oyo State, Mr. Samuel Adegbuyi, during a courtesy visit to the monarch in Ogbomoso … yesterday

Adeolu Adeyemo

in the country with implementation being the problem.

Oladiji said creation of family court vested with jurisdiction to hear cases that would help protect ‘the child’ and prevent trafficking in the country.

Her words: "We have good laws, but what we have suffered is implementation. Government should also provide the establishment of voluntary homes to take care of children that are suffering."

The child protection specialist said UNICEF wanted a world that would be void of any form of violence against children by the year 2030.

Besides, the Deputy Director, Planning Re-

overnment activities in Ogun State were paralysed yesterday as civil servants commenced an indefinite strike over unpaid cooperative deductions and non-remittance of contributory pensions by the state government.

Public primary and secondary schools, hospitals, courts, local government offices and the state secretariat were deserted as striking workers vowed to ensure total compliance with the industrial action.

The development followed a directive issued on Monday by the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNC) as well as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).

Armed policemen and operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) took over the NLC state secretariat in Abeokuta apparently to forestall a breakdown of law and order.

New Telegraph observed that though workers were not allowed to converge on the NLC secretariat, labour leaders divided themselves into several groups to enforce the strike.

Security agents, with their patrol vehicles, also took strategic positions at the two entrances to the state secretariat, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta while some top civil servants were sighted at their duty posts.

Meanwhile, suspected

thugs unleashed terror on some labour leaders and workers who were monitoring compliance level in Abeokuta.

New Telegraph learnt that the armed thugs, who rode on motorcycles, allegedly beat the workers, injuring some of them near the Water Corporation junction in the state capital.

Reacting yesterday, the state’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in 2015, Prince Gboyega Isiaka, condemned the alleged attack on workers by the suspected thugs.

In a statement, Isiaka sympathised with the workers and warned against politicising normal trade dispute.

He said the state government could have done better by engaging labour leaders in a sincere discussion and put all the facts and figures on the table.

Isiaka said, "Trade dispute is a normal thing between workers and their employers. And there is nothing wrong for the workers to stage a peaceful protest to vent their anger and call public attention to their plight.

"But it is a misnomer to chase workers with rabid party thugs that turned peaceful protest to a bloodletting exercise.This is condemnable and uncalled for.

It is undemocratic, uncultured and barbaric attempt to silence the labour."

The Secretary to the State Government, Taiwo Adeoluwa, described the workers' industrial action as illegal and politicallymotivated.

south-east | news

friday, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

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NAFDAC seizes N68.2m counterfeit products in Enugu Kenneth Ofoma ENUGU

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he National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confiscated fake drugs and unwholesome products worth N68.2 mil-

lion at the Akanu-Ibiam International Airport, Enugu.

Deputy Director Port Head, Mr. John Okwori, who disclosed this to journalists yesterday, said the consignments were unlabelled chemicals, drugs in Chinese language only, fake sex enhancing devices, counterfeit labels

of popular products like: Chelsea Dry gin and Amarula drink.

Okwori said 11 large cartons of chelsea dry gin labels that can be used to package gin worth N64, 764, 000 was seized.

The Deputy Director Port Head, Enugu said as part of NAFDAC ef-

forts to rid the country of fake and unwholesome products, the agency had arrested one Mr. Ugochukwu Uguegbulu for importing fake drug known as Gyno Aaktarh Vaginal capsules (200mg) from Dubai.

According to Okwori, other consignments seized by the agency were

imported without approval from NAFDAC and abandoned by the owners even as investigation was on to track the importers.

NAFDAC Port Head disclosed that they were under strict directive from Acting Director General of NAFDAC that the relatively young Akanu-Ibiam International

Airport should not be allowed to be turned into a smuggling channel and as such “we are proactive and equal to the task.”

“All travellers and importers are hereby warned to abide by National Regulations guiding imports/exports into the country,” Okwori said.

Umahi suspends ASUU chair, Bursar as strike paralyses Ebonyi varsity Again, Obi woos Build Africa to Nigeria Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI

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hree unions in Ebonyi State University (EBSU), yesterday joined the ongoing industrial action embarked upon by the university's chapter of the Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU).

The three unions are the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), NonAcademic Staff Union Educational Institutions (NASUEI) and National Association of Academic Technologies (NAAT).

Some of their demands include gazetting of staff of the university, lifting of embargo on promo-

tions, release of 2014/2015 promotions, imposition of tax on them and the refusal to confirm staff who got additional certificate among others.

When our correspondent visited the three campuses of the university, all the offices were under lock and key while the institution's premises were deserted.

Students processing their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) mobilization were seen looking helpless and dejected as there were no members of staff to attend to them.

Two of the students, Mr. Austine Onwe and Mr. Abraham Okorie expressed disappointment over the development.

Meanwhile, the strike yesterday took a new twist with the Chairman of the university's union, Professor Ndubuisi Idenyi and his Secretary, Professor Emeka Nwakpu suspended by the state government.

Governor Dave Umahi announced the suspension of the union leaders at a statewide broadcast in Abakaliki.

He said the ASUU Chairman and his Secretary who are lecturers in the university were suspended for misconduct.

He said the two professors who led other ASUU members to the state government on Monday over the strike, misinformed other lecturers on the position of the government

in resolving the matter.

"Let me emphasize that government will not discuss with ASUU in place because is illegal and they are not supposed to lead the lecturers’’, he said.

Umahi also announced the nullification of the appointment of the Bursar to the university, Mr. Chris Ngwuta. He said Ngwuta’s appointment did not follow due process.

He warned that the state government will by Monday next week stop the payment of salaries to the lecturers if they failed to return to class.

"There can’t be a situation in which the students are paying fees and they are not benefiting and we are using it to pay salaries."

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former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi has called on Build Africa, one of the biggest non-governmental organisations in the world in the area of promotion of education to include Nigeria in the scheme of their operations. The organisation is currently in many African countries, including Uganda and Kenya.

At a meeting in London yesterday, as a follow up to an earlier meeting in 2015 between Obi and the organization, Obi explained to them the commendable efforts of government at all levels in Nigeria in the education of its citizens, required its support considering the importance of education to mankind.

$61.72bn

L-R: A chieftain of APGA, Chief Andy Umuoji; National Chairman of APGA, Dr Victor Oye; member of the board of trustees of the party, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka; and others, during the Chairman's visit to the Ogirisi garden, Rojenny Games, Oba near Onitsha.… yesterday.

The total equities market capitalization of the Nigerian Stock Exchange as at Q4 2014.

Source: Nigerian Stock Exchange

Ohanaeze Ndigbo not working for Igbo interest, says ex-member Pamela Awka

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he leaders of the apexIgbo socio cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has been described as self centered people by an elder statesman and former member of the group, Chief Mike Nwogbo, saying that the members are working for their pockets and not working for the people they claim to represent.

He said: “What we have today in Ohaneze now are people who are selfish like the politicians and that is why things are not working in Igbo land. Look at the federal roads in the South East, yet we claim we have such group and representatives.”

Addressing journalists in Awka yesterday, the septuagenarian former Ohanaeze member called for the commercialization of all federal roads in the country by handing them to multinational companies for effective management.

He warned those criticizing the anti-corruption war by the President

Muhammadu Buhari to desist, saying that it was the only act capable of returning the country’s lost glory.

Nwogbo also criticized some Nigerians who pay lip service to the problems of Nigeria without proffering solutions to the problems.

Ebonyi suspends lecturer over sexual harassment Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI

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few days after Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State raised the alarm over sexual harassment by Inspectors and Supervisors from the state Ministry of Education, a senior lecturer with the state university has been suspended over an alleged involvement in sexual harassment.

Commissioner for Education, Prof John Eke, disclosed this to journalists in Abakaliki yesterday.

He said the ministry was investigating the sex scandal rocking the schools across the state,

Obi who said he was devoting the rest of his life to support the growth of education in Nigeria, enumerated areas requiring intervention to include the area of low male enrolment in some states in the South-East; low female enrolment in the North; drop out of school syndrome and absence of facilities in some schools.

However, the Chief Executive Officer of Build Africa, Linda Edwards, who said they invited Obi due to his contribution to education in Nigeria both as a Governor and after office, said her organization was studying possibility of including Nigeria in countries of their intervention following the 2015 meeting.

adding that one lecturer in the Ebonyi State University has been placed on indefinite suspension pending the outcome of a reports on sex allegation leveled against him.

“We have zero tolerance on sexual harassment on our children. There is a case in the university where a lecturer was suspended and we are investigating the case and the ministry is now working on that.”

He announced that the state would ban teachers who were indicted in examination malpractices for five years from supervising WAEC and other external examinations for their alleged involvement in examination malpractices.

Enugu to prosecute suspects over Nimbo massacre

Charles Onyekwere ENUGU

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nugu State government has ordered the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Inspector General of Police to transmit original case file of suspects arrested in connection with Ukpabi Nimbo incident in Uzo-Uwani Local Council of the state to enable it begin their trial.

This followed an alleged refusal by the Kogi State High Court presided over

by Justice H.A Olusiyi to grant application for leave to enable the police pre-

fer charges against five suspects arrested on May 25 and a suit by the Civil Rights Realization and Advancement Network (CRRAN) against the Attorney general of Enugu State over his alleged inability to prosecute the suspects.

The suspects, Mohammed Zurai, Ciroma Musa, Saleh Adamu, Suleiman Laute and Haruna Laute had been arrested and paraded by the immediate past Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase in connection with the massacre, stressing that there were overwhelming evidence which included video recording of the in-

cident found on one of the suspects.

CRRAN had on July 29 written the Enugu Attorney General to invoke his constitutional power and demand the case file from police and prosecute the suspects since the offence was committed in Enugu.

Piqued by the manner the letter was handled in prosecuting the alleged suspects,CRRAN had on September last month, dragged the Enugu Attorney General and Inspector general of Police to court, asking it to declare illegal the continued detention of the suspects by the police without trial.

42 News|SOUTH-SOUTH

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

History as Oba Ewuare 11 emerges 39th Benin monarch Cajegtan Mmuta BENIN

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istory was made yesterday in Benin, the capital of Edo State, when the 39th Oba of Benin Kingdom, His Royal Highness, Eheneden Erediauwa, Ewuare 11, was crowned in a colourful ceremony attended by dig-

lOsibanjo, Oshiomhole, Ooni, Sultan of Sokoto, Emir of Kano, others honour him nitaries from all walks of life both within and outside the state.

At the epoch event yesterday were eminent personalities from outside the country.

The new Oba, whose royal name is Oba Ewuare

Delta warns judicial workers against misconduct Dominic Adewole ASABA

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he Delta State government has warned judicial officers in the state to beware of conducts that are capable of derailing efficient delivery of justice in the state.

The government emphasised on tightening measures that would build a strong, competent and reliable workforce capable of delivering excellent service in the state.

The state, which took staff of its Ministry of Justice in various areas

of the law, administrative matters and well as the civil service rules, warned them against judicial misconducts.

The Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Mr. Peter Mrakpor, during a oneday retraining exercise in Asaba yesterday, said since sustained capacity building was crucial to the realisation of governmental policies and programmes, capacity training programmes for judicial workers would continue to take centre stage in the Okowa administration’s agenda.

APC vows to expose PDP’s moves to bribe Supreme Court judges Chris Ejim Yenagoa

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he leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State has vowed to expose every move by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to bribe Supreme Court judges to swing the 2016 Bayelsa State gubernatorial election petition in favour of his party candidate, noting that it will fight to the end to get justice for the people.

In a statement signed by the state Publicity Secretary, Hon. Fortune Panebi, the party submitted that all the syndicates involved in the transfer

of funds meant for civil servants’ salaries used as bribe will be investigated and prosecuted, adding that the pre and post-election activities has shown how desperate the Dickson administration is in the quest for power.

The party also averred that it was aware of the latest moves by the PDP to move high powered delegations to Abuja to influence the up-coming Supreme Court judgement, adding that the PDP was already boasting that most of the judges were loyalists appointed during the last administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Ethnicity, bane of environmental problems – Activist Ola James Warri

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xecutive Director, Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth (ERA/FoEN), Dr. Godwin Uyi Ojo, yesterday blamed the poor handling of environmental issues facing the country on ethnicity rather than on national interest.

Ojo, who spoke at an ERA/FoEN workshop for journalists in Warri, Delta State, emphasised the need for journalists to engage in in-depth reporting of the environment so as to enable

stakeholders identify, pursue and exhaustively tackle the mammoth environmental issues affecting the country.

According to him, there are lots of diverse environmental issues across the country that was under reported adding; “We must note that the Nigerian environment is in a parlous state. From the north, to the middle belt, down to the southern states, there are environmental issues that are not exhaustively treated. Issues that make headlines most times are off key.”

11, was crowned amid high level traditional rites in the inner chamber of the ancient Usama palace on Siluko road in the capital city, before he was officially presented to the guests amid cheers and jubilation.

He had for months passed through several traditional and cultural rites held at notable shrines in the city to fortify him for the high position shortly after his father Oba Erediauwa joined his ancestors, a feat that marks him out as the Omo N’Oba Nedo Uku Akpolokolo (the Mighty One) While the ceremony lasted, the entire capital city was shut down by security operatives made up of the army, policemen, members of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Peace

Corps and other military and para-military outfits.

Major roads leading to the city were also shut to motorists even as all the known markets and business outfits to enable people witness the historymaking event.

Among notable dignitaries that graced the occasion include the presidential delegation led by the Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osibanjo, Alhaji Aliko Dangite, Captain Hosa Okunbo (rtd), the Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Muhammadu Abubakar Sa’ad, Emir of Kano, Alhaji Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Esama of Benin Kingdom and Chief Gabriel Igbinedion.

Also at the ceremony are Governor Ibrahim Dankwmbo of Gombe State, Information Minister, Mr. Ali Mohammed,

Governor Abiola Ajumobi of Oyo State, Minister of State for Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John OdigieOyegun and the Edo State Governor-elect, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

Also on the roll call are His Royal Highness, Godfrey Ikenwoli Emiko, the Olu of Warri, Delta State, Obi of Onitsha, HRH Igwe Achebe, members of the national and state assemblies and commissioners within and outside the state, the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Mr. Chris Eze Madumere among many others.

The Oba was later escorted from the Usama palace by members of the Ekasa royal troupe to Itsekhere Bridge habouring River Omi, where he performed the traditional symbolic crossover of the bridge to Benin and into the VIP lounge, where guests were treated to a sumptuous and lavish

entertainment at Urho Opota Hall near the newly constructed Benin Palace.

He was also accompanied to the Kings Square by thousands of admirers and residents of the city made up of the aged, women and children who cheered at the royal procession to the tradition bridge while hundreds of palace chiefs and royal family members waited patiently at the popular traditional spot for his arrival to carry out the allimportant rite.

Oba Ewuare 11 stormed the Urho Opota VIP hall in richly knitted traditional regalia made completely of beads and was officially presented by top Usama chiefs before the guests amidst brief rites and drumbeats.

The chief host, Governor Adams Oshiomhole, later presented the Staff of Office to the new monarch, an action that was seen as the first to be carried out by a civilian governor in the state since its creation.

L-R: Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike; Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Projects, Mr. Cyril Dum-White, and former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Mr Austin Opara, during the inspection of ongoing construction of Port Harcourt Pleasure Park by the governor, in Port Harcourt .… yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Rivers APC wants Okoro’s allegation against Amaechi withdrawn Emmanuel Masha Port Harcourt

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ivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday gave Jus-

tice Inyang Okoro of the Supreme Court one week to withdraw the bribery allegation he made against the Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, or risk going to jail.

The party hinged its threat on the allegation that Okoro contravened the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000, berating the justice for making wild and baseless allegations against

Intervene in Delta’s flood crisis, Assembly tells FG Dominic Adewole ASABA

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elta State House of Assembly yesterday passed a resolution demanding the immediate intervention of the Federal Government in the two riverine communities that were sacked by flood in the state.

The communities in Burutu and Bomadi Local Government Areas were recently submerged

by flood caused by the overflow of the rivers in the area.

In a motion brought under matters of urgent public importance by the member representing Burutu Constituency I, Chief Daniel Yingi, the House called on Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to direct the Commissioner, Bureau for Special Duties, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) as well as liaise with the National Emergency Man-

agement Agency (NEMA), to provide relief materials to the victims ‘to cushion the effects of the disaster which swept away over 70 communities in Burutu alone.’

Leading debate on the motion, Yingi, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Environment, Oil and Gas said: “Several communities in Burutu have been submerged by flood and their means of livelihood have been greatly affected.”

Amaechi in his letter to the National Judicial Council (NJC), following his recent arrest by the Department of State Service (DSS) for alleged corruption.

The APC Chairman, Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, who issued the threat in a statement, accused Okoro of attempting to deceive Nigerians.

He faulted the date quoted by Okoro in his letter to the NJC, explaining that the judgement in the Rivers State governorship election dispute was given by the Supreme Court on January 27, 2015, but that Justice Okoro in his letter to the NJC claimed that Rt. Hon. Amaechi tried to bribe him on February 1, 2015 to influence a ruling made four days earlier.

He said: “If we may ask Justice Okoro, why should Amaechi or anybody attempt to bribe him for an election upturned by both the Tribunal and the Appeal Court?”

friday, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Kano to spend N3.7bn on projects Muhammad Kabir KANO

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he Kano State Government has approved a total of N3.7 billion for the execution of 13 projects across the state.

Addressing newsmen yesterday at the Government House on the outcome of the executive council meeting presided over by Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, yesterday the Commissioner for Information, Muhammad Garba, noted that 45 per cent of the approved amount would be financed from the state government’s

internally generated revenue.

Garba explained that Ganduje’s administration was mindful of the current financial crunch facing the nation and as such every single kobo generated would be used judicially for the well-being of the people of the state.

The commissioner, who expressed delight over the level of patriotism of the people towards the government by paying their taxes and other revenues as at when due, however, assured them of the government's desire in making the state great through prudent management of its resources.

-13.15%

He said part of the projects already approved by the executive council include six number rural access roads at the cost of N859,789, 381.26 that would be executed through direct labour.

Garba said further that the purpose of the rural roads was to facilitate the transportation of farm produce from the various farms to the markets, adding that the state government will cover about 100 km of such roads.

Other projects approved for execution, according to the commissioner, include the N16 million post training packages for 72 graduates, who were trained as automotive mechanics under

the Ganduje Automotive Training Programme.

Specifically, he said another N208.3 million had been approved for his office for another batch of 100 trainees that will undergo the automotive training out of which 50 of them would be female mechanics.

"N349.856 million had been approved for the completion of MinjibirUngogo Roads that the present administration inherited from the past government, while N615.

412 million was approved for Dungurawa-Dawakin Tofa Roads construction and renovation of Lungu Kalkal concrete and inter locking projects," Garba stressed.

43 Niger moves to stop emergence of slums north | news

Dan Atori MINNA

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s part of efforts to ensure that all activities carried out on any parcel of land in the state are registered and approved to ensure conformity with government's goals, the Niger State government has said it will stop the development of new areas and the emergence of slums in the major cities in the state.

The state Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Alhaji Haliru Jikantoro disclosed this yesterday during the golden jubilee celebration of the state chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners in Minna, the state capital.

He said that no fewer

than 21 slum settlements had already been identified in the four major towns in the state, noting that the governor, in the absence of updated master plan, had approved the declaration of some road corridors and the emerging new areas as Special Planning Areas (SPAs).

According to him, "the state capital and other urban areas have been developing without any significant plan to guide development as an interim measure to stop further haphazard growth.”

The ministry, he said was aiming at ensuring that all activities on land on these Special Planning Areas are registered and approved to ensure their conformity with the general goals of the government.

The percentage by which the total equities market capitalization of the NSE dropped from Jan. 2015 – Dec. 2014).

Source: Nigerian Stock Exchange

Tiv monarch to be sworn in with Holy Bible Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

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s the three-day prayer and fasting programme declared by Governor Samuel Ortom to herald the emergence of the new paramount ruler for the Tiv nation ended, there is growing tension among the people of the state following the governor's declaration that the new Tor Tiv would be sworn-in with a Holy Bible and not with 'Swem', the oracle of the people.

The governor, who declared this yesterday at the Government House, said henceforth, traditional rulers would take oath of office with a copy of the Holy Bible in their hands.

Ortom said the practice had become imperative since the people had relied on 'Swem' and other gods in the past, which have continued to fail them in the time of trouble.

The governor said: "No traditional ruler in Benue State will again be allowed to be involved in partisan

politics. The next Tor Tiv and other chiefs that will emerge soon will take the oath of office with the Bible in their hands. Our people have tried swem but it failed us when we needed a defender against invaders. We will follow and obey God this time and allow His interest to prevail."

According to him, Swem and other gods have disappointed the people, so Benue State would commit traditional institutions to God’s hands, Who has taken over the control of the state during the dedication of the state to God on May 30, this year.

Ortom said that the traditional rulers had agreed that they would no longer participate in politics, stressing that any person that tried to scuttle the selection of traditional rulers under the law would not enjoy the fruits of the land.

The governor, therefore, advised the people to always be truthful, saying only the truth can set the Benue people free.

Abuja indigenes protesting alleged take-over of their indigenous lands by the military in Abuja …yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Kebbi: NULGE holds talks over unpaid salaries Abubakar Abdul Birnin Kebbi

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he leadership of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employee (NULEGE) Kebbi State chapter and state government are holding talks over the non-payment of one-month salaries to the local government council workers in the state.

The meeting, which began about 4pm and lasted for four hours, was held with the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) at the Cabinet Office, Birnin Kebbi.

Briefing newsmen shortly after the meeting, the state NULEGE Chairman, Comrade Farouk Sadiq said that the meeting was successful as the state government had agreed to pay the salary while the verification exercise would be continued.

He appealed to the members of staff of the local government council that the delay in the payment of the last month’s (September) salaries across the 21 LGAs was due to the ongoing verification exercise of the workers that is being carried out by the state government.

While adding that the aim of the exercise was to identify the genuine workers in the local government councils, he said: "You see this verification is not aimed to witch-hunt any worker, but to fish-out corrupt practice at the local government level. We urged the government to pay the workers while by the exercise should continue because the hardship the workers are facing."

The NULGE chair explained further that the meeting, which was attended by the Local Government Council Treasurers, the Chairman of Local

Government Service Commission and other prominent stakeholders, was aimed at restoring sanity in the system and resolve the crisis at the local government level.

He, however, assured the workers, whose names were omitted or short paid, as well as the genuine workers would be given consideration by forwarding their list to the government for further action.

"I want them to remain calm as the union would not allow any local government staff with genuine case to suffer any unnecessary hardship," he explained.

Ortom declares support for FG's social investment scheme Quela birds destroy farm produce in North-East Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

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enue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has indicated his administration's willingness to support the social investment programme of the Federal Government.

This was just as he warned the newly appointed local government council sole administrators not to engage in corruption and other sharp activities that could lead them to jail.

Ortom, who declared this while receiving the Programme Manager of the National Home Grown School Feeding Programme, Abimbola Adesanmi at the Government House, said his administration has offered support for the programme to ensure effective coordination of the home grown school feeding programme and other activities of the social investment programme.

The governor, who reiterated his administration's commitment to-

wards making the school feeding programme to be of great benefit to school children, farmers and food vendors, spoke while declaring open a three-day stakeholders' workshop on the home grown school feeding programme.

The workshop was organised by the state government in collaboration with the Vice President's Office.

Ortom said value would be added to the economy through the feeding programme.

Ibrahim Abdul Yola

P

easant farmers in the North Eastern part of the country are now counting their losses following the invasion of Quela birds that destroyed farm produce as the harvest season begin.

This was as farmers commenced intensive campaign to control the menace in the affected 12 front-line states.

It has been gathered

that locusts, grasshoppers and quela birds from Niger Republic had found their way into the country and destroying farmlands in the state, a development which the farmer lamented might cause food crisis in Nigeria.

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, had earlier warned that if the locusts, grasshoppers and quela birds from Niger Republic were not checked and controlled,

Nigeria would soon face severe food crisis.

The 12 frontline states affected by the pests and birds are Jigawa, Gombe, Bauchi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Yobe, Borno, Adamawa, Katsina, Taraba and Kano.

Though, while progress was made in some areas to curtail the menace, farmers in Yobe, Gombe, Adamawa and Borno States said the swamps are threats to bumper harvests, calling for immediate action.

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NEWS | national

friday, october 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

American scholar to world leaders: Promote global peace with ‘one spirit’ Sulaiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti

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rof Cynthia Jackson-Hammond, President, Central State University, Wilberforce Island, Ohio, United States of America, yesterday urged the entire humanity to imbibe what she called "the spirit of One", saying attitude of oneness, brotherliness and fellow-feeling would promote world peace.

The scholar, who spoke at Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), yesterday while delivering a lecture on ‘The Spirit of One’, in commemoration of the 2016 Convocation ceremony of the university, said racism and religious bigotry fuel pervasive terrorism and racial discrimination across the

globe, insisting only a feeling of 'one' would promote human dignity.

In attendance at the lecture were former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Alfa Belgore, former Governor of the then Western Region, Gen David Jemibewon, former Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof Ibidapo Obe, former Chairman Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and an eminet Jurist, Justice Emmanuel Ayoola, UNESCO Regional Director, Mr Bennot Sossou and others.

Jackson-Hammond commended the Federal Government on the release of 21 Chibok girls by the Boko Haram insurgents, insisting it was time the entire humanity saw one another as brothers, irrespective of race, colour or

religion.

Jackson-Hammond said: “Having the spirit of one, shows that we want to move together without bias. We have to be brothers and sisters, irrespective of whatever we represent in religion, colour or background. We must treat ourselves with dignity because as God's creatures we all deserve respect.

“We must teach our younger generations how to believe in the spirit of unity because whatever we do go into their psyche. We must make them embrace service, protocol and civility, because this is the ba-

sis for any man to operate anywhere in the world.”

For what she described as Chief Afe Babalola's sterling contributions to scholarship and educational advancement, Jackson-Hammond decorated ABUAD's founder with a honourary title of the membership of the Central State University, Ohio.

She also lamented the devastation brought upon humanity by the ill of terrorism, saying “the release of these girls is what I can describe as 21 miracles of this era. The people must desist from this idea of taking up arms to perpetrate

indiscriminate killings and destruction of their country and other nations, this is man's inhumanity to man.”

Jackson-Hammond pledged the Institution she represented would replicate all the legacies she had learnt in ABUAD, praising Babalola for seeing education as a tool for inculcating twin ideals of morality and civility and impacting positively on the society generally.

Aare Afe said the philosophy behind the establishment of ABUAD was to bring a newness to Nigeria's education system,

L-R: Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs Titi LaoyeTomori; Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi; and his Osun State counterpart, Rauf Aregbesola, at a meeting to resolve the disagreement on the ownership and management of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, between the two owner states, in Ibadan... on Wednesday.

N106.00bn

The total amount of the Conglomerates sector of the Nigeria Stock Exchange for 2015 Q4.

Source: Nigerian Stock Exchange

Senate queries NERC over liquidity crunch Johnchuks Onuanyim Abuja

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he Senate Committee on Power has queried the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) over the liquidity crunch in the Power Sector.

Also the Committee expressed doubt on the financial and technical ability of the private investors in the power sector.

The Committee members, led by the Chairman, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe were on oversight visits at the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) where they queried the reduction in cash collection which they claimed notched N15billion before privatisation but to about N5billion, even as electricity distribution companies relied on estimated billing.

The statement from the Head, Public Affairs Department of NERC, Dr. Usman Abba Arabi

qouted Abaribe as asking: “Are you sure the privatisation of the power sector is producing the needed result with the under performance by the new investors”, even as he assured of his Committee’s readiness to give the needed empowerment to the Commission to ensure that it perform its regulatory functions effectively.

In his own remarks, the acting Chairman, Dr. Anthony Akah, said that the Commission was changing its regulatory approach from being soft handed as was adopted when the operators came on board three years ago to strict applications of rules and regulation to ensure operators in the value chain play by the rules and regulations.

Akah said that such strict applications of rules and regulations would be balanced with efforts to remove obstacles militating against optimal performance of licencees in the power sector.

Police officers sues Fashola, others over forceful eviction Akeem Nafiu

1

6 Senior Officers of the Nigeria Police Force has dragged the Minister of Works, Housing and Power, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) and two others before Justice Hadizah Shagari of a Federal High Court in Lagos over alleged forceful eviction from their homes.

Presidential Committee on implementation of White Paper on a commission of enquiry into the

alienation of Federal Government landed property and one DCP Abubakar Aliyu of the Works Department, Police force Headquaters Annex, Lagos, were joined as co-defendants in a suit before the judge.

Suing are DCP Dasuki Galadanchi, DCP Emmanuel Odwong, DCP Mansur Mohammed, DCP Efunsola Sowemimo, DCP Eguae Udofia, DCP John Ekowhiro, ACP Dorathy Ikpen and ACP Mary George.

noting “this country has about 300 ethnic groups and many religions. In some universities, physical appearances of some can convey the religion they practice but this is not so in ABUAD. The moment you are on campus, no room for racism or religious fanaticism. Students and staff see themselves as one.

He pledged his university would continue to partner with high rated universities across the globe to improve on the Institution's international rating especially on the Webometric ladder.

Fani-Kayode raises the alarm over EFCC’s planned re-arrest Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

F

ormer Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has raised the alarm of a plan by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to rearrest and detain him for yet another charge.

Fani-Kayode who was granted bail by a Federal High Court in Lagos about two months ago after spending over 70 days in EFCC custody, said he might be re-arrested this Friday as he appear in court to attend to his trial in connection with the presidential campaign

funds charges against him.

"If they do not arrest me then they will arrest me and seek to detain me for as long as possible soon after that. Whichever way they will come and I am ready for them. I am not running," he said.

The former Aviation Minister was Director, Media of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Campaign Orhanisationin 2015.

He is presently standing trial before a Federal High Court, Lagos for allegedly receiving N26 million from the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki in 2014.

In a statement yesterday, Fani-Kayode said

the anti-graft agency was desperate to keep him out of circulation and off the streets, adding that he was "reliably informed that they were ordered to ensure that the instruction is from the Presidency.

"They are also eager to arrest and detain my wife and my eight-month old son just to hurt and spite me even though they have done absolutely nothing wrong."

Mrs. Fani-Kayode and his son were detained for some hours by the EFCC this week, at a bank premises in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State where she had gone for transactions before they were rescued by the state governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose.

According Fani-Kayode, when arrested and detained, the EFCC would fabricate allegations against him and his family, and sold to the media and members of the public as new matters which they had 'just discovered' and 'fresh allegations.'

"They will even claim that I have admitted to certain crimes, that I have been badly implicated and that I in turn have implicated other people," he added.

He said the EFCC's plan is to do anything to demonise, humiliate, destroy, convict on the pages of newspapers and detain indefinately ...those that they hate and their perceived enemies.

How FAAN ignored judgement on MMA2 concession, by Babalakin T he Chairman of the Bi- Courtney Group, Dr. Wale Babalakin SAN, said yesterdaythat the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has violated and desecrated the principles of the rule of law following its refusal to comply with court judgments on his company's concession of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2).

Babalakin said this during his presentation to the Federal House of Representatives Committee on Aviation in Abuja on 'the need to rescue the airline industry

from imminent collapse'.

In an explosive session that saw dramatic exchanges involving several stakeholders including FAAN, the Ministry of Aviation and Airport Workers' Unions, Babalakin insisted that the concession had been very transparent.

Making reference to a memorandum earlier submitted to the panel, entitled, 'the need to comply with the laws of Nigeria', the famous lawyer declared that, "the time has come to bring into the open completely the issue of BiCourtney's concession."

Speaking on Day Three of the hearing, he flayed comments attributed at an earlier session to the Honourable Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, who had suggested that the concession was not transparent, insisting that "that statement is totally false and anybody making such is not dealing with facts."

Babalakin declared: "The Minister of Aviation passed adverse statements when he appeared at this hearing. We want to state that that is his personal opinion."

Going into the history of the concession, originally granted to Sanderton Ventures Ltd (SVL) and later taken over by Bi-Courtney as reserved bidders after SVL' failure to deliver, Babalakin accused FAAN of ineptitude in virtually all of its dealings regarding the concession.

"If FAAN is not embarrassed, we feel totally disgraced as Nigerians."

He stated that FAAN pays N50m per month as damages to Sanderton, noting that this was due to the agency's failure to defend itself.

45

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Did you know?

Sport Adeolu Johnson ABUJA

A

for mer Super Eagles defender, Chikelue Iloenyosi, has thrown his weight behind the demand by the senior national team players to be paid their bonuses and allowances in Dollars.

The Eagles had requested their outstanding bonuses especially the World Cup qualifying away victory against Zambia be paid in Dollars.

Iloenyosi who featured for the Eagles in late 90s said it was like that during their time and if the current players want it, it’s okay.

“It is their time and they are free to ask for whatever they feel they deserved. My only advice to them is to make sure they give more than 100 per cent and ensure they get the World Cup ticket. The players should show more commitment as they do at their various clubs in Europe and across the world,” he added.

The Eagles have been paid most of their allowances and bonuses in Naira due to the poor finances of the NFF. Each player was paid a million naira as win bonus for last month’s AFCON qualifier win over Tanzania. The exchange rate was at the official rate of 200 naira per dollar.

The black market rate is now put at N470 to a Dollar.

The Eagles have now made it clear this will be the last time they will receive this payment in naira.

They are entitled to $5000 each for this month’s World Cup qualifier win against

Iloenyosi backs dollar pay for Eagles

Zambia in Ndola.

This payment has not been settled and the players said they expect to be paid in dollars.

“Mikel has told the NFF leadership they will no longer receive their match bonus in Naira. They want to be paid in Dollars,” a top source informed.

“It will now be interesting how the NFF will handle this challenge ahead of the must-win match against Algeria in Uyo next month.”

Iloenyosi however exuded confidence that the Eagles would do enough to pick the sole ticket in Group B to be in Russia.

“First, we need to beat Algeria well next month and wait for the decisive backto-back legs with Cameroon next year.

“Honestly I expect nothing but victory in November, we have started well, and I believe we have everything well put together.

“The players are key, as

long as they play to instructions, I believe the team will secure all the points it requires. The good thing is that they won the away match that will give them the confidence they need to forge ahead. And they need to key into that, they should not lose focus,” he said.

Iloenyosi asked Nigerians to support the team financially and with prayers to enable Nigeria hoist her flag in Russia in 2018.

Egypt’s Tarek Hamed (left) vies for the ball against Nigeria’s Oghenekaro Etebo

The Sport Team Adekunle Salami Group Sport Editor

Emmanuel Tobi Assistant Sport Editor

Ajibade Olusesan Sport Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya Sport Correspondent

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Sport News

That Everton goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg on Saturday in the tie against Man City which ended 1-1 made two penalty saves to become the first goalie to do so in EPL history.

Iwobi: Arsenal keen on winning mentality

46

Wounded Assar ready for Quadri’s faceoff at African Cup Ajibade Olusesan

E

gypt’s Omar Assar is ready for a showdown with his fiercest rival Aruna Quadri when the 2016 ITTF African Senior Championship serves off in Morocco Beaten in the final of the 2016 African Top 16 Cup in Sudan earlier this year by his continental archrival –Quadri, bundled out in the second round of the Rio Olympic Games by Turkey’s Lei Kou and fired up by these defeats, Assar is heading to Morocco, a wounded lion.

The 2015 African Games gold medalist has been shaping for the championship in Germany and he hopes his preparation would be enough to aid his success in Morocco.

“I have been preparing very well for this event and I am looking forward to a great performance. I had two weeks of physical, mental and technical preparation in Germany where I had my last training camp so I can say I am looking forward to a good performance in Morocco.”

“Well, I must acknowledge that Quadri Aruna has been playing in a good level in the French league and international events so it will be interesting to see our match in Morocco especially in the men’s singles,” he said.

As an inspiration to the Egyptian team, Assar believes Egypt would be the team to beat to the overall title in Morocco.

“I do believe that Egypt is the strongest country in Africa and I trust my teammates and coaches that they can show that in Morocco. I am looking forward to a classic final between Egypt and Nigeria and this kind of match has always been very fun to play and to watch for the spectators.

I can also see that Tunisia now has a better team,” he added.

FIFA rankings: Eagles climb four places Nigeria now 60th in the world, 11th in Africa

Emmanuel Tobi

T

he Super Eagles have moved four places from 64th to 60th in the latest FIFA rankings released on Thursday following the team’s superlative performance during last month’s World Cup qualifier after defeating Zambia 2-1.

Nigeria also moved from 14th in Africa to 11th after a point increase of 28 from 534 in September to 562 in the latest rankings for October 2016.

Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup qualifier group opponents, Algeria, dropped from second to third

position on the continent and 35th in the world.

Cote d’Ivoire maintained its top position in Africa, after improving from 34th to 31st position in the rankings. Senegal also moved seven places from 39th to 32nd position, by climbing from third to second position on the continent.

Tunisia, Ghana Egypt, Congo DR and Congo followed in that order. Another Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup qualifiers opponents, the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon are placed above Nigeria in 59th, while Zambia are in 94th on the ranking table.

The next FIFA/Coca-Cola ranking is expected to be released 24 November, 2016.

Africa’s Top 10: 1 Cote d’Ivoire (31st) 2 Senegal (32nd) 3 Algeria (35th) 4 Tunisia (38th) 5 Ghana (45th) 6 Egypt (46th) 7 Congo DR (49th) 8 Congo (55th) 9 Mali (58th) 10 Cameroon (59th)

NUJ Games: New Telegraph battle The Sun, Vanguard, Champions

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SPORT NEWS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Perez on course to win Governor’s Cup Tennis 2nd Leg Olusesan Ajibade

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ournament number one seed in the men’s category, Spain’s Enrique Lopez-Perez is justifying his rating in this year’s Governor’s Cup Lagos Tennis Championship as he is cruising his way to winning the second leg (Futures 6) of the competition.

On Thursday, Lopez-Perez, who won Futures 5 last weekend, had a smooth ride to the semi final as he defeated number 8 seed, Maciej Smola of Poland in straight set of 7-6,7-5 to set up a clash against Moez Echargui of Tunisia on Friday. Moez defeated Sasi Kumar Mukund of India in 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 match.

Injured Egyptian KarimMohamed Maamoun could not complete his game against Gianni Mina of France as he retired in the second leg of the match that was stopped at 6-1,2-0.

The French will battle compatriot Calvin Hemery in the semi final. Hemery beat Boy Westerhof from The Netherlands 6-2,7-6,6-1 game.

In the Women’s Singles, number 7 seed, Julia Terziyska from Bulgaria upset number 4 seed,Valeriya Strakhova of Ukraine in

straight set of 6-0,6-4 to set up a semi final tie against first leg winner, Tadeja Majeric from Slovakia who beat Omar’s Fatma Al-Nabhani in the quarter finals.

Conny Perrin of Switzerland beats Tessah Andrianjaftrimo of France in 6-4,1-6,6-4 game. Perrin, runner up in Futures 5 last week, will face number one seed, Valetini Grammatikopoulou from Greece who defeated Deniz Khazaniuk of Israel in 7-6,4-6,6-1 game.

Meanwhile, Gover nor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, will be special guest of honour during the closing ceremony of the 16th edition of the Gover nor’s Cup Lagos Tennis Championship on Saturday.

While the women’s singles final will begin by 12:30pm, the men’s singles final will start by 3pm,a match the Governor and his entourage will watch.

As expected, the final ceremony will be a colourful one with the Local Organising Committee, promising a glamorous event. Secondary schools students across Lagos State and many tennis pundits will storm the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club for the final ceremony.

Iwobi: Arsenal keen on winning mentality Emmanuel Tobi

A

rsenal youngster Alex Iwobi says the players have been working on their mentality and are ready to take each match as it comes.

Iwobi came off the bench in The Gunners’ 6-0 thrashing of Ludogorets Wednesday night, but has started the last four English Premier League games for his side while having the freedom to pick up both wide and central positions.

The 20-year-old has insisted that the Champions League win was the biggest margin of victory that he has been associated with as a senior player, and that the team can take momentum from the manner of the victory in the away trip in November.

“We’re not trying to get ahead of ourselves, we’re taking each game as it comes,” Iwobi told Arsenal‘s official website.

“It’s basically our mental side that we were working on. We’ve still added that to our game and we believed if we’re mentally prepared in ourselves for this game that we would do well in November and it won’t be such a tough time, hopefully.”

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was handed his first start at the Emirates Wednesday night and filled in for Iwobi excellently, picking up a goal and an assist.

Olympic team officials get Japanese largesse Players to receive gift this week

S

ome officials of the Nigeria team to the Rio Olympics have already received their cash from the $390,000 donated by a Japanese admirer at the games, Africanfootball.com exclusively reports.

The officials each received $14,000.

It was understood that the cash backup for the cheques has finally come through more than two months after the donation and already a number of officials have received their payments.

Wealthy Japanese surgeon Katsuya Takasu was highly impressed with the performance of the Samson Siasia-led team to Rio 2016 despite the many hurdles they faced and wrote out two cheques, one in favour of Siasia and the other for Chelsea star Mikel Obi. The team agreed that the players be paid by Mikel, while Siasia sort out the officials.

The documentation for the cheque in Mikel’s name is expected to be completed this week for the players to also smile to the bank shortly.

Both players and officials had earlier expressed fears after the long delay it took to cash the cheques.

Nigeria finished third at the Rio Olympics to complete a football Olympics medals set – Gold in 1996, silver in 2008 and bronze in 2016.

Permanent Secretary, Kwara State Ministry of Education, Mariam Ayodeji-Garba (left) and Manager, Sponsorship, Etisalat Nigeria, Orah Egwu, with the Etisalat School Cup season 3 trophy in Ilorin on Tuesday.

Etisalat U-15: Abuja, Kwara shine at Ilorin play-offs I

t was battle of supremacy among state school teams competing in the ongoing season three of the Etisalat U-15 School Cup football competition with Abuja and Kwara state dictating proceedings at the Ilorin centre.

The participating states include Kwara, Kogi, Nassarawa, Niger, Plateau, FCT, Benue and Cross River States with two states battling for the two slots available to qualify for the Lagos National Finals billed to hold in November.

FOSLA Academy, Abuja and Socrates Secondary School, Kwara proved a handful to their respective opponents in the matches decided inside the mainbowl of the Ilorin Township Stadium.

FOSLA Academy won 3-1

against Alhaji Azhan International College, Kogi, while Kwara team got a 1-0 victory over Cross River team courtesy of Saheed Bakare who scored in the 36th minute.

The Abuja team continued their fine form with a 5-0 hammering of their counterparts from Nassarawa State, Mbagwa Commercial Secondary School while Niger defeated Plateau 2-0.

The national champion of the 2016 edition will receive the trophy and a cash prize of N2 million educational award while its players will go home with N50,000 each. The second-placed team will go home with N1 million with the players pocketing extra N30,000 each while the third-placed winner will have the sum of N750,000.00 for its efforts with its players receiving N20,000.00 each.

Iwobi (right)

Med-View NUJ Games

New Telegraph battle The Sun, Vanguard, Champions N

ew Telegraph Strikers have been drawn against The Sun, Vanguard, The Champions newspapers in Group B of the football event as the 2016 edition of the Nigeria Union of Journalist Games sponsored by Med-View Arlines kicks off on Monday, October 24 at the Legacy pitch of the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos.

In a draw conducted in Lagos on Thursday, defending champions, Lagos Information will compete with The Nation, The Detective and Voice of Nigeria in Group A with LTV, Correspondents Chapel, New Nigerian and Business Plus battle in Group C while DAAR Communications, FRCN, Federal Infor-

mation and The Source slug it out in Group D. Chairman of Lagos NUJ, Deji Elumoye, praised Med-View Airlines for their consistency and financial support to the Games, while welcoming Big Cola on board.

“We are proud of MedView Airlines for being there with us for the past three years.

“We will be having top dignitaries when the game starts with a March past of the participatory Chapels on Monday while indoor games such as Chess, Ayo Olopon ,Scrabble, Athletics, Table Tennis will begin on Tuesday at the SWAN Secretariat,” he added.

Siasia in Qatar for top coaching job

F

ormer Nigeria coach Samson Siasia is now in oil-rich Qatar in connection with a lucrative top coaching post.

“Siasia flew out to Qatar Thursday afternoon. He is there to discuss a coaching post,” a top source informed.

Over time, Siasia has been variously linked with overseas coaching jobs.

The former Super Eagles coach led Nigeria to win bronze at the Rio Olympics in August.

His contract as Nigeria Olympic team coach ended with that tournament.

It was further learnt that he had already made plans to take some members of

his backroom staff from the Olympics should he finally secure the job.

He was caretaker Eagles coach for an AFCON qualifier double header against Egypt in March.

Besides coaching the Nigeria’s U-20s, Siasia has also handled Heartland FC and now defunct JUTH FC of Jos.

Siasia

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

47

Sanctity of Truth

On Marble

Women love us for our defects. If we have enough of them, they will forgive us everything, even our gigantic intellects.

—Oscar Wilde

Emeka Obasi Massaging Madam Aisha’s kitchen

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016

N150

}14

What do women want in their men? soul who takes life too seriously?

INTELLIGENCE It is terrible when your man cannot discuss any topic outside his profession. He’s simply a dullard.

Give a woman a man who is versatile, one who knows a bit of everything, and she won’t be shamed before her friends.

A GOOD PROVIDER Most women, no matter the level of their education, prefer men who can meet more than 50 per cent of their needs. They want men who have a sense of responsibility and live up to their calling as husbands and fathers. No woman wants a man who always comes up with one tale or the other each time you ask for money.

HANDSOME AND SEXY Lurking at the back of every woman’s mind is the image of her Prince Charming-tall, dark, muscular, strong teeth, handsome face, beautiful smile, everything she wants. A man whose smile can melt her heart and light up her life.

LOVE IN TOKYO: All babes want this good morning kiss PHOTO: WWW.cdn.xonecole.com

H

ave you ever asked yourself what your girlfriends see in you and why there are so many of them at the same time? You guess it’s the bulge in your trousers?

Don’t forget the next guy’s trousers also have a bulge. Why don’t you consider these qualities? They are some of the reasons why some men have girls buzzing around them and why others have to toil and sweat before they get a kiss a year.

ROMANCE Every woman, I can assure you, likes a romantic man. She wants a man who’ll wake her with a good morning kiss and a dozen beautiful roses. She loves a man who’ll phone her in the middle of a hectic day at work just to say ‘I love you’. She loves cards and treats, the whole works.

Adam’s Apple

FUNKE EGBEMODE egbemode3@gmail.com 0805-506-9066 (sms only) Cosby sense of humour. Every woman wants a man who can make her

laugh and she can share her fun and happiness with. Who wants a dull

SUPPORTIVE If she’s a nurse, she wants a man who’ll support her career and understand her hours. No woman wants a man who’ll turn out to be the cog in the wheel of her progress.

Maybe your lack of female admirers is because of your attitude to female professionals who are dedicated to what they do. Who wants a man who’ll tell you to choose between him and your career?

GOOD COMMUNICATION Not as in being an orator. He should be a man who can share his feelings without feeling ashamed.

He should not be one who bottles up his emotions because with such a man you’ll never know where he’s going or what he’s going to do next.

HUMOUR Show me a woman who won’t love a man with Eddie Murphy or Bill

Give a woman a man who is versatile

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