Sunday telegraph sunday, may 29, 2016 vol 3 no 830 by Newtelegraphonline

Expect more rebellions Emirates in emergency -Man who predicted Avengers

landing in Lagos over cocaine ingestion }5

New prophecy: “Two more militant groups from the North and the South coming. This second group will be led by two seasoned Army generals. Soon after, a more terrible and fiercer opposition group led by a younger Nigerian trained military commander will emerge” }7 }6

lFour passengers test positive

SUNDAY Sunday, MAY 29, 2016 Vol. 3 No. 830

Sanctity of Truth

/newtelegraph

@newtelegraph1 www.newtelegraphonline.com

N150

Niger Delta boils as military confront AvengerS lArmy arrest 7, recover explosives, arms, in Oporoza lMilitants bomb more pipelines l700,000 bpd lost lTompolo: Don’t scrap amnesty office }3

NEWS Diamond Bank sacks 400 }10 NEWS

pdp frustrated Tinubu’s efforts to develop Lagos -Oba Akiolu }12

ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Nigerians slam Buhari }3

lHe failed woefully -Abdulsalam lMr. President is forcing unity without peace - Adebanjo lNigerians will soon reap democratic dividends -Oyegun lIt’s too early to assess him -Gbajabiamila

SUNDAY 29 MAY, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

NEWS

Niger-Delta boils as Avengers bomb more pipelines Paul Ogbuokiri, Dominic Adewole, Ola James, Chris Ejim, Pauline Onyibe

here was palpable fear and anxiety across the NigerDelta region at the weekend as the new militant group, Nigeria-Delta Avengers, seemingly undeterred by the heavy presence of the military in the region, yesterday morning, bombed an oil facility in Nembe, Bayelsa State. The attack is the third in three days by the group which has recently launched multiple attacks on oil and gas installations in the region. These attacks will cost Nigeria not less than 21, 000 barrels daily. The group announced its latest assault yesterday morning via its twitter handle, saying it blew up Nembe 1, 2 and 3 gas and crude trunk line that linked Brass and Bonny. The pipelines belonged to Agip and Shell Corporation. “At About 2:15am yesterday, the @NDAvengers blow up Nembe 1, 2 and 3 Brass to Bonny Trunk Line belonging to Agip and Shell,” the group tweeted. The group also reiterated its threat to carry out an activity that will shock the world. “Something big is about to happen,” the militants tweeted in a follow-up tweet. A Nembe indigene, Rustin Friday, a former Secretary of Nembe City Youth Federation, confirmed the attack, saying the incident happened around Malform 3 and Mbasi 3 in Nembe Local Government Area of the state. He further said that the explosion threw the community into commotion, affecting some buildings while people scampered for safety. He said that the blast vibrated in the community up to the next community. The Avengers has launched several attacks on oil and gas infrastructure since February 2016, demanding a sovereign nation of the Niger Delta people. The group said its aim is to cripple Nigeria’s economy while demanding the secession of the NigerDelta region. Sunday Telegraph gathered that the destruction of oil pipelines by the group since February had reduced Nigeria’s oil production to about 700,000 barrels per day, the worst in the last 20 years. Also, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, in a telephone interview with Sunday Telegraph, reiterated his call on the militant group to exercise caution. He further called on the

Federal Government to reorganise the Amnesty Programme so that it would address the grievances of the region that was responsible for the campaign by the ex-agitators, saying the programme lost its purpose because it was hijacked by people who didn’t know the purpose of the agitation. Tompolo, who spoke through his spokesman, Paul Bebenimibo, also called on government to reverse the scrapping of the Maritime University, Okerenkoko, cited in the region by the Jonathan administration In the first signal that the government might try a less heavy-handed approach, Oil Minister, Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, had said the amnesty programme for former the ex-militants, signed in 2009 to end a previous insurgency, needed to improve. Two feared dead as soldiers invade Delta community Meanwhile, as the elders, leaders and stakeholders in Ijaw ethnic nationality were meeting yesterday in Warri to proffer solution to the resumed hostility in the Niger Delta region, men of the Joint Task Force (JTF) invaded Okporoza community in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, allegedly killing two people in the process. The identities of the victims were not known as the time of filing this report. The military men, the Sunday Telegraph gathered, sneaked into the riverine community at about 2 a.m yesterday. The booming of the guns was said to have sent panic across the community, forcing men and women to abruptly wake up and scamper into bushes and other neighbouring towns and villages with their children. The victims of the invasion, perceived to be women, were said to be escaping for fear of the unknown before they allegedly ran into deep sea intensity. In the course of the ferocity of the military invasion, seven suspected militants were unlucky from jumping arrest as nemesis caught up with them and their large scale of explosives, arms and ammunition when military personnel stormed various hideouts of former militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo at Oporoza community. Men of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation Pulo Shield tip-toed into the community at midnight and forced their way into the hideouts at about 2:30 a.m and made the arrests and recovered the explosives, said to be of various shades and shapes. Sunday Telegraph recalled

Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu (right) receiving the outgoing Ambassador of The Peoples Republic of China to Nigeria, Ambassador Gu Xiaoje during a valedictory visit by the envoy to his office… at the weekend. PHOTO:Office Of The Dsp

that the operation, earlier carried out last week Friday, led to the arrest of one of the suspects, perceived to be a prime suspect in the series of attacks on oil and gas facilities in the creeks around Delta State. “The suspect was reportedly handed over to the navy, who in turn, immediately dispatched him to Abuja for interrogation,” a military source hinted. JTF allegedly declared ‘Operation Shot at Sight’, having realised that the nation’s economic mainstay -crude export and gas production - had been significantly reduced by the militants. The source also said the military decided to launch the midnight operation because the Niger Delta Avengers, late Thursday night, simultaneously bombed several pipelines operated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) around Batan community in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State and damaged pipelines, said to be operated by the Pipelines and Product Marketing Company (PPMC) and Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) Ltd both subsidiaries of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), thereby making the military redundant. While impeccable sources have confirmed yesterday’s early morning operation in Oporoza, which devastated series of buildings just as inhabitants of the area ran to neighbouring communities for safety, an Ijaw opinion leader and the National Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), Comrade Sheriff Mulade, expressed

shock at the invasion of Okporoza and the increasing destructive antics of the ‘Avengers’. While some Ijaw sources claimed that the operation was an attack on Oporoza community, which they described as brutalisation and abuse of indigenes’ and residents’ rights, including women and children, a military source said, “It is an ongoing operation targeted at specific points and group of militants.” According to Mulade, there was an attack on Tompolo’s location and arrests were made. Not specifically Oporoza, but where Tompolo is suspected to be hiding but did not confirm that he was one of those arrested or not. “Yes, the military men invaded Okporoza. Men and women, including their children were forced into the bush. We don’t know yet how many have been killed or injured. Residents of the place are living in fears. There is tension everywhere. We cannot understand why Okporoza became the target of the military when bombing of oil facilities is taking place across the Niger Delta region. It is taking place in Bayelsa, in Rivers and other places, so we cannot understand why Gbaramatu Kingdom cannot enjoy peace for one day and night”, Mulade lamented. He appealed to the Federal Government to immediately withdraw military men from Okporoza and order them to stop harassing, intimidating and ransacking the resident unduly. While efforts to get at the military proved abortive, the Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS), Delta, Commodore Raimi

Mohammed, said he was not aware of the operation and the spokesman of the JTF, Colonel Isa Ado, refused to pick his call or respond to text messages sent to him. But one reliable military source, however, confirmed that seven suspects have already been nabbed in connection with the series of attacks, maintaining that “They may soon volunteer useful information.” He described the midnight invasion as “a successful occupation of Okporoza”, adding that “Recovery of explosives, arms and ammunition, were attestation to this fact.” The source hinted that the operation would last as long as attacks on oil facilities remain, explaining that the earlier arrest was a child’s play to the midnight operation. “The suspect was relocated to Abuja almost immediately”, the military source said. Bayelsa Govt. confirms fresh attack on Agip, Aiteo oil installations The Bayelsa State Government, yesterday, condemned the attack on two crude trunk line operated by Aiteo and Agip by the new militant group, The Niger Delta Avengers. The militant group had earlier on, yesterday, claimed responsibility for the pipelines that convey crude to the Bonny and Brass Export terminals from its twitter handle but the claims could not be immediately verified as Agip and the military kept silent over the attacks. Aiteo, the new owners of one of the lines, could not be reached for comments. Aiteo, had in 2014, acquired the 100kn Nembe trunkline from Shell while

SPDC still relies on the line to convey crude to the Bonny Export Terminal from Bayelsa. Mr. Jonathan Obuebite, Bayelsa Commissioner for Information, who confirmed the attack in an email, yesterday afternoon, condemned the twin attack, describing it as one too many. The blowing up of the trunk line is coming few days after a similar oil facility operated by Chevron was blown up in Delta. Obuebite lamented the economic impact of destruction of the key oil facility and wondered why the militants would go to that extent, knowing fully well the economic implication to the state, the Niger Delta region and the country at large. He observed that despite the concerted efforts of the government to move against such atrocities, the militants were still unrepentant in their acts of vandalism. Obuebite urged the group to embrace dialogue rather than the current approach to register their grievances. He noted that the activities of the group is having adverse effect on the people who reside in those areas affected by oil spill from the vandalized pipelines. The Commissioner also called on security agents to be more alert and to devise new means to protect very important oil and gas facilities in order to prevent further destructions. Obuebite equally urged Bayelsa residents, especially those in oil communities, to be very vigilant and work closely with security agents to apprehend anyone or group attempting to undermine key national asset

NEWS Biyi Adegoroye, Wale Elegbede Kenneth Ofoma, Johnchuks Onuanyim

resident Muhammadu Buhari and his party, the All Progressives Congress, have come under swipe over their failure to fulfill electoral promises, as some prominent Nigerians said the President has been far from being nationalistic in his style of governance in the last one year. They said that contrary to the President’s promise last year to run a pan-Nigerian government with the pledge, “I belong to no body, I belong to everybody,” on assuming office, the reality indicates that he is sectional, especially in his appointments, with his catchment area, the North taking over 70 per cent of key appointments so far made. Available records show that out of about 51 appointments made so far, the President’s geopolitical zone, NorthWest, has 25; North-East nine; North-Central four; South-West four; SouthSouth six and South-East nil. The figure includes the seven Directors-General appointed last week. Buhari is, however, commended for liberating all local governments hitherto under the control of the Boko Haram insurgents and gradually eroding culture of impunity, especially in handling public funds, and his loot-recovery efforts opens new vistas for the nation in the international community. However, they cited the nation’s plummeting economy, which is on the verge of recession, as inflation rose to 13.7 per cent; the nation’s foreign reserves has fallen as low as $27 billion, even as scores of companies have sent over hundred thousand workers into the labour market. National Chairman, Labour Party, Alhaji Abdulkadir Abdulsalam, said the first one year of “President Buhari and APC is disastrous,” describing it as colossal failure. “It is a failed year in every sphere of our life economy, security, youth empowerment, health, education, in all spheres,” he said. Abdulsalam said the President failed to fulfill all the promises made to Nigerians. “They assured Nigerians of change, but we are in chains and we are in bondage. As such, the situation we found ourselves is unexpected, and is disastrous because any political party or any politician who promises change and eventually fails to actualize that cannot be taken seriously.”

SUNDAY 29 MAY, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Nigerians slam Buhari •He is a total failure- Abdulsalam •He was not prepared to rule- Adebanjo •Anti-graft war biased- Olanipekun •Nigerians will smile soon- Oyegun •Change comes from heart - Bishop Chukwuma He said the economy “has nosedived into a dangerous level, our security, though seemingly we are able to manage the Boko Haram thing; abduction, armed robbery, herdsmen, have endangered our security, peace of our dayto-day relationship.” In his assessment, Afenifere Leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, said was dissatisfied with Buhari’s performance in the last one year. Said he: “I want to emphasise that I am a very dissatisfied and disgruntled octogenarian. I was 88 last April. I don’t want this country to continue like this…I want Buhari to change and change this country for good. But the cabinet he has can’t do it. While he said he was not urging the President and his team to “do everything in one year. I said what have they done now? If they should do 10, have they done one or two? You should point out to me that after all, save the question of anti-corruption which I scored him about 20 per cent, what else has he done? “I’m in support of what he did on that, but wiping out of corruption does not put food on the table of the people. And that was why I said before the election, even when I said they are not organized, is that ‘just let Goodluck Jonathan go. When I asked the question, after the departure of Jonathan, who will replace him? They said just let him go. They should have had a plan; it is because the people believed that you could better the Jonathan administration, that’s why they voted for you. And I agreed with that. I may not like your being elected, but you have been elected; that’s the voice of the people. Now perform! On whether the President has lived up to his own creed, he said the nature of his appointments showed he has not “walked the talk,” as majority of his appointments are from the North. Former President of the Nigeria Bar Association, Chief Wole Olanipekun, on his part, said the nation since 1999, is migrating from military dictatorship to civilian despotism. He also frowned at what he called disregard for rule of law in the war against corruption, noting that our legal system is adversarial

L-R: President, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Aigboje Aig- Imoukhuede; former Director-General, Dr. Hayford Alile; CEO, NSE, Mr. Oscar Onyema; Executive Director, Institute of Directors(IOD), Mr. Mohammed Jumba, and CEO, PEARL Awards Nig. Mr. Tayo Orekoya at the 12th Annual PEARL Awards public lecture in Lagos…at the weekend. PHOTO: GODWIN IREKHE

and not inquisitorial” as it is currently practiced. Urging him to ensure that the anti-graft war is across board, Olanipekun said government should ensure national spread in the appointment into key offices in order to avoid portraying himself as a sectional leader or President for the APC. Similarly, Mr. Kolawole Banwo of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre said the spate of contradiction and recant on the part of the government gives impression of “a divided government where the President is in a world of its own, just like his ministers and the party.” Banwo said the incident predated the government, having commenced during the campaign of the APC, which was so uncoordinated that the presidential candidate’s position was almost at variance with that of the party. Now taken into government, he said, the trend tends to “erode credibility of the entire government, and reinforces stereotypes that politicians cannot be taken seriously, because they make many promises just to get into power. This development as it affects the APC is unfortunate and it discredits the change mantra.”

But APC National Chairman, Chief John OdigieOyegun, in his message yesterday, assured Nigerians of the party’s dividends of democracy soon. Oyegun gave the assurance in a statement issued by the APC Assistant Director of Publicity, Mr. Edegbe Odemwingie. According to him, the N500 billion earmarked for social intervention will begin to yield dividends very soon, and commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his leadership acumen and for repositioning the country. Odigie-Oyegun, in the statement said, “Twelve months ago, President Muhammadu Buhari was sworn into office after the decisive victory of our great party in the general elections that marked 16 years of unbroken democratic rule in Nigeria. “On behalf of the National Working Committee, elders, leaders and the teeming members of our party, I wish to convey my immeasurable gratitude to our fellow compatriots for their unprecedented confidence and trust in President Muhammadu Buhari and the Party. “The APC assures all Nigerians that the party and the President hold as very sacred this collective trust, which the President has so creditably discharged this

past one year. “President Buhari has, in the last year, worked hard to repair Nigeria’s previously tarnished image in the international community; restored the territorial integrity of our country by ensuring the containment of the erstwhile rampaging Boko Haram insurgency and has waged an unrelenting and vigorous war against corruption as he promised in his electioneering campaign.” Similarly, Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, urged Nigerians to keep faith in the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, stating that the ruling All Progressives Congress cannot be assessed under one year in office. Speaking over the weekend in Lagos at a Town Hall Meeting organised to give account of his stewardship to his constituents, Gbajabiamila, who represents Surulere I at the House of Representatives, said the APC government inherited a virtually empty coffers when it took over the reins of leadership last year. “Many are saying that we should assess the government of President Buhari and APC in one year, but I say to them that the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

gives every President four years. The reason why it gave four years was because those who drafted the constitution knew that you can’t assess a sitting government in one year, not even in two years. So, they gave four years as the point of assessment at elections. I believe that as things begin to turn around under Buhari, this country will get better. We should not be despair or lose hope with the APC or the government. “Things are very difficult in Nigeria today; we must acknowledge that. The question we need to ask ourselves is why? And the answer is very simple. “When this government came into power, we knew the situation was bad, we knew the previous government did so much damage to the economy, but, we did not know how badly,” he said. While reeling out some of his achievement in the lower chamber, the lawmaker who is representing his constituency for the fourth time, said he has in the past one year provided empowerment support of over N10million, secured employment for some unemployed youths, sponsored bills restricting movement of articulated vehicles on bridges and granted loans to indigent students, among others.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

News

Emirates makes emergency landing over cocaine ingestion

Bishop wants state of emergency on economy

he Archbishop of Ecclesiastical Province of Enugu and Bishop of Enugu Anglican Diocese, Most Rev Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuma has called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on the financial sector and the economy. The clergyman said the Federal Government must find a way of ameliorating the sufferings of the people now. He stressed that unless the spirit of God touches the heart of people there will not be serious change in Nigeria while the fight against corruption would remain a mirage. Archbishop Chukwuma stated this at the weekend during the dedication of Ultra Modern Church, Bethel Anglican Church building at Ishi Ozalla, Nkanu West Local Government. Area of Enugu State built and donated by Mr. Kingsley & Mrs. Muna Okoye (nee Nweke). He said that real change in Nigeria can only come when the people’s heart and character are revived and transformed, and become conscious of doing what is right. “Transformation spiritually is what we need, not sycophantic, cosmetic and parasitic change which we are seeing today

Wole Shadare

n Emirates flight EK 262 from Sao Paulo, Brazil to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, made an emergency landing yesterday in Lagos due to the deteriorating health condition of a suspected cocaine trafficker. Screening by anti-narcotic officials found four passengers positive for drug ingestion. They are currently under interrogation. One of the suspects in critical health condition was immediately hospitalised as doctors battle to save his life.

Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Col. Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah (retd.), who said that the suspect is responding to treatment, called for stiffer penalty against drug trafficking. Abdallah said that the agency needs the cooperation of all stakeholders to send a warning to drug trafficking organisations. According to Abdallah, “NDLEA is taking necessary measures to protect and promote the image of Nigeria and will resist any attempt to undermine the gains so far recorded in the fight against drug control.

Drug traffickers must be severely punished to reduce the number of persons getting involved in the criminal act. All hands must be on deck to condemn drug trafficking in its entirety”. NDLEA commander at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos, Mr. Ahmadu Garba, said that the Emirates flight left Sao Paulo, Brazil to Dubai, but was forced to come to Lagos due to the health condition of a passenger on board who ingested cocaine. “A passenger complained

of severe abdominal pains and later suffered three recurrent seizures thus necessitating an emergency landing in Lagos. Upon arrival, four passengers tested positive for narcotic ingestion. They are Okeh Desmond, Ezeanya Nnaemeka, Christopher Nonso and Chibusi Promise. All the suspects are under observation,” Garba stated. It will be recalled that the NDLEA has beamed its search light on flights originating from Brazil and Dubai in recent times because of its notoriety in cocaine

L-R: Former Director General, Standards Oganisation of Nigeria, Prof. John Ndanusa Akanya; MD/CEO ofBende Export-Import Limited, Chief Benjamin Kalu; Human Resources Manager, Stephany Onyechakwu and Operations Manager, Onuoha Kingsley during the award in Lagos

Bende Export-Import Ltd bags Best Product Trader Award Chijioke Iremeka

t was a big boost and encouragement for Bende Export-Import Limited, a subsidiary of Slok Group Limited, as it bagged the “Best Commodity Trader Award,” organised by the Institute for Government Research Leadership Technology, yesterday, at the Lagos Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja. Tagged: ‘African Products Award,’ the award ceremony drew men and women from all walks of life across African continent and beyond, to witness made-inAfrica products that have impacted on Nigerian economy and African continent as a whole. According to the organisers of the award, the list of products selected for the recognition and award are those impacting lives, making life easy and satisfying consumers’ desire, saying that the products also include those that have commanded wide recognition

and respect across the continent. Speaking on the award, one of the awardees, the former Governor of Abia State and Chairman Bende Export-Import Limited, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, who was represented by the company’s Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Chief Benjamin Kalu, said he was grateful to the organisers for considering his company for such award. Kalu noted that an international recognition of a company was good but a national recognition has a way of encouraging the local businessmen and entrepreneurs, saying that bagging ‘Best Commodity Trader Award’ for the products coming from Africa was a good encouragement. “I thank the Institute for organising a programme like this. People outside can say you are doing well but when it comes from your people, it encourages you to do more. This award will

help my company to do more. We are involved in agricultural commodities from production to processing and to packaging,” he said. According to him, as one of the criteria used to determine who wins the best product trader award, Bende Export-Import Ltd complied with all government regulations regarding standardisation, saying that compliance to high ethical practices is the hallmark of the company. “Our products are of great standard. In most cases, you will see some products from Nigeria being returned for not meeting the right standard of the recipient countries, especially in Europe and America but our products have never been returned for any reason. We are one company that insists on shipping products of right standard. With our products like cashew nut, ginger, and hibiscus flower

among others cannot be rejected anywhere. However, the ChairmanIn-Council, Institute for Government Research Leadership Technology, Dame (Barr) Priscilla Kuye said the Institute is in the habit of going round the country, checking those locally manufactured products that have the right standards and enter them for African Product Award. More so, Professor of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Philippa Ojimelukwe said there was the need for high standard and product coordination in the country’s manufacturing industry. Against that claim that Nigeria is a dump ground for foreign-made products, the Immediate Gambian Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb Angela Colley said Nigeria has the human resources and all it takes to give the world what it needs, including Nigeria as a country, and, therefore ,cannot not be a dump ground.

Kenneth Ofoma ENUGU

that is very deceitful. Nigeria needs a change where people will be concerned for one another, when we shall love one another, when we shall concern that somebody is suffering and proffering solution and not to increase suffering as we are seeing right now.“ “People are suffering and the type of change that will bring suffering must be squashed by serious increment in the salaries of workers. You cannot increase fuel and then causing inflation and people remain in the same salary,” he said. Attributing the increasing rate of bitterness, strife and bloody conflicts around the country on the unforgiving spirit of some Nigerians, the Cleric said “failure to forgive is one of the barriers to our prayers”. Drawing his sermon from 2Chronicles 6-20, Arch Bishop Chukwuma commended the family of Mr. and Engr (Mrs.) Stella Munachimso Chinedu Okoye for building a church for God. He said that the church is God’s own and not for man, noting that those who have burden in their heart, who have supplication and confession to make, shall come to the church and receive God’s mercies and favour.

EFCC ‘ll soon prosecute ghost workers, says Adeosun Kunle Olayeni

Abeokuta

he Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, has said the prosecution of suspected ghost workers detected on the payroll of the Federal Government will soon begin. Adeosun, who stated that the number of ghost workers had exceeded 43,000 uncovered recently, said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will handle the prosecution. She spoke in Iperu-Remo, Ogun State on Friday while monitoring the biometric data capturing of officers and men of the Nigerian Police under the Integrated Payment and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). The IPPIS is one of the Federal Government’s reform initiatives conceived to transform the Nigerian public service aimed at improving the management of human resources and providing a centralised payroll system in the service. According to the minister, all ministries, departments and agencies of the Federal Government would be enrolled into IPPIS platform. Adeosun pointed out that

through the platform and Bank Verification Number (BVN), the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration continued to uncover ghost workers on its payroll. She said: “The figure keeps changing. Every day we keep cleaning up the payroll and this has been going on for a long time. But so far it seems it is about 43,000 and it keeps on increasing and we would continue until we remove all. “Every time we remove those who shouldn’t be there, it creates room to employ those who are ready to work and create money to spend on things the country needs. We are in talks with the EFCC and they are going to start the prosecutions very soon.” Asked whether ghosts can actually be prosecuted, Adeosun noted that “ghost workers” are merely generic terms for certain categories of those drawing money illegally from government coffers. She added: “Some do not exist but get into the payroll through a fraudulent way and some people are collecting salaries from two or three places.

NEWS Steve Uzoechi

T OWERRI

he minister of the Anglican Diocese of Mbaise (Church of Nigeria Communion), Godfrey Gbujie, has predicted a season of judgment against Muslim dominated northern Nigeria; saying “Terror will not leave their domain until the right thing is done.” Gbujie had earlier predicted in February that a new terror groups deadlier than Boko Haram would emerge from the North and that another would come from the South. That was before the emergence of rampaging Fulani herdsmen, who have extended their violence to southern part of Nigeria, and the recent uprising by the Niger Delta Avengers. Speaking to Sunday Telegraph on the development over the weekend, the cleric, who is also the Coordinator of Mission-21 World Emergency Christian Project, warned that things are going to get worse. “I am preparing a letter for President Muhammadu

SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Herdsmen uprising, Niger Delta Avengers, prophecy fulfilled –Gbujie Buhari, to furnish him with details of the indignation that will befall the North. They may think the herdsmen are tools against other regions, but I can authoritatively tell them that the Fulani herdsmen are an army of judgment. Their deadly activities were designed by God to trigger a gathering of nations against the Islamic Hausa/Fulani north. You may not see it immediately but ethnic nationalities in Nigeria have been roused against the North. Even their international allies are not left out in the rallying of nations against the radical north.” Gbujie recalled that when Boko Haram started, Northern leaders gave them full support thinking it was a movement against nonMuslims until even northerners became victims of their murderous reign. “It was God that turned Boko Haram even against

their own and that is exactly what is going to happen in the case of the rampaging herdsmen,” the cleric said. Prophet Gbujie gave insight into the revelations he received concerning the Niger Delta Avengers. He said: “The Lord showed me an army led by a young man; an untrained and untested young man. This young man has a lot of disadvantages. He rose from an obscure region of the South and groomed from a forest by a dark - skinned beast that resembles an unblemished one-year old dog, full of life. I saw his image running swiftly and athletically in a forest and suddenly two white wings emerged from his sides and lifted him. His mandate is to disembowel and dismember Nigeria.” The prophet lamented that the worst is yet to come, insisting that two more militant groups from the North and the South

are already standing by. According to him, they are armies of judgment and if Buhari fails to address what he called the National Question, his government will first be attacked by a northern militant group before those from the South moves in. Gbujie said: “This second rebellious group will be led by two seasoned army generals and soon after, a more terrible and fiercer opposition group led by a younger Nigerian trained military commander will emerge from the south. “If not handled properly, this southern force will eventually cause the final disintegration and collapse of the Nigerian nation”, he said. Gbujie said that two signs would herald his prediction. The first, according to him, would be a serious air disaster to be recorded within the Imo airspace in

L-R: Chief of Staff to Abia State Governor, Chijioke Nwakodo; Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mr. Onyii Nwamah, after the presentation of some ambulances for Emergency Response Services, in Umuahia… at the weekend

EFCC probes alleged diversion of Benue’s N107bn

Cephas Iorhemen

C MAKURDI

ontrary to speculations that Benue State government has dumped the Justice Elizabeth Kpojime Judicial Commission of Enquiry report which indicted former governor Gabriel Suswam and 51 others, Governor Samuel Ortom yesterday said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), has commenced investigation into the matter. Ortom said the commission’s report has been submitted to the anti-graft agency and assured the people of the state of cer-

tainty of follow up and investigation into the allegations. Ortom told journalists at an interactive session that EFCC staff in Enugu have already paid assessment visit to Benue State on the matter, adding that his administration would follow the rule of law in pursuing the case, and advised those that allegedly looted the treasury to return the loot. Ortom said he has given go ahead to his commissioners to rebuke him if he inflates any contract awarded to contractors, and emphasized that his administration has zero tolerance for corruption. According to him, upkeep allowances for him-

self and the deputy governor have been reduced by N500,000 because of the decline in federal allocation, even as he used the occasion organised to mark his one year in office to say that the amnesty prrogramme introduced last year was a huge success. He said life in Benue would have been miserable if the programme was not introduced and added that it was being replicated in some other states. Ortom said the programme has been highly extolled in Africa and announced that he has been invited to speak on amnesty at a United Nations gathering in New York in June this year. He said if those criticising the programme have

seen the over 600 weapons surrendered, they would have commended his administration instead of condemning it. On the 800 staff of Obi Local Government who demonstrated over nonpayment of salaries, the governor said he directed that they should be disengaged because they were illegally employed by the director in-charge of general services and administration. As regards what his administration has done towards arresting those that killed his Senior Special Assistant on Security, Mr. Denen Igbana, Ortom said he has given the matter to security agencies to handle.

no distant time. “The nose of the aircraft shall point towards the west and the burning tail, pointing to the east’’, he said. Before the 2015 general elections, Prophet Gbujie had predicted that President Muhammadu Buhari and the Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, would win in the 2015

presidential and governorship elections respectively. He said that Nigeria, under the present administration of President Muhammad Buhari, is passing through a storm of God’s anger and palpable dangers. Proffering the solution to the predictions, Gbujie urged Buhari to urgently resolve what he called ‘the national question’.

Ambode’s one year achievements fabulous – Ayorinde Isioma Madike and Muritala Ayinla

he Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Steve Ayorinde has described Governor Akinwumi Ambode’s administration in the last one year as fabulous, saying the governor has surpassed expectations of many Nigerians in spite of the turbulent economic situation in the country. Ayorinde said Ambode has not only fulfilled the electoral campaigns of continuity with improvement but also proven to Lagosians and indeed Nigerians that many giant strides could be accomplished with many feats his 12-monthold administration has been able achieve, saying Lagosians can testify that they indeed in safe hands under Ambode’s administration. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sunday Telegraph, Ayorinde said that Ambode-led administration has through frequent information gathering and feedback mechanisms has been helpful for the government in meeting the needs of the residents. Ayorinde said over 500 roads have been constructed or rehabilitated in the last one year with two flyovers and lay-bys under construction, saying most of the roads were selected by the stakeholders of the communities who benefited in the road projects. He added:” And of course the icing on the cake in terms of social infrastructure is the light up project which the government has embarked upon. Again, for the first time in history, you now have a Lagos that is not only safe in terms of security but in terms of moving and driving around at any point in time. ‘Light up Lagos’ is not about street lights it is also about connecting hitherto neglected communities one-by-one back to the national grid”. He said that the administration was investing heavily on security and safety equipment in order to ensure safety of lives and properties in the state, adding LASEMA Response Unit was commissioned with world-class equipment to reduce the response time of the emer-

gency responders in the case of inevitable disasters. Ayorinde said while most states are battling with the current economic realities, Lagos has not consistently paid salaries promptly but also executed a number of legacy projects, saying the government from next week will change the face of Oshodi to a world-class transport interchange that will enhance transportation in the state but give the residents a new transportation experience similar to any mega city in the world. “As a matter of fact, Oshodi is now so much of a good news because since January when Owonifari market was demolished not only as an alternative provided in Isopakodowo market. Now Oshodi from June 1 will experience one of the most remarkable regeneration that any market in Nigeria will ever witness. The government has sealed a deal in a PPP arrangement with a company that will regenerate the entire Oshodi into a world-class three multilevel terminals transport interchange. This means that all the 13 different bus stops, parks and interchange will now be subsumed into the multi-level terminals where all the loadings will be done and the interest of the marketers, bus drivers and all the people around Oshodi is being taken care of.” Harping on the 4th Mainland Bridge, Ayorinde added that the current Ambode-led administration has broken the 14-year jinx of the bridge by taking a step towards actualising the bridge’s construction. “The state government finally signed the MoU that will yield to the provision of the longest bridge in Africa; perhaps the third longest bridge in the world. It has about a 42-kilometre long bridge with about eight intersections that will run from Ajah all the way down to Ojodu Berger passing through some parts of Ikorodu and ensuring that traffic congestion on Third Mainland Bridge, Victoria Island and Ajah axis, by the time it is completed, will be a thing of the past,” Ayorinde said.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

Contents | 29.05.16 BODY & SOUL

First ladies of purpose Behind every president is a first lady who stands by him in ensuring good governance in the country

}20&21

POLITICS

Gains and pains President Muhammadu Buhari's first anniversary is an admixture of pains and gains to Nigerians

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BUSINESS

Crumbling economy Nigerians experience worst cost of living in years as fuel and electricity tariffs are hiked by 67 and 45 per cent respectively, even as inflation reaches an embarrassing level

}43

FAITH

Herdsmen It is not a coincidence that Fulani herdsmen took up arms after the change of government

}31

SPORT

Yekini's daughters want to know how he died The two daughters fo the late African Footballer of the Year, Rashidi Yekini, Rashidat Yemisi and Omoyemi, said they will institute an inquest on the death of their father

}54

Magazine

Buhari's first anniversary Nigerians in diverse opinion on Buhari's one year achievements. While some say he is a failure, others feel he has commendable achievements

}8&9

SUNDAY

Editorial

Buhari still faces enormous challenges

oday marks exactly one year since President Muhammad Buhari was inaugurated. His inauguration had followed weeks of anxiety over the rescheduled presidential election. The tension that accompanied the release of the results declaring Buhari as the winner of the March 28, 2016 election kept the nation on edge until the actual handing over on May 29. At his inauguration, Buhari had acknowledged the efforts of his predecessor, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, towards a successful transition especially by conceding defeat and shaming international commentators who had expected Nigeria to descend into chaos after the election. He had also promised to tackle the “enormous challenges” of corruption, insecurity, fuel and power shortages and gave the assurance that “Nigerians will not regret that they have entrusted national responsibility to us. We must not succumb to helplessness and defeatism. We can fix our problems.” In the speech, Buhari did not pretend that his administration was going to have an easy ride over these challenges. Without mincing words about the dire situation in which he found himself, he had said: “My appeal for unity is predicated on the seriousness of the legacy we are getting into. With depleted foreign reserves, falling oil prices, leakages and debts, the Nigerian economy is in deep trouble and will require careful management to bring it round and to tackle the immediate challenges confronting us, namely: Boko Haram, the Niger Delta situation, the power shortages and unemployment, especially among young people.” His speech had given much hope to Nigerians that amid concerns over the economy and the polity, they had a leader who would ‘walk the talk.’ One year after, Nigerians are strongly divided on how much positive impact he has made on their lives. While some say he is on a steady course, others believe he has yet to come to real terms with the ‘enormous challenges’ he acknowledged in his inaugural speech. Those who say he is on track point to the successes recorded in the war against Boko Haram as well as the fight against corruption. They argue that on both fronts, the President has successfully made a strong impression.

They, for instance, point to the Nigerian military’s successful recapture of North-East towns from Boko Haram; the decimation and degradation of the terrorists’ capabilities; as well as the resumption of normal life in many hitherto deserted areas in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states. On the war against corruption, the Administration has been able to initiate the prosecution of high-profile Nigerians allegedly linked to the looting of the treasury. The Administration has signed agreements with various countries on the confiscation and return of assets believed to have been illicitly acquired with funds looted from Nigeria. At least, a former high-profile official that served under the former Administration has been jailed five years. There are also claims that huge funds have been voluntarily returned by suspected looters. The Busari Administration has also largely succeeded with the implementation of the Treasury Single Account, reportedly garnering trillions of naira in the process. However, not much seems to have been achieved in surmounting the ‘enormous challenges’ enumerated by Buhari. Insecurity is still a major challenge, with herdsmen attacking communities, pillaging farmlands and killing people at will. Also, kidnapping and sundry crimes remain serious problems. In the Niger Delta, suspected militants have claimed responsibility for attacks on vital pipelines and the attendant loss of 800,000 barrels per day. The vandalism of the pipelines has pushed the economy to the edge and worsened electricity and fuel shortages. The President and his team need to get a grip on the economy as well as challenges of insecurity and vandalism in order to enable them to move faster as Buhàri enters into his second year as a democratically elected president. Key reforms should be speedily embarked upon while far-reaching decisions in the nation’s interests must be token. The Administration cannot gloss over complaints about the absence of strategic communication between it and the people. Appointments should no longer be about fostering primordial interests, as appears to be the case currently, but about making public service more efficient. The time to act is now as Nigerians are tired of excuses and blame game!

DAILY TELEGRAPH PUBLISHING COMPANY LIMITED Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief

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Managing Editor, Business & Strategy n Yemi Ajayi

Managing Editor, Publication & Operations n Emeka Obasi

Managing Editor, South n Emeka Madunagu Managing Editor, North & Abuja n Laurence Ani

Editor n Ayodele Ojo Editor, Sunday n Juliet Bumah Editor, Saturday n Waheed Bakare Deputy Editor n Tunde Sulaiman

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The Sunday Magazine first an n

iv er sary

Nigerians score President Exactly one year after President Muhammdu Buhari took over the mantle of leadership of Nigeria, the citizens rate his performance so far. Many, who had high expectations that the coming onboard of the retired General would bring about better life in a short while, gave him knocks for underperformance, others are of the opinion that he has done creditably well. CHIJIOKE IREMEKA, CHRIS ISIGUZO, ADEOLU ADEYEMO and CEPHAS IORHEMEN report Buhari has pursued his mission commendably Upon assumption of office a year ago, President Muhammadu Buhari vowed to stamp out corruption in the country, which, as we know, has threatened the existence of Nigeria and attracted her ignominy in the committee of nations. I am in no doubt that one year into his government, he has pursued that mission with commendable passion and resoluteness. There is no doubt that graft has kept most Nigerians in poverty, and for Nigeria to succeed, we need a leader in the mode of President Buhari with zero tolerance for graft. His efforts at repositioning Nigeria have, however, been undermined by a lot of factors and entrenched interests which over time, I believe he would surmount for the good of Nigeria. I would score his government high. I encourage every Nigerian to lend a hand of support to his government. He should, however, do more to arRICHARD CHUKWUOCHA, Lagos rest the panic orchestrated by the menace of herdsmen in Nigeria.

Let Buhari put the loot he has recovered so far into projects that will be seen by all Nigerians. The looted monies should be used to sponsor those projects. And the money recovered at the federal level should be used to sponsor federal projects while those recovered from the states should be given to the state government with a specific instruction that such money, not captured in the budget, should be put into special projects in that particular state. Instead of keeping it with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the man at the helm of affairs at the EFCC would one day run away ABU KING SHULUWA, Benue State with the money just like the last EFCC boss has done.

I will rate Buhari 70 per cent

Lingering power problem, fuel crisis I implore Buhari to address the lingering problem of power supply and petroleum shortages in the country. Within his last one year in office, Nigeria is still experiencing power supply problem, a situation we are hoping that would be improved on shortly. Fuel supply is almost stabilised and the fight against corruption is yielding the desired results. Also, we can see that some looters are willingly surrendering part of their loots. President Muhammadu Buhari's one year in office has witnessed remarkable achievements.

Mr. President has to commit recovered funds into projects

Former Lagos State Commissioner of Police, ALHAJI ABUBAKAR TSAV

I think one year of Buhari administration has been challenging on the part of government and Nigerians. You will agree with me that a lot went wrong before Mr. President came into power. And he has been in the business of cleaning the mess. And it is not easy to clean a mess of over 16 years. From my own assessment, I will rate him 70 per cent. If not for a man like him, this country would have collapsed before now. I, however, think there is a problem with his economic team, he needs to change one or two persons and then stabilise the economy. UGOCHUKWU AGU

Too much suffering in Nigeria

HENRY MBA, Enugu

All my life, I have never seen a government like Buhari’s government. There is a lot of suffering in Nigeria. The government is not supposed to come on board at all. The economy is too bad, everything in Nigeria is bad. If you go to the market, people are suffering seriously. A bag of rice that was sold for N7000 few weeks ago, is now sells for between N16, 000 and N18, 000. When this government was coming, they said that they would change everything for good. They said it is change and we believed so much that it is going to be a change, but we didn’t know that the change is going to be a change from good to bad. They said they are fighting Boko-Haram and corruption, and collecting money from different people. The money they are collecting we don’t know where the money is going. And you can see now that Naira, is about 350 per dollar. But under the former administration, the dollar was N160, N170; so I don’t just know exactly what is happening. I don’t know what to say either.

Buhari’s governance is frustrating innocent souls Buhari’s governance is frustrating innocent souls. He should change his leadership style for the advancement of humanity and that of the country. Since his administration assumed power, the economy of the country has remained on the downward slide, crippled, battered and shattered with no solution in sight to address the matter. Instead of proffering solutions, what you will always see them say is that, it is the PDP-led government that has wrecked the economy of the country.

Five pieces of tomatoes sell for N500 This administration is something else. It’s really a change from grace to grass. It’s from the frying pan to the fire. Enjoy what! When we buy five pieces of tomatoes for N500 and a cup of rice for N120? There is nothing positive to say about this administration in the past one year. It’s all suffering. I wish he feels the same way we feel and build this country. KHAL CANDY, Awka

We should pray for our president I think we should all pray for our President. We should pray for Nigeria and our leaders. My thinking will be different from what other people think and say. I think we should keep praying for God’s mercy and grace in this our beloved country. CHIEF ADESOJI ALALADE, Oshogbo

A Nollyword actress, NKEM IKE, Lekki

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

Sunday Magazine

first an n

Buhari, one year on iv er sary

Buhari did well on subsidy removal

I’m hopeful of this administration We will get it right but it has to take time. It took them time to destroy this economy and it will take time to fix it. At least, Buhari is bold enough to confront certain people. That shows that some people could be touched in the country. Let’s not be in a hurry, Buhari will fix the economy if he doesn't derail from the right path. I’m hopeful. Obiora Chukwunulu, Onitsha, Anambra State

The country is in disarray but I want to believe that things will get better if the President and people surrounding him will be truthful in what they are doing, especially, with the fuel pump hike and subsidy removal; I am in total support of that. If they have genuinely removed the subsidy to deregulate, I will say that competition will drive down the price. I’m in for it, but the economy is in bad shape. Level of poverty is increasing and life is getting tougher. It’s now a thing of privileged for masses to eat.

No credit for subsidy removal

He should listen to the voice of the masses

Joy Mbonu, Nnewi

Buhari’s one year so far is horrible. There is scarcity of almost all the essential commodities in the country. There is high dollar exchange rate. There is increase in fuel pump price, despite scarcity of fuel. Down here, we get fuel for over N250 per litre. Life has really been difficult for people both the traders and the civil servants. As the prices are going up, salaries are not being increased. So how do we handle this issue? Buhari should listen to the voice of the people and stop being autocratic. He should bring down the price of fuel and lift bans on importation of rice and other essentials.

VINCENT EZEME, Enugu

Frank Julius

I can’t give Buhari any credit for removing fuel subsidy because former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan administration started it but APC, including Buhari, staged campaign against him and incited masses against him. So, if that policy was bad, why didn’t Buhari stay off it? We have not learnt what governance is. If that was good policy for the country, why kick against it? This administration gives me no hope because many wrong things are happening at the same time and the administration seems not to know how to manage the crises. There is too much propaganda in this government. They lie too much and not doing anything to help the situation. We are waiting for the magic that APC said it was going to do.

Buhari should show interest in the welfare of the people

Past 365 days are something else

It has been really bad. Nothing is working out good. Transport fares have increased everywhere. Four pieces of tomatoes sell for N200. What can we really do? We are buying it like that but this is really unacceptable. I will tell Buhari to possess the quality of a good leader by showing interest in the welfare of his people.

The past one year of the Buhari administration has been something else. Everybody is affected by scarcity of cash and high prices of goods and services in the country. You don’t need to speak big English, the impact of the administration is felt by everybody in all spheres. If one year is like this, I wonder what will happen before the end of his tenure. Princess Chichi Laura, Umuahia

Pretty Juliet Nnewi

Discussing Buhari gets me angry

Jail one looter, we will believe you

I don’t want to say anything because if I open my mouth, I will say a lot of unpleasant things going by what is happening in the country right now. If I start talking, I will get angry and worked up. I really do not want to get angry because they are not going to pay me for getting angry. Is it to talk about the level of unemployment in the country, which I’m affected or senseless killings in the country? Please, I don’t want to get worked up.

The fight against corruption is good but we need to see somebody who has been jailed before we begin to trust this administration. I do believe in fighting looters who have destroyed this economy, but somebody has to be made a scapegoat before the message is driven home. We have seen those indicted, but we have not seen anyone jail. Until then, Buhari is a failure. DAVID IHEANOCHO, Abuja

Rachael, Edo State

APC can’t fix Nigerian dwindling economy

We are in process of rebuilding our nation We have to be patient and wait for the change. What is happening now is that so much has gone into decay and for us to get to where we are going, requires process. The power has been a problem, no maintenance, nothing. But thank God they have been privatised. I’m hopeful that when people put in their money there, they will not allow it to die. As a nation, we have to be patient. We have to give our leaders the opportunity to serve. YOMI OKUNNU, Lagos

Everybody knows, even a little child of two years knows that Nigerian's economy is comatose. So, we are only looking up to God because I don’t think the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Buhari has answer to the dwindling state of the Nigerian economy. They should come out and tell Nigerians boldly about what magic they have to apply to revive the economy. Forget about the fact that the oil market has been dwindling for some time, now. Yes, we understand that to be a global problem. There should be natural and economy sensibility in place aimed at reviving this situation, which this administration lacks. President Buhari should come out and tell Nigerians which direction his government is going. He seems not to have plans for this nation.

Chief Taiwo Kuye, Lagos

SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

Lagos@50: Soyinka lambasts critics, says they are ignorant

Muritala Ayinla

obel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka yesterday lambasted those criticising his appointment as Co-chairman of the Lagos At 50 celebrations, saying that the idea of the one year long celebration was just to create consciousness of the celebration in the minds of the people. There have been criticisms by the socio-cultural groups under aegis of Eko Foundation and Omo Pataki, who opposed Soyinka’s appointment on the ground that he is not a Lagos indigene and that he knows little or nothing about the state. They argued that more competent Lagosians who could cochair the 50th anniversary of the state. But Professor Soyinka, who spoke at a dinner to formally launch the event,

faulted those against his appointment by Governor Ambode as co-chair of the Committee, saying they were only exhibiting ignorance. While stating that he would not join issues with such people, Soyinka said his family was a pioneer in the development of the state, and that it was unfortunate that the so-called Lagosians were denying themselves the opportunity of knowing Lagos which his committee would offer. Explaining what the yearlong event entails, Soyinka that said for instance, a month of solidarity would be dedicated to victims of Boko Haram, while the people would equally be given the opportunity to know more about Lagos. Meanwhile, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has said the 50th anniversary of the State which will climax on May

28, 2017,would showcase to the world the unique achievements, culture, heritage and the tourism potentials of the state. Ambode, who spoke at a special children’s programme tagged “Vision of the Child” to officially kick start the year-long activities for the Golden jubilee of the state, said the celebration was put together to provide historical opportunity to propel the state into unimaginable greatness as well as put it on highest pedestal in the league of world megacity states. The governor, who assured that the event would be the biggest celebration in the 50-year history of the state, dded that Lagosians should expect nothing short of world class events. He said: “This golden jubilee celebration will show Lagos for what it is - a home for all and a land of opportunities where dreams are

made and fulfilled. This celebration will be all inclusive and in furtherance to this, each of the five administrative divisions of the state will have one month to showcase their culture and landmass. In this way, we will expose to the world the uniqueness and diversity of our culture and tradition as well as our great tourism potentials.” Speaking on the vision of the child initiative, the governor who said the state had consistently supported the initiative explained that it was aimed at promoting creative thinking, literary arts and painting skills. Governor Ambode therefore commended the Lagos At 50 Committee headed by Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka and Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi, and expressed optimism in their ability to showcase the state to the world and organize memorable events.

Don’t despair, Atiku, Mark tell Nigerians

ormer Vice President and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Atiku Abubakar insists democracy, despite its limitations and challenges, remains the best form of government anywhere in the world. In his message to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the former Vice President explained that the freedom of choice is one of the most important ingredients of the democratic system. According to him, the freedom to choose our leaders makes democracy fashionable, adding that any system that subverts the will of the people destroys the progress of the society. Speaking further the Turaki Adamawa said as an active participant in the democratic struggle in Nigeria and an ardent proponent of the rule of law, rather than the rule of man, he recognises the sacrifices of gallant Nigerians whose struggles brought us to the current stage. According to him, as Nigerians celebrate Democracy Day, the memory of late Shehu Yar’Adua and MKO Abiola would resonate across the country, adding that the sacrifices of countless others who paid the supreme price for opposing dictatorship would also not be forgotten. The former Vice President added that no sane society would choose despotism over democracy because,

under dictatorship, dissent is met with death or torture. On the current challenges facing ordinary Nigerians, the former Vice President stressed no democratically elected government would intentionally hurt the voters that put it into office. He therefore urged Nigerians not to lose hope because of the current temporary challenges that they are going through. Meanwhile, former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has told Nigerians not to despair in the face of the daunting economic and socio-political challenges but to remain steadfast for our democracy to endure. Senator Mark in a goodwill message to Nigerians marking this year’s Democracy Day noted that it was by deliberate choice and design that the nation chose presidential democracy as the best form of government because it is representative and participatory . “This year’s Democracy Day,” Senator Mark noted is unique “because it is the first time in the last 17 years of uninterrupted civilian administration that an opposition political party is in charge.” In spite of some criticisms, he noted that the solid foundation the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration put in place for 16 years guaranteed the congenial atmosphere that enabled an opposition party to win election.

We’ll strengthen our democracy through legislation – Dogara Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode(2nd right); his Deputy, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluranti Adebule; Co-Chairmen, Committee for Lagos @ 50, Prof. Wole Soyinka and Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi during the Vision of the Child 2016 Edition to officially kick off the celebration, at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos ...Friday

Diamond Bank sacks over 400 staff

Tony Chukwunyem t was a bleak ‘Democracy Day’ weekend for over 400 staff of Diamond Bank Plc, as their appointments were terminated by the mid-sized lender on Friday. Sunday Telegraph’s findings revealed that although the latest layoffs by the bank had long been expected by the staff, they were still caught unaware by the development. A source at the bank told this newspaper that when most of the affected staff resumed for work last Friday, they had no inkling that it would be their last day with the lender. The source said, “The first sign that made us notice something was going on

was that many people could not log into their systems. At first, we thought it was a network problem; but it soon became clear that staff who could not log in had been sacked.” The source further revealed that most of the people who were disengaged were mainly middle level staff such as Customer Service Managers (CSM) and some workers in the Human Capital Department. The source said, “As as at now, we cannot ascertain the actual number of people that have been asked to go but we heard that they are between 400 and 600 and that many Customer Service Managers(CSM) are affected. There had been speculation that Branch Managers

were compiling list of people to be sacked but nobody expected that they had chosen the end of May to carry out the exercise.” Attempts by this newspaper to confirm the development from a spokesman of the bank were not successful, as he failed to call back with details several hours after she promised to. Financial analysts have predicted that the economic downturn in the country, coupled with regulatory headwinds, would lead to many banks sacking staff this year, as part of cost cutting efforts. Indeed, respected economist and Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) Limited, Mr. Bismarck Rewane,

predicted last January that banks may commence massive staff retrenchment in Q2 2016, due to the tough economy. Significantly, banks such as FCMB and Ecobank had already announced job cuts this year and there are indications that many lenders will soon follow suit. The tough economy has seen many lenders posting below par performance for both their full year December end 2015 and first quarter 2016 results. In fact, Diamond Bank, which held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Friday, was one of several lenders that issued a profit warning that it’s profits for 2015 will be lower than the previous year.

Philip Nyam Abuja

peaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara has congratulated Nigerians as they mark Democracy Day and 17 years of uninterrupted civil democratic rule in the country. The Speaker said this milestone event calls for sober reflections on our achievements and failures as a democratic nation, according to a statement issued by his spokesman Mr. Turaki Hassan. Dogara said, as a major symbol of democracy, the House of Representatives under his leadership, promises to continue to strengthen our democratic growth and development through legislating for the needs and aspirations of Nigerians. “The 2015 general elections that brought the opposition party headed by President Muhammadu

Buhari to power shows that our democracy has matured and come of age. “As Nigeria faces serious economic challenges as a result of dwindling oil revenues and mismanagement of our resources, Nigerians should be hopeful and trust the capacity of the current democratically elected government to confront these problems and provide lasting solutions. “Indeed, we should patiently await the results of the current policies and actions of government which we believe will soon begin to yield positive results.” According to the Speaker: “It is not an easy task and we are not yet there, but with hard work, commitment, dedication and patriotic zeal on the part of all Nigerians and good, accountable and corrupt-free government by leaders, our democracy will soon begin to deliver on its promise of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

OPINION

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, 29 MAY 2016

One Year of President Buhari: Challenges and Perspective Ayobami Ismail Akanji

he Buhari administration was inaugurated on the 29th of May 2015, a period when the world economy experienced challenges of considerable magnitude. He took over the affairs of Nigeria at a time the price of crude oil was at its lowest ebb, when the rate of insecurity was alarmingly high and at a point national political tension was at its peak. It is unarguable that in the past one year President Muhammadu Buhari’s government has been surrounded by grim challenges that needed immediate attention, whereas, the resources to address them are not available. Nevertheless, the government took the bull by the horn and continued to forge ahead in the business of politics and economic development. Predictably, but not surprisingly, the first sharp and prompt move that still generates tension, controversy and criticism is the fight against corruption. Nigerians perceived it differently: some argue that it is one sided, Nigerian masses applauded it, the opposition sees it as witch-hunt policy. Everyone is free to hold to a position at will, but one thing is clear: since the advent of President Buhari, corruption has been attacked from different angles. For instance, the audacity and impunity for corruption has been bruised, its eyes have become blurred, and it is presently limping and having constant stomach ache and back pain. It is believed that if Nigerians support the anti-corruption crusade, the government will be able to lay a solid structure for a corrupt free Nigeria. Those criticising the fight against corruption of the government may be right in their own opinion, but the truth is that the anti-corruption crusade must prevail; it is a right step in the right direction. All Nigerians must support it. The EFCC has recovered over three billion U.S dollars in stolen funds, seizure of

assets derived from criminal proceeds and pursuing other convicted looters. While complementing the agency’s efforts, government has introduced various transparent mechanisms in blocking leakages; the Treasury Single Account, TSA a mop up of all funds accrued for government into a single account presently has over three trillion naira, Efficiency Unit E-Unit which monitors the expenditure of all Ministries Departments and Agencies MDA’s. However to underscore his commitment towards eradicating the malaise of corruption which has been the bane of Nigeria’s development and progress, President Buhari has reinforced public trust in government through transparency and leadership by example: He has demonstrated a more robust response to terrorist threats and improved the state’s ability to raise revenue by blocking leakages for corruption and fraud. President Buhari attended the Anti–Corruption Summit in London to galvanize global support in the fight against corruption, a clear path to recovering stolen funds and repatriation of monies hidden in safe havens and tied to properties in the United Kingdom. With all these commitment and the political will to tackle corruption, his resolve to restore a new order of governance in Nigeria is right on course. Security is another area where the Buhari Presidency has shown its deft military capability and strategic effectiveness by virtually decimating the hitherto Boko Haram elements within the last 12 months. They once held forth, seizing and occupying Nigerian sovereign territory unchallenged. The good news is that today our military has the upper hand over the terrorists. The wanton destruction by the insurgents on the economy, education, health sectors including the corresponding impact on humanitarian activity in the North East region was really incalculable; it is established that 910 schools have been destroyed, 1500 forced to close down, 9 billion dollars’

worth of infrastructure has been destroyed. The advent of this administration is charting a new course for the country. Within 12 months of a strategic leadership of the Commander in Chief and his lieutenants, the dreaded terrorists are fast becoming an annihilated group, who have lost top commanders (Amirs) to the superior fire power of the Nigerian Army. The army’s continued Operation Crackdown on the dreaded Sambisa Forest has militarily weakened the armed group and dealt a big blow to their morale, a result which is the freedom of the Chibok abductees which signals a ray of hope in securing the remaining 218 students. President Buhari has overhauled the military hierarchy which resulted in improved morale of the security forces. The first policy statement of the President a year ago was the deployment of the military command to the theatre of war, followed by a holistic reset with our regional partners who constitute the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) headed by a Nigerian. The trip to our regional allies to strengthen frosty relationship where necessary and cannot be over emphasized. The second Regional Security Summit hosted by the president underlines how Nigeria is consolidating her position within the continent and the world by large. With a new Sheriff in town, comes forth a brand new-nation full of hope and aspiration for excellence. President Buhari’s first year has tremendously improved the economic diplomacy of Nigeria, the desirable result are the bilateral and multilateral agreements been signed with industrial powers, a game changer for the economy. In the last one year, we have witnessed a deliberate economic policy, the diversification of the economy from a mono-economy to one which includes all natural resources abounded in the country, from agriculture, to mining, industrialization etc. Another incontrovertible benefit of the

goodwill that Nigeria currently enjoys today thanks to the travels of the President, is the generous offer of collaboration in various fields particularly, those centred on the three pillars that undergird the priorities of the present administration namely: to tackle insecurity, grow the economy and fight corruption in the country. Collaboration must be seen in its proper context, in essence, to work jointly or together to achieve desired goals. Those who have offered and are offering to collaborate with Nigeria under the leadership of President Buhari are saying that they will join hands and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with him in his efforts to tackle the country’s challenges. This benefit is inestimable; it does not come easily neither should it be taken for granted. The countries that have offered to collaborate with Nigeria are coming with a wealth of expertise and in some cases, material to complement the country’s effort. In so doing, they will help to meet the immediate needs, while building capacities for long time use. Nigeria owes a great deal of gratitude to President Buhari for achieving these results through his travels. Critics of President Buhari’s handling of his foreign policy have failed to recognize the great opportunity he has given to Nigerian businesses to explore and partner with their foreign counterparts. During his trips abroad, he is often accompanied by businessmen and women, who travel at their own expense, taking advantage of the President’s visits, to build new networks and undertake match-making. The President’s visits to the United States in July 2015, France in September 2015, India in October 2015, Qatar in 2016, and only recently, China, had these elements. The business fora that were organized in these countries were very successful in every sense of the word. Ayobami Ismail Akanji, a political strategist, writes from Abuja.

Message from people of Borno to Dasuki Salamatu Muhammad

he people of Borno have suffered blood spillage, lost lives and properties in the hands of some God forsaking, unscrupulous and unpatriotic individuals popularly called Boko Haram terrorist group based in the North Eastern Nigeria. The activities of the terrorists have caused the people of Borno State untold hardship since 2009 when the crisis started, many people have died, many properties lost, while other traumatized as a result of the horrific experiences, as a result of destruction and displacement from their communities. Despite the unholy actions of the terrorists, the then administration of former President Goodluck, under which embattled Sambo Dasurki served as National Security Adviser, showed ‘I don’t care’ attitude towards taking decisive measures to tackle the insurgency, instead they rather used the insurgency as a conduit pipe for siphoning public funds consequently playing politics with peoples’ lives. In several occasions the Nigerian military complained of lack of weapons and adequate funding to face the Boko Haram

insurgents, which affected their morale and courage to face the terrorists. They often took to their heels whenever they heard that the insurgents were coming, because they believed they don’t have the firepower to face them. The reputation of our once courageous gallants military officers that were celebrated in peace keeping missions across the globe had been lost in the eyes of the international community including our neighbours of Chad, Niger and Cameroon. The administration of ex-President Goodluck used the insurgency to secure N2 billion dollars arms deal and allegedly squandered it through the office of the former National Security Adviser, Col Sambo Dasuki (rtd). The illegal deal was revealed following an interim report of the presidential investigations committee on arms procurement under the Goodluck

Jonathan administration set up by President Muhammadu Buhari. The committee`s report indicates that an extra budgetary spending to about 2.2 billion dollars were squandered and diverted to fund the 2015 campaign of then ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Many believed Dasuki’s appointment would have brought to an end the terrorist activities in the region due to his experience, as many felt that the late Andrew Azazi was not up to the task. The fact that Dasuki was a northerner from the royal family of the Sokoto Caliphate, prompted many to receive the appointment optimistic that the insurgency would be checked, unfortunately the situation only got worse, as the insurgents attacked and occupied territories with as many as 25 local governments in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states under their control.

Many believed Dasuki’s appointment would have brought to an end the terrorist activities in the region due to his experience, as many felt that the late Andrew Azazi was not up to the task

Thank God with the unprecedented victory of Muhammadu Buhari as the president in 2015 the department of State Security Service (SSS) arrested him for allegedly fretting away the money meant for fighting Boko-Haram. He was also accused of awarding phantom contracts to purchase military hardware that was never bought. The Dasuki’s arrest did not come to many as surprise, as it was under his watch that the Nigerian army was stripped of its agelong reputation. It sunk to an extent where troops of the Nigerian Army, which were hitherto described as Africa’s strong force were seen running away from the battlefield barefooted. Thousands of lives and property worth billions of naira were destroyed as a result of the persistent bomb blasts and organised massacres that went on in the north particularly in Borno State. I want to end by calling on President Buhari to make sure that all other people like him (Sambo Dasuki) is brought to justice until they realize that this time around, government means business. Salamatu Muhammad writes from the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri, Borno State

SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

Dickson: PDP govs are behind Makarfi

Ibraheem Musa, Kaduna

overnor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has pledged the support of all governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Interim National Chairman of the party, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi. The Governor, who visited Makarfi at his home in Kaduna yesterday, said that PDP now has a focused leader - someone who is respected all over the country. Dickson, who is the Chairman of the PDP National Reconciliation Committee, congratulated Senator Makarfi “on his emergence as the National Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, a job that he didn’t seek for.” “I want to thank you for taking up the gauntlet. I want to thank you for being a good party leader as you have always been, for being the agent for the rebirth of

our party in these very trying times. “I am here in my capacity as the Chairman of the Reconciliation Committee of our party, and in times like this, all leaders and party men and women need to put aside, personal ego and put the interest of our party before any other thing. “Nigeria needs PDP and PDP is coming back strong. PDP now has a focused leader, a person that is trusted and respected across the nation. “Mr. Chairman, let me tell you what you already know. All your governors are behind you and I have, in my capacity as Chairman of the National Reconciliation Committee, been in touch with leaders of our party across the length and breadth of our country and one thing everybody says is that, with you as our national chairman, our party has gotten it right. “Let me use this opportunity also to call on all leaders of our party to refrain

from making legal points out of what is essentially a political misunderstanding within a family. People should resort to political solution and political solution comes by engagement and meetings and interaction of party leaders, not litigation in the law courts. “I want to also caution that people should say less in the media, we should see less abuses. People should refrain from making comments that will not promote the cause of reconciliation. “We are on the path of reconciliation and I am here to brief you on the efforts that are ongoing and also to seek your counsel on the way forward. “We have no doubt Senator Makarfi will build a strong and formidable PDP,” Dickson stressed. In his short speech, Makarfi said, PDP was only on sabbatical, but it has a formidable team that will bring it back to power in 2019. He also said, that the party

must acknowledge its past mistakes in order to move forward. “We need to reconcile, we need to acknowledge where we went wrong. It is a good virtue to say sorry where you are wrong. It is a good virtue to reconcile. Every day, whether Christian or Muslim, we pray. It is because we knowingly or unknowingly offend our creator, asking for His forgiveness and reconciling with Him. “No doubt, in the cause of events, we must have hurt each other. Why can’t we talk to each other, reconcile with each other and learn from past mistakes?” he said. Makarfi also apologised to all members of the party. “From whichever side they belong, who feel hurt by whatever means. Litigation may just give you a legal victory, but it may not give you a permanent peace and harmony amongst your family. “

PDP frustrated Tinubu’s efforts to develop Lagos – Oba Akiolu Tony Okuyeme

is Royal Majesty, Oba Riliwanu Babatunde Osuolale Akilu 1, Oba of Lagos, has said that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government frustrated efforts by Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to develop the state when he was the governor. He said the leadership of the PDP at the time was unhappy with Tinubu for his ‘stubbornness and always going to court over any issue’. The Oba of Lagos stated this on Saturday while delivering the inaugural colloquium for ‘Lagos at 50’ festival held at Glover Hall, Custom Street, Lagos. According to him, Lagosians dislike Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) because of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. “Many things that Tinubu wanted to do when he was the governor, but they frustrated him. For instance, the Lekki Bridge and many other projects, which he (Tinubu) wanted to do to develop the state. They frustrated him, because of sheer wickedness,” he said, adding that the leadership of PDP at the time saw Tinubu as “very stubborn”,

and went to court over “any little thing”. It will be recalled that Tinubu, while he was Governor of Lagos State, was involved in a struggle with the Federal Government over whether Lagos State had the right to create new Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) to meet the needs of its large population. The controversy led to the Federal Government seizing funds meant for local councils in the state. Continuing, the Oba of Lagos recalled how the led a delegation to the then President over the issue, and after the presentation, the president said: “Yes I have listened to your presentation, but that your governor is too stubborn. Any little thing he goes to court. He can win in court and I will make the condition impossible.” The Oba, however, noted that the call for the state to be given special status will be realised someday. “We should all be thankful to God Almighty for the creation of Lagos State. From the word go, I was involved in the whole exercise,” Oba Akiolu said. He called on all Lagosians to join hands with Governor Akinwunmi Ambode to develop the state.

Veteran Nollywood actor, Martins Njubuigbo gets succor

S L-R: Senators Stella Oduah, Binta Garba Masi, Biodun Olujimi, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Gu Xiaojie, Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, Senator Monsurat Summonu and a Chinese Embassy official, when the Ambassador visited the Senate President in Abuja recently

FG to resolve crisis over Aero’s Umahi recalls sacked LG takeover by AMCON chiefs Clem Khena-Ogbena ABUJA

he Minister of State for Aviation, Mr. Hadi Sirika, has said that Federal Government is taking drastic measures aimed at resolving the lingering crisis that resulted from the take-over of Aero airlines by the Assets Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON). Sirika admitted that AMCON is facing challenges in reviving the airline for profitability, noting that the company lacked trained aviators and thus does not have the competence to hire the labour and expertise required to turn around Aero. The minister said this while addressing members of the Air Transport Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSAN), led by Mr. Benjamin Okewu,

in Abuja. He added that government has initiated action towards salvaging the airline and how AMCON will hand over the firm for operations. Though Arik is also being confronted with indebtedness to agencies in the ministry, the minister said that Aero and Arik will not go down; adding that operating an airline is about viability and sustainability. The minister further said: “We cannot fold our arms and see the death of our local airlines. The environment will be made more conducive for them to operate efficiently.” He, however, disclosed that a committee has been set up to look into the debt Arik is owning agencies, adding that the debt being owed parastatals is of serious concern to government.

bonyi State Governor, Chief Dave Umahi yesterday recalled the 30 Development Centres coordinators and management committee members in some local government areas of the state who were relieved of their appointments over the South-East Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Congress in Enugu. There was a clash between Umahi’s supporters and that of his Senior Special Adviser on Internal Security, Ali Odefa during the congress over the zone’s chairmanship of the party which nearly marred the exercise. The Governor after the congress announced the sack of all the LG appointees in the state loyal to Odefa and other stakeholders who supported Odefa during the drama. Yesterday, Umahi made a u-turn and recalled the sacked appointees. He directed that they will undergo

the State Assembly screening which they passed through in their earlier appointments. ‘’The incident that happened in Enugu during the South-East PDP congress in Enugu was a mutiny and everybody know the penalty for taking part in a mutiny. ‘’But in the spirit of forgiveness, all the coordinators and management who were sacked because of the matter will be giving fresh appointments. ‘’They have to go back to the State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation. We have forgiven you but tell your masters that Ebonyi problems can only be solved here in Ebonyi state and not outside the state. ‘’On the issue of my son Ali Odefa, I will also forgive him and he remains my Senior Special Assistant. He will be redeployed by me to another section of Government’’, he said.

uccor has finally come the way of veteran Nollywood actor, Martins Njubuigbo, popularly known as Elder Maya as his medical bills have been sorted out by popular Abuja pastor, Joshua Iginla. Reports have it that Elder Maya, who is arguably the longest surviving Nigerian actor, is down with a liverrelated problem as the actor is down with a swollen leg and stomach which causes him pain. But on Sunday May 22, 2016 during the

birthday ceremony of the clergy man, one of the colleagues of the aged actor, Bruno Iwuoha told the man of God about Elder Maya’s condition and the fact that he needs about N800,000 to undergo operation and that some of his colleagues have been soliciting for funds from kind hearted Nigerians. Upon hearing this, Brother Iginla frowned at the move by his colleagues to beg for fund to save Elder Maya’s life.

CHANGE OF NAME

OLUDAYO

JOSEPH

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Stella Oludayo Adeoye Adeaga now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Bankole-Bakare Oludayo Stella. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

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

CHANGE OF NAME

MICHAEL

PETER

I formerly known and addressed as Adedamola Micheal Adelekenow wish to be known and addressed as Michael Tari Adeleke. All former documents remain valid. Skye bank Plc, Fidelity bank Plc and the general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Agbo Innocent Onyekachinow wish to be known and addressed as Obi Peter. All former documents remain valid. Diamond bank Plc and the general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

NGOZI I formerly known and addressed as Udeh Cecilia Ngozi now wish to be known and addressed as Etea Cecilia Ngozi. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

AKIKIMA This is to confirm that Kuromiayibaye Teidei Righteous Akikima is the same person as Kukuromiayibaye Akikima which wrongly spelt on my BVN at Sterling bank and Kuromiayibaye Teidei Righteous which appear in my NECO/WAEC result. That henceforth I now wish to be known and addressed as Kuromiayibaye Teidei Righteous Akikima. All former documents remain valid. Sterling bank Plc and the general public should please take note.

O i

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

Sokoto: Quiet policies making loud impact

Imam Imam

oday, May 29, 2016, the present democratic experiment clocked one year and all over the country, governments will roll out the drums to celebrate their achievements and make renewed commitments to the citizenry. In Sokoto, it has been 365 days since the election of Aminu Waziri Tambuwal as Governor of the state. It has been a time different approach to governance. While expectations were high following the ouster of the former ruling party at the national level, Tambuwal and his team understood the need to render diligent service to the people. That diligence was spiced up with innovations that have not only made the necessary impact, but have galvanised the citizens into being part of the governance process. As a member of the new breed political class, it is safe to say that Tambuwal and his team know too well that doing things the old way is never an option. This is because in addition to the glaring failure of the past, the old ways have left a toxic feel in the political firmament of the nation. To make the future secure, the present has to be ruffled. Far reaching --- and I dare add innovative --- decisions were taken to ensure the mistakes of the past were not repeated while at the same time making the necessary impact on the people. Key sectors in the state have felt the impact. As one columnist recently pointed out, in Sokoto, governance trumps politics because all the buttons of development have been pressed. The last one year has seen its fair share of emotional pain for the people of Sokoto. In September 2015, 114 pilgrims who were away for the annual Muslim pilgrimage died during the now infamous Hajj stampede in Saudi Arabia. Twenty-two other citizens have been missing since then while two sustained various degrees of injuries. They were treated and

discharged. Reeling from this pain for a huge number of its citizens, Tambuwal quickly stepped in by providing support to the families of the victims. In that regard, the sum of N500,000 was given to each family of the 138 victims. In terms of social intervention, Sokoto is shoulders above its peers in the country. Even when the Federal Government was yet to decide on payment of benefit allowances to the vulnerable members of the society, Sokoto had implemented the policy by giving the sum of N6,500 to extremely poor citizens monthly. In addition to this, less privileged members of the society do not have to pay for drugs in hospitals because the government sets aside N10 million monthly for provision of free prescribed drugs to the sick who cannot afford to purchase the drugs. The funds are kept in selected hospitals and pharmaceutical stores in different parts of for easy access. In education, the impact made by Tambuwal is very visible. First, he declared a state of emergency in the sector and followed that up with a release of N1 billion for settlement of fees for Sokoto students studying in various schools across the globe. The school expansion and renovation project has already commenced in four schools namely: GGC Rabah, GGMSS Illela, GSS Tureta and GDSS Sabon Birni. The government also provided free forms to 8,000 beneficiaries who sat for the unified tertiary institutions admissions examinations in April this year. As a demonstration of its new found commitment for the sector, government set aside 29% of its 2016 budget estimate to education, the highest allocation in the budget and far above the UNESCO-recommended 26%. Government thereafter flagged off a programme to enroll over one million children into schools in the present academic calendar. Happily, the target has already been met after a total 1,193,760 pupils were enrolled into basic education level for the 2015/2016 academic

session. More teachers have been recruited while a committee set up to proffer solution to the challenges confronting the sector has just submitted an interim report. Watch this space because more far reaching decisions are on the way. In addition to the provision of free drugs, government has passed legislation that has totally transformed the delivery of service in the primary healthcare sub-sector. The PHC under-one-roof policy has streamlined control and removed unnecessary bureaucracy in the implementation of health goals in Sokoto State. In terms of immunization, after certifying the state polio, lassa and guinea worm free, one million children were immunized against measles in February alone. Within the first few months of the second year of the present administration, a signature policy, one that will transform healthcare delivery in the state for ever, will come into effect. About three million citizens are expected to benefit from the Community Contributory Health Scheme. One of Tambuwal’s campaign promises was to enhance collaboration with the private sector and empower small businesses to deliver quality service to the populace. In that regard, the sum of N2 billion was set aside by the government and the Bank of Industry (BoI) as intervention fund for the development of micro, small and medium scale enterprises in Sokoto State. Another N2 billion set aside for the implementation of UNICEF’s 2016 Work Plan in Sokoto. The sectors are education, health, environment, sanitation and nutrition. Not contented with that, the government signed an MoU with two firms, Erisco Foods Ltd and Prime Gold Fertilizer Company for the establishment of a tomato processing factory and a fertilizer plant in Sokoto. Works toward implementation are at advanced stage. When completed, both entities will provide employment opportunities to thousands of people and open markets for farmers and

their produce. Tambuwal’s innovative approach to leadership is more visible in the management of the state’s environment. After reintroducing the monthly sanitation exercise following a decade of suspension, the government then introduced a monetary incentive to have the cleanest neighbourhood rewarded with cash. Without much prompting, people embraced the idea and the quantity of refuse churned out from inner streets within the few week of the implementation nearly overpowered evacuators. Sokoto has now regained its place as one of the cleanest cities in the federation. To mitigate the effect of desert encroachment, it now mandatory for any person building a new house in Sokoto to plant a tree within his/her premises. No column space will properly capture what Tambuwal has done in the last one year. That is the duty of book writers to attempt, but it is worth mentioning here that having created employment opportunity for close to 20,000 people in different sectors, notably agriculture, mining and the state civil service, and seeing to the creation of 1,000 new millionaires following the payment of N2.6 billion to nearly 2,000 retirees, the upward trajectory of impact on the economy of the state will only continue. After coming to power in a time of raging economic crisis, with many states struggling to even pay monthly salaries of their workers, Tambuwal has steadied the ship and prevented a wreck. In one year, he has engineered quite a few quiet revolutions that are today making loud impacts in his state. His approach to issues like legislative harmony, youth and women empowerment, environment, finance and civil service reforms has reshaped governance and stood his administration out as a government of relentless activism. •Imam is the Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs to Governor Tambuwal. He’s on Twitter @imamdimam

we all wish the road to progress could be... www.insightnigeria.com

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SUNDAY 29 MAY, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

ONE YEAR OF MAKING KADUNA GREAT AGAIN Malam Nasir El-Rufai was elected Governor of Kaduna State to make Kaduna Great Again. In the ﬁrst year he is steadily estora ogr duca e, Jobs, Infrastructure, and.Security implemen

2503 KASTELEA marshals were recently inducted to enforce traﬃc and environmental laws

With N3b arrears to contractors se

Groundbreaking for Olam poultry project

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo performed the groundbreaking for 2000 mass housing units

ater project is being accelerated

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu launched the Kaduna Cabs scheme

El-Rufai’s school-feeding programme feeds 1.5m primary school pupils every school day

IGP Arase accepts 107 vehicles donated by the Kaduna State Government to the security agencies

SCHOOL RENOVATIONS ALL OVER THE STATE

UBE Badagari, Giwa

LEA Abdullahi Faskom, Zaria

LEA Jaudu, Kachia

LEA Rubuchi, Zaria

LEA Unguwan Pachi, Kachia

LEA Sakwai, Kachia

SUNDAY 29 MAY, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY 29 MAY, 2016

Body&Soul 18

SUNDAY, 29 MAY

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SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

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Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current obsession

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, 29 MAY 2016

Body&Soul with

Wole Adepoju 07037763410

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times for Nona Yeni Kuti gets marriage proposal at 55 Happy Adimora

ue to the rascally nature of the iconic Afrobeat music creator, late Fela Anikulapo Kuti, his first child, Yeni, just like her siblings, suffered stigmatisation and not many wanted to identify with them even though there were others who understood what their father stood for and gladly mingled with them. Obviously, all that is

now in the past as Yeni and her younger ones are celebrated individuals, doing well in their various fields of endeavour. Having quit as a professional dancer, she is now fast carving a new image for herself as a television show host. Her looks and admirable frame hides her age and without a doubt, self-styled Yeni is ageing gracefully. May 24 was another special day for the mother of one as it was the day she clocked 55 years on earth. Aside the joy of hitting another year, she had no inkling that pleasant surprises were in the offing for her on that same day. She eventually found out at the venue that her lover had perfected a surprise birthday bash for her. In attendance at The Prince of Anthony Hotel venue of the bash were her two brothers, Femi and Seun Kuti, among many other people. The greatest surprise of the night for the lady at the centre stage would eventually come when her lover of many years, Theo Lawson, proposed to the birthday girl in the presence and admiration of their guests. Meanwhile, the event had a historical colouration. While dark skinned and well -built Theo proposed to Yeni with the wedding ring of his mother, the hall where it took place at The Prince of Anthony Hotel, Anthony area of Lagos, equally happened to be the hall where late musical legend, Fela, got married to 27 women in a day. It would be recalled that YK Power, as Yeni is popularly called, was engaged to Femi Segun, who died in a power bike accident three years ago. Although, their union produced 27-year-old Rolari, who got married not long ago, Yeni and Segun had long separated before he passed on.

Much ado about Agunloye’s ambition

Abiola Bashorun trudges on

hether in Ondo State where he hails from or on the national scale, Akoko born Dr. Olu Agunloye does not need any introduction before he’s placed. The former university lecturer occupies the front row in the league of illustrious and proud sons of the Sunshine State. Aside being able to do very well for himself as well as people of his community and beyond, he has equally made the state proud as he has meritoriously served the nation at various capacities as one time FRSC boss and minister of power and steel. His capabilities and abilities can also not be undermined as a politician even as he brandishes a clean slate of personality. One open secret about the former university don is that he’s got his gaze on the coveted governorship seat of his state and this ambition, it will be recalled, he has been nursing for a while. Some were initially skeptical about the likely success of his outing, but his approach may have started yielding result as not only observers are now having a change of heart about his ambition but stakeholders have shivers going down their spines as the calculation is fast swinging in favour of Agunloye. It was thought that the battle was going to be strictly between APC and PDP but the momentum the aspiration of Agunloye is gathering may have favourably drafted SDP into the mainstream. Agunloye boasts of an intimidating academic record. Also, his abilities have been tested during his national assignments and keen observers are of the opinion that his spotless personality is working in his favour.

ona Adimora came from a noble family in the Eastern part of the country. Just like her older sister, society big girl, Nkiru Anumudu, Nona in her own right cannot be shoved aside from the procession of society faces as she’s got all it takes to be labelled a society lady. She’s equally influential and connected in her own right. Nona was in the United States of America for many years where she was established along with her husband but when the centre could no longer hold, she put the marriage behind and later relocated to Lagos to reintegrate herself. She has since relocated to the Federal Capital City, Abuja, where she’s been running her business. She has remained unmarried but relishes the fact that she’s got her children as her source of joy. Nona, Celeb Lounge can tell, is presently in high spirits for a worthy course which borders on her children. Her happiness is at the climax following the graduation of her children from the university. Her 21-year-old twins, a boy and girl, just graduated from St. John University, New York. Beautiful Nona and her long separated husband, who she claims to have a cordial relationship with, Chima Mbadugha, were on hand to celebrate with their children at the graduation ceremony.

Duro Meseko celebrates at 50

ousehold of top media consultant and politician, Honorable Duro Meseko, will still be in frenzy as you are reading this on the heel of the celebration which has pervaded their home over the attainment of the golden jubilee age of the amiable dark skinned dude. The easy going and humble dude, who is former special adviser to former governor of Kogi State, Idris Wada, some days ago, attained the age of 50. Turning 50 naturally is a source of excitement and a thing of joy, and it was not different in the case of the man at the centre stage who was not just excited and happy, but went a step further to make sure the day was a memorable one. No lavish bash was thrown, but to show his gratitude to his creator and let people feel his great mood, invites were extended to family members, friends and associates who were on hand to felicitate with the birthday boy at the low key gathering he put together in his abode at Abuja. Brilliant Duro, who is the director, media and publicity of late Audu/Faleke campaign organisation in the controversial Kogi governorship election, studied political science at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Following the feat recorded with the award of the best corper, Duro was handed an automatic employment with Courier Magazine, from where he moved on to greater heights as a pen pusher. Having distinguished himself in his chosen profession and had demonstrated his concern for his people, he was elected to the lower chamber of the National Assembly, House of Representatives in 2013 to represent the people of Kabba, Binu and Ijumu Federal Constituency of Kogi State. He has since remained a factor among his people as well as in the political arena of his state.

aving started as a model, Abiola Bashorun must have set her gaze at certain accomplishments which made her put in for high profile pageantry as Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria. Of course, luck may have played a significant role in seeing her go home with the coveted crown amidst several other beautiful and qualified girls that contested for the crown. But one quality this former beauty queen possesses is that she’s got determination and zeal to chase whatever she sets as her target. Beautiful Abiola, it will be recalled, won the coveted crown of Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria in 2006 at the age of 18 and her pet project which she was so passionate about was “Awareness on sickle cell”. As a beautiful young lady who had been thrown into the limelight at such a tender age, even with a lot of men on her trail, many would have excepted her to be carried away by all that and the glamour that came with being a beauty queen but Abiola never lost focus of her dream to further her education. Putting her rumoured love tale with the Koko master, D’Banj behind her, she enrolled in the University of West England, Bristol, where she studied law. She has since gotten through and just finished Law school, in her bid to be well grounded in the law profession, she hopes to practice. Celeb Lounge can reveal that Abiola has just resumed in a Lagos based law chamber where she’s learning more ropes while she perfects the process that will lead her to the bar.

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Nigeria’s first ladies Vanessa Okwara

he Constitution of Nigeria has no provision for the office of the First Lady, wife of the president. However, official funding and staff have been allocated to the First Lady of Nigeria since the country’s independence. This position has traditionally been held by the wife of the President, concurrent with his term of office. The position carries no official duties, but over the years, the First Lady has been known to organise and attend official ceremonies and functions of state

either along with, or in place of, the President. The position is largely one of status, as first ladies have been known to wield influence in a range of sectors. The office of the Nigerian first lady was made visible in 1987 by the late Mrs. Maryam Babangida when her husband, Major General Ibrahim Babangida, was the military president. Mrs. Babangida’s pet project, Better Life Programme for Rural Women, subsequently helped to make the office of the first lady even more noticeable and glamourous. As the military handed

over the reins of power to democratically elected presidents, their wives towed the line by embarking on pet projects. Since the Independence in 1960, Nigeria has had 13 Heads of State, with about the same number of first ladies. But since democracy was restored to Nigeria in 1999, there have been four first ladies. They are: late Stella Obasanjo, Turai Yar ’Adua, Patience Jonathan and Aisha Muhammadu Buhari. What is common place among these first ladies is that they are almost given as much power and privilege of office

as their husbands. When these first ladies step out in public, their appearance, fashion and lifestyle come under heavy scrutiny. It is worthy of note that each of these women created a unique style. Although one is late, we still love to remember her and her beautiful fashion styles. In this special edition of the 17th Democracy anniversary of our great nation, we bring to you the life and style of these ladies who have stood alongside their husbands to bring democratic governance to the nation.

Aisha Muhammadu Buhari: 2015 - present

isha Muhammadu Buhari, is the current First Lady of Nigeria. Mrs. Buhari has said she doesn’t want to be referred to as the First Lady, but rather as ‘wife of the president’. Aisha is a smiling , sweet and soft-spoken woman whose humility radiates as she has been described by people who have been privileged to meet her. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), and a master ’s degree in International Affairs and Strategic Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna. She obtained a Diploma in Beauty Therapy from the Carlton Institute of Beauty Therapy, Windsor, United Kingdom and specialised in Permanent Makeup, Mesotherapy and Micro-dermabrasion. She holds a post-graduate diploma in cosmetology and beauty from Academy Esthetique Beauty Institute of France. Prior to acquiring her higher degrees, Mrs. Buhari had pursued a career in Beauty and fashion. For years, Mrs. Buhari ran a successful business as the Founder/ Managing Director of Hanzy Spa and Principal of Hanzy Beauty Institute, a beauty salon with shops in Kaduna and Abuja. She is a resource person to the National Basic Technical Education (NBTE) on Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology and has participated in the curriculum development of Small Medium Enterprises for NBTE. She recently launched her book, ‘The Essentials of Beauty Therapy: A Complete Guide for Beauty Therapy’ and the event garnered a lot of media attention. As the wife of the president, her pet project, ‘Future Assured,’ which she launched recently in Abuja, is geared towards reducing maternal and infant mortality and support girl-child education. Her natural passion for beauty and fashion is overwhelming and this makes her interestingly unique and very fashionable. Her fashion sense has been described as modest, creative and awash with feminine colours. She favours the Hijab that is typical of Hausa ladies and in line with the tenets of her religion, Islam. During the President’s inauguration ceremony exactly one year today, Aisha Buhari looked absolutely gorgeous in her attire. She wore an orange dress and wrapped herself all up with a white veil that has a touch of orange and silver design. She finished up the look with a silver head tie and a purse to match. She is arguably one of the most beautiful first ladies Nigeria has had in a while. Although she has not been in the public space frequently, unlike her predecessors, any time she appears, she’s impeccably dressed in either lace or African print with colourful veils she loves to drape all over her body. Her makeup always looks professionally done as is expected of a beauty and makeup expert and she favours red lipstick and blushes. She also loves to wear eye glasses from notable designer labels. A devout Muslim and passionate wife of General Muhammadu Buhari, Aisha’s 25 years marriage to the president is blessed with five children and a granddaughter.

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of democracy Dame Patience Jonathan: 2010-2015

Hajia Turai Yar’Adua: 2007-2010

ame Patience Fakabelema Jonathan, is the immediate past First Lady of Nigeria and the wife of former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan. She has also served as a Permanent Secretary in her state, Bayelsa. She started her career as a teacher at the Stella Maris College, Port Harcourt, and Sports Institute, Isake. She then moved to the banking sector in 1997. She established the First Community bank in Port Harcourt called the Akpo Community Bank. Dame Patience Jonathan has been recognised locally, and internationally for her philanthropic works and political pragmatism. As as First Lady, her pet project was called Women for Change Initiative. Patience Jonathan is quite industrious and was engaged in a lot of businesses prior to joining her husband in politics. In December 2013, at the inauguration of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme Maternal and Child Health, otherwise known as MAMA Project, she stated that henceforth that her name would no longer be Patience but Mama Peace. Patience Jonathan has a very different public profile unlike other First Ladies before her. Patience Jonathan’s personality has sparked pretty much the same interest as that of her husband, Goodluck Jonathan, during and even after his presidential tenure. She is well-known to journalists and mimicked by comedians for her boisterous public appearances, provocative political statements and public speaking. Mama Peace, as she is popularly called, was meshed in a lot of controversies during her tenure as First Lady, but what you would not take from her was her resoluteness and focus in whatever she sets her heart out to do. Mama peace was also a power dresser during her time as First Lady. She is always charmingly dressed in African designs and was tied ‘Gele’. She loves to wear clothes that represent the women of the South-South and Bayelsa State where she comes from. She appeared mostly in laces, African prints, expensive gorges and heavy jewels that compliment her dressing. Sometimes she could be loud with her colour combinations, but she still carried herself confidently and really did not care about the opinions of others. Apart from her grammatical punch lines, Patience Jonathan will be remembered as the First Lady with the powerful dress sense. Also, the former First Lady, loved to rock unique shades that came in different colours.

Late Stella Obasanjo: 1999-2005

T H

ajia Turai Yar’Adua is the widow of former Nigerian President, Umaru Musa Yar’ Adua. She served as the First Lady from 2007 until the death of her husband, President Yar’Adua on May 5, 2010. Turai married Umuaru Yar’Adua in 1975 and they have five daughters and two sons. Turai Yar’Adua attended Garama Primary School in Katsina and Government Secondary School in Kankia, both in Katsina State. She later enrolled at Katsina College of Arts, Science and Technology in Zaria, Kaduna State, where she was reportedly named ‘Best student’ in 1980. In 1983, Turai received a bachelor’s degree in Language from Ahmadu Bello University. She had a short sojourn in the teaching profession before retiring to be a full-time house wife. Hajia Turai Yar’Adua was one First Lady that was rarely seen in public unless it was absolutely necessary and you rarely heard about her personal life in the media. Yet, she was perceived to be more influential in government than her husband, the late President Umaru Musa Y’Adua. Part of the speculations about her was that certain decisions believed to be taken by President Yar’Adua were indeed taken by her. This was one First Lady who wielded enormous influence in governance. She was believed to be the brain-box behind her husband, Musa Yar’Adua, first in Katsina, when he was the State Governor and later, when he became the nation’s President. Turai is a beautiful woman with demure sense of dressing that is typical of most Hausa women. She rarely makes public appearances, but when she does, she loves to wear well designed African prints, Hijab and laces with beautiful veils covering most of her body. Her quiet mien is reflective in her mode of dressing as well because she hardly wears bright colours or clothes that make her noticeable or stand her out in a crowd. She usually wears little or no makeup but she has a glowing skin that has defied her age.

oday, we remember Stella Obasanjo. She is the only Nigerian First Lady to have died in office. Stella Obasanjo (14th November 1945 – 23rd October 2005) was the First Lady of Nigeria from 1999 until her death. She was the wife of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Stella Obasanjo died a few weeks before her 60th birthday from complications of cosmetic surgery at a private health clinic in Puerto Banús, Marbella, Spain, on 23 October 2005 while undergoing elective liposuction. Stella Obasanjo first came into limelight during the Sani Abacha regime when she vigorously pursued the release of her husband who was charged for treason and jailed. At the height of it all, she took the campaign to the United Nations, New York. On her husband’s release, she eventually became the chief campaigner in his election bid. During her tenure as the First Lady, her pet project was the Child Care Trust, CCT, intended to ameliorate the plight of handicapped children and their mothers. Stella became famous not only for being the First Lady of Nigeria, married to Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, but also for being a political activist in her own right, supporting such causes as women’s liberation, youth as leaders of tomorrow, and also as a fashion icon. She was a trailblazer in her role as First Lady and showed Nigerian women the way to become more involved in the rebuilding of the country and always made sure she looked good and flawless all the time despite of her age. Stella was a head-turner in her days. Her glowing skin, carriage, unique fashion styles and beautiful smile stood her out at any function. She loved to deck her petite figure in beautiful contemporary clothes and African attires from well-known Nigerian designers. Late Stella spotted short Jerry curl hair she kept stylish. Late Stella was a woman who oozed class and elegance during her reign as the First Lady of Nigeria. Aside from Maryam Babangida, Stella Obasanjo was another First Lady who brought fashion to a halt at Aso Villa. Stella was reputed to be a lover of fashion and everything that has to do with looking good. It was alleged that she changed clothes, shoes and accessories, sometimes three times a day and never repeated an outfit. She indeed brought flamboyance and lots of glamour to the office of the First Lady. With a Diploma in English from Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Stella later proceeded to Pitman Institute, London, where she trained as a Secretary.

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Patra’s dilemma 5 Juliet Bumah

hree weeks later, Richie called Dr. KC. “Your test result was wrong, KC. Nothing wrong with me. I’m a man,” he told the doctor boldly, after their exchange of pleasantries. “I asked you to seek a second opinion, Richie,” KC said. “I did. Same result as yours. But my wife is pregnant. Look, I’ll come back to you for new tests to convince you you were wrong,” Richie told him. KC swallowed what he wanted to say. He felt sorry for his friend. “Sure, you can come for further tests,” he said instead. Richie was happy. Doctors are not always right after all. “Patra Williams, what did you do? Women!” KC said aloud. He felt very sorry for his friend. He wondered how it would all end. ******** Richie called Ruth. He had been calling her frequently. He had no doubt that Cherish and her brother were his children. Ruth was back in the hospital. She had taken ill. “I’ll fly in tomorrow morning. But I’ll spend only a night,” he told her. ******** Patra was on the phone with Pius. “My love, I’ll be back next week. I’ve missed you so much. I’m changing my flight schedule. I’ll route it through Lagos. Can’t wait to have you in my arms,” Pius said. “Darling, something came up. I should have told you earlier, but I didn’t know how to tell you. I still love you...” Patra began and Pius heart sank. “What is it my love? You want to leave me? If you do, I’ll kill myself, Patra,” he said gravely. “It’s not that darling. I’m...pregnant...” Pius didn’t allow her to say more. He screamed. “You’re pregnant for me! Oh my love, I knew it. I knew we are meant for each other. Thank you, my love. You have made me so happy,” he said, joy dripping from his voice. Patra managed to say the right words until they ended the conversation. Pregnant for Pius? How? She was confused. She remembered the sheath that slipped off in the Abuja hotel and her blood ran cold. But that was just once. How could Pius score a goal from a corner? Not when Richie could not achieve that from open net in more than eight years...unless...unless... unless Richie had been spurting impotent fluid! Patra felt hot suddenly. *** Richie sat beside Ruth’s bed in the hospital and rocked his new born son. Ruth had been treated for malaria. They would be going home the following morning. Ruth watched as he rocked the baby, examining his arms, legs, ears...every part of the baby with gleaming eyes. “We’ll call him Joshua, after my father,” he declared proudly. He would have named his first son after himself but his wife Patra was pregnant and something told him she would have a son who he would name ‘Richard Junior’. He smiled. The sun had started shinning for him, after years of childlessness. Ruth tapped him gently and he looked up. “Joshua is due for vaccination tomorrow. His ‘vaccination card’ is at home. You have

to get it so he can have it before we leave the hospital in the morning,” she said. “Oh, that’s cool. I’ll get it,” Richie told her. “It’s in a green office file in my wardrobe at home,” she said. *** Patra had just finished talking with Pius on the phone. They had ‘shopped’ for the last two hours. Pius was in a mall and would send her pictures of shoes, clothes, bags that caught his fancy through the Blackberry Messenger and she would make her choice. He even got her some maternity clothes. She smiled and caressed her belly. No matter the crazy thought running around her head, she would be happy. She sighed and picked up the medical report again and scanned through. Tears ran down her cheeks again. That morning, she had asked her husband’s driver to take her car to the mechanics for servicing. She took her husband’s car to the office. She dashed to the mall during lunch time to pick up a few things. As she shifted the pair of shoes and files in the booth of the car to create a space for the things she bought, she noticed a branded hospital envelop tucked neatly in a corner. She picked it up. It bore her husband’s name but it wasn’t the hospital they patronised. She threw the envelop into her handbag and forgot about it until she got home in the evening. She was rummaging in her bag for the house key when she saw it again. The content of the report shocked her. From what she made of the medical jargon, her husband had reproductive health issue! She

checked the date. It was a recent test. At this point, she didn’t know what to think. That would explain their years of childlessness! She could bet her life Richie did not know of his status until he did that test. She realised he wouldn’t want her to see that result. “Oh Lord, how did he feel when he got that result?” She felt for him. “But why did he go for the test in the first instance? Why didn’t he go to Dr. KC’s hospital?” Suddenly, she sat up! It just occurred to her that her problem had been compounded. If her husband had been spurting impotent fluid, then she was pregnant for Pius! And, it meant that that other woman had been taking Richie for a ride. He didn’t father her children...unless something was wrong in that report. If not, he wouldn’t have reacted the way he did to the news of her pregnancy. Yeah, things had been great in their home. Richie dotted on her so much now. He was ready to do anything for her to make her more comfortable. He would caress and kiss her tummy at every opportunity. She recalled what happened last night before he travelled this morning. He had taken her ever so gently and taken her to fantasyland while she had shown a bit of boldness and did some things she had only tried with Pius and others she had been doing in her imagination. Of course, Richie was surprised, but pleasantly so. He yielded to her ‘sure’ touch as she took charge and gave him everything, including a head. That one threw him over the fence. In his mind, the bulwark broke and the dam surged forward, drowning everything in its way. Patra showed him that

mating was not all about the show of strength. It could be a cool, silent breeze, blowing you unsteadily into a land of ‘no worry’. They slept, clasped in each other’s arms in that ‘no worry’ land till morning and woke up with happy faces. Patra smiled as she relived that experience. She was warm and wet all of a sudden. Hmmmmmmm! *** Richie sat on the couch in Ruth’s flat, a happy man. Last night with his wife crept into his mind and he smiled. It was exceptional. Patra! Where did she learn those tricks? He had crazy feelings as her tongue, like a calming feather, smothered his man. It was crazy. He called Ruth’s junior sister who was taking care of Cherish. “Martha, please get me the brown file in your sister’s wardrobe,” he told the girl. “Yes sir,” she replied and disappeared into the room and returned minutes later with a bag. “I said ‘FILE’,” Richie nearly screamed at her. “Sir, I no know file,” she said, fear in her voice. “It’s ok, Martha. I’ll get it myself. Is Cherish asleep?” Richie asked in a softer tone. She shook her head and said, “She no sleep. She dey look Barney for television.” “At past 7pm? She should be in bed now. Go and bring her,” Richie said, careful not to frighten her again. He went into Ruth’s bedroom and picked the file. Too many documents, so he took it to the bed and sat down. They were all hospital documents and a few others belonging to a Patricia Gyang. Patricia? Martha walked into the room, bearing a sleeping Cherish. She placed her on the bed and was walking away when Richie asked, “Who is Patricia?” She turned, surprised, and replied, “Na my sister, Mama Cherish, be Patricia.” “Oh, it’s ok. You can leave,” he told her. But nothing was okay. He emptied the file on the bed. Patricia Gyang, 36 years, blood group A+, genotype AA. What? How could she be 36 years when she told him she was 21 years when they met about four years ago? If she was 36 then, then she would be almost 40 now. He sighed audibly. So Ruth and Patra are age mates? He sifted through the documents. Another card bore Cherish Gyang, blood group O, genotype AS. “How can? I’m blood group A+, genotype AA like Ruth, how can our daughter be an AS? Oh my gawd! Is it possible that I’m not Cherish’s father? What about Joshua? Is he my son?” He picked up the ‘vaccination card.’ Baby Gyang, boy, 3.8kg at birth. Not much more on the card. He placed everything into the file, except the ‘card’, and returned it to the wardrobe. He went back to the bed, lay beside Cherish and closed his eyes, willing himself to sleep. No need thinking about any particular thing. His heart hammered. “Sufficient is the evil of this night,” he murmured as his head ached. **** Hmmmmmmm, I can’t shout! Let’s meet here on Sunday as the story continues. ************************** •Send your observations to: julietbumah@ gmail.com

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The Sunday Interview

The first year of change in Kaduna p.26

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As today marks one year of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, ANULE EMMANUEL takes a look at the President’s interventions and inactions in some key sectors of the economy

I’m a disgruntled octogenarian, says Adebanjo p.27

Olanipekun: Our democracy has produced overnight billionaires p.24-25

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Biyi Adegoroye Assistant Editor biyi.fire@yahoo.com © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

The gains and pains of Buhari’s change

ow times flies. It seems just like yesterday, several days have gone, reminiscent of that historic inauguration ceremony at the Eagle Square in Abuja on May 29, 2015 where hundreds of Nigerians and a number of foreigner gathered to witness the swearing-in of President Muhammadu Buhari and his vice, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, ushering in a new government in the country. President Buhari on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) had defeated then incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the keenly contested 2015 presidential election emerging as the fifth elected Nigerian leader. First time an opposition would be taking power from a ruling power in the country. The emergence of President Buhari and his party, poured in high hopes and expectations from Nigerians considering the huge promises which the APC and its presidential flag bearer made during the campaigns. These promises embodied some radical actions that are poised to making far reaching changes in the country’s polity and economic development. In fact, in his inauguration speech, President Buhari was explicit in assuring Nigerians that they would not regret for entrusting a national responsibility in him. He had listed insecurity, pervasive corruption as well as unending fuel and power shortages as some of the immediate concerns of his government. The main policy thrust of the administration therefore, is a re-invigorated and sustained fight against insurgency; declaration of total war against corruption; and poverty reduction through job creation. With one year down the lane, there has been mixed reactions on whether the administration has made any significant difference as compared the immediate past government which it ousted, touted to have been incompetent by its various critics. For a few critics of the current administration, President Buhari has yet to achieve anything tangible, in the view of persons in this category, most of the promises of change are rather fast becoming a mere mirage. While the President’s detractors have increased their criticism on his wide range of actions and policies, his supporters insist that Buhari remains the best thing to have happened to Nigeria since independence. Security One of the early credits to the President, right at the point of taking the oath of office and allegiance, was the exhibition of the level of seriousness to which government intended to tackle the nation’s insecurity problem that had engulfed particularly the North East

Buhari

region. In his inaugural statement, President Buhari ordered the immediate relocation of the Boko Haram command and control centre to Maiduguri, Borno State as part of the strategies to fight the insurgency which had claimed several lives. It was there at the Eagle Square that he also directed the release of $21m to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MJTF) to facilitate the establishment of the headquarters of the force in N’Djamena to facilitate the prosecution of the war. A few weeks after taking over power, the President proceeded with a complete overhaul of the leadership architecture in the Nigerian military as a deliberate step to injecting fresh ideas into fighting the terrorism war. Buhari was heavily accused for being too slow leading to escalation of activities of the insurgents before that decision. Aside this, it took several months for the President to form his cabinet, an action which many, contributed to slow pace in governance. The delay in the assent of the 2016 budget comes with its negative impact on economic progress as well. President Buhari has travelled widely to neighbouring countries of Chad, Niger, Mali, Cameroon and some advanced countries including France, Britain, United Arab Emirate (UAE) and America seeking for their cooperation in fighting the war against terror and his quest to tackle corruption which is

Odigie-Oyegun

believed to the bane of the country’s development. These trips have also not come without criticisms which government officials on their part however explained yielded results such as securing deals for mutual sharing of intelligence, technical military training, arms deals/donations in checking the security problems and those of tackling corruption. According to the Senior Special Assistant on media and publicity to the President Garba Shehu, several of the President’s trips abroad have been able to bring back Nigeria’s hitherto military allies including the US, Israel and the UK who have committed their resources to the fight against the insurgents after previously backing out of negotiations with the previous administration of former President Jonathan. At present, President Buhari continues to express confidence that his government has technically defeated the Boko Haram sect with the full recovery of about 14 local government areas. One unresolved challenge is the over 200 school girls still in the custody of the insurgents from whom about two of them including a mother of a four-months old baby, Amina Ali was recently received at the presidential villa. While the administration battles with the insurgency in the north east and other criminalities around the country, there has been resurgence of militancy activities in the Niger

Delta region with daily disruption of crude oil exploration leading to huge decline in the nation’s oil output of a high time low. The Niger Delta Avengers, a new militant group is threatening to widen its sabotage campaign unless the government of Buhari develops the region. Only recently, spokesman for the military, Brigadier General Rabe Abubakar was compelled to note that “the whole world is seeing what the militant groups in the Niger Delta are doing. “I want to believe that citizens of any country should not destroy their own land. He added, “however since they have decided to do what they are doing, the armed forces and other security agencies are planning and strategizing in order to respond at an appropriate time,” There is the fear that as long as this problem remains unsolved, government may be unable to achieve its very ambitious targets of infrastructure development already captured in the 2016 budget, since this would affect tremendously crude oil revenues which the country heavily depends on. Still on insecurity, although President Buhari insists that he has given a clear order to the military to tackle the killings of innocent farmers, women and children by herdsmen in Benue and parts of the country, an end to this crisis seems not be in sight. The killings CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

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The Sunday Interview

Olanipekun: Our democracy has Prominent Nigerian lawyer, Chief Wole Olanipekun, OFR, SAN, has bestridden the nation’s legal firmament like a colossus in the last three deades. Between 2002 and 2004, the legal icon was the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, where he left indelible footprints on the sands of time. The one time Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the nation’s premier university, in this interview with BIYI ADEGOROYE, takes a cursory look at the nation’s 17 years of uninterrupted democracy which he said has produced Mandarin billionaires Today, the nation’s democracy is 17 years old. What is your assessment of the journey so far? We are getting to a situation in Nigeria whereby those of us who call ourselves interventionists have to reappraise ourselves, to interrogate our conscience to see whether we are intervening in the interest of Nigeria and for Nigerians, or for our own selfish motives. At times, silence might be golden because you see a lot of people pontificating for self-interest, self-preservation, selfenhancement, self-motivation... I will not write off our 17-year democracy, and I will not in good conscience give it a pass mark. William Shakespeare said that the fault is not in our stars, but actually in ourselves. We should not be gazing at the stars. We should actually be asking ourselves such questions as how have we fared? Chief Olusegun Obasanjo was the President for eight years. I respect him as my elder. He is a Yoruba man and in Yorubaland we respect elders. But few people in the history of mankind have had the kind of opportunities which God bestowed Obasanjo. He was a Military Head of State and at a point in time, he passed through the valley of the shadow of death. God rescued him. Again, from prison, from the Sani Abacha gulag, he was invited to be President of this nation. How did he fare? History will judge him; history will judge his government. During his regime, a lot of things transpired. The entire commonwealth or a substantial part of the commonwealth of this nation was privatised. And you ask who were the beneficiaries? Till date, we have no database of the entire beneficiaries. Again, was the privatisation of the national assets just and humane? For how much were they privatised and did they follow due process? Will any of our leaders swear, particularly by the Holy Bible, Holy Koran or god of thunder, that they have been fair to Nigerians? What has our democracy produced? In the words of one of our professors at the University of Lagos in those days, our democracy has now produced Mandarin billionaires- people who don’t work, people who feast on the state, who live on the state, politicians and hangers-on who never earned any reasonable living in their lives. Today, they are the millionaires and billionaires and a good chunk of them are the leaders here and they are ‘the people we celebrate. Has there been internal democracy within the political parties in the country? You see, you don’t play Hamlet without the Prince of Denmark. When you talk of democracy, you talk of the political parties. In my own estimation, you have political parties when they have manifestoes, clear-cut ideologies, orientation, focus, mission and vision. It is when they have all these among others that each of them will say yes, we can forge the renaissance of a nation. Do we have any? In 1999, we had the PDP, AD and APP. Look at the constitution of each of them and look at the dramatis personae. To me and with all respect, I am trying to mind my words, they always want to take over power before thinking of what to do with it. I will say they are birds of a feather, flocking together. With the exception of those who have remained in the AD and from AD to AC, from AC to ACN and they are still a faction or fraction of the current APC, and they are very few.

Olanipekun

It is so easy for the average Nigerian politician to migrate from one political party to another, without blinking. What we have is political prostitution. They do it without any regrets, without any scruples or soberness. They do it so seamlessly. From 1999 to date, what are the gains? What are the dividends? How many roads have been tarred? Let us take Lagos where we are for example. Apart from what successive governments here have been doing, where is the federal presence in Lagos State? Where you and I come from, Ondo/Ekiti axis, show me the federal presence there? Show me the federal presence in Oyo and Osun? Let me not restrict myself to the South-West. Show me the federal presence in any of the South-Eastern states and even in the North-West, North-Central or in the North-East and we are talking of almost two decades of democracy. A 17-year period is a substantial time span in the life of any nation. However, what have we achieved, apart from metamorphosing from military oligarchy to now rearing some civilian despots? With all respect to former President Obasanjo, we will say that yes, he has a strong character and determination. He is also hard-working and intelligent. But he did not translate all these traits into good governance. He did not lay the foundation of good governance in Nigeria. He should have drawn a roadmap for credible governance in Nigeria during his eight year tenure as the chartered President. Now, what is your impression of the antigraft war since 1999? In terms of fighting corruption, many of us do it more on the pages of newspapers and

through the mass media. You don’t fight corruption through harassment of political opponents and for vengeful purposes. No. And I must not be seen as saying that corruption is good. No! I must not be understood to say that one must steal from the till, from the treasury. In fact, those who do it must have their heads examined; they should be taken for psychiatric examination. The values we inherited enjoin us to work for money, you must labour for it. If you have been invited to serve the nation in any capacity, you should see it as a great honour, because it is a thing of pride that you are called upon to serve your nation. And all over the world, in good countries, you don’t exploit your nation when called upon to serve. Let us take Bill Clinton for instance, until he left office, he did not have a property in Washington or anywhere else. But after his tenure, he wrote his memoirs which became a best seller all over the world. He also made a lot of fortune through speeches and lectures which he delivered around the globe, as he already acquired a good name as the President of the USA. The name attracts a lot of advantages, not only for him, but also for his wife who is now vying for the presidency of the same nation. And with few exceptions, since 1999, how many of our leaders can say, as at the time I took office, this was what I was worth and as at the time I left office, this was what I was worth? How many of them can swear? And again this will take us to the tenure of Murtala Mohammed, because fighting corruption is a revolution. You talk to your conscience; you talk to your God. When Murtala took office and wanted to wage war against corruption, he declared his assets and yielded to the State whatever was

deemed excessive. He remains a Nigerian leader for all times. How many of the successive Nigerian leaders have followed his good example? Murtala started privatisation, we are not aware he bought any of the enterprises. He was Head of State for just six months, but he governed meaningfully and altruistically! The Constitution makes it mandatory for the government to abolish corruption and abuse of power. Abolition of corruption and abuse of power is clearly spelt out in Section 15 (5) of the Constitution which says that “the state shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.” The Constitution makes it mandatory, so then how do you abolish corruption? And corruption has many faces? Nepotism is corruption, favouritism is corruption, high handedness is corruption, misgovernance is corruption. What we have been dealing with unfortunately, is one infinitesimal fraction of corruption. That is stealing from the till. We don’t care if some people abuse the Constitution, we don’t mind if others corrupt the system, we don’t bother if people disregard our statutes and abuse their high offices. We have people who are in government today because they have undermined the Constitution. Nothing can be as grievous as compromising the Constitution because it is a treasonable offence; it is felony. When the Constitution says the State shall abolish all forms of corruption, what it says is that you prevent them, short-circuit them, prevail against them, or sabotage perpetrators of corrupt acts. With respect to all successive governments since 1999, including that of President Buhari, what we are primarily doing is recovering loot. We are not fighting corruption holistically, and unfortunately

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produced overnight billionaires we tend to assume there is an anti-corruption agenda. Tell me the agenda because what I know as an agenda must have a blueprint, a roadmap, dos and don’ts. What the EFCC, police and government are doing is loot recovery. Because to fight corruption, there must be a modus operandi, there must be templates. We must also examine the causes and weigh the effects. Then, there must be leadership by example, that is, a leader who would say ‘do as I do, not do as I say’. There must be a Nelson Mandela type of leadership. There must be a leadership that must surrender itself to scrutiny and penetrating questioning. There must be a leadership that engages our conscience, talks to us on the ills of corruption day in day out; a leader must be able tell every person who wants to serve in his government if you cross the line and the amber light flashes at you, you would be fired. There must be a change from a system that takes the Central Bank as the ATM of whoever is the President. There must be a leadership that builds institutions which are independent of powers and principalities, institutions that can even challenge them when the need arises. Enduring institutions regulate the holders of public offices and not the other way round. I mean institutions like the Police, Judiciary, EFCC, INEC, ICPC, Immigration, Customs etc. What is happening today is that we are robotising and brainwashing the citizenry. To fight corruption, there must be trust between the government and the governed. There must not be mistrust, because a major problem in our nation today is that most people don’t trust the government any longer. Then for us to fight corruption, government must not rely on propaganda. There must be honesty of purpose, clarity of intention, and then the fear of God. In our bid to fight corruption, we must consciously de-emphasise serving in government as a money making venture. This leads me to the disturbing banner headline of The Sun newspaper of May 21, 2016 titled: “Shocking…Fraud rocks Board appointments- Grade ‘A’ agencies N50m, others N25m, each candidate”. The gist of the cover story is that some top officials in the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation are collecting as much as N50,000,000.00 and N25, 000, 000.00 respectively from candidates seeking appointments to Grade A & Grade B parastatals of the Federal Government. To my mind, this is another specie of corruption on the part of the payers and payees, and that when someone pays N50,000,000.00 to get a Board appointment, you are indirectly asking him to come and loot the treasury to recoup his expenses when he gets the appointment. A foremost duty of the police is to prevent corruption and crimes. Ditto for the EFCC. If we have the institutions then they should be able to prevent stealing from the till. Today, we are talking about the Diezeannigate, the Dasukigate. Was the EFCC not there when all these happened? What about the Police? Were they able to pre-empt or forestall them? What point am I making? That there is a difference between the sovereignty of the nation and the sovereignty of those who are in power. Have our institutions been able to confront temporary powers who have been in office since 1999? I think we have to reason together. When you want to fight corruption, you have to do it according to the law; due process must be followed. Anybody who has been found to have corruptly enriched himself, abused the Constitution or his office, should be arraigned in the courts of law and this should be done across board. The anti-corruption war should be prosecuted in a more mature, diligent, sober and discreet manner. The rule of law and Constitution must be adhered to. The point is that

Nepotism is corruption, favouritism is corruption, high handedness is corruption, misgovernance is corruption. What we have been dealing with unfortunately, is one infinitesimal fraction of corruption anyone who is accused shall be presumed to be innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction. That is, Section 36 (5) of the Constitution. We are not running an inquisitorial type of criminal jurisprudence. Ours is accusatorial and adversarial. He who asserts must prove. How do you see the precarious condition of the states of the federation? What is your impression about their desirability, and abuse of bailout funds? Now, let us leave politics out of this. If I were to advise President Buhari, I would say my dear President, run an inclusive and not exclusive government. Time is running out on us and we are running out of time. How do I mean? Can our economy accommodate 36 states, each with its own paraphernalia, including a Governor, Parliament, Judiciary etc. Do we need states that will be going cap-in-hand to the Federal Government every month? What do you mean by bailout funds? In the past one year, we have states that have not been able to pay salaries, do we still need to continue deceiving ourselves by parading 36 States when a substantial number of them are not viable? Why can’t we fall back on the recommendations of the National Conference convoked by President Jonathan and make the best use of them? Why can’t we also fall back to regional arrangement of governance? The point I am making is that we don’t need 36 States, and a host of them should be amalgamated. A state that cannot pay salaries can also not reasonably embark on any meaningful capital project, and most Nigerians conversant with history would agree that we were better off under the then four regional governments than now. The Buhari government must not consign the recommendations of the National Conference to the dustbin as government is a continuum. In my opinion, sovereignty of government is contingent on reciprocal responsibility by any government that is able to provide security, employment opportunities, infrastructure, health care delivery, education leverages etc to the citizenry. The citizens in that situation will have total fidelity and commitment to the nation. Today, our youths roam the streets, nobody cares for them and neither do we sympathise with them. Palliatives are no longer available. I often ask myself, where are the good agencies of old like DFFRI, NDE, the Peoples’ Bank? What every successive government appears to be doing is to pretend to be starting on a new slate as if Nigeria never existed. We have to sit up because our youths are very restless. Yesterday we were combatting Boko Haram, today it is IPOB, Niger Delta Avengers and the rest. We also have to devolve the excessive powers which the central government has arrogated to itself over the years, and make Nigeria a truly federal system of government instead of the present hydra-headed unitary government masquerading as a federal government. By creating unviable states and leaving them insolvent, the states become powerless while the federal government is continuously lionised. We also have excess funds at the centre on which looters feed fat. But the nagging question again is, can the present Buhari government do this? Or is it prepared to even do it?

How, in your opinion can government regain public trust? If I were Mr. President, I will do away with sycophants; I will ask hangers-on to distance themselves from me and I will tell all my ministers, the Vice-President and I have declared our assets, you go and do likewise and anyone who cannot do that, I will ask him to resign. I will tell my aides, look, let us stop singing all these discordant tunes. We should avoid a situation where the Minister of State for Petroleum is saying we are increasing fuel price because of subsidy removal and the National Chairman of the APC is chorusing the same thing, while the respected Vice-President is tying it to the scarcity of forex. I will make deliberate and concerted efforts to ensure that Nigeria joins the Paris-based International Action Against Financial Crimes and Money Laundering and I will direct the Nigeria Police, EFCC and the Central Bank to resolve with immediate effect which out of them would house the Financial Intelligence Unit in order to comply with the necessary provisions and ensure the effective operation of this important organ. I will tell the Police that by virtue of the Constitution, it is their duty to prevent crimes and that henceforth, they must apprehend anyone who sabotages the economy or who is abusing his office either by stealing or looting. As it is now, we are crying over spilt milk after they have looted and gone away with billions. I will give a marching order to the EFCC to activate Section 6 (e) and (f) of the EFCC Act which mandates it to adopt measures which would eradicate the commission of economic and financial crimes, and also put in place coordinated and preventive actions aimed at achieving control techniques for the prevention of financial related crimes. I will, like Babangida did, put in place a robust team of highly successful eminent Nigerians in diverse fields of human endeavour to assist me in re-building the country. In this wise, I will invite a brilliant mind like Prof. Pat Utomi into my government. This is part of making the government inclusive, rather than exclusive. Then I will also be tolerant of opposing views because what we have now in government, and with all respect, some of those who are in government believe that they have the monopoly of knowledge, wisdom and understanding. But it is only God who has these. Some of them believe they are wiser than Solomon and Daniel combined together. They believe that what they do not know does not exist, that what they do not see can never be seen by anyone, what they do not hear can never be comprehended by others. They believe they are islands unto themselves. Where can we make amends? The shoes are definitely pinching; these are hard times. Lai Mohammed, the Minister of Information and Culture said that Nigeria is broke. To me, that means a lot. It is weighty to say the nation is broke. Investors will be scared. They will be wary. I will expect Mr. President and his aides to be more accommodating, while some aides of the President should sheath their pride. I will also want to advise Mr. Presi-

dent and his political party to stop buckpassing and blaming Jonathan for all the ills of the nation. If Jonathan was doing so well in the estimation of Nigerians, he would not have been voted out and Buhari would not have been voted in. In law, there is this latin maxim – volenti non fit injuria – meaning that a volunteer should not complain. Mr. President chested out to bail Nigerians out, and that was why they voted for him. In my own humble way, that was why I led a team of very eminent and pre-eminent lawyers to defend his several pre-election cases. Any of the cases would have gone either way, but for our humble efforts. Jonathan is gone, allow history to judge him. Jonathan is off the stage and Buhari is the actor who occupies the stage now and dictates the pace. In any event Mr. President and Jonathan I would not condemn President Buhari, but I will urge him to redouble his efforts. In fact, if he was running, now he has to aim at outrunning a Usain Bolt. I will also advise Mr. President to engage competent hands who will be whispering to him expert opinions and advice. It is very important. Like when David Cameron said that Nigeria was fantastically corrupt, a parable like the receiver of stolen goods is as guilty as the one who stole the goods would have sufficed. Some aides should have whispered that to the President. Mr. President has to be more engaging. There are challenges, even right from the time of Jonathan, with the security of the nation. We now have IPOB, Niger Delta Avengers and the remnants of Boko Haram. This is a democratic dispensation and to me it is not a question of saying we are going to crush a particular group. But we have to be more engaging, develop communication and conflict management skills. Furthermore, I will advise Mr. President to put in place a Marshall Plan for Nigeria as America did for Europe after the second World War. Every sector in this country needs to be put under a state-of-emergency. Would you say that President Buhari, in this past one year has lived up to the statement, I belong to nobody, and I belong to everybody’? First, let me give this to Mr. President, that by his antecedents and public standing, he has been able to curb impunity and crass recklessness in government and governance. In respect of whether or not he belongs to nobody and he belongs to everybody, I cannot properly deconstruct that statement. But I would humbly advise that his appointments should be more representative and less lopsided. If Mr. President belongs to everybody, then he should let every section of Nigeria have a sense of belonging in his government. As a person, I have reservations in respect of Mr. President’s appointment of the present INEC Chairman from his own geo-political zone. This is against precedents and unwritten conventions relating to the appointment of our electoral umpire’s Chief Executive, starting from the time of the first Prime Minister, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa up to the time of President Jonathan. I am not saying that the present INEC Chairman is incompetent, but that Mr. President should have picked the Chairman from a different geo-political zone other than his. Again, we must commend the courage of President Jonathan for appointing Prof. Attahiru Jega, a former ASUU President from the North-West as INEC Chairman. I respect Mr. President, but these are my own tokens of advice for the survival of Nigeria and democracy. His second year in office should be a vast improvement on his first year. He should shove politics aside and forget about any imaginary differences between the PDP and APC. Nigeria is one. This is the time to rehabilitate our nation. Time is not on our side and I dare say, we have no time to play with or waste.

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The first year of change in Kaduna Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai

he APC in Kaduna State campaigned for last year’s election around the pledges in its Restoration Programme. That was our Kaduna State specific iteration of the APC National Manisfesto. We committed to make Kaduna Great Again by expanding access to quality education, improving health care outcomes, revamping agriculture, building infrastructure and attracting investments to create jobs. In the last one year, the government has intervened in these and other sectors, including enthroning peace and security in Kaduna State and reducing the cost of governance. We quickly signaled our commitment to a different style of government. The Deputy Governor and I took pay cuts, while we reduced ministries from 19 to 13. Whereas the previous government had 24 commissioners, we appointed only 13; when we sent their names to the House of Assembly for screening, we specified the portfolio for each nominee. We immediately began tackling fraud and reducing waste, so that we can free up more state revenues and use them for providing public services for ordinary people. Our payroll verification has exposed a number of ghost workers and pensioners. We have reduced the monthly wage bill from N2.7billion to N2.2billion, putting the state in better shape to cope with sliding revenues. We spelt out the practical meaning of change with our 2016 Budget, signed on 22 December 2015, which devoted more than 60 per cent of the N172billion to education, health, infrastructure and agriculture. We have laid the groundwork for the system to serve the people, rather than the entrenched elite. Our government swiftly abolished the collection of fees and levies in public primary and junior secondary schools, saving parents N3 billion every year. By so doing, we ensured that basic education became truly free, without illegal levies. Government has also prohibited the sale of forms to students seeking admission to public schools; all forms are now given free. School rehabilitation to repair classrooms, provide water and toilet facilities to 4,254 public primary schools have began. Already, more than N6million has been spent between September 2015 and January 2016 on school upgrade and provision of furniture. In addition, the Kaduna Sate government has introduced school feeding in primary Abdulfatah Ahmed

t is no longer news that the current economic downturn being experienced in the country has hampered the capacity of many state governments to meet their obligations including payment of workers’ salaries and provision of adequate infrastructures. But despite the challenges posed by paucity of funds, the Kwara State government on her part is committing enormous resources towards the rehabilitation and construction of roads and provision of other capital projects across the state as means of delivering shared prosperity to the people. Indeed, Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed has assured that his administration will continue to put in place necessary infrastructures to attract potential investors and create employment opportunities for the youth, which according to him will ensure economic growth and development. The governor, who also spoke of the current challenges arising from the dwindling allocation as it affected all states of the federation, disclosed that the state government was looking at exploiting agriculture, solid minerals and commerce as engendering platform for economic sustenance. While enumerating various government efforts at surviving the current challenges, the governor said the state had put in place a properly structured tax payment and management outfit. In line with this commitment, Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed made funds available to carry out critical infrastructures for the benefit of Kwarans. In February, the administration paid N2.4billion to contractors handling over 35 road projects spread across the state, while charging them to ensure speedy completion of the projects. Some of the ongoing road projects in the state include the Aduralere-Isalekoko-Ojagboro-Sanu Sheu road, Henry George-Agbo-Oba road, Henry George-Unilorin mini campus road, Ita-Alamu village road, Oloro palace road, Share-Oke Ode (lot 1), Share-Oke ode (lot 2), Kishi-Kaiama road, Egbejila road, Ilorin, Arobadi Magida road in Moro LG, Baboko market road, Ilesha Baruba-Gwanara road, Rore-Ipetu road, construction of three span bridge in Ilala, Ifelodun LG, Oniju street Babanloma in Ifelodun LG and Anilelerin road, Offa. The roads and other solid infrastructures being executed by the government are catalyst for socio-economic development, which will open up more opportunities for the people and positively affect their social wellbeing. He added that the state government was committed to ensuring roads

El-Rufai

schools and 1.5m pupils are fed every school day, by 17,000 catering vendors who have on the average four to five staff. Similarly, the standard of feeding in boarding secondary schools has been improved. Kaduna State now feeds each student in boarding house at a cost of N180 per day. Free uniforms have also been provided for secondary school students, sewn and fitted for each student by more than 4000 tailors. A few days after we took over, we were briefed that 50% of our school pupils were sitting on floors. The APC government has worked to reverse the embarrassing situation we inherited. Schools are now being supplied with furniture, including chairs and desks. We recruited over 2000 teachers for the core subjects of English, Mathematics, the sciences and information technology. And we have made it possible for teachers to reach Permanent Secretary (Grade Level 17), the peak of the service, without having to stop being teachers. In the health sector, the government is tackling the high

rate of infant and maternal mortality by reforming the delivery of health services in the grassroots. Rather than being fragmented across 23 local government councils, the primary health care system is now centrally managed by the Ministry of Health. This is to ensure that standards and facilities in the PHCs are fairly uniform. GE is implementing a contract, costing N1billion, to modernise and equip 255 primary health centres and 23 secondary health centres. That is one PHC per ward, and one secondary health centre in each local government area. Our health care system has won two consecutive first prizes in the nationwide Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) week. Kaduna State has also been selected to get $2 million from the Save One Million Lives programme. Five of our general hospitals have been selected for improvements of their maternity wards by MTN. All our general hospitals are now being equipped with labs that can screen even unborn children to determine their genotypes. We recently secured accreditation for Barau Dikko Hospital as a teaching hospital, and for the pre-clinical programme of the Kaduna State University. In agriculture, our government has eliminated the fertiliser racket that used the pressing needs of our farmers as cover for a fraudulent subsidy scheme. We have replaced that with a system where, without subsidy, we have used the weight of government to negotiate affordable fertiliser for our farmers. Through a price guaranty system for their output, we are encouraging our farmers to grow more grains. After a competitive bidding process, we recently selected Cremona to build three private grain silos to boost storage capacity. We are pushing resources to complete the Zaria Water project. We have paid the N3billion arrears owed to the contractors. Twelve waterworks across the state are being rehabilitated in a first phase that is costing N900million. We are lighting Kaduna roads with solar street lights, and the construction of township roads is ongoing. KADGIS is now building a computerized land registry for Kaduna State. This will allow everyone, whether an investor, farmer or housing developer, to acquire valid title, and easily ascertain the title status of land. We passed a new Tax CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

Kwara: Stimulating prosperity through infrastructure

Abdulfatah

across the state are motorable and free of potholes. With the approval of the state’s N10 billion infrastructural development bond by the Debt Management Office (DMO), the government will soon kick start major developmental projects, and the tempo of infrastructural development in the state would be accelerated. The N10billion is part of the N56 billion budgeted by the state government to finance capital expenditure in the 2016 fiscal year. Some of the projects tied to the bond include the expansion of some major roads in the state capital, construction of two new campuses for Kwara State University in IleshaBaruba and Osi in Baruten and Ekiti local government areas respectively, construction of overhead bridge at Garin Alimi,

construction of Kishi-Kaiama road, dualisation of Michael Imoudu to Ganmo road in Ilorin, and construction, equipping and fitting of new KWASU School of Business and Governance. Others are renovation and equipping of the Ilorin Stadium Indoor Sports Hall, equipping and training for the International Vocational Centre, Ajase Ipo, renovation of Oro General Hospital and four other cottage hospitals, renovation of 481 old classrooms and 318 new ones at secondary level, contribution to the construction and equipping of the Kwara Textile Industrial Park, compliance with Contributory Pension Scheme and sinking of 938 boreholes. To increase water to supply to residents of the state and alleviate their sufferings, the state government has commenced the Ilorin water reticulation project. Already, the government has committed over N5billion out of the N6.5billion proposed for water reticulation projects in the state. Similarly, as part of its vision to develop the state’s housing sector, Governor Ahmed in March flagged of the construction of a commercial complex known as The Hub in Ilorin. The landmark ultra-modern shopping and office complex, a project of the Harmony Investment and Property Development Limited (HIPD), a subsidiary of Harmony Holdings, is one of government’s efforts aimed at stimulating the Kwara economy. The Hub, when completed is expected to transform the landscape of Ilorin, create employment opportunities, stimulate commerce, facilitate and attract new investments, which will ultimately add to the economic development of the state. Here is how the governor captured the immediate benefits of The Hub to the state economy: “With 64 outlets subdivided into different dimensions of office suites, and multi-use stalls coupled with its strategic location along the dualized Fate road, The Hub, no doubt, presents great economic opportunities for Kwara State in terms of job creation, business growth and enhanced internal revenue. It will also provide trade-enabling services that will increase CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

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I’m a disgruntled octogenarian, says Adebanjo

Chief Ayo Adebanjo is an elder statesman and chieftain of Afenifere. In this interview with KUNLE OLAYENI, he examines President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration and contends that his government has not met the expectations of Nigerians

Adebanjo

President Muhammadu Buhari has clocked one year in office. What is your assessment of his administration? Well, there is not much to say for the one year period because a lot of time was spent on getting ready for the budget, getting the cabinet ready and then disputing what is in the budget and not in the budget. The one year does not really show there was a prepared plan for the government. It took them a lot and up till now, there is not really a clear line of what should be done. But one thing stands clear, which nobody can dispute, his war against corruption. The only qualification there is the fact that he made it a little bit partisan. There is a lot of deliberate act to see there is no corruption in the country but it is still there. But he shouldn’t make it appear that corruption is only in one party because with his own integrity, we expect him to do a holistic exercise to show that he is the President of all and not the President of APC alone. The President said in his inaugural speech a year ago that he belonged to everybody and he belonged to nobody. Would you say this statement has really reflected in his appointments, anti-graft war and other things? That has not been put to fact; he has not walked the talk on that statement. There is no doubt about that, except he means some other things. At the time he said it, everybody was happy that yes, this is a President that is not committed to one particular thing or the other. But his action doesn’t show. Particularly again, the word that he was going to obey the rule of law and that he’s a born again democrat. Many actions that have taken place in his regime did not prove this to be right. And in my own case, all I want to say about Buhari, I want to appeal to him, I don’t want him to take my own criticism as something coming from an opposition or somebody not in his party. I am a worried octogenarian; I don’t want this country to be like this after 56 years of independence. So, I want to appeal to him that whatever we say about inadequacies of his government is to show him that we want him to succeed and he should take action in that direction. He shouldn’t consider the messenger; he should really weigh what the message is talking about. Talk of obeying the rule of law, his attitude about not obeying what the court order says will not make those of us who fought for democracy to be happy. And then, the question of being really not partisan, he has not shown that by the type of people that are being accused of corruption now. He cannot tell us that he has angels around him.

The precept that he has set about fighting corruption is very commendable, but let’s make it holistic to show that it doesn’t matter whose ox is gored, if you take the wrong way, you have the penalty. In his cabinet there, there are people of questionable character there and like the article in the Daily Mail of London, they shouldn’t be telling us what we already know here. That is a minus for him. And issues of education, infrastructure and all promises and programmes, we have passed the election stage, this is one year after election; it should be one year of performance, not of promises. But some Nigerians believe that it is too early to assess the President’s administration…? No, that’s not what we are saying. I said what has he done so far? We didn’t say he should have completed all his programmes. I want him to say well, take the case of roads, we have tarred about five or 10 kilometres of road, we have repaired this or that. On the question of education too, this is how much we have spent to uplift the primary or secondary schools that are already dilapidated all over the country. And the universities! The question of people sending their children abroad is because there is no stability in the Nigerian university system. Right now ASUU is no strike, why? All these are things we should have enjoyed as evidence of change. The hospitals have not improved; many people now seem to go abroad for certain ailment. There are certain drugs that should be imported into the country that are not available. So, those are the things. I want him to be up and doing and really take those who are critics of his administration very seriously and examine whether they are just criticizing him for the fun of criticism or there is something to be criticized. When we criticise, we want him to make amends. He’s already our president, whether anybody likes it or not. His attitude on the Fulani herdsmen is very worrisome, particularly with his own experience in the past, with his foreknowledge of what happened when he was not even in government; you see a person like Chief Olu Falae being abducted by Fulani herdsmen, going back again to kill his security guard, not a word from our President to a person like Falae, who had been Secretary to the Government of the Federation. He should have shown concern. If the type of statement he’s now making had been made, it would show that he’s really conscious of his responsibility to our people. Thereafter, there were killings at Agatu, Enugu. Even after he has made his statement, the insurgents continued. Recently, we have to force Gov Ayo Fayose to say well, if you can’t protect

us, we’ll protect ourselves; he shouldn’t allow that situation. If he has taken the proper action, Fayose would have no reason to say that. One of the elements of government is to save lives and property. Lives and property are being destroyed in some parts of the country apparently without concern from the government. And unfortunately, the security of the country is in the President’s hands, the governors have no power. Governor Ayo Fayose has banned cattle grazing in Ekiti State. What do you think others should do to curb incessant herdsmen attacks? If they want their people to be killed, let them keep quiet. Fayose didn’t talk like that two, three months ago. Fayose didn’t talk like that before Agatu, Enugu and others. Fayose had to talk when he realised the Federal Government is not protecting the people. You can’t fault his statement. And he’s not saying that you should go and attack the cattle people. He said if they want to attack you, defend yourselves. And that shows the negligence of the Federal Government in not protecting the citizens. If proper action of protection had taken place, Fayose would have no cause to talk like that. And if he had talked like that, people would have condemned him. But in this case, he is the governor of Ekiti State; he can’t open his eyes for his people to be killed anyhow and houses demolished before he talks, expecting protection to come from where it would not come. You supported the second term ambition of former President Goodluck Jonathan. But in the last one year, we’ve been hearing revelations about sordid corrupt practices under the immediate past administration...? You press men and all those who are saying I supported him, you have not been fair to me. When I was supporting Jonathan, I made it clear why and that was on the fact that he promised to implement the recommendation of the confab (National Conference). Why? You see, both you journalists and so-called supporters of Buhari and the intellectuals, you didn’t read what the recommendations are. It goes to the root of all the problems we are having in this country. The awkwardness of the Constitution is there. And when we say the Constitution is not equitable, is not right, many of you don’t know. I give an instance which I said under the present Constitution, which I said it would be difficult for Buhari to implement because his people are the beneficiary of the present iniquity. The Constitution is a military constitution. I heard some parliamentarians talking today that, we have not had our own constitution. The military now created more local governments in the North than in the South and they made the number of local governments condition for the distribution of revenue. How can I be somebody from the Western region to be comfortable with that situation? Under the present constitution, our president is the most powerful president in the world because of the powers

contained there. He now says the complaints we are making about herdsmen, about destruction of our property, he wants to legalise it now by saying he’s going to set up a commission that will acquire a grazing area in every state. He’s looking for chaos. Principally, even under the present constitution, that is unconstitutional. The issue of land matters is the prerogative of the state governments under the Land Use Decree. He now said he’s going to acquire land compulsorily for the purpose of pursuing the trade of individuals from the North who are cattle rearers. Can I go to the North and ask him to give us land that we want to plant cocoa? And these areas you want to acquire again are the lands where people do cash crop farming. So, you want to rob Peter to pay Paul? All these are iniquities and inequalities. And when I said he would be a great statesman to be able to rectify this, this is what I mean! To implement of the recommendation of the constitution will deprive the North of its advantage over us. Take the question of local government in the present constitution, Lagos and Kano were of the same population. Now they created Jigawa out of Kano. The local governments there now are 77; Lagos remains the same 20. So, Lagos can’t take the advantage of local government allocation and you say we should keep quiet. So, all these things we are pointing out are things to make us live in unity and peace. The Niger Delta militants, the Biafra agitators, why? You see the whole case of minorities complaining; nobody wants the country to break. I don’t support Biafra agitation now, I don’t support Niger Delta breaking but we should not say we are going to pull them down. We should go to the root cause of their complaint so that we can live in peace. And those are some of the things we have resolved at the conference. The recommendations of the National Conference appear to be gathering dust almost two years after it was concluded. What can be done to ensure its implementation? It’s left for them. Their excuse is that the thing was not legally done, it was done by Jonathan. Okay, if the thing was done by Jonathan and you believe it’s good, remove what you don’t like there or add what you want so that we can have peace. Biafra and Niger Delta are products of inability to make peace. And remember when people say when you make peaceful change impossible, you make violent change inevitable. I don’t want that to exist. So, Buhari should help us to avoid violent change because this thing will not die out as long as the injustice remains. The present situation is injustice; where there is injustice, there can be no peace; where there is no peace, there can be no progress. If those shouting for Biafra and Niger Delta are comfortable in the unity of Nigeria, they won’t be violent. If you are in a club and you know the advantages you get in that club, you won’t choose to get out of the club. But by the time you felt you are being cheated there, you will CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

SUNDAY, 29 MAY, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY 29 MAY, 2016

SUNDAY, 29 MAY, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Felicitation Message

As the Nation marks its 17th Democracy Day of achievements and infrastructural development, the Honorable Commissioner, Alh. Abdulmalik Usman Cheche and staff of Niger State Ministry of Works and Transport, wish to felicitate with the Executive Governor of the State, Alhaji (Dr.) Abubakar Sani Bello for your One Year in office and your doggedness in ensuring that the State achieves the best democratic dividends for its people. We remain resolute to work assiduously as professional Engineers, Architects, and Builders towards improving the road networks and infrastructures in the State. Indeed, your support remains indelible in our life time.

Alhaji (Dr.) Abubakar Sani Bello Executive Governor, Niger State

Extension and Desiltation of Master Drainages in Minna Township Metropolis

Completed F-Layout Road Leading to Burial Ground by NIGROMA

Electrification Project at Beji, Kusherki and other Communities

Pedestrian Bridge at Kure Market Minna

Rehabilitation of Road in Chanchaga Waterworks, Minna

Construction of Brighter - Himma Schools and Mega Filling Station Road

Repairs and Rehabilitation of Western By-Pass Road, Minna

Construction of five fire service buildings across the State

Road Construction at Sarkin Bosso road, Lawu Kinkapa road and others

New Fire Service Vehicles across the state

Solar Street Light at Maiduguri Street, Stadium road and others

Long Live Federal Republic of Nigeria! Long Live Niger State!! Long Live Our Amiable Governor!!! Signed:

Hon. Abdulmalik Usman Cheche

Commissioner Ministry of Works and Transport

Arc. Umar Bawa

Perm Sec. Min of Works & Transport

Arc. Umar Bawa

Perm Sec. Min of Works & Transport

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

sermon Teaching your family kindness

sermon

Don’t give up p.33

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FAITH

Tai Anyanwu Head, religous Desk titus.anyanwu@newtelegraph © Daily Telegraph Publishing

Bishop Okpokpor: Fulani herdsmen on a mission to Islamise Nigeria Presiding Minister, Covenant Faith Ministry, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Bishop Mike Okpokpor, bares his mind on political developments in Nigeria and other issues in this interview with Pauline Onyibe. Excerpts: Your ministry came to Yenagoa on June 8, 2008; how did you achieve this progress?

Everything you see is a proof of God’s faithfulness. The Bible says he is faithful that called me. He has really shown his faithfulness that he called us and sent us here. We were enjoying the Grace of God. God used us to do things he has not done in Isoko land since Adam. But right there, when we were thinking that oh! God is now giving us a success story just then. He told us move to Yenagoa to raise for him people of greatness. It was not too palatable for someone climbing the ladder of success to obey a command to go and start from the scratch. We didn’t have any member here. We didn’t have anybody here. I visited Yenagoa only four times. It was all on invitations. I just come and go the same day. Now God said go to such a place where you don’t know anybody to start a ministry That is beginning from the scratch after one had raised a cathedral of world standard which Mama Idahosa had the honour to dedicate and describe as a ‘come and see’. We were already on radio stations, various televisions stations, various satellite stations and now God is saying go and start from the scratch. It was not funny to us on the physical but we had to obey it. And we came in here without any member and on the fifth year we dedicated this magnificent cathedral. It’s all a show of Grace. It was not the making of any human being. Right till today, I can’t explain how this place is built. How will you compare Bayelsa State back then and now?

The truth of the matter is that Bayelsa State has gone lower not higher. Because then the economy was buoyant. But right, now people can hardly feed. It is coming down but I prophecy on this land prosperity is coming back again much more than before. What do you think has gone wrong ?

I think the issue is about economic failure all over the world. Bayelsa is also having their its fair share. This economic crunch is all over the world. But there are countries that are managing their own and you don’t feel it in those countries. Has it got anything to do with the leadership?

Well, that I cannot say because every government that came tried to do their best but their best didn’t give us

the best. The present government is doing its best but its best is not giving us the best. At the national level, how do you compare the government of Goodluck Jonathan and the present leadership?

The truth of the matter is that Goodluck tried his best. I think also that Jonathan was able to meander through hard terrains because he was bringing in God; and the Bible says the government shall be upon the shoulders of Jesus. So, the God factor was giving him the favour. Hence, we were not feeling the economic crunch that was all over the world as we are feeling it now. So there lies the difference between the man who is linked up to Jesus and the one who is not linked up to Jesus. Is it possible that the antics of the Fulani herdsmen now is mere coincidence or is there more to it, as some believe that it is an Islamic agenda?

The government is insincere and untruthful concerning the issue of these herdsmen. They are only lying. They know what their agenda is. Yes, there is an agenda to Islamize this nation; but it will not work. Even if there is a Christian organisation right now that is a kind of supporting him no matter how big they are, I don’t care what ever they are. The devil can use anybody and any group. I want to advise all southern governors to begin to pass bills to stop the herdsmen from having grazing areas in their state. If they are truly Christians, they should rise up and say we are not going to allow any part of our state to be used as grazing grounds by the herdsmen. It appears that CAN and other Christian associations are not doing much to check this development?.

Yes, I will not disagree with you. I want to say that CAN is not doing enough because CAN has been highly politicized. PFN is not doing enough because may be they are afraid of something somewhere. That is why some of us are crying and wishing that the likes of Archbishop Benson Idahosa was still alive. I must say with all respect to our fathers up there that they are not doing enough. They should be able to copy from Archbishop Benson Idahosa. We need people who are ready to face the government no matter what, for the sake of the gospel; people who will come out

Okpokpor

to speak and tell the government that what it is doing is not good. I believe our prayers will help this country. No matter what they do the Bible cannot be changed. Talking about prayers, if they come to you with a gun will you run, pray or what will you do?

We are not like Moslems that are killing for their God. We are Christians. We can call on our God to fight. And he has never fought and lost. All other gods that they call upon may lose but our God never loses a battle. Let’s also keep speaking from every corner. Let’s keep speaking. From your corner as journalist, speak against this. From our angle as a world leader in the Christendom, by the grace of God, I’m the presiding bishop of College of Bishops that is having its feet in five countries, in the continents of Africa, Asia, North and South America and Europe. We call it the World Delegate Council of Bishops. From my own end, I will keep talking. From every believers end, let’s keep talking. May be your own talking shall give me the fire to talk from my own end. If we are speaking with one voice, our voice will make sense. All of us are

connected to these legislators let us speak to our legislatorsAt a time like this, you may be the Esther. God planted you at a time like this to prove your Christianity. I’m not a politician and I cannot be a politician but I can speak to politicians from my own angle. What is the secret of your youthful age?

Peace of mind because the scripture supplies it. I have peace of mind. I work very hard and it does not show because of that peace of mind that the scripture supplies which keeps me ever fresh. Even when you have challenges?

Yes. The Bible says “my peace I give to you not as the world gives”. When you stay on the word there is that peace even when there is turbulence outside but the inner is calm and that which is the inner will always prevail against the outside. The peace you keep on your inside will finally come on the outside to overcome the turbulence that is outside. What do you do for leisure?

I crack jokes with my family. I always want to be at peace with my family so that there is no trouble in the family. Once you are at peace with your family, you won’t have high blood pressure.

SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

faith

Why the devil so won’t flee?

ne day, I was confused and did not know what to do. When one is confused and depressed it is really difficult to concentrate and pray, through that period is the best time to pray. I failed my year one first semester examination. I have forgotten my cumulative grade point for it was a long time ago (1971) in University of Port Harcourt. For the first time in my life I had a very poor grade. I sat for the West African School Certificate Examination (WAEC) in 1974 and made grade I. I was posted to teach in a Secondary School where I thought Integrated Science and Mathematics in Junior Classes, and Add-Maths and Physics in Senior Classes. In year one University you do a lot of courses not related to your chosen course. Those courses I did not teach, I made very poor results. I read Physics Education. I was a very dedicated Christian and was going out for outreach programmes to Secondary Schools every Sunday. The devil mocked me for going out when my friend and other students were reading their books. If I did not improve on my results second semester, I

Word of Life Bishop. Moses Kattey moseskatteyabp@yahoo.co.uk

0808 770 7486

stood the chance of being expelled from the University. I wept but no one knew what I was passing through. I laid on my bed praying, crying and thinking. Suddenly, a thought came into me. I stood up and said “Devil, you are wasting your time. From today, I will never read on Sundays again, and watch and see me pass all my exams up to Ph.D level. Devil I challenge you, you cannot intimidate me in Jesus Name. Amen”. That ended depression session after many days. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7) I resisted the devil, so why won’t he flee? Truly, until I graduated in B.Sc Education Physics, M.Ed (Curriculum Science) and Ph.D. I did not read from Saturday 12 mid night to Sunday 12 mid night. Sometimes I had 2 papers to write on the Monday, I ensured I read well before Sunday and by God’s grace, I passed all my exams, in the 3 Universities I attended – Port Harcourt,

Jos and Calabar. The Lord helped me to take certain decisions that enabled me to excel academically. The first was I decided to translate everything I read into my language. This made me to read very slowly unlike before, I would cover my note books 3 or 4 times before the examination but I discovered I was reading like Newspaper. I realized I did not actually understand what I was reading. After reading, I interpreted what I read into my native language, and put then out it down on papers in English. I read slowly, and could not cover my notebook but I excelled if the lecturer “mistakenly” brought what I read in the examinations or tests. The next thing that helped me was the second decision I took and I hope students will read this article. In my first year, first semester I was wasting my time in the library. After every lecture I would go to the library to search for textbooks on the topic. I did not realize

that the lecturer had collated all the facts and put down in his lecture notes, hand out or his textbook. I made up my mind to read my lecture note, except I was given assignment that required going to the library. Knowing that I had only 6 days to read while others had 7 days, I spent my time to do 7 days work in 6 days to ensure I left Sunday for God, for mediation and for evangelism. “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1). I had enough time for my Maker, and I had enough time for my academics. Today, I am a fulfilled man. The decision I took many years ago took me to where I am. The ones I take now will take me to where I will be in the near and far future. I challenge the devil, so why should he not flee from me? To students and teachers let the students go to through last 3 past questions in any given subject or course. They will have enough to make them pass whatever examination they wish to write. A lady went to University to read law. She graduated but attempted law school about 4 times without passing a single paper.

Teaching your family kindness

was touched by the tradition a Christian family started every Christmas. These Christian parents had taught their children about kindness but decided to take it a step further. So every Christmas they will bundle up some gifts, cook some food and have their children donate some used toys and together, they will go round hospitals distributing these things to children who had to spend their Christmas in hospital. These Christian parents realized that the more they did it, not only did their children start showing kindness to those around them, their children also reduced complaints about new toys, clothes and shoes; they became more grateful for what God had blessed them with. That is what kindness does. It takes your attention off your needs and what you lack and instead makes you grateful for what you do not have by turning your attention to the needs and wants of others around you. Kindness cannot be overemphasized because it makes you less selfish and more focused on manifesting the fruit of love in you. A person with a kind heart

Marriage & Family Intimacy

Bishop Charles Ighele holyspiritmissioninc@yahoo.com

07066579379/09098845521 does not concentrate on how he/she will amass things to himself/herself but rather on how what is available will go round so that everyone will be a partaker and be happy. It clearly states that having this kindness tendency working in the lives of everyone in your home and family will help the nation and the world at large. It will eliminate corrupt tendencies and cause the people to be more concerned with what is happening to those under; those who are at the grassroots and or the down trodden. I want to suggest that parents think of practical ways to teach their children kindness. They may be blessed and comfortable but there are others who do not have as much as your children do. Now is the time to teach your children how to look on them with compassion and love. Remember kindness is learnt and by exposing your children to situations where

they have to demonstrate kindness, you are teaching them about kindness. And as they learn how to be kind, they will also learn how not to be kind because they will be made to know those things that will make a person not to be kind to the other person. Some people do not know that they are not kind until it is pointed out to them. Look for ways your family can show kindness to others without expecting any reward. Whatever you do for someone in the name of being kind and expect something in return, such is not kindness at all. Kindness is nothing too difficult to do neither is it something far-fetched. It may be as costless as cleaning up your neighbourhood with your children in tow on a weekend; it may involve giving a gift to a child hawking by the roadside; it may be helping that yourneighbour to look after her baby while she is away to work or

going on some errands for her home. The act of kindness is virtually visible and can be spotted from afar. Not everyone who attends church has the fruit of kindness. It is a great virtue to be desired by all. Kindness is portrayed in action and in words. Some people speak harshly and do not show kindness with their words. You can actually show kindness with what comes out of your mouth in the form of words. Kind words released here and there can make somebody’s day beautiful, Colossians 4:6. Never teach your children to look down on any needy children or look at them as dirty. Nobody desires to be in a state whereby he/she will be tagged the needy. Life presents itself differently to different people. So if you are fortunate to find yourself on the other side of the fence of life which is greener, be of great help by showing kindness to those who are not as fortunate as you are. Encourage your family members to show these children God’s love and kindness. Let your family be an instrument to show God’s kindness to others in this harsh world we live in.

Mystery of Anxiety Bishop John Ogbansiegbe 0803 341 6327 (SMS Only)

Nature of fear

ear is the natural response to perceived threat to ones security or general welfare. When the intensity of anxiety gets to it’s apogee the consequential result is fear. This emotional state of mind may be positive in implication especially when it produces caution. This is why we believe that fear is a natural preservative instinct. To this end therefore, man often those things he fears. On the other hand fear can constitute encumbrance to advancement or enjoyment of oneself. The concept of fear is referred to in the Bible several hundred times directly or indirectly through such effects as “trembling shaking, shuddering or cringing”. From the annals of scriptural history, God has always encouraged his people in times of great encounters or oppositions by opening up with the word ‘Fear not;’ it may therefore be said that the believer is one who fears nothing but God. In this line of thought therefore, the fear of God can be obedience to the word of God, and submission to the will of God, worshiping and honouring God. When God is the object of fear, there can be a great terror especially for those enemies of God and enemies of righteousness. But this type of terror is limited by the fact that God is not capricious, but acts consistently according to His righteous character and revealed will. Notwithstanding this fact, those, especially guilty of idolatry, wickedness, injustice and other forms of every, have every reason to fear the coming wrath of Almighty God; the day of his righteous indignation; being on the great white throne judgment. Terror is indeed the only reasonable response when confronted by the awesome presence of a being whose knowledge and power have no limits. For instance, during resurrection, the angelic appearance triggered off a great fear on the Roman soldiers guarding the tomb, to the point that they fainted, collapsed and slumped on the ground for hours. But when the holy women got to the tomb, same angles said to them “Fear NOT.” The Bible does not

portray fear of danger as an emotion over which the believer has to control. But the divine injunction “fear not” is a command not to panic or be immobilized by fear or allow fear to hinder you from obeying God. The antidote to the fear of danger is the conviction that God is able to protect and accomplish his will and that his promises are yea and amen. Fear is something dreaded something that makes one emotionally uneasy. But from scriptural point of view, fear is a spirit: this was why the Bible declares: “God has not give us the spirit of fear; but of power, love, and of sound mind -11Timothy 2:1-7. Just as the Holy Spirit empowers, anoints, strengthens and energises the believer, fear weakens and obstructs and paralises it’s victims. Fear prevents its victims from experiencing and living the God intended life for them. It limits their potentials. Fear not can hinder you from enjoying rich relationship with people and with God and can also hinder you from enjoying meaningful life. Fear can fill your memories with your past failures or mistakes, many have been tied to their past, many have been pushed into sin because of fear, and have also been prevented from embracing their God ordained future. This is why God continues to repeat and emphasise the phrase ‘fear not.’ Through our Lord Jesus Christ, you have been set free from such destructive fear that holds you hostage. To this end, the word of God declares: “For if the son shall set you free you shall be free indeed” –John8:36. By nature, there is the feeling of the fear of shame, fear of defeat or scandal which includes stage fright, fear of danger and death simply but Psalm 91 from versen5-7 gives us extensive insight into the nature and dimensions of fear and thus states: “Thou shall not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrows that flieth by day, nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness nor the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall by the side and ten thousand by thy right hand but it shall not come nigh thee.”

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

faith

Insight

Rev. Femi Akinola www.thehebrewsng.com

01-790 3163; 0808 584 5864

Don’t give up

any start things in life, get to a level and then stop; this is not God’s intention for anyone. The joy of starting is in the finishing. Trophies are not given to people because they started something. There are many potentially great people who would have made history, but the world never heard of them because they did not pull through till the end. There are three personalities in the scripture above; God, the prophet and you. The word of God is coming to you today like it came to Zerubbabel in his days, that which your hands have started, your hands will finish, someone else will not reap what you have sown in Jesus name. Everyone has an assignment to fulfil on earth. Once you have discovered it, be it in business, ministry or politics, you must ensure you see it through to the end not giving in to challenges that may arise. Stay at it, grow in it and reap from it. Opposition has but one goal; to make you bow out, surrender to pressure and then end in shame. So, to be ahead of and make the best of opposition; expect it, master it and conquer it. The same challenges that make others give up are the same which others use as stepping stones. Challenges come to all, but only the strong make the best use of them. Often times, challenges are opportunities for greatness, but many miss out on this because they see from the outside in rather than from the inside out. So many people are good at starting, they do all the work, sow all the seeds, and then throw in the towel in times of challenges saying ‘it is not working’ and they sell it off to someone who will come and reap the harvest of all they’ve laboured for. That shall not be your experience in Jesus name. Any genuine vision you receive from God will go through 4 stages; the birth/delivery of the Vision, the foundation of that Vision, the death of that Vision and eventually the rebirth/resurrection or harvest of the vision. The fact that a vision is from God does not mean it will not go through challenges. Whatever and wherever you go about your Godgiven pursuit, be mindful

of the following: 1. Focus on God’s word/ promises and not on the problems. By every prophecy is opposition; anytime you’re passing through turbulence, remember that He won’t leave you alone. 2. Counter the devil’s attack on your conscience. When the devil suggests bad thoughts to you, you must resist him with all your heart. Don’t allow the devil condemn you, and don’t condemn yourself. 3. Have a positive attitude towards yourself and your business. You can do all things through Christ, therefore never accept defeat. 4. Remember God is in control. Always bear in mind that the devil did not create anything; he has not made any day, hence, you can be sure that you will overcome your evil days. 5. Look for a corresponding seed(Psalm 126:4). There are points in life where you must sacrifice, where you must settle. There are things that prayer alone will not answer to. 6. Let your business tithe. Your business, ministry, family and children must tithe. 7. Locate a father. Life is too delicate for you to be guessing with. There are things you can’t do for yourself, but your spiritual father will stand in the gap for you. Too many people are stranded in life because they lack intercessor in the person of a spiritual father. He has been where you have not, seen what you have not and touched in the spirit things you have not touched. It is not your place to choose your spiritual father, rather, God it is who would direct you to your priest based on His assignment for you in life, business and ministry. Connecting with your spiritual father can help smoothen your journey through life and destiny. •

PRAYER POINTS My business shall not die but flourish…

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My Father, gather me from every side and make me complete again…

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In life and business, I shall not be stranded…

• Anything my hands touch from now on shall prosper…

The General Overseer of Shammah Divine Chapel of Christ International, Prophet Samuel Ikwuemeka, recounts his experiences and journey into ministry in this interview. Excerpts How did your journey into the ministry begin? I was called a prophet when my mother conceived me and I was told that. As I was growing up, I went doing a business which I was warned not to do except God’s work. I was almost dead but God rescued me through his mercy, then I realized that God was warning me to come back and follow him, I came back home with nothing. That was how the ministry started. I worked under pastors serving and also building their ministry before I received a divine call to start my own ministry. Could you tell us about your major church programme? Yes, we did a powerful crusade last year June, tagged “Come Holy Spirit Come.” It was a power packed programme; and lots of testimonies were recorded. People are still testifying of the programme till now. During the pro-

I have no regrets answering the call of God – Ikwuemeka

Ikwuemeka

gramme, God healed a lady called Obiageli who was suffering from chronic disease for more than 2 years. Nobody would like to come near her because she emitted unpleasant odor as a result of the sickness. She visited many places for cure but all to no avail. They were planning to take her to India for treatments but somehow her relations were introduced to our healing ministry. After prayer was conducted, the sickness disappeared. Two pregnant women, who were penned down for operation, came to me, after prayers, they delivered normally without stress. We record countless of testimonies even on regular basis. Early this year, God told me to conduct one week crusade

before the middle of this year, because He is going to do a lot of miracles. We just rounded up the powerful crusade with theme: DEVIL MUST HAND OVER. There was healing, Deliverance, signs and wonders. A woman who could not see with one of her eye, God restore back her sight through the crusade; God healed different sicknesses and more testimonies are still coming. Any challenges in the cause of the ministry? Challenges comes eve beyond my expectation but God always gives me victory. When people around me tend to discourage me, I encouraged myself in the Lord. Challenges come in different ways and categories, my daughter had an accident but God immediately rescue her. In all, my ministry still moves on. Do you have any regret about life? Sometimes it is natural for one to regret but for me, I don’t have any regret about the calling of God upon my life. His calling is a good invitation upon my life. I am serving him with all my

heart, with all my strength, with all my power. I don’t have anything to regret about my life as long as Jesus Christ is there, as the aka of the church is “The Lord liveth”, as he lives we will also make it by the Grace of God. Before the last election was held, some pastors predict that Good luck Jonathan was going to be re-elected. Should we say they did not hear clearly From God? Well, we should believe that whatsoever happens is the will of God. The bible says who is he that will speak and it came to pass when God has not spoken. Some people sometimes doesn’t understand the plans of God. Life is not only full of enjoyment, life is full of stages, you meet this stage today, the next day you meet another stage, so, what happen to the last election. Whether Good luck or Buhari the government going on right now is the will of God because if it is not the will of God Buhari will not be there. What we should do is to assist him in prayers, let the will of God be done.

Healthy habits of a young church

Habit is an action or pattern of behavior repeated so often that it becomes typical of somebody, although he or she may be unaware of it. It also connotes an addiction, a person’s consistent attitude or general disposition. Unfortunately, most churches do not sustain the positive pattern of behavior they begin with. They soon lose steam for several obvious reasons, human frailty being the chief. Yet as people who have been born anew, born of the spirit, we ought to have developed such a godlike nature that we would not fall for this earthy flaw. We should maintain, even return to, the first-love pattern with which we began as a church. When a church speeds up its growth and plateaus out, the next stage is that of decline, which, if not quickly arrested, results in church death. In our brief missions experience, we have seen churches die practically. The building is closed to traffic, the members disperse, some back to the world, some to hell! These under-listed habits are the healthy ones that can help a church move up the ladder of growth, sustain its bliss on the plateau, and never decline. 1. Evangelism and

Discipling Corner

ening of that ladder. See John 14:13-14. Understand this: the Church too needs prayer for its survival. With Rev. Frank Nwosu The church is an endanfacebook.com/frankfredsNwosu gered species, considering wwwlinkedin.com/frankfreds the many forces trying to 08060746787,08099407497 pull it down and scatter it. The government is baptism fighting the church, the fraudulent, it is certainly Failing to evangelize and neighbours are attacking silly. Converting without be zealous in church work her, and false brethren baptizing new entrants means we are dead or who secretly infiltrated to the faith is like univerdying. In the Revelation of the church are working to sity admission without Jesus to John in Rev 3:1-6, matriculation. So what ma- ruin its fragile reputation. He pointed out one of the triculation number will the A young and growing first century churches as church will emphasize student use during exams gradually declining. Or, or graduation certification? more corporate prayer you may even say, decayfor its corporate survival A young church, willing ing, dying. When we start rather than serving as a to grow, must evangelize, enthusiastically and later cartel for businessmen convert, baptize and keep begin to lose steam, it is a a record of real members of looking for spiritual backclear sign of decay. When the church, not fluctuating up for their commercial we stop being zestful about visitors who attend during rivalries. Any church that our Christian commitment, overlooks this growth ceremonies. and start to do programmes ingredient will soon find 2.Prayer: corporate and ‘business as usual’, it is an itself over-grown by its intercessory prayers (Acts index of the current rating members, and they won’t 4:31) of the church. Then, the hesitate to go to other Don’t you see how trite church is sliding down the ‘happening’ churches it seems to remind us that steep plateau into decline, when they see they have prayer should be a livand ultimate death, if not ‘over-grown’ the church. ing habit of a young and promptly checked. EvanAs the stunted church growing church? It looks gelism AND BAPTISM produces selfish spiritual obvious, but see the kind are twin habits a growing giants, they will depart of prayer that is common church must sustain like without apology, with no in church today – private, food for a growing boy. qualms of conscience, forpersonal petitioning for Sometimes, we hurriedly getting how they used the the meeting of personal do hit-and-run evangelism church’s prayer-scaffolds needs, a despicable selfish and fail to document the to climb up. The church disposition that uses the outcome of the effort. It will church’s prayer machinery should not be treated like be like a corporate body as a ladder for professional a millipede whose myriad that advertises vacannewborns must destroy promotion, business succies and fails to interview cess, even personal spiritual her body to come out as and employ. If that is not growth, without a strength- born!

SUNDAY, 29 MAY 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

politics National Chairman, Labour Party, Alhaji Abdulkadir Abdulsalam, in this interview with JOHNCHUKS ONUANYIM, assesses the performance of President Muhammadu Buhari and his ruling party, the All Progressives Congress in the last one year The APC government is one year in office. What is your assessment of the party and President Muhammadu Buhari administration? The one year spent by President Muhammadu Buhari and APC is disastrous. It is a failed year in every sphere of our life - economy, security, empowerment of youth, in health, education, all spheres. The one year is a total failure and the promises which they made to Nigerians, they have not been able to fulfill any. They assured Nigerians of change, but we are in chains and we are in bondage. As such, the situation we found ourselves is unexpected, and is disastrous because any political party or any politician who promises change and eventually, it is not so, then you cannot take them to be serious. Our economy has nosedived into a dangerous level, our security, though seemingly we are able to manage the Boko Haram thing issue: abduction, armed robbery, herdsmen, issue have endangered our security, peace of our day-to-day relationship. Today, as Nigerians, we are not as united as we used to be. The division amongst us is far more than what unites us. As such, our children have not seen hope in the future. As such, there is no change. Some people have said that the Federal Government has really achieved much in the area of war on corruption, in the area of security and some other areas. What is your sincere opinion? Ok, in the area of corruption, who has been jailed in the past one year? It is the normal practice, normal procedure, normal arrangement; arrest them, charge them to court grant them bail and that is all. And this fight against corruption seems to be the only one agenda of this administration. They have arrested many people, and the courts have granted them bail, but Buhari’s administration has not adhered to the law of the land, because, a responsible government should adhere to the rule of law and release these people on bail and follow up on the cases. How many people have been jailed for corruption? All we have been hearing is the usual allegation. They told us they have recovered some amount of monies looted, we have not seen the amount, where is the money? If they said they have recovered over $1billion and at the same time, we are going for a loan of $2.1 billion, what is the rationale? So, you begin to wonder what have they recovered, who are the looters, all these things need to be made clear to Nigerians. With regard to security, the security has not changed; things are getting worse every day. The Niger-Delta has added another dimension to our economy, to our national security. The Biafran groups have added to it and its seems the government has no solution. No answer to these things, instead of Buhari to invite these people, dialogue with them. When the late President Umar Yar’ Adua dialogued with Niger-Delta boys, the militants, he was not a fool, he knew it was necessary and inevitable. He dialogued with them, he related with them and the consequence was positive. So, Buhari as a

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Buhari’s govt is not tolerant of opposition –Abdulsalam a government that understands the yearning, hopes and aspirations of the people. The fact of it is that the government has been in opposition and suddenly found itself in power. So they did not know how to use it because they did not know the source of power, they would not know how to use power and that is what we are facing now. People are been detained without been charged to court. People are been harassed, intimidated because they are in opposition. But despite that, some of us who would talk, have been talking and we would continue to talk. Now, they have silenced the Labour, NLC and others. That is sign of dictatorship, sign of hard handling of the people. So the situation is a terrible one. With all these what is the political parties, or what is your party doing to stop APC from coming back in 2019? No, we are watching them first; we are talking; we are not keeping quiet and we’ve been talking and watching. Very soon we will come out with our strategy. It is not only the Labour Party, last time I addressed the press we were 19 political parties. So, subsequently we will get more parties, we will come together and we will take definitive position to wrestle power from these leaders.

Abdulsalam

former military dictator does not see any reason why he should dialogue with the Niger-Delta militants or why he should dialogue with the Biafran boys? Before things get out of hands, he should dialogue with them he should relate with them, he should ask them for their demands and find solutions to them.

C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 7

say what is the use of this club, let me get out. What the Biafrans are saying is that well, we come together to take some advantage, what advantage am I taking, I’m being cheated. The Niger Delta people are complaining that their resources are being taken to develop others; I had better get out. And we are saying give them some percentage, then we can live in peace. Because if you say you are going to pull down the foot soldiers, you’ll be forcing unity without peace. The economy appears to be going into recession now and a lot of people are worried whether the President even has the capacity to bring Nigeria out of the woods… They know me as a critic of Buhari and what I want to emphasise to them at this time is that I’m a very dissatisfied and disgruntled octogenarian. I was 88 last April. I don’t want this country to continue like this. This question of agitation is not in our interest. I want Buhari to change and change this country for good. But the cabinet he has can’t do it. You know when they came together, I accused the APC of being conglomeration of incompatibles. What have they done to prove me wrong? Even ordinary appointing leaders of the Senate, they couldn’t do it. And you see, the action coming from the government is very worrisome. Imagine at this stage, the government’s spokesmen are trying to say the herdsmen are not Fulanis. Are we just living in Nigeria? They are around my village here, we see them every day. We know them to be carrying sticks before, now they are carrying guns. And you say we have policemen, soldiers and security people? We see the herdsmen carrying AK-47; that should be enough for the government to be up and doing and act in a way that this is a government for us all.

Many people are worried that despite all these things, the political parties, the civil society and other pressure groups are keeping quite. No, as political parties we are not keeping quiet. I will give you an example, when I say Nigeria is under siege, you didn’t come. So we have been talking, the government is not a government that listens to people; it is not

With the present performance, what would you advise the President to do as regards this cabinet? Well, I think the cabinet is the best APC can produce. So, you cannot advise them on what to do or what not to do; that is the best they can produce, that is their own very best. That is their first 11, so leave them with their problem.

Buhari is forcing unity without peace, says Adebanjo Some of the officials of the present government have come out to say most of the problems in the country were caused by the former administration of the PDP. What is your take on this? That is a lazy argument and we have had enough of that. That is for the election; we need action now! But can they really actualise their plan in just one year when the former ruling party was in power for 16 years? No, I’m not accusing them that they should do everything in one year. I said what have they done now; if they should do 10, have they done one or two? You should point out to me that after all, save the question of anti-corruption which I scored him about 20 percent, what else has he done? I’m in support of what he did on that but wiping out of corruption does not put food on the table of the people. And that was why I said before the election even when I said they are not organised is that ‘just let Jonathan go.’ When I asked the question, after the departure of Jonathan, who will replace him? They said just let him go. They should have had a plan; it is because the people believed that you could better the Jonathan administration, that’s why they voted for you. And I’m agreed to that. I may not like your being elected, but you have been elected; that’s the voice of the people. Now perform! The situation now is not to give excuses. The situation is performance. When Obama came into office in America, he was not complaining about the Bush administration. They should not

talk to us as if we are illiterates in this country. You said Buhari’s anti-corruption war is partisan. What do you think can be done to correct it? If I say the thing is partisan, they know what to do. When we say it is only one-side you are doing, you don’t know which other side? People have been mentioning some prominent members of his cabinet; please don’t ask me what can be done. He should send his people after all these people as he had sent them after the people in PDP. If he says he can’t do everything, okay there are 20 of them, take five here, take five there. Then, we know you are being fair. But would you acknowledge the fact that the President has ensured stability, especially fighting insurgency in the North-East? On that he has done a lot. The complaints people are making in the country; why should people be complaining when he has improved security in the North East? Why should people be complaining when corruption has been wiped out? Almost all the states of the federation can’t pay the salaries of workers and his party is in power in majority of these states. He should look into that. The roads are bad, light is not regular; the increase in petrol you want to justify, what is left for the common man? Do you know the implication of that? Well, if that is necessary, government has to find palliatives. What palliatives has he put in place? Those are the things we are asking for. If it had been a Northerner that was abducted like Falae, would he have kept quiet?

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, 29 MAY, 2016 first an n

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politics

A’Ibom‘ll soon become industrial hub, says SSG The Secretary to the Government of Akwa Ibom State, Elder Etekamba Umoren, says Governor Udom Emmanuel is at the fringe of industrilising the state in this interview with TONY ANICHEBE

Can you assess the person of Governor Emmanuel whose government you are currently serving? Governor Udom Emmanuel, from my own personal observation, is an honest, intelligent and brilliant young man; we could not have had a better governor at this time than him. He is a good economist and presently, we are faced with bad economy and only a good economist can tackle the menace of poor economy like ours presently. So don’t be surprised when you see things still moving in Akwa Ibom State despite the poor economy. He understands what it means to manage the state at this time, he understands not just how to manage funds but how to create wealth. He is moving the state forward against all odds that is why we believe that his ascension to the throne of governance is timely. Sifficult situations like we have presently needs well trained economists. He has tremendously improved on the infrastructures across the state; lots of industries are presently coming up in different parts of the state for example peacock paints which was moribund for years is now in the market. He is more into industrialisation and desirous of creating employment for our people and generate wealth for the state, which is our top priority presently. So, don’t be surprised that notwithstanding the difficulties being experienced across the country, Akwa Ibom State is moving forward and the reason is that we have Governor Udom Emmanuel. This is a man who works in tandem with God and you observe that before any action is being taken by the governor, he takes it to God. He strongly believes that one with God is the majority. Of course, the economy is in bad shape presently but Governor Udom Emmanuel do tell Akwa Ibom citizens at every forum that his administration will completely industrialised the state. Do you see this materialise before the end of his first tenure? The immediate past administration laid a solid foundation for infrastructural development and the governor is improving on it. Now, he is providing very conducive atmosphere for the full take off of these industries. Government major role here is to provide facilities, enabling and conducive environment and equally ensures that the genuine investors, upon arrival are provided with their certificate of occupancy within six months. So most of the investors we have are coming in with the funds and equipments because the atmosphere is very conducive now for them to make good returns on their investments. So don’t be surprised about what you will see before the end of the governor’s first

term in office. The governor has been commissioning projects in the last one week, could he had done much better if the resources were better than we have presently? I will say yes, he would have done much better, I am particularly happy that the information drive the road leading to NUJ, among many other media establishments is among the many roads commissioned within the week. So journalists can now access the secretariat with ease. By this you people equally testify that government is working. We know the difficulties you journalists pass thorough while trying to access your secretariat; that is why the governor intervened there. The governor is equally interested in touching every sector of the state, for instance you observe too that to ease the difficulties for people moving round the state, government have equally intervened on federal roads and we hope to get refunds on monies spent on these roads to plough back to other demanding needs. What is the fate of some of the projects inherited by this administration, like the Ibom Tropicana and Ibom Deep Sea Port, which if completed will boost employment for the teaming unemployed youths in the state? This administration is out to post superior performance and will never encourage any abandoned project. These projects, no doubt, are of immense importance to the state. Already, state funds have been committee to them. The government had already inaugurated committee that will tidy up the remaining loose ends towards the realisation of the Ibom Deep Sea port while the Tropicana is in the budget and work will soon resume for its completion. These projects will be very beneficial to the state, thus Akwa Ibom people should ignore the rumours making round that those projects have been abandoned. Ibom Deep Sea Port has gone far in execution; building a seaport is not like building private or commercial office complex. The process is entirely different; you will have to carry out hydrographic survey to know the depth of the ocean water. Apart from that you also know that there is what we call the breakers. The seaport cannot just face the ocean; there must be a way to break the waters so that before the vessel is finally getting to the harbor, it is slowed down. So building a deep seaport is not an overnight project. Armed with the approval of the Federal Government on that project, nothing will stop its realisation. Gov. Udom Emmanuel is determined not just to ensure the Ibom Deep Seaport comes on board but all other projects inherited from the past administration.

Umoren

Records show that Akwa Ibom State has sunk billions of naira into federal roads. Has the Federal Government refunded the money? Those projects were done by the past administration and you know before then, there were no roads in the state whether rural, state or federal roads. Of course what we referred to as federal roads then are nothing but death traps. You cannot afford to bring investors and while they struggle to access the state, you tell them not to worry that the roads are federal roads. They will tell you to wait that they will return when Federal Government repaires them. If I may ask, how many Federal Government officials ply these roads? The truth is that the former governor knew that these roads are mainly used by Akwa Ibom people and expanded the roads. Of course the roads were done after approvals were sought and obtained from the Federal Government. So the state government after construction of the roads submitted documents seeking refunds and the present administration is doing everything possible to get back the funds. If the Federal Government fails to refund, it will discourage others seeking to carry out such interventions from going ahead. I am certain that these monies will be refunded so that the state can channel them into other areas of need, especially projects.

At the pace the state is going, where do you see the state in the next eight years if Governor Emmanuel gets a second term? I can remember that at the thanksgiving service of the governor after his victory at the Supreme Court where I had the privilege of giving a vote of thanks to the people on behalf of government, I reminded our immediate past governor, who is now Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio, that while serving as his Chief of Staff, I was there when a journalist asked him what he would like to be remembered for and he answered that he would like to be remembered as the governor who produced the best governor. I told the crowd that with what Governor Emmanuel has done so far that Senator Akpabio indeed saw tomorrow. He had a prophecy and it will come to pass. In summary what he said is that Akwa Ibom will be far developed than any state in the country and will only be compared with trending cities in the world like Dubai. The state will be the industrial hub of Africa and our governor, Deacon Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, is poised, from his actions in the last one year, to take Akwa Ibom to the next level. Again, I must tell you that the new Akwa Ibom dream must be achieved because the governor we have today is in total covenant with God to move the state forward.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY 29 MAY 2016 first an n

The gains and pains of Buhari’s change C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 3

which started in 2012 have not been dealt with by the present administration. There is, however, hope that government going forward would strengthen efforts on this issue. Anti-corruption Corruption today has grown at an alarming pace and continues to threaten global growth, stability and indeed the world’s future not only Nigeria. Analysts believe too that obviously, corruption is not a new problem faced by countries. Interestingly, in addressing this menace, the current administration within its one year has faced stiff opposition especially the modus operandi employed, perceived to be selective by the opposition. During the 2015 electioneering campaigns, it was one common identity of the party and its candidate establishing that Nigeria’s most intractable problem was corruption. For the APC it was something that would immediately be dealt with head-long, if voted into office. In fact, many of those who opposed Buhari were ignored because they were seen by the public as corrupt officials who feared the likelihood of the exposure of their corrupt practices. President Buhari has since kicked off with this anti-corruption war which some section of Nigerians believed is yet lopsided, selective and only targeted at members of the opposition party. Bishop Timothy Yahaya of the Kaduna Arch Diocese of Anglican Communion in April this year joined the likes of Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State who have repeatedly criticized the President in the regard. On his part however, President Buhari insists that if the country does not kill corruption, corruption will one day kill Nigeria. There are indications that the Federal Government is making some progress in the anti-corruption war since it commenced the arrest of some prominent Nigerians including the former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki. Billions of naira according to government officials have already been returned to the national treasury and may soon be deployed for infrastructural development. The President appears confident that most of the looted funds would be recovered having secured the assurances of several developed countries like America and France. The message from the actions of President Buhari’s government in the last one year about corruption only shows that despite all the criticisms that have trailed its modus operandi, never again in the history of the country would there be mindless looting in government as was witnessed in the near past. The wide assessment is that if fully achieved, anyone in government henceforth has to think twice before dipping their fingers into the government’s coffer. Economy On the economic front, Nigerians are yet to witness any major breakthrough. This may be largely to the long delay in the signing of the 2016 budget. However, in the view of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, President Buhari may not do well in getting the economy on the right path because he is not sound in economic affairs. Unfortunately too, recent records from the National Bureau of Statistics indicate that the country’s economy is not doing well. The fear is that, if the situation does not improve, Nigeria’s economy may dive into a recession. The thinking of the present administration is far from these thoughts. Government officials have explained that in the last one year, the Buhari administration has mapped out a number of strategic policies which it believe

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would strengthen the economy as indicated in the 2016 budget that remains very ambitious with an estimate of N6.06trillion. Some deliberate steps which the government said would further be taken include the expansion of agriculture sector to generate more employment opportunities and promote exports. This is aside implementation of several projects in power, roads, education and the transportation sectors. Those sympathetic to the current administration have also given it some accolades for the implementing the Treasury Single Account (TSA) which has assisted in plugging identified leakages. Although not an original idea of the Buhari administration, it has served as a cornerstone saving government close to N3 trillion have been saved already and that is huge. Another economic policy in line with this is the enforcement of the Bank Verification Number which has helped reduced the menace of “ghost workers”. Government says this has resulted in huge savings. Presently, one major challenge which the administration has not been able to solve within the period of 356 days is the issue of petrol availability which has rather resulted to increase in the pump price of the product. According Vice President Osinbajo, scarcity of forex and not subsidy removal compelled the federal government to move the price of petrol from N86.5 to N145 per litre. A number of groups including organised labour have kicked against this decision and are calling for increase in the salary of workers across the country. For the governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, this is one pain that Nigerians must experience before reaping the gains of a good government. But generally, the economy has nose-dived as inflation rose to 13.7 per cent and massive job loss permeate the whole nation, with Chevron and Shell cutting over 25,000 jobs. Many banks, construction and manufacturing companies have also follow suit. Power Electricity situation unfortunately has not improved one year after the current administration took over power. The inability of government to stabilise electricity in the country has however been blamed on the increased activities of militants in the Niger Delta region who continue to blow up pipelines. Power supply had in February peaked to 5000mw when Buhari took over for the first time, but have since plummeted. Official records indicate that with present government agreeing to a 50 million Euro (about (N11.15 billion) loan from the French government for capacity-building and upgrade of power training facilities, and the signing a $237 million agreement with World Bank to improve power, the sad story in the sector may soon improve. The Federal Government says it is also discussing an initiatives to bring solar power price down to five US cents per kilowatt hour, (approximately N10) as against the price of 17 US cents (N34) per KW/h tariff in Nigeria fixed at privatisation by the last government with a solar deployment agreement soon to be signed.. The Buhari’s government no doubt is working hard to diversify the nation’s economy and return the country away from oil dependency, into agriculture. So many figures are being bandied about what the change portends, savings from imports, the export of surplus and the jobs that will be created. Because Nigerians have however heard such promises now seen as rhetoric before, it is pertinent therefore that the administration strives to make a difference with the three years it has left, if it must be taken any seriously by the electorate.

politics

The first year of change in Kaduna C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 6

Codification and Consolidation Law which established a new internal revenue service, and lists all taxes and levies payable in our state in one document. This eliminates multiple taxation and provides the certainty that investors need. We have doing more to increase the ease of doing business in Kaduna. Through our maiden Kaduna State Economic and Investment Summit (KADINVEST), we demonstrated that we are open for business. Though the government has created 85, 000 jobs from school feeding alone, we are relying on the private sector to create the millions of jobs that our majority young population need. Olam has broken the ground for the poultry project, the largest in sub-Saharan Africa, that it is siting in our state. Our mass housing programme to provide 20,000 homes has kicked off with the first set of 2000 homes now under construction. Through the Kaduna Start-up Entrepre-

neurship Programme (KADSTEP), we are equipping young people in Kaduna with the skills they need to develop business plans, secure funding and run enterprises. The first batch of 279 KADSTEP trainees has graduated, with 15 of them securing N45m in funding from the Bank of Industry. The second batch of 500 is now being trained. As our reforms continue, we plan to inject young people into the public service, to renew and strengthen the machinery of government. We are providing material and financial support to the security agencies. We have donated 107 vehicles, 51 motorcycles and bullet proof vests to the security agencies. We have also collaborated with neighbouring states to finance operations to rout the cattle rustlers and other criminal elements that were menacing the Birnin-Gwari axis and the nearby forests. Upholding peace and security is vital to our governance agenda. Through the Agwai Committee.

Kwara: Stimulating prosperity C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 6

Kwara State’s competitive advantage.” Additionally, the presence of The Hub will also address the increasing demand by business owners and investors in the state for outlet spaces, as some of the business districts in Ilorin have been congested. Barely a week after performing the groundbreaking of the construction of The Hub, the governor also flagged off the construction of 1,000 housing units at BudoOsho area of Ilorin. The construction of the 1,000 Maigida Housing units as explained by Governor Ahmed, is aimed at addressing the housing deficit in the State by providing quality and affordable shelters for low and middle class workers, and frees them from the shackle of landlords. The housing scheme will comprise 700 three-bedroom flats and 300 two-bedroom flats. The Budo-Osho Housing Scheme, which is in partnership with private developers, is part of Kwara State government’s vision for developing the housing sector and ensuring mass quality housing for all for the economic development of the state, given the multiplier effects that the sector can produce in terms of maximizing human potentials for development and growth, as well boosting the building and construction sectors.

The state government has assured that the housing scheme will be replicated across the 16 local government areas of the state, adding that it will continue to support private developers by providing land and other incentives to fast track housing delivery to the people of Kwara at an affordable rate. In addition, the state government has facilitated a number of business shops adjacent The Hub, which when completed will be provided for small business owners who are in need of outlet spaces. No doubt, the housing investment the Kwara State government is embarking on has the potential of creating jobs for local artisans such as bricklayers, electricians, carpenters, plumbers and others that will be working on these sites. All of the above highlighted projects clearly underscore the importance the state government attributes to infrastructural development, which is a proof that greater economic prosperity is imminent in Kwara State. With the commitment of the present administration under Governor Ahmed towards infrastructural development coupled with its shrewd financial management, Kwara State could be said to be readily marching towards a sustainable development.

Ondo 2016: APC caucus endorses Abraham Babatope Okeowo Akure

head of the party’s primaries to elect the candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) for November 26 governorship election in Ondo State, the caucus of the party has thrown its weight behind the gubernatorial aspiration of Dr. Olusegun Abraham. The caucus which consists of loyal members of the party right from the Alliance for Democracy (AD), to the defunct Action Congress (AC) and the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) met in Ile-Oluji in IleOluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area of the state where they took the decision to endorse the aspiration of one of them -Abraham. The leader of the caucus, Chief Olorunsola Adesoji, a former party Chairman and former gubernatorial aspirant in state, Comrade Sola Iji, said the decision to pick Olusegun Abraham came after an assessment and consideration of other aspirants in the past seven months. They said that the five cardinal parameters including acceptability, eligibility, salability, sincerity and integrity were consid-

ered before the decision was taken. Their words: “The unanimous decision to adopt the candidacy of Dr. Olusegun Abraham was finalised on the March 30 this year, after we confirmed from assessment that he is the only candidate that excelled in all the parameters of consideration. “Among the gubernatorial aspirants contesting for the ticket of our party, it took us some time to come to the carefully thoughtout decision to support the aspiration of Olusegun Abraham to serve Ondo State. We have informed the party and also mandated them to identify with this decision.” In his response, Abraham appreciated the founding members and leaders of the party for choosing him and promised not to disappoint them. His words “I thank you for choosing me. You’ve done this not just for me, but also for Ondo State. I appreciate the fact that you chose to identify with the mission to take Ondo to a truly prosperous level where no one will be left out in the experience of blessings from the fruits of practical governance. “The mission is to transform Ondo from a third world state to a first class state worthy of emulation for other states.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, 29 MAY 2016

RazzleDazzle

Body&Soul Abiola Alaba Peters

with

08062622328 abiolaalabapeters@rockmail.com

Nigerian entertainers who ventured into politics from 1999 till date Hilda Dokubo

eteran Niger i a n actress, Hilda Dokubo, was one time the special adviser to the former Governor of Rivers State, Peter Odili. “I am grateful that by the example I left, entertainers today are given political offers. If I had messed up that role, nobody would call any entertainer to hold any appointment. So as the first person given such an offer, I thank God for setting a good example,” she said after her exist from office. Hilda Dokubo who is one of the top actresses that ruled the screen in the early 90s and 2000 runs a Non-Governmental Organisation.

Kate Henshaw

ross River State b o r n award winning Nollywood actress, Kate Henshaw, made her intention to venture into politics known in July, 2014. Having contested for the Federal House of Representatives, representing Calabar Municipal/Odukpani under the Peoples Democratic Party, Kate Henshaw was made Special Adviser, Liaison, Lagos, to Cross River State. Born in Cross River State, the oldest of four children, Kate completed her primary and secondary school in Lagos and Calabar. She spent one year at the University of Calabar reading Remedial studies, and then majored in Medical Microbiology at the School of Medical Lab Science, Lagos University Teaching Hospital.

Nkiru Sylvanus

ight skinned Nollywood actress, who was once the Special Assistant to the Governor of Imo State on Lagos Affairs, was appointed by Owelle Rochas Okorocha in 2011. The sultry actress, who was catapulted to stardom in her epic movie ‘A Cry for Help”, has starred in over a hundred Nollywood movies. She has disappeared from the screen for so many years now. Nkiru, who described her father as her best friend and only critic, is a Mass Communication graduate of Enugu State University of Science and Technology. The beautiful actress has a strong phobia for reptiles, snakes to be precise.

Since 1999 when the country returned to democratic rule, the Nigerian entertainment industry has had its fair share of dividends of democracy, from having the freedom of expression in their songs, to clinching top corporate endorsement deals and international record deals. ABIOLA ALABA PETERS chronicles top Nigerian entertainers who went into the world of politics from 1999 till date

Desmond Elliot

Rotimi Makinde

Femi Adebayo

esmond Olusola Elliot is a seasoned actor and producer in Nollywood. He said he entered into politics so he could give back to his society. He ran for the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015 and was elected a lawmaker, Surulere Constituency, in the 2015 general elections, under the All Progressive Congress platform. Elliot was born to a Yoruba father and a Delta State mother. He had his primary education at Air Force Primary School and later attended St John’s College, both in Jos. In 2003, he graduated from Lagos State University where he studied Economics.

ollywood actor turned politician, Honourable Rotimi Makinde, is a federal lawmaker representing Ife Federal Constituency, Osun State, South-West Nigeria, under the platform of All Progressive Congress. The talented thespian, who rocked the screen in the 90s, got married to Osun State ex-beauty queen, Banke Oyelami, on the August 24, 2013 and they welcomed their first child in 2014. Makinde is the deputy Chairman, Human Rights Committee at the National Assembly. He is a well-known Nigerian film actor and producer but very few people know that he was also an accomplished accountant who voluntarily retired in 2011 to join politics.

n February 2016, popular Yoruba actor, Femi Adebayo, a certified lawyer, was made the Special Adviser on Arts, Culture and Tourism to the Governor of Kwara State, Abdulfatah Ahmed. He made the announcement on his social media. “I have been appointed a Special Assistant to the Kwara State governor on Arts, Tourism and Culture. It’s an opportunity to transform my state into a foremost tourism state that will attract foreign and domestic investments,” he said. Femi who is also the son of legendary actor, Adebayo Salami, famously known as Oga Bello, attended the University of Ilorin where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Law and a Master in Theatre Arts.

Kenny Saint Brown

ennis Music V i c e President and multiple aw a r d -w i n ning gospel act, popularly referred to as KSB made her intentions known to venture into politics in the 2015 general elections. She contested for a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly and lost under the All Progressive Congress platform. “I want to do so much for my people; I really want to empower our youth and not just by organising boring seminars, but by practical ways, our women also need help, women need to be empowered and have support for their businesses and families,” the Lagos born artiste said at an event in Lagos.

Yemi Solade

emi Solade is popular for starring in Yoruba films and the award winning TV series ‘Super Story’. The light-skinned Nollywood actor contested for a seat in the Senate on the platform of the All Progressives Congress. Although he couldn’t make it to the house, Yemi has not given up on politics. The Ondo State born left his lecturing job to focus on theatre after experiencing riots twice in northern Nigeria. His house was burnt down and he returned to salvage the situation when the coast was clear. When he discovered that the MKO elections were approaching, he had to run home because of the imminent troubles that might accompany it.

Richard Mofe-Damijo

ne of Nol lywood’s leading man, Richard Mofe Damijo, moved into politics in 2009 when he was made Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State. Appointed by the then governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduagan, the longtime movie star, popularly known as RMD, won the African Movie Academy Award 2005. Starring in over one hundred local and international movies, RMD, who has returned to acting, is also a one time journalist. He attended Midwest College, Warri and Anglican Grammar School and was a member of the Drama Club. He enrolled in the University of Benin, where he studied Theatre Arts and later studied law at the University of Lagos.

Dayo ‘D1’ Adeneye

n November 2014, media personality, Dayo ‘D1’ Adeneye, announced that he was running for a political office. He released a poster and wrote ‘My dear friends, having succumbed to the wishes and requests of my people in Ogun State, I have decided to contest in the 2015 elections. Kindly keep me in your prayers as I embark on this next phase of my life.” He lost at the primaries but was appointed Commissioner for Information and Strategy a year later. He also serves as a member of the Media and Publicity Committee for Governor Ibikunle Amosun. Dayo is a foremost media and Television guru.

Bob-Manuel Udokwu

ob Manuel Udokwu is one of the best actors in Nollywood, starting as early as 1991 when the industry was not well organised. The Anambra State born actor declared his love for politics when he ran for a seat at the Anambra State House of Assembly in 2015. The actor who contested on the platform of All Progressive Grand Alliance and failed, was appointed Senior Special Adviser on Nollywood and Entertainment to Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano. In 2014, the dark veteran actor cum TV host received a Lifetime Achievement award at the 10th Africa Movie Academy Awards.

SUNDAY, 29 MAY 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Don’t let money issues ruin your relationship

enneth and Grace met through a mutual friend and fell in love. They quickly got married after a brief courtship of six months. At the time they met each other, Kenneth was a building supervisor for a construction company, while she was working as a sales girl in a boutique nearby. They had a small wedding and moved into their one bedroom apartment to start their lives together. Initially, they didn’t have qualms about money issues. Kenneth will drop N1, 000-N2, 000 for her to prepare food for the day. She will manage it and even bring back a little change. This went on for a while until one day Kenneth came home to announce that he just lost his job. Grace was devastated because she had earlier quit her job when she became pregnant. Unfortunately, Kenneth did not have any savings in any bank, so things became quite rough at home. It got to the extent that to eat three square meals was almost impossible. After Grace gave birth to their son, she overstayed at the maternity ward of the general hospital because her husband couldn’t pay the required bills for her discharge from the hospital. The situation angered Grace so much that she decided enough was enough with her husband’s financial situation. When she got home, she made life for Kenneth very miserable. She started making demands for things she knew her husband could not provide with his current jobless predicament. For instance, she wanted to use pampers for her baby when she could use napkins as an alternative. When her husband tried to explain to her that he couldn’t afford to buy pampers

from the meager money he was making hustling at different construction sites carrying bricks; she would shout and scream abuses at him using horrific and unprintable words. The man had simply lost all the respect his wife had for him. Kenneth tried to bear her abuses as much as he could until one day he couldn’t take it anymore. When she started berating his character and calling him all sort of names, he didn’t know when he swiftly turned and slapped her! That was how a fight ensued between couples that had professed love for each other at the beginning of their relationship. Their neighbours rushed into their sitting room to separate the fight and find out what could make an amiable man like Kenneth attack his wife. When the neighbours found out from both parties that it was ‘money palaver’ that was causing the friction between them,

an elderly man in their midst had to sit them down to drum in a few home truths about managing their home finances. In Nigeria today with the harsh economic crisis we have been facing lately, a lot of marriages have crashed because the man could no longer provide for his family or that the woman felt the grass was greener in another man’s house. It’s true that love can make the world go round, but disagreements over money can stop even the best relationship dead in its tracks. If you are in a committed relationship like a marriage or you are in courtship, it is important to talk about money and how both of you intend to handle the financial issues at home. Often times, you will hear people say: “Please don’t bring money into a relationship. It will surely ruin it or money will not bring you happiness”. Well, money may not buy love but

It’s true that love can make the world go round, but disagreements over money can stop even the best relationship dead in its tracks

fighting about it will definitely bankrupt your relationship. Don’t let money issues ruin your relationship. Learn how to effectively address and resolve these problems with your loved ones amicably. Granted that money is a very sensitive topic that people shy away from, yet it has become the bane of many marriages as they head off to court for divorce settlements. As much as you are in love with your partner, before you make that commitment of saying ‘I DO’; it is imperative both of you sit down and discuss how you intend to handle finances in the home. The days when men were described as the sole bread winner in a home have gone with the last decade and the same thing goes with the times when women have been described as Oriaku (wealth eater). In these days of economic crunch and recession, Women have woken up to the rude shock that their men can no longer provide for their every need. So it is a wise woman who strives to engage in a career or trade to support her husband at home. That way, she will be referred to as Odoziaku (good manager of wealth). Marriage is a partnership. That means both parties need to be involved in the finances. Separating the money or splitting the bills without appropriate discussions with your partner is a bad idea. It often breeds lack of trust and suspicion if your partner does not know how you make your money and also how you spend it. But if everybody brings their finances to a round table where it will be used for the good of all in that marriage, it will relieve the marriage of money pressures and the many quarrels it brings into relationships.

Making our society more tolerant of mental health issues

oday, I want us to begin our discussion with a question. What would you do if you heard that a colleague at work has been off work due to Mental health illness and is now back at work? Would you: a. Do everything within your power to avoid the friend? b. Greet the friend and say nothing of his sickness and further pretend nothing is amiss? c. Greet the friend and ask how he is feeling now? If you chose options a and b, don’t worry, you fall within a majority group in Nigeria who either ignore the patient or the issues of mental health in their environment and that is what we have been trying to change in the last three weeks by forcing a conversation. Therefore, the time has come to address the society, the people around the issues and the patients affected by the sickness. The people who do the labeling and sidelining in one breathe without considering the impact of their actions. The list here is in no way comprehensive, but hopefully covers the major players who should lead the charge in the war, through research, funding and education, against mental health illness. I start with the religious leaders, the peddlers of salvation and miracle in our country. The ones who label every mental illness as a spiritual attack from the devil and his demons. The ones who charge tithe to cast and bind the evil spirit and free the patient rather than encourage them to seek help from the trained professionals. It is time for religious leaders to take charge of the education surrounding all things mental health. Most of the churches in Nigeria have universities and so can put some money into research facilities. Preaching

miracles, preaching affliction, and preaching healing in the after life will not help them. Most people worship their pastors more than God and so the Pastors may just be the missing link to the right source of help. Aside from the religious leaders, media practitioners too must keep the conversation and discussion around mental health in the foreground. It is a burning issue as the harsh economic situation in Nigeria is taking its toll mentally and emotionally on Nigerians. Only a few weeks ago, I wrote on this page about a man who said he wished everyone died in the country. He was frustrated and it was unsettling him in all ways. Such a man must be helped and help can only come when we openly dis-

cuss mental health. Often times, the people we stone and punish as being witches and wizards certainly are just sick and in need of medical care. A thorough media focus will educate the citizenry and prevent ignorant conclusions. How about higher institutions and educational institutions in general. Well, it is time to focus on mental health. Nigeria needs professional who are up to date with current trends in the treatment and management of mental health patients. Medical students should be encouraged to embrace Psychiatry and other related disciplines. Yes, it may not be a lucrative arm of medicine, but it certainly has its rewards. That is why we must commend all the doctors at all the mental health units in every Nige-

Private industries who keep pumping money into entertainment and lifestyle that promote excesses also need to come on board and help with a little contribution into research

rian hospital. Your unseen work is appreciated. The university administration must also put more funding into research in this area. Seek external partnership if necessary. I know a number of international agencies and foreign universities willing to partner on such projects. Such avenues must be explored to the fullest. Private industries who keep pumping money into entertainment and lifestyle that promote excesses also need to come on board and help with a little contribution into research. The patients are also their customers and deserve a chance at enjoying qualitative life. They have the power to give the patients that sort of life instead of lining the pockets of already rich celebrities. This also goes to private hospitals that are only interested in collecting money from already impoverished society. I was trying to find if there has been any private psychiatry hospital established in Nigeria and you can guess my answer. This needs to change. Someone will ask, why leave out the government. Shouldn’t they be leading the charge? Where is the Minister of Health in all of this? Well, my answer is that in a democracy, we all are the government and so the government is already implicated in all the parties I have appealed to above. In Yaba Psychiatric Hospital, Lagos, and the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta (popularly called Aro), we have perhaps the biggest institutions to lead the research and education in this area. We must fund and utilize them better. I close this series today, but I hope I have just initiated an open conversation around mental health that will make our society more accommodating of sufferers.

Y 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

nkara and big eves trend

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2016

favourite things kara fabrics is the twist it into whatground at the motrends may come zes that with Anvered and can do you can bend it to with patterns and eve even contemdesigns. With the

current craze for big sleeves in the international global fashion scene, Nigerians are not left out as they use both English and Ankara fabrics to rock this trend. Big sleeves and the “cold shoulder” or bardot styles reign supreme at the moment. Any Ankara fabric can transport you to one of the trendy chic ladies around. Those big sleeves represent today’s woman and how much she has achieved. Her fearlessness,

fierceness and how she transcends social restraints to explore the strength of her femininity. She will not be held down and that is how her sleeves shrug off the manacles that held her bound. This style can be worn to work and on a night out. If Ankara is not your thing, use other fabrics like chiffon, satin, silk, etc and showcase your uniqueness. Accessorise wisely and you all definitely stand out in your large sleeves.

Popping makeup for ‘Gele’ styles Vanessa Okwara

he weekend in Nigeria is generally for ‘gbedu’ and attending different occasions. As Nigeria celebrates another Democracy day today, different top level events will be held in honour of the country’s young democracy. For the ladies appearing in traditional outfits, your looks cannot be complete without a well-crafted ‘Gele’ (head tie) adorning your head to give you that glamorous appearance. A perfect ‘Gele’ is all you need to bring out the beauty of your makeup. When the layers are perfectly aligned, the fan is perfect

in all angles, and the colours and design of the ‘Gele’ are popping in the right places, all you need is the perfect makeup to stand out from the crowd. As the ‘Gele’ helps to frame and bring out the face, it is important to pay careful attention to your makeup to get that perfect look that will go with your ensemble. In getting the perfect makeup, it’s best to identify your best selling point in your look to make yours stand out. It could be to highlight more on the eyes or on the lips to bring that glam to your overall look.

SUNDAY, 29 MAY 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Cap style: how Nigerians rock it

Olu Jacobs

Veteran actor per excellence Vanessa Okwara

s we mark another milestone in our democratic journey, we have seen the fashion culture of Nigerians evolve to imbibe more of African clothing than ever before. Both the young and old are not ashamed to show off their cultural heritage by their attire. In Africa and some other parts of the world, caps have been used as fashion statements. You see a lot of Nigerian men embracing their ethnicity by wearing clothes that identify their cultural heritage and complete their ensemble with a traditional cap to depict their ethnicity or simply their love for Nigerian designs irrespective of where they come from. Take for instance, a lot of people from other cultures now wear the Yoruba Agbada and even rock it in style. In Nigerian politics, decades ago, Chief Obafemi Awolowo was known for a particular type of cap which is still worn by his followers and admirers till date. Caps still form part of fashion statement, especially by celebrities who wear them in special ways. Cap represents so many things to different ethnic groups in Nigeria. The cap in Igbo land symbolizes honour and is normally worn by men who are seen as respectable men in that part of

the country. In Igbo land the red for chiefs, while an ordinary person can wear black, brown green or white. To the Yoruba man, the cap represents culture and authority. The ‘fila’Yoruba male head cover is beauty and black manhood! The ‘Abetiaja’ hat is often ‘flapped’ up or down and often seen in the rural areas of Nigeria. A Yoruba man adorns his head with a ‘fila gobi,’ which he manipulates to a left, right, center, or upright angle and it goes well with the Agbada. Hausa men are recognisable by their elaborate dress. Many wear large, flowing gowns (Gare or Babban riga), with elaborate embroidery around the neck. They also wear colourful embroidered caps (hula). There are different types of cap for Hausa - ones for children, some to cover your head or some to wear with Turban and even as ‘politician cap’. Most often the caps are coloured white with exotic embroidery. The Hausa ‘Fula Kube’ skull cap is often determined by the thickness and embroidery of the cap. As we celebrate 17 years of democracy today, make a fashion statement by wearing a cap; showing off your ethnicity and celebrate your cultural heritage. Happy Democracy Day!

Vanessa Okwara

ludotun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, is a Nigerian actor. He has starred in several British television series and international films. In 2007 he won the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Olu Jacobs, no doubt, is an actor par excellence. He is a very strong voice in Nollywood and has quite a number of successful and up-coming players in the movie industry, adopting him as their role model. Veteran and seasoned actor Olu Jacobs has so many acting roles under his fold. He has executed his roles with perfection and he’s quite easily identified by the stern looks and growling sounds he makes in his movies. 73 this year, Jacobs turned out to be almost as witty and informed as any professional with that baritone voice that often leaves indelible impressions on his audience. He trained at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, England. He then starred in various British television shows and series in the 1970s. In the 1980s Jacobs starred in several international films some of which include John Irvin’s war film The Dogs of War, Roman Polanski’s adventure-comedy Pirates and the familyadventure film Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend. Jacobs has starred in over 120 Nollywood films. Olu Jacobs was honoured with the Industry Merit Award for outstanding achievements in acting at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards. For a man of his age, Olu Jacobs is quite fashionable. He modeled for one of the most successful fashion labels in Nigeria, Mudi Africa. The actor is the new face of the clothing line. Jacobs is married to Nollywood actress Joke Silva for over twenty-nine years and they are blessed with children.

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SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

SUNDAY 29 MAY, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

His Excellency

Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson Governor, Bayelsa State

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

News

Buhari orders probe of Nigeria’s maritime sector p.46

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Interview

Hyundai Motors donates learning kits to youngsters

We need to be at ports, increase manpower to enforce standards –Angya

p.47

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Business

Paul Ogbuokiri Head, Business

paulogbuokiri@newtelegraph

Interbank rates fall on expectations of budget disbursal

L-R: Chairman, Audit Committee Institute, Nigeria (ACI), Mr. Christian Ekeigwe; Professor, Business Policy & Strategy, University of Port-harcourt, Prof. Badford Fubura; Professor of Business Ethics & CSR, International University of Monaco, Prof. Eleftheria Egel; Representative of Vice Chancellor, Nasarawa State University, Prof. Suleiman Aruwa and Founder, International Institute for Spiritual Leadership, Prof. Louis Fry at 2016 Audit Committee Conference entitled: ”Spirituality & Ethics in the Workplace” in Lagos… yesterday. PHOTO:GODWIN IREKHE

May 29: Economy worst in years I

Paul Ogbuokiri mmediately the PDP-led Federal Government was voted out of office by Nigerians, their despair, hopelessness under the regime, was replaced with hope as the new kid on the block, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) represented change, good life for Nigerians, because according to him: “he is for all and for nobody”. Unfortunately for President Buhari, before he could assume the mantle of leadership of the country, the global oil politics had reset the oil price (on a downward trend), a development that had made life for Buhari’s subjects more bearable under the watch of the ‘corrupt’ Jonathan administration. The economic situation continued to become dire, posting negative results on all fundamentals, even as the government continued to reassure the distraught citizens that it was clearing the huge mess left behind by ex-President Jonathan, even as the president ran the country for several months without a clear-cut economic policy or an economic team in place. Dwindling revenue of government occasioned by the fall in oil prices in the international market meant low foreign exchange at the disposal of gov-

•Cost of living galloping •Inflation •Fuel pump price hike •Fall in exchange rate of naira ernment. Thus, the demand for forex was outweighing supply, putting intense pressure on the country’s foreign reserves. In response, government first frooze the allocation of forex for the importation of 41 categories of goods, then it put in place a forex control regime that pegged the official exchange rate of the naira at N197 a dollar and stopped allocating forex to the Bureau De Changes. The pegging of the naira caused undue scarcity of the American green back, making it difficult for importers to bring the most essential imports that the country depends. The National Bureau of Statistics said last week that inflation has also been fuelled by pressure on the naira, which last week slipped to its weakest level in months (N370) against the dollar in the nondeliverable forward market. It exchanged at N352 on Wednesday after appreciating to about N347 a dollar. Bloomberg analysts say the foreign-exchange trading restrictions and import curbs

have led to shortages of goods from petrol to essential drugs and contributed to the contraction in factory output in the first three months of 2016. The situation is expected to worsen in this second quarter with the basic necessities of life, which are mainly imported; becoming more and more scarce. Unemployment rose to 12.1 per cent in the first quarter from 10.4 per cent in the previous three months, NBS said in a separate report. Scarcity of forex also induced galloping inflation, as prices of goods continue to rise uncontrollably in the market, while

The economy risks falling into recession after it shrank in the first quarter as oil output slumped and the manufacturing, financial and real estate industries declined

importers were no longer able to source forex to import goods to replenish their stock and manufacturers could no longer bring in the needed raw materials for their factories. Also, food prices, which account for the bulk of the inflation basket, rose 13.2 per cent in April, up 0.4 percentage points from March, the NBS said on its website. Bloomberg analysts say the economy risks falling into recession after it shrank in the first quarter as oil output slumped and the manufacturing, financial and real estate industries declined. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Governor, Godwin Emefiele confirmed during a press conference after the Monetary Policy Committee meeting on Tuesday that recession is looming. This is even as the National Bureau of Statistics’ (NBS) Quarterly Report released on Tuesday indicated that the economy contracted in the first three months of the 2016 posting the worst negative result of CO N T I N U E D O N PAGE 46

igeria’s overnight interbank rate eased to an average of five per cent for overnight lending on Friday, down from nine per cent last week in anticipation of April budgetary allocations disbursal to government agencies. The Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC), distributes money from oil revenue to its three tiers of government from the federation account, which provides liquidity for the banking sector and eases the cost of borrowing among banks. “There were speculations of possible injection of April budget allocation into the system Friday, this forced down cost of borrowing from an average of 8 percent in early trade to 5 percent at 1330GMT,” one dealer said. Total banking system liquidity stood at N277 billion ($1.39 billion) on Friday, compared with N141.7 billion last week, dealers said. They said system liquidity should receive a boost next week by the time the central bank injected budget allocations to states and local governments. Also on Thursday, the central bank retired about N83.81 billion in matured treasury bills into the system, which further helped to lower the cost of borrowing at the interbank. “We expect (the) rate to further drop next week when budget cash would have hit the system,’ another dealer said.

Oil dips after hitting $50 a barrels

il prices eased on Friday after topping $50 a barrel for the first time in about seven months, while U.S. stocks ended near flat after two days of strong gains.

Concern that robust oil price gains could encourage more output weighed on the energy market. Oil futures have risen nearly 90 per cent from 12-year lows hit this winter. “The global surplus still exists and there is still a possibility that oil prices could retrace further,” said Dominick Chirichella, senior partner at the Energy Management Institute in New York. Brent dipped 15 cents to settle at $49.59 after earlier rising to $50.51, its highest level since early November. U.S. crude futures fell 8 cents to settle at $49.48 after rising to $50.21, the highest level since mid-October. West Texas Intermediate for July delivery slipped 8 cents to close at $49.48 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Total volume traded was 27 per cent below the 100-day average. Prices are up about 90 per cent from a February low. U.S. production has dropped to the lowest since September 2014 while attacks in Nigeria have cut output to a 20-year low. Venezuelan production has been hit by power cuts and Canadian volumes have been curbed by wildfires.

SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Business

G7 vows to boost global growth

L-R: Head, Human Resources, UAC of Nigeria Plc, Mrs. Osa Osowa; Managing Director, Chemical & Allied Products (CAP) Plc, Mrs. Omolara Elemide; the Presenter, Mr. Joe Mbulu and Human Resources Manager, Chemical & Allied Products (CAP) Plc, Olumide Adediji, during the presentation of the Great Place To Work Award to CAP Plc in Lagos

Buhari orders probe of Nigeria’s maritime sector P resident Muhammadu Buhari has approved the audit of the maritime sector to ascertain why it is not making the desired progress, a statement issued by the Ministry of Transportation on Thursday said. The statement was signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs of the Ministry, Yetunde Sonaike. It said the Minister, Rotimi

Amaechi, made this known when a delegation of the Technical Unit on Governance and Anti-Corruption Reforms (TUGAR), paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja. Amaechi said the purpose of the audit was to ascertain why the nation’s seaports were not making progress in terms of timely clearance of goods, when compared with those of neighbour-

ing countries. The minister said corruption at the ports were endemic and urged agencies directly involved in the process of inspection and clearance of goods to evolve ways of curbing corruption. The minister expressed concern over the frequency of diversion of vessels to neighbouring countries due to bottlenecks at the nation’s ports.

Meanwhile, the statement noted that Buhari had also approved a `National Single Window’ designed to ease clearance as well as tackle corruption at the seaports. It explained that the National Single Window is an automated system which allows for instant screening and scanning of vessels which would facilitate the clearance of goods 24 hours.

Maritime journalists group elects new leaders Stanley Ihedigbo

aritime Journalists Association of Nigeria (AMJON), the new umbrella body of all maritime journalists in Nigeria, on Thursday inaugurated its pioneer executive council after a successful election in Apapa, Lagos. A statement by the new Public Relations Officer of AMJON, Mr. Kelvin Kagbare, praised the Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotime Amaechi, for inspiring the coming together of the maritime journalists reporting the Nigerian maritime industry, saying several attempts to bring together the several groups of maritime journalists under one umbrella failed to realize the objective. He said that the election was witnessed by representatives of maritime parastatals, including: Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Shippers’ Council

•Pledges to collaborate with stakeholders (NSC), and leading freight forwarders association, the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), the Commissioner of Police, Ports amongst others. Sunday Telegraph learnt that at the end of the election which was conducted under a peaceful atmosphere, Mr. Ismail Aniemu of The Journal Magazine emerged president; Paul Ogbuokiri of New Telegraph was elected Vice President; Clementine Okoye of COOL/WAZOBIA FM was elected Secretary General. Others are Innocent Orok of This Page Newspaper, Treasurer and Femi Orioye of OGBC FM emerging Financial Secretary. Also elected were: Kelvin Igho kagbare of Maritime Nigeria (Public Relations Officer); Uche Usim of Daily Sun (Provost 1) and Stan Okenwa of Champion Newspapers (Assistant Secretary General). Those who clinched the Board of Trustees (BOT) positions were; Elder Asu

Beks-Chairman, Ubon Akpan, Friday Odemena and Eguono Odjegba. Meanwhile, the new president of AMJON, Mr. Ismail Aniemu has described the coming into being of AMJON and successful conduct of the election as victory for maritime journalism and the practitioners. He said AMJON doors are wide open to accommodate all true maritime journalists who have not yet come onboard the AMJON train. He said the new execu-

tives’ cardinal programme is to grow members reportorial capacity, enhance professional image including building strong bridges of industry relationship aimed at elevating the capacity of AMJON members without compromising the ethics and universal principles of journalism practice. Observers, who lauded the emergence of the united maritime journalists association, described the conduct of the election as very peaceful and transparent.

he Group of Seven industrial powers pledged on Friday to seek strong global growth, while papering over differences on currencies and stimulus policies and expressing concern over North Korea, Russia and maritime disputes involving China. G7 leaders wrapped up a summit in central Japan vowing to use “all policy tools” to boost demand and ease supply constraints. “Global growth remains moderate and below potential, while risks of weak growth persist,” they said in a declaration. “Global growth is our urgent priority.” Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, talking up what he calls parallels to the global financial crisis that followed the 2008 Lehman Brothers bankruptcy, said the G7 “shares a strong sense of crisis” about the global outlook. “The most worrisome risk is a contraction of the global economy,” led by a slowdown in emerging economies, Abe told a news conference after chairing the two-day summit. “There is a risk of the global economy falling into crisis if appropriate policy responses are not made.” In the broad-ranging, 32-page declaration, the G7 committed to market-based exchange rates and to avoiding “competitive devaluation” of their currencies, while warning against wild exchange-rate moves. This represents a compromise between the positions of Japan, which has threatened to intervene to block sharp yen rises, and the United States, which generally opposes market intervention. The G7 vowed “a more forceful and balanced policy mix” to “achieve a strong, sustainable and balanced growth pattern”, taking each country’s circumstances into account, while continuing efforts to put public debt on a sustainable path.

L-R: Director, Information Technology and Mobile, Mr. Olumide Ojo; Director & Business Leader, Information Technology and Mobile, Mr. Emmanouil Revmatas, both of Samsung Electronics West Africa; Winner, Samsung “Inspire Bigger Dreams” contest, Ibrahim Salihu, and Manager, Product Marketing, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Mr. Chaejin Im, during the presentation of Samsung mobile devices to winners of its just concluded campaign in Lagos…recently

AT&T bids for Yahoo’s internet business

T&T Inc (T.N), the No. 2 U.S. wireless carrier, has made a bid for Yahoo Inc’s (YHOO.O) internet business, Bloomberg reported this week, citing people familiar with the matter. Yahoo’s shares recouped some of their losses following the report and were down 2.3 per cent at $36.64 in midday trading. They had dropped as much as 3.7 per cent earlier. AT&T had previously decided against making an offer, people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg in April. Reuters, citing sources, reported on April 29 that Yahoo had shortlisted close to 10 bidders in an auction for its internet business, including Verizon Communications Inc (VZ.N), the biggest U.S. wireless carrier. While Verizon remains a favorite, it didn’t submit one of the highest first-round bids, Bloomberg reported, citing two of the people. Digital advertising company YP Holdings LLC, which is backed by AT&T, is no longer pursuing a bid, the report said

May 29: Economy worst in years CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 4 5

0.36 per cent Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth. According to the data from the Central Bank of Nigeria website, the last time the economy contracted was the second quarter of 2004. The contraction “shows that Nigerians and particularly CBN should now

reconsider the tightening stance they have embarked upon,” Ayo Teriba, chief executive officer of Economic Associates Ltd., an advisory firm, said by phone Wednesday. However in a policy Uturn designed to boost exports and stave off the recession, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)

at the end of its meeting on Tuesday in Abuja announced that the CBN was jettisoning its pegged regime and adopting a flexible exchange policy. This also set the money and capital markets agog with speculation that the central bank was finally set to devalue the naira to about N280 to the dollar.

In response, the price equities quoted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) on Wednesday soared to a 19-week high with banks leading the charge as the policy u-turn from the Central Bank on exchange rates is expected to improve dollar liquidity and ending currency controls that has stifled the equity market.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

Auto beat Motoring tips

Signs of fatigue include:

Hyundai Motors Nigeria team with pupils of Dairy Farm Primary School Agege Lagos displaying their Hyundai school bags after the presentation of the educational supplies to the school recently

Hyundai Motors donates learning kits to youngsters

Paul Ogbuokiri

yundai Motors Nigeria Limited (HMNL) has described basic education as a prime obligation of all children of school age, pledging to continually assist school pupils in Nigeria in line with Hyundai Motor Corporation corporate social responsibility values of ‘Moving the World Together.’ HMNL made this remark at the commencement of the distribution of this year’s Hyundai-branded educational enhancing materials to hundreds of thousands of school pupils across seven states in a campaign tagged ‘Education for Brighter Tomorrow.’ No fewer than 13 schools in three geo-political zones of South-West, North Central, and South-South are listed as beneficiaries of this year’s campaign, which started in Lagos and Ibadan in the South West of Nigeria. The campaign which is ongoing moves to Benin, Asaba, Warri, Calabar, PortHarcourt and Abuja, the Hyundai Motor manufacturing and marketing company

affirmed. Addressing students and teachers of Dairy Farm Senior Secondary School Agege Lagos, Hyundai Motors Nigeria Head of Sales and Marketing Jatin Nadkarni said the charitable initiative was a continuation of HMNL commitment to the welfare of children from the less privileged families. This initiative began in 2010 with donation of supplies to the less privileged including old people’s homes and orphanages with the chief aim of halving the population of children vulnerable to malaria scourge, especially those aged between six months and five years, representing 52 per cent of the country’s populace, Nadkarni explained. He said: “It is imperative to bridge the gap between children of the rich and poor especially those in basic schools by motivating the less privileged children to learn without fear of discrimination.” He pledged the company’s commitment to influencing the enrolment of more children of school age in basic schools through the provision of educational support materials such as school bags, exercise books,

water bottles, pens/pencils and mathematical sets among others. “With children less than 15 years of age accounting for 45 per cent of the country’s population, the burden on education and other sectors has become overwhelming,” the Hyundai marketing helmsman said. Also lamenting that about 4.7 million children of primary school age are still not in school despite increase in enrolment rates, Nadkarni said: “The branded Hyundai educational materials will not only entice more students but assuage the cost borne by their parents in procuring fundamental basic items needed by the children.” He told the school children, who congregated for photo shots after receiving their branded educational materials, that: “Hyundai Motors is determined to avoid undue intimidation caused by the widening gap between the rich and the poor in today’s volatile society.” Responding, Tutor General, Dairy Farm Secondary School, Agege, Lagos, Dr. Mrs. Ayandele O. applauded HMNL’s gesture, pledging the school’s commitment to uplifting child development through enhanced learning.

Constant yawning, drifting over lanes, sore eyes, trouble keeping your head upright, delayed reactions, day dreaming, difficulty remembering driving the last few kilometers, variations in driving speed. Most importantly if you feel tired, pull over and have apowernap, otherwise you may experience microsleeps which are dangerous while driving. Once you are fatigued the only cure is to stop and take a break. Microsleeps Microsleeps are when you nod off for unintended periods of light sleep that last a few seconds or several minutes. You may just lose attention and stare blankly or even close your eyes and your head might snap up. Micosleeps are dangerous when driving. During a 4 second microsleep a car travelling at 100km/h will travel 111 m while completely out of the drivers control. Microsleeps usually occur at times when you would normally be asleep or when you are tired and trying to stay awake.

Check the level of fuel

The acronym ‘POWDERS’ is for every driver who wants to embark on a journey P- Petrol/Diesel: Check the level of fuel if it is sufficient for the trip. O-Oil: Check your engine oil and other lubricants if they are gauged. W-Water: Check all water compartment, this includes radiator, wiper wash etc. D-Documents: Check if you are carrying necessary documents and if they are valid. E-Electrical: Check all electrical gadget necessary for the trip this includes your head lamp, wiper, etc. R-rubber: This includes your tyre if they are gauged also the extra tyre and all other rubber materials necessary.ESafety: Are all safety equipments in place before embarking on the journey? This includes your fire extinguishers, C-caution signs etc. So remember POWDERS,…..Put safety first.

10 reasons why vans are making a comeback

he van has been the preferred vehicle for artisans since the 1950s. Plumbers, electricians, and the like use vans to transport their tools and goods, and when families move home they call “The Man with a Van”. Africa’s vast distances and rough roads demand durability and toughness. In South Africa, if you need something moved you would generally ask a friend with a van or bakkie. And because bakkies are the best selling vehicles in the country, one was generally at hand. But is the humble van gaining in popularity? The Ford Transit, one of the bestselling vans in the world, has been in constant production since 1965 and is now available in SA in several new and exciting configurations with added features. If you are looking for space, The Ford Transit Van has 15.1 cubic meters of cargo space in the back. That’s 15,100 litres or the space to pack in 629 grocery shopping bags. There is also the Ford Transit Custom Sport, which is available with all the same driving technology found in a luxury se-

dan. From Ford’s hands-free SYNC®2 entertainment centre, lane-keeping alert, parking sensors, cruise control, rear-view camera, and electronic stability control, the Ford Transit Custom Sport could be the new ride for your family. Not convinced? To show what can be

done with these vans, we found 10 of the best Ford Transits in the world: 1. The Limo Stretch limousines are out of date. So Chicago-based Windy City Limousines converted their Ford Transit into a plush ride equipped to carry 13

passengers in luxury and style – with a wooden floor, black leather couch-style seating and two flat-screen televisions. 2. The Snowboarder This shred-ready Ford Transit is modified with a custom boot dryer, snowboard rack, tuning bench and portable DJ booth to make snowboarding even more fun for its riders. “It’s an absolute dream of a creative hub that we can do anything out of,” says So-Gnar CEO Pat Milbery. 3. The Artist The first Ford Transit buyer in the United States, ZL Feng, is an art professor and skilled artist who uses his van to transport his art to museums, galleries, art shows and art buyers’ homes. 4. The Coffee Shop What better way to bring the people coffee than with a stylish mobile coffee shop. The Grateful Grail mobile coffee shop cruises around Baltimore, visiting local music festivals and events. Brothers and Grateful Grail owners Brian and David Seward customized the van themselves.

SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Business/ INTERVIEW

We need to be at ports, increase man In this no holds bared interview with select journalists at the Orlands Residence, Onne Port MultiCenter (OPMC), Onne Oil &Gas Free Zone, Onne, Rivers State, the Director General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Paul Angya, laments that the agency’s fight against influx of substandard products into the country is hampered by its absence in the seaports and inadequate manpower. PAUL OGBUOKIRI brings you the excerpts: The Ministry of Industry, Trade and investment is holding a retreat for officials of the ministry in Onne, Rivers State. Why the retreat? The Ministerial retreat was to review the policy direction of the ministry in terms of what he wants to achieve and to make sure that all the departments’ key into the overall ministerial vision, of which the ministry is pivotal to the national renaissance. The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment is pivotal to the government’s policy of economic diversification. So the purpose of the retreat is to coordinate and harmonise the efforts of the parastatals with a focus on service delivery. You will understand that the point has been made not by me but by every other person including the Permanent Secretary that standards are key to all commercial agreements and transactions relating to trade and commerce and so the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), becomes very important in the ministry’s vision of improving Nigeria’s products for exports as revenue derivation from exports as alternative to oil because everybody who wants to trade wants to deal with products of standards and quality. So the agency is key in trade projections between individuals, corporations, or between nations because standards are key and very important. Talking about standards, what new programmes is SON coming up with to halt the influx of substandard goods into the country? Standards have been there but recently we have been faced with particular challenges, especially in the drive for finding alternative to crude oil. The country is looking at agriculture and agro-allied products in order to diversify the economy because as you all know, manufacturing is at its lowest ebb, being on a decline because of the influx of cheap and substandard products, which have been pivotal but now it is more severe with the issue of foreign exchange. Manufacturing is therefore low and when we talk about alternatives to oil, we are not looking at manufacturing but our strength is in agriculture and agro-allied products but then, recently we had issues with the beans that was rejected by the European Union and sundry other agro-allied products. So what we have done lately during my time is to develop standards. First and foremost we identified priority products and those are agric and agro-allied products. We identified them looking at products like beans, rice, cocoa, melon, about 10 of them and we developed

Angya

standards and codes of practice for these products, from farm to table, from soil preparation, soil composition, what kinds of pesticide, even fumigation , seed improvement, harvesting, packaging storage, and labeling etc. All these were developed in terms of codes of practice because sometimes, these products are rejected not because of the quality the product has but because of the pesticides and addictives that are used, the kinds of pesticides used, how do they store the products? Etc. Sometimes there are issues of rotten products. So the new standards cover the food chain. So we developed codes of practice to guide the farmers, the producers of these products that are of high priority to Nigeria so that we can deliver quality and affordable export products to the international community. We have also strengthened our capacity

for laboratory testing and certification of these products. The situation we have is that these products are not tested in the countries of export; it is only when they get to the country of import that they are tested and we do not have control over that because we do not have much of the facilities to do testing in Nigeria. What are the facilities? These are what we call quality infrastructure. The testing laboratory is one of the major components of the National Quality Infrastructure. So when you have accredited laboratories, you can have these products tested and certified using the parameters and standards of the importing country. There are only two of such laboratories in Nigeria, SON has one and the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has one for testing food products. We are also currently developing a large laboratory

complex at Ogba, Lagos, which is over 85 per cent completed. When it is fully completed and furnished, we will be able to test the standard parameter of all foods and food products so that the facilities would be available for products coming from Nigeria. We have also conducted trainings. Our members of staff have been trained over the last two months in these codes of practice and agricultural practices. Our staffs are also being trained on Small and Medium Scale Entreprises (SMEs) and farmers on these codes of practice and we expect to continuously train produce dealers and farmers in additives, soil composition and soil testing. The traders are also trained in storage, fumigation warehousing and preservation of these food products so that they do not contaminate them. So this is what we have done recently and we expect that when the farmers fully

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016

Business/ INTERVIEW

power to enforce standards â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Angya imbibe the training and handling of these products from the farm to the table, it will reduce the incidences of rejection to boost agricultural exports and therefore attract substantial foreign exchange for the nation as an alternative to crude oil. If you didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t restrict me to agriculture, I will be talking about other incidences where we check the importation of substandard products into the country. You know the consequences of sub-standard products on the national economy and on the people. We also have the issues of e- waste in agriculture because some of these chemicals and pesticides destroy the soil some time we have unacceptable quotient of lead and mercury in the soil so that when you plant, the mercury and lead level in the product becomes unacceptable to the importing countries. So these are all issues our codes of practice and standards are meant to check. We have also recommended to the Federal Government to develop agricultural policies that will account for these challenges that we have identified through our standards review. Generally we are also combating the influx of substandard products and other attendants problems such as unemployment occasioned by the closure of industries, capital flight arising from the importation of products that do not have any value, by so doing we exchange hard currency for valueless products and some of these products are generating a lot of problems in terms of electronic waste, electronic-electrical products, some of them discharge certain chemicals in the environment. All these refrigerators, computers, such products that if you cannot use them, there is nothing you can do about them. Some of them discharge mercury into the environment and all kinds of challenges associated with the importation of substandard products. We are doing our best but we are facing major challenges. You have been involving some trade associations in combating these challenges. How successful has this been? You see, we have a philosophy, when the person most affected understands the problem, ties it to the issue at hand and identifies it as his own; the battle is half won because he appreciates it and can help you solve it. So wielding the big stick alone does not always work. Even if we have the whole of the Nigerian Army working for us, it will not be a piece of cake having to compel people to do the right thing not to talk of when we are handicapped. So as the first step, we have decided to engage the various interest groups in the critical sectors, which are identified by way of associations, market associations of particular products, what we call in the local parlance; lines of trade such as those in the steel sector, you have electrical-electronics, you have telephones, tiles dealers, block molders, you have chemical and equipment dealers and medicine dealers etc. We sat down with them and explained the consequences of dealing in substandard products. We also engaged the critical stakeholders in the maritime industry, who are actually involved in the business of bringing imports into the country and because we have understood that more than 90 per cent of these products are imported through the maritime industry because they are the agents that facilitate the imports and exports, so to tackle the problem from an all-inclusive perspective, it was important to engage them even before getting to the end users of these products. So we engaged them but I am glad to say that the result has been positive. In all the engagements, we have not had any case of recalcitrance; they have always appeared to be committed to the gospel we have been preaching. They have pledged co-

operation. I believe that God willing, the nation will soon begin to see the positive impact of the critical stakeholders. We are actually encouraging them to regulate themselves first because self-regulation is one potent tool in quality assurance. You said sometime ago about marching orders from the Minister to clampdown on any importer, who fails to comply with the deadline on EPCC. What is the update now? That is one of the issues I said are very encouraging. Within few months, from the time we gave that deadline, we are supposed to shut that platform on July 25, 2016, we gave them three months and I am glad to say that within one month, there is an appreciable engagement with us. They have been engaging with us in anticipation of when we will shut the EPCC platform, through which they have been avoiding the quality assurance of SON. We are on track and we are engaging them by way of meetings, interactions, sensitization and process of training and we expected that after the deadline we gave, we will shut that platform and anybody who is not in line, we then isolate him and deal with him accordingly. But definitely, we are not going back on the deadline. We still have two months but I see that we will not have any difficulty because there is a level of acceptance of our guidelines and instructions. Before now SON was trying to designate some seaports for some categories of imported products. Is that still in force? The new SON Act 14 of 2015 gives the agency the power through the Minister to designate certain seaports or land borders as entry points for some specified products. This is with a view to assisting us to regulate certain products that are identified as life-threatening and given our personnel or capacity to spread across the whole country, it will be a lot easier if we designate that certain products must come through certain ports or land borders. It serves three purposes. First, any such designated product coming through some other sources will be assumed to not being genuine goods. From the beginning once it is not coming through the designated source, there is a presumption of wrong doing and so we deal with such a case. Secondly, it enables us to track such goods at the point of entry, given our personnel challenges and also in terms of paying relevant government charges, the law permits us to do that. But this has not been implemented, mind you the law was passed just last year and the government is still new. You also know that we are grappling with the challenges of trying to bring these issues of substandard products under control because the implementation of that provision is one of the strategies we are requesting the government of and of course, we must get governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approval or directive though the law provides for it before we begin to implement it. We are also discussing with the Ministry and relevant agencies on the implementation of that provision of the law. This is one of the strategies through which we want to stop the importation of these substandard goods. The Federal Government is also talking about diversifying the economy and I know that the solid mineral sector comes to mind. Are you thinking along this line too? Yes definitely. Let me tell you

that we have standards for virtually everything. I spoke about agric products because we have challenges with the quality of such products going out and so we needed to review existing standards and bring them down to the standards our local producers understand, so ofcourse we have standards for mineral exploration and expectations. There are available standards, when we get to the solid mineral it becomes an issue. It is the same issues of exploitation and processing just the same as in agriculture. The Federal Government directed SON and a few other agencies to leave the seaports in 2013 and stakeholders actually believe that this has worsened the influx of sub-standard goods. Is anything being done to reverse this? After much evaluation, I found out that we have two categories of challenges. One is that of strategic positioning and that is the issue of the ports because the seaports are the biggest entry points of products into the country and they are also the most strategic entry points where you can check the quality of products coming into Nigeria and the agency is also allowed by law to operate at the seaports but the last government in its wisdom decided to expel SON and the reason they gave was that the processing of cargo at the seaports was being hampered by the regulatory agencies and so the need for quick turnaround of ships was seen to override quality at that time. The consequences of that action is what we are seeing now where the country is over-flooded like a running sea with substandard products. Consequently, industries have shutdown, there are job losses, capital flight arising from importation of sub-standard products that have no value etc. In view of these consequences, I think those reasons are no longer tenable additionally by 2016, the operating environment has changed. Processing of cargo has gone digital, online and so there is no reason to say that SON will hamper the clearance of products because apart from when Customs physically evaluate the imports for tariffs, SON can also take a cursory look at the products and if on the face value the product appears not to be good, it can be lifted out of the port for proper quality evaluation. So every other thing is done online, offsite. The argument that SON will slow down clearance process is therefore no longer tenable. Even if it were, the attendant economic issues that have trailed its expulsion from the ports far outweigh the trade consideration. What is the purpose of trade? Trade is not an end in itself, it is for the

Angya

benefit and edification of the society, so if trade ultimately kills people, then it is a bad trade because trade should bring prosperity and happiness to the people but the trade we are doing now is killing us physically and metaphorically. So I think it is high time the government reviewed that policy so that we can return to the ports and reverse the trend of massive influx of cheap and substandard products into the country that have harmed our health, economy and even agriculture that is hampered by environmental degradation. The second challenge is personnel, insufficient manpower because after you shut us out of the country and you expect us to go round the country and enforce quality and standards, what is the number of personnel that we have to do this job? The whole staff strength of SON is about 1,600 as we speak today and we are expected to deliver quality to 170 million Nigerians and still counting in a geographical region of over 5,000 square kilometers. Officially the Nigeria Customs Service has identified about 400 land borders and for both efficiency and security reasons, you cannot have one man only manning a border post, you need at least five people, where everything is normal and digitalized so we need about 2,000 people just to man the borders alone. Then the seaports and we have 36 offices in 36 states of the federation you need 20-30 workers for a state from the head of the office to chemicals, textiles, foods and engineering etc so that they check the different sectors where we work. So we have a staff strength that is grossly inadequate. How many staff will be adequate? I think about 10, 000 members of staff will give us a good platform to operate.

Business

Paul Ogbuokiri t is no longer news that Orland Invest, the parent company of Intels Logistics Limited, is the largest and fastest growing logistic base in the world, with over 150 companies in the Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Free Zone (OGFZ), Onne Port Complex. It is equally not news that the company, which is 85 per cent Nigerian owned, and which prides itself as the hub of oil and gas business in the Gulf of Guinea, has the first of its kind conducive working environment (oil and gas free zone) in Africa; hence it is home for nearly all the oil majors in Nigeria, including oil servicing companies. However, what is news is that the management of Nigeria’s foremost multibillion dollar oil and gas logistic facility, are able to survive in the volatile Nigeria’s Niger-Delta (even at the peak of militancy, kidnapping and hostage taking in the region), because it developed a template for maintaining a very cordial relationship with it host communities. With two recent host communities (Etao and Sime in Eleme Kingdom), added to the 18 it had been working with since inception in 1978.79, when it acquired the abandoned Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Onne Port facility, Intels, with the support and its appreciative host communities, has become the hallmark of Nigeria oil and gas exploration, grossing investment of over $60 billion, proving logistic support to over 150 companies that are fully resident in the facility, and as well providing over 25,000 Nigerians employment. According to the Deputy General Manager, Government and Public Affairs, Orland Invest, Mr. David Alagoa, the company developed and implements a second to non-community relations template, called Integrated Participatory Approach (IPA), which made the company and her host communities, regard the facility as theirs in which they have stake in. He said: “When the company started operation at the port over 35 years ago, as a small company it was dealing with Kings and Chiefs of the host communities (the two key host communities were and remain Ogu and Onne), but as it grew bigger, it had to change the approach and fully engaged the people through IPA. Alagoa, who disclosed that the focus areas of IPA, are; employment, empowerment and projects; he noted that decisions on what to be provided for the communities were normally reached mutually: “We agree together on what to

SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Intels CSR template sustains $60bn investments in OGFZ lProvides 25,000 jobslEmpowers women do, the type of project, the cost and duration of the project. We can disagree, debate and argue but at the end of the day whatever project is undertaken is mutually agreed,” he stressed. Sunday Telegraph correspondent who visited the two host communities last weekend; observed Intels Logostics, which comprises of the Federal Lighter Terminal and Federal Ocean Terminal, Onne; Warri Terminal, Calabar and Eko Support terminal in Lagos; has upgraded the status the two main host communities to that of rapidly developing sub-urban cities. Alagoa said that the company is not only building infrastructural projects for its host communities, it is also training youths from the host communities in specialized skills to either work in the facility or be self employed or work any other place of their choice. “We also support the youth in many more ways by way of building a centre for them where they gather hold seminar on how to be useful to themselves and the society. “Intels also supports tradition and also promotes inter-communal harmony. One of such key interventions is the Amayanabo of Ogu’s palace and civic centre which is the symbol of unity of the community. We also something like that in Warri, Delta State, but whatever we do for a community must meet the need of the people. We don’t throw projects at them. “We have not only built a sporting facility at Ogu, but we have sponsored some clubs which have won some national laurels in the past. Every year we take 50 graduates from the immediate host communities and train them, even as we have 191 students presently enjoying our full scholarship training,” he said. He also disclosed that the company spends N45 million annually on scholarships - N50, 000 to secondary school students, and N250, 000 is given annually to a university student respectively. He added that by 2013, the company spent a whopping sum of N161, 775,000 on scholarships for the indigenes of the host communities. Meanwhile, the Intels Integrated Mobile Clinic operated in conjunction with the Rivers State Government Health Management Board; providers free primary health services

(diagnoses, treatment and drugs), to over 85 people from the host communities (including women and children) daily. Sunday Telegraph learnt that there is no family in Ogu and Onne that does not have one person working in the complex; this is even as the Community Relation Officers are always on ground to celebrate social events in the communities, including very small events as wedding ceremonies. Alagoa described the company’s relationship with its host communities thus: “Whatever we believe is good enough for the company is exactly what we give to our host communi-

ties. The quality of roads in the complex, which were constructed to last for 100 years, is what we do for our host communities.” Meanwhile, one of the most outstanding hallmarks of Intels extra-ordinary Corporate Social Responsibility projects is the Women Empowerment Project Scheme Synergy (WEPSS), which according the Head of Administration of the centre, Mrs. Dorcas Ekong, WEPSS is exclusively for the purpose of empowering women from the host communities who have limited literacy. The WEPSS have up to date modern cloth sowing equipment, even as the

coveralls produced by the centre is providing for the needs of the OGFZ, and is also ready for the export market, as its products according Ekong can compete with any across the world. She also said that the ladies who were drawn from the host communities are put in training in industrial sowing by experts for four months, after that, they are ready for work. All the initial graduates from the training centre were all absorbed by the centre and have produced over 40,000 coveralls since 2014 when the facility commenced operation. Ekong further said that as more trainees continue to

be turned out by the centre, those who cannot be absorbed will be left to go into private practice. Sunday Telegraph learnt that of all the big companies operating in the country’s oil and gas sector in Rivers State and which use the key East-West road, they were approached by the state governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, to donate to a fund raising for N3 billion required to fix the deplorable portion of the road, Intels single-handedly donated N1 billion for the rehabilitation of the road. Work was in progress last weekend. But sadly enough, till date only Intels donated to the project.

Some women making cloths at the Women Empowerment Projects Scheme Synergy

Int’l CyberSecurity Conference holds in Nigeria

n international Information Security Conference, named Ngsecure 2016, is billed to take place at Four Point Hotel, Lagos in July this year. The conference will set the pace in understanding and tackling CyberSecurity in Nigeria and across the globe. In today’s global village there is the need to address issues of security in the cyberspace holistically. Conference Director Kayode Eyinade, said that the new and innovative surveillance and monitoring systems have become very imperative with the increasing sophistication of criminal and terrorist acts. He added that globally,

next to terrorism, socio-economic wise, CyberSecurity challenges pose the next major threat to humanity. Nigeria is strategic to the CyberSecurity campaign, being the largest internet user in Africa. He noted that out of the estimated 3.5 billion internet users in the world, Nigeria records 67,101,452 million in a population of more than 170 million, which is about 37 per cent internet penetration. The non-existence of a national policy on information security or even the guidelines on monitoring and censoring internet content etc. makes CyberSecurity a daunting task, he said.

Sunday Telegraph learnt that the InfoSecurityNigeria Conference (NgSecure) 2016 will bring to the table all security issues that will be highlighted, discussed and dissected by thoughtful leaders and professional players in the field of ICT, Telecommunication, Financial Services, Civil Services, National Security, Law Enforcement Agencies, Judiciary, and the Legislature. Eyinade further said that security, money laundering, data breaches, electronic fraud, cyber laws and compliance legislation, social media security, national identity and privacy issues in today’s changing security landscape will be

combed and solutions proffered. Discussants and special guests include: the Minister of Information and Culture, Mr. Lai Mohammed; the Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase; Prof. Femi Odekunle, member, Presidential Advisory Committee against Corruption; Professor Olumide Longe, a cybersecurity expert and Fulbright scholar. Many international CyberSecurity experts are also on the bill. The conference chair is the renowned politicaleconomist Prof. Pat Utomi, the co-founder of the Lagos Business School and Founder of Centre for Values and Leadership.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, 29 MAY 2016

YtD Return Surges to 0.91% T

he bullish sentiments in the Nigerian equities market was sustained in the week, as the NSE All Share Index advanced by 6.59% WoW. On the back of the recent bullish run, the Year-to-Date (YtD) return for the market (+0.91%) turned positive for the first time in 2016. Also, there were fifty five (55) advancers and twenty one (21) decliners, with the volume and value of transactions trimming by 4.41% and 12.50% respectively Week-on-Week (WoW). DNMEYER emerged as the top gainer in the week, advancing by 28.77% WoW to close at NGN0.94. The counter was trailed by OANDO (25.00%), NAHCO (23.62%), DIAMONDBNK (23.04%) and FCMB (23.02%). Conversely, LEARNAFRCA (-10.59%), UNIONDICON (-9.87%), UPL (-9.61%), GLAXOSMITH (-8.59%) and AGLEVENT (-8.00%) populated the laggards’ chart. Following the conclusion of the third Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting of 2016, the MPC voted to retain the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), Cash Reserve and Liquidity ratios at 12%, 22.5%, and 30% accordingly, the asymmetric corridor was also maintained at +200bps & -500bps. However, the most consequential outcome from the meeting was the mandate to the Central Bank of Nigeria to explore ways of introducing greater flexibility in the management of the FX market. Succeeding the contraction (-0.36%) in the nation’s GDP growth in Q1 2016, we anticipate that increased accommodative policies will be implemented, in order to stimulate domestic growth in the medium to long term. Against this backdrop, we do not expect a hike in the MPR in the near term, which may result in a moderation of the yield environment. This report reviews events in the current week, with emphasis on different segments of the financial market, while presenting our expectations for the coming week. Fixed Income: Buy Sentiments Pervades Bond Instruments Following increased system liquidity (+62.56% WoW), buoyed by an OMO repayment (NGN83.81bn) in the week, the average NIBOR pared by 0.93% WoW, to settle at 10.94%. Similarly, the OBB and OVN rates declined by 3.67% and 3.42% respectively, with the average money market rate settling at 5.17% (-3.55%) for the week ended. The bearish sentiments which had hitherto pervaded the Treasury bills market, moderated in the week, as yields pared across all instruments save for the 2M tenor (+0.23%). Following this development, the average yield across T-bill instruments trimmed to 9.28% (-0.36%) as at 26th of May, 2016. Buy sentiments also pervaded the Treasury bonds market in the week, which we attribute to the MPC’s decision to maintain the MPR at 12%, contrary to market expectations of an increase, given the hiking inflation rate (13.77% as at April 2016). Consequently, the average bond yield declined by 90bps WoW to settle at 12.55%. The Naira weakened against the US Dollar at the interbank market this week, depreciating by 0.77% WoW to settle at a mid-price of NGN198.84/USD. The local currency also weakened at the parallel market, exchanging at NGN352/USD (-0.57%) as at the last trading day of the week. Agric. Sector: No Decliner in the Week The strong bullish sentiments that characterized the Nigerian Equities market during the week, also positively impacted the Agric Sector, resulting in a +1.30% WoW (+3.72% YtD) return, as measured by our MERI-AGRIC Index. Three counters recorded positive week-on-week move-

YtD Return Surges to 0.91% nies (particularly pertaining to the cost of inputs), which has contributed in part to the not too impressive performance scorecards released in recent times. Based on the foregoing, we still advise investors to continue to trade with caution.

ments, while all others traded flat. LIVESTOCK, PRESCO and OKOMUOIL were the only advancers in the sector, with respective WoW gains of 18.75%, 2.21% and 0.03% to settle at NGN1.14, NGN36.50 and NGN29.02. On the other side, ELLAHLAKES and FTNCOCOA maintained their prior week’s closing prices of NGN4.26 and NGN0.50 in that order. We remain optimistic that the sector will sustain this positive trend over the short to medium term, given its relevance to the current administration’s economic diversification plans. Banking sector: Advances on the Back of MPC Decisions The banking sector gained strongly in the week, as investors factored in the impact of a flexible exchange rate system on the banking sector into the pricing of the sector’s stocks. Consequently, the sector, as measured by our MERI-BNK index, advanced by 6.40% to peg the YtD returns at 11.44%. All sector stocks advanced during the week, with DIAMONDBNK leading the way after advancing by 23.04%. The ticker was followed by FCMB, ETI, UNITYBNK, and STANBIC, which recorded respective gains of 23.02%, 19.38%, 19.23%, and 17.99% Week-on-Week (WoW). We are of the opinion that the gains are reaching a zenith, and as such advise investors to consider stocks still trading well below fundamental worth when considering entering this bull market. Consumer Goods: Sector Performance remains upbeat In line with general market mood, the sector advanced by 12.89% WtD to peg YtD return at -2.03%, as measured by MERI-CMG index. Sector breadth (1.67x) signaled the direction of trading in the week, with ten (10) stocks recording gains as against six (6) stocks which declined. Other counters

traded flat during the week. GUINNESS consolidated on the prior week’s gains, advancing by 15.47% WoW to champion the gainers’ chart for the week. DANGSUGAR, NB, TIGERBRANDS, HONYFLOUR, VITAFOAM, NESTLE,CHAMPION, UNILEVER and NASCON trailed with respective WoW gains of 13.97%, 12.70%, 10.63%, 9.41%, 8.62%, 7.12%, 3.57%, 3.23%, and 1.20%. On the reverse side, UNIONDICON, PZ , CADBURY, FLOURMILL, 7UP and INTBREW recorded share price declines of 9.87%, 5.62%, 2.26%, 2.09%, 1.77% and 0.65% in that order. The sector index has appreciated WoW over the past 3 consecutive weeks, in line with the general market mood during the period. However, we advise value seeking investors to trade with caution, as we expect some investors to take profit on counters that have recorded substantial price gains in recent weeks. Health Sector: YtD return pegs at 39.30% Despite the upbeat mood in the equities market, the sector remained downbeat as the sector index pared by 8.22% WoW to drag the YtD return to -39.30%, as measured by our MERI-HLTH index. The sector breadth pegged at 0.67x, implying that two (2) stocks recorded share price appreciations while three (3) stocks declined in the week. MAYBAKER and FIDSON were the only gainers for the week, having gained 13.73% and 6.00%% WoW to drive their respective share prices to NGN1.16 and NGN2.12. Conversely, GLAXOSMITH (-8.59%), PHARMADEKO (-4.62%) and NEIMETH (-2.11%) were the laggards, with the respective share prices settling at NGN20.50, NGN1.86 and NGN0.93. The cautious trading witnessed on the sector counters over the past few weeks may be attributed to concerns regarding the FX constraint of the sector’s compa-

Industrial Sector: Positive Momentum Subsists The industrial goods sector consolidated on the prior week’s positive return, with the NSEIND Index advancing by 5.22% WtD to peg the YtD return at -4.96%. There were four (4) advancers and two (2) decliners in the week to peg the sector breadth at 2.00x. Following a 28.77% WoW price appreciation, DNMEYER emerged the sector’s top gainer. WAPCO (+7.25%), ASHAKACEM (4.98%) and DANGCEM (+4.81%) also featured on the gainers’ chart in the week. Conversely, CAP and PORTPAINT populated the laggards’ table, after the respective counters pared by 5.00% and 4.85% to close at NGN38.00 and NGN1.96 accordingly. We expect investors’ perception towards the building materials segment to continue to improve as we proceed further into the year, given the expectation of increased funds disbursements towards infrastructure development by the Federal government. Insurance Sector: Positivity Subsist on Sector Stocks The insurance sector recorded a positive return in the week, as the NSEINS10 index advanced by 3.46% WoW to further trim the sector’s YtD return to -4.89%. Four (4) counters recorded price appreciations in the week, while all other counters traded flat. MANSARD emerged the top gainer in the week, after advancing by 9.95% WoW to close at NGN2.32. The counter was trailed by CONTINSURE, AIICO and NEM, after the respective counters appreciated by 6.80%, 6.58% and 2.50% to close at NGN1.10, NGN0.81 and NGN0.82 accordingly. Regency Alliance Plc (REGALINS) notified that NAICOM has approved the appointment of new board of directors to manage the company, effective from 1st of January, 2016. In the coming week, we expect the general market mood to also dictate the sectors performance. Oil & Gas Sector: NSEOILG5 Index Surged 1.61% WoW Positive investor sentiments swept through the sector in the week, as the NSEOILG5 index advanced by 1.61% WoW to peg the YtD return at -3.45%. Four (4) counters advanced as against two (2) decliners during the week to peg the sector’s breadth at 2.00x. OANDO led the gainers’ list, having advanced by 25.00% WoW to settle at NGN7.50 for the week. The counter was trailed by SEPLAT (+3.72%), ETERNA (+3.18%) and TOTAL (+0.59%). Contrarily, MOBIL (-5.00%) and FO (-3.19%) featured on the decliners’ table. Brent crude reached its year high price this week (USD50pb) following an unexpected supply drop. This was in part due to recent pipeline vandalism in the Niger-Delta region of Nigeria which persisted in the week, with Niger Delta’s Avengers taking responsibility for the attack on the new Chevron’s Escravos terminal. We expect the current momentum to be sustained in the coming week, provided there are no negative news inflows that can sway current investor sentiments. However, we advise investors to temper their optimism with caution, as pocket of profit taking may pervade counters that recorded substantial gains recently.

SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

NEWS

HYPREP must clean-up Ogoni spill thoroughly Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

ormer Commissioner of Health in Rivers State, Dr. Sampson Parker has charged the Hydro Carbon Pollution Restoration Project (HYPREP), the specialised agency mandated to carry out the Ogoni cleanup exercise, to do a thorough job in the interest of the general well-being of Ogoni indigenes. HYPREP was anchored on a 2012 report by the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) on the clean-up of Ogoni land, following decades of environmental degradation. This report had recommended the establishment of an organisation or unit to oversee and facilitate the remediation process. HYPREP was set up under the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. But Parker in lending his voice to the proposed clean-up exercise, expected to kick off June 2016,said stakeholders must see the clean-up as sacrosanct to the restoration of habitable environment for the people of the region. Dr Parker, who was instrumental to the containing of Ebola virus in Rivers state in 2014, noted that the clean -up exercise was important in many respects. He said: “The Ogoni

clean-up exercise is important in many respects. A healthy environment is one of the key requirements for the health of a people, because the level and distribution of health of a population is intrinsically linked to the environment on a continuous basis, in terms of the interactions with the biological and physical factors in the environment. “For instance, air quality impacts on nutrition through possible contamination of water, food and other micronutrients, as well as possible direct impact on livelihood such as the economic activity of the population, namely fishing, agriculture and others. “For the people of Rivers State, water and land are closely linked to their livelihood and because of this pollution in any form it constrains and impacts on our livelihood. Therefore, it impacts on our health and sustainable growth” While this clean-up exercise is a vital requirement, we must be able to push the envelope from a reactive occasional intervention, as we are currently having. He argued that the cleanup exercise must be made a proactive, continuous sustainable partnership between all stakeholders, both from the public, private and community leadership.

No work no pay, says Fayose Sulaiman Salawudeen

Ado-Ekiti

kiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has vowed not to pay workers for the period spent on strike, noting embarking on strike was not the solution to the problem of poor resources available to the state government. He stated this while featuring on a live interview programme on radio and television stations in AdoEkiti. The governor noted the state was handicapped by the continuous slide in statutory allocations coming to the state and the general economic recession in the country. Said he: “For the April allocation shared in May, we got N752 million, while our wage bill is N2.6 billion monthly. The previous month we got a little over N1 billion and that has been

the trend since last year. We have had to combine two monthly allocations to be able to pay a month salary, but since the beginning of this year, it is that three allocations are not even enough to pay a month salary. “When you compare what we got from January to May, 2015 and what we got in the same period this year, we have a shortfall of over N6 billion. Some are talking about our internally-generated revenue, there is nothing to hide. All the records are there for all to see and I have always told labour leaders to go and verify. The highest we have recorded is N302 million a month. There was a month we had N181 million. “Since I assumed office, every month the allocation paper comes from Abuja, a committee made up of labour leaders and other stakeholders has been

sharing whatever comes among all sectors. If I am not hiding anything from labour leaders and workers, I expect them to understand. I feel their pain, but there is limit to what I can do in this type of situation. “Workers at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital under the auspices of JOHESU have written that they are not on strike and people like will be paid from what came from Abuja. Since I have no power to stop workers from going on strike, I wish them well, but we need to understand what the situation is like. They cannot say that I have not consistently been alerting Nigerians since late last year that a time like this is coming. In fact, the next allocation may be smaller than the one we are complaining about now,” he stated. Governor Fayose said

the economic situation in the state was worsened by the indiscriminate borrowing the Kayode Fayemi administration embarked upon. His words: “The N25 billion they raised from the capital market, the nearly N30 billion commercial loans, the UBEC, water scheme, fertilizer and other loans they incurred, led to the deduction of about N1 billion from our allocations monthly. Where were the labour and their leaders when the last government was borrowing all these monies? I reiterate that no administration should be allowed to borrow beyond its tenure,” he added. On the staff audit conducted by the government last year, he stated that 315 ghost workers were detected through the exercise and that the report would soon be made public.

We’ll never betray Nigeria – Buhari Muhammad Kabir KANO

resident Muhammadu Buhari has reassured Nigerians that he will never waiver from his ambition of making the country once more great, this is even as the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, said that his government’s arrival

saved the country from total collapse both economically and socio-culturally. Mohammed, alongside five other ministers, Interior, General Abdurahaman Dambazau (rtd); Budget and Planning, Zainab Shamsunna; Bawa Buwari, Minister of State, Solid Minerals; Aisha Abubakar, Trade and Investments, and Suleiman Adamu of

Water Resources, said this in Kano during the Federal Government Town Hall meeting on Friday. The Information Minister explained that APC and Buhari campaigned on three major areas of security, fighting corruption and economic wellbeing and so far Nigerians in just one year can testify to the fact that the journey has been

excellent and the government is seriously on course. He noted that today the Buhari administration is greatly winning the war on insecurity and the corrupt can no longer flaunt their ill-gotten wealth against the detriment of the nation and appealed to the people that what is now required is extreme patience with the government.

The grief in IDP camp Nnenne Ukamaka Umeh

he Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp is certainly not prison or detention camp, but sadly the lives of many of the occupants are not quite different than that of the prisoners.The IDPs who certainly left their places where destruction of lives and properties forcibly made them fleeing to the safe areas but the mayhem continues to follow them. My visit to one of the Borno IDP camps, is one that filled my heart with so much pity, there are uncountable displaced persons in the camp, these are people from different local government of the state that are under full or partial Boko haram control. The people (victims) typically fled their homes without taking anything; they have nothing but hope and the will to survive. The livening insurgency has made IDPs camp global in the north-east geo-political zone, despite the uncultivable hardships experiencing by their overwhelming majority who unwantedly inhabit the camp as accommodation. In Borno state, majority of the displaced leave in dilemma, struggling for food, shelter and other required necessities to serve their purposive individual needs, thus making some to be prostitutes, arm robbery and the barbaric turning to committing suicide. However, reports showcased that the number of the internally displaced persons around the globe have increase to a highly capacity in the history. The issue of IDPs has lured minds of the Nigerian government, the world super power countries, United Nations agencies and other non-governmental organizations which they have been able to initiate some agencies to ensure the welfare of the displaced as well as pleasing their survival. Despite the agency’s contributions, the case of the IDPs is still so terrible, such that one cannot be certain about whether or not they may leave in peace as they did some years before the insurgents. Boko haram has turned so many lives miserable to the extent

some have wished for death to come. A man caught my attentionwhen I saw him seating alone shouting, I asked some group of guys around, what is the matter with him? That ever since he came to the camp he has lamenting and praying for death to come, I felt pity on him, and guy decided to tell me the old man’s story. That he is one of the well-known business men who deal with building materials in his home town Gwoza, that always advice people to work hard so that you will never be poor in life. His dreams were got short by boko haram. His shop, money was burnt down, he said he hardly visit the bank, that he has a saved place he keeps his money but the world has taken it away from him. The trauma keeps affecting him that makes him always scream that he wants to die, he has no reason to live again, that he’s regretting why he escaped death at first. The most important thing they complained of is food and shelter, food for them to stay alive and shelter for them to get relaxed and think less about their predicament. Due to lack of food, some end up suffering from mal-nutrition and at the same time lack proper treatment. They always pray for the betterment of their village so that they can go back and fed for themselves. As observed at the camp, the IDPs are facing a lot from the way they live and feed. They are not satisfied with the food served to them; most of them die due to mal nutrition they complain of uncomfortable sleep because the place they live is as good as no roof on it. They have no source of income because obviously they lack entrepreneurship skills; most of them are farmers before this their present predicament Speaking to many of them in the camp on how they see themselves as an IDP, they expressed their pain by saying how it all happened and how they got to be an IDP today. A man by name IshakuGaladima said he never knew he could become this poor just one night, because he is a big business man in Muchika who earns his living from a provision shop a big one for that matter, that he has hearing so many destruc-

Children playing at the camp

tions and killings but always prayed and hope that they will never remember them. Just one fateful day they came to my village Muchikaanddestroyed everything they laid theirhands on both living and non-living thing, I narrowly escaped but ask me how I did that, I just don’t know, they burnt down my shop, they killed my wife and my two children, because they were at home. Life now has turned me into an IDP, am now in Maiduguri because some soldiers came to our rescue. Looking at the side of the government on if they still care about these people, a representative of SEMA chairman of IDP said they are trying their very best to ensure they don’t totally lack everything they need. That they won’t say they are the only one caring for these, but there are also good citizen who visit them and donate for their well-being too. When asked if they have plans to relocate them back to their place. He answered, saying, sure. The Bama road is now open and safe for travellers, so also some villages too. That the governments are working on making the affected villages to be normal.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, 29 MAY 2016

Iheanacho’s goal nails Mali in France p.55

first an n

iv er sary

NFF to partner late Rashidi Yekini’s Foundation

Yobo: I’m satisfied with my career

p.55

SPORTS

p.55

One year of sports under Buhari nothing to celebrate Dapo Sotuminu

igerian sports in the last one year under the present government of Muhammadu Buhari has been riddled with mixed grill where the negative aspects far outweigh the positive achievements made during the first one year of the president’s four-year tenure. The president’s long delay in the appointment of a Sports Minister, just as it was in other sectors of the country, negatively affected the country’s sports. The striking thing about the appointment made by the president in the sports sector compared with the appointments in the other sectors, was that unlike the other sectors where the best professionals in the various field were appointed ministers, the case of sports was different as the president skipped all the accomplished sports administrators in the country to appoint a transparency crusader as Sports Minister. While the other ministers have settled down to do the real job, the Sports Minister, Solomon Dalung, has been trying to learn the rope on how best to run a sector as wide as the sports ministry. Ahead of the 2015 All Africa Games, the president made his first appointment in sports as he named one of the country’s accomplished sports professionals, Alhassan Yakmut as the Director General of the National Sports Commission. Yakmut soon began to run sports in the country without a supervisory minister, a situation that later backfired. The president, in a bid to ensure that Team Nigeria is well represented at the All Africa Games in Congo, released the sum of N2.9billion for the execution of the event and onward preparation of the country for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. Yakmut, who was rated as one of the country’s best sports experts, used his expertise to help Team Nigeria emerged overall second position behind South Africa. This feat was applauded by the president who was proud that he was the one that appointed Al Hassan Ya k m u t . But this turned s o u r when Ya k m u t

couldn’t give account of the N2.9billion released to him for the two events. The former NSC Director General, who was soon posted to the Niger Delta Ministry as DG, has been passing the bulk whenever he was asked to give account of the money, and he has consistently said that, Nigerians should ask the Sports Minister for such accountability as he handed everything ove to Dalung who is now in the position to tell Nigeria the true situation of the money. Today, with few months to the Rio Olympics, Team Nigeria is yet to commence serious training for the Games. Earlier on, Yakmut had told the Team Nigeria athletes that he had the money that would enable them to commence foreign training tour in October 2015. The Sports Minister was turned back by the president when he was approached to release money for the Olympics with the presidential order that if the N2.9billion released to the ministry in 2015 is not retired, no money would be given for the Olympics. The president has been waiting for months with no response. Dalung’s first major assignment ended up to be lopsided as he jumped into a dead football crisis, mistakenly unearthed it and plunged the nation’s football into a fresh crisis which invariably affected the development of the sport in the country and finally nailed the country’s aspiration of booking a ticket in the 2017 Africa Nations Cup. This was Nigeria’s second consecutive failure to qualify for the Nations Cup. Aside from this, today Nigeria has two factional president of the Nigeria Football Federation in the persons of Amaju Pinnick and Chris Giwa. A federal High Court in Jos gave a controversial ruling that Giwa is the rightful president, but this has been rejected by the Sports Minister and the House Committee on Sports. The Buhari government also saw to the crisis in the Teakwondo Federation. The board impeached the TFN boss, but he was reinstated by the minister against the wish of the board members. The result was Nigeria’s failure to book a place in the Rio 2016 Olympics Teakwondo event after the sports had represented the country in the Games consistent-

ly since Sidney 2000 Olympics. Before the appointment of the Sports Minister, the Buhari government had witnessed the victory of the Nigeria men’s basketball team, D’Tigers in Angola. It was Nigeria’s first ever triumph in the African title, this was in August 2015. Though the basketball team didn’t get any financial support from the presidency, but the Buhari government claimed the glory as one of its numerous achievements in sports. The Emmanuel Amuneke-tutored national Under-17 soccer team won the FIFA World Cup title under the Buhari government on November 9, two days before Solomon Dalung was assigned as Sports Minister. Despite the fact these achievements came before him, Dalung how facilitated the presidential awards for the athletes. As the Golden Eaglets got N2million each, the basketball team was given N600,000 each. The most accomplished thing done by the Muhammadu Buhari administration was the presidential reward for the class of the 1985 Golden Eaglets, who won the FIFA World Cup during his first reign as Head of State. The players couldn’t be rewarded as the Buhari government was overthrown in a military coup. He came back after 31 years to reward the players with N2million each. The players led by the team captain were fulfilled and happy that they eventually got the reward for their efforts while they are alive. This gesture by Buhari received plaudits from Nigerians, as they echoed that the labour of our heroes past did not go in vain. Another minus for the government of Muhammadu Buhari in sports was the non-availability of funds for Team Nigeria athletes in two different sports while they competed in the qualifiers for the Rio Olympics 2016. The table tennis team led by former World Table Tennis player of the Year, Aruna Quadri and seven times Olympian, Segun Toriola, sponsored their trips individually to the Olympic qualifiers. The same situation presented itself in wrestling, as wrestlers were sponsored to the Olympic qualifiers by the Wrestling Federation President, Daniel Igali. In a related de-

velopment a poorly prepared boxing team failed to pick any ticket for the Rio Olympics, this is against the background where boxing is one of Team Nigeria’s medal’s prospect. Majority of the 31 National Sports Associations have not held any national championship in the last one year. Mr. Kunle Solaja, Nigeria’s foremost sports historian told Sunday Telegraph in his reaction to the state of the country’s sports since the inception of the Muhammadu Buhari’s government, that, there has been no mark achievements in sports, except for the fact that, the Nigerian League appears to be taking shape, and table tennis is also coming up. “Outside that, there are no changes from the usual situation. The Olympic preparation is not there and that is not usual as Team Nigeria is always doing the fire-brigade approach. And I am not sure if any Nigerian is expecting any dramatic improvement from what the country put up at London 2012 Olympics where Team Nigeria didn’t win any medal, except ofcourse the Dream Team handled by Samson Siasia who may find themselves in the medal zone looking at the prospect of the team. Otherwise, Nigerian sports in the last one year under president Muhammadu Buhari is nothing to celebrate.

SUNDAY, 29 MAY 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sport

Yekini’s daughters want to know how their father died Dapo Sotuminu

he two daughters of late African Footballer of the Year, Rashidi Yekini, Miss. Rashidat Yemisi and Omoyemi, have declared that they would institute an inquisition into the death of their father. The senior daughter, Rashidat Yemisi, a 21 year old Cinematography undergraduate of the University of Leicester, United Kingdom, stated that, over time, she has been asking her mother to tell her the kind of death that killed her father, but uptil now, she has not been able to tell me anything definite. “Myself and my sister want to know how our father died and the only way is to do an inquisition. We want to know if he was killed or he died a natural death. If he was killed, the culprits must be prosecuted.” Omoyeni, an English undergraduate of the University of Ilorin, in agreement with her sister said, their dream was to turn their father’s mansion in Ibadan to a museum where Nigerians would be coming to see Rashidi Yekini’s legendary trophies and other memorabilia won at both Nigerian and European clubs and international individual awards won as a Super Eagles legend. She lamented that, this dream has been thwarted by her father’s family members who carted away all his trophies, important photo portraits of international awards presentations in clubs and national team, soccer boots, jerseys and other important properties which would have made up the items for the museum. She confirmed that, one of the photo portraits which was in Yekini’s living room when he was alive, where he was presented with a trophy as the highest goal scorer in one the numerous African Nations Cup he played by world soccer legend, Pele, was the photo portrait placed on the table for the condolence register at his hometown, Ira in Kwara state during his funeral. She stressed that, this was a clear evidence that her father’s family members were the ones who carted everything away, while making a false claim that he gave his prized possession during his alleged crisis period. Omoyemi, who stayed in the Ibadan house with Rashidi Yekini, said that, the claim that her father was mentally ill was false. “He was mentally balanced, my father was okay before his untimely death. The other claim that it was insanity that made him gave the needy large sums of money, was also false, as my father was fond of giving money to the needy and I don’t see anything wrong with that. There was also an allegation that he removed the leather furniture in the living room to the compound and set it ablaze. This is not true, if he had burnt them, there would have been remains of the burnt furniture in the compound, but there was nothing of such there. My father’s lawyer also told us that he had a gun in the house for more than 15 years and there was never a time he harassed anybody with or he shot sporadically into the air to scare anybody. Would somebody who is insane drive his car without committing any traffic offense, he had his hair cut as at when due, observe his Muslim prayers regularly and play football every morning at the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan with the Oyo All Stars.” She also stated that, the news that her grandmother in Ira, Kwara state, was suffering is not true as adequate care had been taken by her father to make sure mama won’t suffer. He bought the six flats in Ira

•Say Yekini was mentally stable •As lawyer alleges late legend was poisoned

Rashidi Yekini’s daughters, Rashidat Yemisi (left) and Omoyemi (right)

for mama in 1994. My grandmother collects rent from four out of the six flats and some boys quarters at the back. With this rent she is more than comfortable. She confessed that, the last time she saw her grandmother was when she visited her alongside her late father in Ira. Rashidi Yekini’s personal lawyer disclosed that, the late African football legend confided in him that, if he was taken away by his family members, he would be killed. And that was exactly what they did to him. He revealed that, Yekini’s family had tried three times to abduct his client but only succeeded the fourth time when he was away on a business trip to Kuwait. “Earlier on when the Oyo State Commissioner for Police gave an order that Yekini should not be forcefully taken from his home in Ibadan, the family members led by his kid sister late Rufia and Yekini’s mother, went to the police commissioner begging that he should allow them to arrest the African legend so as to cure him of his insanity. But the commissioner rejected the application insisting that from a test carried out on Yekini, he was okay. But they succeeded in abducting Rashidi Yekini when I was away in Kuwait. I was away when someone broke the news to me and when I got back I heard on the CNN news that my client was dead. “It is painful that he was killed brutally and from information I gathered, Yekini was taken to some Muslim ‘marabouts’ who shaved his head and chained his

hands and legs. It was these ‘marabouts’ that allegedly gave Rashidi Yekini a poisoned tea. When he drank the tea, he went to sleep and when he woke up, he started vomiting blood before he died. The doctor in the hospital where he was later taken to in Ibadan said Yekini was brought in dead. And when I asked why he gave the family members a death certificate since he didn’t know the cause of death, he revealed that the family begged him to write one so that they would be able to move him to Ira his home town

f o r burial. “Yekini’s kid sister Rufia, now late and his mother after his death later went to the First Bank in Dugbe area of Ibadan, where he had kept his money. When they requested to collect the money, the bank told them that Rashidi had personally cleared his account few weeks back.” Jibril Olarenwaju, said the vicious nature of Rashidi

Yekini’s family members made him at some point to fear for his own life. “My client did not write a will before he died in line with his Muslim belief,” adding that, “Yekini had told me that if he dies he should be buried in Ibadan, but his family buried him in a shabb y site

in Ira and I would have exhumed his body to rebury in Ibadan but this is also against the belief of Muslims. I promise you that Nigerians have not heard the last about Rashidi Yekini’s death,” he said.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, 29 MAY 2016

Sport

Iheanacho’s goal nails Mali in France

Dapo Sotuminu

elechi Iheanacho continued his goal scoring form in Manchester City where he scored 13 goals in the concluded season, as he scored the Super Eagles only goal that nailed the Eagles of Mali in an international friendly played in Rouen, France. The Eagles presented a relatively young Nigerian team gifted with a sense of urgency, purpose and craftsmanship pipped 1-0 in an exciting international friendly. Iheanacho had replaced Iwobi in the 74th minute, in-between two efforts by Umar Aminu. Another substitute, Babatunde Michael, worked out a brilliant pass for the Manchester City forward to slot past the Malian goalie. Six minutes from time, Iheanacho rattled the goalkeeper once again, before left back Kingsley Madu came close with a shot. Forward Odion Ighalo fluffed a hatful of chances in the first half,

but Etebo Oghenekaro, Alex Iwobi and manof-the-match Shehu Abdullahi gave the Eagles legs on the field in a game that, for long periods, flowed from end-to-end. With only goalkeeper Djigui Diarra to beat, Iheanacho Ighalo wasted a golden chance in the 19th minute. There were plenty of great opportunities but Ighalo, debutant Musa Muhammed and Etebo could not get the ball into the Malian net before half time. Just before half time, an error by stand-in skipper Ogenyi Onazi nearly gifted Mali the lead. But the impressive Carl Ikeme covered well. The mobile Musa Muhammed was thwarted after a good pass by the creative Alex Iwobi in the 50th minute. Etebo was then foiled three minutes later before Ighalo wasted another opportunity on the hour mark. Ikeme saved well

NFF to partner late Rashidi Yekini’s Foundation

from a header in the 69th minute, before substitute Kelechi Iheanacho scored Nigeria’s only goal in the 77th minute, only three minutes after coming on. Afterwards, Coach Salisu Yusuf said:“The performance was inspiring and I am happy about the team spirit. Every player fought well on the field. The commitment and determination is there, and we hope to carry this forward.” The Eagles had failed to win a match since beating Niger Republic 4-1 in January and they were kept frustrated by the Alain Giresse’s side in France.

Yobo: I’m satisfied with my career Dapo Sotuminu

ormer Nigeria defender, Joseph Yobo, has expressed his fulfillment with all he achieved as a footballer. The captain of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winning Nigeria team was given a grand exit from professional football by a stellar collection of football stars and legends during his testimonial in Port Harcourt at the weekend. Samuel Eto’o, Sulley Muntari, Stephen Appiah, Lomana Lualua and Laryea Kingston were joined by former Nigeria players Nwankwo Kanu, Austin Okocha, Mutiu Adepoju, Austin Eguavoen and Ben Iroha to celebrate the 101-capped Yobo. The former Everton star expressed his delight with the success of the event claiming inju-

Yobo

Solution to Cross Word Puzzle

ries hindered him from making a curtain call last year. “It feels great. It is a big blessing to be in this position and I’m thankful to God. It is very emotional but I’m very happy. My family is here to see me one more time and that makes me feel good. “Injury had denied me from announcing my final retirement and this is the first time that I’m returning to the play after a year. I’m grateful to David Moyes, Samuel Eto’o and everyone that came to support – they made my day.” Yobo who made his senior international debut against Zambia in a 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifier on March 24, 2001 said he is gratified with what he has achieved, but he was uncertain on what the future holds after football.

he Nigeria Football Federation has declared that it will (NFF) partner the Foundation launched by the children of the late Super Eagles’ goal-king, Rashidi Yekini. This was disclosed at the weekend by NFF First Vice President, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi, who received Yemisi Yekini and her sister, Omoyemi at the Lagos State Football Association office in Lagos. “We will provide a solid base and support for the Foundation, which is a noble objective and deserves commendation. The NFF is truly impressed that you children of late Yekini have come up with this great idea. “Of course, we will commit whatever we can to the Foundation. Yekini remains a Nigeria legend for all time. I advise that you should allow the Foundation

to be run by professionals.” Earlier, the eldest child, Yemisi, who is a student of Cinematography at Leicester University, United Kingdom, had formally informed Akinwunmi of the Foundation, and requested the NFF to help with materials that tell the story of her father’s marvelous contributions to Nigerian football while representing fatherland. These, she said, would be used to set up a Rashidi Yekini Museum in his home in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. Akinwunmi, who is also Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, disclosed that the LSFA/Akinwunmi Charity Foundation would take up payment of the school fees of Omoyemi Yekini, late Yekini’s second daughter, who is studying English at the University if Ilorin, Kwara state.

Enyeama extends Lille contract

ormer Super Eagles goalkeeper, Vincent Enyeama, has signed a two-year extension to his LOSC Lille contract, committing him to the club until 2019. The contract offer is an indication that the 33-year-old will play an important part in new coach Frédéric Antonetti’s plans for a top-four push next season. Antonetti took over from Herve Renard midway through the

Enyeama

2015/16 season and immediately improved the club’s performances, helping them end the season in a unexpected fifth position in the Ligue 1 standings. The Corsican has made it a priority to lock down the services of his key players during the summer and the Nigeria international was one of the first on his list. “Vincent is an exceptional lad both on and off the pitch,” JeanMichel Vandamme, Lille’s joint director general, told Ligue1. com. “Continuing to work with a player of his calibre and a man of his quality is a fantastic thing for the club. He still has a lot of great days ahead of him and he showed once again in the season just past the full extent of his qualities. “He is happy at LOSC and feels at home here. He brings so much to the team through his talent, his frame of mind and his capacity to boost the squad that we couldn’t afford not to extend his deal. Right now it looks like Vincent Enyeama could end his career here at LOSC.”

Uche Okechukwu delighted to reunite with USA 94 teammates

ormer Super Eagles captain, Uche Okechukwu, popularly called ‘the Gentle Giant’ during his active days has expressed his delight as he reunite with USA 94 teammates Mutiu Adepoju, Victor Ikpeba, Austin Eguavoen, Ben Iroha, Jay Jay Okocha and Samson Siasia when they met in Port Harcourt for the Joseph Yobo testimonial.

Okochukwu, who had refused to take part in any of the previous testimonials played in Nigeria and other activities of the Nigeria Football Federation played on the side of the Class of USA 94 Eagles versus a world selected side at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium. He said: “I feel very proud meeting my friends again. It’s been so

long I saw some of them and Yobo’s testimonial is a perfect reunion for us and that reminds me of the USA 94 World Cup.” After hanging up his boots after a brief stint with local club Bayelsa United in the 2008-09 season, Okechukwu said he has been doing very good and very fine except that he does not play football any longer.

NFF suspends FC Taraba matches as NNL kicks-off

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ll matches involving FC Taraba in the Nigeria National League (NNL) have been placed on hold following the inability of the Jalingo side to settle outstanding payments and arrears owed players who featured for the club last season. Secretary of the NNL, Mr.

Lawrence Katken, said until the management of FC Taraba complies with the decision of the 2015 Annual General Assembly of the NFF on payment of backlog of salaries and allowances to players, the club will play no part in the Nigeria league. “Football is governed by

rules and rules are meant to be obeyed. We have no choice but to implement the decision of the Congress. We always have to ensure clubs in the NNL are ready to run because they move to the Premier League from the NNL. It beholves on us to direct them well,” said Katken.

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May 29: Economy worst in years

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Score card of Buhari’s one year change: Are Nigerians happier? (Part 1) INTRODUCTION Late Ronald Reagan had asked American voters a similar question, that is, whether Americans were happier. This was when he was seeking their mandate in the 1980 presidential elections. Reagan was the Republican presidential candidate. He was running against the incumbent president and Democratic candidate, Jimmy Carter. Carter was seeking re-election. But, the odds were heavily stacked against him. America was in deep crisis. Despair, despondency and angst appeared to have supplanted hope and faith. Four years of a Carter presidency had come under intense barrage of scrutiny. America was drifting dangerously. To an unknown precipe. A new leadership was needed. Very badly. Reagan said he was the man ordained to stop the drift and make better things happen again for America. He promised a rebirth, a renaissance. That was how PMB challenged GEJ’s presidential credentials. Many Nigerians said it was anyone but GEJ. They were ready to accept Agege bread label, or Nepa bill, in place of his non available school certificate. Such was the euphoria, the love, the passion, for his presidency. Some Nigerians believed their action was not necessarily to vote in Buhari, but to vote out Jonathan. A clear paradox. Today marks exactly one year that APC’s President Muhammadu Buhari, mounted the throne as Nigeria’s President, after defeating former President Jonathan of the PDP, in what was an historical election. GEJ conceded defeat epochally, calling PMB to congratulate him, even while counting of results was still going on. Not only Nigerians, but the entire international community, were amazed at this uncommon and unprecedented step never before witnessed in Africa, or the black world. A sitting President in Africa’s and Black world’s largest democracy conceding defeat? It was ineffable. But, Nigerians today are thoroughly disappointed by the turn of events. The President and his party, the APC, had promised so much, but so far fulfilled so little. The utopian they promised is only but a mirage. The economy and power sectors are in comatose. The naira is in terribly bad shape, almost twice its exchange rate to the dollar. Inflation is on a steep steady rise. Federal Government statistics say so. The over 240 Chibok girls are still in captivity. The only one found came with a baby. Surprisingly, it was heralded by government with pomp and pageantry as if the entire Chibok girls had been liberated. Unprecedented fuel scarcity, and now a galloping N145 hike in pump price of PMS from N87 when GEJ left. All these have left a bitter taste in the mouth of the average Nigerian. It has been a litany of woes. Wanton killings by Fulani cattle herdsmen, increased cases of kidnappings, Shiites mayhem, Agatu massacre, IPOD suppression, the new Niger Delta Avengers, wanton breach of human rights, disobedience to court orders, sky rocketing of essential commodities and consumables. A bag of rice is now about N20,000, from N9,000. Many families now cook without tomatoes, as one seed now costs between N50 and N100, where it is available at all. People now trek, as against taking taxis, buses and even bikes. The Judiciary is debased. Labour is balkanized. Critical segments of the society are excoriated and emasculated. It is almost treason to critique PMB, who is being deified

Nigerian Project

the front mats. Looters of the economy are garlanded with national honours, highfalutin chieftaincy titles (usually, one, never two) and recognition. Ekueme I, Ugbasi I, Ughui I, etc. Intelligent and honest Nigerians are marooned in a vast wave of incompetence and mediocrity. Nepotism, ethnicism, cronyism, tribalism, discrimination, ethno-religious and mutual suspicion, reign supreme. This notion was theorized by US writer, P. J. san ofr O'Rourke, when he said: ”No drug, not even mike.ozekhome@yahoo.com 08094777755 (sms only) alcohol, causes the fundamental ills of society. If we're looking for sources of our troubles, we shouldn't test people for drugs, we should and canonized as a god by his acolytes. This all, many of those shouting ‘change’ and test them for stupidity, ignorance, greed, and is an anathema in a constitutional democ- ‘corruption’ today, were all in the PDP op- love of power.” These are the sources of our racy, where plurality of voices, ideas and position party, holding very exalted offices misery as a nation. robust criticism, lead to better performance. for years, before decamping only recently to There is a feeling of mass discontent and the ruling party. How come these persons AND THIS despondency across the land. The President are not investigated and prosecuted. Or does The truth is that 70% of Nigerians are ilknows that Nigerians were better off before carpet-crossing to the ruling party make one literates or semi-illiterates. Some know how he came to the scene. Mercifully, he himself corruption- free? No doubt, the President to read, yet they don’t read; they talk a lot, has confessed it, when he said he knows of feels the pulse of Nigerians. He knows they yet, they don’t think strategically. Majority Nigerians’ undoubtedly pains and suffer- are dissatisfied with the state of things no of Nigerians claim to know God, yet they, ing. But, he pleads for patience and under- matter how the propagandists try to paint it. are ungodly in their attitudes to one another. standing. Nigerians have been inflicted with He should listen and do the needful: allevi- They profess love with their lips, yet exhibit much pains these past twelve months. If ate suffering. I commend this to him. profound hatred to those different from them. The endemic nature of corruption is as a We cannot continue like this as a people and nothing is done very quickly, Nigerians will begin to queue for food (as happened dur- result of the moral turpitude of the nation. expect a major transformation in our nation. ing the 1984 then General Buhari’s essential Nigerians are desperate to survive. Good The best way to find corruption is to remove commodities “Essenso” era). Nigerians may character is no longer fanciful. Values have the remote cause. As Martin Luther King, Jr. possibly queue for air. Part of the problem is been thrown to the trash can. The wor- (1929 - 1968), said “The best way to solve any the fact that the President erroneously sur- ship of money, however, evilly gotten, is problem is to remove its cause.” rounded himself mostly with “yes-men” the flavor of our time. Rogues and crooks and propagandists, who cannot challenge are deified because of money. Indeed, In- LAST LINE him or tell him the truth. The President had tegrity is no longer attractive in Nigeria. Are all Nigerians reading and digesting this to personally wade through the labyrinth of This is why Nigerians are corrupt- the rich Sunday sermon on the mount of the Nigecacophonous fawning and boot licking, to doing everything possible to stay rich and rian Project, by Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, acknowledge to Nigerians that he feels their the poor doing everything to get rich. Some OFR? pains and agony. He was brutally frank. corrupt Christians are given front pews in our churches. Some corrupt Muslims sit on • Follow me on twitter @ MikeozekhomeSAN Thank you sir. These people are those misinforming and with Olulana Kayode making him believe that there was abso08023183727 lutely nothing good about the past administration. Consequently, the President is in Instructions on how to play a hurry to alter many things, and dismanthe game tle the status quo of even things that were •With reference to the ‘clues working, like the agricultural sector. In the across’ and ‘clues down’ below, process, he is making avoidable mistakes. you shall try to provide anHe forgets that while everything may be swers to the clues, by writing possible, not everything is expedient. These the answer in the puzzle box propagandists in the last one year diverted provided on the left side. the attention of the President from the core •The number in parenthesis issue of governance, which is to better the indicates the total number of lives of the citizenry. They pushed him to go letters making up the solution or answer you will provide. after only political opponents and perceived •Keep on answering all the enemies in the name of ‘fighting corrupquestions until all the spaces tion’, while some of his closest allies who in the puzzle box are comhave been serially accused of corruption, pletely filled up. with some being indicted by Judicial ComGood luck! missions of Enquiry, remain untouched as sacred cows. It is this inherent contradicClues Across Clues Down tion that has prevented most Nigerians from buying into his anti-corruption mantra. 1 Ex Akwa Ibom state Governor, (7).

The

MIKE OZEKHOME

Cross Word Puzzle

NOW THIS Fighting corruption is all that Nigerians have heard in the last one year, without any tangible results, or a single conviction. No one is saying that those who looted the country’s treasury should not face the consequences. No. they must face the legal system, in accordance with due process and the rule of law. What is being said is that the fight ought not to have become the only focus, amidst so many other challenges. Besides, it ought not to have been targeted at political opponents only. After

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Be obliged to pay, (3). Distressed signal in radio code, (3). Mixture of gasses for breathing, (3). Expressing disgust, (3). City in Rivers State, (4). Not in favour of, (4). South Dakota, (2). Niobium symbol, (2). Strike violently, (4). Vessel for travel on water, (4). Farm implement, (3). Beverage drink, (3). Tribe in Ghana, (3). Writing material, (3). Ex Bauchi state MILAD, (7).

1 2 3 4 5 6 13 14 15 19 20 21

Abuja HIV/AIDS healer, (7). Copy illegally, (6). Make less distinct, (4). Area on Lagos Mainlamd. (6). Gov. Aregbesola state, (4). Town in Osun state, (3). Nigerian Masked musician, (7). Song of devotion, (6). A projecting shelf, (6). Not closed, (4). Keep engaged, (4). Squeeze tightly between the fingers, (3).

Turn to page 55 for solution

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