Thursday, may 5, 2016 binder1 by Newtelegraphonline

Nigeria’s JV oil crashes by 900,000 barrels daily Adeola Yusuf

HOUSTON, TEXAS

igeria’s Joint Ventures (JV) oil production has

crashed rapidly from 2.2 million barrels per day (bpd) to 1.2 million bpd, translating to a decline of 900,000 barrels daily.

Also, the country risks 27 per cent further JV output decline in next five years. Managing Director, SE-

PLAT Petroleum Development Company Plc., Mr. Austin Avuru, revealed these at the ongoing Offshore Technology Confer-

ence (OTC) in Houston, Texas, United States. He said that the only reason that the shortfall was noticed is that the

Foreign investors' apathy drags capital importation to $710.97m –NBS }4

country’s deep water production is still making up for the gap. Blaming the JV production deep on challenge of contracting cycle, cash CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Sanctity Of Truth

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

Thursday, May 5, 2016

12 injured as explosion hits Anambra market }9

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Vol. 3 No. 806

Obiano

LAUTECH sacks resident doctors }10

Adewole

EFCC quizzes Udenwa over N350m campaign funds }3

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Udenwa

FG owes pensioners N79.16bn }6

N150

Adeosun

Ex-minister's kidnapper arrested on way to Dubai lHow police nabbed suspects lI didn't eat for seven days, says Anisulowo lSenate proposes death for kidnappers }3 & 4

Army court-martials six officers for stealing, murder, immoral conduct }3 Buratai

Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed (left) with the Minister of Environment, Mrs. Amina Mohammed, at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja…yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

FG unveils 34 priority projects for execution lPower, energy, transport, road, health, agriculture top list

Anti-fungal drugs during pregnancies could lead to miscarriages }5

NEWS

THURSday, May 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

FG unveils 34 priority projects for execution Anule Emmanuel Abuja

he Federal Government yesterday announced 34 priority projects that it would judiciously implement this year to transform the economy. "These 34 specific areas are grouped into four major objectives. The first is policy, governance and security; the second is diversification of the economy; the third is creating support for the poor and the vulnerable, and the forth is reflecting our economy through investment," Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Hajia Zainab Ahmed, said. The projects are contained in a document, which was presented to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) by the Ministry of Budget and National Planning at the presidential villa, Abuja yesterday. Briefing State House

Correspondents after the FEC meeting presided over by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, Ahmed said government targets to achieve self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products within the next three years. Some of the target areas are, policy and governance, security as well as a minimum capital spending of 30 per cent per annum. Others are increase in low interest lending rate of about eight per cent to the real sector, maintenance of a stable debt management strategy, self-sufficiency in agricultural products, expansion of the agro allied sector to intensify local production of cassava, cocoa, cashew nuts, fruits and sesame seeds. The strategic programmes include increase private sector investment in tourism, sports, optimisation of up to 7,000 megawatts of electricity generation and distribution. The plan also include

stabilising gas pricing and availability to power stations, reviving of the rail sector, rehabilitation and construction of 31 major projects and restoring the degraded sections of some major highways and improved connectivity over a distance of 210,093 kilometres through public works maintenance, Public Private Partnership (PPP) and other interventions. The document as presented to FEC also include a three-year deadline target to achieve self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products and to become a net exporter of petroleum products, and a plan to push for the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) in conjunction with the National Assembly. Another area of target is to move 20 places up the World Bank ease of doing business, ranking from 169 to 149 by implementing various social projects covering health, education

as set by the Social Protection Policy. There is also plan to rehabilitate 5,000 primary healthcare centres around the country. The minister also disclosed that the 2016 budget, which is currently being reworked, will soon be ready for assent by President Muhammadu Buhari today or tomorrow. She said the Ministry of Budget and National Planning has been given the responsibility to track and report on quarterly basis to the council on the performance of these key priority areas. "I must say the executive and legislature have worked very hard putting things together, reviewing the details of the budget and is at its final stage, so maybe between today and tomorrow, the National Assembly will start the process of transmitting the details to the president,” she said.

President Muhammadu Buhari (left) with Senate President Bukola Saraki during a dinner in honour of the visiting Cameroonian President, Paul Biya, in Abuja… yesterday

Buhari commends Biya for hosting 56,000 Nigerian IDPs Anule Emmanuel Abuja

resident Muhammadu Buhari has commended the Cameroonian government, especially its president, Paul Biya, for hosting over 56,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Nigeria since July 2014. The president stated this on Tuesday night when he hosted the Cameroonian leader to a state banquet at the presidential villa, Abuja. Biya had paid a two-day state visit to the country, accompanied by his wife, Chantal, and other Cameroonian officials. Speaking at the ceremony, which featured cultural display, Buhari expressed appreciation to United Nations and other international donor agencies for their various assistances to IDPs across the country. He condoled with the

families of those that lost their loved ones as a result of the murderous activities of the Boko Haram insurgents. Buhari said: "Our special condolences go to families of our fallen heroes who had sacrificed their lives to safeguard our territorial integrity and provide security for lives and property of our people. “Permit me to use this occasion of Your Excellency’s visit to Nigeria to, once again, extend my personal gratitude and that of the Federal Government for your country’s hosting of over 65,000 Nigerian refugees since July 2014. “We also appreciate the assistance of the United Nations, international donors, local and international non-governmental organisations and the ordinary Cameroonian families who share their meagre provisions with the refugees in the spirit of African brotherhood.”

According to him, a comprehensive rehabilitation and resettlement programme for the IDPs are being worked out by the Federal Government in collaboration with some international organisations. He said that data of the IDPs is being collated for smooth implementation of the scheme. The president noted with delight the successes being recorded in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency by the Nigerian military in collaboration with the Multinational Joint Task Force against Boko Haram. He also commended the Cameroonian security agencies that recently participated in a joint military onslaught against the terrorist sect along the border areas of the Lake Chad. The president reassured that the battle against the terrorist group would soon be over as efforts had been

intensified by various security agencies across member countries of the multinational joint task force. Buhari explained that Nigeria and Cameroon would continue to maintain the path of dialogue and peace in addressing possible incident of social conflict or misunderstanding among the citizens of both countries. In his remarks, Biya, who spoke in French, reiterated the determination of his country to end the menace of the Boko Haram insurgency. He commended Buhari’s efforts in the fight against the activities of the terrorist group within and beyond Nigeria. He, however, called for joint agricultural programmes between Nigeria and Cameroon along their border communities to address the challenges of youth unemployment in their respective countries.

According to the minister, who was joined by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Aisha Abubakar; Minister of State Foreign Affairs, Khadija Aba Ibrahim, if the plan is properly followed, the economy will be stimulated to create adequate jobs for the youth. The minister said: "There is policy, governance and security, and one item from that, is to achieve and maintain a capital spending of a minimum of 30 per cent on an annual basis starting from 2016. The objective of doing that is to reflate the economy and enhance employment generation capacity for the productive sector. Another area is to achieve an appropriate exchange regime; the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is leading this particular action. "There is also a target for us to increase low interest lending to the real sector, the focus is to achieve an interest rate that is single digit, maybe nine per cent and the purpose is to increase output and growth. "We also have a target to maintain a stable debt management strategy so that we can optimise the local and foreign debts that we have. "On the thematic area of diversifying the economy, we plan to implement measures to achieve self-sufficiency and become a net export of certain number of agricultural produce; the first one being rice. We plan to attain self-sufficiency in rice production by 2018, in tomato paste by 2016 and also increase local production of maize, soya beans, poultry and livestock. "We also have plans to expand the agro allied sector to intensify local production of cassava, cocoa, cashew nuts, fruits and sesame seeds. "There is also plan to make use of 5,000 hectares arable land in 12 River Basin Development Authorities and to utilise 22 dams for commercial farming by prospective investors. According to her, "there is a plan to implement a road map to increase private sector investment in tourism, sports and the objective is to increase investment in the service sector thereby increase job creation and youth employment. "The power, rails and road is also a very impor-

tant priority area. There is a number of specific activities but one of them is to optimise up to 7,000 megawatts installed capacity and to ensure the associated infrastructure to ensure we transmit and distribute this capacity in the maximum operational level that is obtainable and also to conclude the privatisation of NIPP plants and improve management and performance of TSA. "There is also plans to complete the KadunaAbuja-Ajaokuta railway lines in 2016. We are also revising the National Rail Masterplan, which is commencing construction of the Lagos-Kano standard Gauge Rail line and also to finalise the negotiation regarding the Calabar-Lagos rail line. Of course, the objective of this is to increase availability of mass transit, to relief pressure on road infrastructure. "There is also a plan to undertake the rehabilitation and construction of 31 major projects and restore the degraded sections of some major highways and improved connectivity over a distance of 210,093 kilometres through public works maintenance, Public Private Partnership (PPP) and other interventions. The objective is to ease movement of people and enhanced road movement and connectivity. "We are setting a threeyear deadline to achieve self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products and to become a net exporter of petroleum products. The objective of this is to increase domestic supply of refined products and to reduce demand on foreign exchange for importing refined products in our country. The Ministry of Petroleum is pushing this. There is also a plan to push for the passage of the PIB in conjunction with the National Assembly. "The sixth area is the investment in the lives of our people by implementing various social projects covering health and education. The essence is to bring succour to the poor and vulnerable to achieve the targets set by the Social Protection Policy, which is currently under production. "On the health sector, we plan to rehabilitate 5,000 primary health centres in 5,000 wards in 2016. The objective is to deliver affordable health care services to Nigerians as close as possible to their homes.”

469,000 N301.27bn

The number of people receiving antiretroviral therapy in Latin America and the Caribbean in December 2009. Source: Who.int

The total value of crude oil and noncrude oil export to Netherlands in 2014 fourth quarter. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

NEWS

THURSday, May 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ex-minister's kidnapper arrested on way to Dubai

Kunle Olayeni Abeokuta

resh facts emerged yesterday on how the suspected abductors of the former Minister of State for Education, Senator Iyabo Anisulowo, were arrested by the police. The kingpin of the kidnapping syndicate was actually nabbed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in an attempt to flee to Dubai in the United Arab Emirate (UAE). Apart from the kingpin, whose identity was not made public, another suspect was also arrested in connection with the crime. New Telegraph reliably gathered that police detectives, acting on tip-off and intelligence, monitored the movement of the syn-

55,123

The total number of subscribers of Visafone Limited (fixed/fixed wireless) as at March 2015. Source: Ncc.gov.ng

N2,274.4bn The annual target collection of taxes of Nigeria in 2008. Source: Firs.gov.ng

dicate’s ringleader. This made the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Abdulmajid Ali, to inform his Lagos counterpart, Fatai Owoseni, who immediately swung into action, leading to the arrest of the suspect. A top security source, who was involved in the rescue operation, disclosed that the kingpin was picked up on Tuesday. He said: “We just monitored his movement as the ringleader of the syndicate and we got intelligence about his movement and that’s how we were able to pick him. “When we got the information, the CP Ogun informed CP Lagos and the CP Lagos swung into action immediately and the kingpin was arrested.” The state police commissioner confirmed the arrest of the suspects when he conveyed Anisulowo to the Government House, Abeokuta, to meet with Governor Ibikunle Amosun on Tuesday night. Ali said that the synergy that existed among security agencies resulted in the breakthrough. The police boss, who stated that investigation was ongoing, added that the suspected kidnappers

would be charged to court on completion of investigation. “We traversed over three states and we continued to look for them and, luckily, they gave up. The pressure was much on them. The helicopter patrol was a different thing entirely and we are grateful to the people of the state because they have the confidence in the security agencies,” he said. Meanwhile, Anisulowo has recounted her ordeal in the hands of her kidnappers, saying that she did not eat during her captivity that lasted seven days. Anisulowo, who spoke moments after her rescue, said she took to fasting and fervent prayer to survive in the kidnappers den. She said this just as Amosun disclosed that the kidnappers raised the ransom for the ex-minister from N100 million to N200 million because of his involvement in the search. The 65-year-old former minister was kidnapped on Wednesday, last week, while returning from her farm in Sawonjo, Yewa

EFCC quizzes Udenwa over N350m campaign funds Emmanuel Onani Abuja

peratives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday quizzed former governor of Imo State, Chief Achike Udenwa. Highly placed sources at the EFCC said Udenwa was interrogated until 9p.m., when he was allowed to go on administrative bail. One of the sources, who spoke in confidence with New Telegraph, said the former Imo helmsman's interrogation, was in connection with the campaign funds of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2015 general elections. The commission had earlier arrested a former Minister of Finance, Mrs. Esther Nenadi Usman, in connection with the probe. The Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, could not be reached for official comment. Sources at the EFCC said Udenwa, along with some prominent politicians, allegedly shared N3.145 billion in the build up to the last presidential elections. The money was paid by the Central Bank Nigeria (CBN) into the account

of the Ministry of External Affairs’ Library, from where it was moved into the account of Joint Trust Dimension Nigeria Limited. Those named in the probe are a former Minister of Aviation and Director of Media and Publicity for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Campaign Organisation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Chief Olu Falae; Usman; Udenwa; former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Viola Onwuliri and Okey Ezenwa. Both Udenwa and Onwuliri got N350 million in two tranches. The first tranche of N150 million was paid into their joint account with Zenith Bank on January 13, 2015. The second tranche of N200 million was credited into their account with Diamond bank. Fani-Kayode got N840 million; the Goodluck Support Group allegedly received N320 million, while Falae allegedly received N100 million. Usman was credited with N36.9 million, while Ezenwa got N100 million.

North Local Government Area of Ogun State. But following the inter-agency collaboration and deployment of intelligence, Anisulowo was rescued about 7p.m. on Tuesday at Gbegbelawo village, near Olorunda town in Yewa North Local Government Area. Narrating her ordeal, Anisulowo, who looked frail and tired, said she only took water while in the kidnappers’ custody. She stated that the condition under which she was kept was terrifying and dehumanising, adding that she only had hope in God that she would survive. Her words: “I’m short of words, but I want to thank God. I want to thank the governor for all the efforts you have put in with the security agencies. “I know the courage you have and the spirit to fight to the end and that was what kept me in the bush there waiting, that with the security agencies that you have, you will work it through. I thank God.” In his remarks, Amosun expressed gratitude

to President Muhammadu Buhari and the Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase, for their personal interventions in ensuring Anisulowo’s release. He commended security agencies in the state, including the Police, the Army and the Department of State Services (DSS), for deploying sophisticated equipment and intelligence in rescuing the abducted senator. The governor, who was in company with his deputy, Mrs Yetunde Onanuga, Secretary to the State Government, Taiwo Adeoluwa and other top government functionaries, expressed delight that the former National Assembly member was rescued unhurt. He noted that though the kidnappers demanded N200 million as ransom, no money was paid to secure Anisulowo’s release. Amosun said: “I have always argued that our security agencies can work, unless they don’t want to. We need to give kudos to God and thank our security people. This, indeed, is a different experience

for me; I see the extent to which our security agencies can go. “If they are given necessary equipment, they will work wonders. This is a huge breakthrough. I think the issue of kidnapping will die down with what they (security agencies) have achieved. “I think it’s a big shame that we found ourselves where we shouldn’t be; young people that should be working asking for ransom of N200 million. They even said because I got involved, they increased it from N100 million to N200 million. “They insisted from the second day that their ransom is N200 million. They said they had wanted to collect N100 million and I told them that they will face the law and that it is in their interest to release her. “They even threatened me and every other person. They said they will teach me, the IG, the Brigade Commander and all others lesson. They were abusing everybody on phone, but we thank God the way it was resolved.”

L-R: Ogun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Yetunde Onanuga; Senator Iyabo Anisulowo; Governor Ibikunle Amosun and Ogun State Police Commissioner, Abdulmajid Ali, after Anisulowo was rescued from suspected kidnappers...on Tuesday night.

photo: Kunle Olayeni

Army court-martials six officers over misconduct Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

he 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Odogbo, Ibadan, yesterday arraigned six military personnel from its various units before a General Court Martial (GCM) over alleged sundry acts of misconduct. Though details of the offences were not spelt out, the military personnel were alleged to have committed criminal misdemeanors including “murder, manslaughter, stealing, negligence of performance of military duties, sexual relationship

with spouse of military personnel, disgraceful conduct of indecent nature and scandalous conduct of an officer.” The accused military personnel were of the following ranks: Major, Captain, Lieutenant, Second lieutenant, Corporal and Private. They allegedly committed the offences at various units under the 2 Division of Nigerian Army. The trial commenced immediately after the General Officer Commanding (GOC) for the division, Major General Laz Ilo, inaugurated the court martial presided over by Brig.Gen. Ibikunle Raji.

The panel consisted of Col. Jimoh Audu, Lt. Col Kenneth Emefiele, Lt. Col Aliyu Emekoma, Major James Mimiola and the Judge advocate, Major Diepiriye Biambo. In his remarks, the GOC said: “The military formation is one that is anchored and driven by core values, most importantly discipline. In administration of discipline in the Nigerian Army, we ensure that justice is never miscarried. The accused, who have committed the offences, have been given ample opportunity and all required to defend themselves.” Ilo stated that the inauguration of the court-

martial was in line with the vision of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, to have a professionally responsive Nigerian Army in the discharge of its constitutional roles to the nation. He added that “to accomplish the vision, there is need for discipline and absolute discipline.” “Under my command, the division will not tolerate any form of indiscipline. I will not condone any form of indiscipline. Every act of indiscipline and every manifestation of indiscipline must be decisively dealt with. No act of indiscipline will go unpunished,” he asserted.

NEWS

THURSday, May 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Senate proposes death for kidnappers …recommends 5-year jail term for randy lecturers Chukwu David Abuja

orried by the incidences of kidnapping and hostage taking in Nigeria, the Senate yesterday resolved that the National Assembly should enact a law, prescribing death for kidnappers. The Senate took the decision while considering the report of the Senate Joint Committee on Police Affairs and National Security and Intelligence on “the unfortunate recurrence of kidnapping and hostage-taking in Nigeria – A National Wake-up Call.” The Senate had, at its sitting on Thursday, November 19, 2015, deliberated on

the motion and mandated the committees to invite the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Director-General, Department of State Services (DSS) to brief the committees on efforts to eliminate the menace. The Senate agreed that capital punishment for kidnappers was the only condition that would discourage people from the criminal behaviour, which has become a nightmare in Nigeria. While presenting the report, the chairman of the joint committee, Senator Abu Ibrahim, noted that the IGP, Mr. Solomon Arase; DG, DSS, Lawal Daura and the Minister of Interior, Lt. Gen Abdulrahaman Dambazau (rtd) had interactive session

with the committee on December 9, where they furnished the committee with information on the current situation with respect to the problem. He said that the committee observed that, though kidnapping started in the Niger Delta, there was nothing serious done by relevant authorities to curb the menace before it escalated. The committee, however, noted that kidnapping and hostage taking were currently being tackled by security agencies, pointing out that the vices had become a nationwide phenomenon. The committee stated that it found out that the major impediment facing the security agencies in

tackling the menace was inadequacy of funding to enable them procure modern equipment to combat the crime. Consequently, the committee recommended that the funding of the security agencies should be taken as a priority project, warning that envelop budgetary pattern for security agencies had proved ineffective over the years. The committee also recommended that the government should gear up efforts towards creating employment opportunities for the teeming unemployed youths, to minimise incidences of criminality in the country, including kidnapping. It further recommended that synergy and intel-

ligence sharing among security agencies should be vigorously pursued to make the fight against the problem easier and more result oriented. Contributing to the debate on the report, the Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, argued that the only way to discourage kidnapping in Nigeria was to refuse payment of ransom by relatives of victims or government officials. "The only way to discourage kidnapping is to refuse to pay ransom. If we begin to refuse to pay ransom, it will discourage the kidnappers and reduce the crime in the country," he stated. Also contributing, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce noted that one of the things encouraging kidnapping in the country was the lack of consequence for criminal behaviours. "There is no consequence for crime in Nigeria; there must be consequence for bad behaviour. It is a social, criminal and legal problem that must be addressed. "A lot of Nigerians are on drugs and when they take drugs, they can't think well anymore. Therefore, if we must make progress

in tackling the menace of kidnapping, we must first deal with drug problem," he urged. Meanwhile, the Upper Chamber has moved to impose stringent punishment on morally corrupt male lecturers in tertiary institutions in the country. Senators are set to pass a law, prescribing five-year jail term without any option of fine for any lecturer found guilty of harassing female students sexually. This was contained in a bill to that effect entitled: "Sexual Harassment in Tertiary Institutions Bill 2016", co- sponsored by 46 senators, which passed first reading in the Senate yesterday. The bill, according to its lead sponsor, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, seeks for enactment of an “Act to Make Provisions for the Prohibition of Sexual Harassment of female students by educators in Tertiary Educational Institutions in Nigeria and for Matters Connected Therewith, 2016.”

N325.79bn The total value of crude oil export to Spain in 2014 fourth quarter. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

Foreign investors' apathy drags capital importation to $710.97m –NBS L-R: Former Deputy National Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George; Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose; Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; Senator Iyiola Omisore and Ondo State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Lasisi Oluboyo, at a meeting of the South-West party leaders, in Akure…yesterday

Nigeria’s JV oil crashes by 900,000 barrels daily CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

calls arrears and JV funding, Avuru tasked all stakeholders to address the issue immediately. He said: "Go and check production records, you will discover that JV production has declined from 2.2 million bpd to 1.2 million bpd. The only reason we are still doing two million bpd is that deep water production made up for the gap. "In the next five years, our deep water production will also be declining and the real impact of poor funding of the JV will start to manifest when, as a nation, we will be producing not more than 1.6 million bpd. So, we must begin to address the challenges by doing the right thing.” He urged the government to design a structure that would give each JV sufficient operational and financial independence. He said: "JV today is a producing venture and if the minority is able to fund its shared operation from its revenue, why wouldn't the majority party be able to do same? The structure

of the JV and the JV agreement allows for the selffunding mechanisms. “Once their budget is approved for the year, it will require no new legislation other than the minister and the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to have the courage and allow the JV to be self-funding autonomy.” Avuru stated that in 1980s when the JVs were being handled by the JV Department (now NAPIMS), the General Manager, JV, will sign the cash call request and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will approve immediately. The SEPLAT Petroleum boss said: "Gradually, the system just got so elastic and everybody wants to be involved in the JV operations to the point that the cost of operations is now being legislated for by the National Assembly. “However, fortunately, the government has agreement to work on contracting cycle. In some cases, it gets to 24 months and most re-

cently, everybody forgets a contract is being processed and the job never gets done. "If you borrow for a contract and you have to wait for two years to get approval, the interest rates would have added to the cost. If these challenges can be addressed, we will reduce cost by 40 per cent in the next five years.” It would be recalled that the Federal Government, through the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and Group Managing Director, NNPC, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, had charged all agencies involved in the contracting process such as NCDMB, NAPIMS and operating companies to work together and develop a common industry contracting procedure that will reduce the contracting processing time to six months. Meanwhile, the Nigeria's annual trade with Houston, an oil city in Texas, hit $15 billion in 2015. The Mayor of Houston, Sylvester Turner, said that the oil and gas trade between Nigeria and Houston is a success story because of their close ties.

Mayor Turner stated this in his special message to Nigeria's Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Houston's Original Manufacturers (OEMs) at the 2016 Nigeria Content Investment Forum event yesterday. He explained that the existing close ties between Nigeria and Houston has made many oil companies having office branches or associate in Nigeria. "As at today, 330 Houston companies have businesses and trade connection with Nigeria," Turner said, noting that Houston is ranked as Nigeria's largest US gate way for international trade and for greater partnership. To further strengthen Houston/Nigeria oil and gas trade, the Houston Mayor said in 2011, United Airlines opened a direct flight in Nigeria from Houston to Lagos, linking two major energy cities. "This flight has already promoted robust connections. Houstonians and Nigerians alike have benefited greatly from this connection," he said.

Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

oreign investors' apathy to Nigeria's business environment negatively impacted the level of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflow into the country in the first quarter of 2016, according to a report released last night by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The report put the total value of capital imported into Nigeria within the period at $710.97 million, the lowest ever since 2007 when the series began. The Bureau attributed the decline to momentary challenges assailing the economy, with the drop in crude oil prices at the global market being the major cause. The figure represents a decline of 54.34 per cent since the final quarter of 2015, and a year-on-year decline of 73.79 per cent, the report said. "Both the quarterly and year-on-year declines were also the lowest recorded since the series began. As a result of these changes, total capital importation has fallen by 89.13 per cent since its peak in the third quarter of 2014." Aside the crash in crude oil prices, which led to drop in the capital importation, the report cited

other reasons. "Although there are a number of reasons why the amount of capital imported in recent years may have been higher than usual (such as the inclusion of Nigeria in the JP Morgan bond index and global low interest rate triggering a search for higher yields over this period), the fact that the amount of capital imported has dropped to a record low suggests that there are further reasons Nigeria has attracted less foreign investment in recent years. “Investors may be concerned about whether or not they will be able to repatriate the earnings from their investments, given the current controls on the exchange rate," the report said. In the first quarter of 2016, the largest component of capital investment was portfolio investment accounting for $271.03 million or 38.12 per cent of all capital imported. The largest component was equity, which accounted for $201.69 million, representing 74.41 per cent of portfolio and 28.37 per cent total capital imported. The second largest component was other investments, accounting for $265.48 million or 37.34 per cent of all capital imported.

news

thursday, may 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Jonathan’s cousin sues FG, denies implicating ex-president Foluso Ogunmodede

or the umpteenth time, a Niger-Delta activist and former President Goodluck Jonathan’ s cousin, Mr. Robert Azibaola, yesterday asked the Lagos division of the Federal High Court to halt further plan by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to force him to implicate the former president on a non-existent crime. Specifically, Azibaola, who said his perpetual incarceration in EFCC's detention cell was due to his refusal to implicate Jonathan, urged the court to declare that the antigraft agency’s use of force to compel him to name Jonathan in an alleged corruption was a flagrant

violation of Section 7 of the 2015 Administration of Criminal Justice Act. He, however, asked the court to bar the EFCC from issuing a remand warrant against him. Yesterday, Azibaola headed for the court again, days after he was detained by the anti-graft agency over an alleged contract awarded him by the former President Jonathan’s administration. He is challenging his detention by the EFCC since March 23 without any subsisting charge. In the alleged contract, the detained Azibaola was commissioned by the former administration to execute an assignment to network with major stakeholders to ‘prevent oil pipelines vandalism, bunkering and crude oil theft’. This, according to him

was ‘duly executed upon payment’ without any breach of contract contrary to the EFCC claims that the alleged contract was a sham. In a suit filed yesterday by his lawyer, Mr Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, Azibaola challenged his detention, asking the court to stop the EFCC from applying for a new remand warrant against him from any court in Nigeria, as such attempt was a ploy to keep him in custody indefinitely. In a deposed affidavit, Azibaola said he was commissioned by the Federal Government to execute an assignment to network with all stakeholders for the purpose of preventing oil pipelines vandalism, oil bunkering and crude oil theft.

Anti-fungal drugs during pregnancies could lead to miscarriages Appolonia Adeyemi

edical experts that prescribe the antifungal drug, fluconazole, during pregnancy have been cautioned because it might raise the risk of miscarriages. Although, Fluconazole (brand name Diflucan) is used to treat vaginal yeast infections, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which issued the warning on Tuesday, has advised patients, who are pregnant or actively trying to get pregnant to talk to their health care professionals about alternative treatment options for yeast infections. Vaginal yeast infections are caused by an organism called Candida albicans, and symptoms include vaginal itching, burning, discharge, and pain with urination. Reacting to the study, an obstetrician and gynaecologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, Dr. Jennifer Wu, urged women who are trying to

become pregnant or who are pregnant to avoid fluconazole, adding, "For these women, a topical medicine is the preferred treatment." Topical medicine means the drug is applied to body surfaces such as the skin or mucous membranes to treat ailments via a large range of classes including creams, foams, gels, lotions, and ointments. Fluconazole (available as a pill or suspension liquid) is the only oral drug used to treat yeast infections during pregnancy, Wu said. The FDA said it was evaluating the results of a recent Danish study that suggested a link between fluconazole and miscarriage, along with additional data and will release final conclusions and recommendations when the review was completed. According to a report in the newsmax.com, current labelling information on the drug suggests that a single 150 milligram (mg) dose of oral fluconazole to treat vaginal yeast infection is safe to take during

pregnancy. However, the FDA noted that in rare cases higher doses taken during pregnancy (400 mg to 800 mg a day) had been linked to abnormalities at birth. In the Danish study, most of the fluconazole use appeared to be one or two doses of 150 mg. "Until FDA's review is complete and more is understood about this study and other available data, FDA advises cautious prescribing of oral fluconazole in pregnancy." The agency noted that the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention recommends only antifungal creams to treat pregnant women with vaginal yeast infections, even for longer periods than usual if the infections persist or recur. While the Danish study showed that pregnant women treated with fluconazole had a greater risk of miscarriage than those who used an antifungal cream, it did not prove the drug causes miscarriages, the authors noted

FG seeks dismissal of Tompolo's suit over judicial review Akeem Nafiu

he Federal Government has asked Justice Olatoregun Ishola of a Federal High Court in Lagos to dismiss with cost, a suit filed by a former Niger Delta militant leader, Government Ekpemulopo, a. k. a Tompolo. He is seeking to nullify Sections 221 and 306 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015

(ACJA). The government in its counter-affidavit, described the suit as an abuse of court process, frivolous, time wasting, grossly misleading and erroneous in its totality. The Federal Government further claimed that the sections did not infringe on the fair hearing and fundamental rights of the applicant. It was further contended that the intention of

the sections were geared towards ensuring speedy and efficient dispensation of justice and to avoid malicious delay and stalling of criminal cases by parties employing frivolous and time wasting tactics to impede the course of justice. Tompolo had in the fundamental rights enforcement suit urged the court to nullify sections 221 and 306 of the ACJA, under which he was charged.

CELLSTOP TRACKERS LIMITED 1, Sybil Iroche Street, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos 07064189429, 09096069602 customercarenigeria@cellstop.com, uche@cellstop.com

INDIVIDUAL CONSUMER CODE OF PRACTICE (ICCP) INTRODUCTION CellStop Trackers Limited“CellStop”is a telemetry company that specializes in the provision of vehicle tracking and fleet management services. It is the sole franchise holder of CellStop International; currently operating in 13 countries. The active involvement of CellStop International as a core investor and in the technical management of CellStop Nigeria guarantees world class service delivery to Consumers. OBJECTIVES OF THE CODE OF PRACTICE The Code of Practice highlights the strategies and policies adopted by CellStop to ensure that its Consumers derive optimal benefits from its services. QUALITY OF SERVICE CellStop shall comply with the Quality of Service standards in line with the Nigerian Communications Commission Rules and Regulations and commitment to delivering highest quality service to its Consumers. PROVISION OF INFORMATION TO CONSUMERS General Information CellStop is committed to providing Consumers with information on services that is complete, accurate, and up to date and in simple, clean language. CellStop shall endeavour to respond in a timely manner to Consumer requests for information on any services and such information shall be provided free of charge. Information on the Cost of Tracking Services The costs of our tracking systems are economical and competitive. Consumers are furnished with information regarding; the applicable rates or charges, what the charges include, each part or element of an applicable charge, the method of its calculation and the frequency of the charge or other circumstances that give rise to the charge. Our payment structure aim to be flexible as possible in the way that our services are both charged and paid for. Information Regarding Contract Before service provision to a soon-to-be Consumer, CellStop shall provide full terms and conditions information regarding the service to be provided. PROTECTION OF CONSUMER INFORMATION CellStop is committed to maintaining the highest degree of integrity in all our dealings with potential, current and past Consumers, both in terms of commercial confidentiality, and the protection of all personal information received in the course of providing the services concerned. COMPLAINT HANDLING PROCEDURES CellStop will ensure that all complaints are given expedited treatment. Where the resolution of a query is dependent on the input of a third party service provider (e.g. network element, value added service or service provisioning interfaces), resolution would be dependent on Service Level Agreements (SLAs) agreed with service provider but however the Nigerian Communications Commission's Quality of Service Regulations shall be strictly adhered. EMERGENCY SITUATIONS CellStop has provided Emergency telephone lines which its Consumers can access during emergencies. These lines are available 24 hours a day. If the vehicle is stolen or the device is malfunctioning, the Consumer must contact the emergency telephone lines immediately and provide CellStop with necessary information and documentation as may be requested. Stolen vehicle recovery involves other parties and the scope of this service will attract the services of the police, the cost of which shall be borne by the Consumers.

NEWS | national

Philip Nyam Abuja

he Federal Government is said to be owing N79.16 billion being arrears of 15 per cent pension increase owed to 79,961 retirees under the contributory Pension scheme as at December 31, 2015. Director-General of the National Pension Commission (PENCOM), Mrs. Chinelo Anohu-Amaizu, disclosed this yesterday in her presentation at the public hearing on 'the level of compliance on the contributory pension scheme,' organized by the House of Representatives committee on pensions. She noted that out of the N91.91 billion projected Retirement Benefits Bond Redemption Fund

thursday, may 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

FG owes pensioners N79.16bn (RBBRF), only N50.20 billion was provided for in the 2016 appropriations bill, leaving the balance of N41.71 billion. She also alleged that "Federal Government is also yet to commence the implementation of the revised 18 per cent minimum pension contributions for its employees as stipulated under section 4 of the Pension Reform Act 2014. The breach, according to PENCOM was a "financial crime" to be referred to Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for prosecution. According to her, the Commission has so far transferred Pension assets worth N274.41 billion to licensed Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs)

and Pension Fund Custodians (PFCs) from both private and public sector employers. In the bid to track defaulters, the Commission has recovered N9.289 billion comprising of principal engaged recovery agents and N3.633 billion penalty as at 31st December 2015. As at 2014 when the new legislation took-off, 243 employers that failed to remit outstanding Pension contributions have been subjected to legal

0.2%

The percentage of individuals using the internet in Ghana in 2001. Source: Itu.int

action and are at different stages of prosecution at the National Industrial Court (NIC). "Employers that fail to remit outstanding Pension contributions and established penalties are further approached for civil compliance through administrative mechanisms as set out in the regime of sand ions of the Commission. "This sanction regime include and are not limited to the issuance of demand letters, letters of warning, letters of caution and outright sanctions." While speaking on the categories of persons exempted from the contributory Pension scheme, the PenCom Chief explained

L-R: Media &Publicity Officer, Church Administrators Society of Nigeria (CASON),Mrs. Olufunke Adio; Registrar/CEO, Pastor Segun Adegoke; President, Pastor Seyi Oladimeji; Managing Editor, Business & Strategy, New Telegraph Newspapers, Mr. Yemi Ajayi; Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, Mrs. Funke Egbemode and Managing Editor, North & Abuja, Mr. Laurence Ani during CASON’s visit to New Telegraph Corporate Head office in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO: GODWIN IREKHE

Fulani herdsmen've right to self-defence –Miyeti Allah Our Correspondent

he umbrella-body of Fulani herdsmen in Nigeria, the Miyeti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, has said that the quest by its members to survive outside their territory, having been "squeezed", was largely responsible for the incessant clashes with farmers in some parts of the country. This position is coming following the recent killings in some parts of the country by suspected Fulani herdsmen, the latest being the attack on Nimbo, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area in Enugu State, which left over 20 dead, and many injured. The National Chairman of the Miyeti Allah group, Senator Dagiri Alkali, canvassed the argument yesterday in Abuja, when he led a delegation to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ). Alkali, who noted that self-defence was an art in military profession", further alluded to the fact that these incessant clashes would not be there, were there still grazing reserves

for cattle in the country. "Wherever he goes, he is a rich man. So, why will he fight? So you as the military people, you know self defence is an art in military profession. If you are attacked, you have to defend yourself. "You have been squeezed. You have to find a way to survive. So, the Fulani has been squeezed. So, they now venture into a territory that they were not there before and people find that very strange. "Before they could find

Tunde Oyesina Abuja

witness of the All Progressives Congress (APC), David Boyai, yesterday, told the Bayelsa State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, sitting in Abuja that Governor Seriake Dickson's arrival at Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, triggered the orgy of violence that was witnessed during the state's governorship election which was held on December 6, 2015. The APC and its governorship candidate, Ti-

their foot there and settle with the people that are there, that is why we are having this initial problem," Alkali said. In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Gabriel Olonisakin, restated the resolve of the Nigerian military to bring perpetrators of attacks on civilians to justice. The CDS, who was represented by the Director of Administration at the DHQ, ,Major-General Fatai Ali, said: "I want to

assure you that the military, in conjunction with the other security agencies, is doing everything possible in maintaining the security in Nigeria in line with the directive of the Commander in Chief. " He added that "A committee has already been set up by the Chief of Defence Staff, to interface with the stakeholders on this issue; go to all the flash points, meet with the various stakeholders and come back to report on the appropriate line of action. "

that all judicial officers exempted by virtue of section 291 of the 1999 Constitution and military, intelligence and security services personnel, are subjected to the supervision and regulation of the Commission. Anohu-Amaizu observed that out of about

Buhari, Osinbajo, Saraki, others' assets verified, says CCB Tunde Oyesina Abuja

he Code of Conduct Bureau said yesterday said that the assets declared by President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, and other top government officials in the current dispensation have been completely verified. This was contained in a statement issued by the Bureau 's Head, Press and Protocol Unit, Mohammed Idris. Idris however denied a newspaper publication in which it was claimed that

being cross-examined by Dickson's counsel, Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), told the tribunal that the governor's arrival at Okoroma, Ward 1 of Southern Ijaw LGA on December 6, 2015, ignited widespread violence in the area. According to him:"We were preparing peacefully for the elections at Okoroma Ward 1 of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area until Governor Seriake Dickson arrived." Then, violence erupted".

the verification of the assets of President Buhari and other government officials by the CBB was still ongoing. The bureau further noted that the newspaper publication was a trick targeted at undermining ongoing trials before the Code of Conduct Tribunal. The statement, captioned, "Re: CCB still verifying Buhari, Osinbajo, Saraki’s, others’ assets", disclosed that under the current President Buhari’s administration, the CCB had been recording increased level of compliance to asset declaration by public officials.

Zoning formula inconsistent with PDP constitution –Party chiefs Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

oncerned leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has faulted the zoning formula adopted last week by National Executive Committee (NEC). The group, led by former Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu, which met in Abuja yesterday,also said only one-third of NEC members were present at the meeting. Gover nor Udom Emmanuel-led zoning committee retained the national chairmanship position in the North

East. Apart from the chairmanship at the North East, the positions of Deputy National Chairman and National secretary were retained in SouthSouth and South West. The distribution of the national offices are as follow: four national offices to South-South, North Central and North West respectively, while South West and South East have three national offices each. The North East has two national offices. But the group said the zoning was inconsistent with the original PDP principles but offered no further explanation.

Book on telecoms for unveiling today

Dickson'spresencecausedviolence A in Southern Ijaw, says witness

mipre Sylva, are challenging the election of Dickson of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the December 2015 and January 2016 governorship polls that were conducted in the state. The petitioners are challenging the validity of the election over alleged widespread violence and substantial non-compliance with the Electoral Act. At the resumed hearing yesterday, the first petitioners' witness, Boyai, while

seven million employees working with public and private sector employers and registered with PFAs, only 73,402 employees have so far been registered, while 43,918 employers with more than three employees have largely complied with the provisions of the PRA.

new book on telecommunications titled 'Our Nigerian Story,' which catalogues the development and charts the way forward in the industry would be unveiled to the public today in Lagos. In a statement by Praying Hands, the publishers of the book, “Our Nigerian Story” is scheduled to be launched under the chairmanship of Chief Leo Stan Ekeh, Chief Executive Officer, Zinox Technologies Group. According to the Special Adviser to the President on Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, the au-

thor has distinguished herself in the industry with more than a decade of experience witnessing milestones and key policy formulations from the front row. He said: “The book is coming at a time when the Buhari administration is repositioning ICT to become one of the biggest contributors to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the economy. It is a book that should be in the archive of every Nigerian. It is written in a way to attract a non reading society and not losing the technical details".

national | news

thursday, may 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Why FG is creating grazing D reserves –Ogbeh

Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

Philip Nyam Abuja

he Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, yesterday explained that the Federal Government was planning to create grazing reserves for herdsmen across the country in order to stem the orgy of renewed violence involving farmers and Cattle herders. Ogbeh, who stated this in his presentation before the House of Representatives at the ongoing sectoral debate on the economy, explained that the idea behind the grazing reserves was to discourage cattle roaming and indiscriminate grazing. He told the lawmakers that each state was expected to provide them 5000 hectares of land, which would be re-grassed by the government and provided with schools and other facilities for the comfort of the herdsmen and the cattle. While insisting on the importation of grass

from Brazil, Ogbeh said nine states had written to the ministry seeking the Federal Government’s support to develop areas it had earmarked for reserves. Responding to why government was making provision for land for herdsmen engaged in private business, the Minister explained that the Federal Government has a responsibility to the herdsmen like any other Nigerian. On how government was going to fund the provision of grass and other facilities, Ogbeh disclosed that the World Bank and other donors would assist the government. The Minister lamented that colleges of agriculture in the country were not been well funded, disclosing that the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) has even excluded them from its list of beneficiaries. He said the use of commodity exchange and Genetically Modified Organisms, GMO in the agric sector will help diversify the country's economy away from oil.

espite the of problem of children being out of school and other violation of the rights of children prevalent in the northern part of Nigeria, only two out of the 19 northern states in the country have passed the Child Rights Act. Former Chairman, National Human Rights Commission, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, who disclosed this in Abuja, yes-

Only two northern states have passed Child Right Act –Odinkalu terday, said only Benue and Jigawa States had enacted the Act. Odinkalu, who also raised the alarm about the state of public basic education in the country also revealed that 23 out of the 36 States of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have passed the Child Right Act into law. All other states in

Southern Nigeria, according to him have signed the law with the exception of Enugu State. Speaking at a one day policy training organised in Abuja by the UKAID and Mercy Corps on the effective implementation of the Child Rights Act and its implications for girl child education and empowerment, he lamented

Abuja

he Christian Association of Nigeria CAN, Benue State chapter yesterday petitioned the National Human Rights Commission over the killings of people and destruction of property by Fulani herdsmen in the state. The Association which was led to the headquarters of the NHRC by its chairman, Rev. Augustine Leva asked for adequate compensation from Federal and State Governments to assuage the pains of the victims of the attacks. He added that the victims had been so traumatised and dehumanised following the series of attacks unleashed on them from time to time. CAN, however, noted that the attackers who were on Jihadist mission in a bid to islamise the state were equipped with sophisticated weapons. Leva who said the situation was worsened by government’s indecision

noted:“It is an ocular fact that the continued attacks, which are evidently encouraged by the indecision of Government, are clearly jihadist attempts, calculated at forcefully Islamising and subjugating the people of Benue state", he added. He, however, expressed surprise over the failure of government to curb the incessant and unwarranted killings and wanton destruction of property allegedly perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen against the people of the state. According to him, “These mindless killings and invasions reached its climax from 2013, and it were advancing with sporadic and regular attacks here and there. The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Prof. Bem Angwe who recieved the petition, however, expressed sadness over the killings by the herdsmen, promising that the commission would carry out an impartial investigation into the case and ensure that justice was done.

the poor condition of public schools across the country. While challenging the Nigerian government to make the Child Rights Act work, he also challenged the Federal Government to embark on advocacy to put the Child Rights law in place in North Eastern and Western states of the federation where, he said, it was most needed.

Navy pledges mandatory personnel training to combat insecurity Emmanuel Masha Port Harcourt

he Nigerian Navy has pledged mandatory training of its personnel in a bid to check insecurity in the country's wa-

0.21%

The percentage contribution of Stamp Duty to total collection for 2015 Q3. Source: Firs.gov.ng

terways, and the overall safeguard of its territorial integrity The Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command, Rear Adm. Joseph Okojie, who stated this in Onne, Rivers State during a familiarization tour of the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School in Onne, said that such training would equip personnel to fight oil theft and piracy. Okojie noted that the

Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice-Adm. IbokEte Ibas, wanted a more effective navy, and as such, ordered the training and re-training of both officers and ratings. He said that officers would be trained within and outside the country, just as he said that the navy now provides support to other security operatives on land, apart from operating on the sea. According to him, the

navy also takes the accommodation of personnel seriously, as well as other forms of motivation to bring out the best in them. He also said: "The Navy has stepped up training, re-training and provision of accommodation in our professional schools to ensure highly motivated and proficient workforce to meet both current and anticipated security threats. L-R: Special Assistant to the Minister of Information and Culture, Mr. Segun Adeyemi; Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Adesugba Ayotunde, during a press conference in Abuja… yesterday.

CAN petitions rights' commission over Agatu killings Tunde Oyesina

PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

OPS expresses worry over budget implementation Taiwo Hassan

s the Federal Government prepare grounds to formally unveil the release the 2016 appropriation bill this week, the Organised Private Sector (OPS) has raised the fears of negative impact from the possible non owing to its late signing. Specifically, the OPS said, the budget delay

would have adverse effect on most of the Federal Government’s earmarked capital projects for the fiscal year, especially in the area of infrastructural development, which it said could further deepen the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth projection for 2016. Director-General, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Muda Yusuf, in a chat with New

Telegraph yesterday, said that President Muhammadu Buhari’s move to assent to the 2016 budget would not bring the desire succour to Nigerians and the economy in general immediately. This he said was because already, the implementation of the budget would take a much longer time to implement and the economy would only see the effect of the budget next year.

INEC: Reps to amend Electoral Act Philip Nyam Abuja

he House of Representatives yesterday passed for second reading six bills seeking to amend the Electoral Act 2010, due to the stalemate resulting from the death of the erstwhile All Progressives Congress (APC)

governorship candidate in the November 21, 2015 Kogi State gubernatorial election, Prince Abubakar Audu. Audu, died on Sunday November 22, 2015 during the counting of votes of the election before the INEC declared the election inconclusive. The Bills are: 'A Bill for an Act to make Provi-

sions to cover the Lacuna in the event of Death of a Governorship Candidate any time before the Conclusion of an Election and A Bill for an Act to Amend the Electoral Act 2010 to Empower Election Tribunals and Courts to declare Candidates who scored Highest Votes as Winners of Election when the Tribunal or Court holds that

Speaking on the effect of the budget delay on the economy, the financial expert stressed that the budget delay would no doubt add to the already economic challenges facing the country. He said the delay in budget passage was affecting the country’s economic growth as non-development of the country’s infrastructure is dragging back the GDP growth.

the Winner of the Election is Unqualified for Election ab initio' among others. While leading debate on the general principles of the proposed legislations, House Leader Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila said that the proposed amendment was because the legislators do not envisage every possible scenario until it occurs.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

METRO

ABIODUN BELLO abiodun.bello@newtelegraphonline.com 08023938212

...CRIME, CITY WATCH, COURTS

Muritala Ayinla and Taiwo Jimoh

48-year-old man, Henry Ate, yesterday told police in Lagos that he and other pickpockets usually operate in shifts - morning and evening - in the Lagos metropolis. Ate and seven others were arrested by officials of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) as pickpockets. The RRS also arrested seven others as “one-chance” robbers. All the suspects were arrested at Ajegunle area and Mile 2. The RSS gave the names of the suspects as Ate, Akeem Fatai (42), Jerry Nwokoro (24), Olayinka Tadius (29), Lucky Thompson (36), Stanley Augustine (31) and Ubah Kenneth (25). Others are Habib Narudeen (17), Oyemi Ilesanmi (23), Kenneth Okojie (30), Chinedu Uzubi (24), Ajakaiye Christopher (30), Samson Uwaneze (23), and Wasiu Kazeem 24; while Chinedu Godwin (32), a suspected pickpocket, was apprehended at Mile 2. The police also recovered two commercial buses with registration number KTU 716XS and GGE 532XL used by the suspects. According to RRS, the arrest was made possible following a tip-off from the members of the public about the incessant attacks of the suspects. According to Ate, after their operation they retire to hotel in the afternoon and then regroup later in the evening. He said: “As at the time we were arrested, more than half of us had gone out for the morning operation, but seven of us were arrested at various bus stops along Oshodi-Mile

We run shifts, say pickpockets 2 routes. As pickpockets, we know one another. We have no other jobs than what we do; it is what we depend on.” The suspect added that, occasionally, the pickpockets work with “one-chance” robbers. According to him, the opera-

tion involves a bus driver, conductor and a pickpocket who seats mostly at the back seat of the bus. He added: “Whenever we are going on operation, we only pick about two to four passengers and dispossess them of their belongings and

Fire breaks out at Lagos Secretariat

here was confusion yesterday at the Lagos State Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, when fire broke out at the building housing the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. About 2:10p.m. thick smoke rose from the ground floor of the three-storey building housing the Energy Ministry and its Wealth Creation counterpart as panic gripped staff hurriedly trooped out of their offices to escape being trapped by fire. This was as the state Fire Service said responded to over 500 fire-related emergencies between January and April. It was learnt that yesterday’s fire, which started from the Accounts Department located on the ground floor, burnt some files, copier and other gadgets. An official of the ministry, who pleaded anonymity, said that the workers noticed

smoke in the Accounts Room around 2p.m. and later discovered that it was a fire outbreak. Witnesses said there was spark when the distribution company restored power to the secretariat which led to the fire. A woman, whose office is located on the third floor, said she ran frantically to get downstairs while she forgot her bag in the office. She said: “We thank God that it didn’t happen at night. Many other staff abandoned their belongings in the office and fled to safety, while the Lagos State Fire Service was quickly alerted.” The Director of the state fire service, Mr. Rasaq Fadipe, who led the fire service men to the scene with two trucks, refused to speak with journalists. But a Director in the Ministry of Energy

drop them by the roadside before speeding off. But we don’t push down any passenger we have robbed. “If I decide not go out with my gang, I always prefer to pickpocket alone at Shoprite and Governor’s Office area.” Six of the suspects con-

Some of the suspects

fessed to the police that they operate from Mile 2 to Oshodi and Oshodi to Iyana-Ipaja routes. Pastor Emeka Ndukwe, one of their victims, narrated how his phone was removed from his pocket inside the bus at Iyana-Ipaja area. He said: “I only noticed my phone was removed when I wanted to buy something at the bus stop.” The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Dolapo Badmos, who confirmed the arrest of the suspects, said there would be no hiding place for criminals in Lagos. She, however, said the suspects would soon be charged to court.

Workers in front of the building

and Mineral Resources, Mrs. Fiyintoluwa Ogunbanke, said the fire emanated from the internet box in the Accounts Department. She said there was a spark from the internet box which led to the fire when power was restored. Ogunbanke added that only the Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment in the department got burnt. Meanwhile, the Lagos State Fire Service yesterday joined its counterparts all over

the world to mark this year’s International Firefighters Day with the extension of its fire advocacy awareness to schools and streets. The move was to create fire safety consciousness in the minds of the youngsters across the state and celebrate the heroes who died in active service. Speaking during the walk across Ikeja, being part of activities lined up for the celebration of the day, Fadipe bemoaned the increasing rate of fire incidents in recent times.

METRO

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Truck crushes schoolgirls in Ilorin Biodun Oyeleye and Sola Adeyemo

water tanker yesterday killed two schoolgirls and injured two others at Ipata Market area of Ilorin, Kwara State. Unconfirmed reports claimed that the victims were JSS 1 students of Government Day Girls Secondary School, Oke Suna, Ilorin, the state capital. They were said to have been sent on an errand to the markt by one of their teachers. Ipata Market is located around the school. It was learnt that the incident, which occurred about 11a.m., was caused by brake failure. The truck rammed into the schoolgirls who were walking on the road leading to

the market. According to witnesses, said one of the children died immediately, while the second one later gave up the ghost while being attended to by passers-by at the scene. They added that the other two others, who sustained serious injuries, were rushed to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH). The state Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Sunday Maku, said investigations had commenced on the accident. Moved by the sight of the accident, youths around the area embarked on a spontaneous protest during which they damaged some vehicles. Meanwhile, Governor, Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State yesterday condoled

The scene of an accident

with his Kano counterpart, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on the death of eight students of Kano origin in an accident which occurred around Iroko village on Oyo Road on Tuesday. Ajimobi described the incident as highly depressing to him and the people of the state. In the auto crash where the driver also died, sixteen students and their teachers were returning to Kano after representing the state in a quiz competition in Lagos. Seven of the students were said to have died on the spot, while one out of the nine rescued from the scene, was said to have died a few hours after arriving at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. Ajimobi had visited the eight surviving victims of the accident at the Accident and Emergency Ward of the UCH, where he offered to pick their bills until they were discharged from the hospital. He was received by the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Prof. Temitope Alonge, and the Kano State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Kabir Ibrahim, who was said to have arrived in Oyo State on an aircraft to convey the bodies to Kano for burial. Ajimobi said: “This is most unfortunate and depressing to me and the good people of Oyo State. My heartfelt sympathy goes to the governor of Kano State, parents and the loved ones of the dead students and other victims. May their gentle souls rest in perfect peace.”

Erediauwa: Benin gives twoweek ultimatum for burial Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

enin Traditional Council (BTC) yesterday warned that burial ceremonies must hold within the next two weeks in Benin Kingdom, Edo State. BTC, which is the decision-making organ whose core members were drawn mainly from top chiefs of inner caucus of the ancient royal palace, also warned all male indigenes of the kingdom against acts of disobedience and violation of all the restrictions following the death and burial rites of Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa. The Council cautioned that the battle and punishment would be between the gods and ancestors of the kingdom and any male indigene who fails to comply with the observance of all traditional burial rites of the monarch. Members of the council issued two weeks ultimatum to families who lost their loved ones to ensure that burial ceremonies for them were carried out and concluded within the period with effect from yesterday as no such ceremonies would hold in the kingdom at the expiration of the period. The Iyase of Benin Kingdom, Chief Sam Igbe, stated this during a press conference to unfold the obsequies of the monarch. He was with the Esogban of the kingdom, Chief David Edebiri, the Esama of Benin Chief Gabriel Igbinedion and many other top chiefs. Igbe said all male citizens of Benin kingdom, as a rule, were expected to shave their heads with effect from April 29, in obedience to Benin tradition and to honour the late monarch.

12 injured as explosion hits Anambra market

t least 12 people were injured in an explosion on Tuesday at Kara Market on Atani Road, Ogbaru near Onitsha in Anambra State. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ali Okechukwu, said yesterday in Ogbaru that the explosion was caused by fuel stored in a jerrycan. He said: “The explosion was not a bomb as being speculated by people. A jerrycan of petrol that was brought to the settlement exploded around the area

and some people sustained various degrees of burns. “They were taken to various hospitals and are currently receiving treatment. No death was recorded.” Okechukwu said that police had taken control of the situation and advised people to stop panic buying and storage of fuel because of the danger such practice posed in the event of an explosion or fire incident. He said 11 people were injured. However, a witness who is

leader of the settlement, Mr. Sabo Mohammed, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the incident occurred about 8:30p.m. on Tuesday at a restaurant in the market. Mohammed alleged that the explosion might have been from a bomb brought into the market by an unknown person. He said: “An unidentified boy walked into a restaurant with three jerrycans demanding food and left almost immediately without eating the food, leaving the jerrycans behind.

Explosion scene

City Briefs GOC seeks Badagry residents’ cooperation 14 arrested for rival cult groups’ clash Flora Onwudiwe

eneral Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Isidore Edet, has appealed to residents of Badagry to cooperate with unit 243 Recce Battalion, Ibereko and 15 Field Engineer Regiment who have been providing security in Badagry and its environs. Edet made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Akran of Badagry, Setenme of Badagry Kingdom, De Wheno Aholu Menu- Toyi 1 in his palace.

Edet presenting a souvenir to the monarch

The GOC, according to a statement issued by the spokesperson for 81 Division, Lt. Col. Kingsley Samuel, also solicited the support of the Badagry monarch in ensuring good neighbourliness between the residents and soldiers. He expressed appreciation for the peace and cooperation received from indigenes of Badagry and solicited more support and good neighbourliness from the monarch. Edet congratulated Oba Akran of Badagry on his 39th anniversary on the throne. He prayed for long life and peace in his domain during his reign. The GOC thanked the monarch for the warm reception accorded him and his staff officers. In his remarks, Oba Akran of Badagry thanked Edet for the visit. He appreciated all the support and cooperation from the division. The monarch prayed for successful tenure for the GOC. The GOC was on the visit with Commander, 81 Division Intelligence Command, Brigadier General Emeka Onumajuru, Commanding Officer, 243 Recce Battalion, Ibereko, Col. A. Garba and Commander, 81 Division Provost Group, Colonel Abubakar Garba.

Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

olice in Benue State yesterday paraded 14 suspected cult members arrested in connection with rival cult clash in Otukpo, which left three people dead and five others injured. The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Paul Yakadi, told journalists that the suspected cult members were nabbed in Otukpo following an intelligence report. Yakadi, who spoke through the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Moses Yamu, listed items recovered from the suspects to include one red unregistered Jingcheng motorcycle, three locally-made pistols and three cartridges. Other items were one 7.62mm

live ammunition, two car stereos, one Army camouflage uniform, one white beret, two charms, some wraps of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp and one Ford bus used in conveying some of the cult members. There was, however, confusion as some of the suspects denied any involvement in cult activities. But the police chief insisted that they did serious homework before arresting the suspects. He said: “We did not just pick innocent people on the streets because our intelligence unit did its job well. We acted on the list that was given to us and picked the suspects. A criminal will never agree that he is a criminal until he is caught red-handed.” Yakadi added that the suspects would soon be charged to court.

10 News|SOUTH-WEST

Osun doctors raise the alarm as LAUTEC sacks members Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

ssociation of Resident Doctors at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Osogbo yesterday raised the alarm that some of their colleagues had been relieved of their posts by the management of the hospital. President of the Association, Dr. Adeyinka Owolabi, who made this known during a press conference in Osogbo, described the act as callous and inhuman. He urged well-meaningful Nigerians to appeal to the Rauf Aregbesola-led administration to stop victimising resident doctors in the state. He said: “It is unfortunate that the state government and their representative have taken to blackmail, intimidation and victimisation of our members but this will not deter us from fighting for our legitimate right.” It will be recalled that the resident doctors have since seven months ago embarked on an indefinite

strike action over nonpayment of the salaries and other accumulated arrears. The association however maintained that there would be no going back on the strike action until their demands were met. According to Owolabio, “the ongoing strike by the resident doctors will continue until all pending issues are resolved.” He stated that every attempt made by some stakeholders within and outside the state to resolve the issues had failed and charged President Mohammadu Buhari to prevail on the matter to avoid health problem in the state. When contacted, the CMD of LAUTECH, Prof. Akeem Lasisi, said “the sacking followed the forensic audit carried out in the hospital and it was not targeted at the resident doctors alone. “The sacking has nothing to do with the strike embarked on by the ARD since September 28th, 2015 as those asked to go had overstayed the duration of their residency programme.”

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Grazing zones negate economic principle, says OYCIMMA Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

resident Oyo State Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OYCCIMA), Olaitan Alabi, has urged the National Assembly to discountenance the idea of creating grazing zones for hersdmen in any state, describing it as a negation of the principle of economic equality. Alabi, who said this while briefing journalists in Ibadan ahead of the Annual General Meeting of the organization, said creating grazing zones was not the solution to the menace of Fulani herdsmen’s attack on farmers. “Fulani herdsmen are predominantly nomadic people, and who will release their lands for the gracing purpose when the business is profit-oriented for the cattle owners? If the Federal

Government would legislate the creation of grazing zones for herdsmen in states, would they do same for cattle owners in the South West also? He however counseled that “all cattle rearers should get their lands and raise ranches there. There are many cattle rearers in this region of ours and they know how they manage their cattle such that they are kept in ranches and would not constitute any nuisance to farmers around them.” He went on: “Let the Fulani herdsmen also purchase lands and raise ranches there for their cattle. There, they can get their foods to feed them. Even, if the state government provides grazing zones for them, it is not a guarantee that Fulani cattle would not stray out to farms. “Everybody should be allowed to carry out his animal business according to the law of the land.

The nuisance the cattle create on the roads is unacceptable. Certain time, I was in a vehicle along Oke Ogun area and when these cattle were crossing a narrow road, we had to wait for about an hour before they all passed. This should be discouraged.” He however appealed to the Agbekoya Farmers Association who last week threatened to contain Fulani herdsmen by force should they again attack anybody in the South West, saying, “two wrongs cannot make a right.” He said: “Our farmers should be cautious about how they handle this matter lest it escalate into another civil war. The

N2.08bn

The total revenue of 2015 Government Quarterly Actually Collection from Stamp Duty for the 2015 Q3. Source: Firs.gov.ng

security agents should be alive to this situation and President Muhammadu Buhari should live up to his promise to deal with anybody who henceforth foments any sectarian trouble anywhere as effective and efficient security system is the sine qua non for the promotion of business investment climate within any area in the country.” Alabi counseled Governor Ajimobi to explore alternative means to power generation to ease the plight of business people and artisans whose trades are being seriously affected by the epileptic power supply in the state. He said: “The ultimate solution that can guarantee steady and reliable power supply is for Oyo state government to explore the utilization of alternative and renewable energy sources of power generation like solar, wind, coal or hydro.

Ekiti health workers seek CMD’s removal Sulaiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti

orkers of the various unions at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti (FETHI) have insisted the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Hospital, Dr. Lawrence Majekodunmi Ayodele must vacate his position for another person. Chairman of FETHI branch of the Senior Staff Association (SSA), Akinlolu Adetula, said the workers were tired of the administration of Ayodele as workers no longer had confidence in him. He said: “We will be able

to discharge our duty effectively when there is peace and as long as Dr L.M. Ayodele is within FETHI, there cannot be peace. Ayodele was not the first CMD and we have CMDs in other hospitals, who have good working relationship with their staff.” Branch chairman of Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Julius Ayodele, noted the Ido community and the hospital workers had no reason to oppose one another, urging the community to overlook whatever shortcomings displayed during the last protest.

Ajimobi condoles with Ganduje over loss of 8 students in road mishap yo State Governor, quiz competition in Lagos. Senator Abiola AjiO Seven of the students mobi, has condoled with were said to have died his Kano State counterpart, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, following the death of eight secondary students of the state origin in an accident along Iroko road, in Ibadan, Oyo State. The accident was said to have occurred on Tuesday while 16 students and their teachers were returning to Kano after representing the state in a

on the spot, while one of the nine rescued from the scene, was said to have died a few hours after arriving at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. The governor described the accident, which also reportedly claimed the life of the driver of the bus conveying the students, as highly depressing to him and the people of the state.

L-R: Chief Medical Director, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Prof. Temitope Alonge; Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi and Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, UCH, Prof. Adefemi Afolabi, during the governor’s visit to the hospital... yesterday

Lagos unveils N49bn first medical park Muritala Ayinla

s part of efforts to check medical tourism and improve health care delivery services, the Lagos State Government yesterday approved the construction of the first medical park in Nigeria at a cost of N49 billion. New Telegraph yesterday gathered that the multi-billion naira project which would serve as a one stop shopping medical experience is expected to be completed in 20 months. The facility, according to the state government

would comprise of a central management area, clinic complex, theatre complex and procedure rooms, ward complex, conference and seminar complex medical goods and lifestyle shopping centre, stress management and lifestyle improvement unit, data cabling/ integrated IT system, structured landscaping, residential accommodation, staff quarters, hotel, emergency and ambulance service, trauma unit, helipad amongst other things. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris made the disclosure while briefing journal-

ists at the State House, Ikeja, Lagos, saying that the state was not putting any money on the project as it was purely a Public-Private Partnership, (PPP) project. Its major contribution to the project, Idris said was to provide the land, which was the old Nursing School in Ikoyi, measuring about two acres. He explained that project development was awarded to MEDIPARK International Limited Consortium which comprises of MEDIPARK International Limited, Cleveland Clinics Ohio USA, St. Barnabas Healthcare System New Jersey

and American Hospital Management Company Washington DC. Government had last year placed adverts in national dailies for Expressions of Interest for a development of a Medical Park aimed at ensuring qualitative healthcare delivery to Lagosians. About 16 companies/ consortiums responded to the advertisement after which an Evaluation Committee was set up in line with the State procurement guidelines with individuals comprising both statutorily mandated members and officers invited to lend technical depth to the exercise.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Odumakin Only restructuring of Nigeria’ll bring change

Politics Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Bishop Matthew Kukah, during a recent visit to the United States, spoke with The Christian Science Monitor about the progress Nigeria has made in its fight against Boko Haram, some of the nation’s challenges, and what needs to be done to solve them. Excerpts:

Majority of the news the West receives on Nigeria is about Boko Haram. How important is the insurgency in the broader context of what Nigeria is facing? Everywhere you turn everybody is talking about Boko Haram, which is important, but I think it is only important in relation to a long history of activities. The unfortunate thing is that people are not asking the question, where did Boko Haram come from? What really created the conditions for it? I think it is important to understand that in relation to the larger issues that have brought us to where we are today. Boko Haram is often translated as ‘Western education is forbidden.’ What are some of the factors that have contributed to its rise? You have the suspicion within the Muslim community that has always tried to equate Western education with Christianity, which is what Boko Haram has capitalised on. So, you have some of that subtext. But if you look at Boko Haram, it is also based on the fact that the way the state has treated Christianity predisposed Boko Haram to exploit that narrative. If you are refusing to give Christians land to build churches; if you are refusing to give Christians land to build schools; if you are refusing to allow Christian religious education to be taught in schools; if you are denying Christians access to the media commensurate to what you are giving Muslims, what

FELIX NWANERI

GROUP PoLITICAL EDITOR nwanerif@yahoo.com

Interview Era of career politicians as governor over – Adeogun

12 13

APC’s biggest problem is communication – Kukah They are Christian schools to the extent that they are built by Christians, but if you go to any of my schools that has 100 children, it is likely that 60 percent of those are going to be Muslims. Even if we have five Muslim children, in our school, we try to provide to have someone teach them Islamic education. The problem with the Koranic education in northern Nigeria is that it was never designed to manage pluralism. It is the responsibility of the state government to design a curriculum that takes cognisance of these realities and almost deliberately work out how you manage those differences.

Kukah

you’re really saying is that these people are second-class citizens and that their religion is merely being tolerated. While Boko Haram is not yet defeated, the Nigerian military has taken back a lot of territory in the last year. Do you see this as progress and what comes next? Their ability to control Nigerian territory has been severely constrained, but as you know the end of the war is the easy part. It is what happens the day after that becomes very difficult to deal with. The next thing now is the millions of people who have been displaced in the last four years or so. Now, it requires more than just goodwill to take people back. These guys are spread across the length and breadth of northern Nigeria. They need to bring these people back to their homes, to bring them back to their farms, because 95 per cent of these people are farmers. It is most likely that Boko Haram has planted landmines and all kinds of things, so getting people back to work and so on is difficult. You have emphasised education as an important means of preventing the kind of conditions that harbour extremism and for unifying the nation. Can you expand on that?

There is absolutely no doubt that everyone in Nigeria wants a united Nigeria

I am explaining to the governors that we have about 10 to 15 million young kids who are out of school or on the streets across the 11 or 12 states in northern Nigeria. This is a time bomb. The government doesn’t have the quality of schools that guarantee these children become functional citizens. The truth of the matter is that the Christians have a great advantage because you can say that 60 to 70 percent of the literate people in Nigeria are Christians. Now the percentage of Muslims in northern Nigeria who are educated: You are probably looking at 10 percent or less. In a country that is developing, such a huge number of uneducated and unskilled people will mean a combustible environment from where Boko Haram and all these agents of violence will continue to feed. So, the real challenge for me is how the Muslim community will have to come to terms with the reality that there’s no substitute to education. In Sokoto Diocese, which includes the states of Katsina, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto; we have 22 nursery, primary and secondary schools. Part of the problem is that they are all on church premises because the government has almost blatantly refused to allocate land to Christians.

One year ago, the peaceful handover to the new Muhammadu Buhari government was considered a milestone, but Nigeria still faces challenges on many fronts. What does his government need most to focus on to move the country forward? I think the greatest problem the government has is in its inability to effectively communicate with citizens. For me, it would be to say: ‘Look, first of all we are happy we are in a democracy, we will make mistakes. We are not going to work miracles. This is how we hope to get to where we want to get to.’ My view is that the next thing would have been to have a correct narrative to summon Nigerians to say look: ‘Now Boko Haram is behind us, can we now rebuild our country?’ There were those who were very skeptical about [Buhari’s] ability to develop an integral programme that would hold Christians and Muslims together. The problem with Nigeria is we desire that, but we have not thought through how that could happen. The beauty of Nigeria is that in 1990 there was a coup attempt, and the only reason the coup did not succeed was because those who organised the coup said they were going to cut off the 12 states of the North and suspend them from Nigeria. The Nigerian people said ‘no, we don’t want to be separated.’ This was 20 years after we had fought a civil war to keep our country one. So, there is absolutely no doubt that everyone in Nigeria wants a united Nigeria. You have to pull down certain laws and cultural practices. Shouldn’t every Nigerian citizen be free to marry whom they want? Marriage is one of the fundamental institutions for welding nations together. If it is against your religion, we have a constitution that is supreme and it is more important than any religious constitution.

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

Yinka Odumakin is the National Publicity Secretary of panYoruba Socio-Cultural Organisation, Afenifere. In this interview with WALE AJAYI, he speaks on the All Progressives Congress (APC) government and the menace of Fulani herdsmen, among other contending national issues Nigerians are nursing the fear that, the way things are going they may not get what they bargained for in President Muhammadu Buhari administration. Do you share the same feeling? The fear is genuine, my greatest worry, however, is not even about broken promises or unrealised expectations, because since 1960, we have gotten accustomed to politicians and military coming to power, making all kinds of promises not delivered, but the greatest danger today is the fear of losing the country, which is very real. What do you mean by that? After the last general elections, there was an article in New York Times about the election, in which the writer looked at the map of the elections, and said that at this stage, Nigeria needs a reconstructive surgeon and not a bulldozer. I must say he was very apt. The way Nigeria is today, Nigeria need a reconstructive surgery, we need inclusiveness, we have to bring all the centrifugal forces to the table, we need to address nationhood. Well it is good we are fighting corruption and the rest, but experience has shown that during the dispositional of Nigerians all those things can only be momentarily. There is no way we can fight corruption in this country, without first solving the nationhood problem, because it is not an accident that all what you need to do today is for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to take five, six people to court, for certain interest of the country, there is no sense of nationhood yet, and we are not addressing that. Added to that, is what is going on now among the Fulani herdsmen, which has become much more potent and serious than even Boko Haram, killing people at will, from Agatu to Oke Ogun, Akure, Ubuluku and Enugu. The Fulani herdsmen have constituted themselves to menace and have become much more audacious in the last one year. How can we be shedding the blood of our citizens because we want to eat cow? I think the authority at the moment, is not taking this issue very seriously. The issue has to be addressed frontally, all what we heard was what Lai Mohammed said; that the presidency has ordered the Inspector General of Police to look for this and that. That is not addressing the issue. Are we saying that we should continue to

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Only restructuring of Nigeria’ll bring change – Odumakin look for the people and await the next point of attack? Something has to be done drastically to curtail the menace of these herdsmen who have become terror to everyone except the Fulanis. We expect the president to issue a statement on this matter to reassure Nigerians, he once told Nigerians that ‘I belong to everybody, I belong to no one.’ The president belongs to the farmers, tailors, artisans, not only the cattle rearers, and if one group becomes a threat to every other section of the Nigerian society then they should do something about them. Buhari’s administration will clock one year in office on May 29. How will you assess it? I think in the last one year, we have seen some attempts to restore public morality in terms of fighting corruption, but beyond that, not much has been done in terms of addressing the fundamentals of the economy, because our economy today is in comatose. We don’t have an economic team as we talk. We don’t see direction; many companies have pulled out of Nigeria, just this morning I read about two banks, recording losses. Very soon, these banks will begin to drop their workers, and this will have a multiplier effect on the economy. The foreign exchange policy of the government has really done a lot of harm to the economy because, instead of allowing naira to find its value, they are holding on and saying they are pegging the naira to official rate. Most Nigerians buy their dollar at the parallel market, while only a few business men get it at the official rate, and all what they are doing is round tripping. Look, if we get the economy right, oil can sell at $10 per barrel. Let’s get the power sector right, let there be light, if there is light economic activities will be going on, and people will be making money. It is obvious that the government is concentrating more on the fight against corruption. Do you see it winning the war or is it just a vindictive mea-

Odumakin

There is no way we can fight corruption... without first solving the nationhood problem

sure against perceived opponents? I believe that there is a whole lot of drama about the anti -corruption fight. We have seen a lot of media trials, salacious cases, but unfortunately, in all of these, some scapegoats are being dealt with. Yet, one can see clearly that there are some people who have been accused of worst corruption, who are being promoted in government, who are occupying strategic places in government today. That tells you that for as much as this situation remains the way it is, there is no way you can fight corruption holistically, because you first of all have to start with the restructuring of the electoral system. To become president, governor or anything, you need billions of naira. Honest fund cannot give anybody victory, so you need to live on slush, corrupt funds, and you cannot bite the finger that fed you. So, until we begin to do institutional reforms, first to ensure that you don’t have to get this heavy cost to get to office, for as long as we have that, it is not going to be possible to fight corruption across board. We are selective, it is only those whose corruption did not benefit you that you are going to fight, but more importantly is the fact that we are not attacking the architecture of corruption. So far we have architecture of corruption in place, what you are going to have is what we had under Umaru Yar’Adua, when Joshua Dariye, wrote to him to say that his loot has been looted. It is more productive to begin to rebuild our institutions to ensure that it is more difficult for people to steal money the way they are doing now. We also need to address issue of revenue allocation. You keep 24 per cent of the budget in Abuja, what is Abuja doing with that kind of money? They will steal it. You cannot deal with corruption by saying you are fighting it, without attacking the root cause of it, if you don’t attack the architect of corruption there is little you can achieve. Many Nigerians voted for the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2015 elections because of the Change mantra. Do you see any difference between the Peoples

Democratic Party (PDP) and APC? There is no difference, it is a continuation. In fact, that is why some of us said before the election that there is no change that is going to come by just replacing one person with another, that the only change that can come is by restructuring the country. The people in APC, were they cloned? There is this thing they say about 16 years of PDP misrule and the rest. I just laugh because the whole of APC is a photocopy of the PDP. During the last general elections, there were governorship elections in 30 states. In those 30 states, 20 of the governorship candidates APC fielded were formerly in PDP. So it is interesting when you talk of 16 years of PDP. Half of the 16 years were run by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who are now in APC. Who is who in APC today minus Buhari, were formerly in PDP, so it is all bogey and deception. Nothing is going to change. Are they going to clone people? How can you rearrange something and call it new? They flooded APC from PDP and they got power, so nothing has changed. There is a lull in the economy and Nigerians are now worried over whether the government in power has what it takes to revive the economy So far, they have not shown that there is a clear agenda about the economy. It is not that we don’t have enough resources that can be harnessed; there should be a clear policy direction. If they want to get the economy right, they have to get the right policies in place, address the fundamentals of the economy and come to terms with reality. And we must do all that is necessary to get the economy right. If you get the economy right, so many other things will be right. You can’t just assume that the economy will fix itself. But clearly as at today, there is no direction. What is your view on the standoff between the Presidency and the National Assembly over passage of the 2016 budget? It was clear that the executive apparently did not put its house in order. I have listened to the argument about the Lagos-Calabar rail project allegedly removed from the budget only to discover that it was not in the original budget proposal. It was the Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, who took a piece of paper to the National Assembly and presented it to the president. When Amaechi was governor of Rivers State, does his commissioner just take a piece of paper state Assembly and say this must be added to the budget? It does not happen, and that has created this kind of needless crisis. We are now in May without the budget. Clearly, we have lost this year. If a budget is for road, the raining season is coming, which road do you want to fix? They should start planning for the 2017 budget because there can’t be any serious performance for this budget anymore.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Adejoro Adeogun, a retired intelligence officer and former Chief Executive Officer of Rivers State Waste Management Agency, is an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Ondo State. He speaks, in this interview with FELIX NWANERI, on his vision for the state if elected governor. Excerpts: You are taking a shot at the governorship of Ondo State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). What informed your decision to throw your hat into the ring? In my quest to give back to a nation, which has given me opportunities to excel, I drove round the entire length and breadth of Ondo State in November 2015. What struck me was the level of poverty, the level of neglect of a people so blessed with material and human resources. I was ashamed that those who were given opportunity to serve our state paid lip service to the development of the state and deceived our people with cosmetic projects designed to keep our people in perpetual servitude. It was in the course of touring the state that it occurred to me that the best way to give back was to give my service. I can only make token individual contribution through the blessings that God has given me but I can do a lot and help to restore prosperity to our state through my service to the people. How would you rate your chances, as a green horn, compared to heavyweights in the race with you? My chances are very bright. In the first place, the people of Ondo State are tired of the old brigades who were at different times part of those who ruined the state. Secondly, I am working with a team of very dedicated party members and we are taking our campaign directly to the people. Since our intention is to serve the people, we are leaving no stone unturned in our quest to knock on every door and spread our message of prosperity directly to the people. I like to draw an analogy between what we are doing and what Leicester football Club is doing in the English Premier League in the 2015/2016 season. They were not in anyone’s reckoning at the onset of the season yet through hard work, a good coaching team and a different tactical approach, Leicester have won the Premiership even before the end of the season. So, who says a green horn cannot win Ondo State governorship election? Let us have a peep at your background and political history. I am a foundation member of the All Progressive Congresss (APC). Incidentally APC is the first political platform I have had the privilege of joining. I have been involved in governance in Rivers State from the onset of the present

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

Era of career politicians as governor over – Adeogun

through provision of infrastructure that would have direct bearing on economic activities. Our goal is to ensure that every kobo of state fund is employed in ways that render economic value and enhances prosperity. We will address the issue of underemployment of our youths through entrepreneurial education and skills acquisition, mentoring and seeds funds for business incubation. We will also utilize our geographical positioning as the center point between the SouthSouth and the markets of Lagos. Being a peaceful state, Ondo offers a unique advantage for those who seek refuge from the insecurities in the Niger Delta and the high cost of doing business in Lagos, hence we will develop industrial and warehouse infrastructure to encourage operators in the hydro carbon industry as well as traders from the South-East to establish logistic bases.

Adeogun

democratic dispensation, serving in different capacities under former Governors Peter Odili and Chibuike Amaechi. My last public service appointment was as Chief Executive Officer of Rivers State Waste Management Agency. I was a member of the Rivers State APC Campaign Committee during the 2015 elections and I chaired one of the sub-committees. Before then I had been involved in running political campaigns, especially between 2003 and 2011 as a nonpartisan person. I also had the privilege of serving our beloved country meritoriously as an intelligence officer, and I am proud to say that I was one of the best among my peers until 2007, when I disengaged to pursue personal business aspirations. As a beneficiary of God’s grace, I have made a success of my business endeavour, helping in the creation of jobs and bringing prosperity to the homes of my employees and associates. I have a wide public and private sector experience premised on a sound educational foundation. I obtained education from the Manchester Business School, United Kingdom; University of Ibadan; United States Merchant Marine Academy, New York as well as several specialized training required during my service to the nation. I must say that I do not have a long history of involvement in politics but I do have a rich history of involvement in governance and service delivery. I am not aspiring to be a politician but seeking the mandate of the people of my state to offer service to a state that has

been raped repeatedly by career politicians.

The people of Ondo State are tired of the old brigades who were... part of those who ruined the state

What plans do you have for the people of the Sunshine State if you get elected as governor? In the course of our interactions with the people as we campaign, we have come to a realisation that a large section of our people live in abject poverty, similar to the internally displaced people in the North-East. If through the grace of God we get the mandate to serve, our focus would be creation of wealth. A state can only be viable if it stands on sound economic footing. So, we will address the root of poverty, which in our opinion, is the neglect of agriculture. Our plan is to start a revolution that will make Ondo State the Cocoa capital of the world. Our immediate plan is to liaise with research institutions to introduce improved cocoa seedlings, help our farmers with farming inputs, support extension services and encourage them to form cooperative societies, so that resources can be pooled and risk and return shared. We will train and support younger people to take advantage of opportunities in the cocoa value chain. We will take similar actions to encourage farming in yam, plantain and cassava which are traditional crops planted by our people. We will invest in green houses and use them as training grounds for younger farmers who at the end of their training would be aided to embark on greenhouse farming in every part of the state. Beside this, we will provide an enabling environment for businesses to thrive

What is your take on the controversies trailing the 2016 budget? The controversy is one of the outcomes of the imperfections in our democratic practice. The fact is that imperfections in budgeting is not new, but in time past, the system had a way of solving it through a system of ‘I rub your back and you rub my back.’ Why the fault lines are public knowledge is the absence of this ‘gentlemen agreement.’ I believe that it would be resolved and the experience would only make our democracy stronger How would you assess the outgoing administration of Governor Olusegun Mimiko in Ondo State? I think Dr. Mimiko tried his best within the limit of his knowledge, but suffice to say that when a leader surrounds himself with Lilliputians, he can only tower above the dwarfs around him not the giants elsewhere. Would you be ready to give your support to whoever emerges as the APC candidate in the primaries? I am a democrat. Even though I am almost certain of victory, I will support any other candidate, who emerges, if it is the wish of party members and people of Ondo State. The caveat is that such person must emerge through a democratic process. How would you assess the performance of the APC-led Federal Government so far? The President has done well given the peculiarities of the Nigerian environment and the global economic climate. He met a rotten political culture of rent seeking and corruption, so one would not expect him to make changes without a fight from the establishment. The foundation he is laying for ethical reorientation and value change would make our nation better going forward. The renewed emphasis on agriculture, import substitution and home-made products will set the stage for the diversification of our economy.

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

Alhaji Shuaibu Ado Dansudu is the National President of Arewa United Consultative Forum (AUCF). In this interview with TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE, he speaks on insecurity across the country, the Muhammadu Buhari administration and anti-corruption war

It is almost a year that President Muhammadu Buhari was sworn into office but many Nigerians are complaining that they are yet to witness the change they voted for. What is your take on that? Some of those complaining about Buhari’s government are enemies of progress. The most important thing for a nation is to have peace and when there is peace, people would be comfortable. We can all see that the Buhari government has tried a lot to ensure that there is peace in the country. We should thank God for that. The economy problem the country is facing today is not about Nigeria alone; it is a global issue. During former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan administrations, the price of crude oil was about $140 per barrel but now it is about $40. You can see the gap. So, there is no way you can compare a government that earned about $150 billion to the one earning about $40 billion. The difference is very wide and those in government when crude oil was selling for $150 per barrel did not perform to public expectation. Despite the huge amount of money made by Nigeria during that period, there is nothing tangible to show for it in terms of road construction, power supply, adequate health care facilities, food and many others. Are you saying that President Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) should not to be blamed for the present economic situation in the country? How can President Buhari be blamed? It is not his fault; it is what he met on ground. If Jonathan administration has steered the ship of the country very well and managed public funds, we ought to have some money in our foreign reserves, which President Buhari would have used to manage the country’s economy at this crucial period. But he met an empty treasury because some of those who served in his administration looted the treasury and stashed the money in foreign countries. But the President is doing a lot to recover some of the looted funds, I wonder why some people are criticising him over foreign trips. Why won’t he travel when he met an empty treasury? I believe those making noise about the president’s foreign trips are either relatives or associates of those who looted the public treasury. I heard that when President Buhari travelled to Dubai, many Nigerians, who served under Jonathan, left

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Dansudu: Nigerians should give Buhari more time

and property, considering the insecurity problem in the country. I don’t see anything wrong with the herdsmen going about with AK 47 rifles and weapons to defend themselves and their property, considering that they operate both day and night, passing bushes and meeting different dangerous animals and armed robbers on the road. I believe those who want to be robbing Fulani are those kicking against the herdsmen carrying weapons to defend themselves and their cows. Looking at the propaganda trailing the attacks, I am also of the view that it may be an attack on President Buhari and the APC government. Many of the Fulani are APC members and if the propaganda against the Fulani succeeds and the APC government takes serious action against the Fulani, definitely the Fulani will go against the party and they will not support it in future elections. President Buhari is a Fulani and because of that some people are spreading lies to cause problem for the incumbent administration. Since President Buhari succeeded in fighting Boko Haram, some people are planning to cause another trouble to divert government’s attention.

Dansudu

Dubai because they were afraid of being probed. I also heard recently that some of our looted funds stashed in foreign countries are going to be returned. I believe Nigeria is going to benefit from the President’s foreign trips. In fact, we have started benefitting from the trips already because the present administration has been able to negotiate with some countries on how to recover the looted funds. I believe the president is doing his best and I will appeal to Nigerians to give him more time for things to be okay in the country. I also believe that the government working on the electricity problem, which people are complaining of, and very soon Nigeria will start having stable power supply. The railway is not working today because some people looted from the Nigeria Railway Corporation. Buhari’s government is trying; we should give him more time. Some of the problems in Nigeria today were caused by some officials of the previous administration, who created avenues for their cronies to squander public funds and loot the treasury. Many people used public office to illegally enrich themselves. You raised issues about stolen wealth, how would you describe the ongoing probe of some officials of the immediate past government over corruption related issues, and the views of some people that the probe is selective? I don’t believe the anti-corruption war is selective because there is nothing secret about the activities of the anti-graft agencies. Some of those facing corruption charges today are been tried based on evidences against them. The

anti-graft war is not selective; if it is selective, the Senate president, Bukola Saraki, who is a member of the APC, will not be standing trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). If it is selective, how can government probe the third citizen of the country? If anybody has any evidence of corruption against anybody, he should present it to the anti-graft agencies and they will work on it because the incumbent government is not biased.

The President is doing a lot to recover some of the looted funds, I wonder why some people are criticising him

What is your take on the incessant attacks on farmers in different parts of the country by Fulani herdsmen? I really want to sympathise with those who were wounded and families of those who lost their lives in different attacks across the country, especially the recent attacks in Benue and Enugu states. I see what is happening as a war against northerners because whatever happened to Fulani happens to Hausa. Fulani herdsmen have been carrying out their lawful business for many years, why are they having problems with people from other parts of the country now? I believe something is fishy about the Fulani herdsmen issue and I will appeal to the government to do a proper investigation to find out the root cause of the attacks. In recent time, some people are raising issue about Fulani herdsmen going about with AK 47 rifles. I see the campaign against herdsmen using weapons as robbery by tricks and plan by some people to create an avenue to start robbing the Fulani people. I believe people going about with properties worth millions of naira should do everything possible to protect their lives

Are you justifying the killings? Fulani people cannot just attack people until they attempt to steal their cows, attack or kill them. I believe whatever the Fulani herdsmen may have done is based on retaliation. There is no way they can attack people without anybody attacking them because I find it difficult to believe how they will leave thousands of cows worth millions of naira and start attacking people. It is not possible to leave their cows and start attacking people. Before the attacks in Agatu and Enugu, there was a video on Youtube on how some youths and Fulani were burnt alive. How do you think the crisis can be resolved to avert more shedding of blood? People should stop attacking Fulani herdsman. Before, if cows entered farms and destroyed farms products, they usually report the herdsmen to the police or district heads. And after reporting them, they will find out the cost of what the cows destroyed and the herdsmen will pay. They used to pay and even if they don’t have money, they usually sell their cows to pay. But now the Fulani herdsmen are attacking people based on retaliation because of how people attacked and killed them and their cows. The Fulani hardly forgive and if anybody attacks them or steal their cows, they will retaliate. You cannot kill a Fulani man and go scot free, even if it takes them 10 years, they will still retaliate. So, I will advise people to stop challenging and killing the Fulanis. They should also stop robbing them. I will also appeal to northern leaders to come out and talk about the Fulani herdsmen issue. They should not leave it for Meyatti Allah Cattle Breeders Association alone.

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

The member representing Nsukka East Constituency in Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Chinedu Nwamba, in this interview with KENNETH OFOMA, speaks on his bill on nomadic cattle rearing and how it will eliminate killings by herdsmen

What motivated you to present a bill on nomadic cattle rearing in the first place? What inspired me to come up with the bill, which entitled ‘Bill for a law to make provisions for the control of nomadic cattle rearing in Enugu State and other matters related thereto,’ is to control cattle rearing business in the state. It is also because of the incessant killings and destructions of crops and property of the people of Enugu State; the incessant kidnappings and armed robbery perpetrated by these herdsmen in Enugu. In 2012, when I came on board, I moved a motion directing the security agencies and other agencies in the state to monitor the activities of herdsmen in Enugu State. But after the motion, which the whole House supported, nothing came out from it, and the heinous acts continued. In 2014, I presented a bill in that regard, and it passed through the first reading, second reading and public hearing, where for the first time, people from all walks of life came and made contributions. We conducted the public hearing for three consecutive days for the first time in the history of the Assembly. The traditional rulers, towns’ union presidents and their secretaries, councilors then, religious leaders, stakeholders in cattle farming business and every other person that is interested were all there and made their contributions. Initially I suggested grazing areas in the 17 local government areas of the state but the public spoke and said they wouldn’t want Enugu State to give out their land to any cattle farmer; that the best way is to adopt how it is done in other place of the world. Even the College of Agriculture Iwolo, came and demonstrated to the cattle farmers how it is done outside Nigeria. So, everybody proposed ranches. That was what made me in representing the bill. I am actually about to represent it, I have done a publication in the national dailies and in trying to represent it, I did a very thorough job. I

How to curb herdsmen killings, by lawmaker

they will not renew your license and you pack out from there. Individuals also have the right to own ranches on the approval of the Ministry of Agriculture. Even cooperative societies can go into cattle rearing. Do you think that this bill won’t clash with the federal law if it is passed into law? Well the federal law supersedes that of the state, but in the meantime, before the federal law comes out, we need to protect our people; we need to do something that will make our people feel protected. From my research, people are no longer going to their farm in Enugu State because of the fear of cattle farmers. This is a very dangerous trend that is about happening to the Igbos because nobody is free to go to farm again. In no distant time, we are going to face hunger because of incessant attacks by the Fulani herdsmen on our people. And the major cause of these actions of these people is because they are allowed to move from one place to another. If they are restricted from moving from one place to another, they will not see anybody to rob, they won’t see people to kidnap, they won’t see crops to destroy.

Nwamba

also sampled opinions of many Enugu State indigenes before publishing this bill. What has been the response of the people since the bill was publicised? It is still a bill, and you will see where it is was stated that “this bill which will in due course be introduced in the Enugu State House of Assembly for enactment is published so that any person who has any comment on all or any of the provisions may submit same to the Clark of the House of Assembly. Since then I have been getting calls from a lot of Nigerians, commending the bill. But some will tell you that they don’t agree with Section 5 – the provision of ranches in each of the senatorial districts of the state. They argued that is an indirect way of also giving the land to the people who are into cattle farming. One even called me from Lagos and said that one has to buy land if one wants to enter into farming business. I tried to let them know that we are not giving any land; government is just trying to acquire this land to make our people who don’t have enough land for their own private ranches to go into it, and start thinking of venturing into cattle rearing business or farming in the state. And even the land still belongs to the government and the community, and government owns 70 per cent of any revenue that is accruable from that land and the community will own 30 per cent.

We are going to face hunger because of incessant attacks by the Fulani herdsmen

So, it is not as if we are giving up our land, I am totally against giving out land to any cattle farmer in Enugu in terms of grazing reserve. What we are trying to do is to let the people know, conscientise our people, we want to encourage people. There was this message I got recently, where somebody was telling us how much cattle meat the Igbos consume every day, on weekly basis, from burial, from gifts, from thanksgiving and others. I don’t know how he got it. At the end of the day, he summed it up that the whole of the South-East pay about N4.8 billion every day to these cattle rearers. He was trying to let the people know, that they (Igbos) can venture into this business. Check out when people are making N4.8 billion on daily basis, they can cause any confusion in the country. Farming is a very big business and you know most people don’t have enough land, especially the Igbos to venture into such business but if government can provide ranches in the three senatorial zones if the state, it will encourage a lot of people to go into it. If you go to Section 11 of the bill, you will find out how those who want to acquire land can go about it, the processes they have to go through. You will find out that it is not free; you go for licensing depending on the number of cattle, they will measure the land and give you a portion and there are regulations that will be guiding those ranches. If you violate them, the next year

What is your reaction to the recent attack and killing of people in Nimbo community of the state by suspected Fulani herdsmen? I totally condemn the attack, it is very barbaric, it is inhuman and unacceptable by me and my constituency. If this bill had been in place this thing wouldn’t have happened. If the bill had been enacted as a law, the owners of those cattle will know that there is a law in Enugu State that prohibits cattle rearers from moving from one place to another. And if you must move your cattle from one place to another, it must be through vehicles, maybe from your ranch to the market where you are going to sell them. Are you advising other states Assembly in the South-East to come up with a similar legislation, so that the zone will have a common law on the activities of cattle rearers? Sure, I have advised other legislative arms of government in the South-East to come up with such type of law to protect Ndigbo from attacks by people who are into cattle business. Ndigbo are also cattle rearers, we know that very well, but you don’t see their cattle going out on streets, destroying peoples crops because our people are mainly farmers, and that is how we survive. So I am advising the South Eastern states to come up with a bill or a law that will protect Ndigbo. If we have a common law, the Federal Government would be compelled to come up with a good law that will protect our people because human life is sacred. The life of any human being is worth more than one billion cattle.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion The authoritarian African regimes (1) Turning Point MIKE ARAYUWA WILKIE pmikky1950@yahoo.com 0802-309-7251 (sms only)

uthoritarian leaders and a few liberal dictators are littered all-over the African continent and other parts of the world. The negative ideals of totalitarianism are not confined to military regimes alone just as we can also identify some duly elected civilian presidents and Prime Ministers who are neckdeep in the practical demonstration and concept of crude despotism. Perhaps, it is imperative to add that a few retired Army Officers usually get themselves involved in democratic contests inorder to substantiate the fact that apart from coup plotting, they too, can be entrusted with governance via the free mandate of the people. The question is: why should some persons get to positions of state leaderships and refuse to quit when ovation is loudest or when their tenure of office had lapsed? This is applicable to the erstwhile military officers turned-civilians and the civilians who play politics as if there are no other hopes of survival. Such reasons are not far-fetched. The major causes are based strictly on reprehensible acquisitiveness; insatiable desire for wealth, extreme greed for the primitive accumulation of unmerited wealth and to hold onto political power indefinitely inorder to avoid an ugly situation whereby their thievery activities could be probed and punished if found guilty by their predecessors in office via the required due process in a

court of competent jurisdiction. For the purpose of clarity, it is not possible for me to highlight and expand on all the dictators in Africa and therefore, there is the need to compress it. Consequently, I intend to deal only with about ten most wicked tyrants in the continent of Africa. Idi Amin Dada (1971-1979) of Uganda seized power in a military coup in January 1971. He sacked Dr. Milton Obote, a duly elected President of Uganda from office. At the heat of the Uganda-Tanzania War, Amin fled the country to Libya and finally to Saudi Arabia where he died on August 16, 2003. Actually, it was Milton Obote who pleaded with Julius Nyerere, President of Tanzania to help him flush out Idi Amin and his fellow coup plotters from Uganda. Idi Amin’s brutal rule was characterized by cannibalism, frightening human right abuses, political repression, several extrajudicial killings, corruption and gross economic mismanagement. Colonel Muammar Gaddafi (1969-2011) seized power in a bloodless military coup in 1969. The Libyan Leader was one of the greatest dictators in African history. He met his end during the Libyan revolution of 2011. He was killed by the Libyan rebels in Sirte, his Ancestral home town. Gaddafi quashed anyone who opposed him and he was equally responsible for the death of thousands of his own people. He ruled Libya for 42 years. General Sani Abacha (1993-1998) was Military Head of State of Nigeria. He took over power from Chief Ernest Shonekan, the Head of the Interim Government of Nigeria in 1993 after the criminal annulment of the June 12presidential election of the same year by General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida. In 1998, he died in the presidential villa in a rather by unusual circumstance,

At the heat of the UgandaTanzania War, Amin fled the country to Libya and finally to Saudi Arabia where he died on August 16, 2003

which led to the jubilations of Nigerians, an indication that the man was a deft despot. Also, he was corrupt as his regime was involved in the massive looting of the commonwealth of Nigerians. He killed Ken Saro Wiwa via hanging, including some other Ogoni agitators and leaders. He arrested, killed or jailed political opponents without any due process of the law. Ahmed Sekou Toure was elected as president of Guinea in 1958. He survived many assassination attempts and coup plots. Toure proscribed all opposition parties while his political party was the only one left. He was accused of several cases of human right abuses and extrajudicial killings. President Omar al Bashir has led Sudan since 1989 and he is regarded as one of the most brutal dictators in the continent. He remains as leader despite the warrant of arrest issued against him by the International Court of Justice (ICC). Charges against him include: genocide, war crimes, murder, rape, torture and other crimes against humanity. He is also accused of human right abuses in Darfur, now the capital city of Southern Sudan. He has ruled Sudan for 26 years. Hissene Habre (1982-1990) seized power in 1982 from Goukouni Ouedie in 1982. He lost power to his ex-military commanding officer, Idriss Deby in December 1990. As a result, Harbre fled to Senegal. Records have indicated that 40,000 politically motivated murders were carried out during his regime. He was also accused of 200,000 tortures within a period of eight years in Chad. Macias Nguema (1968-1979) was the first elected President of Equatorial Guinea until he was swept from power by his nephew in 1979. He was sentenced to death by firing squad for genocide and other crimes against his people. He ordered the execution of some families and villages to the extent that he even killed members of his own family. One third of his country’s population fled the country.

Amosun’s Amazing Woman @ 50 Idowu Sowunmi

er willpower and focus to bring out the best in any context she finds herself has tenaciously distinguished her from the rest. She pays attention to details with a primal vision of setting new standards and raising the bar in her humanitarian quests to uplift the mankind. She devotes a considerable part of her time, energy and resources on regular basis to advance the cause of the less privileged and champion initiatives that support the needy in our society. Her dream is aimed at empowering and uplifting the disadvantaged people regardless of their age, education status, religious and political affiliations. Welcome to the world of Mrs. Olufunso Amosun, the Wife of the Governor of Ogun State. Born some 50 years ago on May 2, Mrs. Amosun is joining the elegant circle of Golden Jubilee club. No doubt, 50 is a milestone and clocking the golden age calls for a celebration of some sort. To celebrate this remarkable woman of virtues, I have decided to put this piece together to hitherto showcase the natural values many don’t really know about her.

Working with Mrs. Amosun since January 2012 as one of her close aides has given me the vista of opportunities to know her better and appreciate her genuine passion to assist, support and empower the less privileged and the needy in our society. Beyond her care for the good people of Ogun State, Mrs. Amosun has become a mother figure to many in the government circle in the State, touching their lives with so much compassion outside their official duties. Personally, I was somehow agitated and disturbed over a domestic matter and I couldn’t sleep sometime in February 2013. In my state of restlessness, I picked up my Blackberry phone around 2am and began to fiddle with it: played music, changed my BB Display Picture amongst others. Suddenly Mrs. Amosun sent a message to my phone, asking me why am I not sleeping at this time of the day? I was shocked to my bone marrow. I responded by saying I was trying to get some things sorted out. Dissatisfied, she probed me further: are you sure? And I said yes. I didn’t really want to bother her about my personal challenge. Another touchy encounter I had with Mrs. Amosun was on the 30th

of May, 2013. I got a call from Lagos that my wife was in labour and had just been rushed to the hospital. I asked the caller about the condition of my wife but he was not audible enough. I called my wife severally, no response. I called my mother-inlaw, no answer. I became worried. I glued to my phone moving from one section to another to check who else I could call. I stumbled on the number of our family doctor; called him but he didn’t pick too. My worries increased. So I resigned to fate, hoping for the best. I went to my DP and I wrote: “It’s Well - I Believe, It Will End in Praise.” Immediately, the governor’s wife asked me: “What’s the problem?” Of course, I had no option than to open up that my wife was in labour. She offered some prayers and encouraged me to be calm. About one hour after, I received a call that my wife had just delivered a bouncing baby girl and that my wife and the baby were in good condition. With so much elation, I sent message to the governor’s wife that my family had just been populated with a baby girl. She congratulated me and sent message to my wife. My takeaway: as a caring mother, Mrs. Amosun often feels strongly concerned about the welfare of people around her and she has successfully

extended the same kind gesture to the good people of Ogun State. Mrs. Amosun’s dexterity and compassion to help others is second to none. I was lost momentarily the very first day the governor’s wife said she would be climbing the Mountain Kilimanjaro in Tanzania for the sole aim of raising funds for the victims of the insurgency in the North-East who are scattered across various Internally Displaced Person (IDP) camps in Nigeria. While I was still struggling to come to terms over her decisions, it dawned on me that indeed Mrs. Amosun has a strong-willed empathy spirit to always support the less privileged. No wonder Mrs. Amosun has been using every single opportunity to call on individuals, corporate bodies and any other interested parties to join her in lending a helping hand to the less privileged. This, she often expresses with a Yoruba song: Eni k’eni ti iwo ba ni ipa, l’ati se iranlowo fun ooo, Oun na l’eni keji re, Toju re. This can be literarily translated thus: Endeavour to help the needy you can afford to assist, for such person is your brother or your sister. •Sowunmi, Media Aide to the Wife of the Governor of Ogun State, can be reached via: idowusowunmi@ gmail.com

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

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Russia 2018: Getting it right

hings are not looking up for our football which may suffer further misfortune as the race to the 2018 World Cup in Russia gathers momentum. The way those who live in the Glass House are going many more compatriots especially those whose hearts are not strong enough to bear shocks will be wheeled to the hospital. It is not part of Eagles pedigree to stay away from the Africa Nations Cup two times consecutively since they won that famous first bronze medal at Ethiopia ’76 captained by Blockbuster Aloy Atuegbu. It was not a full squad due to the inability of some Rangers players to fully place country before club. Substantive Skipper Christian Chukwu stayed away as well as first choice keeper Emma Okala . The exceptions were Ikechukwu Ezidinma and Ignatius Ilechukwu. The Eagles soared right from their group games in Dire Dawa. The duo of Baba Otu Mohammed and Kunle Awesu operating from the flanks were voted the tournament’s best wingers. Thompson Usiyen also earned a memorable medal just as he would later move on to further his education in the United states. That same team tutored by Yugoslav, Father Tiko, was good enough for a Montreal Olympic medal before Nigeria withdrew to intensify the fight against apartheid. That outing transformed the national team from the backstreets of recognition to global

attention especially since they crushed the Leopards of Zaire [now Congo Democratic Republic] 4-2. The Congolese were not only defending champions, they were Africa’s sole representatives at the 1974 Mundial in West Germany. From 1976 to 2010, the Eagles were able to win gold , silver and bronze and only missed out of the continental fiesta once, in 1986. Yes once , because it is difficult to fault them for not appearing in 1996 even as defending champions and 1998 respectively. Those were the Golden soccer years of General Sani Abacha. Nigeria was sanctioned by CAF for fail-

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team. Already the Eagles are out of the next Nations Cup following their elimination in the final round of qualifiers by Egypt. The NFF led by Amaju Pinnick should take all the blame for where we have found ourselves. Against the wishes of the people and stakeholders, the board hired Sunday Oliseh, a speedy and knowledgeable commentator who also captained the team as a player. The slogan then was that they had unearthed the African

Dalung must act like a revolutionary now. His Red Beret should guide him

ing to defend the trophy at South Africa ’96. In between, the Eagles progressed to the World Cup and in their debut at USA ’94, won the hearts of the soccer world, trouncing two European teams and emerging as a an entertaining side to be reckoned with. Only once did Nigeria fail to qualify for the World Cup since that historic first appearance. And sitting at home while others sweated it out in the field of play did the image of the team no good. We may be confined to the sidelines for the second time if those who manage our football continue the deaf game they are playing with the hiring of a coach for the

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

Pep Guardiola. Oliseh came bubbling with words. He began by dividing the team, forcing long standing Skipper and keeper Vincent

Enyeama to throw in the towel. At the end the words could not match the deed. Indeed, Oliseh was a full flop and made a quick volte face. He abandoned the team unceremoniously. That threw in Samson Siasia who was drafted as interim coach on a rescue mission against the Pharaohs. The team was already sinking and needed more than an emergency life jacket to stay afloat. And the Nations cup ticket was submerged. Time is too short to even hire a new coach. The NFF has failed to realize that . Rather there is this zeal to go beyond our shores to import a foreigner to manage the team. Pinnick only prays that

sports minister Solomon Dalung will grant his desire of bringing in an expatriate Technical Adviser. While we agree that there is nothing criminal about employing an outsider to manage the Eagles, doing that at this time will hurt our chances of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup. We have the will to look outwards but football administration as it stands today does not have what it takes to handle a non- Nigerian. A situation that allows the Glass House to owe salaries and allowances is alien to a right thinking coach from overseas. Our stand is that given the prevailing circumstances, Siasia should manage the team all through the World Cup qualifiers. He has got what it takes to do it. He is not new to the team and knows the system. A man who has coached the Eagles, handled the Flying Eagles and manages the Dream Team is not inexperienced. He has an Olympic medal to flaunt and nearly became a world champion coach at the U-20 level in 2005. Dalung must act like a revolutionary now. His Red Beret should guide him. The Eagles that Siasia assembled against Egypt are good enough to make progress., they only need time to get it right. That time is now and they must be allowed to stay together. We cannot have youngsters like Alex Iwobi and Kelechi Iheanacho outside Russia 2018. This decision belongs to Nigerians and the verdict is that Siasia is available.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Insight From Textiles Revolving Fund, to the Cotton, Textile and Garment Development Scheme, the Nigerian textile industry is like a terminally-ill patient which has been given several prescriptions that seem to treat the symptoms rather than the disease in the last 16 years, as IBRAHEEM MUSA highlights in this report

Textile: An industry on life support

he story of the nation’s textile industry, from Independence in 1960 to date, is a metaphor of the problems bedevilling Nigeria. Poor planning, inconsistent policies and ill-digested concept of globalisation as well as the lackadaisical attitude of various administrations have crippled the vibrant industry. In 1957, the northern regional government, led by Sir Ahmadu Bello, entered into a business partnership with David WaterHeed. The North, at that time, gave the seed money and the British firm provided the technical expertise and that partnership gave birth to Kaduna Textiles Limited. The Sarduana, as Sir Ahmadu Bello was called, wanted to make Kaduna the Manchester of Nigeria. In the 50s, Manchester was the textile hub of Europe and the northern premier wanted to make Kaduna the clothing centre of Nigeria. Thereafter, the United Nigerian Textiles Limited (UNTL) was established, followed by United Textiles (UNITEX) and FineTex. In the 80s, there were about 200 textile mills in Nigeria and combined they employed about three million workers across the country, from weaving, spinning and printing of fabrics. In Kaduna, the 13 mills employed more than 60,000 workers at their peak. Similarly, the 18 textiles in Kano engaged 120,000 workers and with 60 factories, the work force was about 250 in Lagos alone. Aba, Asaba and Gusau as well as Port Harcourt mills, including Funtua Textiles Limited, had employed a substantial number of workers. In fact, Nigeria was the third largest country in the production of textile materials, according to Comrade Isa Aremu, the General Secretary of Textile Workers’

Kaduna Textile Limited

Union. Nigeria, he pointed out, was trailing both Egypt and South Africa in textiles production but the textile mills were the second employers of labour in Nigeria, after the Federal Government. However, around 1993, the steep decline began and the textiles began closing down in quick succession. That time, General Sani Abacha was Head of State and the military ruler did not care about the closure. Instead, the government embarked on trade liberalisation, according to Aremu, and opened the country’s borders to all manners of imports. Specifically, the Chinese cashed in on this policy and dumped cheap and sub-standard fabrics in the country. Simultaneously, the cost of doing business in Nigeria was getting more expensive as the energy crisis had begun. Significantly, the cost of electricity and Low Pour Fuel Oil, from then onwards, became prohibitive and this added to the cost of producing fabrics. Activists, economists and labour unionists agitated and the latter went on strike over the issue at different times. However, the Abacha regime carried on regardless as the advocacy was seen largely as a

Cheques were duly issued but the supposed beneficiaries got the shock of their lives. The cheques bounced

National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) plot to actualise June 12 election, which was annulled by the previous government. In 2000, the industry was almost on its knees as the workers were thrown out of job. However, the agitation to save the textile industry continued unabated and around 2003, with Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as president, the government was roused from its inertia. Significantly, a Textile Revival Fund was mooted by the administration and the decision was widely acclaimed by all and sundry. Thereafter, proposals, revival and repayment plans were submitted to government and a N70 billion loan was approved for textile manufacturers and NEXIM Bank was to disburse the funds. Cheques were duly issued but the supposed beneficiaries got the shock of their lives. The cheques bounced and government gave an implausible explanation, arguing that the cheques were merely symbolic and not cashable financial instruments. NEXIM Bank and the Federal Government were unable to source funds when Merryl Lynch backed out of the deal. Afterwards, United Bank for Africa (UBA) came to the rescue.

But it wanted to charge 10 per cent interest on the N70 million. The bank and the Federal Government, according to reports, disagreed on that double digit interest rate. Thereafter, textile owners, NEXIM Bank and government officials were at the crossroads on how to proceed while the industry lay prostrate. Obasanjo’s administration left and his protégé, the late Alhaji Umaru Yar’Adua, inherited the half-baked policy, re-wired it and jerked up the fund to N100 billion. Cotton, Textile and Garment (CTG) Development Scheme, as the fund was re-christened, went the whole gamut of including cotton producers, textile firms and their finished products in the package. In addition, a presidential committee comprising the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Debt Management Office (DMO), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bank of Industry, Finance and Power ministries, as well as United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), including cottage and textile unions, was set up by the Yar’Adua administration. Similarly, BoI took over from NEXIM Bank and the former was asked to

INSIGHT

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Kaduna Textiles

look for ways to finance the fiveyear loan which was to attract six per cent interest. In November 2009, a high-powered delegation, comprising BoI’s Managing Director, Minister of Finance and Chief Economic Adviser as well as Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, went to Kaduna to inspect the textile industry. In addition, the delegation interacted with stakeholders and worked out disbursement criteria. However, despite the team, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) was sceptical and Ibrahim Usman (an engineer), its Kaduna South-east chairman, tackled the delegation. He asked if the inspection was not just another jamboree but Dr Mansur Muktar, the then Finance Minister, and Chief Economic Adviser, Tanimu Yakubu, said it was for real. Two months after that promise, the disbursement commenced and by end of April, BoI had reportedly released N10 billion out of the N100 billion-package. However, instead of receiving plaudits, the disbursement raised disquiet in the industry for several reasons. In particular, the list of beneficiaries, the criteria for release and who got what amount remained a secret at that time and this mystery, according to Usman, did not augur well for transparency. Besides, the industry was also beset with problems of dumping, epileptic power supply and inadequate cotton, the primary raw material, which were not properly factored in the Yar’Adua revival plan. Fundamentally, the revival plan was flawed from the beginning as government put the cart before the horse, according to experts like Mr. Mike Okpere, the Managing Director of Gymser Commodity Limited. Cotton farmers and marketers, either by accident or design, were relegated in the sharing formula and for this reason, the revival plan will fail, Okpere had predicted almost six years ago. Under the plan, he said that 70 per cent of the funds would be given to textile mills, while ginners would receive 20 per cent, leaving a paltry 10 per cent for both marketers and cotton farmers. According to Okpere, the availability and quality of cotton ought to be uppermost in the revival plan but government focused mainly on milling. Describing the loan as thoughtless and wasteful, Okpere likened the bailout to pouring water into a basket as there was no cotton to

Suppertex Limited

Arewa Textiles Limited

feed the mills. In 2010, Nigeria mills needed about 7,500 metric tonnes of cotton seeds but little or nothing was on ground to meet this demand, he had pointed out. Olam and WACOT, world class cotton producers, had promised only 500 metric tonnes, according to Okpere. “The last time that Nigeria developed cotton seedlings was in 1971 and 1977 and since then we have been using recycled seeds,” he said. Apart from cotton seeds, there is the Janus of counterfeiting and smuggling, where cheap fabrics, usually from Asia, were cloned and dumped in Nigerian markets. Usually, unscrupulous local businessmen go to China, collude with factories to produce substandard materials and smuggle them into the country through porous borders. To curb smuggling, the Yar’Adua government promised to re-organise the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) but that promise remained largely unfulfilled, leaving local textiles vulnerable to smugglers up till today. In addition, power and energy are also central to the revival of textiles but like smuggling and dumping, the twin problem is beyond textile owners and this makes cost of production very high. Last week, a member of the management staff in one of the textile firms in Kaduna, told New Telegraph that most mills needed electricity on a 24-hour basis. For this reason, they now run on generators, given the present power situation in the country. Significantly, the textile revival fund was disbursed half-heartedly and following Yar’Adua’s demise, the policy somewhat died with the former president. In January 2015, then President Goodluck Jonathan modified the CTG policy. In summary, CTG

United Textile

About 176 textile mills have gone under in the last 20 years

aimed at increasing the cotton output of the country from 200,000 metric tonnes to 500,000 by the end of that year. Then Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, had said that the boost would rake in $3 billion annually from cotton export. Specifically, CTG will improve the quality and quantity, production capacity, marketing and competitiveness of the players across the entire cotton value chain, Aganga had promised. Similarly, the policy sought to address power, smuggling and counterfeit challenges that are bedevilling cotton, textiles and garment production. In addition, the policy will control, according to Aganga, the influx of substandard textile materials into the country. The package, the then minister added, was a comprehensive policy that stretched “from farms to fashion’’. The Implementing Committee was all embracing; it included the Ministries of Agriculture and Finance, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), NCS and UNIDO. In summary, its terms of reference were omnibus; they included how to improve the investment climate and evolve the right fiscal policy that will enhance the CTG programme. Similarly, the committee was asked to look into energy supply and curtail smuggling, as well as enhance skills development, including providing standard fabrics and increasing local patronage of made-in-Nigeria textile materials. However, the CTG never went beyond the inauguration as dearth of funds, from the very beginning, stopped the policy from even being tested. According to Mr Jaiyeola, the Chairman of MAN and a member of the committee, Aganga had

told them to source funds because “it is our policy and we had to find a way of implementing it on our own”. Similarly, like the Jonathan administration, the present government wants to re-jig the CTG policy. On April 5, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Hajiya Aisha Abubakar, met with members of the Implementation Committee. The meeting, according to reports, was aimed at reviewing the programme and seeking the way forward. Government, according to the minister, is serious about reviving the CTG programme as it will help revitalise the growth and development of the textile industry. “The CTG sector, which used to be the highest employer of labour next to government, with over 175 mills at its peak in the 80s, is now a shadow of itself with barely 30 companies operating presently. This is no time for lamentations, we are determined to succeed. The country is looking at us. I am sure the successful implementation of the CTG policy will indeed bring back the glory of this sector, through its multiplier effects,” the minister said. However, over three weeks after the meeting, nothing has been heard of the policy. But an insider said “this government will be a departure from the past”. Meanwhile, about 176 textile mills have gone under in the last 20 years. But now, the situation has slightly improved as, according to reports, about 50 mills are operating epileptically across the nation, contrary to the minister’s figures. In Kaduna, there are just four textiles in the Kakuri industrial layout where the 13 mills were localised, 16 years after the revival fund was disbursed. The CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

INSIGHT

Contrary to the widely held notion that harsh investment climate caused the closure of over 200 Textile Mills, the Kaduna State Chairman of Coalition of Closed Textile Workers, Comrade Wordam Simdik, says, in this interview with IBRAHEEM MUSA, that mismanagement was responsible for the collapse of the once vibrant industry When did you join the textile industry and what were the conditions of service then? I joined the Kaduna Textiles Limited on October 13, 1979 and the workforce at that time was over 7,000 workers. And between that time and up till 1999, the textiles were very vibrant. The conditions of service were very good. In fact, they were better than the civil service and most civil servants left government jobs and joined the textiles. I was working with the government between 1977 and 1978 and when I found out that my former classmate was earning more than me, I decided to leave for KTL. By that time, there were 11 textile firms in Kaduna town; they were KTL, Arewa Textiles Plc, Nortex, Supertex, UNITEX, United Nigeria Textiles Limited, Zamfara Textiles, Chellco 1, Chellco 2, Poly Fibre and later on, Finetext came on board. Between 1979 and 1980, we were having over 250 Textile Mills all over Nigeria and we had over 500,000 workers within the textile industry. But some people said the industry employed up to three million workers at that time. Yes, they are correct. It is even more than that when you consider the entire value chain, from the cotton farmers to the ginneries and other people who work in the industry but who are not directly involved in production. The 500,000 that I mentioned to you were those who actually worked in the mills. When KTL was producing at its peak, the whole of this area,

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Textiles’ closure due to mismanagement – Unionist Nigeria. Don’t you think this was also a factor? This is just an excuse to cover up the mismanagement in the textile industry. Let us assume what they are saying is true, is the textile industry the only industry in Nigeria? Companies in the food and beverages industry like Nigerian Breweries and Coca Cola are still operating, what of textiles? Are they not also being affected by the harsh investment climate that they are talking about? Why should they be operating when textiles are closing? In Nigeria, everyone wears clothes; even dead bodies are covered with cloths. So, the market is huge and bigger than that of Coca Cola and breweries. Why have they not closed shop? In fact, after shelter, man’s most important need is clothes, even before food. So, why did textiles collapse? The management of textile industry wanted to make high profits for themselves; that was what forced the mills to close down and not necessarily high cost of doing business in the country. If they had managed the companies properly, the way that they were being managed in the 70s and 80s, thee closure would not have happened.

Simdik

stretching from Nigerian Breweries to Defence Industries Corporation (DIC), was brimming with people (the distance is about three kilometres). What do you think was responsible for the closure of the textile firms? The single factor that caused the closure of the textiles is mismanagement. The owners were not checking the activities of the management; they allowed them a free reign and when it was too late, they realised the mills were closed. A manager in one of these mills has houses all over the 19 states of the North. Where did he get the money from? So, most of the management staff mismanaged the funds of the textiles.

They all wanted to import generators because of the commission that they stood to get at that time

But the common reason for the closure was that the investment climate in the country became very harsh and as such it became very difficult for the textiles to do business in

There is the argument that electricity supply is erratic and the cost of Low Pour Fuel and other raw materials was high and this jerked up the cost of production which forced most textile firms to close down. What is your view? In 1979 when I joined KTL, we were using coal and local charcoal. If KTL could use these sources of energy before when the textiles were producing at their peak, why didn’t they revert to them when the cost of electricity and LPO became high? In any case, we get this LPO from Kaduna refinery here locally. And talking about raw materials, 90 per cent of the raw materials that are used in the textile industry are found here in Nigeria. We farm cotton here in Nigeria, we don’t import cotton. Instead, we export cotton. In fact, almost every state in the three geopolitical zones in the North can produce cotton. Talking about electricity, if we can manage it in the 70s and 80s, what stopped the management from managing it now? They all

A mission still possible CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

situation, over the years, has remained virtually the same as the federal and state governments keep paying a lip-service to the revival of textile mills. In most cases, salary areas, gratuities and sundry allowances have not been paid and most retired staff, according to reports, have died waiting for their entitlements. As at last year, over 2,800 former workers have lost their lives, according to Comrade Wordman Simdik, the chairman of Coalition of Closed Unpaid Textiles Workers, Kaduna State chapter. This figure, according to Simdik, represents deaths from six moribund textiles alone - KTL, Arewa Textiles Plc, UNITL,

Nortex, Supertex and Finetex - in the last 14 years. Similarly, the factories have been overtaken by grass and the roofs have caved in, exposing the obsolete machines to the elements. For example, in Nortext, Arewa Textiles and Chellco, the mills have become habitats for rodents and dangerous reptiles. At night, thieves usually sneak in, according to reports, to pilfer machine parts and sundry valuables. Like Nigeria, the Textile Industry is beset with deceit, dilly-dallying and policy flip-flops as well as lack of a holistic policy on industrialisation. Right now, the industry is lying prostrate at the operation theatre while the doctors and nurses are Unitex Limited trying to diagnose its disease.

wanted to import generators because of the commission that they stood to get at that time. That is why they kept complaining about lack of electricity so that they will get the excuse to import generators. If the mills can get only 12 hours of electricity daily, they can produce enough to even make profit. There was also the problem of dumping, whereby textile owners complained that Asian countries used to smuggle cheap fabrics into the country in order to undercut local products. What will you say about that? The issue of dumping is not new, especially in Kano market. Even in the 80s, when we were producing at our peak, there was still smuggling in textile materials from China but people preferred our products. In fact, our products were being exported to neighbouring countries. They used to argue that the cost of production of those foreign products is low. If this was so, the management ought to have increased the quality of our products while the price remains reasonable. That way, customers would have still patronised our fabrics. In fact, women preferred our fabrics to those ones from China because they fade after three months, while our own used to last for several years. Some of our women are still using KTL and UNTL wrappers of that time. How many textile firms are working right now in Kaduna State and in Nigeria generally? There are only two textile mills that are operating in Kaduna; UNTL is running skeletal services. UNTL used to employ about 11,000 workers but today, the workers are not up to 1,500. Chellco Textiles is also working with a workforce of about 600 to 800 workers. The textiles that are operating nationally, out of the 250 in production, are not up to 20. In Kano, they are only two. As a result of the closure, we have lost over 3,000 workers and families in Kaduna. I know of a colleague who died in hospital because he couldn’t afford to pay N1,000. So, we are only surviving by the grace of God.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

SouthEastFocus

GEOFFREY EKENNA coordinaTor

goeekenna@yahoo.co.uk 08068774740

South South Focus As Benin awaits new king

23 News Long live the King!

efore the attack on Ukpabi-Nimbo Community, in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, there was full first hand information to all security agencies from well-meaning citizens of the state. The community is an agrarian area, whose invasion came a few days after reports of series of kidnapping, rape in the same vicinity by suspected Fulani invaders. After the attack, there were conflicting figures over the exact number of casualties, as different sources put the figure at between 30 and 50. It was gathered that armed herdsmen, numbering over 400, invaded the community in the early hours of that faithful day. But the questions people keep on asking is what happened after? The state Governor, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, after getting the report convened a state emergency security meeting, involving the Army, police, civil Defence and others at the government House Enugu. It was agreed at the meeting that the attack be nipped in the bud. But that was not to be as the marauders had their way. Sources said that some policemen posted to the area, left their duty posts very early in the morning without replacements. That was why Ugwuanyi on his visit to the area, broke down in tears on sighting the carnage and destruction. He called for two-day fasting and prayer as more butchered bodies were recovered. As at the time of his visit, community was deserted as those left were wearing long faces. One of the bodies recovered during the visit that moved the governor to tears was that of a teacher, transferred to the community from Enugu Ezike, identified as Mr. Ugwu Ogbu. New Telegraph investigation revealed that since the incident, there has been a mass exodus of people from the community to neighbouring villages. In the three separate hospitals visited by New Telegraph in Nsukka

Ugwuanyi weeping at the scene

Ukpabi-Nimbo: When Enugu’s peace was ruffled CHARLES ONYEKWERE writes on the recent invasion and killings at Ukpabi Nimbo community of Uzo Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State by suspected herdsmen area of the state, over 20 people were battling to survive as many of them who sustained serious machete cuts were still wailing on their beds. At Bishop Shanahan Hospital, Nsukka, five injured people were receiving treatment with some cuts on their heads, legs and hands while six bodies were deposited at the morgue. Also at Royal Cross Hospital, a former ward councillor in the area was receiving drugs and treatment following injuries he sustained during the attack. Ugwuanyi, who visited the troubled area and Hospitals, expressed shock over the incident. He promised the state government’s assistance towards the plight of the victims. He also made a donation of N5milion to the community and appealed to those who fled their homes to return as government was doing all it could to restore normalcy to the area. “Be that as it may, what has happened, has happened; this is not time to blame anybody; government will do what it is supposed to do. I understand that economic activities have been shut down here. We will, as a government make available the sum of N5m to the leaders of this community and then from there proceed to

the hospital, settle all the bills and then later, we go to the next line of action. “May I therefore, call on the entire people of Enugu State to please fast for two days and put this into the hands of God; Enugu is in the hands of God. “I re-assure this community that the government and the people of Enugu State are behind you; your pain is our pain; you are the true heroes of democracy and we cannot abandon you; that’s why I am here”, the Governor stated. A day after the attack, the Inspector General of police, Solomon Arase, who inspected the level of damage and killing, ordered a probe into the invasion. Arase also ordered the immediate arrest and detention of a police corporal identified as Chukwu, attached to the Adani Divisional headquarters over his role in the ugly incident. “I have already ordered that he be put in custody till the investigations are over. It was discovered that he connived with the people that carried out the attack. I must make sure that he gets out of the Nigerian police force.” The IGP stated these when he led other senior police officers to the scene of the attack. He expressed shock, promising that the Federal Government would do everything humanly possible to fish out the perpetrators of the act.

“We have been able to see what happened. We will be able to find a lasting solution this problem.” Ugwuanyi, who after visiting the Ukpabi Nimbo community, declared that security agencies in the state owed Nigerians answers to the killing by Fulani herdsmen. Ugwuanyi stated this while addressing the people of the state over the carnage at Nimbo. He equally announced the constitution of a judicial commission of inquiry into the incident. It would be recalled that the herdsmen stormed the community in the early hours of Monday, April 25, killed several persons, injured others and destroyed properties. Ugwuanyi spoke at the government House, in a solemn session attended by several leaders in the state, including the Deputy Senate President, Chief Ike Ekweremadu, senators and members of the House of Representatives from the state. Speaking in a very angry tone, Ugwuanyi said security agencies owed Nigerians explanation over the attack. He recalled that “On Sunday, April 24, 2016, by 7 pm, the night before the carnage took place, I got security information from Uzo-Uwani Local CO NTINUED O N PAGE 20

south-east

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Enugu’s peace ruffled CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Government Transition Chairman, Hon. Cornell Onwubuya, that such an incident was likely to take place in the state. “I immediately summoned a meeting of the State Security Council which commenced by 10 pm. “In the meeting, we received assurances from the Commissioner of Police that the Area Commander of SARS was on ground at Nimbo. “That the Anti-Terrorism Unit was at Nimbo “That he was in contact with the Kogi State Commissioner of Police and reported suspected herdsmen grouping at Odolu in Kogi State preparatory for an attack on Nimbo and Abbi communities. “That Police mobile force and conventional police were already drafted to Nimbo and Abbi communities. “That he was in touch with the Area Commander, Idah, ACP Ikegwuonwu and had linked him with the Area Commander, Nsukka, ACP Monday Kuryas. Both men according to the CP reported that there were no traces of suspected herdsmen in Nsukka or Idah. “That he ordered the Area Commander, Nsukka to redeploy to Nimbo.” He further noted that “the Garrison Commander on his part assured the meeting that Military was already deployed to Nimbo”, adding that “the State Government provided logistics for these deployments.” “After receiving these assurances of deployments to Nimbo, I felt quite confident that we had done everything possible to forestall an attack

Herdsmen

on Nimbo. I have deliberately narrated what transpired at the Security Council meeting fully conscious of the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution pertaining to my oath of office. I am doing this in due discharge of my duties as Governor. “Sadly, in the early hours of Monday, reports of this carnage reached me. More disturbing was the report that the attack of innocent and defenceless citizens were carried out at about 6 30 am. Further reports available to me indicate that apart from the killing and maiming of innocent and defenceless citizens of Nimbo, a Church was also burnt. Following this development, I engaged the security agencies in order to ensure that the Nimbo area was secured from further attacks that might es-

According to tradition, it is the parents and relatives of a girl that receive a dowry in any traditional marriage rite. But the case of Mr. Chukwuma Nomeh of Effium community in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State is different. The pastor of her daughter’s church insisted he must collect the dowry and immediately ordered for the return to the man who had paid the dowry to marry his daughter, Onyinye UCHENNA INYA reports

young man had approached Nomeh’s daughter, Onyinye and requested she married him. Onyinye partially agreed and asked the man to follow her to her house to formally introduce her to the parents and other members of the family. Onyinye and the man later came and the introduction was successful while the man was asked to come back later and pay the dowry. But the man is regretting knowing Onyinye and the family. He had paid the

calate the situation. “On Tuesday, April 26, 2016, I visited Nimbo in order to establish firsthand the extent of carnage. My visit to Nimbo was revealing. I came face to face with the wounded and bereaved. I saw burnt and damaged personage of Christ Holy Church. I saw a traumatized community in shock and despair. I saw a dead body. I wept. I wondered what has become of our quest for a united, peaceful and prosperous nation. Our first national anthem had a phrase which went thus: ‘though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand.’ “Only two weeks ago, we gave a posthumous award to Alhaji Umaru Altine, a Katsina born Muslim, who was elected mayor of Enugu before the Civil War, in the period that Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe was leader of the NCNC.

“Now in less than three months, violent clashes have occurred in Enugu State in Awgu, Nike, Abbi and Nimbo between suspected Fulani Herdsmen and our people. This situation cannot be allowed to continue. “For this reason, I sought audience with His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. Our discussions were frank and cordial. I am very grateful to the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, Muhammadu Buhari for his prompt and decisive reaction to the incident in Nimbo. The President came out with a clear and unmistakable condemnation of this dastardly act and gave clear and definite directives to the security agencies to fish out these criminals and bring them to justice. “I have called you today not just to brief you on what has happened so far, but to discuss in depth with you on what we must all do to prevent the occurrence of such incidents in the future. “So long as we are Nigerians, we cannot live in isolation but those who come to Enugu must respect out values and not engage in such dastardly act as we have witnessed recently. “I am at once, constituting a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate the immediate and remote causes of all the violent occurrences in the state associated with suspected Fulani Herdsmen and recommend appropriate measures that will be put in place to prevent future occurrence. “What happened between 6.30am and 7.30 am on Monday 25th April, 2016 despite assurances from the Security Agencies? Only the Security Agencies can answer this question. “Finally, all security agencies in the state are hereby directed to continue to ensure that lives and property of the people of the state and all its residents are protected”, he stressed.

Controversy over dowry dowry and the marriage consummated when he was called on phone to come and collect the dowry, that Onyinye was no longer interested in the marriage. The reason for the change o mind was that her pastor, Gideon Ogwalle, a pastor with the Grace of God Mission International was not present when the dowry was paid. Narrating his predicament, Mr Chukwuma Nomeh, said “My family members attend Grace of God Church in Effium. One of my daughters, Onyinyechi who attend the church came to me in the house with a man as her fiancé. I asked her do you like the man and she replied yes. I also asked her if she has informed her pastor and she said yes. “I later went to the pastor and asked him if he was aware of this and he replied yes but that I was supposed to come to him with a wine. “The man and his relatives came for the marriage introduction. I and my relatives and kindred asked my daughter if she still wanted to marry the man and she said yes. We poured a palm wine inside cup according to our tradition and gave to her and she drank and gave to the man. The man in turn drank and gave to the girl to also drink and we said yes, the marriage has been consummated. This aspect is very vital in any marriage rite in our place. “We then told the man and his relatives to go and come back for the payment of the dowry. They later came and paid the dowry. My daughter, who was present when the dowry was paid, asked me why the dowry was paid without the presence of her pas-

Onyinye

tor. I explained to her that the dowry can be paid without the presence of her pastor. I then reported the matter to the pastor, who queried why the dowry was paid without him being around. The pastor ordered me to call the man to come and collect the dowry back, that the man can’t marry the girl anymore’’. He noted that after he refunded the dow-

ry to the man, the next thing his daughter did was to pack her things and move to the pastor’s church, where she was living till the pastor rented a house for her. “My daughter immediately left my house and went and stayed in the pastor’s church. Her sister later joined her and each time they see me on the road passing, they will boo me. “The pastor later rented house for them and they have been living there since nine months now and refused to return home. I have approached the pastor to release my daughters to me but he has refused to do so. I am calling on government and Civil Liberties Organization to come to my aid. “I have reported the matter to Effium Police Division. The Police arrested him and transferred the matter to Area Command, Abakaliki. The pastor was granted bail and the Area Commander ordered him to release my daughters to me but he refused’’, he alleged. On his part, Nomeh’s brother, Chika Nomeh, who corroborated Chukwuma’s claim, said he was surprised that Onyinye could behave the way she did. “I was surprised that a pastor will make a girl to hate her parents to the extent that any time she sees his father, she will beat him. Any time she sees her grandmother, she will slap her. There was a time she beat up her grandmother. We are no longer interested in anything marriage, our interest now is how these girls can return to the family. Civil Liberties Organizations and government should help us bring these two girls back to us.’’

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

SouthSouthFocus

Benin chiefs announcing the death. Inset: The late Erediauwa

As Benin awaits new king With the formal announcement by the Iyase of Benin, Chief Sam Igbe, of Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa joining his ancestors, there now lies the great expectation of people of the kingdom for the emergence of a new monarch to preside over the affairs of the ancient kingdom. CAJETAN MMUTA x-rays some of the issues and challenges in the exercise.

ast week, the world was greeted with the news of the passage of one of not only Africa’s great first class traditional rulers but also one of Nigeria’s foremost Permanent Secretaries, whose indelible marks, dexterity, industry and frank dispositions to issues of both national and domestic attention has remained a reference point. The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa, for the 27 years he was on the saddle, made history as one whose reign and words contributed in no small measure to shape the history of the Heart Beat state of Edo and the nation. As a product of lasting and permeating peace, unity and development, Oba Erediauwa’s historic reign brought enormous relieve to a great many as he was reputed for handling issues with all sense

of maturity, fearlessness, fairness and applied wisdom. These were demonstrated in most communal crises and leadership conflicts among various interest groups. His influence as chairman of the traditional council and even as major stakeholder in giving direction on policy matters and national issues were exemplary. The rich potentials and fatherly disposition of Oba Erediauwa is what today has continued to endear him to many and attract large crowd of sympathizers on learning about the end of his peaceful reign and reuniting with his ancestors. To the people of the ancient kingdom of Benin, the monarch is referenced as a god, as he was a rallying point while alive. It was therefore not surprising when the large army of subjects of the kingdom, including non indigenes, politicians, friends and associates alike, joined the be-

The smashed white chalk

reaved family members, made up of the monarch’s children, wives and in-laws at the ancient palace in Benin to sympathize with them on the death of their sage and man of many parts. The Oba died at the age of 93 years, although, the Benin traditional council had before now placed a ban on anyone from making reference to the late Oba’s age, even no mention was made for several years about his age even during his birthdays while on the throne. This is seen as one way to preserve the spiritual and sanctity of the rich culture and tradition of the people. While the kingdom awaits on the traditional council to roll out the rites for the final interment of the Oba and to bid him farewell to the great beyond, much is also lined up for the formal installation of the heir apparent, His Royal Highness, Eheneden Erediauwa, as the next Oba of the kingdom. It was no doubt there-

fore for some obvious reasons that top Benin palace chiefs on April 29, following the tradition of the people, gathered to announce that the monarch had joined his ancestors. It was indeed a solemn moment and one that provided an opportunity for the people to reflect on. For the ancient Benin kingdom, the capital City of Edo State, its residents, the Iroko has fallen. The hierarchy of palace chiefs during the week announced the passage of Oba Erediauwa, which was broken by the chiefs led by the Iyase of Benin Kingdom Chief Sam Igbe, who was assisted by Chief David Edebiri, the Esogban of Benin Kingdom. The sad news was first conveyed to the heir apparent, His Royal highness Eheneden Erediauwa and Edaiken N’Uselu, children and other members of the royal family as well as the Enigies and large crowd of sympathizers who besieged the palace. There were traditional rites that heralded the solemn event held within the palatial compound amid wailings by most of the people. The chiefs, in a procession-like manner, accompanied by a man carrying the traditional Akpoki (a round sacred stool-like box with cover at one of its ends and said to be containing some traditional items of high spiritual powers), trooped to the centre of the main entrance gate where the Iyase of Benin made some traditional incantations and broke a big white chalk and announced loudly to the hearing of all that the monarch had passed on and reunited with his ancestors. The pronouncement elicited cold shivers and wailings by the elderly, low and high, who witnessed the solemn rite. A similar ceremony was performed at the edge of bowel of the palace and from where all the top chiefs removed one of their beads in absolute reverence to the deceased traditional father of all. In addition, an official stateCONTINUED ON PAGE 24

south-south

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

ment by Chief Sam Igbe stated that HRM Oba Erediauwa had joined his ancestors after the traditional white chalk was broken at the main entrance gate and within the ancient palace and some rites laced with spiritual invocations also performed by the Iyase of the Kingdom. The Iyase of Benin Kingdom, who described the late Oba of Benin as the Prince of Peace, also prayed God to grant his soul eternal peace. According to the statement: “As announced by the Iyase of Benin kingdom, Osorhue Bunrun, Oba Erediauwa of Benin Kingdom, the Prince of Peace, Ebo, Ayenmwirhe (CMINI, MINI, MNI) has reunited with his ancestors. May he find perfect peace with God, Amen.” Oba Erediauwa mounted the revered seat in 1978 and his reign witnessed tremendous development and peaceful coexistence amongst all segments of people of the state, the nation and beyond. The core chiefs of the inner chamber of the palace before the public announcement of the death of the monarch had held hours of closed door meeting with the HRH Eheneden Erediauwa, the Enigies and other elders of the royal family. The Oba’s children, relations, Enigies, in-laws and others were made to stand in a circular form with the top palace chiefs while the traditional rites leading to breaking of the sad news about the death of their father and other ceremonies lasted. The heir apparent, HRH Eheneden Erdiauwa, had in the last few months been led through and completed in the process some mandatory traditional rites of spiritual fortification and preparations to enable him face the task ahead. It was at the end of the all important exercise that he was ushered into a royal procession to the traditional palace ground at Uselu, preparatory to the formal ceremony that will culminate to his installation as the next Oba of the kingdom. Already, a 28-day traditional burial rites has been lined up. As a mark of honour and for successful burial activities, all the male Binis and non indigenes have since been asked to shave their hair while the markets remain closed for seven days. Following the announcement of Oba’s demise last week, fear enveloped residents of the ancient city over rumours of sacrifice of human heads to placate the gods and to complete the almost month long burial exercise. This erroneous assumption prompted most frightened traders, shop operators and retail outlets and other commercial centres to close for business at 7pm on daily basis. But a source close to the palace said the ugly practice if ever it existed was never given thought to by the kingdom to bury its monarchs. However, the processes leading to the coronation of a new Oba of Benin has a span of 10 days, which start from Egue-Edaiken, the traditional palace of the heir apparent to the Benin traditional seat. On a day usually fixed by the Edaiken, he is escorted by the Uselu people in a royal procession back to Benin ancient palace. He is expected to perform a historical

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Long live the King!

Governor Adams Oshiomhole (right), pays obeisance to Edaiken n’Uselu

It is of great significance to note that until the ceremony is performed at Use, the Edaiken never knows what name he is to be crowned with

and symbolic traditional ritual of palm tree climbing exercise in what is known as the “Udinama aimiuwa” (work before pleasure). The ceremony dates back to the time of Oba Ewuare the Great, whose life as heir apparent to the throne was marked by long sufferings that was dotted with climbing of palm trees for a living. This plight by the father of the first Edaiken has been reenacted by every Edaiken. From the symbolic palm tree, the Edaiken continues his royal journey to Benin City; but stops at Iya-akpan first moat within the precinct of Mid-Motors Nigeria Limited. All the Uselu chiefs in Edaiken’s procession are expected to leave him and return to their community while the chiefs from Oredo council will take over the procession and escort of the Edaiken to the ancient palace. He walks amidst troupes of drummers and large crowd of people in solidarity through Iguisi (now Lagos Street) and proceeds to Eko-Ohae (bachelor’s camp) where he stays for three days. After three days at Eko-Ohae, the Edaiken continues his journey to Usama, the venue of the traditional coronation rites, a site where Oromiyan, the father of Eweka I, built the first palace and all succeeding Obas from Eweka I were crowned and lived there, until Oba Ewedo in the 13th century moved the palace to the present site in the heart of the City centre. He is expected to remain in Usama for a period of seven days to carry out some rituals. Within the seven days, the Edaiken visits a village, a few kilometres outside Benin, to perform the next ceremony that leads to choosing a befitting title he will be addressed with as the new Oba of the kingdom. The

feat of title taking ceremony was first carried out during the reign of Oba Eweka I, whose maternal grandfather, Ogie-Egor, lived in nearby Egor village. It would be recalled that Prince Oromiyan left Benin with his wife, who was pregnant behind but she was in the care of her father, the Ogie of Egor. The woman delivered a male child, who was dumb from birth. Taking into account the long history, the Edaiken will return to Usama, where he will be crowned at a clourful ceremony by the Oliha, the leader of the Uzama, who proclaims him with the new title of Oba of Benin. It is of great significance to note that until the ceremony is performed at Use, the Edaiken never knows what name he is to be crowned with. From that moment, he ceases to use his personal names and is known by the new title as the Oba. It should be noted that in both at Egor and Use, there still exists in their original forms, shrines established by the diviners, traditional worshippers and native doctors, who brought the magical akhue seeds from Uhe. After the new Oba is crowned, he leaves Usama on the seventh day for the City centre to be proclaimed and presented to Benin people amid admiration, fanfare and in joyous mood for a new dawn. On his way to the City, the new Oba stops at Isekherhe, to perform the ceremonial crossing of a bridge, a reminder of the historic day of Oba Ewedo, who embarked on a similar journey of an erected bridge to enable him pass Isekherhe territory without stepping on the ground. After crossing the bridge, the Oba and his entourage will be engaged in a mock wrestle contest with an Ogiamien title holder alongside his

followers. The resistance of Ogiamien forces will collapse while the Oba and his entourage proceed to Urho-Okpota, the gate of Okpota, which existence dates to the era of Oba Ozolua at about 15th century. The Urho. Okpota, which is at the present Ring Road in the heart of Benin City, habouring some of the cultural exhibitions and the Oredo Local Government Area secretariat complex. History has it that Okpota was a powerful native doctor, who prepared a charm of good luck for any Oba and the charm is usually buried at the entrance gate of the ancient palace and it brings prosperity and peace to the kingdom. The past Oba of the kingdom was said to have lodged the Okpota in a house near the palace within the location of the present exhibition centre of the council. With the completion of the coronation ceremony at Urhokpota, the new Oba now moves into the palatial home as the new Oba of Benin. The monarch is however confronted with the challenge of meeting the Ogiamien. So, he is expected in seven days to assemble his troops and proceeds to Ekiokpagha, where he will engage the Ogiamien in a mock battle, a reminiscence of the real war between Oba Ewedo and Ogiamien in the 13th century, where the latter attempted to prevent the Oba from entering the city from Usama. By the treaty between the two, Ogiamien surrendered his superiority and claim to the ownership of land to the ruling Oba and will in turn submit his loyalty to the monarch. It is the peoples wish and expectation that the new monarch toes the path of his father, who to them remained an epitome of love, humility, mirror of hope and justice.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Industry

Business What's new SMEs lose N90bn to fuel scarcity, says OPS

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FMBN mulls 7.5% increase in NHF inputs

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FG’s roadmap for nation’s industrialisation

eWorld Perfecting telecoms’ VAS regulatory framework

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

Bayo Akomolafe

Asst. Editor (Maritime)

Sunday Ojeme

Asst. Editor (Insurance)

Tony Chukwunyem

Asst. Editor (Money Market)

Dayo Ayeyemi Property Editor

Adeola Yusuf Energy Editor

Wole Shadare Aviation Editor

Chris Ugwu

Capital Market Editor

Abdulwahab Isa Finance Editor

Taiwo Hassan

Industry, Agric & Brands Editor

Kunle Azeez

Senior Correspondent

Chuks Onuanyin Energy

Nnamdi Amadi Reporter

Johnson Adebayo

Asst Production Editor

EXCHANGE RATE (Interbank as at April 29)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N321 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N450 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N359

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N200 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N307 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N224

Source: CBN

L:R: Chief Executive Officer, Nairobi Securities Exchange Limited, Geoﬀrey Odundo; Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Stock Exchange, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba; Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Oscar Onyema; President, NSE, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede and Karim Hajji, at ‘Building African Financial Markets’ capacity building seminar closing gong ceremony, at the NSE, Lagos.

Kunle Azeez

Ayodele Aminu

EXCHANGE RATE (BDC as at April 29)

l Foreign Reserves – $27.089bn as at 29/4/2016

Operators in the nation’s telecoms industry recorded a general downward trend in active mobile subscribers in Q1

Deputy Editor (Business)

Rates Dashboard INFLATION RATE March 2016..............................12.8% February 2016...........................11.4% January 2016............................9.6%

LULL

The Business Desk

elecoms operators have yet to recover from the current lull being witnessed on their networks, as they all faced a swing in their mobile subscriptions in the first quarter with a marginal rebound in March from February mobile subscriptions crash, New Telegraph has learnt. The report obtained by this newspaper shows that operators playing in the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and fixed wired/wireless segments of the industry, recovered in their combined active subscriptions, which had nose-dived in February. According to the NCC Subscriber Data report for the month of March, which is the latest in the industry, operators recorded a marginal pick-up in mobile subscriptions from 148,620,359 in February to 148,745,464 in March, representing growth of 125,105 lines. Telecoms operators have witnessed a thunderous crash in active mobile subscriptions from 151.3 million in January to 148.6 million in February, this year. Analysis of the report, however, shows that only GSM operators in-

Telecoms operators’ growth shrinking –Report Add only 125,105 phone lines in March cluding MTN, Glo, Airtel and Etisalat contributed to the marginal growth, as mobile subscriptions, which had fallen to 148.6 million in February, grew to 148.7 million at the end of March. While GSM operators grew from 146,288,370 in February to 147,398,854 in March, CDMA and fixed line operators had their subscriptions falling from 2.14 million to 1.17 million and from 184,666 to 176,579 in February and March respectively. Also, teledensity, which is used to describe telephony penetration, also fell from 108.11 per cent in January to 06.16 per cent in February, but picked up slightly to 106.25 per cent at the end of March, the report said. However, total connected telephone lines witnessed some swinging in the first quarter of the year. According to the report, teledensity, which had stood at 214.49 million in January dropped to 214.23 million in February but picked up again to 215.76 million at the end of March. This newspaper gathered that volume of inactive telephone lines have also increased dramatically in the first quarter. Connected but inactive mobile lines on the mobile networks deepened from 63.14 million to 65.61 mil-

214.23 million

Being the total number of connected telephone lines last February

lion and 67.02 million in January, February and March respectively. While there were 214.49 million total connected phone lines in January, only 151.35 were active, resulting in inactive lines of 65.61 million. In February, with 214.23 total connected telephone lines, 148.62 million were active, while inactive lines stood at 65.61 million. Also in March, with a total of 215.76 million active lines on the networks, the number of active lines was 148.74 million with 67.02 million lines redundant. Commenting on the dwindling mobile subscriptions on mobile networks in first quarter, Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, noted the deactivation of unregistered subscribers on MTN networks for infraction, has contributed greatly to the fall I mobile subscription. He, however, said that beyond this, a stronger intervention was required from the government to address the issue of vandalism, high cost of deployment and multiple taxations, which all have increased operators’ capital expenCONTINUED ON PAGE 26

BUSINESS |news

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

SMEs lose N90bn to fuel scarcity, says OPS LULL Operators account for over 35 per cent of employment in Nigeria

Taiwo Hassan

s the scarcity of petroleum products in the country abates, the organised private sector (OPS) said that small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) had incurred over N90 billion

‘Telecoms operators’ growth shrinking’

debts, arising from increased cost of operations and workers lay-off. The losses are coming barely a month after the private sector reportedly lost N30 billion in investment. President, Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Tony Ejinkeonye, disclosed these in a chat with New Telegraph in Lagos. He said that the inability of the Federal Government to resolve the fuel scarcity crisis was having adverse effects on the SMEs sector, which, he said, accounted for 35 per cent of employment in the country. His words: “Barely one month ago, we cried out to government on the impact of fuel scarcity on SMEs sub-sector. We lamented that many SMEs operators were finding it difficult

to remain in operation and had lost over N30 billion as at then. “Well over N90 billion has been lost arising from increased cost of operations and workers’ absence from work. This portends a great danger to the nation, as many Nigerians have lost their jobs, thereby promoting poverty and insecurity in our country.” Ejinkeonye lamented that the sector was severely affected, adding that on a daily basis, two or more SMEs businesses close shops. He said it was time for the Federal Government and the All Progressive Congress (APC) to wake up and deliver on the mandate they promised during the electioneering campaigns. The ACCI’s president noted that government needed to take systemic measures to

end the lingering fuel scarcity, which had taken longer than expected. Besides, he said that the recent ban of jerry cans at the filling stations would worsen the SMEs operations, adding that it would not bring any succour on the scarcity. He said: “We also advise government to seek systematic measures to end the fuel scarcity, which we believe was not as a result of selling in kegs to business concerns. “As the largest economy in Africa, we have sounded this warning to government that the issue of unavailability of petroleum products and its importation portray the country that has four refineries in bad light. “However, as the fuel scarcity continues to bite harder, the

situation holds a negative implication on the nation, as there has been inflationary hike on goods and services. So, government really needs to wake-up and deliver on its mandate.” The fuel scarcity has been a pain in the heart of many manufacturers in the country, as they have been spending huge chunk of their profits on Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) and Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) to run their businesses. It has compelled some of the SMEs to adjust their closing time to customers. Expectedly, the narrowing of the economy to a monolithic export commodity has its attendant drawback, as oil, by virtue of its importance to the economies of nations, has inevitably become a subject of political manipulation.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

diture (CAPEX) and operating expenditure (OPEX). Adebayo said with an operating environment that helps operators to roll out services faster in areas not yet fully covered by them, more Nigerians would be able to access telecoms services. Also, Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof. Umar Danbatta, has noted that the eight-point agenda earlier unveiled by the Commission this year was aimed at deepening access to telecoms services by organically growing the sector through appropriate regulations that drives investment and creates enabling environment for the players. Minister of Communications, Mr. Adebayo Shittu, has also noted that with a population of over 170 million people and budding economic potential, Nigeria’s telecoms industry still remains Africa’s most important market, especially and an investment haven. He said: “We cannot tap the full potential of this market without a sound telecommunications and information technology base. For the enterprise in today’s highly competitive world, the strategic components in developing and maintaining competitive edge are telecommunications and information management. “The expansion of our telecommunications network will therefore accelerate development across the nation. Even for the rural or previously disadvantaged areas, access to telecommunications will contribute a great deal towards improving education, developing businesses and creating jobs.” Shittu maintained that Africa was looking up to Nigeria to take advantage of its vast human and material resources and become the catalyst for economic emancipation of other continents. “Government will encourage the ubiquitous deployment of broadband across the country; this will help Nigerian youths to take advantage of the opportunities of the Internet, especially in e-commerce business,” he said.

L-R: President, Inspire for Women, Mrs. Obi Gozie; Cardiologist and HOD, Medicine, LUTH, Prof. Jane Ajuluchukwu; Chief Executive Officer, Today’s Woman Magazine, Mrs. Adesuwa Oyenokwe and Chairman, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Ibukun Awosika, at the Inspire for Women Conference in Lagos.

DERISORY N199.9 billion collected from 4.14 million registered contributors under NHF scheme as at March 2016 Dayo Ayeyemi

n order to increase the volume of cash flow to the National Housing Fund (NHF), acting Managing Director, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Mr. Richard Esin, is seeking 7.5 per cent increase in contribution rate as against 2.5 per cent. The increment, compared to 7.5 per cent minimum pension contribution, he said, would help to boost resources of NHF. In a paper on “Managing the National Housing Fund for Increased Housing Supply,” delivered by Esin in Lagos, he stressed the need for compliance with the NHF Act on contributions. He said there was need for total compliance with mandatory deductions and investment respectively by employers, banks and insur-

FMBN mulls 7.5% increase in NHF inputs ance companies to increase the resources of NHF. NHF was established by Act Number 3 of 1992 in response to the need to create a sustainable pool of funds rather than reliance on budgetary allocation for housing delivery The Act also identified resources of the fund as contributions by workers of both public and private sectors (2,5 per cent of monthly income); investments by commercial banks (10 per cent of credit portfolio) and insurance companies (40 per cent of life and 20 per cent of non-life funds); and financial contributions of the federal government. Esin also seeks the review of legal and regulatory framework to be more conducive for housing related transactions as one of the ways forward. However, housing experts have alleged that banks and insurance companies that have the statutory obligation to contribute certain percent to NHF have failed in their responsibility. They noted that NHF represents a veritable tool for addressing housing finance is-

sues. The scheme, according to experts, presented a number of significant advantages in terms of relatively lower cost, more convenient loan terms than what obtains in the market, wide coverage that extends to the informal sector, and opportunities to increase affordability and homeownership to low and medium income bracket. On ways forward, the FMBN boss called for submission of NHF payment schedules by employers to ensure accurate record keeping of individual contributions for transparency and accountability. Besides, Esin stressed the need to improve mortgage affordability to overcome challenges arising from relatively low income levels, high cost of housing delivery and high mortgage transaction costs. As at march 2016, he disclosed that a total of N199.9 billion had been collected from 4.14 million registered contributors under NHF scheme. He said: “In line with the provision of the Act, total sum of N5.9billion has been refunded to 118,284 individuals who met conditions for refund.

“It is pertinent to mention that over 70 per cent of the cumulative collections were recorded within last five years of operations.” Real estate sector in Nigeria is said to be evolving and has potential to grow and contribute immensely to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Products (GDP) from current under one per cent to at least 50 per cent. Nigeria has a housing deficit gap of about 17 million units with 72 to 102 million of citizens without access to decent housing. To redress the housing deficit, at least 720,000 units need to be provided annually. In terms of mortgage financing, over N40 trillion on affordability bases would be required to redress the housing deficit. National Bureau of Statistics 2014 report indicated that Nigerian real estate market contributed 8.02 per cent to GDP in 2013, while building and construction industry added 3.12 per cent. Both sectors are growing rapidly at annual rates of 11 per cent and 13 per cent respectively.

THURSDAY, may 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

At the recent Town Hall meeting in Lagos, key ministers in President Muhammadu Buhari’s cabinet and industry stakeholders converged to brainstorm on the way forward towards Nigeria’s quest for industrialisation.TAIWO HASSAN reports

FG’s blueprint For government, revitalising the declining country’s economy was non-negotiable, even as it intensifies efforts to turn-around the economy in the wake of the downturn in the prices of crude oil at the international market. No doubt, what the Nigerian economy needs to bounce back to its former glory at this critical time is stimulation plan that will be targeted to kick-start the quest for the revival of the economy, especially in the area of infrastructural development. Already, the Federal Government had pledged to roll out a N350 billion into the economy in the next few months to stimulate growth in the sector in a bid to savage the declining economy. However, in any industrialised economy, the industrial sector remains key sector for growth and development. At a Town Hall meeting in Lagos recently organised to brief the public on the activities of President Muhammadu Buhari administration in the last 11 months, key strategic ministers in the economy such as, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu; Minister of Aviation, Rt. Rotimi Amaechi; Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enemalah; Minister of Information, Chief Lai Mohammed and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, converged at the forum to chart the path towards the country’s industrialisation agenda. The public gathering, which gave the ministers the opportunity to tell the people on President Muhammadu Buhari’s efforts to fulfill his change mantra he promised Nigerians during last year’s political campaigns. However, as the issues in the economy dominate the town hall meeting deliberations, the real sector of the economy (manufacturing sector) was not left behind as government reiterated that sustaining the sector profiles remain a key priority of this administration. Speaking on his ministry’s efforts in the country’s manufacturing sector, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enemalah, disclosed that government was committed to improve the non-oil sector of the nation’s economy, especially re-

InDUSTRY

FG’s roadmap for nation’s industrialisation

Dangote Salt factory

solving the infrastructure gaps that have been militating the growth in the industry for many decades. According to Enemalah, the real sector of the economy remained a key agenda of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. He said Nigeria had a lot to learn from the President’s China trip, adding that investment drive and industrialisation were the government’s top priorities during the visit to Beijing, the capital of Peoples Republic of China. He said President Buhari went to China with more than 200 Nigerian businessmen, adding that the trip was to make nation-to-nation and business-to-business deals. His words: “For those of you who were in China, the energy level was high, the engagement was high. Frankly, what we have to do now is systematic and deliberate followup and the results will inevitably come. “While we were there (China), the President met with all the key citizens, starting from the President to the Premier and some of the other key people in China. As it has been widely reported, we signed several agreements. Some of the agreements ranged from agreements on industrialisation to some of the other agreements you heard about.” Enemalah also explained that Federal Government’s aim was to create an industrial revolution in Nigeria and make it easier to do business in country. He said: “It should be pointed out that both countries make a lot of economic importance, not just to the world, but also to their respective continent.” “China is Nigeria’s largest trading partner, you know. Over 40 percent of our imports are from China, and it represents over $15 billion.” Fashola’s view He said government will require about N2trillion to complete no new

Govt will require about N2 trn to complete 226 ongoing road projects

fewer than 226 ongoing road projects across the country. He, however, said the total amount allocated to all the sectors under his ministry in the 2016 budget was less than N500 billion, stressing that the government did not have enough resources to complete all the projects at present. Fashola added that the focus of the government for now would be to complete some of the projects and not to undertake new ones. His words: “The Ministry of Power, Works and Housing proposed N423 billion at the Federal Executive Council and the information reaching us is that we are not going to get all that. “Ongoing road projects alone awarded by the government before we came– about 266 roads awarded in the various states– the liability to complete them is about N2 trillion. “So, when you look at N400 billion, you know that is not enough, but when you compare what this administration is going to do with the N400 billion, with what the last administration did, you will know it is much progress. “What the last administration did was to budget N18 billion for all the roads in the country, knowing the liability was in excess of N2 trillion. CBN’s non-oil sector agenda In its quest for revamping the real sector of the economy, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) rolled out a N300 billion Real Sector Support Facility (RSSF) loan. The CBN established the RSSF to stimulate growth, enhance value and engender productivity. According to CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, the RSSF was expected to support large enterprises for start-ups and expansion of the financing of up to N10 billion. “The real sector activities targeted by the facility are manufacturing, agricultural value chain and selected service sub-sectors. The fa-

cility is expected to improve access to finance by Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to fast-track the development of the manufacturing, agricultural value chain and services subsectors of the Nigerian economy; increase output, generate employment, diversify the revenue base, increase foreign exchange earnings and provide inputs for the industrial sector on a sustainable basis,” he said. The facility, which banks are accessing from the CBN, is to be channelled towards increasing credit to priority sectors of the economy with sufficient employment capabilities, high growth potential, increase accretion to foreign reserves, expand the industrial base and consequently diversify the economy. The RSSF is also to be used to support start-ups and expansion financing needs of enterprises. The intervention fund’s objective is to improve access to finance by the agricultural value chain, manufacturing, mining, solid minerals activities and other strategic sub-sectors of the economy. It is also part of the CBN’s agenda to increase output, create jobs, diversify the economy, increase accretion to foreign reserves and provide inputs for the industrial sector on a sustainable basis. Conclusion As Nigeria begins plans to strengthen her industrial capacity in a bid to compete with other industrialised economies of the world, it is industry stakeholders’ hopes that President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration will focus on import substitution through the creation of a diversified and inclusive economy that will meet most of the country’s consumption needs.

business \ industry

THURSDAY, may 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Diversification: Nigeria gets EU’s N5.6bn grant STIMULATION EU committed to improving Nigeria’s business and investment climate

he European Union (EU) has provided 19 million pounds (about N5.6 billion) grants to Nigeria through the National Planning Commission (NPC) to drive economic diversification, Head, Trade and Economics Section of the EU delegation to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Filippo Amato, has said. He said this at the national training on standards on code of practices for Nigerian agricultural products for exportation in Abuja. Amato said the grant was implemented through the Nigerian Private Sector Competitiveness Support Programme aimed at improving the business and investment climate through the improvement and implementation of regulatory reforms, especially in the areas of competition policy, land titling and business licensing with pilots in Kano State. Titled “Standard and Quality Unleashing the Potential of Agricultural Products to Grow the non-Oil Export in Nigeria,” the forum was organised in partnership with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON). Amato said: “As you are aware, Nigeria in terms of population and economy is over 60 per cent of ECOWAS. “The EU combined support to ECOWAS and Nigeria in the areas of trade and economic development is over 1.3billion euros between 2008 and

2014. In energy, our current 10th EDF (European Development Fund) intervention is the Nigeria Energy Support Programme that started in May 2014 and will finish in September 2017, with a 15.5 million euro funding from the EU.” The EU aid is being implemented by GIZ. The project focuses on renewable energy, energy efficiency, rural electrification and technical skills development issues. Amato said: “EU has helped Nigeria to establish the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) working closely with SON, NAFDAC (National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control), Consumer Protection Council (CPC) and other stakeholders

s the Federal Government intensifies efforts to re-jig the dwindling the economy through diversification, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has warned that the programme may hit the rocks due to dearth of infrastructure. MAN President, Dr. Frank Jacobs, in a chat with New Telegraph in Lagos, said the private sector operators were yet to take the diversification agenda seriously, as the government is yet to show utmost desire to improve on infrastructural. Jacobs explained that dearth of infrastructure had been the bane of the real sector development for decades, adding that the infrastructure collapse was sending wrong signals to investors willing to invest in Nigeria. His words: “I think that government should address the infrastructural challenges facing the nation’s manufactur-

Nigeria to provide feedback and consider the appropriate risk management measures, the suspension of imports of dried beans applied until June 30 this year. He said that the Nigerian authorities must provide an export control plan to assure that the beans exported to the EU comply with the EU Minimal Risk Levels for Hazardous Substances. Amato also said the key to economic development was not protectionism, but a good mix of policy measures and reforms capable of increasing the competitiveness of all sectors of the economy and consequently Nigeria’s trade relations with the rest of the world. He argued that one tool that would considerably enhance

trade relations and increase the potential to diversify the exports from Nigeria to the EU was the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the EU and ECOWAS. According to him, the criticism raised against this agreement is often due to an emotional and misconceived perception of the agreement. The agreement provides for the immediate removal of all tariffs on imports from West Africa to the EU, while it provides for a gradual reduction of tariffs on imports from the EU to West Africa over a period of 20 years and only for machineries, intermediate and capital goods, while allowing West Africa to maintain tariff protection over its agricultural products and consumer goods.

L-R: Chairman, Corporate Services and Strategic Committee, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), John Auliya and MAN President, Dr. Frank Jacobs (third left), receiving gift from Indian investors at the just-concluded MAN trade fair in Lagos.

‘FG’s change agenda a mirage without infrastructure’ Taiwo Hassan

to improve the quality of products manufactured, exported and exchanged in the Nigerian market and to protect consumer rights. “In these projects, the EU is partnering with GIZ, DFID (Department for International Development) and UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organisation). “Although it is true that there were a number of food products (such as melon seeds, dried meat, palm oil) imported from Nigeria that were sometimes rejected at the EU border because they were found to contain dangerous substances for human health, the import suspension measure adopted by the EU only concerned dried beans. Amato said to give room for

ing sector so that all of us can operate at the same level in this country in order to enhance investment drive. Those challenges need to be addressed squarely to move the industry forward rather than the diversification programme of the Federal Government. “Today, we know that power supply in this country is nothing to write home about, so there is need for the government to do something in that area to ensure that there is adequate power supply in the country. We cannot move our goods from one part of the country to the other via road transport. We need to develop a robust rail transport network in the country.” The MAN president added that it would take billions of naira in investments on the part of the government to solidly bring back the country’s infrastructure to a stage investors would be keen to invest in Nigeria. He, however, said that the government should also look into other critical areas that could stimulate growth and development in the country.

BoI raises recipients of YES scheme to 4,000 Taiwo Hassan

uoyed by the volume of registration on its online portal, the Bank of Industry (BoI) has increased the number of would-be loan beneficiaries from 1,200 to 4,000 in its Youth Entrepreneurship Support (YES) programme. Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, BoI, Waheed Olagunju, revealed this at the inauguration of a sevenman committee to screen YES participants and presentation of a roadmap on the programme in Lagos. Olagunju, who said the YES programme was initially targeted at 10,000, expressed shock at the 40,000 entries within a space of six-week. He said the figure represented 300 per cent increase in the number of entries for the scheme, where BoI had already set aside N10 billion. His words: “Having no-

ticed the huge volume of registration on the online portal at 40,000, which has far outstripped the 10,000 entries earlier envisaged by 300 per cent over the six-week period, we have therefore come to the conclusion that we should provide more opportunities for the youths by increasing the number of would-be loan beneficiaries from 1,200 to 4,000. Efforts will be made to ensure a fair distribution of the beneficiaries in consonance with the proportion of entries received from the six geopolitical zones.” On the number of entries received from the six geo-political zones, the BoI boss said: “It is also interesting to note the pattern of correctly completed applications received all around the six geo-political zones with the South West leading at 29 per cent and closely followed by the North East (23 per cent), North Central (16 per cent), South South (13 per cent), North West (12 per cent)

and South East (seven per cent) in that order.” In his keynote address, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, said that the government was committed to its financial inclusion programme in a bid to reduce the high unemployment rate in the country. He said the government was committed to creating jobs for the teeming youths in the country, stressing that the YES programme was one of the key programmes President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration would explore to tackle the menace of unemployment. Enelamah said that the BoI YES programme was designed to enhance entrepreneurship capacity among the youths, adding that the government would endeavour to meet the aspirations of the youths by providing all the support needed by BoI to successfully implement the YES programme.

THURSDAY, may 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Nigeria’s telecoms regulator is working with stakeholders to develope a water-tight regulatory framework for growing the value-added services (VAS) sub-sector of the industry. KUNLE AZEEZ reports

eWORLD

Perfecting telecoms’ VAS regulatory framework

or over a decade, the nation’s telecoms industry has existed without a firm and robust regulatory regime for the Value Added Service (VAS) sub-sector of the industry. Yet, the VAS market has grown organically from meager revenues in 2001 to a multi-billion dollar industry in 16 years. It is also instructive that while the VAS market in Nigeria is currently worth N300 billion, as potential revenue, Nigerians have been responsible for 90 per cent of the success story. The growth in the telecoms industry, which currently boasts of over $34 billion local and foreign direct investment (FDIs), has, indeed, created new industries such as e-commerce and sub-sector such as the bourgeoning telecoms VAS market. Till date, close to 200 VAS providers with offerings spanning security, health, educational, financial, communication, entertainment, government, development services, are operating in Nigeria. The importance of the VAS market becomes more apparent when it is reckoned that it is helping so solve the youth employment problem in the country, as it has created over 9,000 direct employments and over 85,000 indirect jobs. Regulatory gap However, about 16 years have passed without a discernible and effective self-regulatory structure among the key players in the telecoms VAS market including the mobile network operators (MNOs) and the VAS content providers. A more negative development in the telecoms VAS market is the barrage of complaints the over 150 million mobile sub subscribers have about VAS such as unsolicited calls and short messaging service (SMS), spamming, forced activations, deduction of call credits, among others. Another problem observable in the industry is the lack of a level-playing ground among the operators in the area of revenue-sharing formula, where the VAS providers have always complained of being short-changed by the MNOs, which is the gateway for carrying their messages to the subscribers. For instance, VAS providers consider the current revenue sharing formula as unfavourable to them with revenue of

Danbatta

60 by 40 per cent between the MNOs and the VAS providers, under the auspices of the Wireless Applications Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN). Sanitising the VAS market While there have been various engagements by stakeholders in the past, especially between the MNOs and VAS providers in the past, such engagement became more valuable when the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), rose to the challenge of addressing the inundation of complaints on VAS services by telecoms subscribers and to create increased sanity among the players by streamlining their operations through a regulatory framework. After much consultations, the NCC had come up with a draft regulatory framework, published the documents for industry stakeholders to see while soliciting their inputs into the documents for an allencompassing policy to effectively regulate the VAS market. Consequently, the regulator, after having received inputs and incorporated same into the policy framework, organised a consultation forum on the draft policy in Lagos, last week with a view to subjecting the document to industry stakeholders as a final stage to producing a policy framework that captures all aspects of the nation’s VAS market. Speaking at the forum, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, said the purpose of the gathering was to reflect on the draft

Ezeh

NCC has given VAS players three more weeks to make new inputs into the policy framework ‘

regulatory framework for the provision of VAS in Nigeria in another demonstration of the Commission’s commitment to its auspicious Eight-Point Agenda unveiled early in the year to further develop the industry. He said the Commission had noted that, except it was determined to develop and encourage quality local content in Nigeria by rewarding content developers, who are the major players in the VAS segment of the industry, the NCC’s vision would be obstructed. Demystifying the draft document Speaking in a presentation at the forum, an NCC consultant, Mr. Stephen Bello, discussed extensively to the highly- attentive audience the key areas addressed by the regulator in the draft policy with re-classification of the players in the industry as one of the key areas. According to Bello, industry has been restructured into VAS and content developers; VAS hosting and service providers; and Mobile network Operators (MNOs), saying that the aggregators would now be obtaining new licence fee of N10 million renewable after five years. Other areas explained by Bello, where the regulator has come up with improved interventions, include the unbundling of VAS for cost sharing, the decision for NCC to be sole generator and seller of short codes to VAS operators and MNOs, blockage of any text messages without properly registered caller ID, stoppage of unwanted mobile adverts, among others.

Divergent views Meanwhile, after Bello’s exegesis of the policy document came a vitriolic argument from WASPAN that its members’ inputs rooted to the Commission through the association earlier had not been incorporated into the draft regulatory framework. Indeed, WASPAN expressed divergent views on some sections of the VAS regulatory framework, especially the areas having to do with revenue sharing, new industry structure, introduction of fiveyear licensing fee of N10 million by VAS Hosting Companies, among others. In particular, the VAS providers unanimously tackled the regulator on some sections of the policy draft which, they argued, could stifle competition, disrupt the current market structure and work against national interest of local content policy. According to the National Coordinator of WASPAN, Mr. Chijioke Ezeh, who noted that current the VAS model has been in place since 2001 with periodic changes at various stages of the market expansion occurred, said they were in agreement with positive change such as the intentions of the NCC-proposed change to the status quo of the industry but that arriving a good framework has to be ‘inclusive and holistic.’ Ezeh raised concerns that if some sections are not reviews, the draft policy as it were, could hinder competition, lead to loss of jobs, discourage local content development, breed collapse of Nigeria VAS companies, unnecessary decimation of the digital industry, dearth of innovation, work against market evolution, constitute potential risk to national security, among others. According to him, while the NCC’s intention was well-conceived to regulate the industry, Ezeh noted that more time was needed to accommodate more views, especially from WASPAN, in order to have an industry friendly policy that addresses all the various aspects of the nation’s telecoms VAS market. More time for inputs Following the various observations made by stakeholders and especially the submission of WASPAN that it’s submissions were not properly incorporated in the document, the NCC, known for its resounding record of engaging in robust consultations before embarking on any policy, subsequently gave stakeholders three more weeks to make available to the Commission any other inputs they have with a view to producing a policy framework that encourages healthy competition and guarantees level-playing ground for all stakeholders.

business \ eWORLD

THURSDAY, may 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Firm offers solar to Nigeria’s power gap EFFICIENCY With solar power solutions, organisations and individuals could reduce power consumption by 85 per cent

Stories: Kunle Azeez

he development of solar technological solutions by one of Nigeria’s leading integrated Information and Communication Technology (ICT) company, Omatek Ventures Plc, is yielding results, as the firm is set to fill the power vacuum in Nigeria. Already, Omatek’s latest and modern solar factory has received further investment and expansion to immensely provide the assistance needed towards ensuring that the federal government delivers enduring power to Nigerians. Group Managing Director of Omatek Ventures Plc, Mrs. Florence Seriki, disclosed to New Telegraph on the sideline of a recent public forum in Lagos, She said that while power generation and distribution have been a major issue in the country, leveraging solar power solutions would play a significant role in dealing with the issue of power vacuum in the country. Explaining the readiness of Omatek to play a key role in the power provision for the country, Seriki said the 50KVA

three-phase off-grid solar solution commissioned earlier in its factory would provide a 24/7 power. This, she said, will result in 85 per cent reduction in power consumption for factories, banks, telecoms firms, government and other organisations that require big solar power installations. Omatek factory located in Lagos, currently assembles locally the 12watts, 20 watts, 500 watts power solutions. “The power solutions replace the ‘I-better-pass-my-neighbour generators’ for small homes, shops, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), churches, rural electrification and rural system, street lighting imple-

du Buhari’s agenda of finding a lasting solution to the perennial power problems in the country.” She added that the entry cost has reduced since the company has reduced the consumption required by about 85 per cent and “this reduces the solar wattage requirement.” Seriki, however, said “for this to go round most Nigerians, federal government and state governors can assist by encouraging smooth consumer-type procurement where civil servants, teachers etc can buy on consumer basis and pay over a period from salary deductions”. She added that this will bring smiles back to Nigerians, as sleeping in the heat

can be very depressing. The Omatek boss noted that students and farmers were not left out from the arrangement, as banks, leasing companies, insurance companies, cooperative societies etc can consider partnering to assist Nigerians to own this solution. “Omatek is currently engaging distributors, partners etc for this change process and for the bright future of our country,” she said. Explaining further, Seriki said one of the solutions the company is offering the market is solar-powered light integrated with inverter and solar – all in one.

Chairman, Commonwealth International Telecoms Union Group and former Acting Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission, Dr. Bashir Gwandu (left), and Director, Network Technologies, European Commission, Dr. Bernard Barani, at the Wireless-World Research Forum 5G Conference held recently in London, United Kingdom.

NCC tasks girl-child to embrace ICT in career he Nigeria’s telecoms regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has tasked Nigerian girls and women to get themselves digitally literate in their respective career in order to be competitive in the current global economy being driven by Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The regulator made the call at the 2016 ‘The Girls in ICT Day’ hosted in Nigeria by eBusiness Life magazine in Lagos. Speaking at the forum, Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, said the day was set aside by the International Telecoms Union (ITU) to raise awareness among young women about the importance of digital skills in their future professional endeavours, especially in building careers in ICT. The campaign has gained worldwide attention and is celebrated in over 150 countries around the world. According to Danbatta, who was represented by the Director, Public Affairs at NCC, Mr. Tony Ojobo, Nigeria’s ICT in-

mentation, schools and for students, farmers among others,” she said, stressing that there was no reason for students to still be reading with lantern in the new digital age. Current Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, noted a recent town-hall meeting in Lagos, that one of the solutions to the current power challenge is the adoption of hybrid solutions and power reduction strategies, as it is done in Ghana. Mrs Seriki said, “Omatek is now more than ready to partner with the federal government to offer affordable power solutions to communities and rural areas as part of President Muhamma-

dustry has opportunity to open the world of opportunities for many women. He noted that in the future growth of the ICT sector that currently contributes 10 per cent to the nation’s economy and is expected to be a major plank in the diversification agenda of the economy from oil, women would be among the major drivers. “What this also means is that the digitally-inclined girls of today, would be in the leadership position of the economy of this country in the next decade and beyond. A digitally-skilled generation of women would bring about a refreshing dimension in the quest to improve and diversify the nation’s economy.” He noted that the Commission has continued to provide facilities under the Digital Access Programme (DAP), where the NCC has provided computers and access to secondary and vocational schools. Danbatta explained that the idea was to enable students, including women to embrace the digital world as early as the secondary schools stage.

StarTimes hits 440 channels

frica’s frontline digital television platform, StarTimes, said it has increased its authorised channels to 440 consisting of news, movies, series, sports, entertainment, children’s programmes, fashion, religion, among others. Marketing Director, StarTimes, Mr. Oludare Kafar, disclosed this on the sideline of the company’s recognistion as Best Pay TV Operator at the coveted Beacon of Information and Communication Technology (BoICT) awards gala held in Lagos. “As a leading digital-TV operator in Africa combining satellite and terrestrial DTV systems, we today provide a robust signal transmission

service for public and private broadcasters that offers consumers outstanding Pay-TV programmes and owns a featured content platform with 440 authorised channels,” he said. The crème de la crème of technology policy makers, captains of industries, regulatory bodies and other key players attended the award ceremony. The forum commended StarTimes for its consumer friendly offerings, particularly its record-smashing Nova Pay TV bouquet for N600 monthly subscription. Kafar noted that as a business, StarTimes has embraced innovation and cutting-edge global technology solutions

to deliver compelling digital television experience to its millions of subscribers. “With very sharp picture quality, strong signals and rich channels that meet the entertainment need of every member of the family, we offer affordable bouquets of digital television as part of our commitment to guide Nigerians into full digitisation. We also engage in relevant collaborations with critical stakeholders to achieve this,” he said. Besides, Kafar noted that recently, StarTimes has invested heavily into sports content acquisitions and channels, and expanded entertainment horizon for sports loving Nigerians.

Mall deploys Wi-Fi tech for customers

he Lagos City Mall has struck a deal with Airtel Nigeria, one of Nigeria’s telecommunications companies, to provide free superfast wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) services at the mall as free value-added services to its numerous tenants and visitors. The Airtel Wi-Fi services were rolled out last year and are meant to serve public plac-

es like malls, airports, universities, hotels and event places. This service according to a statement, is for users with Wi-Fi-enabled devices such as mobile phones, laptops and tablets. Chief Executive Officer, Ibukun Efuntayo & Co, managers of the mall, Mr. Emmanuel Efuntayo, disclosed this in an interview in Lagos. He said the latest deal was

part of its current efforts at rewarding loyal visitors to the mall. Efuntayo stated that the Wi-Fi would provide superfast Internet services to mall visitors once they are within the premises and log on to the platform. He said the mall wanted to connect more with its tenants and visitors and at the same time help satisfy their communication needs.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Interview Kehinde: Late reporting responsible for high mortality in Lassa fever

Health

News Healing powers of onion

33 34

Managing heatwave, late rains The impacts of the current heat wave and late rain on the populace is overwhelming. As citizens lament their ordeal from the scorching heat, fears of imminent food shortage remain. Experts said timely meteorological forecasts, strategic food importation would avert food and nutrition insecurity. APPOLONIA ADEYEMI, MOJEED ALABI AND ELEAZAR NWANTI report

he Managing Director of RTO Farms and Hatchery in Osun State, Alhaji Babtunde Olayiwola, an engineer, has linked the challenge of heat waves currently ravaging the country to poor food and animal production, saying the development has been occasioned by late arrival of the rainy season. Speaking with New Telegraph yesterday, the owner of the largest hatchery farm in the state, said it is a common knowledge that once rains don’t come early in its season, food production is usually affected, adding that as an expert in animal production, he could conveniently confirm that Nigeria needs serious intervention to overcome the problem. “As it is now, productivity is very low for the birds and mortality rate has increased tremendously because any weather condition beyond 30-degree celcius is usually too hot for birds, particularly the heavy ones such as broilers. The situation has forced us to adopt mechanical methods to mitigate the challenges but such facilities might not be available to average poultry farmers, and this will automatically affect product supply in markets. We only pray it does not continue this way because the economy will be seriously affected,” Olayiwola said.

Appolonia Adeyemi Health Editor

appolonia.adeyemi@newtelegraphonline.com

Cooling their body temprature

Speaking in the same vein, Coordinator of a non-governmental organisation (NGO) called ‘No Agric No Deal’, Hajia Halima Njobdi admitted that late rains affects everything when it comes to farm production, the seeds or stem as all need a mixture of water and sunlight to enable them germinate. “I know that extreme events will likely reduce crop yields. “Weeds, diseases and insect pests are benefactors from warming which will require more attention with regards to pest and weed control.” She also highlighted another challenge that should be expected from the late rains – poor yields from agricultural produce. With little or no rain, malnourished crops could become serious problem because the nutrient from fruits and vegetables had become infested kwith pests, added Njobdi. While admitting that the late rains would result to food and nutrition insecurity in the country, a Professor of Nutrition and former President of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN), Tola Atinmo lamented that “what this means is that “many more people in Nigeria will go to bed hungry when the impact of the late rains begins to bite.” For the professor of nutri-

Experts have also linked both the expected food shortage and hot weather condition to various health challenges

Provision of abundant food in due season will tackle malnutrition

tion, the important thing is for the three tiers of government to plan. “If the rain is late, we can plan ahead through the importation of food that would redress the expected future food shortage. “The aim of such food importation should not be to make profit; hence, this planned importation should be properly regulated by the Federal Government to prevent some unscrupulous citizens taking advantage of the situation to make personal gains.” According to him, if not regulated, the foreign exchange for other purpose could end up

PHOTO: ww2.kqed.org

being wrongly channeled into the planned food importation that is meant to address future shortage, Atinmo added. Furthermore, he noted that since late rain is a natural occurrence that the nation cannot not stop, Atinmo urged relevant establishments including meteorological agencies to take charge by making timely forecasts on the weather and its impact. These will guide both governments and individuals in planning ahead, he said. Meanwhile medical experts have also linked both the expected food shortage and hot weather condition CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

Health \ features

Appolonia Adeyemi

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Only 40% with mosquito nets use them – Health Minister

s Nigeria join other countries to mark the 2016 World Malaria Day, the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Folorunso Adewole has expressed disappointment over the huge number of Nigerians that do not sleep under mosquito nets. This is contained in a statement from the Director of Media and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Health, Mrs Boade Akinola. The minister, who made the call at the World Malaria Day celebration in Sokoto, lamented that out of the L-R: Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole; Sokoto State Governor, Alhaji Aminu Waziri Tambuwal; people especially women Sokoto State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto; and the Minister of State for Health, Dr. and children under five Osagie Ehanire during the 2016 World Malaria Day commemoration in Sokoto recently years old, who have received mosquito nets, Adewole therefore ap- order for the country to State, Aminu Waziri Tammore than 60 per cent of pealed to Nigerians to combat malaria. buwal for demonstrating a them do not sleep under sleep under insecticideSimilarly, he commend- high level political will to mosquito nets. treated mosquito nets in ed the Governor of Sokoto end the scourge of malaria

in the state, and called on him to encourage his colleagues in the Governors Forum to do the same. Furthemore, he implored leaders at all levels to join hands with the Federal Government in eradicating malaria in the country. In his remarks, the Governor of Sokoto State also admitted that the state still has a lot more to do in the health sector despite the remarkable progress the state has recorded in the area of health care delivery in the state. Insecticidetreated nets were later distributed to some pregnant women and drugs to some local governments in the state to beef up the treatment of Malaria.

CMA condoles with NMA over death of doctors ERA seeks probe of BAT Eleazar Nwanti

ommonwealth Medical Association (CMA) has condoled with Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) over the accident which led to the death of six medical doctors and a driver, all of whom were part of the NMA delegation travelling from Ekiti State to the 56th Annual General Conference/Annual Delegates Meeting of the NMA on Sunday. In a statement signed by the Vice President of CMA, Dr. Osahon Enabulele, the association regretted that this happened when doctors were

Enabulele PHOTO: nimsanigeria. wordpress.com

eager to make contributions that would improve the quality of health among their people. “These distinguished Nigerians were prepared and much more eager to make greater contributions and selfless sacri-

fices not only to their institutions and Ekiti State, but the entire Nigerian Health System that is direly in need of quality health human resources, “said Enabulele. CMA urged Ekiti State Government and the NMA to honour the legacies of these great physicians and Nigerians, adding that the Federal Government should endevour to take drastic measures at making emergency medical services in all states functional. “Prompt emergency medical services must be made to be the norm on Nigerian highways and not the exception,” he added.

he Environmental Rights Action/ Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) has backed the call to investigate the activities of the British American Tobacco (BAT)n West Africa and particularly Nigeria, stressing that its activities in the recent time are life threatening. Deputy Director, ERA/FoEN, Akinbode oluwafemi, made this known at a press briefing on the occasion of the International Day of Action Against BAT, held yesterday in Lagos.

Akinbode said that BAT has not only engaged itself in influencing kids into smoking but also is involved in bribery in a bid to halt tobacco control legislation, especially in Africa. “We will not forget in a hurry the torturous process of getting the National Tobacco Control Bill (now Tobacco Control Act) into law just as we will not forget the tens of hurriedly-formed BAT front groups deployed to fight taxation, ban on Tobacco Advertising Promotion and Sponsorships (TAPS) and other life-saving provisions from getting into the final document,” Akimbode added.

cy disorder arising from the inadequate intake of carbohydrates, proteins and fat, diseases that would be prevalent among the populace include kwashiorkor, which is caused by a lack of protein in diet and marasmus. Marasmus is a form of severe malnutrition characterised by energy deficiency. A child with marasmus looks emaciated. The body weight of such a child is reduced to less than 60 per cent of the normal (expected) body weight for the age. “Marasmus kwashiorkor could also be a fallout from shortage of food occasioned by late rains,” Malomo explained. According to the dietician, families would discover that although, they have money, “it cannot buy what will give them adequate nutrition both quantitatively and qualitatively.

“By and large you will discover that the food that is coming to the table of individuals is reducing. “Before the late rains families would have noticed that they used to have varieties of food but due to the late rains they would discover that varieties of food that is available are reducing. “Similarly they will discover that animal protein was becoming expensive and alternative protein that they could resort to was also becoming expensive and not affordable.” Speaking further, he said if the food that gets to the table is reduced. This will ultimately reduce food that is consumed. “Once this happens, the body will not be able to get the necessary nutrients it needs for daily activities.”

Eleazar Nwanti

Averting food insecurity over late rains

Water yam tubers

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

to various health challenges including malnutrition, kidney problems, dehydration, heat rashes and respiratory problems, among others. A Dietician and Secretary of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN),

PHOTO: ww2.kqed.org

Lagos State Chapter, Olusola Malomo said the late rains would not only result to food shortage and increase in the cost of food stuffs, it would lead to the intake of inadequate food. According to him, micronutrient deficiency which could arise from

the consumption of food with inadequate vitamins and minerals, could lead to diseases such as vitamin A deficiency disease, iodine deficiency disorder (IDD), iron deficiency anaemia (IDA), and zinc deficiency. Also, Malomo said due to macronutrient deficien-

Medical

Facts

Brain more active at night

he brain is much more active at night than during the day. Logically, you would think that all the moving around, complicated calculations and tasks and general interaction we do on a daily basis during our working hours would take a lot more brain power than. An example is lying in bed. It turns out that the opposite is true. When you turn off your brain turns on. Scientists don’t yet know why this is but you can thank the hard work of your brain while you sleep for all those pleasant dreams. How facial hair grows Facial hair grows faster than any other hair on the body. If you’ve ever had a covering of stubble on your face as you’re clocking out at 5 o’clock you’re probably pretty familiar with this. In fact, if the average man never shaved his beard it would grow to over 30 feet during his lifetime, longer than a killer whale.

Shape of baldness You must lose over 50 per cent of your scalp hairs before it is apparent to anyone. You lose hundreds of hairs a day but you’ll have to lose a lot more before you or anyone else will notice. Half of the hairs on your pretty little head will have to disappear before your impending baldness will become obvious to all those around you. Check out blood vessels distance The human body is estimated to have 60,000 miles of blood vessels. To put that in perspective, the distance around the earth is about 25,000 miles, making the distance your blood vessels could travel if laid end to end more than two times around the earth. Role of saliva in digestion During your lifetime, you will produce enough saliva to fill two swimming pools. Saliva plays an important part in beginning the digestive process and keeping the mouth lubricated, and your mouth produces quite a bit of it on a daily basis. Jawbone, hardest in humans The hardest bone in the human body is the jawbone. The next time someone suggests you take it on the chin, you might be well advised to take their advice as the jawbone is one of the most durable and hard to break bones in the body.

Health \ INTERVIEW

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Mr. John Kehinde is the Director, Environmental Health and Head, Health Emergency Response and Disaster Management at the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH). In this interview with OBINNA ODOH, he speaks on the current situation of Lassa fever in Nigeria What is the situation in Nigeria now with regards to Lassa fever containment and the rumours about Zika virus possible outbreak in the country? Nigeria is very much in control of the situation concerning these two disease conditions. The purpose of establishing the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is to make sure that we prepare ahead of any disease outbreak. When you prepare very well by planing very well, you will plan to succeed. We all know that we have climate change in place. I will start from the recent outbreak of Lassa fever which is ravaging the country. We have what we call Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR). This system has been adopted through the World Health Organisation (WHO) structure since 1988 and today when we have NCDC it has been expanded even to the ECOWAS region, the African region strengthening us and the affiliates. This enables us to detect quickly at the community level and prepare appropriately at health facilities and then from health facilities to the local government areas (LGAs), and from LGAs to the state ministries of health, from the state ministries of health to the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) and then to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and partners. If you say it is an infection or disease of public health concern we alerted our neighbour states according to International Health Assembly of 2005 review. Based on this we know the climatic condition as I said earlier on the Lassa fever virus is a yearly occurrence during dry season. When our people are burning bushes that amounts to atomic splash which always transmit this Lassa virus through the urine and droplets from rats. When our people are burning bush these rats are being pursued out of their place of abode and when our people are spreading their food grain item along the road to be dried by sun. These rats go there and feed on it. They urinate on it and drop their faeces on it and unknown to humans they take it and eat and thereby contract the virus.

Kehinde: Late reporting responsible for high mortality in Lassa fever and that is why it is so aggravated this year. The outbreak started in Niger State in August last year. Unfortunately they thought it was ‘juju’ initially or the witchcraft practices so they didn’t report it on time because they believed if you do so you will die. ‘Juju’ means using diabolical approach to achieve specific goals. This continued until school headmaster reported that to the state Ministry of Education. So immediately the Federal Ministry of Health got to know about the matter around December it had already gone far. We have it at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria and from ABU to Lagos and Kaduna. We started having it in other states and you know that it is endemic in Edo State. So it spreads to Ebonyi, in Taraba, in Nassarawa. So we distributed the drugs to all the known states where we know that Lassa fever always occur. We prepard ahead. That is why some of these states did not record many casualties. However, due to mismanagement ie case management and delay in reporting, we have those states that have high mortality. As I am speaking to you right now some people are in the field working and collecting samples of suspected cases to confirm in our

five NCDC laboratories. That is why you can see the support being given to us today: choosing NCDC as Regional Centre for ECOWAS and Coordinating Unit for Africa Centre for Disease Control.

People should avoid bush burning and eating of rats that its tail is bigger than the body

Why is Lassa fever not trending now as it used to? Yes, it is not trending now as it used to because when you know that a disease has occurred and you know the treatment and arrange how to curtail it and bring chains of contacts, you have already conquered it. We have outlined precautionary measures by making sure that people engage in constant hand washing and also avoid spreading food items on the roads. People should avoid bush burning and eating of rats that its tail is bigger than the body. When people do all the needful then be rest assured that we have conquered it. That is one thing. You talked about Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) era, in conquering Ebola when we had the outbreak in Nigeria we have cosmopolitans at Lagos and Port Harcourt as they are with the strategy put in place and with the plan we have ahead with the Former Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu. Also with the help of partners supporting us we were able to

conquer Ebola. We have what we call Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) located in Lagos and Port Harcourt joined with the partners and all the volunteers helped us to win Ebola Virus. We brought them in, do the contact tracing as we are doing the contact tracing. The purpose of the chemicals we bought #23.2 million which we used in fumigation of the contaminated places and items was to decontaminate them and people later accused us of embezzlement. The chemical was used purposely when we traced anybody in any town we fumigated the environment to kill the virus. You know during Ebola virus era we had about 893 contacts and each of these contacts when you get to their house all their articles even the wall where it is expected they touched were fumigated to disinfect. That was the essence of using that money for containment. Yes, we used the chemical to decontaminate, to disinfect the environment, to kill all the virus that may be on the wall, on the table, etc. Note! It was meant for only disinfectant and killing of the virus. When you look at it we said that the application of the chemical is for the environment and the affected status. The chemical was not only for Lagos and Port Harcourt alone but other states. Victory over Ebola virus was not won by the people mentioned here alone even you journalists made significant contributions in terms of awareness, alert, sensitisation and publicity. Where does the allegation of embezzlement emanated from? It came from the fake doctor in the Federal Ministry of Health who is a unionist. When he felt that the fund released by Federal Government was meant for sharing and that was not forthcoming he mobilised his loyalists and went on protest, but Prof. Chukwu, the then Permanent Secretary, Mr. Linus Awute, and the NCDC boss, Prof. Nasidi and Kehinde did not approve of his ill intentions. Where is the fake doctor now, is he still serving as a federal civil servant? He is a unionist. He imposed himself as the President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), FMOH Branch. So, to cover up his misdeeds which I revealed to the whole world by going to such places he claimed he got his certificate and we were able to find out through the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and Federal Civil Service Commission that he is fake. His case is currently in court.

What is the current state of Lassa fever in Nigeria? The situation of Lassa fever in Nigeria is under control. We have about 23 states affected and to God be the glory with the effort of the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, the Minister of State for Health Dr. Osagie Ehanire, the Chief Executive Officer of the NCDC and all the workforce nationwide we are able to curtail the epidemic. Are you now saying that Lassa fever has been defeated and cannot be found anywhere in the country? Yes. I just returned from Bauchi State. We have new case reporting

Kehinde

So there is nothing like embezzlement of Ebola fund? My brother there was nothing as such. You heard it from AU delegates that they don’t give assistance in terms of physical cash and the same goes with WHO assistance. They have their aid that they render. The AU Ambassador said clearly that even Nigerian volunteers that worked during Ebola in Liberia and Sierra Leone were paid their entitlement through AU aid. The police has investigated these embezzlement we are talking about. The ICPC has investigated, the EFCC has investigated and they have cleared us of these allegations.

Health\News

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sleeplessness, sign of stress disorder

Healthy Living

Ihuoma Uko-Ndukwe ada.ndukwe@yahoo.com

S A patient undergoing radiotherapy treatment

PHOTO: hospitals.jefferson.edu

CEAFON wants multiple approach to cancer treatment Eleazar Nwanti

n order to optimise the treatment of cancer in Nigeria, the Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation of Nigeria (CEAFON) is advocating a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment in the country. President of CEAFON, Prof. Abayomi Durosinmi-Etti who made the call recently while announcing the date for the 2016 Cancer Summit,

also stated that the rising incidence of cancer in Nigeria calls for a holistic approach to the management and treatment of the disease. CEAFON is a non-governmental organisation set up in 2015 by seasoned medical practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, industries, other stakeholders and concerned individuals to address the issues that surround cancer care in Nigeria. According to Durosinmi-Etti, the age long practice where cancer

patients are attended to by just a particular doctor is no longer acceptable, as the treatment of cancer patients requires multifaceted expertise. “We are mobilising the medical experts in various aspects of cancer management to key into this approach so we can proffer better solutions to the disease.” He also spoke on the need for a National Standard Operating Protocol for cancer treatment that would make the management of cancer easier.

tress disorder is considered an some people not becoming symptomatic anxiety disorder precipitated by an until years after the events, spontaneous experience of intense fear or hor- recovery usually occurs but if coping ror while exposed to a traumatic experi- mechanisms are not adequate, distress ence especially life threatening event. It can develop over time. is associated with vivid collections of a Most people with traumatic experience traumatic event, avoidance of stimuli as- may not want to seek help thinking they sociated with that event and a constant have the resilient or ability to rely on their inner strength; and they may want to talk hyper arousal. Stress disorder occurs within four about it but prefer not to. weeks of the event that caused it and Persons with traumatic stress may exhappens mostly in people after witness- perience headache, stomach upset, joint ing, hearing about or being pain and difficulty sleeping. directly exposed to a traumatic Early identification may event such as motor vehicle acLife time risk of decrease chances of develcidents, sexual assault, robbery, oping post-traumatic stress being exposed disorder which is a trauma work related injuries, natural and stress related disorder or man-made disasters, sudden to traumatic that occurs after traumatic or unexpected bad news. The life time risk of being exposed stressor is high events. It is under recogto traumatic stressor is high but nised and under treated. more women than men have Some of the post-traumatbeen known to develop post traumatic ic stress syndrome might be in the form re-experiencing the event, avoidance of disorder Most common experience is with people, places or things that serve as a retrauma affecting 50 per cent of the af- minder of the trauma, negative changes fected populace which is persistently in mood and thoughts associated with with images, thoughts, dreams, illusion, the event and long-term hyper arousal flashbacks and reliving experience. Re- symptoms. Also, it might be in the form of havminders of trauma cause distress. There is marked avoidance of stimuli-places, ing recurrent, involuntary and distresspeople, conversations, activities and the ing memories of the events. In most children especially in those marked anxiety might lead to insomnia, irritability, poor concentration, hyper- older than six years, repetitive play may vigilance, increased startle response and occur in which themes or aspects of the motor restlessness. trauma are expressed and in younger Emotional and physical responses vary ones, there may be frightening dreams considerably after acute exposure, with without recognisable content.

Healing powers of onion W

henever I think of onion and its many health benefits, I cannot but wonder at the mystery of life. Onion is among the commonest vegetables around. It is available in every home all the year round. Have you ever heard of shortage of onions? Because our women can hardly cook without using onions, we take it for granted. It is time we overcome this sickness called ignorance and make use of the abundant gifts of God in Nature. Blessed are you among other vegetables, O Onion; Onion, you that is always available, a ready companion to humanity in troubled days. You that can make both men and women cry. Any wonder then that hired mourners use you to induce tears? Some housewives confided in me [please keep this to yourself o!] that whenever they needed a favour from their husbands they would peel onions to induce tears so as to win the sympathy of their husbands! Onion is a common name for many plants of the genus allium of the lily family: The true onion is allium cepa, wild onion is allium vineate, leek is allium ampeloprasum; garlic is allium sativum. Onions are originally grown in Iran and the Middle East before they now spread to other parts of the world, especially the tropics. Onion is made up of 60 percent allylpropyl disulphide, a volatile oil called sulphured glycosides. Onion contains the following enzymes: sulphur, iron, potassium, magnesium,

Nature Power

Anselm Adodo

naturepower@paxherbals.net twitter: @anselmadodo

fluorine, calcium, manganese and phosphorus. It also contains vitamins A, B, C and E, flanovoids [anti-cancer] and glycoquinine [anti-diabetic]. Onion is regarded as a versatile vegetable because it can be eaten in many ways: raw, grated, boiled or pickled. It is used as flavouring or seasoning. The characteristic pungent taste of onion is due to the presence of the volatile oils, sulphurous. Many uses of onion Pro-Biotic: Onion is one of the most potent natural pro-biotic. It strengthens the immune system, thus helping to ward of common ailments. For 20 years I have been recommending onions for many sick people and the positive results are endless. Simply chew a bulb of raw onion every night. It is as simple as that. As a starter, you may take half a bulb instead of one bulb and gradually increase it to one bulb. Science has confirmed that Onion works powerfully against the following bacteria: A. ESCHERICHIA COLI, which causes intestinal dysbac-

teriosis and urinary B. SALMONELLA TYPHI, which causes typhoid fever. C. SHIGELLA DYSENTERIAE, which causes bacillus dysentery D. STAPHYLOCOCCUS & STREPTOCOCCUS, which cause inflammation of the genital organs, damaged sperm cells, and skin infections and blemishes. E. PLASMODIUM which causes malaria. HYPOLIDEMIC: Onion is found

Onions

to lower noxious cholesterol level in the blood. This is understandable when one considers the fact that Onion is rich in fibrinolytic substances that help to break up blood clots and so preventS coagulation. This makes Onion indispensable for many Nigerians who consume a lot of fat, meat and butter. ANTI-DIABETIC THERAPY: Combined with other herbs, Onion has proved very useful for lowering blood sugar. The hypoglycemic or anti-diabetic property of Onion is due to the presence of glycoquinine. Those who are afraid of developing diabetes because of the fact that their parents are diabetics should make friend with Onion, as it is a very good prevention against diabetes.

PHOT0: www.newsx.com

Looking out over ocean boosts mental health

or the first time, scientists have found a link between mental health and a view of the sea or ocean. This is contained in the findings published this week in the journal Health & Place. Carried out by researchers from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand and Michigan State University in the United States (U.S), the study looked at a possible association between an increased visibility of nature and a lower level of psychological distress. The team surveyed around 450 adults in Wellington City, New Zealand and used data on the visibility of “blue” space and “green” space from residential locations in the area. Blue space included the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean, which surround Wellington, while green space included forests and grassy parks. After taking into account factors such as participant’s wealth, age and gender, the team found that an increased visibility of blue space was significantly associated with lower levels of psychological distress.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Mom&Parenting

Parenting

Mom’s Alert

Child marriage or child prostitution?

Why moms should care how they look

Appolonia Adeyemi

s she spoke about her experience, the entire hall went suddenly quiet and you could literarily hear the drop of a pin. The details were chilly, disturbing and simply incredible: Rose (not real name) had been raped by 12 different people for a total of 15 years, starting at age five, till she clocked 20 almost uninterrupted and under her parents’ roof at Makoko, Lagos’ largest slum! More disturbing is the fact that most of the culprits were her uncles, cousins and other relatives residing with them. All along she couldn’t confide in her parents because the rapists threatened her continuously. The above testimony formed part of activities featured at a one-day seminar held by the Centre for Children’s Health Education, Orientation and Protection (CEE-HOPE), a child’s rights NGO to draw attention to rising incidences of rape in the country and to equip young girls on necessary information to avoid being added to the increasing statistics of victims. “We organised the seminar so as to sensitise our girls on protecting themselves against the background of rising incidences of rape. We believe that information is power and with better awareness, they are not only able to prevent sexual assault but also help their peers in their various communities,” said Betty Abah, founder for CEE-HOPE organisation. About a hundred young girls from eight impoverished communities across the two states were attracted to the event. They were admonished mostly by seasoned speakers, on how to prevent rape, report potential rape cases as well as serve as peer educators to fellow girls in their communities that may be facing similar challenges. The girls and young women, including teenage mothers, were drawn from communities including Makoko, Oko-Agbon, Badia

Mom&Parenting

Oluwatosin Omoniyi City Editor

Members of the CEE-HOPE’s ‘Triple G’ Girls’ Club displaying anti-rape messages during the organisation’s seminar on ‘Guard Against Rape’ in Lagos...recently

Equipping girls to tackle rapists East, Ottodo-Gbame (Lagos) and Ota, Legun, Matogun and Agbado-Oja (Ogun State). Besides providing hints on rape prevention, some of the speakers also shared their experiences to inspire the girls. Mrs. Chinyere Anokwuru, President of Self Worth Women Development Organisation, a former Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Women and Girls Affairs, for instance narrated how she went from being an unemployed graduate making phone calls by the road side to survive, to becoming a topranking government official by ‘dedication, sacrifice and God’s grace’. “It was also a good thing to have the experts admonishing them. We all benefitted from their wealth of experience and are very grateful. We will continue to work for the rights, improvements and development of the most vulnerable of Nigerian children. Protecting them against the virulent rape epidemic is a major vision,” added Abah. Faith Ogbonna, 23, a

member of CEE-HOPE’s GirlsGo-For-Greatness (aka ‘Triple G’) girls club in Makoko who attended the seminar, said it was life-transforming. “I found the seminar very, very beneficial’ she said. “It was quite inspirational and provided the opportunity that many of us are looking for, to gain as much information as possible on protecting ourselves. It is indeed a turning point, a good foundation and I know the information will go a long way for many of us. I would say that many of the girls from the rural areas were hearing the information for the first time. It is an opportunity that many don’t have. We also had a lot fun. We are very, very grateful to CEE-HOPE. I love what they are doing, spreading necessary information and changing lives in remote corners and I hope to be more involved in their programmes.” Abah said the seminar will be replicated in other parts of Nigeria with time. Other synopsis of rape cases highlighted included pathetic tales of some victims as narrated below.

Life was smooth going and everything seemed normal to Mama Denrele, 70, as she was fondly called in the neighbourhood of Ogba in Lagos. She had no premonition of what life had in stock for her. Innocently and ignorantly, she went about life. On this fateful day, she was engrossed in her domestic chores, in fact with an air of total security as the gate was securely locked. The person who was present with her in the house was a close friend and age mate of her late son, Joju who visited her from time to time to offer a helping hand with domestic issues. Joju’s kind gesture was to fill the gap left behind by the sudden death of Denrele. Whenever Joju was around, he usually run errand for Mama. The practice began even before the unfortunate date of her son. On this particular day however, as Joju entered and met Mama in the living room to update her on how far he had done with assisting her with cooking. Without a second thought, he pinned the old woman down and raped her. The attempt of Mama Denrele

who was 70, to shout for help was prevented by Joju who covered her mouth. Mama wept bitterly throughout the rape saga, lamenting why on earth she should be a victim of rape, but Joju threatened to kill her if she dares to tell anyone about this experience. In another incident, a 55-year-old man, identified as Osaro, was arrested by men of the Edo State Police Command for allegedly defiling his nineyear-old daughter. Osaro, according to his wife, Stella, had earlier impregnated their 17-year-old daughter. Stella disclosed that she recently returned to her husband’s house after he said he had repented. She said: “My husband wanted to sleep with my second daughter. He later succeeded in sleeping with my other daughter. After impregnating the girl, he begged me several times to forgive him. Yet in another related development, a commercial motorcyclist, popularly called ‘Okada Man’, Salisu Abubakar, was recently remanded in prison custody by a Gusau Chief Magistrates’ Court sitting in Zamfara State, for allegedly raping a female passenger, Salina Saidu. According to the prosecutor, Corporal Ibrahim Aliyu, Saidu of Kwari village, Shinkafi Local Government Area of the state, had reported the case of rape at Kaura Namoda Police Station on February 22, 2016. Available records show that the Mirabel Centre centre which is domiciled at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) recorded over 740 cases including rape, defilement and sexual assault since its inception in July 2013. Seventy-six per cent of the cases involve children under the age of 17 years. The youngest sexual assault case recorded by the centre happened to a 10 month- old baby. Going by the above report, it is very clear that the incidence of rape cases in the country is on the increase, although many go unreported. It was indeed an interesting, revealing and educating moment with sound and experienced speakers like Princess Olufemi-Kayode Executive Director of Media Concern for Women and Children (MediaCom), a foremost rape expert, herself a survivor. Also in attendance were Juliet Olumuyiwa-Rufai of Mirabel Centre, a rape management centre at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), as well as Ms Abimbola Junaid, Executive Director of Arise Nigerian Women were among the speakers.

Mom&Parenting

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

i-Protect

Childhood Protection & preservation culture

with

Taiwo Akinlami principal@taiwoakinlami.com

‘Child marriage’ is ‘domesticated child sexual abuse

Child marriage or child prostitution?

efore embarking on this journey of serious advocacy (as my calling and nature has been for the better part of my adult life), at this season when we celebrate workers, I was caught between two opinions: The first is to refuse to interrupt our well-deserved celebration as workers and give rest to the burden of my heart to plead the cause of the group of children, whose immense suffering has occupied my conscience and consciousness in the past weeks. The second is to go ahead and do this advocacy all the same despite the peculiarity of the season. I chose the latter because this Gospel According to Child Protection must be preached in season and out of season. There are many precious children, who have never celebrated anything since they were in the womb and who may not have celebrated with their families as they are either without parents or their parents are unemployed or retrenched and could not celebrate workers’ day. I shall be closing out on my advocacy for the year, spending this week and the next to call attention to the plague of ‘Child Marriage’ and ‘Child Prostitution.’ 700 women alive today were said to have been ‘married’ before 18 and more than one-third are said to be less than 15 years old when they were ‘married.’ My advocacy today touches more on the use of terminologies, known as ‘Child Marriage’ and ‘Child Prostitution.’ I strongly believe that the use of the foregoing terminologies shields the evil of both practices and gives a sense of legitimacy to the practices. I beg to submit today that by the universally acceptable definition of marriage as voluntary union between a man and a woman, it is impossible for a child to marry or be married. Therefore what we all erroneously refer to as ‘Child Marriage’ today is nothing but what I call ‘Domesticated Child Sexual Abuse or Molestation’. I am aware that there is a minority of

people, who for personal gains or parochial argument from the perspective of religion, who are of the view that a child(any one below 18) could marry or be married. But it is high time we make it clear that such position does not pass the test of universality of the agelong description of the sacred institution of marriage. Besides, considering the dire and bizarre consequences of the practice forcing a child into sexual relationship with an adult in the name of marriage, it is clear that such is against natural order of creation. I am also aware that the campaigners against this practice may use the terminology of ‘Child Marriage’ for ease of understanding. But my challenge is that we cannot sacrifice truth and universal definitions on the altar of ease of understanding. A child cannot be said to have married. Every child, who is in the house of a man or woman today, is not in marriage. She or he is suffering from what I have chosen to refer to as ‘Domesticated Child Sexual Abuse or Molestation.’ Permit me to conclude today by pointing to the basic ingredients of a proper marriage: The first is capacity. Capacity here refers to age or maturity. In this instance, this is a function of number. Anybody below 18 years doesn’t have capacity to enter into marriage. It is important to note that though capacity is measured by age, it also speaks to psychological and physiological development of the parties. The second ingredient is Consent. This refers to mutual agreement to enter into a marriage relationship. Even where parties pass the test of capacity, they must of necessity consent to the relationship. Consent here must be an informed consent and not coaxed or induced. Upon contracting a marriage, there is what is known as consummation of the marriage. This simply refers to sexual intercourse between a man and a woman, who are married.

THE VIRTUOUS MOM with

Hameed Opeyemi abdulvirtuepen@gmail.com

Parenting vs. Heatwave! An occurrence that tamper with parenting at core Putting mothers trough fear and all in high gear Using the climatic touch to hunt our ways and lifestyle Just not clear in term but seems harmful to living Mothers need to keep more eyes on the kids and all It’s time for the yearly and deadly astronomical event In ways and lane of the encyclopedia, it means Equinox changes the plane of earth equator Making this to pass through sun-centre to disturb Just as it as occurs in the past years of March to September Leading to dehydration, metamorphoses to sun stroke Giving more harm to the body as cane of beat in stroke Mothers! Beware of the weather of this day and time Look out for the heat fire sun that pinches the earth to scratch Turning the body to haven of heat rashes and profuse sweating Mothers! Beware of the heat of this time coming hot and hot Turning children to town-crier and elders to tremble like mourners The consequences in number as dehydration to sun stroke Gone are the days of Ebola as diseases that destroy man It turns around to another wolf in name of Lassa as fever The one through the home and neighborhood domestic rats When fear of life loose to an inferno hit us soul to soul We all live in panic wandering what more to the life of rats

Now the tales by the daylight is from the heat of the sun… More complain and struggle in a state of fuel famine Electricity supply to quench heat through home appliances Free hart of tree planting here and there to assist for more air All not in this territory of the Nigerians, so touching and draining Now making the danger of equinox more open to one and all Now the young and old can’t sleep at night with comfort of heart Some says in disguise, that equinox is mere exaggeration From the medicals, it’s worth to watch it closely than ignore They said with equinox, duration of light and darkness is equal With the primary cause as clear skies to radiation of the sun is more More… that it releases heat in multiple to the earth through heavy sunny As more bacteria fills the atmosphere coming down to take earth stage Mothers need to take the centre-stage of controlling this inferno Save the kids from the burden of equinox, give balance diet daily More water for all, to maintain the hydration level of the body Now the weather is hotter than normal, bathing twice is ideal Imagine health implications as measles, meningitis, and stroke As this list is endless, not just a lullaby to safe the crying child If our home is our home, our home must be secured Keep close more air; bring on more as fun for living Kick out equinox, for a healthy home a wealthy state Keep close massive fresh air, kick out the equinox phenomenon!

MOM’S ALERT with

Grace Essen

grace.essen@gmail.com

Why moms should care how they look “M

y friends told me and we just couldn’t be bothered. that being a mom is This is a huge mistake. We often a hard work, that it encourage infidelity in our men influences both your daily rou- when we neglect ourselves, and tine and your appearance. I didn’t we don’t even realize that. Our take these words seriously until spouse is one reason we should I had my kids. As a 43 years old look good! The second reason is single mother, my children are our children. We want them to the only thing that makes my life be proud of us, especially when happy. So I practically poured my they are with their friends. I time and energy into taking care heard about a mom who went to of them, I never paid much at- visit her daughter in a boarding tention to myself, I didn’t care school, the girl refused to come much about fashion and beauty, out and meet her. After waiting so my appearance was never my endlessly, she dropped the items big concern. But when my mum she brought with her daughter’s told me that I look much older friends and left. The girl’s reason than she, I decided to reanalyze was that her mother’s appearmy life. ance embarrasses her. At first, I tried to defend myself Also, by staying beautiful, justifying that my children take healthy and fit we are telling all my energy and time, so all this our kids do the same. Thirdly, makeup, skin we live in a society care, nail fixwhere appearance is a big deal. Your ing and spa appearance tells stuff are simmuch more about ply not for me. Your appearance I thought that you (and faster too) tells much more if my husband than your words about you (and left me, men can. If you want to and appearance advance in your cafaster too) than mean nothing reer or business or your words can in my life anyeven get a job, want more. Kids are to make a good imeverything to pression all the time me now. Why because you never should I care how I look?” know when or where the next big “My colleague at work told me deal or ‘open door’ may meet you. time and time again that I apNot many of us are experienced peared like I wasn’t taking good in skincare or makeup or nails or care of myself. I didn’t believe a lashes and all of that, so we ransingle word she was telling me domly buy beauty products: differuntil one day I took a good look ent face washes, anti-wrinkle and at the mirror and saw who I nourishing creams, serums, primhad become. I saw a desperately ers, moisturizers, lipsticks etc. tired woman with dark circles Some of them the wrong produnder eyes, wrinkles, darkened ucts for our skin type. Most times complexion… and looking like we use them wrongly, only once I badly needed self care. I won- in a while, or we never get to use dered how come it took so long them at all. We all want to look for me to notice! At that moment, good no doubt. But it takes some I suddenly understood what my effort. It all starts with showing a friend was saying; I thought she little bit of care - that you wcare was being nosy but now I see she about yourself, and then you take cared. But I wondered why no one needed action. Get to know more about YOU. in my family noticed!” It’s all too familiar seeing Discover your skin type and women going about in what looks get the products what will give like quick pony or better put, pig you an improved appearance, tails, no makeup, tiny jewelry, find out what clothing styles and and ill fitting outfits. The very colors will look good on you and convenient excuse is, “I am a go for them, same goes for hairmom, why should I care how I styles. Accessorize too. Get some look?” The first two paragraphs rest when you need it, drink lots captures life experiences of two of water and eat good food. When moms who like most moms give you consider that you are worth all their time and energy to their it, you will do this effortlessly. kids and other stuff that demand Think of the likely results our attention, at the end of the you will receive compliments day, we have no time left to care on your looks, all the bags and for ourselves. wrinkles around your eyes will There are at least three rea- disappear, and you will look years sons why I think we should care younger and the more you do about how we look. First, charity this, the more you will feel good about yourself. they say begins at home. Many of us think that once we are marOf course, your life will change ried, we are married, so we no greatly. People will think differlonger try to keep up the fabulous ently about you and that will look - the stress is just too much bring many good things your way.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS | Money Line

Analysts predict 13.2% inflation

RISING Fuel scarcity, forex restrictions raise prices

Stores by Tony Chukwunyem

nalysts at Financial Derivatives Company Limited (FDC) have predicted that inflation will rise to 13.2 per cent in April from the 12.8 per cent recorded in March. They made this forecast in the firm’s latest Economic Bulletin made available to New Telegraph yesterday. The analysts said, “We are projecting a steep rise in Yearon -Year (YoY) April inflation to 13.2 per cent, 0.4 per cent higher than that of March (12.8 per cent). This will be the fourth consecutive monthly in-

crease in 2016. If our forecast is accurate, it will be headturning for the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) which has barely recovered from the spike in March.” The experts attributed the expected increase in April inflation to the lingering fuel scarcity, which according to them, hurt economic activities and pressurised consumer prices. They also stated that rising transport costs and seasonality as well as forex restrictions, were driving costs of food and staples and perishables. According to the analysts, “The FDC Lagos urban inflation index increased by 0.3 per cent from 10.96 per cent to 11.26 per cent. This was driven by the significant increase of 2.89 per cent in the food basket

despite a reduction of 1.17per cent in the non-food basket. “The Year-on-Year (YoY) food index increased to 15.33 per cent from 12.44 per cent, while the YoY non-food index decreased to 9.04 per cent, from 10.21per cent in March. Seasonality is affecting food supply.” The FDC analysts pointed out that following the increase in the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) from 11 per cent to 12 per cent at the last MPC meeting, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) was under pressure to increase policy rates again. “With real returns back in negative territory, the CBN will have to deliberate on the efficacy of using interest rates to contain the current inflationary trend. The absence of a foreign exchange policy,

FirstBank steps up support for SMEs

n recognition of the key role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in national development, First Bank of Nigeria Limited has over the years demonstrated a strong commitment to the business success of these firms in Nigeria. In a statement, the first tier lender said it has a cocktail of products specifically designed to help grow and sustain SMEs, enable them play out their business scripts as well as fulfill their goals and aspirations. In addition, the Bank offers

advisory services that are tailored to meet the needs and aspirations of their SME customers. Some of the Bank’s SME products include, “Contract and Invoice Discounting Finance” which enables SMEs to effectively fund bigger contracts. The product is designed to finance contractors who need immediate funding for working capital requirements while awaiting payment for goods/services supplied or contracts executed for reputable companies. Similarly, “The Import and Export Finance” is another

product that helps the customer finance imports and exports as well as tracks all transactions. FirstBank also uses the payments and collections solutions to facilitate effective money collection from distributors and customers of SMEs. According to FirstBank’s spokesperson, Folake AniMumuney, the Bank is committed to supporting its customers with customized products and services designed to ensure a continuous success story for every SME.

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

N19,142,526.05m N18,579,219.49m 12.8 12 10.77 US$44.15 US$26,977,402,426

Mar, 2015 Mar, 2015 Feb, 2016 28/03/2016 Mar 2015 4/5/2016 3/5/2016

Source:CBN

Description 15.10 27-APR-2017 16.00 29-JUN-2019 15.54 13-FEB-2020 16.39 27-JAN-2022 14.20 14-MAR-2024 12.50 22-JAN-2026 10.00 23-JUL-2030 12.1493 18-JUL-2034 Tenor (Days) Call 30 90 180

FGN Bonds

TTM

Price 104.96 114.56 112.10 120.50 109.35 100.24 83.91 98.09

1.08 3.25 3.87 5.83 7.95 9.81 14.31 18.30

NIBOR

Rate (%) 15.0000 10.6864 12.4601 13.8466

Bid Yield 10.09 10.57 11.56 11.46 12.32 12.45 12.43 12.41

Change (%) 2.17 ▲ 0.20 ▲ 0.24 ▲ 0.22 ▲

Change (%) 0.04 ▲ 0.00 ↔ 0.25 ▲ -0.07 ▼ 0.08 ▲ 0.05 ▲ 0.05 ▲ 0.04 ▲

Price 105.11 114.86 112.40 120.80 109.65 100.54 84.21 98.39

Tenor (Months)

NITTY

Rate (%) 5.4817 7.3699 7.8938 9.2453 9.3846 10.0913

1 2 3 6 9 12

Treasury Bills

Offer Yield 9.95 10.47 11.47 11.40 12.26 12.40 12.38 12.37

Change (%) 0.04 ▲ 0.00 ↔ 0.25 ▲ -0.07 ▼ 0.08 ▲ 0.05 ▲ 0.04 ▲ 0.04 ▲ Change (%) 0.25 ▲ 0.06 ▲ 0.29 ▲ 0.60 ▲ 0.45 ▲ -0.44 ▼

Money Market

Maturity Date Discount Bid Yield Change (%) Discount Offer Yield Change (%) Rate (%) Change (%) 7.90 8.06 0.26 ▲ Open-Buy-Back (OBB) 12.67 0.00 ↔ 30-Jun-16 8.15 8.32 0.26 ▲ 22-Sep-16 8.71 8.46 8.82 0.46 ▲ Overnight (O/N) 13.75 0.42 ▲ 9.10 0.46 ▲ 9.06 9.92 0.00 ↔ 16-Mar-17 9.31 10.22 0.00 ↔

Spot($/N)

Bid 198.45

Offer 198.55

Change (%) 0.00 ↔

NIFEX

Spot($/N)

Bid 199.0000

CBN Clearing Rates of January 7, 2016 Spot($/N)

196.00

197.00

0.00 ↔

Offer 199.1000

Change (%) 0.00 ↔

which still continues to be a major factor leading to uncertainty, has to be addressed at the MPC,” the analysts stated. However, the analysts predicted that although inflation was likely to remain high in May, it could drop to 12.5 per cent because of consumer resistance to the sustained rise in consumer prices. As they put it, “As the production possibility frontier increases, prices of goods are expected to decline.” The FDC analysts noted that

the rising inflation rate and the benchmark interest rates have impacted treasury bill rates, which have been on the increase in recent weeks. “We expect the upcoming MPC meeting to have a bearing on the direction of T-bill rates. Meanwhile, liquidity positions are expected to remain at current levels pending significant inflows, and we therefore anticipate interbank interest rates to trade within the band of 3per cent per annum- 5per cent per annum,” the analysts said.

DMO to issue N105bn bonds on May 11

he Debt Management Office (DMO) announced yesterday that it plans to raise N105 billion in local currency denominated bonds on May 11. The DMO said it will sell N50 billion of a bond maturing in 2036, N40 billion of paper maturing in 2026 and N15 billion of debt maturing in 2020, using the Dutch auction system. Results of the auction are

expected to be released on the following day. All the bonds on offer are reopening of previous issues. Nigeria issues sovereign bonds monthly to support the local bond market, create a benchmark for corporate issuance and fund its budget deficit. It plans to borrow about N900 billion locally to finance part of the N2.2 trillion deficit in its 2016 budget.

Emefiele hosts African Central Bank Governors on Financial Stability

overnor Godwin Emefiele last night began the hosting of several central bank governors across Africa to discuss the effects of the exogenous shocks from the global economy on financial systems across the continent. In the aftermath of sharp drop in commodity prices, which is the main export and foreign exchange earner of most African countries, many financial systems across the world are still grappling with the adverse effects of these shocks. As CoChair of Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Consultative Group of the Financial Stability Board (FSB),

Gov. Emefiele, alongside the Governor of the Reserve Bank of South Africa, Mr. Lesetja Kganyago, according to a statement from the banking watchdog, is hosting this meeting at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja to find lasting, effective and common solutions that can be applied to AFRICAN financial systems. In addition, though, the group will also be focusing on finding country-specific solutions that best suit individual AFRICAN countries. In attendance are the Governor’s of the Central Banks of GHANA, Lesotho, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and many others.

Barclays to offer 12% stake in Africa unit sale

arclays Plc has said it intends to offer about one-fifth of its stake in Barclays Africa Group Ltd. as part of a plan to sell down its ownership of the business, Bloomberg reported yesterday. The move is part of Chief Executive Officer’s Jes Staley’s plan to accelerate his overhaul of the British bank. The Public Investment Corporation, Africa’s biggest money manager, will be a major investor in the placement of 103.6 million shares, or 12 per cent of issued stock, Barclays said yesterday in a filing. PIC will buy as much as 1.2 per cent of the total shares, according to the statement, adding to the 5.3 per cent it already owns. “This is an important first stage of our sell-down and keeps open both strategic and capital markets options for the

remainder of our 50.1 per cent shareholding,” the bank said in an e-mailed statement. “We have had interest from numerous potential investors.” Staley announced on March 1 the bank was retreating from Africa with other measures to raise cash, shrink globally and lighten its capital burden. One of the interested parties circling is former Barclays CEO Bob Diamond, who is readying a bid via a consortium of investors including U.S. privateequity giant Carlyle Group LP, seeking to combine the business with his African-banking company Atlas Mara Ltd. The U.K. lender owns about 62 per cent of Barclays Africa and has said it plans to reduce its ownership to less than 20 per cent, at which point it can deconsolidate the business and direct the capital to other units.

BUSINESS |Financial Market News

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

4-May-16

Bonds FGN Bonds

Price

Rating/Agency

Issuer

Description 13.05 16-AUG-2016 15.10 27-APR-2017 9.85 27-JUL-2017 9.35 31-AUG-2017 10.70 30-MAY-2018 ^16.00 29-JUN-2019 7.00 23-OCT-2019 ^15.54 13-FEB-2020 ^16.39 27-JAN-2022 ^14.20 14-MAR-2024 ^12.50 22-JAN-2026 15.00 28-NOV-2028 12.49 22-MAY-2029 8.50 20-NOV-2029 ^10.00 23-JUL-2030 ^12.1493 18-JUL-2034 ^12.40 18-MAR-2036

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

16-Aug-13 27-Apr-12 27-Jul-07 31-Aug-07 30-May-08 29-Jun-12 23-Oct-09 13-Feb-15 27-Jan-12 14-Mar-14 22-Jan-16 28-Nov-08 22-May-09 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10 18-Jul-14 18-Mar-16

13.05 15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 15.54 16.39 14.20 12.50 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493 12.4000

581.39 480.13 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 576.93 605.31 719.99 266.02 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 1075.92 80.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

6,407.46

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

6,297.08

Rating/Agency

Description

Issuer

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs)

16-Aug-16 27-Apr-17 27-Jul-17 31-Aug-17 30-May-18 29-Jun-19 23-Oct-19 13-Feb-20 27-Jan-22 14-Mar-24 22-Jan-26 28-Nov-28 22-May-29 20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30 18-Jul-34 18-Mar-36

0.28 0.98 1.23 1.32 2.07 3.15 3.47 3.78 5.73 7.86 9.72 12.57 13.05 13.55 14.22 18.20 19.87

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

Bid Price

Offer Price

8.30 11.49 11.68 11.73 12.10 12.63 12.78 12.92 12.84 13.08 13.22 13.31 13.33 13.34 13.36 13.49 13.54

7.79 11.33 11.54 11.60 12.01 12.52 12.65 12.82 12.77 13.02 13.16 13.27 13.28 13.28 13.31 13.44 13.50

101.26 103.25 97.92 97.13 97.49 108.50 84.20 107.59 114.04 105.36 96.07 110.14 94.87 70.01 78.79 90.94 92.14

101.41 103.40 98.07 97.28 97.64 108.80 84.50 107.89 114.34 105.66 96.37 110.44 95.17 70.31 79.09 91.24 92.44

6362.457269

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

03-Apr-12

17.25

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Modelled Price

1.20

03-Apr-17

0.49

2.94

12.48

102.20

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

0.16 0.16 0.96 0.68 1.66 1.47 1.49 1.45 1.45 1.64 2.06 3.55 2.02 4.56 4.66 2.69 2.72 3.97 3.50 3.53 4.03 6.46 3.62

4.46 3.48 1.00 5.71 2.39 1.00 1.00 3.82 3.56 3.82 2.02 2.01 1.00 1.30 3.76 2.53 1.00 1.52 4.01 1.00 2.52 1.79 3.04

11.03 10.05 12.40 16.01 14.28 12.80 12.81 15.61 15.35 15.70 14.11 14.81 13.07 14.19 16.64 14.93 13.42 14.21 16.80 13.80 15.35 14.66 15.86

100.38 100.76 97.88 98.57 99.54 101.50 101.51 98.61 98.31 99.65 102.30 99.14 102.83 97.73 94.75 99.05 103.31 103.09 99.18 106.97 105.54 109.02 102.85

29-Sep-16 25-Oct-16 08-Dec-16 19-Apr-17 06-Jul-17 30-Sep-17 30-Nov-17 09-Apr-18 09-Sep-18 09-Sep-18 30-Sep-18 18-Oct-18 17-Feb-19 01-Apr-19 06-Nov-20 14-Nov-20 04-Dec-20 20-Nov-21 30-Dec-21 13-May-22 26-Oct-22 30-Sep-24 30-Sep-24 29-Jul-30

0.40 0.48 0.60 0.96 1.17 1.41 0.86 1.18 1.35 1.35 2.41 1.46 1.54 1.66 2.26 4.53 3.03 5.55 5.66 6.02 4.19 8.41 8.41 9.54

1.00 1.34 1.00 5.49 5.25 1.88 1.88 3.15 6.35 1.00 1.17 4.42 6.11 3.28 4.47 1.00 3.55 2.51 1.00 1.00 2.77 1.00 1.00 1.00

10.01 10.79 10.97 16.89 16.90 13.65 12.89 14.81 18.09 12.74 13.43 16.21 17.94 15.17 16.66 13.89 16.12 15.36 13.85 13.87 15.67 14.12 14.12 14.21

101.10 101.55 102.79 99.64 99.51 99.16 104.76 101.19 99.79 103.77 101.10 99.39 100.01 101.10 97.17 104.45 98.56 95.93 109.89 110.41 100.93 110.44 95.76 103.40

10-Oct-20

2.55

3.37

15.70

98.10

Agency Bonds Nil

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1.20

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1.23

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

*BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO *DELTA *NIGER *EKITI *NIGER *ONDO *GOMBE LAGOS *OSUN LAGOS KOGI *EKITI *NASARAWA *BAUCHI *OYO *BENUE *PLATEAU KOGI *CROSS RIVER

30-Jun-11 30-Jun-09 19-Apr-10 30-Jun-10 31-Dec-10 30-Sep-11 04-Oct-11 09-Dec-11 12-Dec-13 14-Feb-12 02-Oct-12 22-Nov-12 12-Dec-12 27-Nov-13 31-Dec-13 31-Dec-13 06-Jan-14 09-Dec-14 17-Feb-15 27-Feb-15 30-Mar-15 01-Apr-15 27-May-15

14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016 15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016 10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017 13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017 14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017 14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018 14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018 14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018 14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019 15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 13.50 LAGOS 27-NOV-2020 15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021 15.50 BAUCHI 9-DEC-2021 16.50 OYO 16-FEB-2022 16.50 BENUE 27-FEB-2022 17.50 PLATEAU 30-MAR-2022 17.00 KOGI II 31-MAR-2022 17.00 CROSS RIVER 27-MAY-2022

14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.50 14.00 15.50 15.50 14.50 14.75 13.50 15.00 14.50 15.00 15.50 16.50 16.50 17.50 17.00 17.00

1.30 2.05 57.00 16.45 25.00 23.44 4.22 10.98 8.14 21.68 12.55 80.00 21.65 87.50 5.00 4.03 4.04 14.37 4.39 4.53 27.10 3.00 7.68

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

446.12 445.40

Corporate Bonds A+/Agusto; A-/GCR A-/Agusto Nil Nil Nil A/GCR BBB-/GCR Nil A-/DataPro†; CCC/GCR AAA/DataPro†; B/GCR A+/Agusto; A/GCR Bbb+/Agusto†; BBB+/GCR† BBB-/DataPro†; BB/GCR Nil A-/GCR A+/Agusto; A-/GCR Bbb/Agusto; A-/GCR BBB/GCR A/GCR BBB/GCR Bbb/Agusto; A-/GCR A/GCR A/GCR AAA/GCR

NAHCO FSDH ***LCRM UBA *C & I LEASING *DANA#{r} *TOWER# *TOWER# UBA *LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS# *DANA#{r} *FCMB NAHCO *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC *FCMB UBA FIDELITY *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC STANBIC IBTC STANBIC IBTC *NMRC

13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 0.00/16.00 LCRM 08-DEC-2016 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 19-APR-2017 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017 13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017 MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 14.00 UBA II 30-SEP-2018 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019 15.00 FCMB 6-NOV-2020 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 15.50 TRANSCORP 4-DEC-2020 14.25 FCMB I 20-NOV-2021 16.45 UBA I 30-DEC-2021 16.48 FIDELITY 13-MAY-2022 16.00 TRANSCORP 26-OCT-2022 182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IA 30-SEP-2024 13.25 STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024 14.90 NMRC 29-JUL-2030

29-Sep-11 25-Oct-13 09-Dec-11 20-Apr-12 06-Jul-12 30-Sep-10 30-Nov-12 09-Apr-11 09-Sep-11 09-Sep-11 30-Sep-11 18-Oct-13 17-Feb-12 01-Apr-14 06-Nov-15 14-Nov-13 04-Dec-15 20-Nov-14 30-Dec-14 13-May-15 26-Oct-15 30-Sep-14 30-Sep-14 29-Jul-15

13.00 14.25 0.00/16.00 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50 13.00 18.00 16.00 18.00 16.00 14.00 15.75 18.00 16.00 15.00 15.25 15.50 14.25 16.45 16.48 16.00 16.29 13.25 14.90

15.00 5.53 112.22 116.70 66.49 20.00 0.46 3.60 1.82 0.50 35.00 1.50 0.27 4.50 23.19 2.05 9.76 26.00 30.50 30.00 10.00 0.10 15.44 7.90

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

538.53

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

545.60

Sukuk BBB-/Agusto

10-Oct-13

14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020

*OSUN

14.75

9.40

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

9.40

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

9.22

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

IFC

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

11-Feb-18

1.77

1.00

11.22

98.36

Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P

*AfDB

11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021

10-Jul-14

11.25

12.95

01-Feb-21

2.99

1.00

11.91

98.38

Bid Price

Offer Price

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

24.95 24.54 Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value ($’mm)

Maturity Date

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

6.75 JAN 28, 2021

07-Oct-11

6.75

500.00

28-Jan-21

7.65

7.42

96.45

97.37

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

12-Jul-13

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

5.68

5.28

98.86

99.67

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

12-Jul-13

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

7.88

7.70

91.85

92.76

Issuer

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

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

FGN

BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,435.83

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

GTBANK PLC I

7.50 MAY 19, 2016

19-May-11

7.50

373.41

19-May-16

27.42

-6.09

99.42

100.38

B+/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

8.33

7.14

98.76

100.11

B/Fitch; B/S&P

FIDELITY BANK PLC

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

21.04

19.83

77.81

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

8.13

95.25

B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P

ZENITH BANK PLC

6.25 APR 22, 2019

22-Apr-14

6.25

500.00

22-Apr-19

9.22

92.46

79.42

B/Fitch; B/S&P

DIAMOND BANK PLC

8.75 May 21, 2019

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

17.35

16.39

80.31

82.24

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

FIRST BANK PLC ACCESS BANK PLC II FIRST BANK LTD

8.25 AUG 07, 2020 9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021 8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021

07-Aug-13 24-Jun-14 23-Jul-14

8.25 9.25 8.00

300.00 400.00 450.00

07-Aug-20 24-Jun-21 23-Jul-21

13.69 13.87 14.52

82.25 83.00 76.00

B-/S&P

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

14-Aug-14

8.75

250.00

14-Aug-21

12.23

11.76

84.88

86.63

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

DTM

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Discount Rate (%)

2.77

29-Jul-16

6.18

14.04

13.59

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

3,523.41 3,087.16 Description

Issuer

Issue Date

Yield @ Issue (%)

04-Nov-15

13.75

Commercial Papers Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP III 29-JUL-16

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

2.77

**TREASURY BILLS^ DTM 15 22 29 36 43 50 57 71 78

Money Market

FIXINGS Maturity 19-May-16 26-May-16 2-Jun-16 9-Jun-16 16-Jun-16 23-Jun-16 30-Jun-16 14-Jul-16 21-Jul-16

Bid Discount (%) 2.20 3.63 5.20 5.68 6.26 5.00 5.12 5.74 6.56

Offer Discount (%) 1.95 3.38 4.95 5.43 6.01 4.75 4.87 5.49 6.31

Bid Yield (%) 2.20 3.63 5.22 5.71 6.31 5.03 5.16 5.80 6.65

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 3.7917 8.6610 10.6737 12.3883

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

3.25

O/N

3.75

Tenor Call 1M 3M

REPO

Rate (%) 4.17 5.17 6.03

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

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

197.33 199.13 199.31 199.90 200.88 202.43 207.10

197.43 199.65 199.84 200.44 201.47 203.68 209.09

(₦’bn)

13.05 16-AUG-2016 15.10 27-APR-2017 9.85 27-JUL-2017 9.35 31-AUG-2017 10.70 30-MAY-2018 ^16.00 29-JUN-2019 7.00 23-OCT-2019 ^15.54 13-FEB-2020 ^16.39 27-JAN-2022 ^14.20 14-MAR-2024 ^12.50 22-JAN-2026 15.00 28-NOV-2028 12.49 22-MAY-2029 8.50 20-NOV-2029 ^10.00 23-JUL-2030 ^12.1493 18-JUL-2034 ^12.40 18-MAR-2036

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Rating/Agency

Equities drained as sell OUTSTANDING pressure dominate TOTAL VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION activities

Issuer

Agency Bonds

Sub-National Bonds

*BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO *DELTA *NIGER *EKITI *NIGER *ONDO *GOMBE LAGOS *OSUN LAGOS KOGI *EKITI *NASARAWA *BAUCHI *OYO *BENUE *PLATEAU KOGI *CROSS RIVER

Stories by Chris Ugwu

rading on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) returned red yesterday

after three days of upswing as the NSE All Share Index and market capitalisation declined 14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016 15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016 by 0.58 per cent each. 10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017 Despite the30-JUN-2017 local bourse regis13.75 BAYELSA 14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017 tering increased transaction vol14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018 14.00 NIGER value, II 4-OCT-2018profit takings umes and 14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018 14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 by investors ended the positive 15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019 sessions for02-OCT-2019 three days that was 15.50 GOMBE 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 spurred after index provider, 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 13.50 said LAGOS 27-NOV-2020 MSCI, it would not change 15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020 14.50 15.00 15.50 16.50 16.50 17.50 17.00 17.00

EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021 BAUCHI 9-DEC-2021 OYO 16-FEB-2022 BENUE 27-FEB-2022 PLATEAU 30-MAR-2022 KOGI II 31-MAR-2022 CROSS RIVER 27-MAY-2022

Vitafoam reports 93% drop in Q2 pretax profit TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Corporate Bonds

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

(%) 16-Aug-16 27-Apr-17 27-Jul-17 31-Aug-17 30-May-18 29-Jun-19 23-Oct-19 13-Feb-20 27-Jan-22 14-Mar-24 22-Jan-26 28-Nov-28 22-May-29 20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30 18-Jul-34 18-Mar-36

0.28 0.98 1.23 1.32 2.07 3.15 3.47 3.78 5.73 7.86 9.72 12.57 13.05 13.55 14.22 18.20 19.87

8.30 11.49 11.68 11.73 12.10 12.63 12.78 12.92 12.84 13.08 13.22 13.31 13.33 13.34 13.36 13.49 13.54

7.79 11.33 11.54 11.60 12.01 12.52 12.65 12.82 12.77 13.02 13.16 13.27 13.28 13.28 13.31 13.44 13.50

101.26 103.25 97.92 97.13 97.49 108.50 84.20 107.59 114.04 105.36 96.07 110.14 94.87 70.01 78.79 90.94 92.14

101.41 103.40 98.07 97.28 97.64 108.80 84.50 107.89 114.34 105.66 96.37 110.44 95.17 70.31 79.09 91.24 92.44

BUSINESS |Financial Market News

Stock market dips by N52bn Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

03-Apr-12

17.25

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

FMBN

581.39 480.13 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 576.93 605.31 719.99 266.02 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 1075.92 80.00

6362.457269

6,297.08

NEGATIVE

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

13.05 15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 15.54 16.39 14.20 12.50 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493 12.4000

6,407.46

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

Nil

16-Aug-13 27-Apr-12 27-Jul-07 31-Aug-07 30-May-08 29-Jun-12 23-Oct-09 13-Feb-15 27-Jan-12 14-Mar-14 22-Jan-16 28-Nov-08 22-May-09 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10 18-Jul-14 18-Mar-16

13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016

NAHCO

FSDH 25-OCT-2016 FSDH Plc has the14.25 financial year from N16.71 itafoam Nigeria 0.00/16.00 LCRM 08-DEC-2016 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 19-APR-2017 in 2014 to N17.18 billion posted a 93.11***LCRM per cent billion 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017 13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 drop in profitUBA before tax during the period under review. 18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017 *C & I LEASING for the second quarter ended Based on9-APR-2018 the results, the MPR+7.00 DANA *DANA MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 *TOWER March 31, 2016. company recommended a diviMPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 *TOWER ofUBAN245.700 The group in a UBA report re- dend 14.00 II 30-SEP-2018 million for its 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 *LA CASERA leased to the Nigerian Stock shareholders for the financial MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 *CHELLARAMS 16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019 *DANAa profit Exchange said it posted year ended September 30, 2015. 15.00 FCMB 6-NOV-2020 *FCMB before tax of N37.739NAHCO million in The Chairman 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 of the com15.50 TRANSCORP 4-DEC-2020 *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC 2015 as against N547.537 million pany , Dr. Bamidele Makanjuo14.25 FCMB I 20-NOV-2021 *FCMB 16.45 UBA I 30-DEC-2021 UBA year, acreported the previous la, addressing shareholders at 16.48 FIDELITY 13-MAY-2022 FIDELITY counting for a drop of 93.11 per the16.00 company’s annual general TRANSCORP 26-OCT-2022 *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC 182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IA 30-SEP-2024 STANBIC IBTC cent. meeting, said the security situa13.25 STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024 STANBIC IBTC NMRC 29-JUL-2030 further in the Loss after tax *NMRC stood at tion14.90 deteriorated TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE N49.607 million from a profit of year as emboldened insurgents TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION N341.121 million in 2015 while stepped up their campaign of Sukuk revenue declined by 13.66 per terror and destruction. 14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020 BBB-/Agusto *OSUN “As a consequence, commercent from N9.321 billion in 2015 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE to N8.047 billion during the six cial activities remained virTOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION months ended March 2016. tually paralysed in the North Supranational Bond Vitafoam ended IFC the finan- Central North-East geopo10.20 IFC and 11-FEB-2018 AAA/S&P 11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021 Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P zones where thousands, cial year 2015 with*AfDB 42.82 per litical TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE cent drop in net earnings as including several Vitafoam disTOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION key extracts of the unaudited tributors, have been displaced Description reportRating/Agency and accounts of Issuer the and left adrift. Without excepFGN Eurobondsfor the year ended company tion, all well-meaning Nigeri28, 2021 reliBB-/Fitch; B+/S&P September 30, 2015 showed a ans irrespective 6.75 of JAN tribe, BB-/Fitch; FGN 5.13 JUL 12, 2018must drop gion or party affiliations BB-/S&P in growth in almost key BB-/Fitch; performance indices, damping rally behind the government to 6.38 JUL 12, 2023 BB-/S&P strong performance outlook overcome the existential threat TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL CAPITALISATION of theMARKET leading furniture goods posed by this insurrection,” he companies in the country. said. Corporate Eurobonds 7.50 MAY 19, 2016 the B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC tax I The group’s profit after Makanjuola noted that 7.25 JUL 25, 2017 B+/S&P ACCESS BANK PLC austerity measures recently declined by 42.82 per cent to 6.88 MAY 09, 2018 B/Fitch; B/S&P FIDELITY BANK PLC NOV 08, 2018 B+/Fitch; B+/S&P million as GTBANK PLC initiated by the6.00 government N249.051 against 6.25 APR 22, 2019 B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P ZENITH BANK PLC N435.595 2015 while (targeted mostly at 8.75 the May 21,middle2019 B/Fitch; B/S&P million in DIAMOND BANK PLC 8.25 AUG 07, 2020 B-/Fitch; B/S&P FIRST BANK PLC profit before tax also dropped to high-income class) ostensi9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021 B-/Fitch; B/S&P ACCESS BANK PLC II 8.00/2Ytop USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021 B-/Fitch; B/S&Pper cent from FIRST BANK LTD by 24.74 N709.722 bly imply that end luxury 8.75 AUG 14, 2021 B-/S&P ECOBANK NIG. LTD million in 2014 to N534.129 milproducts from Vitafoam’s staTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE lion 2015.CAPITALISATION ble may receive lower patronTOTALin MARKET It, however, reported a 2.8 per age from consumers of such Description Rating/Agency Issuer cent growth in revenue during products.

the status of Nigerian securities on its frontier index. Consequently , the All-Share 30-Jun-11 14.00 30-Jun-09 15.50 Index dipped 150.0810.00 basis 19-Apr-10 points or 0.58 per cent to close 30-Jun-10 13.75 31-Dec-10 14.00 at 25,715.42 index points as 30-Sep-11 14.00 04-Oct-11 14.00 against 25,865.50 recorded the 09-Dec-11 14.50 14.00marprevious 12-Dec-13 day while the 14-Feb-12 15.50 ket capitalisation of equities 02-Oct-12 15.50 22-Nov-12 14.50 depreciated by N52 billion or 12-Dec-12 14.75 27-Nov-13 13.50 tril0.58 per cent from N8.897 31-Dec-13 15.00 31-Dec-13 lion the previous day to14.50 N8.845 06-Jan-14 15.00 trillion. 09-Dec-14 15.50 17-Feb-15 16.50 Meanwhile, a turnover 27-Feb-15 16.50 17.50 of 330.5630-Mar-15 billion shares ex01-Apr-15 17.00 changed 27-May-15 in 4,053 deals 17.00 was recorded in the day’s trading. The Premium sub-sector was the most active during 29-Sep-11 13.00 the 25-Oct-13 09-Dec-11 20-Apr-12 06-Jul-12 30-Sep-10 30-Nov-12 09-Apr-11 09-Sep-11 09-Sep-11 30-Sep-11 18-Oct-13 17-Feb-12 01-Apr-14 06-Nov-15 14-Nov-13 04-Dec-15 20-Nov-14 30-Dec-14 13-May-15 26-Oct-15 30-Sep-14 30-Sep-14 29-Jul-15

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Modelled Price

1.20

03-Apr-17

0.49

2.94

12.48

102.20

day’s trading showed that Tiger Branded Goods Plc topped the gainers’ table with 10 per 4.46 11.03 100.38 3.48 10.05 at N3.36 per 100.76 share cent to close 1.00 12.40 97.88 while Eterna Oil Plc98.57 followed 5.71 16.01 2.39 14.28 99.54 with 9.8812.80 per cent to101.50 close at 1.00 1.00 12.81 101.51 N2.78 per15.61 share. Airline Ser3.82 98.61 3.56 vices Plc 15.35 trailed with98.31 a gain of 3.82 15.70 99.65 9.52 per cent to close102.30 at N1.61 2.02 14.11 2.01 14.81 99.14 per share. 1.00 13.07 102.83 1.30 On the 14.19 97.73Plc led flip side, ETI 3.76 16.64 94.75 2.53 14.93chart with 99.05a drop the losers’ 1.00 13.42 103.31 of 5.16 per close at 1.52 14.21 cent to103.09 4.01 16.80 99.18 N14.70 per share. PZ Cussons 1.00 13.80 106.97 2.52 15.35 with a loss 105.54of five Plc followed 1.79 14.66 109.02 per cent 15.86 to close at N21.30 per 3.04 102.85 share while Fidson Healthcare Plc dropped by 4.91 per cent to close at N2.13 per share. 1.00 10.01 101.10

1.20 day (measured by turnover 1.23 volume); with 139.8 million shares exchanged by investors 1.30 30-Jun-16 0.16 2.05 0.16 in57.00 673 deals.30-Jun-16 19-Apr-17 0.96 Volume in the sub-sector 16.45 30-Jun-17 0.68 25.00 31-Dec-17 1.66 was driven by the 23.44 largely30-Sep-18 1.47 ac4.22 04-Oct-18 1.49 tivities in the shares of FBNH 10.98 09-Dec-18 1.45 8.14and Zenith 12-Dec-18 1.45 Plc Bank Plc. 21.68 14-Feb-19 1.64 The banking sub-sector, 12.55 02-Oct-19 2.06 80.00 22-Nov-19 3.55 boosted by 12-Dec-19 activities in the 21.65 2.02 87.50 27-Nov-20 4.56 shares of UBA Plc and Fidel5.00 31-Dec-20 4.66 4.03Bank Plc, 31-Dec-20 ity followed2.69with 4.04 06-Jan-21 2.72 a 14.37 turnover 09-Dec-21 of 120.57 million 3.97 4.39 16-Feb-22 3.50 shares in 1,341 deals. 3.53 4.53 27-Feb-22 27.10 30-Mar-22 4.03 The number of gainers at 3.00 31-Mar-22 6.46 the trading session 7.68 close of27-May-22 3.62 446.1226 while decliners closed was 445.40 at 19. Further 29-Sep-16 analysis of0.40 the 15.00

14.25 0.00/16.00 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50 13.00 18.00 16.00 18.00 16.00 14.00 15.75 18.00 16.00 15.00 15.25 15.50 14.25 16.45 16.48 16.00 16.29 13.25 14.90

5.53 112.22 116.70 66.49 20.00 0.46 3.60 1.82 0.50 35.00 1.50 0.27 4.50 23.19 2.05 9.76 26.00 30.50 30.00 10.00 0.10 15.44 7.90

25-Oct-16 08-Dec-16 19-Apr-17 06-Jul-17 30-Sep-17 30-Nov-17 09-Apr-18 09-Sep-18 09-Sep-18 30-Sep-18 18-Oct-18 17-Feb-19 01-Apr-19 06-Nov-20 14-Nov-20 04-Dec-20 20-Nov-21 30-Dec-21 13-May-22 26-Oct-22 30-Sep-24 30-Sep-24 29-Jul-30

0.48 0.60 0.96 1.17 1.41 0.86 1.18 1.35 1.35 2.41 1.46 1.54 1.66 2.26 4.53 3.03 5.55 5.66 6.02 4.19 8.41 8.41 9.54

1.34 1.00 5.49 5.25 1.88 1.88 3.15 6.35 1.00 1.17 4.42 6.11 3.28 4.47 1.00 3.55 2.51 1.00 1.00 2.77 1.00 1.00 1.00

10.79 10.97 16.89 16.90 13.65 12.89 14.81 18.09 12.74 13.43 16.21 17.94 15.17 16.66 13.89 16.12 15.36 13.85 13.87 15.67 14.12 14.12 14.21

6.18

14.04

101.55 102.79 99.64 99.51 99.16 104.76 101.19 99.79 103.77 101.10 99.39 100.01 101.10 97.17 104.45 98.56 95.93 109.89 110.41 100.93 110.44 95.76 103.40

Custodian and Allied reports 26% growth in gross earnings

#{r}

ustodian and Allied The group posted 12.43 per per cent. Plc, a wholly owned cent growth in pre-tax profit The group’s profit after Nigerian investment for the full year ended De- tax stood at N3.774 billion holding company quoted cember 31, 2015. during the period under reon the Nigerian Stock ExIts profit before tax rose view in contrast to N3.159 change (NSE) with invest- 538.53 to N5.731 billion as against billion reported during the 545.60 ments in general and life N5.097 billion, amounting to comparable period of 2014, insurance, pension fund a growth of 12.43 per cent. representing an increase of 10-Oct-13 14.75 9.40 10-Oct-20 2.55 15.70 98.10 cent. administration, trusteeship The group’s profit after 3.3719.46 per 9.40 tax stood at N4.200 billion and property holding busi- 9.22 Its gross revenue grew nesses, has posted a 26.48 per during the period under re- to N20.366 billion in 2015 N18.48798.36 billion, cent growth revenue 12.00 view in contrast to 1.77 N4.039 1.00as against 11-Feb-13 in gross 10.20 11-Feb-18 11.22 10-Jul-14 11.25 01-Feb-21 2.99 11.91 for the first quarter ended 12.95 billion reported during the 1.00amounting to 10.16 98.38 per cent 24.95 March 31, 2016. comparable period of 2014, increase. 24.54 In a filing with the Nigerepresenting an increase of The underwriting firm had Outstanding Value Bid Yield (%) Offer Yield (%) Bid Price Offer Price Date Coupon (%) Maturity Date 3.98 per cent. rian Issue Stock Exchange, the ($’mm) announced an unaudited profPrices & Yields group’s gross earnings rose Its gross revenue grew it before tax of N2.751 billion 07-Oct-11 28-Jan-21 7.65 2015 7.42 96.45 after tax of 97.37N2.276 to N29.793 billion in and profit to N8.209 billion as6.75against 500.00 5.13 12-Jul-18 5.68 5.28 98.86 99.67period as against N25.198 billion, N6.49012-Jul-13 billion, accounting for 500.00 billion for the half year a growth of 26.48 per amounting to 18.23 per ended June 30, 2014.92.76 12-Jul-13 6.38 cent. 500.00 12-Jul-23 7.88 cent 7.70 91.85 The group’s profit after 1,500.00 increase. The result represents an tax stood at N1.538 billion 1,435.83The insurance firm posted increase of over 100 per cent during the period under re- 30 per cent growth in pre-tax over the N1.137 billion profit 7.50 N1.488 373.41 27.42 Sep- -6.09 100.38 after tax99.42 recorded in the corview 19-May-11 in contrast to profit for19-May-16 the Q3 ended 25-Jul-12 7.25 350.00 25-Jul-17 8.33 7.14 98.76 100.11 responding period of billion reported during the 300.00 tember 30, 2015. 09-May-13 6.88 02-May-18 21.04 19.83 77.81 79.422013. 08-Nov-13 08-Nov-18 8.13 dem8.13 95.25 95.25 comparable period6.00of 2015, 400.00 The results, which Similarly, shareholders’ 22-Apr-14 6.25 500.00 22-Apr-19 9.22 9.22 92.46 92.46 representing an increase of 200.00 onstrated21-May-19 Custodian’s funds grew by 9.34 82.24 per cent 21-May-14 8.75 17.35resil- 16.39 80.31 07-Aug-13 8.25 300.00 07-Aug-20 13.69 13.69 82.25 82.25 3.36 per cent. ience in a challenging operto N20.88 billion from N19.09 24-Jun-14 9.25 400.00 24-Jun-21 13.87 13.87 83.00 83.00 23-Jul-14 8.00 before 450.00 23-Jul-21 14.52 14.52 Custodian’s profit ating environment, showed billion 76.00 as at June 76.00 30, 2013, 14-Aug-14 8.75 250.00 14-Aug-21 84.88 assets 86.63 stood at tax dropped marginally to 3,523.41 that the group’s profit12.23 before 11.76while total N1.847 billion as against 3,087.16 tax rose to N4.971 billion N48.2 billion compared with against N3.821 billion, Risk N1.867 billion, amounting Outstanding to as Value N45.6 billion reported as at Valuation Yield DTM Issue Date Yield @ Issue (%) Maturity Date (₦’bn) a drop of 1.07 per cent. amounting to a growth of 30Premium June 30,(%) 2013. Discount Rate (%) (%) #

Commercial Papers Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP III 29-JUL-16

04-Nov-15

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

13.75

2.77

29-Jul-16

2.77

13.59

4-May-16

The DQL contains data relating to, amongst other things, market and model prices, rates of foreign exchange products, fixed income securities and instruments in the financial market (the “Information”). The Information does not constitute professional, financial or Money Market **TREASURY BILLS^ FIXINGS Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) investment advice. We attempt to ensure the Information is accurate; however, the Information is provided “AS IS” and on an Bid “ASYield AVAILABLE” basis and may not be accurate or up to date. We do not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, completeness, performance DTM Maturity Bid Discount (%) Offer Discount (%) (%) Tenor Rate (%) or fitness for a particular purpose of any of19-May-16 the Information, neither do we accept action taken on the 2.20 basis of the Information. NIBOR 15 2.20 liability for the results of any 1.95 OBB 3.25 Tenor Bid ($/N) Offer ($/N) 22 29 36 43 50 57 71 Rating/Agency 78 85 92 99 106 120 127 141 155 162 169 176 183 NA 197 211 218 225 246 260 274 288 302 316 323 337 351

26-May-16 2-Jun-16 9-Jun-16 16-Jun-16 23-Jun-16 30-Jun-16 14-Jul-16 Issuer 21-Jul-16 28-Jul-16 4-Aug-16 11-Aug-16 18-Aug-16 1-Sep-16 8-Sep-16 22-Sep-16 6-Oct-16 13-Oct-16 20-Oct-16 27-Oct-16 3-Nov-16 NA 17-Nov-16 1-Dec-16 8-Dec-16 15-Dec-16 5-Jan-17 19-Jan-17 2-Feb-17 16-Feb-17 2-Mar-17 16-Mar-17 23-Mar-17 6-Apr-17 20-Apr-17

FGN Bonds

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

3.63 5.20 5.68 6.26 5.00 5.12 5.74 Description 6.56 7.17 13.05 16-AUG-2016 7.86 15.10 27-APR-2017 7.86 7.93 9.85 27-JUL-2017 8.61 9.35 31-AUG-2017 8.68 8.80 10.70 30-MAY-2018 8.72 ^16.00 29-JUN-20199.00 7.00 23-OCT-2019 8.68 ^15.54 13-FEB-20208.45 9.15 ^16.39 27-JAN-20229.45 ^14.20 14-MAR-20249.10 9.23 ^12.50 22-JAN-20269.51 15.00 28-NOV-2028 9.35 12.49 22-MAY-2029 9.72 10.25 8.50 20-NOV-2029 10.24 ^10.00 23-JUL-203010.35 ^12.1493 18-JUL-2034 10.11 10.28 ^12.40 18-MAR-2036 10.45 10.64

3.38 4.95 5.43 6.01 4.75 4.87 5.49Date Issue 6.31 6.92 7.61 16-Aug-13 7.61 27-Apr-12 7.68 27-Jul-07 8.36 8.43 31-Aug-07 8.55 30-May-08 8.47 29-Jun-12 8.75 8.43 23-Oct-09 8.20 13-Feb-15 8.90 27-Jan-12 9.20 8.85 14-Mar-14 8.98 22-Jan-16 9.26 28-Nov-08 9.10 9.47 22-May-09 10.00 20-Nov-09 9.99 23-Jul-10 10.10 18-Jul-14 9.86 10.03 18-Mar-16 10.20 10.39

3.63 5.22 5.71 6.31 5.03 5.16 5.80 (%) Coupon 6.65 7.29 8.02 13.05 8.03 15.10 8.11 9.85 8.86 8.95 9.35 9.11 10.70 9.06 16.00 9.38 9.05 7.00 8.81 15.54 9.58 16.39 9.96 9.60 14.20 9.77 12.50 10.10 15.00 9.98 10.44 12.49 11.11 8.50 11.13 10.00 11.31 12.1493 11.07 11.31 12.4000 11.56 11.85

Bonds

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION *for the Amortising bonds, the average life is calculated and not the TTM Description

Issuer

Issue Date

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Modified Duration Buckets

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Sub-National Bonds BBB+/Agusto A/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto A-/Agusto A/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto; A-/GCR A/Agusto‡ ; A-/GCR† A-/Agusto A-/Agusto; A-/GCR BBB+/Agusto; A-/GCR

O/N Tenor Call

Outstanding Value Maturity Date (₦’bn) NITTY Tenor 581.39 1M 480.13 2M 20.00 3M 6M 100.00 9M 300.00 12M

Rate (%) 16-Aug-16 5.1505 27-Apr-17 5.2780 27-Jul-17 7.5126 9.3544 31-Aug-17 10.3063 30-May-18 11.6682

351.30 29-Jun-19 233.90 23-Oct-19 576.93 NIFEX 13-Feb-20 605.31 27-Jan-22 Current Price ($/N) BID($/N) 719.99 199.0000 14-Mar-24 OFFER ($/N) 199.1000 266.02 22-Jan-26 75.00 28-Nov-28 150.00 22-May-29 200.00 20-Nov-29 591.57 23-Jul-30 1075.92 18-Jul-34 80.00 18-Mar-36

3.75

REPO

1M (Yrs) TTM 3M 6M

Rate (%) 4.17

Bid5.17 Yield (%) 6.03 6.83

*BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO *DELTA *NIGER *EKITI *NIGER *ONDO *GOMBE

<3 3<5 >5 Market

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

0.28 8.30 7.79 0.98 11.49 11.33 NOTE: 1.23 11.68 11.54 :Benchmarks * :Amortising 1.32Bond 11.73 11.60 µ :Convertible Bond 2.07 12.10 12.01 AMCON: Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria 3.15 12.63 12.52 FGN: Federal Government of Nigeria FMBN: Federal of Nigeria 3.47Mortgage Bank 12.78 12.65 IFC: International Finance Corporation 3.78 12.92 12.82 LCRM: Local Contractors Receivables Management 5.73 Aviation Handling 12.84 Company 12.77 NAHCO: Nigerian O/N: Overnight 7.86 13.08 13.02 UPDC: UAC Property Development Company 9.72 13.22 13.16 WAPCO:West Africa Portland Cement Company 12.57 13.31 13.27 13.05 13.33 13.28 13.55 13.34 13.28 14.22 13.36 13.31 18.20 13.49 13.44 19.87 13.54 13.50

6,407.46

197.33 199.13 199.31 199.90 200.88 202.43 Bid Price 207.10 215.68

197.43 199.65

Price199.84

200.44 201.47 203.68 Offer Price 209.09 221.14

101.26 101.41 103.25 103.40 97.92 98.07 NA :Not Applicable ^ : Market97.13 Prices 97.28 # : Floating Rate Bond 97.49 97.64 ***: Deferred coupon bonds 108.50 108.80 DTM: Days-To-Maturity TTM: Term-To-Maturity 84.20 84.50 ‡ : Bond rating under review 107.59 107.89 †: Bond rating expired 114.34 N/A :Not 114.04 Available {r} :Issuer in receivership 105.36 105.66 NGC: Nigeria-German Company 96.07 96.37 UBA: United Bank for Africa 110.14 110.44 94.87 95.17 70.01 70.31 78.79 79.09 90.94 91.24 92.14 92.44

6362.457269

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

FMDQ FGN BOND INDEX

Agency Bonds Nil

Rate (%) 3.7917 8.6610 10.6737 12.3883

6,297.08

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

Rating/Agency

Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Porfolio Market Value (₦’bn)

1,001.84 1,448.90 1,444.56 3,895.31

03-Apr-12

17.25

Weighting by Mkt Value

1.20

03-Apr-17

Weighting by Outstanding Volume

928.23 1,325.30 1,667.49 3,921.02

23.67 33.80 42.53 100.00 30-Jun-11

25.72 37.20 37.08 100.00 14.00

1.23 0.24 0.34 0.43 1.00 1.30

12.81 29.44 57.75 100.00 30-Jun-16

12.82 12.98 13.45 13.23 0.16

30-Jun-09 19-Apr-10 30-Jun-10 31-Dec-10 30-Sep-11 04-Oct-11 09-Dec-11 12-Dec-13 14-Feb-12 02-Oct-12

15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.50 14.00 15.50 15.50

2.05 57.00 16.45 25.00 23.44 4.22 10.98 8.14 21.68 12.55

30-Jun-16 19-Apr-17 30-Jun-17 31-Dec-17 30-Sep-18 04-Oct-18 09-Dec-18 12-Dec-18 14-Feb-19 02-Oct-19

0.16 0.96 0.68 1.66 1.47 1.49 1.45 1.45 1.64 2.06

Bucket Weighting

1.20

% Exposure_ Mod_Duration

0.49

Total Outstanding Volume (₦’bn)

Implied Yield

Risk Premium (%) 2.94

Implied Portfolio Price

135.1543 149.4454 112.1024 130.1814 4.46

3.48 1.00 5.71 2.39 1.00 1.00 3.82 3.56 3.82 2.02

Valuation Yield (%) 12.48 INDEX

1,229.59 1,295.60 1,351.51 1,239.67 11.03

10.05 12.40 16.01 14.28 12.80 12.81 15.61 15.35 15.70 14.11

Modelled Price

102.20

YTD Return (%)

10.9891 27.9516 34.2093 17.4835 100.38

100.76 97.88 98.57 99.54 101.50 101.51 98.61 98.31 99.65 102.30

News|SOUTH-EAST

Kidnapping started in Abia – Akpabio

enate Minority Leader and former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Godswill Akpabio, yesterday, revealed that one of the most anti-human crimes, kidnapping in return for money started in Abia State before the scourge assumed the alarming proportion it had presently attained in the country. He stated this while

contributing to the debate on Joint Committee Report on Police Affairs, National Security and Intelligence on the floor of the senate. According to the former governor, “kidnapping of expatriates in the Niger Delta in those days were carried out purposely by abductors to protest harm done to the environment by multinational oil companies

and government’s lack of political will to address the trend”, but said the purpose became misplaced as the trend began to spread to other places. “In Abia state then they will build a bungalow with gallows underneath, and when someone was kidnapped, they will keep the victim there until ransom was paid even with Police guarding the compound,”Akpabio em-

phasised. While calling for capital punishments for the perpetrators, he lamented that the current three year maximum imprisonment was so inadequate. “Currently, the maximum penalty is three years imprisonment for kidnappers, and this cannot deter them. I want to call for stringent penalty to punish them,” Akpabio maintained.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Commissioner thumbs down child maternal programme Charles Onyekwere ENUGU

nugu State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Sam Ngwu, has said that the Free Maternal and Child Healthcare (FMCH) Programme initiated in 2007 is fraught with ambiguities that would not make the initiative achieve its desired objective. The Commissioner stated this yesterday at a public hearing organised by the Enugu State Committee on Health on how

best to resuscitate the programme and make it effective. According to him, when he assumed office as health commissioner he discovered that the programme was ambiguous and needed to be streamlined. Ngwu pointed out that there so much confusion in the programme that indigene of other states in the South- East and even beyond came to the state to avail themselves of the free maternal health services, and that this brought decay to the system.

Grazing bill’ll plunge Nigeria into genocide, says group he international society for civil Liberties and the rule of law has raised the alarm over desperate plans by some National Assembly members from the South East geopolitical zone to divert the attention of Nigerians over the proposed National Grazing Reserve Bill. In a statement jointly signed by the chairman Board of directors, Mr.

Emeka Umeagbalasi and Head Civil Liberties and Rule of Law Programme, Obiajulu Joy Igboeli, the group said: “Our attention has, again, been drawn to public statements credited to some serving Senators in Nigeria to the effect that the National Grazing Reserve Bill is not before the Upper Chamber or Senate of the National Assembly. The latest of such statements was credited to the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu during his recent outing in Enugu.”

merchants, have quickly latched on the unfortunate recurring altercation nationwide between herdsmen pastoralists and farmers, for the ignoble objective to further promote hate, division and widen the fault lines.” The cause expressed satisfaction with the “candour speech” of the Forum, as eloquently delivered by their chairman, Owelle Rochas Okorocha. The statement quoted Governor Okorocha as saying, “We are here because of the ugly incident that took place in Enugu State...the nation is one, irrespective of political affiliation, Governor Ifeanyi

Ugwuanyi is in PDP, we are in APC; but in death, there is no party. We have come to sympathize with you on this moment of grief and great loss.” He added: “We are also enthused with the APC Governors Forum’s solemn pledge to not only join hands with the Federal Government to make sure that the perpetrators and their master minds are fished out, but pledged that this is the last of such heinous incident. “Their visit is noble and worth emulating instead of arm-chair critics who issue vile statements which divide, instead of unifying our dear fatherland.”

Okegwo Enechukwu L-R: Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi; Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Uchenna Orji and Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, Mrs. Augusta Chika Ude, at a special stakeholders summit on Rice Revolution in Abakaliki … yesterday

ONITSHA

Recover arms from herdsmen, Herdsmen killings: S’East APC caucus commend govs’ intervention Umahi tells security agents Uchenna Inya

ABAKALIKI

bonyi State Governor, Chief Dave Umahi yesterday charged police to periodically search herdsmen in order to recover arms in their possessions. Speaking at a security meeting with the service chiefs in the state, the LG chairmen, coordinators of development centres, traditional rulers and other stakeholders, in Abakaliki, Umahi backed calls for the disarming of the herdsmen by the security agents. He charged traditional rulers to hold extensive meetings with their communities and warned them against taking laws into their hands as the state government would not hesitate to bring the full weight of the law to bear on anybody who attack any herdsman in the state. He reiterated his administration’s resolve to ensure harmonious relationship between the herdsmen and the host communities. Meanwhile, Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Dave Umahi, yesterday

ordered the immediate eviction of herdsmen from Ebonyi State University (EBSU) premises within the next seven days. He said there is no reason why cattle should stay with students in the university. Gover nor Umahi spoke at the Akanu Ibiam International Conference Centre, Abakaliki, at the agricultural summit organized by the state government to boost rice production. He directed the Secretary to the State Government and the Vice-Chancellor of the University to liaise with the state Commissioner of Police, Peace Ibekwe Abdallah, to quietly and peacefully evict the herdsmen, who are settled in the premises of the university. He, however, opposed the calls for a reprisal attack on the herdsmen in the South East over the brutal killing of over 30 people in Ukpabi Nimbo, Uzouwani Local Government in Enugu State by herdsmen. He insisted that though he was the first South East governor to publicly condemn the dastardly act, the

Hausa-Fulani community in the state has a long history of peaceful settlement and have not been implicated in any criminal activity. He added that those nomadic herdsmen should be allowed to pass to and fro in the state provided they do so peacefully without causing harm to the people or destruction to their crops. Umahi insisted that waging a war against the herdsmen would have grave implications, for they are nomads whose mainstay is herding cattle.

he South East Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday commended the visit to Enugu by the All Progressives Congress Governors Forum. The governors were in Enugu on Tuesday to condole with the government and people of the state over the Ukpabi Nimbo tragedy. A press release signed by the spokesman of the caucus and made available to New Telegraph in Enugu, stated that the governors’ visit was “the soothing balm needed most urgently at this tempestuous moment of grief, despair and despondency. “More so, when ethnic

Group to Nwosu: Your generation, PDP has failed Ndigbo

group, Buhari SouthEast Youth Movement (BUSEYM) has condemned the statement by a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Minister of Health, Prof. ABC Nwosu, that President Muhammadu Buhari is against the SouthEast region and that the people of the zone should not expect anything from his government, as not representing the view of the people of the area. The group in a press release made available to newsmen in Awka, the Anambra state capital and signed by

its Director-General, Engr. Nwabueze Onwuneme, and National Publicity Secretary, comrade Igwe Samuel Obinna, said that even though the erudite Professor was entitled to his own opinion, it should not be brought to bear on the people of the zone. The group stated that ordinarily they would not have joined issues with the Professor but had to due to the incisive nature of his claim. The group stated that it was actually his generation and the PDP - that is against the Igbos, and called upon

the youths and women of the zone to disregard his statement. It also called on Nwosu to show Ndi Igbo one thing the PDP did for Igbos in their 16 years in power other than lining the pockets of some few individuals leading to total dearth of both physical infrastructure, commerce, standard of living of the people and total impoverishment of the zone and it’s people most especially the youths and women. which President Buhari is not ready and will never do. Reacting to a statement

in the same interview, where the erudite Professor said that the ‘APC is not yet acting like the party in power’, the group said President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC believe so much in the rule of law, independence of other arms of government, separation of powers and strengthening of national institutions and would never interfere in their workings. It stated that with President Buhari on the saddle inglorious era has gone and if that has made the APC not acting as if they are in power so be it.

News|south-SOUTH

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Rivers elections petitions’ tribunal relocates to Abuja

PDP dispels rumours of Anenih’s death

Cajetan Mmuta

he Rivers State Election Petitions’ Tribunal on re-run elections in the state sitting in Port Harcourt has relocated to the High Court in Apo, Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. This is contained in a statement issued in Port Harcourt yesterday by Mr. Sirajo Gusau, the secretary to the tribunal. “I am directed to inform the general public and all lawyers concerned that the election tribunal has been relocated to the High Court Apo, Abuja, FCT with immediate effect.”

Gusau, however, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in a telephone interview that he was not in a position to disclose what informed the relocation. NAN recalls that the elections petition tribunal that handled petitions that arose from the 2015 general elections was also relocated to the FCT. Sources said the relocation may have been informed by insecurity. Gusau said the secretariat had received 10 petitions from politicians, but did not give details.

Okowa calls for efficient judiciary

elta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, yesterday called for professionalism, impartiality, transparency and efficiency in the state’s judiciary. He made the call while inaugurating the state Justice Sector Reform Committee at a three-day retreat by the Ministry of Justice in Asaba. The governor said the inauguration was an important milestone in expanding the frontiers of the justice sector. Okowa charged the team to entrench the

rule of law and respect for fundamental human rights. He said justice was the very core of human existence, adding that without it, life would become short, nasty and brutish. He said his administration had at inception taken steps to enhance justice administration. According to him, developing a comprehensive justice sector reforms had become imperative to building a sector that was professional, impartial, efficient and transparent.

Police vow to tackle crime in Cross River

he Cross River State police command yesterday said it was committed to fighting kidnapping, militancy and other heinous crimes in the state. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Henry Fadairo, told NAN in Calabar that measures had been put in place to reduce crime in the state to the barest minimum. Fadairo said men of the command had been placed on alert to ensure

a crime-free state. He said the rate of crime in the state had dropped and attributed the development to beef up of security and quick response to distress calls by police patrol teams. “As a command, we have been able to reduce the rate of criminal activities in the state. “We have set up a quick emergency response team to deal with cases of armed robbery, kidnapping, militancy and other crimes.

Navy pledges more training to combat insecurity Emmanuel Masha Port Harcourt

he Nigerian Navy has pledged mandatory training for its personnel in a bid to check insecurity in the country’s waterways and ensure the overall safeguard of its territorial integrity. The Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command, Rear Admiral Joseph Okojie, who stated this in Onne, Rivers State during a familiarisation tour of the Nigerian Navy Basic Training School, Onne,

Rivers State, said such training would equip personnel to fight oil theft and piracy. Okojie noted that the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, had sought a more effective navy and as such ordered the training and re-training of both officers and ratings. He said officers would be trained within and outside the country, just as he said that the navy would provide support to other security operatives on land, apart from operating on the sea.

BENIN

he leadership of the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday dispelled the rumour making the rounds that the immediate past Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the party, Chief Tony Anenih, was death.

The state Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Chris Nehikhare, said in a statement in Benin, the state capital that Chief Anenih is alive, hale and hearty. Nehikhare said: “Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) hereby dispels the rumoured death of our National Leader, Chief Tony Anenih. We wish to inform the general public, especially, our

N2.18bn

The total revenue of 2015 Government Quarterly Target from Stamp Duty for the 2015 Q3. Source: Firs.gov.ng

teeming supporters in Nigeria and Edo State in particular that Chief Anenih is alive, hale and hearty and will return to Nigeria on Sunday after a brief visit to the United Kingdom.” He urged PDP supporters, friends and associates to disregard what he called media propaganda currently going on. Anenih was quoted as saying in reply to a telephone call that he is

The total number of set piece goals scored by Mexico at Brazil 2014 World Cup. Source: Fifa.com

alive and enjoying himself while in the United Kingdom. He said God will punish all those peddling rumours about his death and that they would definitely die before him. According to him, “If I am dead, will I be talking to you? I am alive and enjoying myself. I will not issue any press release. They will die before me, God will punish them. I will be back on Sunday.”

N407.79m

The total value of non-crude oil export to South Africa in 2014 fourth quarter. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON), Mr. Ahmed Kuru; Cross River State Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade and Managing Director, Ponet Engineering, Mr. Wolfgang Hans, during the maiden ride aboard Calabar Monorail in Calabar

UNICAL lecturers protest abduction of colleagues’ relations Clement James Calabar

ecturers from the University of Calabar (UNICAL) under the auspices of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have embarked on an indefinite strike following the abduction of three people related to some lecturers on Tuesday. A number of gunmen had on Tuesday stormed a section of the institu-

tion’s staff quarters and abducted the son of the university’s former Deputy Registrar (Students’ Affairs), one Aniema and his mother-in-law as well as the daughter of another lecturer in the Faculty of Medical Sciences, Dr. Wilfred Ndifon. UNICAL ASUU Chairman, Dr. Tony Eyang, however, denied that any of its members was kidnapped as reported by some dailies, saying only relations of two lecturers

were abducted. According to Eyang, members of the union had resolved to embark on a solidarity strike to draw the attention of government to the spate of insecurity within the university’s community. Eyang, who described the action of the abductors as despicable, called on the authorities concerned to beef up security at strategic locations within the quarters, insisting that the strike

would be indefinite, pending further directives from the national office of ASUU. “Government attention, both at the state and the federal levels as well as the university authority needs to be drawn to ensure that there is sufficient armed security presence in strategic places in the university in order to forestall the future kidnapping of our colleagues and their relations,” he said.

Group berates Edo deputy gov for disrespecting Benin tradition Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

socio-cultural group, the League of Young Edo Professionals (LEYEP), yesterday berated the state Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Odubu for pursuing a personal agenda by going about with his

governorship campaign across the state without recourse to the position of the Benin Traditional Council on the demise of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Erediauwa. It noted that both indigenes and non-indigenes of Edo State were mourning the departed monarch, yet the sec-

ond citizen of the state ‘has been busy with his gubernatorial project, which he considers most important than the plight of the people of the state.’ Secretary-General of the group, Dr. Osatohamwen Nosakhare, said in a statement in Benin that while all other aspirants in the APC, including

Chris Ogiemwonyi, Godwin Obaseki, Oserheimen Osunbor, Kenneth Imansuagbon, Victor Atamah, Lady Tina Agbarha, among others, had since suspended their campaigns as a mark of respect for the late royal father, only Odubu, a Benin son, had continued to go about campaigning around the state.

NEWS | north

thursday, may 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

to explore JUTH workers protest lack Katsina alternatives to oil of basic facilities in hospital K W orkers of the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) yesterday took to the streets, protesting what they called the ‘complete lack of basic facilities in the hospital.’ The workers, under the auspices of the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU), moved through the major streets of the city, chanting solidarity songs and urged the Federal Government to sack the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the hospital, Prof. Edward Banwat. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workers, who have been on strike for more than two months, took to the streets saying the management could not address their grievances. An official of the union, Mr. Mustapha Kabir, who spoke with NAN, alleged that the hospital lacked consumables, drugs and beds, while machines required for basic operation had all broken down. He said: “We have being on strike since March 7, but none of our demands has been resolved; this is why we decided to come

FRSC: 65 killed in Katsina auto crashes in three months

he Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said no fewer than 65 people died in road traffic accidents in Katsina State between January and March this year. The FRSC Sector Commander in the state, Alhaji Abdu Bagadawa disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday in Katsina. Bagadawa also said 280 persons sustained varying degree of injuries in 400 road accidents during the period under review. He said some of the accidents were caused by speed limit violation, route violation, reckless driving and dangerous overtaking. He said the command was, therefore, intensifying patrols to reduce auto crashes in the state. The sector commander advised parents to desist from carrying their under-aged children in front seats of their vehicles as doing so could expose them to danger during a crash. He also called on motorists to desist from buying second hand tyres, which could burst at any time and cause accident.

out so that people will know why we have been staying at home,” Kabir said. He called for the immediate sack of the CMD for alleged incompetence, maladministration and lukewarm attitude towards the plight of the workers. “Things are so bad in JUTH; as we speak to you, even common Paracetamol and Vitamin-C tablets are not available in that hospi-

tal,” he alleged. He also alleged that JUTH, a referral centre, was now referring patients to smaller hospitals, which he described as ‘very serious.’ Kabir also alleged that arrears of workers had not been paid to those promoted from Grade Level 13 to Grade Level 14, while labour leaders in the state had continued to suffer all manner of victimisation

for asking for fairness to all. NAN reports that the workers took their protest to Governor Simon Lalong, who lauded them for their orderly conduct and promised to relay their grievances to President Muhammadu Buhari. Lalong said he had already slated a meeting between the hospital's management and the workers for Friday, May 6.

Herdsmen: Northern senators caution leaders on inciting comments Chukwu David Abuja

s mixed reactions continued to trail the incessant attacks of communities by Fulani herdsmen in some parts of the country, northern Senators yesterday cautioned community leaders to desist from making inflammatory comments that may heat up the polity.

Goddey

Nigeria in particular and the country at large. Adamu frowned at what he described as the stereotypic categorisation of all herdsmen as Fulani, explaining that Nigerians from other regions across the country were also involved in cattle rearing in one form or the other. "I have a farm, I rear cows. I am not Fulani by birth. And if you go through northern states, you will see a lot of them."

CONFIRMATION/change OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as Miss Florence Tungbo now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Florence Goddey. All former documents remain valid. Local Govt. Council and the general public should please take note.

Dumbo

I formerly known as Bodonyefa Thompson now wish to be known and addressed Dumbo Thompson Bodonyefa. All former documents remain valid. EcoBank Plc and the general public note.

Preye

I formerly known as Keku Almeida Ayibakepreye now wish to be known and addressed Keku Preye. All former documents remain valid. Sterling bank Plc, Fidelity bank Plc, Sagbama LG Council and the general public please take note.

Okeke

I formerly known as Anyimigbo Chukwunonye Henrietta now wish to be known and addressed Okeke Chukwunonye Henrietta. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

Don

I formerly known as Selenanabokeme Idon now wish to be known and addressed Don Selo Idon. All former documents remain valid. Union bank Plc and the general public please take note.

Tosin

I formerly known Shokunbi Tunrayo Aina now wish to be known and addressed as Shokunbi Tunrayo Tosin. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Ovie

The senators operating under the auspices of the Northern Senators Forum gave the warning, while briefing journalists at a press conference in Abuja. Chairman of the forum, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, who spoke for the group, assured the nation that members of the forum would work assiduously to enact laws and amend existing ones to promote the interest of northern

I formerly known Waripamo Joel now wish to be known and addressed as Victor Ovie. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Chimezie

Mbah: I formerly known as Miss Esther Mbah now wish to be known and addressed Mrs. Esther Chimezie. All former documents remain valid. UBA Bank Plc, Eco Bank Plc, other banks and general public please take note.

Ehinomeh

I formerly known as Usiahon Faith Grace now wish to be known and addressed Usiahon Faith Ehinomeh. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

Onyemaechi

I formerly known as Abah Helary Amechi now wish to be known and addressed Abah Hillary Onyemaechi. All former documents remain valid. First bank Plc, Unity bank Plc and the general public please take note.

Ashaolu

I formerly known as Miss Owosho Ayomide Victoria now wish to be known and addressed Mrs. Ashaolu Owosho Ayomide Victoria. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

Akosua

I formerly known as Akpobomoere Mary Prekebina now wish to be known and addressed Akosua Prekebina. All former documents remain valid. Wema bank Plc, Diamond bank Plc and the general public please take note.

Aderemi

I formerly known Afeez Oluwaseyi now wish to be known and addressed as Tajudeen Afeez Aderemi. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Clarkson

I formerly known Ezetu Ebimie now wish to be known and addressed as Ezetu Segberu-Ebi Clarkson. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Ajani

I formerly known as Olufemi Seun Vincent now wish to be known and addressed Babayemi Seun Ajani. All former documents remain valid. The general public take note.

Maccarthy

I formerly known as Macco Bucci now wish to be known and addressed Maccarthy Maccowells Dinipre. All former documents remain valid. The general public take note.

Snow-White

I formerly known as Ayibaemi Snow-White Ayibakedimini and Friday Snow-White now wish to be known and addressed Ebikeme Fidelia. All former documents remain valid. First bank Plc and the general public please take note.

Endurance

I formerly known as Tele Oghenetega Clefford now wish to be known and addressed Tele Teddy Endurance. All former documents remain valid. Keystone bank Plc, First bank Plc, Sterling bank Plc and the general public take note.

Kaiza

This is to confirm that Eniudun Kaiza on my Diamond bank/BVN and Unnudu Kaizah on my Union bank account wrongly spelt is the same person as Enindu Kaiza. That henceforth I wish to be known and addressed Enindu Kaiza. All former documents remain valid. Diamond bank Plc, Union bank Plc and the general public please take note.

Yisa

I formerly known Rasaq Abudu now wish to be known and addressed as Yisa Rasaq Abudu. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Agina

I formerly known Uju Blessing Nweke now wish to be known and addressed as Uju Blessing Agina. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

atsina State government yesterday said it was determined to free the state from the shackles of financial crisis rocking the country by diversifying its economy. This was disclosed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Mustapha Muhammed Innuwa, at a press briefing in Lagos, ahead of an economic summit billed for May 9 to 11, 2016, in the state. The summit, with the themed: “Unlocking investment potentials for sustainable development,” Innuwa said, is aimed at showcasing the areas where the state has comparative advantage and ensure they are exploited to the benefit of both the investors and the state.

Chairman of the Economic and Investment Summit Committee, Alhaji Ibrahim Tukur Jikamshi, in his address at the briefing, said the event is basically aimed at opening up the state for investment in line with the idea of the present administration in the state. Jikamshi described the state as being very rich in mineral resources such as sorghum, kaolin, silicon and granite, adding that the state is doing well in agriculture, especially the production of sugarcane, cotton and tomatoes. He said the summit is being packaged in collaboration with NDIC and USAID, among other agencies, to ensure the linking of producers with buyers and eliminate hiccups in trade.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PECULIAR BROTHERS CLUB OF PORTHARCOURT

This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part "C" of the Companies and allied Matters Act of 1990. The Trustees are: 1. Odoh Celetine Onyebuchi. 2. Eze Celestine Izu. 3. Igbozor Chikezie Joe. 4. Okorie Anthony Chukwunon. 5. Okpara Nobert Chinedu. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote love, peace, progress, and understanding among all members. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. SIGNED: ODOH CELETINE ONYEBUCHI

PUBLIC NOTICE

HEALINGSTREAM COVENANT CHAPEL INT’L

This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for incorporation under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990. The Trustees are: 1. Pastor Coleman Chidiebere Duruh 2. Pastor Mrs. Leona Meruobi Duruh 3. Bro. Okwulu Sunday Chukwudi 4. Bro. Mukoro Blessing Samuel Ovie 5. Mrs. Abdallah Abidemi.

–General Overseer –Secretary

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To preach the word of God. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. SIGNED: TRUSTEES

PUBLIC NOTICE

BAPTIST GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL AGBOR, OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION, LAGOS BRANCH

This is to inform the general public that the above named ASSOCIATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for incorporation under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990. The Trustees are: 1. Okparaji Imade Bridget 2. Usholo Josephine Oiyokun 3. Azuara Blessing Amenaghawon 4. Laticia Ogene Oputa. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote peace, unity and love among members. 2. To care for members welfare. 3. To protect the interest of the members. 4 To provide peaceful co-existence among its members. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. SIGNED: TRUSTEES

News|north

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ahmed seeks removal of teachers’ salaries from LGCs

Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

wara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, yesterday called on stakeholders in the education sector to map out strategies for taking basic education teachers’ salaries from the Local Government Councils across the country. The governor made the call when the Execu-

tive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Alhaji Dikko Sulyman and his management team visited him at the Government House, Ilorin. According to Ahmed, local government councils lack capacities to finance the payment of basic education teachers’ salaries, especially with the decline in allocations from the federation account. The governor, therefore, called for a review

Yuguda’s allies form consultation committee to decide party Nankpah Bwakan Bauchi

olitical associates and supporters of former governor of Bauchi State, Mallam Isah Yuguda have formed a committee for wider consultation among interested groups and individuals in the state. The committee, tagged: “Yuguda Political Transition Committee,” was formed by Yuguda’s former commissioners, advisers and supporters after he dumped the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) about two weeks ago. The former governor dumped the Peoples’ Democratic Party citing loss of direction by the present leadership of the party as some of his reasons for leaving the party. Besides, Yuguda cited the involvement of top members of the party in the $2.1 billion arms scandal as one of the reason that prompted his resolve to leave the PDP. The state PDP Women

leader, 20 Yuguda Support Group, Local Government Coordinators and a PDP local government party chairman also dumped the party recently and pledged their loyalty to the former governor. The consultation group, according to the former Commissioner for Information in Yuguda’s cabinet, Alhaji Salisu Barau, was formed to consolidate the political movement and machinery, as well as the philosophy of the former governor. “This group was formed to determine our next move as well as advise our mentor, Mallam Isah Yuguda about what next to do and how to go about it,” he said. He noted that the group, which is headed by the former Adviser to the former Governor on Political Matters, Abdulmumini Mohammed Kundak, has former Commissioner for Works, Alhaji Sani Mohammed Bura, as secretary.

Cherubim & Seraphim leader challenges Buhari on hardship Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

piritual Head and Baba Aladura of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church Worldwide (Ayo Ni o), Most Reverend Samuel Abidoye, yesterday challenged President Muhammadu Buhari on the urgent need to address the current hardship facing Nigerians in the last one year after the change of government. Specifically, Abidoye called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on the continued spate of killing by the suspected Fulani herdsmen in all parts of the country, saying the onslaught has assumed a frightening dimension. The head of the C&S Movement church, however, traced the increas-

ing rate of kidnapping in the country to joblessness among the young ones, urging the President to put in place measures that would curb the trend as well as initiate policies that will enhance job creation for the unemployed restive youths. Addressing journalists on his 10th year installation as Spiritual Head/Baba Aladura at the C&S Galilee Land, Orile-Igbon, Oyo State, the cleric said Nigerians should realise the need for the declaration of emergency in the interest of peace and cohesion of the nation. This is as the Baba Aladura called on security agencies to swing into action in order to bring the culprits to book and calm the frayed nerves of the people in the affected communities.

of the current revenue allocation for mula, which he pointed out favours the Federal Government at the detriment of the state and local government levels. Speaking on other problems confronting education in the country, the governor made a case for a national sum-

26.33%

The percentage of individuals using the internet in France in 2001. Source: Itu.int

11,701

The total number of subscribers of Globacom Limited (fixed/fixed wireless) as at December 2014. Source: Ncc.gov.ng

mit on how to reform the education sector at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels. “It is important that a summit is organised to improve the availability of school infrastructure; accessibility and the quality of teachers. It has to be taken from a national perspective”, he said. He expressed concern about the quality of teachers being produced by the colleges of education to serve the basic education level, stressing that the colleges of education curriculum was not designed for the basic education level. According to him, the curriculum of the scrapped Grade II Teacher’s programme was better designed to

teach and address the learning needs of the pupils at the primary level unlike what obtains in the system presently. While responding, the executive secretary said the commission has initiated a number of infrastructural development programmes in the basic education level across the state. The programmes, he said, include the renovation of dilapidated school structures, two electronic libraries, and seven Almajiri schools among others. Suleiman commended the state government for the prompt payment of its UBEC counterpart funds to access the state allocation for execution of school projects.

Plateau: Police debunk report declaring PDP member wanted Musa Pam Jos

lateau State Police Command yesterday debunked reports published in some online media that the police has declared wanted a member of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Dung Tari. Dung is from Vwang village in Jos South Local Government Area of the state. The Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abu Emmanuel, while reacting on the matter, however, told New Telegraph in Jos, the state capital, that the police had not issued any circular or statement declaring anyone wanted following the PDP congresses in the state.

L-R : Katsina State Governor, Aminu Bello Masari; Commissioner of Commerce and Industry, Alhaji Abubakar Yusuf and Executive Secretary/CEO, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Mr. Hassan Bello, during a courtesy visit on the governor in Katsina… yesterday.

Bello, NLC warn media practitioners against crisis Dan Atori MINNA

ournalists in the country have been warned by the Governor of Niger State, Abubakar Sani Bello, to shun reportage or activities that could create crisis in the country. While calling on journalists at the World Press Freedom Day Dinner jointly organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Radio Television Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) to take advantage of the profession to bring about positive change, the governor urged them to confirm and verify their re-

ports before going to press. Bello, who was represented by the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Jonathan Vatsa, said all forms of sectional reporting should be discouraged in the country. “We must use our pens to promote the unity of this country. The print media is now too sectional and regional, so much that some of them promote ethnicity and sometimes religious division and regional biases,” he said. The governor added: “We should be concerned with what unites us and not what will divide us. I wish the National Assembly would pass a bill that will

promote the unity of the country.” He further called on media organisations to look into the welfare of their reporters and ensure that journalists are well remunerated and taken care of in terms of welfare. Also, the Chairman of the state wing of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Idris Ndako, admonished media practitioners in the country not to be fearless in the dissemination of information. “Don’t ever underrate any institution in this country. If you want to say anything, say it as you see it and do not be afraid to tell

El-Rufai appoints vice chair for Kaduna investment agency

ollowing the huge success recorded at the recently concluded Kaduna Economic and Investment Summit (KADInvest), the Kaduna State Government has appointed Flour Mills boss, John Coumantaros, as Vice-Chairman of Kaduna Investment Promotion Agency (KA-

DIPA). The corporate guru is expected to lead a team of private sector players, who under the chairmanship of Deputy Governor Barnabas Yusuf Bala, will work to realise the investment goals of the state government. Other members of the

KADIPA board are Hajiya Farida Dankaka, Mrs. Adama Jibrin, Alhaji Abdulkadir Idris Mayana, and Samaila Barau Maigoro. As part of the further institutionalising KADIPA, the state government has announced the appointment of an executive team for the agency.

the truth because that will be your greatest undoing,” he added. Meanwhile, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Jibrin Ndace, while commending journalists in the state, urging the practitioners to be mindful of what is being reported. “Sometimes, some reports can stir up crisis and send wrong messages, but we need to report our stories in a professional manner,” he said. Jibrin, however, added: “If we abuse the power of the pen, we can set the country on fire. But anyone, who undermines journalists, does that at his own peril.” The team, according to the government, will be led by Gambo Hamza as Executive Secretary, while Hafiz Bayeroheading will hold sway as the Investor Relations, with Hadiza Hamza as the Public-Private Partnerships and Privatisation, while the finance and administration function will be superintended by Shizzer Bada.

WORLD \ NEWS

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

1,600 buildings damaged in Canadian wildfire

wildfire has brought “significant destruction” to the Canadian city of Fort McMurray, with 1,600 structures affected, the premier of the province of Alberta says. Rachel Notley said the fire

was still on the move, with more communities, including the airport area, in danger. Fire services said the high winds and hot temperatures would make Wednesday an “even worse day” than Tuesday. Some 80,000 residents

have been evacuated, with no injuries reported. Ms Notley said that the fire had moved north and east across the city and that if the winds behaved as predicted, the blaze would move into the Thickwood and Timberlea communities, as

well as the area around the airport. Fire services said the size of the fire was now 7,500 hectares (29 sq miles) and was being tackled by 100 firefighters, with efforts focused on downtown, the Gregoire area

and the airport. Ms. Notley said the downtown area was at present mostly unaffected. She praised Albertans for helping neighbours in need. “We will get through this and we will come out stronger on the other side,” she said.

Protesters burn schools in South Africa’s Limpopo province

rotesters, angered by a change in municipal boundaries which they fear will leave them worse off for social services, torched 13 schools in South Africa’s northern Limpopo province, police said as tensions rose ahead of local polls in August. The latest protests were triggered by a high court ruling upholding a decision to shift some districts from one municipality’s jurisdiction to another. Many protesters said the change meant the quality of social services would change, leaving them worse off. With elections scheduled for August 3, the demonstrations over services are starting to take on an increasingly political tone, suggesting they could get worse in the next few months. Police said residents in Vuwani district and nearby areas set alight a post office and other government buildings on Monday and Tuesday nights leaving smouldering structures behind.

Residents had also set up roadblocks to the area, Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said. The protests began after the High Court upheld the Demarcation Board’s decision to include the districts, currently under Makhado municipality, into the Malamulele district after residents had filed a case to oppose the change. “What we are requesting from the police is that they ... provide more manpower in the area and ensure that important public infrastructure is protected,” said Limpopo Premiere Stanley Mathabatha speaking on local TV news channel, eNCA. The Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga said the actions of protesters undermined government efforts to improve education and infrastructure. “It is not only a waste of taxpayers’ money to lose valuable existing infrastructure but disrespects the hard work of every law abiding member of society,” Motshekga said in a statement.

European Central Bank to withdraw €500 note

he European Central Bank (ECB) says it will no longer produce the €500 (£400; $575) note because of concerns it could facilitate illegal activities. The decision comes in the wake of a European Commission inquiry in February into the way the notes are used. Senior ECB officials said at the time that they needed more evidence that the notes facilitated criminal activity. The UK asked banks to stop handling €500 notes in 2010 after a report found they were mainly used by criminals. The ECB says the €500 banknote remains legal tender

and will always retain its value. It will stop issuing the note around the end of 2018, when it will bring in new €100 and €200 banknotes. A report earlier this year for the Harvard Kennedy School, urged the world’s 20 largest economies to stop issuing the largest notes in circulation - £50, $100 and €500 notes - to tackle crime. Peter Sands, former chief executive of Standard Chartered bank, said the high-denomination notes were favoured by terrorists, drug lords and tax evaders, argues Illegal money flows exceed $2 trillion (£1.4 trillion) a year, Mr Sands said.

Dozens killed in Syria’s Aleppo battle

ozens of people were killed in an intense day-long battle between Syrian rebels and government forces in western Aleppo that continued intermittently on yesterday, with rebels saying they were forced to retreat by heavy aerial bombing. An insurgent assault in and around the Jamiyat al-Zahraa area of Aleppo had threatened the army’s defensive lines around government held districts of a city at the epicenter of a recent escalation in the five year old civil war. The surge in bloodshed in

Aleppo, Syria’s largest city and biggest strategic prize, wrecked the first major “cessation of hostilities” agreement of the war, sponsored by Washington and Moscow, which had held since February. The German and French foreign ministers said that achieving a ceasefire in Aleppo was critical to renewing peace talks. “I believe everyone knows and can conclude that there could be no return to the political talks in Geneva if a ceasefire in and around Aleppo is not observed,” German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier told reporters in Berlin.

The wildfire is worsening along Highway 63 in Fort McMurray, Alberta

Egyptian journalists vow to go on strike if...

undreds of Egyptian journalists rallied in Cairo yesterday in an escalating standoff with police, saying the media would go on strike next week if demands including the dismissal of the interior minister are not met. On the steps outside their union headquarters, they chanted “Journalism is not a crime” while demanding Interior Minister Magdy AbdelGhaffar’s departure following a police raid on the premises and the arrest of two journalists. The protests are the latest in a series of demonstrations against the government of President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, which has banned virtually all protests and carried out a wideranging crackdown on dissent. The government’s decision to transfer two Red Sea islands

to Saudi Arabia last month brought protesters into the streets on two occasions, marking the largest show of public defiance of el-Sissi since he was elected in 2014. Police severely restricted access to the site, banning nonunion members from entry, as well as some residents and people who came on work errands to the surrounding area. Foreign journalists were allowed entry only after approval by several levels of officers, up to the rank of general. At one point, several dozen journalists pushed through a barrier and entered the area, causing a brief moment of chaos. Several held up their union cards, saying that the police would not let them enter despite the membership. “There are thugs here threatening us, and the police don’t want us to en-

ter for the meeting because they know we’ll condemn the Interior Ministry,” said journalist Ahmed Bakr, who was allowed into the building’s street eventually. The union, which held a general assembly, demanded the release of all detained journalists as well as a presidential apology by Tuesday, saying reporters would go on strike if the demands were not met. In the meantime, it decided to print a logo reading “no to media gag order” on newspapers. If its demands are not met, the union plans to boycott all statements coming from the ministry. Several dozen counterdemonstrators and el-Sissi supporters showed up at either end of the blocked-off street, blasting patriotic songs, chanting “Long live Egypt” and insulting union members, who responded by calling the police “thugs.”

US 2016: Trump’s nomination divides Republicans

op Republicans are divided on whether to support Donald Trump after the businessman all but secured the party’s presidential nomination. Some took to social media to disavow their membership in the party by burning their voter registration forms. Others, though, started to fall in line behind the candidate, saying Mr Trump is vastly preferable to Hillary Clinton, the likely Democratic nominee. Mr. Trump is deeply unpopular among many key voting blocs in the US. “If we nominate Trump, we will get destroyed... and we will deserve it,” South Carolina Senator Lindsay Graham said on Tuesday after Texas Senator Ted Cruz dropped out of

the race, effectively clearing a path for Mr. Trump. Others such as former Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, who have been harsh critics of Mr. Trump in the past, said they would support him in the general election. “There’s a lot about Donald Trump that I don’t like, but I’ll vote for Trump over Hillary any day,” said Ari Fleischer, press secretary for former President George W Bush. Considered a long shot when he launched his campaign in June, Mr Trump has decisively won a large number of states across the US, defeating an experienced field of rivals. Ohio Governor John Kasich has vowed to remain in the Republican race, but trails far behind Mr. Trump

in terms of delegates. Some Republican analysts fear Mr. Trump’s candidacy could have a crippling effect on other races, giving Democrats the chance to retake the Senate and possibly, but less likely, the House. Republican senators up for re-election in Democratic leaning states such as Kelly Ayotte in New Hampshire and Pat Toomey in Pennsylvania have sought to distance themselves from Mr Trump. There are concerns about some of his policies on immigration and national security, like building a wall on the southern US border paid for by Mexico, a ban on Muslims coming to the US and the killing of the families of terrorists.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sport

Sport News

Did you know?

FIFA remembers late Yekini

That Mark Schwarzer has won back-to-back EPL titles with Chelsea (2015) and Leicester (2016), from the bench

International Sport John Terry confirmed for Yobo Centenary Game

46 47

Oguchi, Ezeali, Obasohan battle for Rio shirts Emmanuel Tobi

Iheanacho

Guardiola

Goater: Guardiola needs Iheanacho to excel The Sport Team Adekunle Salami Group Sport Editor

Emmanuel Tobi Assistant Sport Editor

Ajibade Olusesan Sport Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya Sport Correspondent

Azeez Ibrahim

ne of the legends of Manchester City, Shaun Goater, has urged incoming manager of the team, Pep Guardiola, to bank on Nigerian teenage sensation, Kelechi Iheanacho, rather than spending big on another forward. Goater noted that the incoming coach would need the Iheanacho to boost his chances of recording instant success at the club. The Nigerian striker has made a huge impact in his debut first-team campaign, contributing 13 goals and five assists in 32 appearances in all competitions. Only on Sunday, Iheanacho was the sole bright note for his team yet again in an EPL game, scoring two goals in a disappointing 4-2 defeat by Southampton.

And Goater, who scored 101 goals for City, believes the 19-year-old can secure a key role in his new manager’s plans when Guardiola arrives after leaving Bayern Munich. “A few months ago, I used to think we needed a forward to push Aguero, but Kelechi Iheanacho has a frightening record and is excelling in his role,” he told 888sport. “He also has a good work ethic and this is a key thing Pep Guardiola will be looking for next season – a work ethic as well as producing goals.” The Club legend is optimistic that Guardiola will excel at the club from next season. “In the three-year period he (Guardiola) is expected to be at the club, he will win the Champions League and he will also win the league,” Goater added.

he battle for places for the Nigeria basketball squad for the 2016 Olympics started on Wednesday as the coaching crew of the D’Tigers led by Will Voigt unveiled a 27-man preliminary squad with 2015 Afrobasket Most Valuable Player Chamberlain Oguchi, Golden State Warriors center Festus Ezeli and sharpshooter Derrick Obasohan headlining the team. Nigeria will play in Group B and will file out against Spain, Argentina, Lithuania, Brazil as well as one of the three teams that will qualify via the 2016 FIBA Olympic qualifying tournaments. Eight new faces were included in Nigeria’s 27-man preliminary squad for the Rio 2016 Olympics, The newcomers include Festus Ezeli and Thanasis Antetokounmpo of the New York Knicks’ D-League affiliate Westchester Knicks, with both players set to compete for final roster spots. Sharpshooter Derrick Obasohan - a key member of Nigeria’s team that competed at the 2012 FIBA Olympic qualifying tournament - is looking to return to the national team having last featured at the London Olympics. All 12 players that suited up for Nigeria on its title run at AfroBasket 2015 have been included in the squad that will hold a training camp. Meanwhile, Nigeria Basketball Federation President, Tijani Umar, confirmed that Orlando Magic guard Victor Oladipo was yet to decide on his future with the D’Tigers, NBBF Chairman, told FIBA.com: “These are the players that our head coach thought were right to work with.” With warm-up games against Olympics champions USA set for July, the NBBF and Voigt included home-based players Abubakar Usman and Stanley Gumut. The team’s training camp is expected to open in Los Angeles Bakersfield in June.

Oguchi (center)

Nigeria’s preliminary squad Usman Abubukar, Alade Aminu, AlFarouq Aminu, Josh Akognon, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Suleiman Braimoh, Folarin Campbell, Ike Diogu, Ebi Ere, Festus Ezeli, Michael Gbinije, Stanley Gumut, Ekene Ibekwe, Shane Lawal, Trevor Mbakwe, David Nwaelele, Derrick Obasohan, Ike Ofoegbu, Andy Ogide, Chamberlain Oguchi, Stan Okoye, Jamal Olasewere, Olumide Oyedeji, Mike Umeh, Mfon Udofia, Ekpe Udoh and Ben Uzoh.

SPORT NEWS

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

FIFA remembers Yekini

Azeez Ibrahim

orld football ruling body, the Federation of International Football Associations on Wednesday remembered Nigeria’s late international, Rashidi Yekini, four years after his death. According to press statements on their official website, FIFA eu-

logised the former Super Eagles striker, who passed away at the age of 48. Yekini, an epitome of class on the field, represented Nigeria in five major tournaments, and scored 37 goals in 58 appearances for the Super Eagles. FIFA.com looks back on his memorable goal and subsequent celebration. Yekini who

Yekini

played for several clubs in Spain, Greece, Portugal and Switzerland, could hardly believe he had scored and spontaneously grabbed the net, shaking it in celebration. The photo of the 58time Nigeria international captivated the world and even today the former striker, who in 1993 was the first Nigerian to be voted African Footballer of the Year, remains a respected figure in the global football family. “Rasheed Yekini was one of the best players at the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the USA,” said former FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter when he learned of Yekini’s death. “Against Bulgaria he scored Nigeria’s first ever FIFA World Cup goal, a strike that will earn him a place in the annals of Nigerian football. He will be sorely missed.”

Enyimba stun Pillars in Kano Charles Ogundiya

Rivers United’s Bernard Ovote (right) against Enyimba’s Ifeanyi George during a recent league game

Oduduru, Osazuwa win AFN All-Comers Charles Ogundiya

ormer junior international, Divine Oduduru, was one of the star attractions of the Athletic Federation of Nigeria’s first event of the year, as he won the men’s 100m race at the All-Comers meet. Oduduru finished the race in 10.36secs at the Yabatech Sports Complex, ahead of Jare Folarin (10.61secs) and Stanley Mbamara (10.84secs) in second and third position respectively. In the women’s race, Agnes Osazuwa, was the winner, finishing in 11.51secs with Uko Peace in second position with time of 11.54secs and Aniekeme Alphonsus finishing third with time of 11.58secs. With the Olympic Games

NFF reaches out to oil sector for support Adeolu Johnson ABUJA

s part of the efforts to raise funds for the successful campaign of the national teams especially the qualification of the Super Eagles for the World Cup in 2018, the board of the Nigeria Football Federation has concluded plans to approach the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, to assist in the oil sector. The NFF board after a meeting held at the Conference Room of the Minister of Youth and Sports on Tuesday de-

cided that its President, Amaju Pinnick and second Vice President, Shehu Dikko, should meet the Petroleum Minister and discuss how the federation can get support from major oil companies like Oando, Shell, Total and others. “We just got Zenith on, Oando is coming onboard any moment from now; they have been packaged and lined up, but I said let’s build the right foundation. “They are now saying that we are sending referees abroad; they are seeing the result in the quality of officiating

especially in the premier league, people are coming back to the stands. “There are natural factors that must induce sponsorship and until you establish the right foundation, sponsorship is not donation, it will not come,” our source said. Zenith Bank Plc recently signed a partnership agreement with the NFF for a comprehensive programme aimed at developing U-13 and U-15 national football teams.

com that the one–week championship will start on Thursday (today). “All arrangements have been perfected for a hitch–free tournament. The teams will arrive in Minna on Wednesday and screening will hold the same day, while the competition will begin on Thursday. “We know how important this championship is to the present NFF administration and we will spare no effort to organize a successful competition,” Fresh said. The finals of the inaugural NFF/Zenith Bank Future Eagles Championship will take place in Lagos by the end of this month.

around the corner, the AFN have stated clearly that all the remaining events this year would be invitational. The best athletes at the AllComers will be invited to the first Golden League scheduled for Bauchi on May 14 as the federation intensifies Olympics preparations. Meanwhile, Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medalist, Ese Brume, started her season with women’s 400m at the All-Comers. According to her coach, Kayode Yaya, the race was part of her programme for the year to attained full fitness. The athlete who was known for jumps (long and triple jump) and 100m surprised everyone present as she finished fourth in her heat.

Dalung joins Okpekpe race cast as top stars arrive

North Central set for Zenith Bank football meet e p re s e n t at ive teams of the seven states in the nation’s North Central geopolitical zone will arrive in Minna, Niger State today for the zonal finals of the maiden edition of the NFF/Zenith Bank Future Eagles Championship. The competition, which is for U-13 and U-15 categories, will see Niger, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kwara, Benue and Kogi States and the Federal Capital Territory slug it out for supremacy in the Niger State capital. Chairman of the Niger State Football Association and Coordinator of the zone, Alhaji Yusuf Fresh, told thenff.

nyimba proved their mettle as defending champion by defeating Kano Pillars 2-1 on Wednesday at the Sani Abacha Stadium thereby denying the host team the chance to go top of the Nigeria league table. Pillars went in front through skipper Rabiu Ali after 20 minutes, before midfielder Nzube Anaezemba restored parity in the 51st minute. Experienced central defender Ike ThankGod grabbed the match winner for Enyimba eight minutes from time in a rescheduled league match.

Dalung

ports Minister, Solomon Dalung, has registered for Saturday’s IAAF Bronze Label fourth Okpekpe international 10km road race. The minister has submitted his registration form to the organisers of the race and will join Edo state Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, to race for fun. “We are delighted to

have the number one sports man in Nigeria register for the race. This shows a recognition by government of the image laundering power of sports and that the Okpekpe race,” said Dare Esan, spokesman for the race. Meanwhile, as many as 11 gold level elite runners are among the 20 in-

Akinwunmi charges Nigerians on Coerver Coaching

head of the coerver coaching programme coming up at the Agege Stadium, Lagos from May 9 to11, the Lagos State Football Association chairman, Mr. Seyi Akinwunmi, has charged Nigerian coaches to grab the opportunities provided by this programme to enhance their technical and mental performance in soccer. Seyi Akinwunmi said this while receiving the officials of Coerver coaching

programme in his office. The chairman, disclosed at the meeting that there was nowhere in the world where football growth was achieved without developing a culture that builds human capacity which was what the coerver project was offering to Nigerians. “We are pacesetters in Nigeria, we will not depart from this tradition. That we are associated with COERVER COACHING is something we are proud

of and hope to influence beyond the territory of Lagos” Akinwunmi added. In his comments, Chief Executive Officer/ Technical Director, Coerver Coaching Netherlands, Rainel Woerdings, noted that, Nigeria had the potentials to produce coaches that can match the best in the world, if only the country can embrace a more robust technical and mental shift from what they are currently familiar with.

ternational elite athletes who arrived Nigeria on Wednesday for Saturday’s fourth Okpekpe international 10km road race in Okpekpe near Auchi in Edo State. Also in town for the IAAF Bronze Label race is the international elite athletes manager, Walter Abmayr. Esan noted that five out of the gold level elite runners were women while six were men. “Our international elite athletes manager has confirmed 20 world class runners made up of nine women and eleven men for Saturday’s race. Out of the 20,11 are gold level elite runners, eight are silver while only one bronze level elite runner has been confirmed for the race thereby raising the standard of the race from a bronze label one to gold in terms of the quality of the international elite field,’ said Esan.

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

The Muyiwa Daniel Column md_muyiwa@yahoo.com 08023525087 (sms only)

Dalung and the hillsborough lead!

t’s so apt that Nigeria’s Sports Minister- Solomon Dalung-is a learned friend, a lawyer and one who believes in dispensing justice with pleadings from the bar across to the Judge on the bench. I have read a couple of tweets from Dalung especially as regards the Jos High Court Judgment in the Chris Giwa versus Amaju Pinnick’s claim to the leadership seat of the Nigeria Football Federation. I have also watched, heard and read Minister Dalung’s swipe at us- Sporstwriters- joining the bandwagon that we are guilty–as charged-by him and others- of charges “eating from both sides of our mouths” in matters of soiling of hands that cannot-or put succinctly-have not been proven by former Eagles coach-Sunday Oliseh-after his mental charge outburst on YouTube-incurring the “wrath” of SWAN Secretary-general-Andrew Abah-a man I am yet to read his reaction to Dalung’s “accusations” against the profession I have served with heads high since 1978. What a pity! However, I feel so much grateful that vindication maybe on the way of the righteous in our country in unfolding the mask on who should be held responsible for the deaths at the Lagos National Stadium Sportscity after the Challenge Cup disaster in a stampede that led to deaths as the gates were locked on fans and the outcome was more than 75 lives snuffed out as result of the melee. On Tuesday, April 26, 2016, a landmark decision was taken as St George’s Hall in England in the case of the 96 Liverpool fans who were killed 27 years ago at the Hillsborough Stadium in the game the team played against Sheffield United. The jury finally came with the verdict that Police Chief, Andrew Hartkinson, who led the security team be held responsible for the deaths at the stadium. I followed reactions from the families of the deceased who waved flags and sang the Liverpool anthem “You Cannot Walk Alone” as the verdict came from St George’s Hall. Liverpool’s Zimbabwean-born keeper, Bruce Grobeallar, whose goalpost backed the turnstile where the stampede began recalled how himself and medical personnel battled to save the lives of fans who had to sprawl on the lawn. The jury’s decision was an avenue for me to remember my colleague, late Charles Arubi, a Liverpool fan to the hilt, whom we had discussed when an inquest will be carried out on the Sportscity deaths. The National Sports Commission then had issued a terse statement that “an official” who had the keys to the gates had “disappeared” while tear-gas” fumes choked the fans who were pressed against the steel gates. On the same date one of the journalists who worked under late commentator-Denis Liwewe-of Zambian Radio-had interviewed Football Association President, Kalusha Bwalya, on when an inquest will be carried out on the plane crash that wiped away a whole generation of the country’s players off the Gabonese coast on their way to honouring a World Cup qualifier. Kalusha, a deft player with an efficient left foot was captain of the national team but escaped the crash because he was to arrive Dakar from Mexico where he played professional football. The interview on Zambia’s national network got the family of the players demanding from government NOT only an inquest into the cause of death on a military aircraft but the lack of compensation as promised by late President Frederick Chiluba. I have had cause to fly with sports delegations, especially football on military C-130 aircrafts, from 1983 when President Muhammadu Buhari first arrived the national scene as a military Head of State . It was the period when airforce officers, Bayo Lawal, late Emeka Omeruah and Tony Ikhazoboh were either Sports Ministers or NFA Chairmen. I got scared when a whole set of officers were killed in a C-130 crash at Ejigbo in Lagos. The importance of the inquest through the office of the Public Defender in the Attorney-General’s Office as initiated by Minister Dalung appearing with a difference in his wig and gown instead of the khaki and beret brand will be to have justice delivered to the deceased and compensation for their families. Dalung please accept this Hillsborough lead. It is IMPORTANT!

INTERNATIONAL SPORT

John Terry confirmed for Yobo Centenary Game

helsea Captain, John Terry, is the latest player from the English Premier League to confirm to be available in Port Harcourt for the Joseph Yobo Centenary Game scheduled for May 27 to celebrate the retirement of the former Super Eagles captain from football. The centre back who captained England national football team, the Three Lions, between August 2006 and February 2010 confirmed his availability for the game to Yobo at the weekend. “We are really excited by the confirmation of John Terry for the Yobo Centenary Game in Port Harcourt. He’s one big player that is very popular here in the country because of England and Chelsea’s large followership in Nigeria,” Coordinator of the Centenary Game, Waidi Akanni, said.

Also confirmed for the match are top African players like Samuel Eto’o Fils, the Ayew Brothers, Dede and Jordan, Sulley Muntari, Djibrin Cisse and Tresor Lualua amongst others. Akanni, a former Super Eagles player, said yesterday in Lagos that the Yobo testimonial had continued to generate interests from past and present players from around the world. Last weekend, Yobo who was special guest at Everton’s home game against Bournemouth was duly hailed by fans who remembered his 10 years adventure there. Chants of ‘Yobo, Yobo, Yobo’ rocked the stands as fans honoured him. The Joseph Yobo Foundation is in partnership with Rivers State Government for the Centenary Game billed for the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in the Garden City.

Yobo

rturo Vi d a l has lashed out at Champions League finalists Atletico Madrid over the manner of their victory on Tuesday night, blaming Bayern Munich’s exit on Diego Simeone’s “ugly football”. Bayern were 2-1 victors on the night with goals from Xabi Alonso and Robert Lewandowski, but Atletico went through on away goals after securing a 1-0 win at the Vicente Calderon a week earlier. The result condemned Pep Guardiola to his fourth successive Champions League semi-final defeat, whilst Atletico celebrated reaching their second final in three years. The result condemned Pep Guardiola to his fourth successive Champions League semi-final defeat, whilst Atletico celebrated reaching their second final in three

Three Chinese clubs offer Costa £250,000-a-week

iego Costa has three huge offers on the table from Chinese clubs. The striker has been linked with a summer exit, despite both Chelsea and the player not being keen on parting ways this summer. But the mega money waiting for the Spain international in the Far East could be too hard to resist for the 27-year-old. Midfield ace Ramires quit Chelsea for Jiangsu Suning in January, and Costa could decide to follow suit. Chelsea fans reckon the club should accept the rumoured £72.1m bid for Diego Costa from a Chinese club. The Mirror claim a pay packet in the region of £250,000-a-week is waiting for him in China - with three clubs contacting his representatives already. Atletico Madrid have also revealed they would love to bring Costa back to Spain. The report adds new Blues boss Antonio Conte has already lined up a replacement if Costa leaves.

Vidal: Atletico Madrid play ugly football years. Speaking after the match, the Chile international made it clear that he felt the result was an unfair reflection of the ninety minutes. “We were superior,” he said.

Vidal

Ranieri deserves Italian honour - Prime Minister

Costa (left)

taly’s Prime Minister Matteo Renzi says he is going to put Claudio Ranieri forward for an honour after he guided Leicester City to the Premier League title. Speaking to Rtl radio, Renzi commended Ranieri for his achievement and said he warrants some form of recognition by the Italian state. “I’m going to propose to [Italy’s President Sergio] Mattarella and the committee that Claudio be honoured, to pay tribute to this great Ital-

ian,” Renzi said, according to ANSA. “He’s delivered a great message by saying that you must always believe.” Ranieri won his first major league title against all odds with two games of the Premier League season to play. His achievement has dominated the Italian media in recent days with numerous congratulations from his peers and a Twitter message from Renzi hailing “the biggest achievement in the history of English football.”

On Marble

“Don’t live your life with anger and hate in your heart as you will only be hurting yourself more than the people you hate.”

Sanctity of Truth

Mike A. Wilkie The authoritarian African regimes (1)

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

– Robert Tew

THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016

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South-East, PDP and matters arising You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water. – Rabindranath Tagore

Political Musings

hould the South East remain in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)? This question was put forward at a political discourse in Abuja last week and it drew varying reactions from the audience that comprised mostly South Easterners.  The response was divergent and intriguing, do they have alternative? Some asked, as many in that region see the All Progressives Congress (APC) as no alternative. Others queried, who should they leave the party for? One lonely voice said, the region should embrace the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), build a strong Regional political base and negotiate their way at the centre. One elderly voice asked the pertinent question, are the parties our problem or our leaders?  The reactions that trailed that innocuous question clearly epitomize the confusion in the political direction of the South-East region. As we speak more than half of the South-East political leaders are one leg in APC the other leg in either PDP or APGA. The governors and elected persons who should be at the forefront of putting their parties in order for the challenges ahead are all deeply engaged in nocturnal meetings and secret political romancing with rival parties.  Clearly, the victim in all these is the region whose negotiating chain in the two main political parties is weak and virtually ineffective. Just less than10 years after the civil war in 1979, the South East through the sagacity and doggedness of its then political leaders, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Dr. Ozuomba Mbadiwe, Chief Christian Onoh, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Dr. Chuba Okadigbo, Chiefs Jim Nwobodo and Sam Mbakwe, Edwin Umezuoke, Nnia John Nwodo Jnr and a host of others were able to negotiate for the region some top positions such as the Vice President and Speaker of the House of Representatives; number two and four citizens in the political hierarchy in the land respectively. That was even notwithstanding that the region voted for a political party then, the Nigeria Peoples Party (NPP) that was not controlling the center which was then in the hands of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN). The tripod upon which the political foundation of this country was laid, the Igbo, the Hausa Fulani and the Yoruba was still being respected and jealously guided. Since the country returned to democracy in 1999, the negotiating power of the geo-political zone has been on a steady decline even to a point where they cannot at the moment be found in the first four top positions nor are they visible as head of any of the three arms of government. Even in the cabinet where they must be found, thanks to constitutional insistence on every state producing a Minister, beyond that, their Ministers cannot be found occupying any of the so called juicy Ministries ostensibly because they have not found favour with the new Sheriff in town.  As if that was not enough, the main

IKE ABONYI igwebuike2001@yahoo.com 0802-402-4029 (sms only)

Sheriff

opposition party, the PDP which the former Minister of Health Prof ABC Nwosu told the current National Chairman Ali Modu Sheriff, last week was nurtured and delivered in the South -East by Dr. Alex Ekwueme has joined in the deliberate down grading of political influence of the region in the country’s political equation.  Against this factual historical background came the question, should South -East remain in PDP? Under normal circumstance the question should be seen as provocative to the region given their unquantifiable contributions to the existence and growth of the party since inception in August 1998.  But when critically viewed from the position of the gradual and apparent regression of the zones influence all the while plus current emerging diminishing impact of the region in the party, one cannot but agree with the necessity of the question.

It’s really a shame that the region that should provide direction for the party has relegated itself to the backbench

Rohn

Of all the six geo-political regions in the land, there is none that the PDP has had its credible and distinguished leaders sidelined like the South East despite being the only region except the SouthSouth that has remained steadfast in supporting the party since 1998. In fact the two geo political zones, the South East and South-South have consistently produced more votes more than any other geopolitical zone in the country for the PDP.  As we speak now PDP is undergoing transformation as opposition party with a view to regaining power if APC continues to display its unfathomable policies and programs indicating its inability to tackle the myriad of challenges of today’s governance.  The National Executive Committee (NEC) of PDP recently approved the setting up of four committees to carry out this transformation in the party; Zoning committee; Convention committee; Finance committee and Reconciliation committee. In all these transformation agents, nobody in the South-East was found worthy to chair any of the four committees. The question to ask, is did our people show sufficient interest in activities of the party now or are they all in the wrong side of the “Sheriff of the Day” who it is as it where today, the man with the yam and the knife.  But talking seriously, leaders of PDP from the region should take a critical examination of their place in the emerging political equation and make haste to take needful steps to position themselves for the challenges ahead.  Going by the political re-engineering in the land, all other geo political zones

are shaping up except the South East.  When you see strange political meetings like that of Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti state with Rauf Aregbesola of Osun state and you watch the indefatigable former Lagos state Governor Bola Tinubu climbing down to mend fences with former Ogun State Governor Segun Osoba, know that a special food is being prepared by a chef for eating, not for now but with future in mind.  If some northern leaders who first shouted blue murder about the emergency of Ali Modu Sheriff as National Chairman are now mum, it’s to keep the region unbroken with their eyes fixed on the ball. Today, as we speak, the North is going to have both the National Chairman and the Presidential candidate because they need to be appeased for refusing to vote for the party in 2015. Strange political judgment that can come only from a people diseased by inferiority complex. Positions in the party were shared last week and South-East was “happy” to get the National Organising Secretary and Youth leader, the ones they found after the North, South-South and the South West finished picking.  The point that needs to be underscored at this juncture is that the fault, if any, should be heaped on the leaders of the South East and not on those who are getting their own axe together and taking their destiny in their own hands.  For the South-East, what you get instead is expansion and multiplication of political feud in the region. Anambra state whose nuisance value occupies a chapter in the nation’s current democratic dimension with PDP providing the comfort zone, has now infected Imo state with the states leaders spending large chunk of their resources bribing party leaders from the other zone to out-do one another. Every other day they risk the lives of their citizens ferrying supporters to Abuja to fight.  It’s really a shame that the region that should provide direction for the party has relegated itself to the backbench. It is also a shame that this is a party that was grown by Eastern leaders like Alex Ekwueme. It is even more shameful that this is a party that Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, as pioneer National Secretary built and facilitated the purchase of its current National Secretariat (Wadata Plaza), not to talk of the resource of the region while nurturing this party like the foundation funding from Chief Orji Uzor Kalu.  For today’s South-East leaders in PDP, the option is narrow and American author Jim Rohn certainly points their direction when he said “either you run the day or the day runs you” the choice is yours but time is not waiting for anyone. Like a good woman, time waits for no man. Like in religion so in politics, when God knows that you are ready for commitment, he will give you the right person. The question therefore is how committed are SouthEast leaders? Are they ignorant of the fact that in a polygamous political family like Nigeria, food is usually not necessarily for the hungry but for the available at the point of serving, a word is enough for the wise. God bless Nigeria.

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