Thursday, september 8, 2016 binder1 by Newtelegraphonline

Minister: Nigeria’s airports in pitiable state

…justifies concessioning of Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt airports Wole Shadare

said dilapidated facilities at most of the country’s aerodromes have nega-

inister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika,

tively affected the low passenger traffic currently recorded by the Federal

Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). Sirika, in an interac-

Save us from total collapse, Airlines beg FG }6

tion with the media late Monday night on the state of aviation, said Nigeria loses millions of dollars, adding that with the way

things are, super jumbo airplanes and many more airlines cannot operate to the country without facilities to handle such aircraft. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Sanctity Of Truth

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

S'East states owe retired teachers 70 months }41 pension –NUP

/newtelegraph /newtelegraph

Vol. 3 No. 932

Thursday, September 8, 2016

FG woos foreign investors with three years tax holiday }7

Ondo records Lassa fever outbreak }40

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Hausa-Fulani clash leaves nine dead in Lagos }8

N150

INEC bows to Police, DSS Okorocha

Fayemi

Mimiko

Owoseni

… to shift Edo governorship poll

Oshiomhole: Don’t postpone PDP’s final burial PDP: APC afraid of electoral defeat }2 Council of States approves Buhari economic policies ...confirms Idris appointment as IGP }4

New INEC commissioners

Mohammed Haruna (North-Central) AVM Ahmed Tijani Mu'Azu rtd (North-East) Abubakar Nahuca (North-West) Prof. Okechukwu Ibanu (South-East) May Agbamuche Mbu (South-South) Dr. Adekunle Ogunmola (South-West) New NPC commissioners

Dr. Eyitayo Oyetunji (Oyo) Barr. Patricia Iyaya (Benue) Engr. Benedict Ukpong (Akwa Ibom) Dr. Halu Bala (Kebbi) Gloria Isofo (Bayelsa)

L-R: President Muhammadu Buhari; National Security Adviser, Major General Babagana Monguno (rtd.); former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar and former President Goodluck Jonathan, after the Council of States meeting in Abuja…yesterday.

Military invades Ijaw communities, searches for Tompolo lEx-militant’s father dies two months after amputation lTroops arrest militant leaders – Army }3 Thyroid problems linked to cardiac arrest deaths

NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

INEC bows to Police, DSS, to shift Edo guber poll Onyekachi Eze and Emmanuel Onani Abuja

he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will today accede to the demand of both the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to postpone the Saturday, September 10 gubernatorial election in Edo State, New Telegraph has learnt. Impeccable source in INEC told New Telegraph last night that the commission will formally announce the postponement of the election today.

It was learnt that the electoral body will shift the election for between two and three weeks. Beyond the security concerns raised by the security agencies, the electoral body will also hinge the postponement of the governorship poll on the November/December West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSC) holding on Saturday. Thousands of students in Edo, across Nigeria and West African countries will be sitting for the Mathematics exams on Saturday between 9:30a.m. and 3:30p.m.

Oshiomhole: Don’t postpone PDP’s final burial Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

overnor Adams Oshiomhole has declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state was “over prepared” for the Saturday election. He also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to postpone the “final burial of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for too long.” Oshiomhole said: “The APC is ready for the election this Saturday and that was why we held our mega rally on Tuesday and after that rally, our people across the state became more committed, more dogged and ready for the Saturday election." The governor stated that he is getting ready to cast his vote. According to him, "I am already preparing to go to my village to also mobilise my people as other party leaders are doing, that is to let you know that we are not relaxing despite the fact that we know the PDP is already dead and our people are just getting ready for the burial. “However, security issues are security issues and as regards elections they are very critical. If on their own they are calling on INEC for postponement, I am sure they must have their reasons because

23%

The percentage of individuals using the internet in Belarus in 2008. Source: Itu.int

2.84%

The real quarterly GDP growth rate of Nigeria for Q3 2015. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

they are experts in it. If you recall, we raised the alarm that the PDP had planned to import thugs from neighbouring states to help them unleash mayhem on our people because they are not prepared for the election.” The governor stated that his fellow governors have vowed to deal with him during the election as fallout of the 2015 presidential election. “They have not been campaigning because they have no message, rather they imported thugs into the state. But I wish the election would go on so that security agents will pick them up and expose them. So, if security agents are raising this same alarm, I will not be surprised. I am aware some of my colleagues in the South-South threatened that they will deal with me in Edo because I went against former President Jonathan. "But I laughed because I am serving the living God and I am glad they brought a fake Pastor as their candidate and we will flush them all out. So these threats have been there, but my appeal is that if INEC is shifting the election, it should not be too far because we are eager to bury the PDP, we have purchased their coffin and ready to be sealed." “I am making this passionate appeal so that we can get this over. I am ready, my people are ready, whatever is the decision, we shall abide by it because I also know that security issues are serious matters,” he stated. The Director General of the Godwin Obaseki Campaign Organisation, Mr. Osarodion Ogie, told New Telegraph that both the APC and its candidate are ready for the scheduled governorship election.

Students who registered for the examination had staged a protest calling for the postponement of election. New Telegraph learnt that about 1,700 students have rejected plan to transfer them to neighbouring states for the examination. A source in INEC told New Telegraph that a meeting of the electoral body with the heads of security agencies will hold today in Benin after which INEC will announce its position. INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, confirmed that the electoral body had consulted with critical stakeholders and would meet with top echelon of security agencies before it could take an official position on the matter. At the meeting, the Police and DSS will share the intelligence report on the planned attacks by the terrorist group.

The source added that “Edo State has been calibrated and waiting for explosion” with the importation of thugs into the state. “Both Police and DSS are to provide security for the election, and if the security agencies advised against the conduct of the election, we have no choice. If we do otherwise and anything untoward happens, INEC will be held liable. So, we will definitely shift the election,” an INEC official told New Telegraph last night. Governor Adams Oshiomhole yesterday confirmed that political thugs have been imported to the state for the election. Oshiomhole appealed to INEC “that if INEC is shifting the election, it should not be too far because we are eager to bury the PDP, we have purchased their coffin and ready to be sealed."

Mr. Nick Dazang, Deputy Director of Voter Education and Publicity at INEC, said that in the aftermath of the advice to postpone the election, INEC met with stakeholders in Benin to seek their views and inputs on the matter. “We have consulted with the stakeholders, which are the political parties and their candidates as well as the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs). We have finished the consultation with the stakeholders. “What the commission has resolved after the meeting is that it will go back and consult with the security agencies to find out the details, because they are the ones that initiated that communication. “After that, the commission will meet and take a decision,” Dazang said. On the stakeholders’ reaction to the advice, he said: “They were over-

whelming in support of going forward with the election as scheduled. “Most of the political parties, too, were in support, but some of the parties were of the view that we should be careful and get more details on the information.” The Police and DSS had, earlier yesterday, called on INEC to postpone the Saturday election in Edo State, owing to security concerns. The two security agencies said their call was predicated on available intelligence indicating plans by extremist elements to attack vulnerable communities, as well as crowded places during the Sallah celebration. Incidentally, the security agencies said Edo State was among the vulnerable targets. CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

Former Abia State Governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu (left) and Luis Cardinal Antonio Tagle from Manila Philippine, at a dinner in honour of delegates to the ongoing Caritas conference and some diplomats in Abuja …on Tuesday. PHOTO: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN

APC afraid of electoral defeat – PDP Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the advice by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for a shift in the date of Edo State governorship election as a false alarm. The party also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to act independently and go ahead with the election as scheduled while it requested President Muhammadu Buhari to direct security agencies to provide full security for the election. In a statement yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Prince Dayo Adeyeye, PDP called on Buhari to caution the security agencies not to do anything that will jeopardise the Saturday's governorship election.

"It is on record that INEC recently conducted a 'hitch-free' senatorial by-election in Borno State which is a high-point of insurgency in the country, but the security agencies saw no reason to call-off the election. "It is, therefore, lamentable to hear from these same security agencies that the election cannot be held in a state where in less than 24 hours, the president and all the APC leaders and members had an uninterrupted rally," the statement observed. PDP added that it was taken aback that the advice came only a day after the president attended the APC mega rally in Benin City, Edo State capital. "We hope that this advice from the security agencies are not in concert with the APC of having seen the indices of losing the Edo State Gubernatorial Election to the PDP," the party wondered. PDP, however, called on

its members, supporters and voters in Edo State to remain law abiding, and urged the international community to be aware of "this calculated attempt at scuttling our hard earned democracy." Also, the Edo State chapter of the PDP has condemned the plan to postpone the election, describing it as " a despicable connivance" with the security agencies. In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, the PDP said the action by the APC was borne out of fear of imminent defeat at the poll, pointing out that unfortunately for it, the APC was only postponing the doomsday. According to the statement, "Edo PDP has condemned in very strong terms and brings to the attention of the general public, especially the good people of Edo State, a grand plan by APC to rig Edo elections through de-

spicable connivance with security agencies whose questionable security report INEC has acted upon to postpone the elections. "The security agencies, in their report, were talking about planned attacks on densely populated areas during the Sallah celebrations on September 12 and 13; whereas Edo election is on September 10. "APC, Governor Oshiomhole and his proxy, Godwin Obaseki, knew and still know that Edo people are ready to vote them out and they have simply devised a strategy to prolong the process so that, in their calculation, PDP will be financially stressed and unable to sustain its electioneering. "What APC and its leaders do not realise is that the liberation movement is beyond Ize-Iyamu and the PDP; it is a statewide consciousness; it is a defining idea and movement whose time has come, as the future is now."

NEWS Extra

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Military invades Ijaw communities, searches for Tompolo Ola James WARRI

cores of military men yesterday invaded Warri and some neighbouring Ijaw communities in search of a former militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo. That action took place soon after it was announced that his father, Chief Thomas Ekpemupolo had died. He was aged 84. The military men were apparently expecting that they would find Tompolo in the vicinity following the death. The military, which were deployed to the communities apparently to ar-

rest the fleeing ex-militant leader embarked on houseto-house search for several hours. New Telegraph gathered that the sudden appearance of the military caused tension in which residents are deserting their various communities. The military men invaded Krutiu, Okerekoko and adjoining Ijaw communities, ostensibly to arrest the fleeing ex-militant leader. Ekpemupolo reportedly passed on early yesterday morning at a private hospital, known as Lily Clinic, in Warri, after a brief illness. Confirming the sad event, a close family source, Paul Bebenimibo, said the 84-year-old man

died as a result of injuries sustained during the military expeditions into his community in Gbaramatu Kingdom recently. Bebenimibo, who is Tompolo's spokesman, also recalled that the former militant leader, who is currently in hiding, had made a mention of an injury his father sustained when soldiers invaded his home in Kurutie. Another close family source, who confirmed the death of the octogenarian, said his health situation had been compounded by the rough experience he was subjected to during the military invasion as he was being moved from place to place. ''He died after 5a.m. at Lily Clinic in Warri. He should be over 80 years.

He's been sick for a while now, a couple of months, even before the invasion. It was not that serious. You know the old age kind of sickness, but with all the tension and all that because he was in the village then.” According to him: "He went through some stress then because they were being taken from Kurutie to Kunukunuma, from Kunukunuma to Warri because he was not sure of his safety; whether he would be arrested. So, he had to be running from one village to the other in the riverine area before he was finally moved to Warri. ''About two months ago, he had a problem with one of his legs, which they had to amputate. He finally gave up the ghost

L-R: President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; daughter of the Crown Prince of Benin Kingdom, Princess Oghogho Eheneden Erediauwa; Crown Prince of Benin Kingdom, HRH Eheneden Erediauwa; Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole; and former Ondo State governor, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, during Dangote's visit to Erediauwa in Edo State…yesterday

this morning”, the source further said. Reacting to the death of the Ijaw chief, a Gbaramatu community leader from Kokodiagbene, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, described the development as a shock to the people of Gbaramatu Kingdom.

INEC bows to Police, DSS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

In a statement jointly signed by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Don Awunah, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), as well as Mr. Garba Abdullahi of the DSS, the agencies acknowledged the statutory responsibility of the INEC in conducting elections in the country. They, however, noted that national security will not be compromised on the altar of elections. It was their considered view that the shifting of the much-anticipated poll will enable them deal decisively with the imminent threat. "The Nigeria Police and Department of State Services, wish to inform the general public that credible intelligence availed the agencies indicate plans by insurgent/extremist elements to attack vulnerable communities and soft targets with high population during the forthcoming Sallah celebrations between 12th and 13th Sep-

Troops arrest suspected militant leaders –Army

lBoko Haram commander nabbed selling sheep Emmanuel Onani Abuja

he Nigerian Army has announced the arrest of two suspected militant leaders of the Otugas Fire Force, Mr. Gabriel Ogbudje, as well as a member of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), Mr. Isaac Romeo. This followed the arrest of a suspected Boko Haram commander in Yobe State, whose name had appeared on the Army's list of wanted kingpins of the sect. The disclosures were made in separate statements by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman. According to Usman, Ogbudje, who is alleged to be the leader of the Otugas Fire Force group said to have codenamed a parallel operation as "Operation Crocodile Tears", allegedly masterminded the bombing of the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC)/ Shoreline major delivery trunk within Ogo-Oteri

last month. His group was also responsible for the latest threat to attack Utorogu Gas Plant. Like Ogbudje, the Army disclosed that Romeo, who it said is a "kingpin" of the NDA, goes by the pseudonym "G2". He was apprehended by a team comprising the Army, Navy, Air Force, as well as operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA). "Troops of 4 Brigade Nigerian Army have arrested a suspected national economic saboteur, one Mr. Gabriel Ogbudje (an exmilitant leader), also the alleged leader of the "Otugas Fire Force", a militant group threatening to attack Utorogu Gas Plant. “He was alleged to be responsible for the recent act of economic sabotage perpetrated on NPDC/Shoreline major delivery trunk line within Ogo-Oteri general area on August 26. "The suspected militant, who was trailed, was arrested by troops along Agbor-Abraka road, Edo

State on Tuesday, September 6. He has been on the run since he was declared wanted because of his public declaration as the leader of the militant group, "Otugas Fire Force", and his subsequent declaration of the threat codenamed "Crocodile Tears" while the Brigade was engaged on the military field training exercise nicknamed "Operation Crocodile Smile". "Gabriel was arrested along with his accomplice, Mr. Elvis Dweller Ejus. Both suspects were handed to Operation Delta Safe for further interrogation and subsequent handing over to the relevant security agency for prosecutions," Usman said. On the suspected NDA "kingpin", the DAPR noted that: "Please recall also that troops of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, in conjunction with Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Air Force and covert operatives of the Defence Intelligence Agency, arrested a suspected kingpin of the Niger Delta Avengers, Isaac Romeo, that goes by the appellation of "G2" in

their terrorist camp. "He was arrested along with two other persons; Mr. Lawson Samson and an elderly man, Mr. Iyang Ekpo in Calabar, Cross State while driving in a vehicle with registration number, CRS 86 AO1 on Saturday, 3rd September 2016. The arrest followed painstaking efforts and tracking of the militant who was in the state to perpetrate further criminal activities of sabotaging critical infrastructures. "All the suspects are currently being interrogated." In a related development, the Army said one Muhammed Bulama, a suspected Boko Haram commander on the wanted list, was arrested on September 6, in Yobe State, as he rode on a horseback. The suspect was apprehended alongside two others, as they made their way to the market, to sell some sheep. During interrogation, he was said to have confessed rearing livestock for the sect, even as he confirmed his photograph on the wanted list.

According to him, “The news came to us as a shock because he was a great gem. We didn't expect to lose him at these trying times. We pray for courage and fortitude for his immediate family. We sympathise with his immediate family.”

The statement read: "The Boko Haram suspect on the wanted list number 105, Muhammed Bulama, has been arrested by troops on Tuesday, September 6 in Yobe State. "Bulama was arrested along side with two other suspected Boko Haram terrorists; Ardo Abba Muhammed (elder brother to Bulama as claimed) and Muhammadu Kaigama, in Azare community, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, with the help of the local vigilantes in the town. "They were arrested riding on horseback and bicycle, shepherding some sheep towards market. During preliminary investigation, the suspected terrorist personally confirmed his photograph on the wanted list and further revealed that he specialised on rearing animals for the terrorist group."

The number of English top-flight teams that broke their own transfer records in 2016. Source: Bbc.com

tember, 2016. "Edo State is amongst the states being earmarked for these planned attacks by the extremist elements. "The public would recall that similar threats were issued during the May Labour Day and Democracy Day celebrations as well as the Eid-el-Fitr holidays in July, 2016. However, the security agencies were able to decisively disrupt and thwart the insurgents’ plan. In the same vein, while election is important, the security agencies cannot allow the peace of the country to be disrupted and we will continue to remain vigilant and ensure consolidation of the successes gained in the current counter-insurgency fight. "It is in regard of these that we are appealing to INEC, which has the legal duty to regulate elections in the country, to consider the need for possible postponement of the date of the election in Edo State in order to enable security agencies deal decisively with the envisaged terrorist threats," the joint statement read. While acknowledging the inconvenience the postponement might cause, the statement stressed the need to allow security agencies discharge their mandates, without let or hindrance. It said: "While the Police/DSS remain mindful of the inconveniences this request may cause the various political stakeholders, it is our strong resolve that security agencies need not be distracted from ensuring a peaceful and secured Nigeria now and always." To this end, the Police and DSS assured the public "that the security agencies will continue to remain focused and committed and are being enjoined to remain vigilant," adding that "the attention of the security agencies should be drawn to any observed unusual movements or actions by groups or individuals in their neighbourhoods."

£1,165m

The total amount spent by Premier League clubs on transfer in the summer of 2016. Source: Bbc.com

NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Recession: Council of States approves Buhari economic policies

...confirms Idris appointment as IGP ...appoints commissioners for INEC, NPC Anule Emmanuel Abuja

he National Council of States (NCS) has endorsed measures put in place by the Muhammadu Buhari administration to revive the nation's dwindling economy. NSC, presided over by President Buhari, also yesterday ratified the appointment of Ibrahim Kputum Idris as substantive Inspector-General of Police (IGP). The ratification of the IGP was followed by confirmation by the Police Council, which also met after the NCS meeting in the presidential villa. Briefing State House Correspondents after the two meetings, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, said council was briefed by the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, on the state of the economy.

Ambode said: "The council was also briefed on the state of the economy. The Minister of State from the Ministry of Budget and Planning actually made a presentation to council on the ways and manner in which the Federal Government is approaching the way to rescue the recession path that we are going through." Membership of the Council of State include the Vice President, former heads of states, former Chief Justices of Nigeria, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Head of Service of the Federation and governors of the 36 states. According to Ambode, "Council was confident and also approved the measures the Federal Government is putting, in ensuring that Nigeria goes on the path of recovery as quickly as possible." Nigeria's economy has been confirmed by the

Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to be in recession. According to Ambode, "Suggestions were made by council members. It was also resolved that those suggestions be imputed to whatever it is that the Federal Government is doing in order for us to fast track to recovery. “Council agreed that there was good focus on the diversification of the economy, especially with regards to agriculture, solid mineral development as well. “Some of the measures being taken to get the country out of the current recession by the Federal Government include the introduction of the flexible foreign exchange

policy, development of the agriculture and solid mineral sectors, as well as job creation initiatives.” Speaking on the confirmation of the IGP, the Jigawa State governor, Abubakar Badaru, explained that there was unanimous decision on retaining Idris for the police job. He said: "There was almost unanimous acceptance of his confirmation. So, the Police Council do resolve to confirm the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris. "Most of the comments received proved to us that the IGP is of impeccable character and we expect him to conduct himself as such. We believe he is very honest and transparent. "We also believe he will continue to be honest and

do his best for the country.” Council also yesterday approved six new National Commissioners for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and five commissioners for the National Population Commission (NPC). Ambode, who briefed on this, said: "We deliberated on the appointment of six national commissioners for INEC. "You know, INEC is supposed to have 12. We had earlier approved six sometimes last year and additional six were actually approved today. And those six represents six nominees from the six geopolitical zones. "You may wish to know that we approved five new commissioners for NPC in addition to what was actu-

These poor facilities have also not helped in rating Nigeria highly when it comes to global airports rating. This much was confirmed by the Managing Director of FAAN, Saleh Dunoma, last year when he told the Senate Ad hoc Committee on Aviation that obsolete nature of most of the facilities and equipment at the nation’s airports was responsible for the poor rating the nation’s airports got from an international travel agency. Expressing his disappointment, Sirika said with the right facilities at the airports, Nigeria’s yearly traffic could be as high as 50 million, adding that many airlines that would have loved to come are delaying their decisions. His words: “We cannot grow our airports with the way things are right now. Our airports are in pitiable situation. Jumbo planes like A380 cannot use our airports. Today, we are doing 15 million passengers, but with the right facilities and the right things in place, we can do 50 million traffic yearly. “Research has shown that about 40 per cent of travellers like to transit in good airports. The Dubai and Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam are good examples. Dubai Duty Free is worth over $1.2 billion.” He stated that this has informed the decision of government not to put

money in the sector, adding that in most economies, the private sector is the engine of growth. According to him, the only option left is for government to concession the aerodromes, starting with the big four. The big four airports are those in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano. Government has gone far in its bid to concession them for efficiency and to boost revenues from both aeronautical and non-aeronautical. He was quick to say that government was concessioning and not privatising the airports against insinuations that it had already privatised them. The minister stated that there is the need to think of aviation as money-spinner, with potential to heavily contribute to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He disclosed that government has concluded plans to have an aircraft maintenance facility in the country that would be private sector-driven, lamenting that aviation has management problem. “The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria since 1964 has not developed beyond what it is. We need to produce aviation managers. We need to have another aviation university to develop our sector. These are not grandiose. They are achievable and can be finished within four years.”

14,893

The number of refugees/people in refugee-like situation in Ghana at the beginning of 2010. Source: Blatantworld.com

L-R: Premier of Western Australia, Colin Barnett MLA; Kenyan Minister of Mines, Mr. Dan Kazungu and Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, at a dinner the Premier hosted in honour of visiting African ministers of mines at the Africa Down Under (ADU) Conference, in Perth Australia... yesterday.

Minister: Nigeria’s airports in pitiable state CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

ally approved for INEC.” Among the newly appointed INEC commissioners are Mohammed Haruna (North-Central), AVM Ahmed Tijani Mu'Azu rtd (North-East); Abubakar Nahuca (North-West); Professor Okechukwu Ibanu (South-East); May Agbamuche Mbu (SouthSouth) and Dr. Adekunle Ladipo Ogunmola (SouthWest). The NPC commissioners are Dr Eyitayo Oyetunji (Oyo), Barr. Patricia Iyaya (Benue); Engr. Benedict Ukpong (Akwa Ibom); Dr. Halu Bala (Kebbi), and Gloria Isofo (Bayelsa).

Recession: Buhari must rejig cabinet –Onayekan lHuman trafficking: Kalu Foundation partners Caritas Anule Emmanuel Abuja

he Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, has challenged President Muhammadu Buhari to engage best brains into his government in order to bring Nigeria out of the current economic recession. Onaiyekan stated this yesterday night at a dinner hosted for Caritas members from across Africa by former governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu in Abuja. Speaking to reporters after the event, the Cardinal said Nigeria was presently in an emergency situation, which needs urgent actions from government. According to him, what the country was going through was a matter of significant reduction in income, which could have come at any time. He said: "The advice I have is this, whoever is in charge of Nigeria today, even if it were Jonathan

or PDP, they would have to still face this problem that we are now facing. It is a question of arithmetic and not politics anymore. "Given the situation we are in, almost an emergency situation, I will hope government will try and broaden its mind to try and bring in good minds as we can, irrespective of where they come from, what political party they belong to and whatever religion they belong to.” Onaiyekan urged Buhari to consider it important to get Nigeria's best brains who are rather contributing to the development of other economies around the world. "Let them make it a major concern to bring the best brains we can get in Nigeria to tackle this problem and put politics aside and all kinds of sectional feelings because you cannot solve Nigeria's problem by any sectional way. "I don't know whether Mr. President is doing that. But if he is not, he should do much more of

it, because there are many brilliant Nigerians, some are solving other people's problems out there. "You are not calling them, we need them all home, we are in recession, in an emergency. "We cannot forget far numerous Nigerians who are doing very well and serving their countries where they are in Europe and America contributing to the development of the those economies and sending money back home," he stressed. Speaking at the event, Kalu disclosed that his Foundation, the Orji Kalu Foundation, was partnering Caritas Africa to check increasing cases of human trafficking in the continent and Nigeria. The dinner came a few hours after the Catholic Bishop's conference, which ended in Abuja. The former governor explained that his foundation would build a synergy with Caritas Nigeria in the areas of checking human trafficking, health and oth-

er areas that will improve the lives of citizens. "I have already told the Cardinal that the Kalu Foundation will build a synergy with Caritas Nigeria in doing things on trafficking, in health and other areas that will build a new society," he said. The society needs help and we will continue to give assistance because it is our duty to give back whatever we have to the less privileged." National Director, Caritas Nigeria, Fr. Evaristus Bassey, in his remark, explained that Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provided a platform to address issues of trafficking in Nigeria. Among dignitaries who attended the private dinner were Ambassador of Brazil, Martin Brennan; Ambassador Charge d' Affairs of the United States of America, Nadan Goren; Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Israel, Sean Hoy; Ambassador of Ireland, Shawn Kohi; and National Director Uganda of the International Justice Mission (IJM).

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Central Bank of Nigeria www.cbn.gov.ng In furtherance of the transparency and full disclosure stance of the Central bank of Nigeria, the Monetary Policy Committee has decided that henceforth the lending rates obtainable in all Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) be made public to guide business decisions. Consequently, find below the applicable rates for each of the DMBs as at September 2, 2016. The rates will also be available on the website of the Central Bank of Nigeria. Average Deposit and Lending Rates as at September 2, 2016 Deposit Rate S/N

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

NAME OF BANK

Access Bank Citi Bank Nigeria Coronation Merchant Bank Diamond Bank Ecobank Nigeria FCMB Fidelity Bank First Bank of Nigeria FBN Merchant Bank FSDH Merchant Bank Guaranty Trust Bank Heritage Bank Keystone Bank Ltd Rand Merchant Bank Nig. Ltd Skye Bank Stanbic IBTC Bank SunTrust Bank Limited Standard Chartered Bank Sterling Bank Union Bank United Bank for Africa Unity Bank Wema Bank Zenith Bank

Demand Savings Deposit Deposit Ave.Int Rate 0.07 1.20 0.44 0.01 0.79 3.00 0.70 0.24 1.42 0.52 0.50 0.06 0.75 0.59 0.50

Lending Rate Time Deposit

Ave.Int Rate 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 3.60 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 2.00 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 3.60 4.20 3.60

Ave.Int Rate 7.41 6.20 11.79 6.04 6.30 10.89 8.00 9.05 12.01 10.75 6.69 11.00 9.80 10.05 10.59 6.57 11.20 10.69 6.03 7.30 6.00 9.00 8.73 7.00

Agriculture Prime

Max.

7.00 19.00 14.00 14.00 20.00 6.00 6.00 9.00 14.00 25.00 19.00 9.00 5.50 21.00 18.00 7.00 26.50 7.00 24.00 9.00 19.00

25.00 22.00 24.00 22.00 27.00 26.50 28.00 27.00 20.00 28.00 30.00 28.00 28.00 21.00 25.00 26.00 26.50 25.00 30.00 25.00 20.00

Mining & Quarrying Prime 19.00 14.00 17.00 21.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 16.00 19.00 28.00 16.00 18.00 19.00 26.50 24.00 24.00 19.00

Max. 22.00 24.00 25.00 24.00 21.00 28.00 27.00 16.00 30.00 31.00 27.00 25.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 24.00

Deposit Rate S/N

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

NAME OF BANK

Access Bank Citi Bank Nigeria Coronation Merchant Bank Diamond Bank Ecobank Nigeria FCMB Fidelity Bank First Bank of Nigeria FBN Merchant Bank FSDH Merchant Bank Guaranty Trust Bank Heritage Bank Keystone Bank Ltd Rand Merchant Bank Nig. Ltd Skye Bank Stanbic IBTC Bank Suntrust Bank Limited Standard Chartered Bank Sterling Bank Union Bank United Bank for Africa Unity Bank Wema Bank Zenith Bank

Demand Savings Deposit Deposit Ave.Int Rate 0.07 1.20 0.44 0.01 0.79 3.00 0.70 0.24 1.42 0.52 0.50 0.06 0.75 0.59 0.50

Ave.Int Rate 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 3.60 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 2.00 4.20 4.20 4.20 4.20 3.60 4.20 3.60

Oil & Gas Prime 16.00 19.00 14.00 17.00 19.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 8.62 15.00 9.50 25.00 19.00 28.00 16.00 18.00 19.00 26.50 19.00 24.00 29.00 19.00

Max. 26.00 22.00 24.00 25.00 28.00 29.50 28.00 28.00 17.52 23.00 23.00 28.00 30.00 31.00 27.00 25.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 29.00 25.00

Manufacturing Prime 7.00 19.00 14.00 17.00 18.00 7.00 19.00 20.00 15.75 15.00 11.50 25.00 19.00 14.30 28.00 12.50 18.00 19.00 26.50 19.00 24.00 29.00 19.00

Max. 26.00 22.00 24.00 25.00 24.00 26.50 28.00 28.00 19.00 23.00 23.00 29.00 30.00 17.25 31.00 27.00 25.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 29.00 23.00

Real Estate & Const Prime 12.00 19.00 14.00 17.00 20.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 19.00 15.00 13.00 25.00 19.00 20.10 28.00 16.00 18.00 19.00 26.50 24.00 24.00 29.00 19.00

Max. 26.00 22.00 24.00 25.00 28.00 24.50 28.00 27.00 19.72 23.00 22.00 29.00 30.00 20.10 31.00 26.00 25.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 30.00 25.00

Lending Rate Time Deposit Ave.Int Rate 7.41 6.20 11.79 6.04 6.30 10.89 8.00 9.05 12.01 10.75 6.69 11.00 9.80 10.05 10.59 6.57 11.20 10.69 6.03 7.30 6.00 9.00 8.73 7.00

General Comm. Prime

Max.

12.00 19.00 14.00 17.00 17.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 15.00 12.00 25.00 19.00 27.00 13.75 18.00 19.00 26.50 24.00 24.00 29.00 19.00

26.00 22.00 24.00 26.00 28.00 30.00 28.00 27.00 23.00 24.00 31.00 30.00 31.00 28.00 25.00 27.00 29.00 29.00 30.00 30.00 28.00

Mortgage Prime

Max.

13.00 14.00 17.00 17.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 13.00 27.00 19.00 28.00 16.00 6.00 20.90 19.00 26.50 24.00 24.00 29.00 19.00

25.00 24.00 25.00 26.75 19.95 28.00 30.00 24.00 28.00 30.00 31.00 26.00 6.00 21.90 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 29.00 24.00

Transp. & Comm. Prime 13.00 19.00 14.00 17.00 18.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 14.48 15.00 10.90 25.00 19.00 12.58 28.00 16.00 6.00 18.00 19.00 26.50 19.00 24.00 29.00 19.00

Max. 26.00 22.00 24.00 25.00 28.00 23.50 28.00 27.00 22.00 23.00 21.00 30.00 30.00 18.50 31.00 27.00 6.00 25.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 31.00 26.00

Fin. & Ins. Prime 10.00 19.00 14.00 17.00 21.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 19.00 15.00 16.00 25.00 19.00 15.20 28.00 13.75 18.00 19.00 26.50 19.00 24.00 29.00 19.00

Max. 26.00 22.00 24.00 25.00 28.00 25.50 28.00 27.00 19.00 23.00 20.00 28.00 30.00 15.20 31.00 27.00 18.50 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 29.00 25.00

Govt. Prime 8.00 14.00 17.00 17.00 17.50 19.00 19.00 14.00 12.50 11.00 19.00 9.00 14.00 6.00 16.00 19.00 26.50 24.00 24.00 29.00 19.00

Max. 18.00 24.00 23.00 21.00 23.00 28.00 28.00 16.00 18.00 11.00 30.00 28.00 24.00 24.00 16.00 27.00 26.50 29.00 30.00 28.00 25.00

These are the interest rates banks charge the public on loans and advances. It reflects the cost of borrowings and also includes all charges and commissions levied by banks. For further information, please call: 07002255226 Signed:

Management

NEWS | national

thursday, september 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Obasanjo asks G20 to tackle illicit financial outflow Wale Elegbede

ormer President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on the G20 nations to help fight tax evasion, intensify efforts to fight money laundering and strengthen tax disclosure requirements for international organizations operating in Africa. The G20, which is an international forum for the governments and central bank governors from 20

major economies, recently ended its 2016 summit in the city of Hangzhou, China, last Monday. Obasanjo, in an article written to the summit and published at the website of the project syndicate G20, said the summit should help close Africa’s energy-financing gap – estimated at $55 billion per year through 2030 – in support of the continent’s renewable-energy production. The article reads: “To

Save us from total collapse, airline operators tell FG Chukwu David Abuja

s the economic recession begins to hit both public and private sectors of the economy, Airline operators in Nigeria yesterday, cried out to the Federal Government to bail them out to prevent them from imminent collapse. The operators, who made the demand at an emergency interactive session with the Senate Committee on Aviation, asked the government to grant them Special Intervention Fund to remain afloat in business. Speaking on behalf of the operators under the aegis of Airline Operators Association of Nigeria, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Arik Airline, Chris Ndulue, noted that the present economic environment in the country has made their operations to move from bad to worse, saying, "the economic situation as it is today, is suffocating us out of operation". According to him, apart from Aero contractor airline and another one presently under distress, two other airlines might also follow suit, if urgent intervention was not made

by the government in form of direct Special Intervention Fund to the Aviation Sector. He mentioned high interest rate of 24 per cent on bank loans, worsening exchange rate of Naira to dollar and multiple charges from various regulatory agencies as problems running them out of business. He said: "There are a lot of economic indicators that have made business more difficult, which are now manifesting in the ability of the airlines to continue to operate. "There are many problems, so, many problems. We are operating in an industry that has very little profit margin. For a start, if you have to borrow money and you have to pay 24 per cent, and you don't make a margin of 24 per cent, it means that you will find it very difficult to pay back the debt. And there is a limit to what you can do in terms of being able to manage the debt. These fundamentals are the things we need to address. "The last time we were here at the Senate, the Central Bank of Nigeria was here too, and it was the CBN that made it clear to everybody that the intervention fund earlier granted was not for the airlines.

NCC spends N10bn on emergency communication scheme Clem Khen-Ogbena Abuja

he Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has disclosed that it has so far spent N10billion in initiating and funding the Emergency Communication Scheme, involving the use of special numbers among specific security organisations in the country. The NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Prof. Umar Danbatta, who made the disclosure yesterday, when the Foreign Defence At-

taches, under the aegis of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), led by Commodore Abu Hassan visited the commission in Abuja, listed such security organisations to include the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Federal Road Safety Commission, Federal Fire Service and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corp. According to him, they are also referred to as the five emergency services providers with such special security numbers, one of which was 622.

make good on the summit’s theme – “Toward an innovative, invigorated, interconnected, and inclusive world economy” – G20 governments should focus on financial stability and sustainable growth in developed as well as developing countries, especially in Africa. “The G20 must commit to fighting tax evasion and to unraveling the murky system of tax havens and shell companies (brought to light earlier this year by the Panama Papers) used to pump money out of Africa. “According to the African Union’s High Level Panel on Illicit Flow, chaired by former South

African President, Thabo Mbeki, Africa loses more than $50 billion every year from illicit financial outflow. “G20 members should strengthen tax disclosure requirements, prevent the creation of shell companies, intensify efforts to fight money laundering, and establish public registries of company ownership. “The G20 and the OECD have already outlined measures to counter tax-avoidance methods such as base erosion and profit shifting. “These efforts should be accelerated, and the international community should support

African countries’ own efforts to reduce illicit financial outflow, especially through improper trade invoicing, and to strengthen tax and customs administration. The G20 owes Africa a credible and effective solution to this problem.” While urging the G20 countries to support African agriculture and fisheries, he stated that food production in Africa was currently underfunded, adding that the continent

22,000

The total area (in sq. km) of water of Uzbekistan. Source: Worldfactsandfigures. com

imports $35 billion worth of food products every year. “The G20 must help close Africa’s energyfinancing gap – estimated at $55 billion per year through 2030 – and support renewable-energy production on the continent. “Increasing Africa’s energy output would boost economic growth for African countries and, in turn, for the world economy at large. What’s more, developing Africa’s low-carbon energy sources now would allow it to avoid the carbon-intensive growth model adopted by rich countries and other emerging markets, especially in Asia.” L-R: Chairman, Sosaco Nigeria Limited, Mr. Francis Ogboro; Managing Director/ CEO, Mr. Shalesh Kumar and Special Guest of honour, Mr. Mathew Ogboro, during a product launch of Jago Milk ranges in Lagos. PHOTO: GODWIN IREKHE

Gemade asks Buhari to stop herdsmen's attack

We're not importing poisonous rice –Presidency

Chukwu David

Anule Emmanuel

ormer Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national chairman, Senator Barnabas Gemade, has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to prevail on security agencies to end the spate of killings in the country by herdsmen. Gemade, who made this demand in Abuja yesterday, lamented that

herdsmen had practically removed several communities in Benue State, particularly those in the Tiv land, through the orgy of killings and maiming carried out in the area by the nomadic cattle herders. He further pleaded with the President to direct the security forces fighting terrorists, cattle rustlers and armed herdsmen to double their efforts and tackle "armed herdsmen" killing innocent people in Benue and

Appolonia Adeyemi and Eleazar Nwanti

Thyroid problems linked to cardiac arrest deaths

Abuja

cientists have long known that thyroid problems occasioned by an imbalance of its hormones may be associated with subsequent heart problems, ranging from an irregular heartbeat to cardiovascular disease. Going by the findings of a new study published in the journal ‘Circulation’ on Tuesday, sudden cardiac death is now among list of potential heart ailments that could arise from thyroid problems.

A thyroid disease is a medical condition impairing the function of the thyroid. Different thyroid diseases include Hashimoto's thyroiditis, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. These diseases have a large range of symptoms and affect all ages. The hormones, thyroxine and triiodothyronine, help control many activities in the body, from how quickly you burn calories to how fast your heart beats. However, when the gland is underactive (a

Abuja

he presidency has denied reports that the Federal Government was currently importing Genetically Modified (GMO) rice into the country. Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Femi Adesina, in a statement, yesterday, described such allegations as uncharitable and unfair to the efforts by

condition called hypothyroidism, associated with too little thyroxine) or overactive (a condition called hyperthyroidism, associated with too much thyroxine), it can wreak havoc on the body. Reacting to the study, a research fellow in Endocrinology and Epidemiology at Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam in the Netherlands and lead author of the study, Dr. Layal Chaker said: "Our study suggests that persons with higher thyroid hormone levels, even within

government to boost the agriculture sector. Reports on social media had linked the government and Dangote group with a plan to ‘flood’ the country with genetically modified rice (GMO). According to Adesina, the Federal Government, in 2014, signed a $1billion Memorandum of Understanding, (MoU) for investment in integrated rice project with Dangote Industries Ltd.

what we consider the normal range of thyroid function, have a four-fold increased risk of sudden cardiac death compared to persons with lower thyroid hormone levels. "The risk factors that were known for sudden cardiac death were mainly the 'traditional' cardiovascular risk factors, including high cholesterol and high blood pressure.” However, it was not known that higher thyroid hormone levels could also be a risk factor for sudden cardiac death," she added.

News|NATIONAL

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

‘Ibru’s funeral arrangements out in two weeks’ Taiwo Hassan

he funeral arrangement for the late patriarch of the Ibru family, Olorogun Michael Ibru would be announced in two weeks’ time. Speaking with New Telegraph yesterday, one of his children, Obaro, explained that the funeral arrangements of his late father was still in the pipeline. On the late patriarch’s last moment, Obaro Ibru said: “As usual, he did his prayers before going to sleep and spent time with my elder sister, who devoted her life to him, at least, in the last seven years and was by his bedside at the time of his last breathe. So, his last moment was peaceful in his sleep. He didn’t suffer any reoccurring medical setback. He went peacefully and gracefully to meet his makers.” Obaro said that the late patriarch touched many lives and his teachings were second to none, as he inspired a lot of

lBuhari, Saraki, others mourn people from different walks of life. He described the late patriarch as a very good, humble man, who was fearless and industrious minded in his work and a complete fisherman. According to him, the late Ibru was an iconic figure in the development of Nigeria’s industrial sector, as he was pioneer of many industries in all the sectors of the country’s economy in the 50s. “He was a pioneer in many areas of the country’s industry. He was in heavy industries as well as farming, services and

telecoms. The good thing is that he covered various spectrum of industries and made his impact felt in all of them. Yesterday, eminent Nigerians continued to pay condolence to the family and extolled the virtues of the late business titan. Among the early callers that signed the condolence register yesterday included the Publisher of Vanguard Media Limited, owners of Vanguard Newspaper, Sam Amuka; Akure-born business man, Prince Lafor Olateru-Olagbegi and 17 others. Amuka wrote Amen, on the condolence regis-

ter, while Olateru-Olagbegi said: “Daddy was my role model. He was larger than life. We’ll surely miss him.” However, about 11 people signed the condolence register on Tuesday when Olorogun Michael Ibru’s death was made public. Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the death of Ibru. The President, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, condoled with the Ibru family and the government and people of Delta

State. He also extended condolence to the Urhobo people on the passage of their illustrious son and patriarch of the Ibru family. The President joined them in mourning the accomplished businessman whose edifying role in the corporate world and private sector in Nigeria would continue to inspire generations to come. Also, the President of the Senate, Senator Bukola Saraki, and his deputy, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, expressed deep sadness over the death of Ibru. Saraki, in a statement issued in Abuja

Widow of late Michael Ibru, Mrs. Cecilia, with the son of Felix Ibru, Votu, during a condolence visit to the family of late Michael Ibru in Lagos… yesterday.

-4.7%

PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI.

$1.08bn

The total amount of the Conglomerates sector of the Nigeria Stock Exchange for 2014 Q4. Source: Nigerian Stock Exchange

NPower: Nigerians kick as Korean firm makes short list to supply PCs

may not have been aware of the short listing. Contrary to the expectation of information communications technology (ICT) companies in the country to be offered the job, some staff in the office of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo allegedly took the unpatriotic

option of offering the job to the foreign firm for the supply of 500,000 computers to empower Nigerian youths in the Federal Governmentsponsored NPower project. A competent source said that the process ended effectively last Tuesday after which three firms, two

Fayemi woos foreign investors with three years tax holiday

he Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr Kayode Fayemi, yesterday offered prospective investors in the Nigerian mining sector three years tax holiday, as part of Federal Government’s incentives to serious investors. The tax holiday, according to the Minister, would commence from the date the investor commences mining operations in the country. Speaking at the opening session of the ongoing Africa Down Under Conference in Perth, Australia, Fayemi said the country was determined to returning stronger to the global ore

by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, described the late Ibru as a colossus and trailblazer, who impacted humanity tremendously and positively. He said: “Olorogun Ibru, as he was fondly called, was a pioneer of great repute who contributed immensely in entrenching private entrepreneurship and business development in Nigeria.” Also, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, in his condolence message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Uche Anichukwu, joined other well meaning Nigerians in mourning the passing on of late Ibru, describing his death as a big loss to the entire nation and Africa.

Make party interest supreme at polls – Adewale

The percentage by which the total number of Insurance Index of the NSE dropped from Jan. 2015 – Dec. 2015. Source: Nigerian Stock Exchange

he clandestine move by some Nigerians to favour a South Korean firm in supplying computers to drive Federal Government’s empowerment programme has triggered anger among local computer manufacturers, who believe the Federal Government

and mineral market and would drive the growth and development of the sector through the private sector. The Minister listed other incentives approved by the Federal Government for investors in the mineral and mining sector to include exemption from custom and import duties on mining equipment. Other incentive available to the foreign investors is that companies could be wholly owned by such investors. Fayemi also identified security as another major area the government was investing in, in order to ensure security of investment

as well as life and properties. “Our government has a renewed commitment to the improvement of security across mine site, logistic related security and general terrorism.” The Minister who presented graphical details of incentives obtainable in several other major mining countries, including Australia, USA, South Africa and Chile, told the audience, which comprised investors, operators and other allied professionals that Nigeria was offering more generous incentives, including favourable tax regime and royalties.

members of CCMON and the other a non-member but which represents Samsung of South Korea in Nigeria, were shortlisted in the prequalification process. Presidency sources said that three firms namely Brian Systems, Zinox and Softcom, were shortlisted in the bid process. While Brian and Zinox are members of CCMON, the third company is said to be fronting for Samsung of South Korea. And to make matters worse, the Samsung front has no assembly plant in Nigeria. It was further revealed that the South Korean firm was chosen against the hues and cries of local firms that such patronage of a foreign firm would further promote capital flight and worsen the dire economic situation in the country. Disturbed by the development, some members of the Certified Computers Manufacturers of Nigeria (CCMON), the umbrella body of indigenous computer manufacturers, raised the alarm of a surreptitious

move by some persons in the vice president’s office to shut out indigenous firms. They argued that giving the job to local firms was capable of lifting the status of local computer makers. They accused the office of the vice president of orchestrating a plot to award the contract to a foreign firm through its Nigerian proxy. Members of CCMON said it was possible that both President Muhammadu Buhari and the vice president may not be aware of the clandestine move to award the job to a Nigerian front that has no assembly plant. They revealed that in view of the present harsh economic climate, some members of CCMON had started retrenching their staff because they were not producing at full capacity, adding that giving a job of such magnitude to their members would have helped to mitigate the huge losses being incurred by the indigenous assemblers and therefore halt the job cuts.

s the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) prepares for some states and local council elections nationwide, Otunba Segun Adewale, has said the party would have significant victory if all interests within the party across the country buried their grievances and worked together as party faithful. The Lagos State factional Chairman of the PDP, said in a statement made available to New Telegraph yesterday, that the party remained the alternative to delivering the suffering masses of this country from the excruciating hardship and pains the All Progressives Congress (APC) has unfortunately inflicted on them through its policies and fake campaign promises. The PDP Chieftain said: “It is time we learnt from our past mistakes and forge a common front to ensure total victory for the party in all the coming polls starting from the Edo State gubernatorial elections on Saturday, September 10. This will indeed start to rebuild the confidence of Nigerians towards forming a new PDP led national government in 2019” Adewale, also known as Aeroland in business and political quarters, urged all with cases in courts to look beyond personal gains with a view to amicably resolving them and forging ahead as a united indivisible party. Adewale advised that the sufferings of Nigerians in the hands of this accidental government should be paramount in the minds of all party faithful “as there is absolutely no need to transfer our internal disagreements to the helpless masses.”

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

METRO

ABIODUN BELLO

...CRIME, CITY WATCH, COURTS

Hausa-Fulani clash leaves nine dead in Lagos

Temitope Ogunbanke and Taiwo Jimoh

t least nine people died yesterday during a clash between scrap dealers and cattle sellers at Oko-Oba Abattoir area of Lagos State. It was learnt that the scrap dealers, mostly Hausa, accused the ‘Seriki Fulani’ (the head of Fulani) of supporting the officials of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to demolish their shanties where they transact business, which falls within the territory of the corporation. The confrontation between the two sides started on Tuesday night but snowballed into a major conflagration yesterday. It was learnt that the hoodlums, numbering about 50, armed with axes, machetes, clubs and other dangerous weapons, stormed the market about 2a.m. yesterday and attacked the traders who had already slept in their various shops. They also looted the market, stole money and other valuables. The spokesperson for the Miyeti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Lagos chapter, Mr. Salisu Jikantoro, said it was not the Seriki Fulani who ordered the demolition of the scrap dealers’ shanties. He said: “The Seriki is not responsible for the demolition of their shanties. It is the NRC officials who came and said they wanted their land for offloading cows into the market. “Last Saturday when cows were brought in coaches, the NRC officials complained of lack of space. It was then they concluded that some of the shanties on their land would be demolished. But the action of the NRC officials did not go down well with the scrap dealers who marched to the office of the Seriki Fulani to express their grievances.” The Seriki Fulani was said to have advised the youth to comply with the officials and vacate the land, because the NRC is the rightful owner. “Instead, the youth went back and mobilised. They attacked the traders. They maimed, killed and looted,” Jikantoro added. The spokesman said about 20 of his members were pres-

ently lying critically ill in the hospital, battling to stay alive. Also six vehicles belonging to the executives of the association were damaged by the irate youth. He added: “We also lost about N300 million to the clash which has paralysed business activities in the market.” It was learnt that while the Fulani lost six people, three persons died on the side of the Hausa. At the office of the Seriki Hausa, one of the secretaries, who identified himself simply as Abdulahi, described the clash as very unfortunate. He said: “We lost about three of people to the fight. The clash was just a little misunderstanding between some youths. Investigation is ongoing on the matter. Our leaders have intervened and there is peace in the market now.” A trader, Mr. Haruna Ismail, told our correspondent that the crisis had paralysed business activities. He said: “We are all idle now. We are just sitting down, doing nothing. None of us is allowed to slaughter a cow in the abattoir. Now we cannot sell. Government should come to our aid and provide us security because we cannot afford to lose our life investment.” A phone seller, Abubakar Umar, told our correspondent that he was sleeping when the hoodlums attacked about 2a.m. He said: “I saw the hoodlums, armed with different weapons,

One of the victims

rush into the market. They started to attack people. The hoodlums stole over 100 phones in my shop. We want security in the market. I don’t know where to start from now.” A photographer, who identified himself simply as Rabiu, said it was a terrible experience. He said: “I was sleeping when they came. They ordered me out

of my house and collected my money. But some of them who know me asked their colleagues to spare me. They said that I was nice to them. That was how God spared my life.” The Iyaloja of the market, Mrs. Oluremi Adewusi, urged the police to patrol the market on a daily basis to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

Guard detained as robbers raid Basketmouth’s home Juliana Francis

olice in Lagos yesterday arrested and detained a security man guarding the home of the ace comedian, Bright Okpocha, otherwise known as Basketmouth. Robbers had in the early hours of the day stormed Basketmouth’s house at Lekki area of Lagos. The bandits were said to have collected his phones, two I-pads, shoes, jewellery and bags. They also removed the CCTV while going. He was robbed barely one hour after he returned from the club. It was gathered that his security guard bolted after he realised

that bandits had invaded their home. A police source said: “He came home about 1:30a.m. and by 2:15a.m., the robbers came. It appeared his home has a central door. He left the door open for his

Basketmouth

security guard to carry out one or two duties. It was through that door they came into his home.” But the security guard was arrested because he fled and did not alert the residents or the police. Attempts to get Basketmouth were abortive as his phone was switched off. The police source, however, said Basketmouth has asked the police to release the security guard because he and his wife trusted the man. It was learnt that police reached Basketmouth’s home about five minutes after they were alerted. “But the robbers had long gone before we were alerted. When asked why Basketmouth did not

abiodun.bello@newtelegraphonline.com 08023938212

She said: “We have lost millions of naira to the clash. We want peace in the market, because this is the place where we make ends meet and get the money to feed our family members. We are sick and tired of the clash.” It was learnt that some of the hoodlums invited their colleagues from other parts of the state to assist them in the fight. Witnesses said that AK47 rifles, bows and arrows, machetes and daggers were freely used during the fight. A source said: “The fight was as a result of demolition of some shops and shanties by the government. The Hausa were not happy about the demolition because they felt they were mostly affected since shanties and shops belonging to Fulani were not demolished. They felt the demolition was carried out by the Fulani leaders for their trailers to have easy access to the market. “We don’t understand while two groups are fighting each other. They are both from the North and we believe that their leaders should have intervened to settle the crisis amicably. It is a pity that many people were killed and several people were injured.” Meanwhile, peace returned to the area about 11a.m. yesterday following the intervention of some security personnel. Policemen and soldiers were patrolling the market to prevent further breakdown of law and order. When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the clash. But the PPRO said it was only one person who died in the clash while four persons had been arrested. She said: “The report we have indicated that the crisis erupted as a result of a young Hausa girl beaten up by a Fulani man. The action did not go down well with the Hausa men which led them to seek revenge. This later degenerated to a serious fight and subsequent destruction of property.” call police earlier, he said he did not want a shootout.” His friend, another ace comedian, Bovi Ugboma popularly called Bovi, however, blew the story open on his Instagram. According to Bovi, Basketmouth and family were robbed at their home, but are safe and unhurt. Bovi said that his friend was robbed between the hours of 2a.m. and 4a.m. He added that the robbery was reported at the nearest police station. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Dolapo Badmus, confirmed the incident. She added: “The Commissioner of Police has directed that the case be transferred for further investigations.”

METRO

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Schoolboy, urchin drown in Bauchi, Cross River Nankpah Bwakan and Clement James

17-year-old student of Government Day Secondary School (GDSS), Jama’are, Lukman Lamara, on Tuesday got drowned in a river in Jama’are Local Government Area of Bauchi State. This came as a street urchin, identified simply as Daniel, has drowned while swimming with his friends in a drainage channel popularly called ‘Big Gutter’ in Calabar, the Cross River State capital. Sources said that when Lamara and his friend were returning from farm, the friend stopped at the river to catch fish while the deceased went home. Lamara, it was learnt, took his bath and then returned to the river to meet his friend. He, however, got drowned while trying to fish with his friend about 5p.m. The father of the deceased, Mallam Hassan Lamara, confirmed the incident. He disclosed the boy’s body was later recovered and buried, according to Islam injunction. Hassan said he received the news of his son’s death with stock. He described the deceased as very respectful, hardworking and always ready to learn. Lukman was among the 40 selected students from GDSS who attended media training on “Open Minds Nigeria,” organised by the Institute for War and Peace Reporting (IWPR). Another student, who also attended the three-month media training, said Lukman exhibited determination to acquire knowledge, was nice and kind to everyone. Daniel, who died yesterday, was one of the numerous street urchins in Calabar who had no home, parents or identifiable job. He was said to have joined the army of street boys last year. The boy, whose age was put at 10 by one of his colleagues, reportedly got drowned about noon while swimming with others in the lower part of the drainage at Atu Street, where the volume of water was said to have been high. “He did not know how to swim but those boys who came with him forced him into the water in the big gutter and he drank the water and died,” one of the urchins said. After his death, four of the older boys carried his body on their shoulders on Target Street. They took the body to the Hausa quarters called Bogobiri where arrangement was made for his burial.

Militants ambush policemen, kill sergeant Juliana Francis

police sergeant attached to Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Lagos State Police Command, was shot to dead yesterday by suspected militants who laid an ambush for him and his team at the New Haven Estate in Igbelaju area of Iba. The victim, Sergeant Solomon Esemuze, fondly called Sosoliso, was shot in the head. He died immediately on the spot. The militants were in military camouflage uniforms. When policemen re-enforced and returned fire for fire, the militants dived into water and allegedly swam towards the Ojo Military Cantonment. Esemuze’s death has dampened the morale of his colleagues. Many of them said they were shocked and saddened by his death. They described the deceased as a jovial and respectful policeman. The deceased was among a team of policemen deployed by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fatai Owoseni, to the Iba area of the state, about 11a.m. to repel militants’ incessant attacks on members of the community. The policemen were led by the Officer in charge of SARS and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Iba Police Station. According to a police source,

Esemuze

Owoseni deployed policemen to the area following a series of abductions of landlords in the estate. It was gathered that the kidnapping of landlords was so prevalent, that most house owners bolted, leaving their property and tenants. Before the landlords started fleeing, about three had already been abducted for ransom. On Monday, another set of militants, dressed in military uniform

stormed a particular apartment and attempted to kidnap a landlord. The landlord was, however, not around. The angry militants were said to have kidnapped the fleeing landlord’s two housemaids. The gunmen had earlier abducted a woman, identified only as Mrs. Nwaochei, from her residence before the Monday incident. Nwaochei regained her freedom on Monday after her family members paid an undisclosed sum of money. A police source said: “It was based on the constant attacks in that area that the commissioner ordered SARS men to go there. When they got there, they combed everywhere in the community, but found no traces of militants. “They were about to leave when some members of the community ran to tell them that the militants were around. As they embarked on another round of search, they ran into gunfire. The militants laid ambush for them. The shooting was heavy. The SARS men replied and also called for re-enforcement. The militants jumped into the river and escaped. Esemuze was killed in the ambush.” At least 20 SARS men were deployed to the area. But after the attack on the policemen, the area became flooded with over 100 policemen, including officials of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS). Esemuze’s body was deposited at the mortuary of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

Stealing is natural to me –Pickpocket Muritala Ayinla

teenager, Seun Jimoh, said yesterday that he used to steal about nine phones on a daily basis at Oshodi area of Lagos metropolis. Jimoh said he had talents for picking pocket. The 18-year-old suspected pickpocket

Blessed Hope celebrates eighth convention B

lessed Hope Faith Mission, Agege, Lagos, will this week celebrate her Annual Convention and Jesus Celebration, tagged: “The Man Called Jesus.” Several ministers of God are expected at the convention which begins today and ends on Sunday at Hope-Lifting Schools, 21, Fisher Street, Iloro-Dopemu, Agege. Activities lined up for the four-day programme include prayer retreat, seminar on evangelism, youth summit, power night, Jesus Celebration and thanksgiving. Explaining the theme of the programme, the General Superintendent of the church, Pastor Samuel Akano, made a reference to John 9 verses 10 and 11, where Jesus restored the eyes of a blind man. He said: “People should expect salvation, deliverance, miracles, breakthrough, healing and victory. “I want those coming to the programme with great expectations, they are not coming to meet the ministers but Jesus Christ and God will meet them at the point of their needs.”

Jimoh

was arrested by men of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) at Oshodi on Tuesday. Jimoh, who hails from Ondo State, also disclosed that he was an auto mechanic apprentice before he ran away to become a pickpocket. According to him, picking pocket was more lucrative. The suspect always looks neat. He wore brown jacket and trousers and clutched a handbag like a business executive, before his arrest. As at the time he was arrested, Jimoh had already stolen four mobile phones from unsuspecting commuters during morning rush period. It was learnt that the suspect usually operates at bus stops when people are rushing for buses. A police source said Jimoh was about to remove N18,000 from the pocket of a commuter when he was caught. “Unknown to him, two of his victims were on the lookout for him after suspecting him for being in custody of their missing phones. While standing at Oshodi under bridge, they spotted him

removing money from the pocket of a passenger, Gbenga Odeniyi. “At that point, his victims, Onuh Austine and Onesimus Paul, raised the alarm which made Jimoh to promptly drop the money and take to his heels but RRS operatives close to the scene chased and caught him,” the source said. After listening to all the accusations, requested the victims’ phone numbers which were dialled and they were found in Jimoh’s handbag. At the RRS’s headquarters, the suspect confessed to have stolen the two phones while the owners were rushing to board a bus. He said: “On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, I am always at Oshodi to pick pocket. I steal an average of eight phones on Mondays and maybe like nine phones on Fridays. I don’t really get more than five phones on Wednesdays. “I am an orphan. I was brought to Lagos by my uncle. He enlisted me in an automobile workshop but I ran away from there to Mushin where I honed my skills on how to pick pocket.

City Brief

Gowon, others mourn Ugoeze Ezeibe

er Royal Highness (HRH) Ugoeze (Ezinne) Cecilia Ihuocha (ChaCha) Ezeibe has died at 93 years. Ihuocha assumed a leadership position early in life and remained an inspiration and motivator to her community, Nsulu in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State. She was a great farmer

with vast expanse of palm plantation who devoted her time in the service of God and humanity. Ihuocha will be buried on October 8 after an allnight wake keep at her home, Umuomainta Nbawsi Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area. Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour from eminent Nigerians

among them former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon and his wife; Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu; Commissioner for Insurance, Alhaji Mohammed Kari; General David Jemibewon and Chief Chuku Wachuku and his wife. Others are Mr. Oye Hassan-Odukale of Leadway Assurance, Sir and Lady Marc Wabara, General

Lawrence Onoja and many others. She is survived by a host of children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and brothers among whom are Dr. Amadike Ezeibe, Navy Captain Umunnabuike Anthony Ezeibe, Azu & Ekeoma Ezeibe who are renowned lawyers, international consultants and insurance practitioners.

NEWS | national

thursday, september 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

N2.3bn fraud: Court admits NCC seals Nokia office for Orubebe to N10m bail illegal operation Tunde Oyesina Abuja

n Abuja High Court yesterday admitted a former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godsday Orubebe, to bail in the sum of N10 million. Orubebe is standing trial along two others over an alleged diversion of N2.3 billion. The court also granted bail in the sum of N20 million each to Oludare Alaba and Ephraim Zeri, Directors of Contract in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs. The trio were arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC). The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge. The trial judge, Justice Olukayode Adeniyi, in his ruling, ordered

$38m

Orubebe to produce one surety in the like sum and the surety must be a responsible Nigerian with evidence of three years tax payment and landed property within the FCT. The court, however, ordered Alaba and Zeri to also produce one surety each in like sum, who must be an assistant director in the civil service and land owner within the court jurisdiction. Justice Adeniyi further held that the sureties must depose to an affidavit of means. The court also held that the defendants should be in the custody of ICPC until their bail conditions were perfected. The court later adjourned till November 10 for trial. In the charge, the defendants were alleged to have diverted N2.3 billion meant for the dualisation of Section IV of the East-

The total pay (including salary/winnings & endorsements) of Philip Rivers (Football) for 2016. Source: Forbes.com

West Road. Orubebe allegedly circumvented a Federal Executive Council approval for the dualisation of the Eket-Oron Road, part of the East-West Road, which runs from Edo to Bayelsa. He was alleged to have instructed the contractor, Gitto Construction to rehabilitate instead of dualising the road as approved by the council. The defendants were also charged with conferring undue advantage on the construction firm when they caused the money meant for compensation to residents whose property were marked for demolition, paid to Gitto. Orubebe was also accused of making false statements to the ICPC claiming that the decision to rehabilitate the road rather than dualise it was taken after he had left office as a minister.

N147

The average price of Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol) of Ebonyi State in July 2016. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

Kunle Azeez

he Enforcement and Monitoring Unit of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) yesterday shut down the office of Nokia/ Alcatel in Lagos for failing to obtain prerequisite authorisation to run certain telecommunication-related services in the country. Nokia/Alcatel office is situated at CBC Towers, Lekki Phase I in Lagos State. Addressing newsmen shortly after the premises was sealed up, Head, Enforcement Unit of NCC, Mr. Salisu Abdul, said what Nokia ought to have obtained from the NCC was the sale and installation licence for the major category, which was category A, that would have cost barely N2 million. He added: "ln one of our monitoring activities, we discovered that Nokia had not obtained prerequisite authorisation to operate services in Nigeria. We have now come to visit them. As a matter of fair-

L-R: Project Manager, Equity Advocates, Mrs. Enio Ighalo; Gender Adviser, Search for Common Ground, Ene Ede; Managing Director/ Editor-In-Chief, New Telegraph Newspapers, Mrs. Funke Egbemode and Chief Executive Officer, YES Communications, Danjuma Ighalo, during a courtesy visit to the Corporate Office of New Telegraph Newspapers in Lagos…yesterday

GOC reiterates importance of training in military operations Flora Onwudiwe

he General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division of the Nigerian Army (NA), MajorGeneral Isidore Henry Edet, has reiterated the importance of training and the competition between Warrant Officers (WOs) and Senior NonCommission Officers (SNCOs) in the army. He said such was a sure bet for success in any military operation. General Edet spoke yesterday at the official opening of a four-day programme aimed at testing the proficiency of WOs and SNCOs of 81 Division on Obstacles

Crossing, Drill, Combat Swimming, Map Reading and Weapon Handling, held at the parade ground of 9 Brigade, Ikeja. He said: “The competition is about leadership at the lowest level, which is critical to the success of the Nigerian Army and indeed the military in any operation. “And so we have commanders, at the junior level, the warrant officers and non-commission officers, if they are physically fit and good in the use of weapons and their leadership traits are well developed, it means we are on our way to victory in any battle.

Sallah: FG declares Monday, Tuesday public holiday Emmanuel Onani Abuja

he Federal Government yesterday declared Monday, September 12 and Tuesday, September 13, as public holiday to mark this year's Eid-el-Kabir. Minister of Interior, Lt.Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd), who made the declaration in a statement by the Acting Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Muhammadu Maccido, charged Muslims and the general public to support efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration at redirecting the economy on the path of growth. The minister conveyed

the best wishes of the Federal Government to the people on the Eid-el-Kabir celebration. Dambazau said: “Government is aware of the present economic challenges the nation is facing, following the downturn in oil prices, and assures that government appropriates steps being taken to address them, especially through revitalizing the agricultural sector, the “Youth Empowerment Scheme” in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT), the “Change Begins with Me,” a value re-orientation programme and other “Social Intervention” programmes.

ness and transparency, we asked them to provide the licence we granted them. However, we discovered that they only applied for licence two or three months back and were yet to complete the process. "We all know Nokia has been in this country for a very long period of time and ordinarily, for a telecommunication entity to do telecommunication services in this country, it needs to have consulted NCC to obtain prerequisite authorisation licence, being the issuance of licence such as individual and class licences." According to him, NCC, being the sole regulator of telecommunication services in Nigeria, would not open the Nokia premises until the company

has obtained prerequisite authorisation licence to operate. He said it was also "a criminal offence for any company operating communication services in Nigeria not to obtain a licence." As such, Abdul said NCC has decided to seal the premises of Nokia until it obtains prerequisite authorisation, "which may also attract a fine," adding that there might be other things to be discussed at the management of NCC over the case. Speaking on the penalty for the offence, Abdul said the penalty depends on the number of years Nokia has operated without the required licence, which would be calculated on day-by-day basis.

FG, NIBSS partner to forestall funds’diversion Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

he Special Adviser to the President on Social Protection, Maryam Uwais, said the partnership between the Federal Government and the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS) to disburse government’s conditional cash transfer was to forestall any case of fraud in the programme. Speaking yesterday in Abuja at an interactive session organised by ActionAid with the civil society actors to serve as a third party in the monitoring of the Federal Government’s social protection programme, Uwais said over one million vulnerable poor households will receive the Federal Government’s stipend of

N5, 000 monthly as conditional cash transfer for one year, while additional 200,000 households will receive livelihood support of the World Bank. Conditional cash transfer is one of President Muhammadu Burahi’s administration’s social protection programmes, designed to cater for vulnerable poor Nigerians with a monthly stipend of N5, 000. The programme is yet to take off eight months into 2016 due to revenue constraint experienced in the 2016 budget. Giving an insight into the payment system, Maryam, wife of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Muhammed Lawal Uwais, said the programme would ensure that the money goes directly to the beneficiaries, adding that banks are liable for the entire transmission chain.

Recession: ‘FG, states must engage in food production’ Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

former Chief Economic Adviser to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, Prof. Ode Ojowu, yesterday urged the Federal Government to work with states and local governments in the area of food production as part of measures to overcome the recession facing the country. He gave the advice in Abuja at a one-day Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Media cluster meeting on ‘Buharimeter’ organised by the Centre for Democracy and De-

velopment (CDD) and the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA). Ojowu said it is known that food accounts for over 54 per cent of Nigerian households’ expenditure and that the extensive inequality among Nigerians makes using average assessment untenable. “If we want to talk about recession in this context, we should rather be calling it hunger and famine and I think there is lack of internal capacity to deal with this challenge. When we had the oil boom we spend and spend without investing and also we refused to save."

THURSDAY, September 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Paseda APC, PDP crises, blessing for UPN

Politics Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Barr Anselm Ojezua, in this interview with Cajetan Mmuta, speaks on the Edo State governorship contest and his party’s expectations

Your party and its governorship candidate, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, have toured the state to seek for support and votes ahead of this weekend’s election. What is your assessment of the people’s response? It has been very encouraging across board, everywhere we visited, we were well received by the traditional institution, party supporters, and then of course, the ordinary man on the street. I noticed that even in our rallies, people who are not necessarily members of our party got involved in the process, particularly at the community level because after rounding off our local governments tours, we still went back and started touring the communities within the local governments. That tour was very revealing and it gives me a lot of hope for victory. From the responses, what are the chances of your candidate in the election? Like I said, we were well received and in most of places we went to, our governorship candidate got endorsed which is even better than attempting to support. It happened in so many places, people were thrilled that we came to them. In so many communities, the people claimed that previously, no governorship candidate visited them and so they were quite appreciative of the fact that we were able to make it this time. That in my opinion will enhance our chances very greatly. If we were expecting to have a maximum of 50, now I am convinced we can have a victory you can call landslide. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed

FELIX NWANERI

GROUP PoLITICAL EDITOR nwanerif@yahoo.com

Mohammed Kwankwaso working against Ganduje’s success

13 14

Performance’ll decide Edo guber poll – Ojezua readiness for the conduct of the election though it has blamed political parties, and their supporters for some of the inconclusive elections witnessed in the country recently. How prepared is your party for the poll and what steps have you taken to ensure a hitch-free exercise? I am at times surprise when people put the inconclusive election syndrome solely at the doorstep of INEC. Inconclusive election as far as I am concerned is when a situation arises that makes it impossible for INEC to declare with certainty that the election has been won by a party. It is not the design of INEC but I think what leads to such situation is a combination of factors. One, is the conduct of the election, the other is the quality of security that is provided and finally the conduct of the parties themselves. So, it is wrong to put it squarely on the doorsteps of anyone of the three. If there is a failure in any, of course, it will lead to an inconclusive end. You don’t generalise by say it is INEC or it is purely on security; it could be any of them. So, it depends on circumstances but in Edo State, we do not have a history of inconclusive election and if the security agencies are able to lock down the state and make sure that the no movement rule is applied; if they make sure that people are screened and arms are not introduced surreptitiously into the process, it will create an atmosphere for a peaceful election. When that happens, the poll would be conclusive. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused your party of masterminding attacks in some areas of the state during the campaigns, particularly the one that happened in Auchi in Etsako West. How do you react to this allegation? On the contrary, we are the victims, we are the complainants and they have never complained. They have not even responded. In fact, I had to write to the Commissioner of Police in the case of Jattu because some of the attackers were identified. They didn’t do it in the secret; they did it brazenly and with impunity. In Jattu, we were the victims, our campaign vehicles were destroyed, our members were victimised, physically assaulted and we have the evidence. We are not a violent party and if you recall the attack that was made on the National Assembly some time ago, it was done by the PDP at a time they were in charge and the police had to turn the other eye but it cannot happen now. The police

Ojezua

now will be made to do their job because President Muhammadu Buhari will not support violence in any way, not even on behalf of our party and certainly not against our party. The PDP is insisting that your candidate, Obaseki, has no certificate apart from the affidavit he swore to. Why has he not come out to show the world the vital documents? I don’t think the law says he should present his certificates to the PDP. The PDP is not in a position to determine who presents what, that is the responsibility of INEC. And I can tell you that the same reason why Obaseki is not responding to all those petty talks is also the same reason why President Buhari did not respond when issues like that came up against him. What I want to draw your attention to is that while they are busy dwelling on issues of certificate, Obaseki is busy telling Edo people what he has in stock for them. They are dwelling on unnecessary issues because they have nothing to say. The PDP had the opportunity to preside the affairs of Edo State for 10 years but if you look around, there is not one legacy they can point to that the party left behind. But within the seven and half years of APC, you can see

a mammoth evidence of good governance. So, comparatively, there is no basis for comparison, it is night and day.

The PDP has nothing to show for its presence except massive looting

There is the fear that soldiers might be deployed for the conduct of Saturday’s election and the opposition parties have vowed to resist any attempt to use soldiers other than the conventional security outfits. What is your position on that? I am amused that PDP, which introduced soldiers into the electoral process, is taking such position. Can they approbate and reprobate? What are the issues that stand your party out as it goes into Saturday’s election? I told you that Edo State has a unique opportunity of having experienced the PDP for 10 years and the APC for eight years. Whereas the PDP has nothing to show for its presence except massive looting, APC has uncommon evidence even in a country that is in recession. The party has been able to pay salaries as and when due, raised the minimum wage and has continued to execute capital projects. What is the essence of government, is it not the greatest good to the greatest number of the citizens? That is what the APC has done and therefore that is what gives us the edge.

POLITICS

THURSDAY, September 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

PDP shows readiness for poll Cajetan Mmuta, Benin and Onyekachi Eze, Abuja

eaders and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, yesterday, demonstrated their readiness for Saturday’s governorship election as they organised the party’s one million man-march round Benin, the state capital. The march saw the PDP leaders and members through marching through major streets and roads in the state capital causing hours of gridlock as well as crippled commercial activities. The exercise was supervised by the Street-toStreet and Door-to-door

campaign group of the PDP candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu. The road show kicked off as early 8.00am after hundreds of party supporters had gathered at the Ikpoba slope campaign office of Ize-Iyamu as early as 7.00am. Speaking to the party supporters at the Kings Square at the end of the walk at about 2.00pm, a former speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon Festus Evea, commended the people for their resilience, assuring them that their efforts will not be in vain. He said: “You must know that you are walking for your future, when they promised change, we voted for them but now, cost of living has gone up, prices of fuel, kerosene, cement as well as food

Edo DECIDES

items like rice, garri and even salt have all gone out of the reach of the poor. Our people are dying of hunger, but now we are marching to change the Change.” Meanwhile, the PDP has advised eligible voters in Edo State not to repeat the mistakes of 2015, which put the nation in its present economic recession. The party also charged the Independent National

Electoral Commission (INEC) and security operatives to ensure absolute neutrality in the conduct of the election. In a statement by Mrs. Chinwe Nnorom, head of PDP’s Publicity Division, the party taunted the All Progressives Congress (APC) for its Tuesday’s mega rally in Benin City, Edo State capital, describing it as a “show of shame.” It said: “We watched with dismay the show of disgrace and embarrassment by the APC in their ‘Recession Rally’ in Benin City and wondered how the party will gather in front of the people they have impoverished with their high taxations, hunger, stagnation, poverty and insecurity, and still has such impudence to make the same empty

Landlord sacks tenants over support for APC Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

landlord in Edo State identified as Mr. David Agberemole, has reportedly issued quit notice to five tenants in his house in Uzea community in Esan North East Local Government Area of the state for their support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate, Mr. Godwin Obaseki against Pastor Osagie IzeIyamu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Some of the tenants – Sylvester Chukwuemeka, Christiana Okosun and Elizabeth Ogbeide – who narrated their ordeal, yesterday, said they have suffered untold hardship from their landlord for not supporting the PDP, which he belongs to. Okosun, who spoke in her native dialect (Esan) said: “We don’t have any problem, just party differences, he told us he wanted everyone in the house to support PDP because he is a member of the party but I refused. I told him that I

have been in APC for a very long time and that even if the PDP is buying me a car, I prefer to remain in APC and he said since that is my stand, I should consider myself evicted from his house.” Chukwuemeka, who revealed that his rent was up to date, said his landlord’s action negates the principle of fair play and justice. According to him, “I don’t understand why the landlord will just decide to drive us out of his house because we are not supporting PDP. I pay my rent regularly, so he was not fair to me. The state government should come to our aid because I don’t know when it became a crime to support a party.” Efforts to get Mr. Agberemole for his own side of the story was not successful as family members disclosed that he traveled out of town, but New Telegraph gathered that the Acting chairman of the state Board of Internal Revenue Service, Barr. Emmanuel Usoh, has doled out some bags of cement and cash to some of the victims to assist them start building their own houses.

Ekweremadu tasks FG over alleged police intimidation Apc supporters being screened at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, during the party’s mega rally on Tuesday. PHOTO: NAN

APC: PDP plotting to unleash mayhem, rig elections

he All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has raised alarm over an alleged plot by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to unleash violence and cause confusion in the state, so as to pave way for it to rig the gubernatorial election. The party in a statement said “no less than 500 militants from Delta State are being mobilised to critical areas of Edo State to carry out this evil plan using the waterways. The primary targets are Edo-North using the River Niger to access areas around Agenebode; Edo-South, via the Osse River; and Edo Central,

via Ilushi River.” Citing internal sources within the PDP, the APC also alleges that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members recruited by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to participate in the conduct of the elections are being compromised by the PDP with the lure of huge financial rewards should they agree to act out the their script to rig the elections. The further said: “In their desperation to seize power at all cost, they have not only perfected plans to usurp the distribution of the Permanent

Voters Card (PVCs) across the state but have already started acting it out as we have received reports that some PVCs meant for certain local government areas have been hijacked by PDP thugs.” “We want to use this medium to call on the security agencies in the state, particularly the Nigerian Police Force, to investigate the matter expeditiously and immediately put in place measures to forestall their wicked plans, and maintain peace and order throughout this electioneering period. We also call on INEC to carry out due diligence on all its ad-hoc

staff and monitor them closely so that those who have been compromised will not be allowed to carry out the PDP’s devious plans.” In his reaction to the alleged plot, the APC flagbearer, Mr. Godwin Obaseki noted: “We, in the APC, are not totally surprised by this distasteful development as the PDP is reputed for crude ‘do-or-die’ politics. We, however, want to state categorically that we will not be intimidated by their antics, and we will continue to push, through every legitimate means, our message of hope and prosperity.”

NCP’ll provide genuine change – Scribe Temitope Ogunbanke

he National Secretary of the National Conscience Party (NCP), Comrade Ayodele Akele, has urged Edo electorate to vote for good governance in the state by casting their votes for the NCP gubernatorial candidate, Pastor Peters

Omoragbon. Speaking in an interview with New Telegraph, Akele, who was NCP governorship candidate in Lagos State during last year’s general elections, said NCP is the only party in Nigeria that can give people the genuine change they are yearning for.

His words: “We are prepared for the election but our fear is that we have a government that has philosophy and background of inconclusive elections. As usual we know that they are going to manipulate the election but we will try our best in the election. “If Nigerians want

genuine change, they should vote for NCP. Nigerians have tried both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) and the two parties were colossal failure. NCP is the only party that can be trusted for a genuine change in Nigeria.”

Chukwu David Abuja

eputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has expressed deep worries over alleged arbitrary arrests and intimidation of members and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State by federal security agencies ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in the state. The Edo State chapter of the opposition party recently accused the Nigeria Police Force of unwarranted arrest and harassment of its members and supporters. Reacting to the allegation, Senator Ekweremadu, called on President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently intervene to ensure a free, fair, and credible

electoral poll in the state. He said: “I am deeply distressed by the development, not just because I am a member of the PDP, but more importantly, because the PDP had taken our electoral process beyond where it is being dragged back to today. “The greatest gift of democracy, which makes other blessings of democracy feasible, is the inalienable right of the people to elect their leaders of their own freewill in a free, fair, and credible electoral process that must be devoid of all forms of intimidation. Ekweremadu also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political parties, political elites, and the entire people of Edo State to work for the progress of the country and Edo State by ensuring a “credible, violence-free, and conclusive poll.”

Shaibu donates bus to church

he joy of the Catholic Women Organisation of Edo North (Auchi Diocese), knew no bound yesterday when the deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Mr. Philip Shaibu donated an 18-seater bus originally bought for his campaign to them. Shaibu’s wife, MaryAnn,who announced the donation, said the gesture is to lift the face of the women as she found out

that only the Edo North CWO does not have a bus. According to her, during a programme in Benin last month she discovered that only the Edo North CWO did not come with a bus of their own and that God ministered to her and in the divine encounter she vowed to provide the bus for the Catholic women. So, in fulfillment of the vow, she appealed to her husband to donate the bus to the organisation.

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

THURSDAY, September 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

APC, PDP crises, blessing for UPN – Paseda Otunba Rotimi Paseda contested the 2015 governorship election in Ogun State as the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) candidate. In this interview with KUNLE OLAYENI, the businessman turned politician speaks on his aspiration, his party’s preparedness for local government election in the state and some national issues. Excerpts:

There seems to be serious agitation between the Ijebu and Yewa-Awori people on where the governorship ticket in Ogun State should be zoned to in 2019. What is your take on that? I didn’t go into politics to practise politics of segregation. I am sure you could see that I actually sponsored members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) in the last election, we gave them tickets. The Paseda type of politics is all-inclusive. We are one Nigeria, we are one Ogun State. If the governor that has been in office prior to when somebody like me emerged had done what needed to be done, it wouldn’t have mattered that you are from Egba or Yewa or Ijebu. It doesn’t matter where the person comes from. We have three senatorial districts and if the government had assisted, developed equally all the three, it would have been okay. But I see it as direct form of discrimination if we say Egba is different from Yewa and Yewa is different from Ijebu; what makes us different? What we need is a man or a woman who is willing to do the right thing. It is very normal that if you are a governor, you don’t want your immediate environment to be bad; you don’t want your roads to be bad, you don’t want the road to the family house to be bad so you will do something to enhance that path of your life but then you must carry everybody along. Mind you, one of my earliest supporters is not an Ijebu person and I appreciate that. So, if I am from Ijebu and the person that supported me much earlier on is not Ijebu person, that is the way it should be. We should start learning to do the right thing. We need to change our election and electioneering process; people’s voice and people’s vote should be counted. We have to look for a way to make sure that we improve our system so that it is the will of the people that prevail, not the will of the few that want to grab power and stay there at all cost. I always like to go back to the late sage (Obafemi Awolowo) saying in one of his write-ups that there will come a time when the right and the left will come together and form one. That one will become the real government, the real system that will carry everybody along and then at that point we will be fighting for ourselves. That is what he said and it is happening.

Paseda

You will find out that whether we like it or not, there will come a time when money can’t do it again. You can have all the billions but it won’t make a difference, the will of the people will always prevail and we are getting there. If you carefully analyse Nigeria’s political turf, you would discover that both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are sharply divided along various blocs. Do you think your party, UPN, stands the chance of coming as the third force to set the proper pace in the polity? It is already the third force. It is not how do I think because if you take the right and the left like I just said, the APC and PDP; I can safely tell you that those leaving APC are coming to UPN as at today and those that have left or leaving PDP are in the UPN. They are just waiting for the last nail to be nailed on the coffin and you will find out that they are in UPN. But I must say what is happening in those parties is not unusual, it happens even in civilised countries. But it is a good thing, we have to break it down to build it and you might not build it in the same form but you must be ready to break it down. It is healthy to find out that one faction is fighting other faction, I am not averse to that. It happened to our party at early stages, it’s normal but you rise above it and stand your ground. My prayer is whichever faction is the best for the people should prevail. It doesn’t matter how many factions they are but there will always be one that will emerge. Invariably, you think the crisis in APC and PDP is a direct blessing to UPN? Yes, absolutely. It is a blessing to UPN and it is not only a blessing, it is a manifestation of the things that have been said in the past that will happen in our country. When you consider the number of the parties, how many are functioning? We have so many political parties but they are dead, they only exist on paper. How many are functioning in Ogun State today and

when did UPN come into play? We met some people there. When you hear APC positively or negatively, and when you hear PDP, the next party you hear is UPN. So what does that tell you?

Those leaving APC and PDP are coming to UPN as at today

The local government election in Ogun State is around the corner but many of the UPN candidates appear to be relatively unknown. What is your party doing to boost its chances at the poll? What you just said now has made my struggle worth the while. When you tell me you don’t know them is because they don’t have a name. They don’t have somebody to shout for them but they are somebody that people in their locality had chosen. I didn’t choose them, they were chosen locally by their own people to lead them. This coming local government election, you will be shocked. This is my second election; first one was governorship. This one will be my second experience but I could see what is happening. I am not a godfather to anybody neither are they my godsons or daughters. I am a servant-leader. We are partners in this trip, we want to make a change. If I am saying to you ‘can you do it?’ and you say ‘yes’! I don’t ask question, we don’t ask questions about which party are you from, we don’t want to hear that. You have walked in and you think you can do this and you are liked for the right reasons, we don’t care, you get the ticket. You think your party can make a good outing in the council poll but would you say the state authorities have provided a level playing field for all parties and candidates ahead of the elections? I don’t think within the box, I always think outside the box. For every system, there is a possibility of foul play, there is a possibility of rigging. It is normal, we met it in this world. But even if we think there is a chance of foul play, that shouldn’t stop you from going ahead. If we all say they will write the results, so we should just sit back and watch? No, that is not

how to make a change. We are going there and force them not to write the election results. Even if they write it, they won’t write it next time, we keep going. But then, the other thing that we keep forgetting is that Nigeria belongs to the youth. We are making a fundamental mistake today in this country by relegating the youth to one side. The biggest economy in the world, technologically, is China. What makes China tick? All these cottage industries that you are looking at are driven by the youths. We all have China on us but you will be surprised that some of the Chinese things we are using are made in a room and is the youth. If we can encourage and empower them a bit more, they have the zeal, they have the capacity, they have the intellect, they have exposure and they have the strength to do it. You can’t compare what I will do with what an 18-year-old will do, no matter how successful I am. If you give a fresh graduate the opportunities that I had, he will probably surpass me. A lot of our candidates are youths. I am surrounded by youths because they are the ones that will do it, they have the brains. We are going to contest this election, we are going to give it everything that we have. Our youths are the ones in the frontline. It is their future; we are giving them the opportunity to hold their future in their hands and to make something of it. The downturn in economy has taken heavy toll on the country. As a politician and businessman what is your advice for President Muhammadu Buhari on the current economic problem? A lot of people have actually advised the Federal Government, a lot of intelligent people have done that already. There are two sides to the problem. What the Federal Government is doing now as far as I am concerned is right. It’s the right path but not done in the right way. We must move away from oil dependence. But before we start banning rice, we should have made sure that we have enough supply first. I want the economic team to rethink and look at what comes first; is it the egg that comes first or the chicken before the egg? I think they have got their economic system worse, it’s upside down. But the idea, the principle is fantastic. Nigeria cannot survive without them doing what they are doing now. What the Federal Government is embarking on now, we need it but we must think of the poor and the ones that don’t have a voice. Who is suffering the tomato that is not available in the market? It’s not the rich; call it N10,000 per one they will buy it. But we need to think of those people that we are leading. The ones we are governing are the ones that matter. So, it is not too late, it can still be done. You can still open up your border. Even in civilized countries, they would give you a time. We are going to be banning this from so-so period. So those of you that want to hoard it, those that want to start manufacturing, you have the opportunity to start there. And then you need to put all that money back into the economy. You can’t be saying you are recovering from this and that person and yet keeping it stashed somewhere. You need to put the money back into the economy to help the economy. Once that money comes in, it would circulate.

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

THURSDAY, September 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Kwankwaso working against Ganduje’s success – Mohammed in 2019 because we so much believe in him. As far as we are concerned, you cannot compare Buhari with Kwankwaso, so if Buhari is contesting, for sure, Governor Ganduje is going to pitch camp with him because we believe that he is a better candidate. Buhari is an honest person but he met Nigeria in a critical situation; that is why we are having the problem we are having today. We believe that the policies and programmes on how to revive the economy among others are very salient issues that are having impact on the lives of the people today but Buhari is working hard to ensure that these issues are resolved. So, we believe that four years is not enough for the President to complete the reforms, which he intend to carry out. Ganduje would be with Buhari and l don’t see Kwankwaso going anywhere as far as we are concerned. He is just a local person, who is known in Kano and some other northern states.

Kano State Commissioner for Information, Garba Mohammed, believes that former governor of the state, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso is working for the failure of his successor, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. He gives the perspective of the government on the crisis in the state in this interview with Jonhchuks Onuanyim

Your principal, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, was accused recently of instigating the police to seal off the foundation office of his predecessor, Senator Rabiu Kwakwanso. What really transpired? l am really surprised that the Kwakwasiyya group are thinking along that line because the governor was not even in the country when it happened. For all those who know Ganduje, he is a peace loving and humble individual who doesn’t believe in crisis. The governor has been tolerating this group for quite a while now. The problem is that the Kwakwasiyya group has refused to understand that there is a change of government; that there is a change in leadership; that there is another governor in place who should be given all the necessary cooperation and support to move the state forward. There is no way you will have two governors in a state. You can’t have two leaderships in a state. It is only one that would steer the affairs of the state and I think this is what the Kwakwasiyya group has refused to understand, and l think that is a major problem between us and the group. They are sabotaging everything that has been done by this administration. They have not appreciated anything done by this administration. What we receive from them is sabotage, propaganda in the media among others and we feel that such is wrong, especially as it is coming from the same party. There are people surrounding Kwankwaso, who are not ready to allow peace reign in the state and l think that we have been patient enough. The governor has spoken to his supporters’ time without number but we have realised that these guys are not ready to cooperate with us. Therefore, we have no alternative than to react in a way that they wanted us to react. The issue of sealing the office, believe me, the governor had no hand in it and he is not even aware and as the Commissioner for Information, l was not aware of what really happened. In fact, somebody in the media called me for my

Mokwe

reaction and l know the bottom line was that they were supposed to have a mass wedding for about 100 couples, unfortunately it tallied with our own programme for 2,000 youths and the police invited two of us and said ‘in our findings, we realised that there would be clashes and that some persons are trying to create problem.’ Therefore, they advised us to postpone our programme and we obliged to that because we are peace loving people. It was later we were told, l don’t have evidence, that they went and did a secret marriage and that they were giving out gifts and that was why the police went and sealed the place. The Kwakwasiyya group believes that the former governor has a right to play a godfather role in Kano given the work he did and that he installed the present governor. What is your take on that? Well, if he is trying to be the godfather of Kano, nobody is depriving him that but it depends on the way and manner in which he does it. But let me tell you this, gone are the days of godfatherism in politics because the people are becoming enlightened. Nobody as far as we are concerned would come out and imposed leadership on us. People like us tend to believe leadership is from God and we believe that even if we have leaders, there are limits you can impose you policies and programmes to the people of the state. Nobody has any doubt that the former governor did well. He did his best as a governor and we gave him all the necessary support but nobody we defy our own administration. Does the row between your principal and the former governor has anything to do with the 2019 presidency? Let me assure you that we will support President Muhammadu Buhari 100 per cent if he contests

Ganduje would be with Buhari and l don’t see Kwankwaso going anywhere... He is just a local person

There are allegations that Kwankwaso left a huge debt for the state. How true is that? It is true, he left over N300 billion. Twenty-four hours to handing over, Kwankwaso was still commissioning uncompleted projects. Go and see Prince Audu Bridge, it was commissioned before the project was completed. There were so many projects that were commissioned during the past administration, which were not completed. Contractors were given mobilization fees. In the media, which I am in charge of, we have over N700 million debt that was left by the past administration and most of these debts have to do with live coverage of events which the governor was doing. Almost all the media organisations that are in Kano State are being owed by the past administration. But we have put these issues behind us as the governor said that government is a continuum. The present government has no reason to expose some of these things but unfortunately the Kwawasiyya group continues to put pressure on this administration. How do you react to the belief that the former governor still remains the face of APC in Kano State? They should also know that in 2003, Kwankwaso lost election to Mallam Ibrahim Shekerau. So, we are going to win all elections in Kano State in 2019, God willing. We recently had House of Assembly election and we won. I agree that Kwankwaso was the leader of the party at a time and we appreciate his effort to ensure that we have state and National Assembly members emerging from APC, it is a credit to him but I am assuring you that Kano State goes on radical politics. As long as Buhari is around and is going to contest the next election, it is going to be 100 per cent for him in Kano. From state Assembly, National Assembly, governorship and the presidency, God willing, it is going to be 100 per cent for APC in Kano State. We had expected that Kwankwaso would have talked to his

people to give all the necessary support to this administration so that we can succeed. The debt you are talking about, we are paying some of the contractors about N200 million monthly. We felt that this would have compelled them to cooperate with us. We don’t care who the leader of APC is because l know that the governor has a lot of respect for Kwankwaso. Even when the issue of reconciliation came up, the governor was ready but Kwakwanso said he was not ready. The removal of inscriptions of the former governor from public places as a result of a resolution of the State House of Assembly and his investigation by the anti-graft agencies, are they coming from the state government? Kano State government has no hand in the activities of the State Assembly. It was the state Assembly that passed the resolution. Somebody moved a motion on the floor of the Assembly and a resolution was passed that those inscriptions should be removed. What the previous administration did was that it put the Kwakwasiyya insignia on whatever it constructed. When we started doing similar projects, Governor Ganduje directed that no public building that was done with public money should have his inscription. Even for the Ganduje Foundation that has existed for over 30 years and has built over 30 mosques and other structures, there is no inscription of Ganduje on any of them. If the State Assembly feels that it is wrong and should be removed, it can go ahead with that. It is not from us, the Assembly is independent and its resolutions should be obeyed. On the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) issue, we are not even aware of it and when l read it l tried to find out as a member of the state executive council and l was briefed later that the issue has been on for over years but the media did not capture it. EFCC has the right to investigate any individual or organisation because that is their own responsibility and we don’t pray that something bad should happened to anybody. How do you think the feud could be resolved? I don’t really know but l know that we are ready at any point in time. I hope you are aware of the efforts the leadership of the party at a time to reconcile the sides and there was a meeting inviting stakeholders and elders of the party in Kano State. There was a joint meeting and there were individual meetings with the governor and the former governor as part of efforts to reconcile the two parties. The problem is with the Kwankwaso group because they keep on sabotaging the administration, they keep on creating the picture that our administration is not doing the right thing. Even if we are not doing the right thing, there are means and ways they can reach us. So, honestly we are ready for peace anytime and any day.

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

THURSDAY, September 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Dr. Yunusa Adamu Dangwani, a former Chief of Staff and later Commissioner for Water Resources in the Rabiu Kwankwaso administration in Kano State governor, on the political crisis in the state, insisting that Governor Abdullahi Ganduje is using the 2019 presidency to blackmail his former principal. Johnchuks Onuanyim reports

What is responsible for the feud between the former governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso and his successor, Abdullahi Ganduje? As far as we are concern, there is no political crisis between Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso and the current governor. Kwankwaso is there as a senator doing his job and he is doing it well. If you have been following the proceedings in the Senate, you will know his contributions. But the duo have been summoned by the leadership of the party at one point or the other for reconciliation. The question is: Does it have to do with 2019 or the former governor trying to call the shot in Kano as godfather? First, it is not the issue of 2019. We are still in 2016. Kwankwaso is a very experienced politician, who does not just vie for any office. He allows the people to decide for him. So, even for 2019, he is going to wait for that and the second thing you asked is if he wants to play the godfather? l will say that Kwankwaso has never played the godfather and since he left office, he has never r interfered with the governance in Kano State. That was why he even stayed for nine months in Abuja before he visited Kano State and that was when he came to condole with the present governor on the death of his mother. In appointments, Kwankwaso was never contacted or consulted even for the position of a labourer. So, the governor is doing his job and Kwankwaso has never interfered and has no intention to interfere. The crisis was started by the present governor. It started specifically after the condolence visit. There is a resolution from the state Assembly that all inscriptions of Kwankwaso in public places should be removed. How do you see that? This shows that the government has no programme for Kano State and her people. Any government that has plans and programmes for the people would not condescend low to be removing insignia of the past administration and l will advise them that they should

Ganduje blackmailing predecessor with 2019 presidency – Dangwani concentrate on how to give good governance to the people of Kano State. I don’t know how much they are going to spend in removing the insignia and if they do that, they would not remove the name of Kwankwaso from the mouths of Kano people because he has done a lot for every person to see, and I think the only way to wipe out Kwankwaso from the hearts of the people is for the governor to go and demolish all the projects he did. Even if they do that, they would not remove Kwankwaso from the heart of Kano people. It shows that this people have no agenda and the state Assembly members are just their playing to the gallery and acting the script of the executive. You see, this is the second time the governor is instigating problem whenever he travels out. I can remember that the last time he travelled, the state Assembly passed a resolution that the governor should remove the Accountant-General from office and we are all politicians, so we know where these things usually come from. Now he is out of town and the state Assembly is also acting his script by announcing that all insignia of Kwankwaso should be removed. Well, let them go and remove them but they can never remove Kwankwanso from the mouths and minds of the people of Kano State. You are saying that the former governor did much but there are allegations that he left a huge debt for his successor. l don’t know what you call debt. I think they should consult economist and all other financial experts. There is no government that would come in and that would not meet debt. When Kwankwaso was in government, he never borrowed from any financial institution. He started projects and programmes and as you know, government is a continuum. What they are calling debt is the total sum of the projects started by Kwankwaso. What would you say about the investigation of your former principal by the Economic and Financial Crimes commission (EFCC) for alleged embezzlement of over N800 million? First and foremost, l don’t know what they are investigating him for. The question would be: What did he do with the money? Secondly, we know right from day one that the government commissioned people to right petitions against Kwankwaso and we are ready for EFCC to come and investigate us. EFCC is a responsible government organisation and of course, it has a moral and constitutional right to investigate petitions sent to it. So, let us wait for the commission to complete its investigation before we can respond. Kwankwaso’s was recently t sealed because of a planned mass wedding. Was it the governor that instigated that? As far as l know, the governor and the government caused it. Kwankwaso initiated mass wedding when he was the governor

They went on air and announced that the two events have been cancelled and we said okay; let the couples go back to their villages and communities and let them wed there and after their wedding they can come back for their gifts from the foundation but to our surprise, as earlier as possible, the police personnel blocked all ways leading to the place that they were going to collect their gifts and we felt this was beyond imagination and was a violation of our fundamental human right. So, it was obvious that the hands of government were there and it also relates to what you asked about the removal of Kwakwassiya insignia. But we wouldn’t sit down and see our rights being trampled on by the government and security agencies. We will make sure that we follow all legal means to make sure we get our rights back.

Dangwani

of Kano State and it was well accepted, and as you know, the issue of divorce is rampant in our society, so he felt this is the time especially at this economic challenges to continue with mass wedding under a foundation, especially for those who are financially challenged. Before now, the governor was asked if he was going to continue with the mass wedding, he said no; that there is no money to continue with such programme but as soon as he heard that Kwakwanso Foundation is embarking on the mass wedding, within 15 to 20 minutes, he asked the Commandant General of Hisbah in Kano to announce that government is also embarking on mass wedding. All the same we were happy that the government was also embarking on the mass wedding but let me tell you that we heard from a reliable source that the governor didn’t want the mass wedding to take place but we continued our preparation and we wrote to the security agencies that we were going to conduct the mass wedding and the ceremony was going to take place at a particular place, while the wedding itself would take place at the Mosque, thus the governor because he was jittery, started going round, talking to the institutions that they shouldn’t attend. After realising that he was not going to succeed in that, they initiated a fake hawab programme and they applied for the same day from the security agencies but being law abiding citizens, we said okay, we don’t want any rancour and we wrote back to all the security agencies that since the government is doing empowerment programme on that day, let us shift our own programme to the following day. To our surprise, the security agencies, especially the police did not write or call us to say we cannot hold the ceremony on the day.

The 2019 Kwankwaso for president project is just the handiwork of the governor and political enemies

Some people believe that the 2019 presidency is responsible for the feud. Your principal is said to be interested for the presidency, while the governor believes that President Muhammadu Buhari should run for a second term. How would you react to this? Let me say it; the governor is using that to attract sympathy from Buhari but he doesn’t know that Buhari is too smart for that. The only way he can get the sympathy and attention of Buhari is for him to do the right thing by gaining the favour of the people of Kano State first. Kwankwaso as a Nigerian has the right to go for any position but the truth is that Kwankwaso is not looking at 2019 and you know that he contested for the primaries for the 2015 election but as a Nigerian and a member of the party, he can’t start thinking about 2019 presidency. That is not in his mind. He is a senator and that is what he is doing and he will to continue do till 2019 and it is God, who would decide what he would do next. The 2019 Kwankwaso for president project is just the handiwork of the governor and political enemies. The governor is just using it to gain favour from Buhari but he doesn’t know that Buhari is a very straightforward leader. Between Kwankwaso and Ganduje, who is behind APC’s victory in Kano State? If you have followed the politics of Kano, you would have known that APC won in the state because of Kwankwaso. We won all the electable positions in Kano State to the presidency level and the slogan was APC Kwakwasiyya. So, this should show you who is on ground in Kano. Kwankwaso is the pillar of APC in Kano and he will continue to be for several reasons. So, the governor knows himself and he knows that he won because of Kwankwaso and members of Kwakwasiyya Movement and l challenge any of them who feels that he won because of his popularity to resign and let us go back to the field and he would see who the people of Kano State would support.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion Impeachment of Dilma Rousseff Turning Point MIKE ARAYUWA WILKIE pmikky1950@yahoo.com 0802-3097-251 (sms only)

ilma Vana Rousseff, is the daughter of a Bulgarian immigrant, born on December 14, 1947, in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. She is a single mother with Paula as her only child. She attended the Federal Universities of Minas Gerais, Rio Grande do Sul and the University of Campinas. Dilma is an Economist, Politician and a Marxist ideologue. During her youthful years, she became a socialist, and after the military coup of 1964, Dilma joined various urban guerilla groups, which fought against military regime. Unfortunately, she was arrested by the military regime and sent to prison (1970-1972). In 2005, she was appointed as Minister of Energy by President Luiz Macio Lula Da Silva. Later, she became the Chief of Staff in the presidency. Dilma served in this official capacity for five years, stepped down in 2010 to campaign for her presidential ambition. In 2011, Dilma won the presidential contest on the platform of the Workers’ Party and became the first woman to occupy the office of President in the Latin American country. The lady of iron was re-elected in 2014, with a narrow-margin victory over two other candidates of the social Democratic Party, Jose Serra and Aecio Neves, in a hot run-off contest. Prior to the impeachment saga of President Rousseff, the country experienced rampant poverty, visible hunger, widespread violence, a zika outbreak and corruption in government. In December 2015, an impeachment request was received and accepted by the President of

the Chamber of Deputies (Senate), Eduardo Cunha, who is a known political adversary of Rousseff. In the impeachment notice, it was alleged that the president manipulated government budget, and interfered with state Accounts. She was also accused of using the funds of state bank to pay up-front, its regular expenses without congressional consent and approval. According to the constitution, such an alleged act amounts to gross illegality. Additionally, it was alleged that President Dilma embraced administrative misconduct, and the total disregard for the Federal Budget, and therefore violated items V and VI of article 85 of the Brazilian constitution, including article 36 of the Fiscal Responsibility Law (FRL). Budget padding is the Nigerian version. In Nigeria, budget padding means nothing, and does not constitute a constitutional breach. It is only in Nigeria that such act is not an offence, but not so, in other matured democracies. Consequent upon these allegations by the Senate, simple majority voted in favour of opening an impeachment process against the president. Rather than allow a team of first class Lawyers to handle the matter for her, Rousseff opted to appear in person and defend herself. Almost at the same time, Michel Miquel Elias Temer Lulia, her 75 year-old Vice, and a Professor of Law, had ensured that all cabinet ministers of his Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB) in the coalition government, resigned. The aim was to abandon Rousseff to fight the battle of her impeachment alone. It was obvious that the Vice President played an ignoble role to ensure that his principal was impeached, to enable him takeover as the substantive president of Brazil. Inspite of her flawless and spirited defence, to diffuse the allegations before senate, 61 voted in favour of Dilma’s impeachment, as against 20, who said no. The Vice President was immediately

The Vice President played an ignoble role to ensure that his principal was impeached

sworn-in as the 37th President of Brazil. Dilma Vana Rousseff, was thus, the second president to be impeached from office, president Fernando Collor de Mello, being the first to be so removed in 1992. As far as Rousseff is concerned, the allegations against her, were merely used as a legal excuse and her impeachment from the office of president was nothing but a coup staged by the opposition. It was also her irrevocable view that many other past presidents, Mayors and State Governors also used the same creative accounting techniques and were never punished. Rousseff, maintained all through the senate proceedings, that she did not act criminally in budgetary affairs. It is glaring to state, however, that throughout the presidency of Dilma, Government Accounts were in a better shape than they were. Brazil also came-up from a decade of solid growth and strong income redistribution. To achieve this fundamental progress, the ousted president set in motion expensive economic and financial stimulus to keep the nation’s finances grow, pending, when the global economy will improve. Two and a half years ago, 54.5 million Brazilians voted Rousseff into office as president, for a second tenure. Her centre left workers’ party has ruled the country since 2003, without constitutional breaches. The allegations against her were also the same offences committed by past governments and presidents, but why should that of Dilma constitute an impeachment against her? The fact that majority member states of the Organization of American States (OAS) have withdrawn their Ambassadors from Brazil, is an evidence that the impeachment of Dilma Rousseff will certainly fail any credibility test. “conscience is an open wound, only truth can heal”, (Usman Dan Fodio, 1804). However, the Supreme Court of Brazil is the final bus stop on this matter.

Nnewi and the industrialization of Nigeria Kingsley Chiedu Moghalu

am a proud indigene of Nnewi, an ancient town in Anambra State populated by industrious and resourceful men, women and children, with a hereditary monarchy dating back over five centuries. Nnewi is a town that has produced many of Nigeria’s most illustrious sons and daughters, men and women who have made sterling contributions to Nigeria’s economic and political development. These giants, several of whom are now deceased, include Sir Louis Phillip Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the wealthiest Nigerian businessman of his era and the founding President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange; his world-famous son Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Military Governor of Eastern Nigeria and Head of State of the Republic of Biafra, and Dr. A.A. Nwafor Orizu, the Senate President of Nigeria in the First Republic. Other Nnewi-born men and women of rare distinction include Francis Chuka Nwokedi, the first indigenous Nigerian to be appointed a Federal Permanent Secretary in the Nigerian colonial civil ser-

vice in 1956 (Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Labour) and who later served as Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defence in the First Republic; Dr. Chu S.P. Okongwu, who served variously as Federal Minister of National Planning, Finance, and Petroleum Resources; Dame Virgy Etiaba, the first female State Governor in Nigeria, and Engr. Ebele Okeke, the former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. But this town of nearly half a million people is most noteworthy for its historical dominance of the automobile spare parts trade and its record and potential as an industrial hub in Nigeria. This hub of economic production can become a theatre for the industrialization and economic diversification of the Nigerian economy. Perhaps the greatest secret in Nigeria today is how, against all odds, Nnewi deployed a spectacular feat of backward integration to become a strong domestic industrial manufacturer of automobile and motorcycle spare parts and other products. Today, Innoson Motors locally manufactures vehicles of different types and is one of several Nnewi based or Nnewi indigene-owned companies in the vanguard of Nigeria’s nascent industrial revolution.

Why Manufacturing Matters Successive governments in Nigeria have expressed the imperative of diversifying the Nigerian economy away from dependence on oil revenues. But we have not yet achieved this objective. Indeed, I would say that, generally speaking, we are still some distance away from doing so in reality. It is only a structural transformation of Nigeria’s economy based on industrial manufacturing that can lead to Nigeria’s long-term economic rebirth. Not low-productivity agriculture devoid of agro-allied industrial manufacturing in which we add value to agricultural products and export these products. Not the mining and export of raw solid minerals, however attractive that prospect might appear in the short term. There is no path to real, durable prosperity for Nigeria as a country that can avoid building an industrial economy based on the development of manufacturing and the ancillary structures essential for industrial success. The secret of the wealth of the industrialized nations lies in their industrial productive capacity, which is what generates superior, sustainable output growth. This is what is called economic complexity – the manufacture and export of complex products with value, knowledge and competitive advantage em-

bedded in such products. Economic complexity also includes an applied understanding of what is known as the “product space”, the network of connecting products that are likely to be co-exported and can be used to predict the evolution of a country’s export structure. All of this requires productive knowledge and skills. You can, therefore, ignore anyone who tells you that a very populous country such as Nigeria, with large domestic markets and other potential economies of scale, can achieve economic transformation on the back of a strictly services-based economy in which we use technology to “leapfrog”, by-passing manufacturing and moves into a “postindustrial” economy. My answer to this perspective, which I have heard suggested –and have countered --in several forums around the world, is that you cannot become a postindustrial society, as some believe the industrialized western world is now becoming, without being first an industrial one. Nigeria’s efforts at diversifying its economy must therefore focus on infrastructure, skills, and manufacturing. •Prof. Moghalu wrote via kmoghalu@gmail.com

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

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Militancy: Umar’s timely intervention

ecently Col. Abubakar Umar Dangiwa (retd) warned the Federal Government not to use military option in quelling militancy in the Niger Delta. The intervention of the former military governor of Kaduna State is not only timely but necessary at a time the government is seriously considering resorting to the use of force in dealing with the militants who have been responsible for destroying oil and gas installations and facilities in the Niger Delta with its attendant consequences for the Nigerian economy. President Muhammadu Buhari had said he would treat the militants like Boko Haram, the terrorist group that had held the country, specifically the North East, to ransom in as many years. The president first made this assertion in April in a meeting with the Nigerian community during his visit to China where he said that saboteurs and those who destroy oil and gas installations in the Niger Delta region would be treated like Boko Haram should they persist in their sabotage. Buhari among other things said: “…Whoever is caught will not be spared. The government is still being dared, but those who are sensible should have learned a lesson. Those who are mad, let them continue in their madness. I am aware that in the last two weeks, the national grid collapsed a number of times. I hope this message will reach the

vandals and saboteurs who are blowing up pipelines and installations. We will deal with them the way we dealt with Boko Haram.” Just last month Buhari reiterated his threat while holding talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the sixth Tokyo International Conference on African Development in Nairobi, Kenya. Obviously, this was an attempt to send reassurances to the international community, especially foreign investors, that their investments in Nigeria would be secure. He also used the opportunity to assure his audience of security in the Gulf of Guinea,

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Equating the militants with Boko Haram is a contentious issue

which is a hotbed of piracy and gun running. To further accentuate the threat of the military option, the army also re-echoed the president’s tough stance on the issue of the militancy in Niger Delta. “The military will employ all available means and measures within its rule of engagement to crush any individual or group that engages in the destruction of strategic assets and facilities of the government in the Niger Delta or any other location and they will stand to regret the consequences of their actions. The whole world has seen what they are causing in terms of economic

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terrorism against the nation and would be treated as criminals in line with the laws of the land.” These are weighty statements of intent not to be taken lightly. So, it is against this backdrop that the intervention of Umar, a respected former military officer, is timely. That a former officer like the president is the one making the call for dialogue and negotiation is crucial. Umar knows what is at stake and is in a position to counsel the president whose frustration at the incessant sabotage of pipelines and installations can be understood. An all-out military action will only exacerbate an

already volatile situation. The terrain where the militants operate in the creeks is so treacherous that it will be difficult if not outright impossible to engage them. If the military uses air bombardments, at some point during the engagement they will have to involve ground troops and that is where the danger lies. At any rate, would air bombardments discriminate between the militants and innocent civilians? The collateral damage will be colossal. One which the government should be seriously bothered about. We also note that equating the militants with Boko Haram is a

contentious issue. The militants are not terrorists properly so called, so talking about treating them like Boko Haram should not even arise. There are issues of justice, equity among others at play. Their lands have been devastated and degraded after many years of oil exploration without a corresponding increase in their living conditions. Therefore, it is easy to conclude that government is only interested in ‘pacifying’ the restive Niger Deltants only to the extent that, that action will allow it to continue carrying out its economic activity of oil exploration. So like Umar noted, objective Nigerians and the international community are not likely to support the use of military option in crushing militancy in the Delta. His clincher is that the creeks of the Niger Delta are saturated with oil and that the deployment of heavy explosive materials there will lead to a massive conflagration comparable to Dante’s allegorical inferno. So, we aver that the best and only option is to dialogue and negotiate with the militants. Although there will be those among them who may be recalcitrant, continuing government effort in this regard will ultimately yield the desired result. We implore President Buhari to continue to explore all peaceful means to resolve the Niger Delta crisis as difficult as this may be.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

SouthEastFocus

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South South Focus When death, destruction came visiting

21 News A thought for senior citizens

It was set up in anger after the civil war ended in 1970. Businessmen from the town, who had suffered losses in different parts of the country returned home and started trading in motorcycle spare parts. Today, many of them are manufacturers of vehicles and motorcycles. DAMIAN DURUIHEOMA reports from Nnewi

newi Utra-Modern Main Market was established over four decades ago after the Biafran War. That was when some traders and indigenes of the town in Lagos and other parts of the country resolved to head back home and reestablish their motorcycle and auto spare parts businesses which were destroyed during the pogroms in parts of the country. Though, few people accorded the market the chances of survival due to its location far off Onitsha, the commercial nerve centre of the East, Nnewi Auto Spare Parts Market has grown to become, arguably the largest spare parts market in Africa and third largest auto spare parts market in the world. Today, the name ‘Nnewi UtraModern Main Market’ brings about only one thing to the mind: a central market for auto spare parts and auto products, services and expertise. Acclaimed as Africa’s largest technology market, Nkwo Nnewi has become the one-stop solution for virtually all kinds of motorcycles, auto

An entrance into the market

Nkwo Nnewi: Where traders become manufacturers spare parts and other wares. Entering the market from the Nkwo Nnewi Triangle along Owerri Road, a first time visitor would definitely appreciate where the town got the sobriquet—Japan of Africa—and is dumbfounded by the series of activities of small scale entrepreneurs, who use charcoal to produce motorcycle brake pads and others who remodel dead motorcycles, engines and blocks to come back to life. What started merely as a trading centre for motorcycle spare parts at Nkwo Nnewi Market has turned the town into an economic hub of the east. Nkwo Nnewi Market is the major import and wholesale point for motor spare parts in Nigeria. The first indigenous car manufacturing plant is located in the town, while the first wholly Made-in-Nigeria motorcycle was manufactured in Nnewi by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI). Since then, several individuals in Nnewi have gone into manufacturing of motorcycles and others like electric generators. Nnewi has since assumed the status of a one-stop market where goods especially auto spare parts, motorcycles, cables, cosmetics, chemical and allied products, food and agro processing, plastic wares, are bought in retail or bulk in good prices. Today, majority of the traders, who started as motorcycle spare parts

dealers and later importers, have ventured into manufacturing of various motor vehicles, lubricants, food and agriculture products, plastics and other home wares. The industrialists of Nnewi are adapting foreign technology to local needs, providing employment to thousands, and making available goods and services which are relevant actual needs of the Nigerian citizens. The town and market serve not only Nigerian customers, but countries of both West and Central Africa such as Cameroun, Ghana, Benin Republic and Gabon amongst others. According to a trader in the market, Nkenna Ozodi, Nnewi Motorcycle Spare Parts Market brings the world to the east because everything about motorcycle and motor vehicles could be bought at very good prizes. “And it is important to state clearly that this market is known for quality and high premium products and so manufacturers of substandard products are advised to upgrade their products if they wish to be part of the action in this market“. From small-scale manufacturers to large-scale importers to big time industrialists, Nnewi has grown in strength and has since been rubbing shoulders with such industrial cities like Aba to become what many know today in south east as the home to many major indigenous manufacturing companies. From Chicason Group of Companies, Tummy Tummy/Kotec Group,

Innoson Group of companies, Ofortraco, GOD Group—all in Umudim Nnewi to Ibeto Group of Companies, Cutix Plc, Uru Industries Ltd, Omata Holdings Ltd, First Aluminum, Cento Group of Companies, Coscharis Group of Companies, Ngoo Bros, Ebunso Nig. Ltd, John White Industries, Ejiamatu Group of Companies, Louis Carter Group… the list is endless. One interesting thing about the majority of these industrialists is that they all started as motorcycle spare parts traders in Nkwo Nnewi Market which metamorphosed into Nnewi Ultramodern Auto Spare Parts Market with the exception of the likes of Cutix PLC and Adswitch PLC, who have a background in engineering. A pioneer trader at the market, Patrick Okoli, said “This is the third largest auto spare parts market in the world and biggest in Africa where you can find a wide array of branded motorcycles, vehicles and spare parts of all kinds. This is a market awash with auto mechanical and technical gurus”. Reeling out a brief history of the market, a native of the community, Engr. Chukwuemeka Nzewi, in a paper titled ‘Industrialization And The Nnewi Experience,’ recalled that the pogrom of 1966 forced Nnewi people home, as their security was no longer guaranteed outside. “Most of their investments outside were lost or declared abandoned properties. The forced homecoming exposed CO NTINUED O N PAGE 20

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ihiagwa: FUTO’s host community battles bad roads Ihiagwa is home to the Federal University of Technology, Owerri and some other strategic institutions around it. But the failure of the Imo State government to maintain roads around the area is now a nightmare. STEVE UZOECHI, in Owerri, reports

hiagwa community in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State is surrounded by six ancient towns— Eziobodo, Okolochi, Emeabiam, Umuokpo, Nekede and Obinze. Apart from Nekede, the rest of the communities are known as the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) host communities. One salient feature of these towns is their agrarian nature, which is the reason they are ranked among the communities known in Imo State as the food basket of the state for the fact that they produce farm products in commercial quantities. Some of the agricultural produce with which the towns pride themselves are garri, yam, cassava, palm oil, vegetables, maize and livestock. These products once attracted customers and traders from all parts of the state and the neighbouring Abia and Anambra States, not only to the Nkwo Ukwu market within the university town of Ihiagwa, but to other markets in the adjoining communities, where the people sell their farm produce. Many important personalities such as Chief Chris Asoluka, former member House of Representatives; Chief Victor Muruako, chairman Federal Character Commission; Engr. Emeka Uduokporo among others hail from Ihiagwa. During the tenures of former Governors Achike Udenwa and Ikedi Ohakim,

A portion of the road

most FUTO lecturers took pride in driving themselves to the university because the then governments were always in the habit of maintaining roads that traversed the community because of FUTO and the Federal Polytechnic Nekede which also situates along the Nekede-Ihiagwa road. That was as far as the positives surrounding Ihiagwa and its neighbouring communities went. Today, first time visitors to FUTO and Ihiagwa community cannot but gnash their teeth in frustration at the gruelling torment of just trying to navigate through the bad roads that have grown from bad to the worse state of disrepair. Farmers in the area can neither take the agricultural produce for which they pride themselves as farmers to neighbouring markets to sell nor would the traders who usually flood the Nkwo Ukwu

Ihiagwa market visit again without suffering incredibly for it. This is due to the deplorable state of the major road - NazeNekede-Ihiagwa-Obinze - that leads into the communities. Apart from the Obinze axis of the road from where FUTO can now be accessed, going to Ihiagwa, particularly during the rainy season, is a venture visitors and members of the community who live outside the town dread. The people of the community are indeed in a dilemma and with the continuous rainfalls so far, the barely manageable portions of the roads have started collapsing while the people have been hugely affected economically with shops and businesses closing in their numbers. Already, the community has been cut off from Obinze following poor handling

of the road project by Governor Rochas Okorocha’s administration since 2012. Our correspondents gathered that the state government had awarded a contract for the rehabilitation of the road in 2012, but the job was shabbily done. The resultant effect of the government’s action is that the communities within the area are gradually losing their dominance as major food baskets of the state due to bad roads, especially during the rains. A trip to the university community showed that the road which serves as a major link for Naze, Federal Polytechnic Nekede and Ihiagwa with FUTO, has remained in a sorry state due to flooding which has created huge rivers of sorts that have refused to dry up even in dry seasons, thus posing a huge problem to road users and struggling business owners.

Transiting from buying, selling to producing CON TINUED ON PAGE 20

the inadequacy of the Nkwo Market then situated at the Nkwo triangle. The need therefore arose to establish a bigger place to contain the influx. The traditional institution of Nnewi headed by the Nnewi Monarch showed its love, concern and commitment to her people”. He added that a decision was taken for the relocation of the Nkwo market from Nkwo triangle to the present place, which is bigger. “Thus, began the march to establish the Nnewi motor spare parts market. At the end of the war, other people came to Nnewi from far and near to trade in spare parts and to live in Nnewi”. When the war ended, he said, importation was difficult due to lack of funds. This difficulty in obtaining foreign exchange boosted the initial domination of old motor spare parts trade over the new parts. “In 1970, there were about 700 members of the Nnewi old parts union. By 1978, membership of the new parts union outweighed the old parts union. “The war caused the Nnewi people to think home. The product of peace and strong community ties and the support of the traditional institution remain factors that helped in the setting up of new industries. Also the loss of properties outside Igboland, especially in Port Harcourt, the need

for security and the aftermath of the northern massacres and the civil war may also have triggered the industrial surge. Another reason is the vast experience and skills acquired in trading which made it easy for the Nnewi people to move from trading to manufacturing”. Another native of the town and trader at the market, Clifford Nnam, described Nnewi Ultra-modern Auto Spare Parts Market as a success story that Nigeria was yet to celebrate. According to him, “It’s through this market that you now have these big time industrialists. Many of the traders, irrespective of your academic background want to stop importation and delve into manufacturing. They want to take a cue from some of these pioneers of Nnewi Industrialisation who didn’t even finish secondary school. Again, most of the spare parts manufactured here in Nnewi are considered more durable than the ones we import from Asia.” For Moses Okoro, a member of the Fairly Used and New Motorcycle Dealers Association (FUNMDA) in the town, “ The only thing I want to say about Nnewi and the way the Federal Government is maltreating the Igbo is just what happened in America. While the Second World War was going on, the Americans were busy developing their economic capacity and the world woke up to an

economic super power. As Nigerians are busy struggling for political power, some day, they will wake up to the realization that beyond Aso-Rock, there is a place where the sun rises. The history of great nations of the world is a story of group of people with indefatigable and undying spirit. Beyond the pains, we see the glory here in Nnewi”. On why the market is witnessing a lull in terms of patronage from other African countries, Okoro attributed it to establishment of similar businesses in many other African countries by Igbo people. “It’s a normal thing because if you go to Ghana, Niger, Togo, Cotonou, and all that, you’ll see our Igbo people doing the same business at nearly the same price as you get it here. So, you don’t expect people who are buying in retail to come to Nnewi and buy except those buying in bulk”, he said. Okoro added that this new challenge was the reason many were trying to go into genuine manufacturing, as that according to him, would stamp Nnewi as the real Japan of Africa. On the way forward, Engr. Nzewi also offered his view saying, “The industrialization of Nnewi has been encouraged by the need to think home. The relative communal peace and security has also promoted it. The Nkwo market as a functioning and booming market for automotive and motorcycles trading have enhanced it. The

utilization of home-grown technology or adapted technology and the establishment of inter-industrial linkage have strengthened industrialization in Nnewi.... The hospitality sector is witnessing growth. ICT and the fire services are on the increase and booming. “It is true that Nnewi people have tried to provide for themselves those things that enhance industrialization. However, the truth of the matter is that we cannot continue like that without massive government assistance. The absence of a true and real political power base in Nnewi is a great hindrance. At present, Nnewi is sacrificing political dynamism and sagacity on the altar of rotation for state House of Assembly. This effectively confers on Nnewi the neophyte status in state diplomacy. There are pockets of professional politicians who are more interested in personal gains than in the industrial growth of the town. Such should no longer be in the driving seat. “Genuine industrialists should harmonize their interests and take the driving seat for Nnewi to remain the Japan of Africa. The individual contributions of Nnewi industrialists to the Nigerian economy cannot be glossed over. The exploits of Nnewi industrialists both at Nnewi and in Nigeria remain a source of encouragement, hope, strength and joy. Why will Nnewi not get its fair share of the presence of government and become the industrial giant it is destined to be?”

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

SouthSouthFocus

One of the burnt vehicles

When death, destruction came visiting

An early morning inferno from a fuel-laden truck has caused havoc in Benin, Edo State. It left in its wake tears and sorrow and death as CAJETAN MMUTA reports from Benin

rs Ewonemen Felicia has all her life been an enterprising, happy and jovial woman. As a young lady, she looked forward to the day nature would smile brightly on her and God no doubt answered her prayers as may be wished and desired by every other of her age and background. Beyond the natural endowments, her mien hides any guess that she is a rich man’s wife. Interestingly, the Edo born mother has a humble beginning and that gives her an edge in a competitive world of business and enterprise. With the combination of hard work, courage and devotion, she has successfully managed her restaurant business with ease despite the usual stress that she daily passes through towards making ends meet. This she has done for many years and has successfully fending for her family. As devote Christian faithful, Mrs. Ewonemen believed in the power to do the miraculous and therefore she never complained any time the unexpected happens. But fate as usual has a way of

foisting on individuals strange happenings that often expose them to some oddities. Indeed, one can’t know the level of a man’s presumed steeliness or better put hardness till he or she is hit by sudden and strange occurrence. That was the situation Ewonemen found herself two weeks ago when the unexpected struck her business premises on August 24. She had woken up and said her prayers with a strong faith and hope that the day would turn her sweat into sweet and fruitful end. But that was never to be. She was in her apartment in the early hours of the fateful day when distress calls came, alerting her of a fire outbreak at the building complex housing her shop and several others close to the popular Aduwawa market near Upper Mission Extension junction on the busy dual carriage Benin-Auchi road in Benin, the state capital. On arrival at the spot, she could hardly recognize her shop again but met tongues of wild fire which brought everything to rubbles. She was not alone in the tragedy. Several other traders, artisans

One can’t know the level of a man’s presumed steeliness, or better put, hardness till he or she is hit by sudden and strange occurrence

and residents living and doing one business or the other close market had sad tales to tell from the disaster from fuel tanker explosion. The victims, no doubt, bemoaned their fate as millions of Naira worth of wares, vehicles, houses and other valuables went up in flames. Findings showed that the ugly incident occurred at about 7:10am as a truck laden with premium motor spirit, PMS, fell down following a deep and dangerous spot that has been a nightmare to motorists at the popular Upper Mission extension Junction of the Aduwawa end of the dual carriage Benin-Auchi road. It is now under reconstruction by the Federal Government. It was learnt that the driver of the truck, whose identity could not be established was making a U-turn as he raced from Auchi end of the road at the junction when it ran into the deep bad spot which forced the spring of the vehicle’s shock absorber holding the front tyre to pull off, a development that made the truck to empty its content as it fell down at the centre of the road. What the consequence left behind could better be imagined than expressed. Six vehicles, eight houses, generating sets and other property estimated at several millions of Naira went with the fire as the explosion from petrol tanker festered across the length and breadth of the area. Eye witnesses

said that moments the truck fell, all the petrol contained in the long tank poured on the ground which prompted some nearby residents to scoop the spilled petroleum product while others scampered for safety. A witness who did not want to mention his name said residents and shop owners, especially, occupants of all the nearby buildings close to the scene, most of whom were yet to open their shops and houses were quickly alerted about the unfortunate incident and the imminent danger as well as to evacuate available property in sight from possible fire outbreak. But it was too late to call. According to him, “As the truck was making U-turn, it’s spring pulled off and the weight of the product in the vehicle was on one side which made the truck to fall before the product started throwing off. In the process, some people here (buildings and shops) were alerted while some of them were yet to open for business when suddenly we heard big ball of fire started and take over the entire places here.” Some persons were said to have sustained varying degrees of burns when fire exploded from the truck. When our Correspondent visited the scene of the fire disaster at about 10:35 am, there were charred remains of eight vehicles, including the truck, buildings, generating sets belonging to a family of three deaf and dumb vulcanizers and a lady hairdresser as well as burnt ashes of wares belonging to traders who own shops amongst the affected buildings within the area. There was heavy traffic gridlock along the road while a crowd of sympathizers besieged the area, although fire fighters from the state fire service and security agencies were quickly deployed to the troubled spot. The arrival of the security personnel helped to bring the chaotic situation under control as fire fighters battled to put off the raging fire. Three residential and five buildings housing several lock up stores loaded with wares such as House paints, food stores, restaurants, Electronics among others were completely destroyed in the process. An officer of the state Fire Service who gave his name as Mr Agbonlahor Franklin, said “I had a distress call at about 08:01 pm this morning that there was a fire and you know that anything involving fuel is always highly inflammable, and that’s exactly what happened. As soon as the truck fell, the products were now flowing to this building because its sloppy and now we had a lot of fuel and fume in the vicinity. He stated that, “A vehicle was plying the road and ignored the warning signal from security men who were flagging him down and as a result of that, there was possible ignition and CO NTINUED O N PAGE 22

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

A thought for senior citizens Clement James Calabar

hen a man clocks 60, he celebrates this milestone with friends and well wishers. At this time and in most cases, he might still be agile but with a regimented pattern of life that will help in increasing life expectancy. However, at 70 and above, activities reduce and rest is recommended most of the times. Unfortunately, most Nigerian senior citizens often feel the pangs of poverty at this time because the energy to struggle has waned and their expectations are so limited that all they do is wait on divine home calling. In some countries of the world, government has a social safety net to cushion the effect of old age and allow senior citizens age with grace. This gesture is important as senior citizens, especially those who had served society at various points in their lives, also feel a sense of integration and acceptance. However in Nigeria, senior citizens beg to live and they live in the most unsavoury conditions, wallowing in squalor, abject poverty and other degrading conditions which often facilitate their quick passage to the world beyond. With the excruciating economic situation in the country, and the carefree life-style of many children, senior citizens have not only been neglected, they have also been condemned to destitution. Even governments, both at federal and state levels, have not looked the way of these citizens, who once invested their youthful energies and talents in the service of this country. Or how else would one describe a situation where gratuities of senior citizens have become an issue

The joy of the moment was indescribible, just as their appreciation was discernible

of late, with government watching with deaf ears as these old men and women struggle to walk in the streets to protest their unpaid entitlements. Even those who are still agile and working, their salaries have been erratic, with some state governments owing as many months as possible. Interestingly, the minimum wage which all stakeholders agreed on a round table, has been enmeshed in controversy with some state governments favouring reduction, even when the economic situation bites harder than when the minimum wage became effective. And if regular workers who have a vibrant union are treated with disdain, one can imagine what senior citizens, who do not have the power to call for strike are passing through. It was for this reason that many people trooped to the Christian Central Chapel International (CCCI) in Calabar at the weekend to witness what many described as the mother of all celebrations. These old people, many of them looking quite younger than their age, all gaily dressed, took to the dance floor with gaiety to celebrate two years of unbroken payment of what the Presiding Bishop of the church, Bishop Emmah Gospel Isong described as “minimum wage.” The celebration, which was joined by other members of the church and invitees was carefully planned and executed as younger people lined up the aisle, a short distance from the nave which is separated by piers, to allow the senior citizens dance with unforgettable steps into the church hall. The joy of the moment was indescribable, just as their appreciation was discernible. This excitement was not only because they lived to see the evening of this celebration, but because they wanted to show ap-

preciation to the Bishop, who not only pays their stipends, but also ensures that any member of the church from age 70 gets medical attention which bill is paid by the church. In fact, it is the policy of the church, according to the Bishop, to ensure that during any counselling sessions, senior citizens of the church are given priority attention above others. And in case there is any medical outreach, every other person lines up behind them. Only after they are tested and attended to before others take their turn. And for this reason, they decided to have their evening in appreciation of life from God and good health, courtesy of the church. On the motivation to pay old people in his church, Bishop Isong said he was concerned by the fact that most of them were left to fend for themselves even when some of them had no tangible means of income. According to him, since everybody is expected is to grow old, leaving the aged behind was not only unscriptural, but also against morality. “As a pastor of a church, seeing these old people come around so frequently to the church elicited joy in me. But most importantly, I began to think of a possible way to ensure that their welfare is taken care of. That was why I established a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) to ensure that they get at least the minimum wage and medical attention whenever they are sick,” said Bishop Isong. He however, explained that before one could be registered as a beneficiary, he must be known “as a worshipper in the church.” Another condition, he said, is that the intended beneficiary must present his birth certificate or alternatively, an affidavit from the court. “Once you are registered, you start to benefit from the gesture

immediately. But to ensure that everyone pays his tithe, this will be taken from source and the remaining amount is handed over to you. So, all the about thirty of them who are currently registered normally go home with at least N18,000.” While calling on good spirited individuals, governments and organizations to assist the church, Bishop Isong said the church can accommodate other members of the public if it receives outside support. He noted that since every family is bound to have at least one senior citizen, supporting the church to fulfill its obligation to the aged goes beyond politics, ethnic bias or religious sentiments. “We believe that we can do more if we receive support from outside. For now, we are generating the money from within the church and that is why we are zeroing in on our members. But taking care of the aged is everybody’s responsibility and we will not hesitate to extend the gesture to those outside if we receive enough support.” The Presiding Bishop of CCCI maintained that taking care of the senior citizens has blessed the church as their advice has become invaluable. According to him, the joy and confidence they now exude has made them to serve God without reservation, noting that their presence in the church was an encouragement to the younger people. “One thing that we do is that the moment we have proof that you are 70, irrespective of whether you are a Minister or a public servant, we simply place you on our minimum wage. It is left for you to collect the money and give it to someone else. This has encouraged them and they in turn have encouraged younger people in the church, who now believe that when they get old, they will not spend their time in penury,” the Bishop said.

When death, destruction came visiting C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 1

Ewonemen lamenting her lost

that was how the fire started and there was now explosion which was so devastating. But thank God the men were here timely and were able to put everything under control.” The official added that, “a lot of people sustained various degrees of injuries”, but added that, “on the interim, there are about six vehicles, including the truck, several lock up stores that are burnt”. Ewonemen ,a restaurant owner said, “As I was selling this morning with my children we saw the truck trying to reverse and suddenly the truck fell and fuel started rushing out of the truck towards the direction of my store. The children and I were running shouting.” She stated that, “now the fire that started has destroyed my shop, all the food stuffs, everything that we had prepared for our customers have been destroyed. This store is my life and only source of livelihood”. Also, another victim, Mr. Imafidon Iyoma (dealer

on paints) said an estimated goods worth over N2.5million was consumed by the evil fire from the truck. He pleaded for government quick intervention to save him and other victims from their sudden fate and agony. He stated that, “someone called me to say my shop and that of others was in fire and I rushed down to see that all I have laboured for has been destroyed.” He added, “Well, I don’t have much to say other than that the government should investigate the owners of the truck, but we know that the truck carried NNPC logo. So, for now, we are waiting to see that the government does something before it can lead to another critical condition because people will see that this person has done well. Outside the products, I also lost about N150, 000 that I left in the store,” he added. The victims have since cried out to the state government and other relevant bodies to come to their aid following the huge loses.

Furthermore they urged the Federal Government to fast track the construction work on the road which work was initially awarded but abandoned by the past PDP led government of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan. Motorists have for months bemoaned the deplorable state of the Benin-Auchi-OkeneAbuja road which sections cut off while armed robbers and kidnappers cash in on the poor state to wreak havoc on unsuspecting members of the public who ply the route on daily basis. Besides, it is also instructive that owners of heavy duty trucks must as a matter of safety out their vehicles in good use as most residents living along the roads including that of Benin-Auchi-Abuja road fall victim when accidents involving such trucks occur. It must be reminded too that drivers plying the road and other with long trucks must know that life has no duplicate and are expected to be safety conscious at all times.

THURSDAY, September 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Insight

Lagos High Court Complex, Ikeja.

PHOTOS: TONY EGUAYE

Touts: Lords of Lagos courts FOLUSO OGUNMODEDE writes on the thriving business of affidavit in Lagos courts

e was driving on Lagos roads when his vehicle was flagged down first by the Vehicle Inspection Officials, who demanded his particulars. Adeniyi Adebayo, a banker, was already lost in thought having realised that he had no documents to prove his ownership of the Toyota Avensis he was driving. First, his defence was untenable as the officials reeled out a series of offences allegedly committed, ranging from driving without driving licence to stolen vehicle. Apparently confused, he remembered that he had deposed to an affidavit of loss of documents. But a presentation of the affidavit to the enforcement agents did not bail Adebayo out of the ‘alleged criminal offence’ as the affidavit turned out to be fake. He was immediately charged and convicted under the Lagos Traffic Laws. Bola, a journalist was lucky. His plea with another fake affidavit on his arrest led to the arrest of the ‘producer’ of the affidavit at the Ikeja High Court where the affidavit was discovered to have been procured by a tout. Although he was fined by the

officials for parading a fake document, the tout was whisked away. These are among other experiences which have become of Lagos residents over the years in respect of procuring affidavits in courts. In the two divisions of the Lagos High Court -Ikeja and the Igbosere - and the magistrates’ courts, touting in Lagos courts is a thriving business. Unlike other areas like passport office where it is visible, it is not strange to see sea of heads, both young and old, at the courts’ gate, raking the judiciary of huge revenue. This, although was not achievable without a connivance between the touts and some court’s officials, Lagos judiciary losses an average of N20 million in revenue to touts, a source confided in New Telegraph. Last month, three septuagenarian siblings were jailed for forging court’s stamp and seal. At the Ikeja Division of the High Court, fake affidavit is a thriving business as scores of ‘touts’ accost a first timer or visitor to the court on the court’s premises with their agents scouting for prospective ‘customers’ outside the gate. What would not make an innocent visitor to suspect a foul play is because it is happening right on the court premises, about five steps from the Area ‘F’ Police Headquarters. “I was not suspicious because the guy took me to one of the courtrooms to relax while he went to the registry. A few minutes later, he resurfaced, having paid him N3,000,” Bola said. “Do you need an affidavit for

Those who cannot pay us can follow the due process

the loss of a document, driving licence, a letter of administration to property of a deceased relation? Is it a death certificate for a deceased relation, or an affidavit of ill health to escape punishment in your place of work, or for excuse duty? “Is it tax clearance or international passport quickly? Even, if it is land documents that look original.” All these are one’s encounter as visitors approach any of the Lagos courts right from the gate. For the Ikeja High Court and the adjoining Old Secretariat and other government agencies, the Ebute Meta Magistrate’s Court, otherwise known as the Botanical Garden, Igbosere and others: welcome to the world of touts. Notwithstanding how one may want it; original or fake, in record time prospective ‘customers’ will get it faster whether “normal” or “official” procedure; it is all a matter of the highest bidder. For instance, you can get your driving licence within a day, provided you can pay double the official amount. Death certificate and letters of administration can also be arranged in a jiffy. Procuring affidavits is not a big deal. One does not even need to appear before a Commissioner for Oaths as the law stipulates. A tout can always fill in the gap. Nobody can say precisely when the menace of touting on the premises of Lagos State High Court - the Ikeja High and the Magistrate’s Courts actually began but what is not in doubt is that despite efforts by the authorities of the judiciary, this

social problem has continued unabated. The thriving business of fake affidavits in Lagos courts has become worrisome, undermining the sanctity of the judiciary arm of government as procurement of affidavits and documents has assumed a commercial dimension, as touts and court officials do brisk business by trading with the legal document, irrespective of the veracity of the contents and provisions of the law. For an affidavit to be issued, certain requirements and provisions of the law must be complied with. But such stipulations are being circumvented by the day by touts and court officials, who brazenly bend the rules and rob the system of millions of Naira in the process. For instance, to get an affidavit for age declaration, it is the law that no declarant under the age of 50 years is permitted to swear to an affidavit personally except such fellow comes along with an older person such as the mother, the father, an uncle or an elder brother, who would inform the Commissioner for Oaths about his knowledge of the time the declarant was born as well as provide other necessary data about the prospective declarant. But these provisional requirements are being circumvented as Commissioner for Oaths signs declarations without following stipulated procedure. This is also the case with other documentations in the court CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

INSIGHT

THURSDAY, September 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Entrance to the Lagos High Court CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

such as loss of items, driving licence and change of name. The consequence of this is that anyone could simply falsify his or her age or any declaration and still get it signed in court. This is why Adebayo and Bola became victims as both were arrested for parading fake affidavits which unknown to them were fake until they were apprehended by the police. Nevertheless, the business is thriving though worsened as touts continued to milk innocent people by issuing them fake affidavits. These touts make thousands of naira everyday signing these fake documents with their own stamps, yet security operatives look the other way. In the past, court authorities tried to solve the problem by arresting touts and their collaborators who are court officials. The effort to some extent significantly checked the malaise. Although the judiciary is aware of this flourishing business following its receipt of a series of complaints, it has been inviting the Lagos State Government Environment and Special Offences Task Force to carry out raids on the touts. New Telegraph investigation revealed that not less than four major raids were carried out by the task force early this year with determination to rid the court premises of touts. Some of the arrested touts are facing prosecution but this has not stopped the thriving business of affidavits as a visit to the court last week also shown that touts had taken over the Ikeja premises of the High Court. It is obvious that touts keep multiplying after each raid as there was always a lull after each raid, although the touts seemed to have formed a cartel to carry out the illicit trade of procuring both genuine and fake court affidavits and police reports, among others, for those who want ‘express service.’ Investigation revealed that authentic documents are those obtained when the touts act as go-between for the customers to obtain authentically signed and stamped documents from the approved court officials. The fake ones are those imprinted with unofficial stamps and signatures forged by the touts.

High Court of Lagos building

Thriving business of touting It appeared that the majority of the activities of the touts involve the former method as only a sector within the larger syndicate uses the second approach of using fake stamps and signatures. It was also learnt that the cartel had outlawed the use of fake stamps as it had a damaging effect on their business. Investigations further revealed that these touts have access to some senior members of the judiciary as well as officers in the Area ‘F’ Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja, a fact which facilitates the smooth running of the thriving business. But one wonders why Commissioner for Oaths will continue to sign documents without looking into the enabling laws on documents. For instance, a former Chief Judge, Justice Adetula Alabi, made it mandatory for deponents to attach their passport photographs to the affidavit. This alone should have eliminated touting as the Commissioner for Oaths is expected to see face to face a deponent to an affidavit at least to afford the commissioner to ask necessary questions. Years after Alabi’s retirement, touts have returned as there are not less than 100 touts, consisting of a majority of agile young girls, men and women in the courts. They mill round prospective ‘clients’, openly soliciting affidavits and documents among others for a fee above the official charges. They are visible from the Ikeja Roundabout, through to the General Hospital, Ikeja, to the gate of the courts, in the process turning themselves into a nuisance just as the touts also help their clients to obtain police reports and produce other fake documents, including forged bills of lading, marriage certificates and vehicle licence. The amount a tout charges on an affidavit depends on whether a person had come with a prepared document. A tout charges between N2,500 and N3,000 on an already typed affidavit which costs between N200 and N500 before the Commissioner for Oaths which would only need the signature of the Commissioner for Oaths. But if the touts would help you type

Atilade

Desist from patronising or transacting businesses with touts

as well as sign, you must pay between N700 and N1,000. However, stakeholders have expressed worry as such is only noticeable in Lagos courts. A lawyer, Mr. Gbadegesing Akinola, who spoke to New Telegraph, said it was a commonplace in Lagos courts. “This does not exist anywhere whether in Abuja, Port Harcourt or elsewhere,” he said. But the Lagos State judiciary has denied any complicity with its members of staff. The Judiciary Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Mrs. G. Alo, said touting in Lagos courts had no link with court officials as the offence was only being done outside court premises. According to Alo, the judiciary was helpless in taming the activities of touts as it had no control over what happened outside the premises since its internal mechanism was targeted at its members of staff. She said: “I wish to debunk the allegation that touting is done on the court premises and specifically by officials of the state judiciary. This is not true. The state judiciary is made up of dedicated staff, working tirelessly to ensure

that justice is dispensed as fast as possible to the public. “The Lagos State judiciary has put in place available machineries to checkmate allegations of touting among its staff. The Hon Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade, in a move to ensure a more effective, accessible and transparent judiciary, has posted magistrates to head the various units in the courts. “The units are Probate, Deputy Sheriff, Litigation and Official receiver at the Lagos and Ikeja courts. These heads of units are working under the supervision of the Chief Registrar. They have all put in place measures to eliminate touting, treat correspondences emanating from their various units and demystify the court filing processes. “For example, at the probate units, procedures for grants of letters of administration are followed without fear or favour to any applicant. Same applies to other units within the state judiciary. “The Lagos State judiciary cannot in any way vouch for touting all in the name of justice done outside its court’s premises as we do not have control over them. “My advice to the public is to desist from patronising or transacting businesses with touts within or outside the court premises. Feel free to walk into the court and transact legitimately. For example, N250 is paid as litigation fee for affidavits and a receipt is issued immediately. Any member of staff who takes more than this must be brought before the authorities. This is the position of the state judiciary.” One of the touts, who gave his name as Michael James, said the business around the courts was not new in anyway. He said: “We give out genuine documents to people. We are here to help facilitate the movement of the papers and save the time of those who are in a hurry to get things done. It also happens in other areas like immigration too. How do people obtain international passports? “Those who cannot pay us can follow the due process which could take a whole day or even more.”

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Industry

Business LOSSES Over 77 per cent of hitherto active lines on Visafone have become redundant in first seven months of the year

Manufacturing: Still grappling with recession

eWorld Mobilising industry for ITU World 2016

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport, Mallam Sabiu Zakari; Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika and DirectorGeneral, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Usman Muktar, during a stakeholders’ meeting by Sirika and management of aviation in Lagos.

The Business Desk Ayodele Aminu

Deputy Editor (Business)

Bayo Akomolafe

Asst. Editor (Maritime)

Sunday Ojeme

Asst. Editor (Insurance)

Tony Chukwunyem

Asst. Editor (Money Market)

Dayo Ayeyemi Property Editor

Communications Commission (NCC). It was gathered, however, that between the January acquisition and end of May, over 1.6 million subscribers had dumped MTNowned Visafone network. According to official data, from 2.147 million active lines in January, total CDMA subscriptions on Visafone thunderously crashed to less than one-fourth, 487,141 lines. The decline, which represents a loss of over 1.6 million subscribers in a spate of five months, is equivalent to over 77 per cent loss on CDMA subscriptions in the country. Meanwhile, latest official data for the month of July released by the NCC showed that further decline in CDMA subscriptions on Visafone had been recorded between May and July. According to the data, from 487,14 active lines in May, CDMA subscriptions fell to 454, 092 in June and 371,613 in July. With the development, analysts say it has become clear that MTN was not interested in retaining and managing existing voice subscribers on the acquired network.

MTN focus, according to industry pundits, is in other juicy asset of the CDMA network, especially the spectrum that allows MTN to offer Fourth Generation (4G) Long Term Evolution (LTE) services in the broadband space. In Nigeria, while subscription on global system for mobile communications (GSM) networks including Globacom, MTN, Airtel and Etisalat currently stand at over 150 million as at July this year, CDMA and fixed lines were 371,613 and 164,114 respectively. But speaking on Visafone acquisition, MTN had declared that the acquisition was to leverage resources for service enhancement by MTN, especially in the area fast Internet service delivery. “Visafone acquisition, for us, was a reflective of the company’s concerted efforts to deepen the growth and rollout of broadband services across the country,” MTN Executive, Amina Oyagbola, said last January. According to Oyagbola, the acquisition of the CDMA network was in support of the National Broadband Plan, for the benefit of Nigerians. She said: “We are committed to exploring avenues for meeting our

INFLATION RATE July 2016.................................17.3% June 2016...............................16.5% May 2016............................15.6%

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

Adeola Yusuf Aviation Editor

Chris Ugwu

Capital Market Editor

Abdulwahab Isa Finance Editor

Taiwo Hassan Kunle Azeez

Senior Correspondent Energy

Nnamdi Amadi Reporter

Johnson Adebayo

Asst Production Editor

Being the total number of active phone lines in Nigeria as at last February

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

EXCHANGE RATE

WHAT'S NEW

EXCHANGE RATE

(Parallel Market September 2)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N420 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N540 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N466

l Foreign Reserves – $25.363bn as at 2/9/2016

Industry, Agric & Brands Editor

Chuks Onuanyin

146 million

customers’ increasing data needs in line with our vision ‘to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world to our customers.’ “As we work to maximise our data capabilities towards achieving broadband of international quality, our objective is to ensure that Nigerians experience a boost in the quality of broadband Internet services. This will translate to the much needed enhanced data speeds and value to enhance personal and business productivity. “The acquisition of Visafone highlights MTN’s commitment to Nigeria. More capacity will facilitate enhanced product/service offerings and experience in the data space to the delight of our valued customers.” However, while Oyagbola maintained, “voice is still king,” suggesting MTN would support existing voice subscribers on Visafone network, official data obtained from the regulator have proven otherwise. At the beginning of second quarter, MTN had declared that the primary motivation for Visafone acquisition was to obtain the 800Mhz spectrum frequency of the country’s only surviving CDMA operator, to offer LTE services. LTE is the 4G technology platform that offers very high-speed internet delivery to telecoms consumers above what 2G and 3G services currently offer

Rates Dashboard

Energy Editor

Wole Shadare

Nigeria’s CDMA lines sink deeper to 371,613

Kunle Azeez he number of active telephone lines on the MTNacquired code division multiple access operator, Visafone, in the nation’s telecommunications industry has further crashed to 371,613, New Telegraph has learnt. Drastic fall in CDMA subscriptions on Visafone network had set in since the beginning of this year, following successful acquisition by MTN Nigeria last January. Though, there was expectation by the industry that the take-over of the CDMA network by a much bigger and healthy operator such as MTN would have revived the former’s operations, MTN has not shown genuine interest that it was interested in developing the CDMA network’s voice service. Initially, over three-fourth of MTN’s Visafone-acquired subscribers, 77 per cent of the total at acquisition, have dumped the CDMA operator within five months, spanning January to May, this year, following the acquisition. Last January, for instance, when MTN announced its final acquisition of Visafone, the CDMA network had about 2.14 million active subscribers on its network, according to official data obtained from the Nigerian

(Interbank as at Septemnber 2)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N314.77 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N401 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N341

Source: CBN

Poor allocation, indebtedness threaten agric insurance

Terminal operator loses 90% business to economic recession

p.26

BUSINESS |NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Poor allocation, indebtedness threaten agric insurance ATTACK Some commercial farmers in May declared state of emergency over the outbreak of disease that destroyed over 80 per cent of tomato farms

Sunday Ojeme

he desire by the Federal Government to diversify the economy from oil to agriculture is currently under threat due to former’s poor allocation to the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC) and indebtedness to the agency by some state governments. NAIC, a government insurance agency, which had existed for years as the only firm offering insurance cover to farmers, operates on government subsidy as a way to encourage agriculture. Findings by New Telegraph revealed that the agency had been struggling in the past years to meet up with its operations due to financial constraints, a development that is likely to make it difficult to respond adequately to challenges in the course of planned economic diversification. As part of its obligations, NAIC subsidises the premiums chargeable on selected crops and livestock policies from the grants obtained from federal

L-R: Imo State Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere; Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), Mrs. Adejoke Adefulire and Deputy Chief of Staff, Imo State Liaison (Abuja) & External Affairs, Hon. Mma NzeribeMichaels, after a meeting at the Bullet House, Federal Secretariat, Abuja.

and state governments as well Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. It also encourages institutional lenders to lend more for agricultural production having regard to the added security for their loans provided by the corporation. This is in addition to promoting increased agricultural production generally by minimising or eliminating the need for ad-hoc assistance previously provided by governments during agricultural disasters among others. The corporation’s desire to meet these mandates especially vis-à-vis the planned diversifica-

Nigeria’s CDMA lines sink deeper to 371,613 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

in the market. Reacting, Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, said the decline in the number of subscribers on Visafone after MTN’s acquisition of the CDMA entity might be as a result of “the feeling of uncertainty” on the part of the subscribers but added that causes needed to be ascertained. “We may not be able to ascertain why the drastic decline until a painstaking effort is made to actually find out from both the subscribers’ and MTN’s perspectives. It is also possible that the regulator can tell us reasons for the decline. “However, what we all know and which MTN had also talked about is that the juicy spectrum resource of Visafone was an attraction for the acquisition, as through it MTN was able to get additional spectrum to

deploy broadband services. “But that is not to say that the MTN should not maintain existing subscribers on Visafone network to generate revenue. That is why I felt there is a need to find out first, possible reasons for the crash in the subscriptions from over 2 million to less than 500, 000,” Adebayo said. In the same vein, President, Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Mr. Olusola Teniola, said: “What I know is that no operator is happy when subscribers are leaving its network. I want to believe MTN will, as a business, strategize on how to retain the customers on the CDMA network.” He added: “Time would tell if MTN was interested in maintain the voice subscribers on Visafone network, in addition to the latter’s data platform, or not.”

tion programme by the Federal Government is dipping, according to findings. In a chat with our correspondent, a reliable source at the corporation’s office in Abuja, said government needed to do more as regards funding the agency as only N13 million allocations was received as subsidy last year. The source said that the poor allocation had also been made worse by several state governments that are indebted to the agency, adding that with only three months to the end of the year, nothing had been given to the agency as subsidy. While advising government to cut down on the intervention

funds given to farmers who lose their crops or whatever to crisis, the source said that farmers should rather be encouraged to take insurance instead of waiting for such intervention. He said: “Most farmers, who ordinarily should patronise insurance fail to do so because they believe if anything happens to them, government will intervene by giving them some money to assuage their losses. “The truth is that it should not be so. The more government intervenes, the more the farmers would be reluctant to insure his farm. If they know that nothing would be given them in the event of loss, they will be com-

pelled to insure their crops.” Surprisingly, the source noted that farmers, whose tomato plantations were affected by a major pest earlier in the year, did not insure their crops despite several efforts made by the corporation to get them involved. The source said: “Government should enhance the capital base of NAIC. It should also make insurance compulsory for the farmers. “Despite the perceived shortcomings, we are still being driven by the desire to be outstanding with our never say die attitude by exploring commercial approach to what we do.”

Terminal operator loses 90% business to economic recession Over 6,000TEUs space redundant MELTDOWN Concessionaire faces low business activity, high cost of doing business at container terminal

Bayo Akomolafe

s weeds and rats took over the Lilypond Container Terminal, Ijora, the volume of import coming into the terminal has dropped by 90 per cent due to the current economic recession in the country. The terminal was concessioned to Lilypond Container Depot Nigeria Limited (LCDNL) in 2006 by the Federal Government for a 10-year period, but currently it is operating below capacity. Strategically located four kilometres from the Lagos Port, the container terminal provides a capacity of 7,000 Twenty Equivalent units (TEUs) and space of 120,000 square meters. Already, the concessionaire had invested N3billion to upgrade

the terminal in the areas of safety, capacity building, equipment, Information Communication Technology (ICT) but currently all the equipment are idled. Some of the equipment at rest include forklifts, cranes, mobile crane, trucks, trailers and other building infrastructures. It was learnt that capacity utilisation at the Lagos Port was responsible for the terminal woes. Trouble started in 2013, when the concessionaire was considering the option of winding up its operation after losing over N500million due to inactivity caused by low container volume. However in 2014, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and other stakeholders intervened to ensure that the company did not fold up. Currently, the Lagos Port, which is feeding the terminal with containers, is also experiencing low volume of imports since last year due to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s forex restriction on 41 items, which has had negative impact on imports. It would be recalled that in 2014, Logistics Manager of the company, Tristram Denyer, said that apart

from the concession fee paid to the Federal Government in 2006, the firm in 2011 recorded cargo throughput of 47,000 Twenty Equivalent Units (TEUs). However, the logistics manager said that he does not expect to see a return of this situation in the foreseeable future. Other major key challenges include the cost of power supply, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) fees, salaries and equipment maintenance. Also, it was learnt that inflation and depreciation of the naira have eroded its earnings by over 300 per cent. A source at the company told New Telegraph that government policies had contributed to idleness at the terminal. According to him, there had been a loss in the dollar value of the terminal handling charges because of the wek local currency. It was revealed that the terminal operator had lost potential revenue when yearly Terminal Handling Charges (THC), is converted to dollars. Also the source explained that the THC value which was $211 in 2006 was higher than THC value of $138 in February 2016.

THURSDAY, september 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

InDUSTRY

Plank factory

With the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS)’s reports that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) declined by -2.06 per cent (year-onyear) in real terms at the end of the second quarter of this year, manufacturers still have a lot to grapple with to stay afloat. TAIWO HASSAN reports

t is no longer news that the NBS confirmed that the country’s economy was now in recession. Obviously, the report does not look palatable for the country’s manufacturing firms, as the report had heightened business uncertainty among them. No doubt, a number of manufacturing firms are already in the red, as they find it difficult to cope with the harsh economic situation in the country. NBS report According to the Statistician General of NBS, Dr. Yemi Kale, in the second quarter (Q2) of 2016, the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) declined by -2.06 per cent (year-on-year) in real terms. According to him, this is lower by 1.70 per cent points from the growth rate of -0.36 per cent recorded in the preceding quarter and also lower by 4.41 per cent points from the growth rate of 2.35 per cent recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2015. Kale added that quarter on quarter, real GDP increased by 0.82 per cent. During the quarter, nominal GDP was N23.483 million (in nominal terms) at basic prices. To him, this was 2.73 per cent higher than the Q2 2015 value of N22.859 million. Consequently, the statistician general noted that this growth was lower than the rate recorded in the Q2 of 2015 by 2.44 per cent points. He stressed that the economy could be more clearly understood,

Manufacturing: Still grappling with recession according to oil and non-oil sector classifications. While speaking on the manufacturing sector’s scorecard in the second quarter, Kale said that there were 13 activities in the manufacturing sector. They are oil refining, cement, food, beverages and tobacco, textile, apparel and footwear, wood and wood products, pulp paper and paper products, chemical and pharmaceutical products. Others are non-metallic products, plastic and rubber products, electrical and electronic, basic metal and iron and steel, motor vehicles and assembly and other manufacturing. He pointed out that nominal GDP growth in manufacturing in Q2 was recorded at negative 1.02 per cent (year-onyear), 1.09 per cent points lower than the 0.07 per cent recorded in the corresponding period of 2015. According to him, this is partly as a result of higher operating costs related to higher costs of inputs and alternative energy sources. The NBS boss explained that growth was 1.96 per cent points higher than the Q1 of 2016, when it was 2.98 per cent. In addition, the contribution of manufacturing to Nominal GDP was 8.95 per cent in the Q2 of 2016, lower than the contributions of 9.29 per cent recorded in the corresponding period of 2015, and 9.33 per cent in the Q1 of 2016. “In the Q2 of 2016, Real GDP growth in the manufacturing sector was negative 3.36 per cent, which was 0.45 per cent points higher than the growth rate recorded in Q2 of 2015. Growth was also 3.64 per cent points better than the rate recorded in the Q1 of 2016, indicating that conditions for manufacturers were improving. “On a quarter-on-quarter basis, the sector declined slightly by 0.20 per cent. The contribution of manufacturing to real GDP was 9.42 per

Many local manufacturers have stopped production lines since they cannot cope with the harsh business climate

cent in the Q2 of 2016, lower than is imperative to avoid unintended 9.55 per cent recorded in the cor- consequences, which may hurt the responding period of 2015, and 9.33 economy in very profound ways. per cent in Q1 2016,” Kale added. “Such is the recent suspension of nine banks from the forex LCCI’s reaction market. These are shocks that For the Lagos Chamber of the economy can ill afford at this Commerce and Industry (LCCI), time. It is right to penalise banks perhaps the major challenge fac- for proven infractions, but this ing the Nigerian economy at this should be done in a way to minitime is the inability to regain the mise collateral effects on investors confidence of investors, both local and the larger economy, given the and foreign. high sensitivity of the economy The chamber added that regret- to developments in the foreign extably, the instability and inconsis- change market. “This is even more so at a time tency in foreign exchange management policy had been complicating when the economy is grappling matters. with a major confidence issue in According to LCCI, the econo- the forex market. There should be my has a major structural defect more creative and less disruptive of being heavily import depen- ways of imposing such sanctions. dent. This cannot be fixed in the “Many innocent investors and short term. citizens are already bearing the Therefore, the shocks arising brunt of this action, given the from the collapse of oil price and unprecedented hike in naira exthe corresponding depreciation in change rate.” the naira exchange rate are ineviSnags in production table. But the policy responses could Already, the multiplier effects make a whole lot of difference in of government policy summerthe profundity of the impacts of saults have impaired adversely these shocks on the economy and on the growth and development in the citizens. the industrial sector, as many local Speaking with New Telegraph, manufacturers have stopped their the Director-General, LCCI, Muda production lines since they cannot Yusuf, stated that historically, au- cope with the business climate. tonomous supply of foreign exConsequently, these have rechange had been higher than the sulted to doubling in high cost of CBN supply. But this has virtually source of raw materials, increase dried up because of the collapse of in production, increase in food investor confidence. stuff/items, high energy bills, hike He stressed that the plunge in in PMS/AGO/natural gas, scarcity crude oil price was a major causal in forex, defaults in tax payments, factor. But perhaps the bigger issue uncertainty in foreign exchange is the unstable and inconsistent market and hike in naira exchange foreign exchange policy, which has rate at the black market. continued to create uncertainty in the forex market, thus deepening Conclusion the liquidity problems. For any manufacturer still in His words: “For an economy business, this is a challenging that is in fragile mode, and for an period in the anal of Nigeria’s economy that is highly exchange existence. No doubt, it is time rate sensitive, policy actions and government tackled the country’s pronouncements that could im- economy head-on and instill conpact the market should be done fidence in investors and manufacwith utmost caution and care. This turers.

business \ industry

THURSDAY, september 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

SON:Why more fake goods are in circulation POROUS Ninety per cent of the substandard goods still come into the country through Nigeria’s seaports

Stories Taiwo Hassan

he Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has said that it will continue to wage war against the circulation of sub-standard goods in the country, alleging that 90 per cent of these products still come through the nation’s gateways. SON’s Acting Director General, Dr. Paul Angya, disclosed this at a two-day capacity development retreat for media practitioners in Lagos. Besides, he said that influx of adulterated products has fuelled the current economic recession being experienced by Nigerians. He alleged that many importers have resorted to importation of sub-standard goods through the gateways thus, taking advantage of SON’s non-presence at the country’s seaports clearing system process. The SON boss said that Nigeria was currently facing an umpteenth economic downturn, which has fuelled the continuous spreading of

sub-standard goods across Nigerian markets. He said that the influx of such cheap sub-standard products, most of which were imported into the country by some cabals, have persistently retarded the development of the local production. According to him, Nigeria has been rendered non-productive economy hence, could not help itself easily out of the current economic downturn. However, despite all efforts to tame the illegal circulation of the substandard products,

he noted that the SON has been facing various challenges in its effort to discharge its duties effectively, adding that the oraganisation had been battling two different categories of challenges in a bid to fix the economy. One of the obstacles in its operation, according to Angya, was disallowing the SON officials to carry out their duties at the seaports. He explained that the policy guiding seaport operations did not provide adequately for SON to operate at the seaport, which is the point

Abuja

he Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) have inaugurated a committee to deal with the influx of sub-standard electrical products. Acting Director General, SON, Dr. Paul Angya, disclosed this at the inauguration of the committee in Abuja. He said the initiative to have a committee to deal with influx of poor electrical cables and substandard materials in the power sector was mooted by NEMSA. Citing the Committee’s objectives, Dr. Angya said, it would deepen collaboration by both agencies, and reduce incidences of use of substandard cables and equipment. “We should leave here with the resolve that the government will be improve its procurement process to ensure that local manufacturers who have standard products are patronised,” he added. Another objective, the SON boss said, is to ultimately protect electricity consumers by ensuring standard cables and materials are used to avoid losses of lives and properties, and huge economic

kinds of intimidation by those who indulged and benefited from the use of such products. The SON boss said the number of those constituting the cabal, was very small, putting it at about 0.0001 per cent of the entire population of the country. “When we were disallowed to inspect goods at the ports, we resulted to chasing containers on the road. Those people still accused us and tried to suppress our efforts through various means of intimidation including blackmailing,” he said.

L-R: Representative of the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Jamila Shu’ara; Acting Executive Secretary, Petroleum Technology Development Fund (Ptdf), Alhaji Ahmed Aminu and the Chairman Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstrem), Sen Tayo Alasoadura, at the first PTDF Oil Exploration and Production Companies Summit in Abuja . PHOTO: NAN

SON, NEMSA move to tackle fake electrical products Abdulwahab Isa

of entry of those goods. According to him, 90 per cent of the substandard goods came into the country through seaports,adding that it would have been easier for SON to curb the incoming of such goods at the seaports, rather than, chasing the containers on the highways within the country, which the Organisation has resulted to. Apart from this, he said, SON, in its effort to stop the activities of fake products importation and circulation to the unsuspected consumers, has been subjected to various

losses to the country. In his remarks, Managing Director of NEMSA, Engr. Peter Ewesor said the committee would help to eiminate substandard electrical instantiations and greatly minimise the spread. He said: “Contractors who indulge in such practices feel they are cheating the country but they are cheating themselves because once such equipment fails, they will be forced

to reinstall it,” he noted. The responsibility of the committee comprising five officials from SON and seven from NEMSA, is to help to trim the flow of substandard equipment and also sensitise the suppliers on the dangers they pose to the use of electricity across households. The committee was asked to draft their terms of engagement and modalities for implementing the objectives identified.

Firm commissions fire fighting truck

he National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS) has received delivery of an UltraModern Rosenbauer fire fighting truck from John Holt Plc, which was commissioned at the NAPIMS premises in Lagos. John Holt in a statement, said the truck was purchased by NAPIMS to protect lives and property and meet its Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR). Present at the commission-

Firm debuts, eyes sub-Saharan Africa

ndigenous firm- Sosaco Nigeria Limited, makers of Jago range of milks intends to expand its milk products beyond the Nigerian market to other neighbouring countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The move is in line with the management’s objective to ensure that the company’s range of diary products become one of the most recognised milk globally. Chairman, Sosaco Nigeria Limited, Francis Ogboro, disclosed these at the trade launch of its Jago Gold milk powder in Lagos. Ogboro explained that the new product offered an answer to the clarion call by Jago’s loyal customers. Be-

sides, he said the product went through intense research and deep consumer understanding. According to him, Jago Gold is available in all popular pack sizes and made from fresh cow milk with the goodness of full cream, adding that the product redefines both quality and taste. “With the introduction of new Jago Gold, Jago milk now has an offering for all segments of the packaged milk powder industry and affords our beloved consumers an opportunity to experience full cream instant whole milk powder like never before,’’ he said. Also speaking at the

event, Managing Director of Sosaco Nigeria Limited, Shailesh Kumar, asserted that Jago as a brand will continue to address the needs of its consumers who come from all segments. He said that one of the aims of the brand is to continually find innovative ways of delivering the best to its consumers. His words: “All our products are focused on all round nourishment and exceptional taste, which is why they are fully fortified vitamins and minerals to boost healthy growth. This is just another milestone towards our commitment to deliver a wide range of quality products to the consumers.”

ing of the TLF 9000/500/750 Fire Truck according to the statement, were the General Manager of John Holt Fire and Safety Solutions, Kris Nwachukwu, Rosenbauer International Engineer from Austria, Roland Loitz, the Group General Manager of NAPIMS, Engr. Dafe Sejebor and the management and staff of NAPIMS. Nwachukwu said: “The truck being commissioned is a triple agent fire truck, which has the capacity to extinguish ground fire (beneath the truck as it moves) as well as fire at upper floors. “The John Holt/Rosenbauer team does not just manufacture and deliver fire trucks to customers, but offers intensive operational training for firemen/ HSE units so as to make them fire combat ready in conformity with International standards.” Nwachukwu added that in recent times Nigerians have had a series of fire incidents in the country resulting in loss of lives and property. He said: “The time has come for us to review our policy on and approach to fire safety. We in John Holt are ready to partner with the government, corporate organisations and stakeholders in this regard using our very many years of experience and expertise.”

eWORLD

THURSDAY, september 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Mobilising industry for ITU World 2016

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced aggressive mobilisation of stakeholders in the nation’s telecoms industry for maximum participation at the forthcoming ITU Telecoms World 2016 holding in Bangkok, Thailand, in November. KUNLE AZEEZ reports

or the first time in history, the country’s telecommunication regulator, the NCC, embarked on an industry stakeholders’ forum to sensitise the industry on the significance of participating maximally at the annual International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Telecoms World. The forum, facilitated by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) planning Nigeria’s participation at this year’s edition of the programme between November 14 and 17 2016, was the first of such stakeholders’ engagement to be organised by the regulator with the purpose of mobilising the industry to participate en masse in the annual global event. Nigeria’s participation Over the years, Nigeria has participated in ITU Telecom World with the objective of showcasing ICT achievements, and opportunities for investment as well as learn from other countries. In particular, Nigeria’s attendance at the annual event has resulted in boost in collaborations between Nigerian telecoms players and their counterparts from other counties with most striking different business deals that have helped in bolstering the foreign direct investment (FDIs) inflow of the nation’s economy. This has, in turn, resulted in greater contribution of telecommunications industry to the overall gross domestic product (GDP of the country while investment, on account of wooing foreign investors into the country through such fora as ITU Telecoms World, has, today, pushed telecoms investment to over $35 billion in Nigeria. Focus of 2016 ITU World ITU Telecom World is a global ICT forum hosted annually by the ITU to bring together thought leaders, key decision makers and indus-

Danbatta

Secretary General, ITU, Mr. Houlin Zhao

try experts to share ideas to accelerate ICT innovation and the focus for ITU Telecom World 2016 is “Collaborating in a digital economy”. This is in recognition of how critical ICT innovation and international collaboration are and how they can be used as tools for social impact and national development. However, this year, Nigeria’s theme is “Smart Communities: the key to a digital Nigeria”, which emphasises ICT’s critical role for Nigeria’s socio economic development. Reason for NCC industry engagement Speaking at the forum in Lagos, Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof, Umar Danbatta, said, “We are gathered here for a simple reason today: To chart a new path, interact and collaborate with a view to creating a template that will form our narrative at the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Telecom World 2016.” Noting that although, the ICT sector had recorded very significant growth in the last 15 years, Danbatta said the country’s story of successes is very long but “we as regulators are not resting on our oars believing that we are already there.” He said the industry, over the past 15 years, has moved from a little below 500,000 active lines to the current 157 million and surpassed the 100 per cent threshold. He however, said there was still a need to con-

The event will offer the collaboration needed to further drive the Nigeria’s broadband development frontier forward

stantly look for veritable platform such as ITU to expose players in the industry to global opportunity and collaboration for better industry growth. “Teledensity has also grown to 107 per cent, Internet connectivity climbed up from 50,000 in 2001 to its current 97 million, we have over $35 billion from Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) while local investments are also in billions of dollars,” he said. Consequently, he said that recognition of the fact that the developing the country’s ICT industry still remains a work in progress has necessitated the need for the pre-ITU Telecoms World 2016 forum in Nigeria “to re-strategise on how we can attract more meaningful investments into our country.” He said: “We are here to fine-tune our story about the growth and attraction of our sector. We are here to think of ways to convince would-be investors on the potentials and capacity of our country. We are here to agree on the future growth of the telecom industry.” Key messages to Bangkok While stating that several investors have been in Nigeria and that there are projections that many more were on their way, the NCC boss said Nigeria is participating in the 2016 world telecoms forum to tell the global investment community that

Systemspecs seeks pioneer status for software industry

he federal government has been urged to grant pioneer status to the software industry as soon as possible in order to encourage homegrown software practitioners to do more for the country. The Chief Executive Officer of Systemspecs, owners of Remita electronic payment platform that runs federal government’s Treasury Single Account (TSA), Mr. John Obaro,

made this call. He spoke during a meeting with the acting Director General of National Information Technology Development Agency [NITDA], Dr. Vincent Olatunji, when NITDA team paid a working visit to Systemspecs’ headquarters in Lagos. “The software industry needs a push. The federal government should grant the software industry pioneer status

as soon as possible. This will encourage homegrown software practitioners to do more for the country, as software holds the panacea to catalyse Nigeria’s economy,” he said. Reacting, Olatunji expressed the need by the government to encourage homegrown software solutions, adding that the agency had plans to help develop IT startups. Olatunji explained that the

government has a number of investment incentives for the stimulation of private sector investment from within and outside the country. According to him, while some of these incentives cover all sectors, others are limited to some specific sectors. There is a list of 71 approved industries declared pioneer industries. Software is on the list.”

the country is safe for investors and Return on Investments (ROI) is assured. “We will tell them that our regulatory processes are open, effective and transparent. We will tell them about the growing demand for fast, stable and reliable Internet connectivity, we will tell them how the country has been receptive to investors through policies that include tax incentives and holidays, and that investors have been so encouraged that those who invested heavily in our Digital Mobile Licences (DMLs) since 2001 have never known a better yesterday. While noting that there is a a gap, which these would-be and existing investors will bridge towards boosting the quality of service on different fronts in Nigeria, the NCC boss said participation in the ITU Telecom World 2016 provides platforms for entrepreneurs to share their experiences while “operators will tell their stories and interact with policy makers and government officials in a frank manner, as no one attends ITU Telecom World and remain the same.” Wake-up calls Regardless of the current economic situation, Permanent Secretary, ministry of Communication, Arch. Sunny Echelor, who represented the Minister of Communications, Mr. Adebayo Shittu, at the Lagos forum, called for concerted efforts by all stakeholders to give the event a befitting participation, showcase their Nigerian innovations, products and services and attract new markets for their businesses. Chief Executive Officer, NigComSat Limited, Ms Abimbola Alale, urged industry players for ‘massive participation’ saying the event will offer the collaboration needed to further drive the Nigeria’s broadband development frontier into becoming a truly digital economy forward. In his submission, Vice President, Etisalat, Mr. Ibrahim Dikko, said the global event “is a once in a lifetime opportunity to tell the outside world that Nigeria telecom sector still has untapped potentials waiting to be exploited in the areas of broadband, spectrum licensing, huge human capital in software entrepreneurship, among others.” Last words Chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the Nigeria participation at the forthcoming global event, Mr. Austine Nwaulune, while stating that exhibition at the Nigerian pavilion offers participants access to over 4,000 participants from across the globe, said the Committee was working tooth and nail and would leave no stone unturned to ensure that participation by stakeholders was seamless value-driven.

business \ eWORLD

THURSDAY, september 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

ALTON condemns Communications Service Tax BURDEN Association claims there are 26 different taxes and fees already levied on mobile operators and consumers Stories: Kunle Azeez

he Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has officially condemned the proposed introduction of the Communications Service Tax (CST) bill being pushed for legislation in the National Assembly, saying it will jeopardise growth of the industry. In a position paper made available to New Telegraph, ALTON described the bill as ‘evil that must not be allowed to sail through into legislation and a disincentive to telecoms investment in the nation’s telecoms industry.’ The bill, which seeks to provide for the institution of telecommunications service tax and for matters related to it, was sponsored by Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi and Hon Bede Uchenna and co-sponsored by the Telecommunications Com-

mittee of the House of Representatives. It has since last year been sent to the Committee for Telecommunications in the House of Representatives for review. The CST will be levied on service fees payable by users of electronic communication services at nine per cent of the charge for the service and will be borne by the customers. If the bill is enacted into law, will mandate service providers to file monthly tax returns with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) with strict penalties for non-compliance.

The categories of communication services liable to the tax include voice calls, short media messages (SMS), multi-media messages (MMS), data and PayTV and users of electronic communication service and any other communication through use of wire, radio, optical or electromagnetic transmission emissions or receiving system. But speaking in a position paper, ALTON Chairman, Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, argued that high consumer taxes on communication services would impact negatively on economic and broadband development.

He said the introduction of the CST law without the harmonisation of other extant laws is likely to make the current government unpopular, as it will put pressure on the Nigerian tax system, which will make it “unattractive to investors and may also be counter-productive for targets on broadband penetration.” He advised that instead of laying untoward hardship and heavy burden on an already impoverished citizenry, “what government should be doing is coming up with policies that stimulate the economy and put measures in place to ensure a

L-R: Minister of Communications, Mr. Adebayo Shittu; Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Prof. Umar Danbatta and Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya, at the presentation ceremony of the Aso Villa Demo Day at the Aso Villa in Abuja

more efficient tax system and framework for tax compliance.” To Adebayo, a good place to start will be to review and cut down the cost of governance at all levels, stressing that the sheer magnitude of the effect of the bill, if passed into law, cannot be imagined. He said: “Today, the country has more than 83 million unique subscribers, accounting for 45 per cent of the population. As well as providing access to financial services, education and healthcare to millions of citizens, many for the first time, telecoms has also played a critical role in reducing transportation, communication and transaction costs. “Pushing up the cost to consumers, this tax will inevitably adversely impact the adoption of broadband affordability which is a key challenge in connecting the unconnected.” In addition, Adebayo said the telecom ecosystem contributed $8.3 billion in value addition to the Nigerian economy in 2014 alone, and telecom operators have supported the creation of over 164,000 jobs. He noted that telecom growth is a fundamental part of the government’s Vision 2020 plan to consolidate Nigeria’s position as one of the 20 largest economies.

NITDA offers 977 Stakeholders to tackle N780m losses to poor telecoms services tech founders iscussing the way out of The programme, being as representation from the Asso- Odekunle will be the keynote an estimated N750 mil- sponsored by Airtel Nigeria, ciation of Telecoms Companies speaker at the event with Airtel growth edge lion losses recorded by will bring together industry of Nigeria (ATCON), the As- Nigeria making another paper

he National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has used its StartUP Friday forum to provide growth and investment opportunity for 974 co-founders while 74 investors have also benefited from the platform. The Office for ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship (OIIE), a subsidiary of NITDA, responsible for providing growth opportunity for tech startups in Nigeria disclosed this in a statement. Fifth edition of StartUP Friday incorporating FutureHACK programme is scheduled to be hosted in Lagos on September 23, making it the first time Lagos would host StartUP Friday. “From hosting 73 cofounders in February 2016, StartUP Friday has hosted 974 co-founders and 74 investors,” said Acting Director General, NITDA, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, who is expected to be the special guest at the event. Also speaking, OIIE coordinator, Bunmi Okunowo, said, “Through NITDA, we have deepened the value in technology startup community by providing seed funding, mentorship, grinding sessions, access to national and global platforms for over 30 tech-driven start-ups in Nigeria.”

telecoms subscribers due to intermittent poor service quality would be the focus of discussion at a quarterly seminar series holding in Lagos this month. Already, stakeholders from public and private sectors at federal and state levels are set for the seminar series being organised by the Nigeria Information and Communication Technology Reporters’ Association (NITRA).

stakeholders to brainstorm on the theme: “The Impact of Over-Regulation of Telecoms Industry on Service Quality”. The event is billed to hold inside Osun Hall of the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos on September 16. Participants at the forum are industry regulators including the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) as well

new e-commerce platform, aniwura.com, has commenced operation in Lagos with a target to bring no fewer than 500 merchants onto its platform before the end of this year. The company is also projecting e-commerce related business volume growth of 30 per cent in the next one year through its robust multidimensional market platform and through leading innovation that is the product of several years of research and interdisciplinary collaboration. The Lagos-based e-commerce platform, which started operations in the country’s ecommerce space currently valued at over $250 billion market recently, prides itself as Africa’s first multi-dimensional set to connect businesses globally with a broad selection of products and services. Speaking recently at the prelaunch event in Lagos, the Chief

sociation of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) and Zinox Group, among others. Already, most industry stakeholders have confirmed attendance at the one-day forum to be chaired by the Chairman of ALTON, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo. The General Manager of Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Authority (LASIMRA), Mr. Babajide

eCommerce portal targets 500 merchants, 30% growth Executive Officer and founder of aniwura.com, Mrs. Iwayemi Ogomudia, said it is a portal where businesses and government entities can transact businesses for products and services and also facilitate eprocurement for government and corporate enterprises. Aniwura.com is an online multidimensional marketplace and a marketing platform for both local and global businesses, which offers Business-to-Business (B2B), Online-to-Offline (020), and the ground breaking Business-to-Government services on a “single platform” to its community. According to Ogomudia, who said the company was seeking to address what it sees as a confined demand for online purchasing, said the

portal has started the process of registering suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors on the platform in readiness for transactions. She said the platform, aside providing e-procurement solutions, also offers various categories ranging from electronics, fashion, agriculture, manufacturing and industrial equipment, IT, and services. Aniwura.com, she said, currently has 54 categories and will start to develop it subcategories after the pre-launch phase. Ogomudia said she decided to launch the marketplace after spending several years as an entrepreneur and researcher in Nigeria learning about the difficulty in sourcing products in this part of the world.

presentation on the theme of the event. The Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof Umar Danbatta, will give an overall review of the telecoms industry, the value that the sector has added to the Nigerian economy, as well and the effect of multiple regulations on service quality. The Acting Director-General of NITDA, Dr. Vincent Olatunji; President of ATCON, Engr. Olusola Teniola and Chairman, Zinox Group, Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, among other stakeholders, are expected at the seminar. Telecoms subscribers are said to be losing a whopping N750 million annually to intermittent poor service quality such as call-drops, unfair billings, and charges on Value Added Service (VAS) not subscribed to, among others. “Nigeria telecoms industry has grown significantly in the past 15 years in such a way that it is now regarded as one of the fastest-growing in the world. Nigerians telecoms has, indeed, witnessed exponential growth in the last 13 years moving from active subscriber base of 400,000 with teledensity of 0.004 per cent to active subscriber base of 149.8 million with teledensity of 107.01 per cent, as of June 2016 statistics,” said NITRA President, Mr. Emma Okonji in a statement. He noted that despite the growth, more conducive regulatory environment needed to be provided for the network so as to be able to deliver quality service for their growing subscriber base.

THURSday, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Interview ‘Contaminated blood products may trigger diseases’

Health

Nature Power Become what you choose to be

33 34

Why late treatment of malaria causes brain damage Many in this environment perceive malaria as a common ailment. Without prompt treatment, a patient’s health could deteriorate, impacting negatively on the brain, reports ELIZABETH OGUNBAMOWO A mosquito feeds on its human host

t is usual for Africans, especially Nigerians, to ignore certain signals their body gives them when it’s infected. It is not uncommon to see someone in this part of the world claim that we has malaria even when it is cancer. Most of us see Malaria as a mild sickness that we can claim illogically. You ask someone with high temperature if he is alright, he tells you, ‘I think I have malaria, I’ll just get some anti-malaria drugs on my way home”. Malaria is not a ‘small’ illness the way many view it. Extra caution should be taken to prevent mosquito’s bites especially during rainy seasons when mosquitoes would be on the increase. Though we already have an idea of what malaria is all about it is needful to make an introduction here. Malaria is a life-threatening disease that is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. Common symptoms of malaria

Appolonia Adeyemi Health Editor

appolonia.adeyemi@newtelegraphonline.com

PHOTO: en.wikipedia.org

include: shaking chills that can range from moderate to severe high fever, profuse sweating, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, anaemia, muscle pain, convulsions, coma and bloody stools. All these and many more are the symptoms some of us encounter every day and yet we do nothing. As subtle and normal as these symptoms seem, they could lead to death! Research has revealed that malaria, if not properly treated can result to life threatening diseases such as Pulmonary Edema, which refers to catarrh, cough and other nasal congestions, or failure of the kidneys, liver, or spleen, anaemia, low blood sugar and worst of all, cerebral malaria. Due to the importance of healthy living in the society, New Telegraph Health sought the opinions of medical expert on cerebral malaria, a type of malaria that isn’t of common knowledge. Speaking to the New Telegraph Health, A Professor of Community Health and a Consultant Public Health Physician in the College of Medicine University of Lagos (CMUL) Bayo Onajole, a public health consultant said, “Cerebral malaria is an escalated form of normal malaria. It is usually called severe or complicated malaria. Unlike simple or uncomplicated malaria where it’s only fever that you have, cerebral malaria is the kind of malaria that affects the brain. It actually compresses the brain tissue which is not hard and that causes severe damage or could

Water-logged environment breeds mosquitoes

Cerebral malaria has been the cause of death in Nigeria

even leads to death.” He also made it clear that since the brain controls movement, awareness and some other activities in the body, cerebral malaria also affects those activities the brain is in charge of. Onajole said cerebral malaria has been the cause of death in Nigeria especially among children under five years old. He also said that it affects those who are coming newly from outside the county whose level of immunity to malaria is very low. Speaking on how cerebral malaria can be treated and prevented, he said that early detection is key to treatment. “Usually just like treating malaria, you can treat cerebral malaria if it is discovered early. Doctors tend to administer more of quinine in treating cerebral malaria because quinine can easily pass through the blood in the brain membrane and

PHOTO: theconversation.com

penetrate there. The normal process of preventing normal malaria is the same for preventing cerebral malaria.” Speaking in similar vein, a Medical Officer, Dr. Olusegun Ojetola also revealed another shocking information about cerebral malaria. According to him, eye pain could be a symptom of cerebral malaria, though he gave other symptoms to look out for. “Common symptoms of cerebral malaria are: disorientation, obstruction of consciousness level, affected patients becoming so weak such that if you try to wake them up, they refuse to wake up and would seem to be dead. They could also have convulsions, that is, seizures, some have tremor. They could suddenly start to shake in most parts of their body CONT INU E D ON PAGE 32

Health\News

Mirabel Centre: Rape, sexual assault of minors on the rise

THURSday, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Appolonia Adeyemi

ising cases of rape in the society has again been brought to the fore with revelation by the Mirabel Sexual Assault Referral Centre, that it has received 1, 812 cases of rape and sexual assault cases in three years, most of the victims were minors. This was disclosed in Lagos on Tuesday by the Managing Partner of Mirabel Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Mrs. Itoro Eze-Anaba, during the launch of “Mirabel Mobile App”, in Lagos State. According to her, the ‘Mirabel Mobile App’, which was specifically designed to tackle rape and female molestation, was the first of its kind in Nigeria. She decried the alarming rate at which sexual harassment was increasing in recent times, calling for all hands to be on deck in order to conquer the ugly trend. According to Eze-Anaba, Mirabel now receives more than 90 cases of rape and other sexual assault cases every month against the less than 80 in the previous years. For instance, she revealed that between May and June, the centre received 100 clients who came with various reports of rape and sexual assault cases.

Polluted air darkens the lungs

abies are born with pink lungs but they darken in colour as we breathe in polluted air. The lungs are responsible for removing oxygen from the air we breathe and transferring it to our blood where it can be sent to our cells. The lungs also remove carbon dioxide, which we exhale.

L-R: Akinuka Opara; Ivy Basil-Ofili; Bose Ironsi; Managing Partner of Mirabel Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Mrs. Itoro Eze-Anaba; and Alexis Adeolu at the media conference announcing the first ‘Mirabel Mobile App’, held in Lagos on Tuesday

“We are now having more cases of rape due to more reporting by the public that now speak up on the cases,” added Eze- Anaba. She stated that though, there had always been rape cases in the country, the awareness and orientation was increasing gradually, propelling survivors to come out boldly to narrate their experiences. On why children are targets, she said based on the cultural beliefs that African children should respect elders, children

have learnt to accept abnormal behaviours of adults without questioning, adding that parents and guardians should however educate their kids on sex education, especially how to protect themselves in the face of sexual assault or rape. Eze-Anaba informed journalists that among the survivors was a twoyear-old child, who was sexually molested by her close relative. Others were a 12-year-old, who was impregnated after being raped and another

13-year-old girl who contracted Vesico vaginal Fistula(VVF) after suffering rape in the hands of her neighbour. “We received a case of a man who was raping his own two daughters – minors at the same time. Pastors, imams, teachers and other adults have been caught in the act. It is so disturbing that everybody needs to get involved in the campaign,” she said. On the issue of funding for the centre, she pleaded with the Lagos

State Government, to fulfill its promises to financially sponsor the centre, revealing that it was on the verge of shutting down. She said initially, two years sponsorship was given by Partnership for Justice – United Kingdom’s organisation to kick start the centre. An additional one year funding similarly came from the same Partnership for Justice and since then, the centre has not been writing, seeking sponsorship.

Quick malaria treatment LASODA: Accessible transport, key for healthy PWDs whether blind, deaf or could avert brain damage Eleazar Nwanti physically impaired, those CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

while there’s rigidity in some people. Furthermore, they could also go into coma. Ojetola also said that cerebral malaria when not accurately treated, could lead to permanent blindness or even hearing impairment. He revealed that though it occurs all over the world, it is more common in the tropics like Africa and India, adding that it could affect any age group though it is most common in children. Also contributing, an Associate :Professor and Consultant Medical Parasitologist, Wellington Oyibo encouraged Nigerians to first of all ensure that a test is conducted on them to know if what is affecting them is truly, malaria. In his words, “people should demand for a malaria test first before treatment, it could be a Urine Malaria Test (UMT), Microscopy or Blood diagnostics.” He said after the test has been conducted, the Arthemisinin Combination

Therapies (ACTs) recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as the most efficacious in the treatment and management of malaria, should be administered on the patient. He further revealed that abusing the use of anti-malaria drugs could lead to resistance to those drugs. Are you feeling feverish, sweating profusely, or you feel weak constantly? Don’t settle for those concoctions, neither should you settle for those cheap anti-malaria medicines some of which are even expired. Expert recommends that you should go for a test today. Health is wealth.

Oyibo

n order to create an inclusive society for persons living with disability in the country, some stakeholders have sensititised the populace on the need for an inclusive transportation system that provides for those with disability. To this end, General Manager of Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Dr. Babatunde Awelenge has urged operators of commercial transport system to work in line with the provisions of the Lagos New Chatter Principle Law which is aimed at providing assessable transport system to people living with disabilities in Lagos state. He spoke at a forum organised by LASODA in Lagos recently, to sensitise major stakeholders in transportation in the state on the provision of the new law. Speaking at the event, Awelenge said the focus of the program is to mainstream people living with disability in Lagos state into the society through assessable transportation system. “One of the problems being faced by people living with disabilities irrespective of the cluster group,

living with upper or lower infirmities such as polio victims is about accessible transportation”, Awelenge said. “Lagos New chatter Principle Law provides accessible transportation system in the state. For example, one out of ten seats will be reserved for persons living with disabilities in all the commercial buses, either owned by private or government .The person will still pay the normal fee, but one out of ten seats should be reserved. “In addition to that, if a person with disability enters a bus it is the duty of the able body contact power to relinquish the seat to persons living with disability. Also on queue for buses, persons living with disabilities should be given special consideration.”, he added. Chairman, Nigerian Automobile Technician Association (NATA) Lagos state, Mr. Jacob Omonide, a participant of the forum said the association has a special regard for people living with disability while attending to their vehicles. “My association has been helping disables, we repair vehicles and we give special privilege to disables who

Structure of human eye The human eye contains structures called Rods and cones. Rods register the shapes of images and respond to low levels of light and Cones responds to bright lights and registers the color of images. Dangers of diabetes Diabetes is the number one cause of kidney failure in the world. Besides this every year it is responsible for five per cent or five million blindness in adults and one million limb amputations. According to World Health Organisation (WHO) there are about 246 million people in the world living with diabetes. This is almost six per cent of the world’s adult population. Hormones of human body The human body contains 30 amazing hormones, which regulates activities like sleep, body temperature, hunger, and managing stress in times of crisis and so on. Mystery of human body Every atom in your body is billions of years old. Hydrogen, the most common element in the universe and a major feature of your body, was produced in the big bang 13.7bn years ago.

Awelenge

bring their vehicles for repair. Some disable can attest to this”, he said. According to Ihuoma Susan, a polio survivor, the success of the initiative people with disability on compliance on the part of commercial bus operators and she regretted the way people living with disability were treated. “In every society around the world we have people with disability, the attitude you give to them is what makes the difference. This is a realisable project. What we are doing today is a form of advocacy by creating awareness and telling people how we feel about the way we are treated.We want them to change their attitude towards us through transportation accessibility”, she said.

Kidney filters blood in human body In each kidney, there are one million filters that clean around 1.3 liters of blood every minute and push out close to 1.5 liters of urine every day. Protection of baby in the womb In the womb, the baby’s body is covered by a thin layer of hair but as soon as the baby is born it disappears. Production of growth hormone On an average, the human growth hormone, which is responsible for a person growth is produced at the rate of 500 microgram per day at the age of twenty, 200 microgram per day at the age of forty and 25 microgram per day at the age of eighty.

THURSday, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Health\INTERVIEW

‘Contaminated blood products may trigger diseases’ Dr. Kehinde Okunade is a consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecologist and a lecturer in the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH)/College of Medicine University of Lagos (CMUL). In this interview with APPOLONIA ADEYEMI, he discusses dangers inherent in the activities of private laboratories sourcing blood through illegal means The standard practice in most private hospitals is to ask pregnant patients that need blood transfusion to pay for blood and some hospitals charge as much as N17,000 per pint of blood. What could be the fate of women whose family cannot afford to pay for blood? We have so many private laboratories around where people can get access to blood but most of these facilities use touts. There are some facilities out there that go through the normal process; they go through the state government. There is a Lagos State Blood Transfusion Agency where you can get blood. Of course there are some private laboratoriess that are affiliated to them. The private labs can also go there, do their screening because this blood needs to be screened. Blood is screened for common blood-borne diseases and blood borne infections like HIV, hepatitis, syphilis and so on. So they have to be screened and of course the lab belonging to the Lagos State Government is licensed to do so. All the private labs are affiliated to them. But there are also some other labs that patronise blood touts. Largely there was a time in public hospitals that blood touts come around to donate blood for monetary benefit but but they’ve been completely eliminated now. So when they come, you can imagine when someone comes and donates blood and they are expecting you to pay N5,000 or N10,000. So, the patient that will use the blood but is not ready to donate blood, has to pay because you have to give the money to the person that is donating the blood which is not encouraged because it is not ethical. Ethically, if you are going to voluntarily donate any part of any human cells you are not supposed to charge for it. If I’m giving someone my blood ethically I’m not supposed to charge any money but because of poverty we have so many blood touts around. They go to private laboratories, donate their blood and expect some monetary compensation in return. So when hospitals patronise all these private labs, of course they have to pay for the blood. Some pay up to N15,000 and N20,000 and hospitals too would want to make some profits while attending to patients. So, basically the cycle continues like. Of course, we don’t have any comprehensive health insurance in Nigeria; people pay out-of-pocket. The patient becomes the person to bear the brunt at the end of the day. How do we tackle this problem without people really coming out to donate voluntarily? Most pregnant women who access care in private hospitals are required to pay before blood is transfused on them and

with it. We have the agency that should be in charge of the regulation but are they really doing the work? The agency that should be in charge of that is the Lagos State Blood Transmission Services. Of course they are supposed to be the only licensed body to handle blood and every other facility goes there except in a tertiary hospital where they collect blood from our patients and do the screening. But for private facilities they are supposed to go to Lagos state blood transmission services.

many that cannot pay have lost their lives. What is your take on this? The government has a very big role to play here, especially in the area of blood transmission. What can government do? It is to educate the public. Let everyone know the importance of voluntary blood donation. In fact, people that donate blood live healthier lives. When you donate blood you challenge your bone marrow because your bone marrow rapidly produces another one. You can actually donate blood every six months without any problem. So, the government needs to educate the general public on the importance of blood donation. Let them know there is really no danger in donating blood. There are some cultural beliefs that the government needs to address through some government agencies like the National orientation Agency (NOA).We can have a situation where people can go to the villages and sensitise members of the public on the importance of blood donation and let them know there is really no problem about donating blood. Unless people are ready to donate blood voluntarily there will always be scarcity of blood in the country.

If I am giving someone my blood ethically I’m not supposed to charge any money

Are there people who get blood transfusion and later come down with infections? Of course there are situations when people get transfused and get down with infection. It is well documented even in the hospitals though not common but it happens and it’s a big problem. It is still a problem in Nigeria that government needs to tackle. If it’s not tackled now of course we are going to have a situation where we are going to see outbreak of blood infection because people just throw caution to the wind and start collecting blood from anybody without screening. Is this a common problem? It is not a common problem but it happens. Although, we may say it is not common but it is until it personally or indirectly affects you that you will know this is a big problem. It is still a problem

in Nigeria that government needs to tackle. What are the advices you can give to our pregnant women on how they can help themselves? The moment a woman misses her period and finds out that she is pregnant through a pregnancy test and she is able to confirm that through ultra sound I advise that the woman should register for antenatal clinic early. How early? The recommendation is that once it’s after three months you can register. Three months to us as obstrician is thirteen weeks so by thirteen weeks a women should have registered. We encourage the women to register within thirteen weeks of their pregnancy so that if there is going to be problem, there are some pregnancies that are categorised as high risk, some provisions would have been made by obtrusician or healthcare provider to arrest such condition that may arise, so, encourage the women to register as early as possible, it mustn’t have to be Teaching hospital because Teaching hospitals provide highly specialised form of care we are supposed to manage only high risk pregnancy, they can be referred to other facility through a referral system. We don’t follow an organised structure anymore, anybody can come from anywhere and we take such.

The Lagos State Government sometimes issues a statement warning the public and health facilities to desist from buying blood from unauthorised sources. Are there outlets that procure blood through unethical means? Like I have told you there are some outlets that can do that. Even the so called Lagos State Government logo the Lagos State Blood Transmission logo is being produced. There are fakes all over the place because of corruption in the country. Ideally all labs that are in Lagos State that deal in blood should be affiliated to Lagos State Blood Transfusion Services but some dubiously are not doing that. If there are dubious outlets like that what are the problems that can arise? The problem that can arise is that some people don’t screen the blood very well. Some of the blood from dubious channels are contaminated. They contain HIV and hepatitis and the unsuspecting members of the public who go to these facilities to get blood they unknowingly transfuse with contaminated blood and the person could get infected with various types of diseases. So, that’s the problem. If we don’t put a checks and balances there will be problems. Blood is human tissue there should be strict regulation with how it is handled because it is still mostly applied in Nigeria that is why a lot of people get to live

Okunade

Health\News

THURSday, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Hepatitis A can be deadly Firm renovates Akerele PHC in Lagos H

s part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) to impact positively on the environment where it operates, , Nigerian Breweries has renovated the general outpatient, children welfare and Cold Chain office of the Akerele Primary Health Centre in Surulere in Lagos State. The exercise which was carried out to compliment previous renovation of the Maternity Section of the facility in 2014, after recommendations of its proper maintainance by the hospital authority. In his speech while commissioning the project, Corporate Affairs Adviser, Nigerian Breweries (NB) Plc, Mr. Kufre Ekanem said that their philosophy of winning with Nigeria has influenced the investments in education, job creation, youth and talent development, security as well as the critical area of health in the state. As a company with its birthplace in Lagos, he said the NB has a massive footprint of CSR projects that impact on the wellbeing of the people of Lagos State. Ekanaem said: “The

rational for this project is hinged on the fact that effective primary health care is particularly important for our country Nigeria. “Effective delivery of vaccinations, maternal care and treatment of common diseases such as malaria is essential for the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” He noted that the fullyequipped Accident and Emergency Center at the Ikorodu General Hospital and a pediatric ward at the Agbala Health Centre in Ikorodu was the first health sector projects commissioned by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode upon his assumption of office in 2015. “In June 2016, Nigerian Breweries in partnership with the Heineken Africa Foundation and the Learning Place Center collaborated to upscale the autism project in Nigeria. The project covered the training of medical professionals in the United States (US) on diagnosing autism, renovation and kitting of the classrooms as well as the upgrade of the Occupational Therapy centres in Lekki and Maryland in Lagos State.”

epatitis A is a common viral illness known worldwide and can be transmitted through fecal-oral contamination, if not adequately taken care of it can lead to death. The outbreaks could be through food sources, such as when fecal (stool) components touch food and not washing hands properly. The patients may recover within two months but a significant number has been found to relapse up to six months. Aside being infected through contaminated food one can also be infected from contaminated water, personal contact, and sexual contact especially with men who are involved in homosexual and anal sex. Hepatitis A is a self limiting illness, but can lead to complications in older people and they have more cases of relapse: There is a lot of increased risk of death if not adequately treated. It can develop into fulminant hepatitis which is uncommon but might lead to liver and kidney failure. Pregnant women who

become exposed to hepatitis A have a very high chance of complications like protracted labour and other complications. Patients with Hepatitis A may have nausea/vomiting, weight loss, stomach pain, headache, dark urine, fever, very yellow in color (jaundice) and loose stools. Children who are less than six years old may not show any signs of illness but can be a source of infection to other children around them: The most sign children

Healthy Living

Ihuoma Uko-Ndukwe show is jaundice-skin yellowness. The signs of Hepatitis A often overlap with other viral illness, making it difficult sometimes for early diagnosis. Definite diagnosis is made by testing the serum specific for hepatitis A, Immunoglobulin M (IgM)--anti-HaV. Prevention can be achieved through ac-

Manifestation of Hepatitis A on a patient’s hands photo:youtube

Become what you choose to be

ver the last 20 years, I have been fully involved in treating people with different illnesses. I notice a tendency towards more subtle illnesses. As human beings become more complicated and adopt a so-called modern, sophisticated mode of life, so also do our illnesses become more complicated. I have noticed a tendency towards strange illnesses like: persistent headaches that defy all medication, prolonged arthritis, nervous disorder, character disorder, persistent weakness and tiredness, low sperm count in men and general infertility in men and women. I have been amazed at the huge number of infertile couples in our society today. By my own estimation, two out of every five marriages in Nigeria in the last ten years have problem with conception. Other complaints are: eating in dreams, having sex in dreams, waking up to find bloody marks on the body. Psychologists might dismiss these as mere psychosomatic reactions. But what does psychology really know about the mystery of the human person? Let’s face it, we have a big challenge before us. The easy way out is to dismiss the whole thing as lack of enlightenment or superstition. I challenge African thinkers, sociologists and anthropologists to wake up and reflect on this phe-

Nature Power

Anselm Adodo

naturepower@paxherbals.net twitter: @anselmadodo

nomenon. The most common complaint of modern man and woman is stress. But it is not only human beings that are stressed. The plants are stressed. The animals are stressed. The cosmos itself is stressed. Science has exploited the world’s energy field in such a way that we are being negatively affected. Every day we are bombarded with electromagnetic stresses. Radio-waves, micro-waves, telegraph signals, telephone rays, all expose the organs of the body, brain, eyes, liver and kidney to stress. Telephones radiate very powerful positive but harmful energies, more powerful than X-ray, that they penetrate the brain and the organs and put pressure on them. The result is constant stress, tiredness, head-

aches that defy any medication. Electric shavers, television and computers produce rays that are damaging to the system when exposed to them for a long time. The most dangerous, however, is mobile telephone. Their rays are so powerful that they penetrate into the brain, affect and even change the human cells. These rays create electro-magnetic fields that are positive but very harmful to the cells. The result is that abnormal cells begin to form, leading to cancer, fibroids,

and other strange illnesses. Nowadays we have a lot of forces to contend with. We have the forces of nature, viruses, bacteria and parasites. The air we breathe contains so many unseen viruses, but not enough to overpower the immune system of the body. Our immune system is able to cope with these billions of unseen viruses and bacteria. However, by our own device, we have systematically weakened our immune system, and exposed ourselves to hitherto unknown ailments. The electromagnetic energy spectrum radiates through nature: the seas, mountains, plants, earth and rocks. By living close to the land and nature, we receive this energy into our own energy fields and so are energised. TO BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK

Many brands of lipsticks and deodorants have been implicated in the spread of cancer Stress is a big challenge for modern man

PHOTO: www.standardmedia.co.ke

tive immunisation. It can be lifelong immunity, with onset after one month of getting the immunisation (recommended 2 doses) and with adequate antibody levels it could still be present for 25 years in adults and 14 years in children. There is no supporting evidence regarding revaccination to boost the immune system. Persons with HIV may have lower response rate, just like persons with an already damaged liver. Vaccine should not be given to persons with a history of serious reaction to a previous immunisation to any type of hepatitis A vaccine. There are different types of Hepatitis A vaccine from different manufacturers. Other preventive measures include use of household bleach in cleaning, proper hand washing, avoiding contact with uncooked food, thoroughly cooking foods, and properly washing fruits and vegetables before eating.

Alternative treatments tackle pain safely

opular drug-free methods of managing pain from such common conditions as headaches and arthritis appear to be effective. According to a new review published on September 1, in the journal ‘Mayo Clinic Proceedings’ millions of Americans seek pain relief through such alternatives as acupuncture, tai chi and yoga. But there has been little information to help doctors make recommendations about these approaches. Speaking, the Lead epidemiologist at the U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), Richard Nahin, said: “For many Americans who suffer from chronic pain, medications may not completely relieve pain and can produce unwanted side effects. As a result, many people may turn to nondrug approaches to help manage their pain. “Our goal for this study was to provide relevant, high-quality information for primary care providers and for patients who suffer from chronic pain,” added Nahin who is study lead author of the review.

THURSday, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

MOM’S ALERT

Mom&Parenting

Pre-school children during international summit in South Africa

How do you describe what you do as stay-at-home-mom?

Parenting The doctrine of silent treatment: A crime against the child’s humanity

photo: www.achievement.org

How pre-schools harm your kids

arents have the best of intentions when they send their kids off to preschool. For the most part, they also have certain expectations that their kids will learn the “important” skills necessary to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. And that’s why so many preschools today focus

Mom&Parenting

Oluwatosin Omoniyi City Editor

on academically minded activities, like prereading and the practice of sorting, counting, and coloring. And that type of environment is likely to yield students who test above average in writing and math. The only thing is, it’s the wrong approach and it’s setting our children up for failure. Angela Hanscom, a pediatric occupational therapist, believes children, her daughter inclusive are struggling with social and sensory issues at an increasingly young age and sees it as “a growing epidemic” that will only get worse the more we as parents and educators push for academic readiness too early. Some signs of these issues? She interviewed a respected pre-school director who listed them: They are more easily frustrated, often crying at the drop of a hat

Engaging pre-school children in learning process

Pre-school kids on a school stage

photo:www.prevention.org

36 36

They frequently fall out of their seats several times a day They are less attentive They run into each other and even the walls They have difficulty paying attention They can’t control their emotions and use poor problemsolving methods They have a hard time with basic social interactions “It is so strange,” the director noted. “You never saw these issues in the past.” But now they are rampant, and although research points directly at the reason — that “young children learn best through meaningful play experiences” — preschools are still transitioning from play-based learning to becoming more focused on academic achievement. “As parents and teachers strive to provide increasingly organized learning experiences for children, as I had once done, the opportunities for free play — especially outdoors is becoming less of a priority,” Hanscom wrote in the Washington Post. “Ironically, it is through active free play outdoors where children start to build many of the foundational life skills they need in order to be successful for years to come.” And instead of letting these children engage in wholebody sensory experiences on a daily basis, they are seated at rows of desks and tasked with assignments involving pencil and paper. As Hanscom points out, we can teach academics at any time, but once children reach the age of 7, it’s nearly impossible to course-correct sensory, motor, and cognitive development — skills that shouldn’t have to be taught at all. Her recommendation is simple: “Children just need the time, the space, and the permission to be kids. Let the adult-directed learning experiences come later. Preschool children need to play!” Simple, yes, but will parents and preschools come together to do something about it?\ •Kate Schweitz er of POPSUGAR.com of www. circle of moms

36 MOM&PARENTING

THURSday, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

i-Protect

Childhood Protection & preservation culture

with

Taiwo Akinlami principal@taiwoakinlami.com

You catch the fire as you listen and you become a torch, which passes on the beam of hope

The doctrine of silent treatment: A crime against the child’s humanity

elcome to this page today. Last week we began this discussion on crimes against the humanity of the child, identified the ways by which children’s humanity and we discussed one of them. Today, I will like to discuss the second type of labelling. It is called, ‘the Doctrine of Silent Treatment.’ Silence in the face of moral crisis is very powerful. It is only that such power is never on the side of the oppressed but the oppressor. I am therefore here today, in hope against hope to plead a cause, I live to plead, the noble cause of the Nigerian child. I desire that you catch the fire as you listen and you do not only catch the fire, you become a torch, which passes on the beam of hope. Permit me to share the details of ‘the Doctrine of Silent Treatment in a scenario and share stories to back it up. This is where a child is abused and it comes to the knowledge of the caregiver, particularly one of the parents and he/she would not confront the perpetrator of the abuse or even do anything to prevent future occurrence or occurrences. A lady keeps her five year old girl with her neighbour. The girl tells the mother that the ten year old son of the neighbour plays with her private part. The parent is not able to confront her neighbour because she does not want to rock the boat of good neighbourliness and her precious daughter becomes the costly sacrificial lamb of her bizarre commitment. One would have thought that if she is not able to talk about it, she would stop keeping her child with the neighbour. But alas, she throws her hands in the air and says she does not have an alternative place to keep the child. The submission of this mother to the doctrine of silent treatment has great impact on the psyche of the child and her relationship with her mother now and the future. The child will feel neglected in the hands of a predator. She will feel her mother does not care about

her and therefore she might not bring future cases of abuse or displeasure to her mother. In fact, the mother just set in motion an effective process of losing her child. Let me share one or two more true-life example with you on scenario one. A child, registered in a boarding school comes back home and complains to the mother about physical and sexual abuse by the house master. The mother discusses with a friend, who advises her to remove her child from the school. Her response is very passive, ‘I am busy, their father is busy, where is the time to look for another school and if I pull him out and I don’t find another school on time, who will look after him for me?’ She never reports the matter to the school or removes the child from the school. Lastly a ten year old girl is sexually molested by her eighteen year old cousin, who lives with the child’s family. The ugly incident comes to the knowledge of the mother. She speaks to her daughter to keep the matter secret, even from her father. The girl does not get proper medical attention and the matter is never reported to the police. The fear of the mother is that as a full time housewife, her husband will hold her responsible for not watching over their daughter. The predator cousin continues to live with the family and not extra caution is taken as the mother would not like to arouse the curiosity of the father. The mother is teaching the child to tolerate and get used to pain and abused. She is telling the girl that saving her own head is superior to protecting her child from a predator. As the girl later tells her story as an adult, she felt let down by her mother. She nurses great bitterness against her mother and her cousin. She is willing to reopen the issue though, it happened twenty years ago, because she has not found peace, rest and forgiveness within herself. I cannot agree less with her.

Doing Mathematics with them

orldwide, it is a known fact that most children, if not all, do not like the subject MATHEMATICS, as such, they avoid it where possible. But it is compulsory and imperative that they must understand it and its effectiveness in all stages and aspect of their lives. It is in this light therefore that teachers from different secondary schools in Lagos Nigeria advised parents to be part of the practice. They advise parents to participate and practice mathematics with their children so as to awaken the children’s interest in mathematics as it requires an early foundation based on a high-quality, challenging, and accessible mathematics education. At the on-going annual Cowbellpedia Secondary Schools Mathematics TV Quiz Show in Lagos, Kolawole Bello, a Mathematics teacher of The Ambassador College, Ota, Ogun State advised parents on how to stem the continuous poor performance of students in Mathematics. He explained that parents have a role to play in sustaining

the interest of their children in the subject. He added that as much as teachers are trying nowadays to encourage students in Mathematics and in sciences, the support and encouragement from parents will also go a long way to complement the efforts of teachers. Bello informed that his school identifies students with potential and talent in Mathematics and group them together for further coaching and encouragement. “We form what can be likened to a Mathematics Club and encourage the students to show more interest, regardless of what anybody tells them about Mathematics. It is from this group that we normally pick our representatives for any competition, including Cowbellpedia. This has been working for us,” Bello said. Bello however noted that competitions like the on-going Cowbellpedia Television Quiz Show will go a long way to boost the interest of both students and teachers in the subject. In addition to the sponsorship of the annual maths competition, Promasidor Nigeria Lim-

ited through its flagship brand has developed a mathematics mobile app to sustain interest in the subject area of Mathematics. The Cowbellpedia app is a multilevel mobile app that allows students to practice Mathematics questions everywhere with a lot of fun. This can be downloaded from Google Play Store on any android devices. Festus Tettey Head of Marketing, Promasidor Nigeria Limited explained that the move was part of measures to stimulate greater interest by students in Mathematics, which is regarded as the bedrock of science and technology. The Mathematics Association of Nigeria, MAN has also identified Mathematics phobia as a major drawback for the interest of students in the subject. It specifically expressed concern over the continual poor performance of candidates in Mathematics Senior Secondary School Examinations. Professor Che Agwagah, President of the association said that the causes of the poor performance were student-related, teacher-related and government-related.

MOM’S ALERT with

Grace Essen

grace.essen@gmail.com

How do you describe what you do as stay-at-home-mom?

few years ago my sched- who don’t leave home early in ule weekdays required the morning and come back waking up 4.30am and late, moms who are building quickly getting ready their own ‘thing’ from home, for work. Before I left I would moms who are in transition to a take a look at my kids as they new startup or making a career slept peacefully, said goodbye to change that will give them the my husband who also would be flexibility they need to give more getting ready to leave for work. time to their families. UnfortuAs I rush through the door, I nately the society sees women would leave instructions for my like that as ‘not doing anything’. then nanny on what to do, I must Little wonder we need names to not miss the staff bus at 5:15am. help describe us – like working I would get to the office at about moms, work-from-home-moms, 6.45am and call the house to get stay-at-home-moms, momprenuan opportunity to speak with ers, etc, so we can feel a little betmy kids before they go to school ter with ourselves. at 7.30am. The rest of the day You must have come across would be work, work, work un- some write ups on social media til when I find 5 – 10 minutes to most likely from moms who can’t call the house later in the day to hide their frustration at being check on the kids and the home. seen as ‘not doing anything’. At 8pm or thereabout I would Here is one of such as posted on leave the office and stay stuck Facebook: in traffic for another 2 hours or What Do You Do All Day? A more. When I finally get home at very heart touching message by about 10, 10.30 or even 11pm, the a woman. Someone asked her, kids would be fast asleep. I would Are you a working woman or a sit by their bed to look at them housewife? She replied: Yes, I and touch them, just to have a am a full-time working housefeel of what was going on with wife. I work 24 hours a day. I’m a Mum. I’m a Wife. them. And this would continue I’m a Daughter. I’m a Daughter-inthe next day … law. I’m an Alarm Not anymore. clock. I’m a Cook. My schedule But my life is more I’m a Maid. I’m is totally difa Teacher. I’m a ferent today. purposeful and Waiter. I’m a NanI wake up at 5.30am, I workny. I’m a Nurse. I’m fulfilling. This I out for about 30 a Handyman. I’m wouldn’t trade with a Security officer. minutes. I get I’m a Counsellor. my kids ready my former life I’m a Comforter. I and take them to school mydon’t get holidays. I don’t get sick leave. self. When I get back, I face my I don’t get day off. work which is mostly online. In I work through day and night. between, I run errands for the I’m on call all hours and get paid home. The first schedule can with a sentence. It’s okay for women to put up easily describe me as a working mom. And the second schedule? such posts to argue the busyMaybe a stay-at-home mom or ness of a mom. But I think we work-from-home-mom. should focus more on building Recently a former colleague confidence in ourselves and in and friend texted me on What- what we do so when we are asked sapp saying he had a question what we do, we can respond he had been meaning to ask. I like people who actually have waited. It took a while and then something valuable to offer and he asked, “Do you work some- not just argue about how busy where or run your own thing?” we are all day. I did get back to I replied, “No I don’t work any- my friend, and by the time we where else, on my own”. Then were done talking about what I he asked, “So what do you do???” do, he said, “Grace, you need a Exactly that way, with three team!” Does that mean he was question marks! My phone had convinced I have something gowarned earlier that my battery ing on, more than I can actually was about to die and so I couldn’t handle? You bet! respond immediately. I had to If I still had my former schedturn off data to conserve power ule of 4.30am-to-10pm busyness, to enable me at least take few my friend’s question wouldn’t have arisen in the first place. calls. First, I was a little surprised Even if it did, I wouldn’t have at the question because I had blinked before responding. But sought the advice of the same then, I would never know what a person on a few projects I had woman like me has to go through recently, and he still asked what to answer such a simple quesI do? Wow! How much thought tion. Ironically my schedule toI gave to this very simple ques- day is lighter, but my life is more tion showed just how tough it purposeful and fulfilling. This I is for moms like me who don’t wouldn’t trade with my former work in some big organizations, life. Never.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

COUNSEL Naira struggles on parallel market

BUSINESS | MONEY LINE

Analysts urge patience on liberalised forex market rather than the principal supplier. We urge patience.” Citing data from the CBN, which shows that gross official external reserves declined by $790million in August on a 30-day moving average basis to $25.4billion, the analysts pointed out that the monthly average movement in the reserves has been an outflow of $460million over the past 12 months. According to the analysts: “The moving average basis dilutes the immediate impact of the sale of $1.22billionn by the CBN under a two-month forward contract opened on 20 June. It also entered into a three-month contract for $1.57billion on the same day (the launch of the new exchange-rate regime).” They further noted that the widely reported sale by Citibank of $270million on 29 August for the purchase of longer tenor NTBs by its offshore clients has not triggered the re-entry of offshore investors in large numbers. They also stated that although a Europe-based international bank has been buying FGN long bonds steadily over the past two weeks: “Market talk suggests that it may have bought the bonds with the proceeds of FGN

Tony Chukwunyem

ollowing growing concerns about continuing liquidity issues in the interbank forex market, financial analysts are urging patience, as doubts increase over the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) capacity to sustain the new forex trading system. In a note obtained by New Telegraph, analysts at FBN Quest, noted that foreign investors were yet to bring in significant inflows since the take off of the liberalised forex market in June, stressing that this was critical to the success of the new policy. The experts said: “The success of the new regime hinges upon sizeable autonomous inflows to supplement the CBN’s. The Financial Markets Dealers Quotation (FMDQ) website shows open futures contracts of $2.9billion through to August 2017. The portfolio community has shown its hand although Nigerian corporates have probably been the larger players. “There is no reason why the new system cannot be successful, with the CBN one of many players

debt maturities.” The lack of liquidity in the market has led to the naira falling steeply against the dollar on the parallel market. The local currency traded at N314.35 against the dollar on the FMDQ platform yesterday, while on the parallel market it exchanged at N422 to the greenback. Financial analysts attribute the reluctance of foreign investors to reenter the Nigerian market in large numbers to concerns over the country’s economy. Figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) last week showed that the economy contracted 2.1 per cent in the three months to the end of June, worse than analysts expected, while inflation hit an 11-year high of 17.1 per cent, un-

derlining the depth of the country’s crisis. “What strikes me is the breadth of sectors where things have gone terribly wrong,” the Financial Times quoted Africa Economist at Capital Economics, John Ashbourne, as saying. Citing contractions in construction, manufacturing and trade, he said: “Across the board, it is popping up red. This is a wake-up sign that a lot of the non-oil sector policies, like foreign exchange controls, have not worked.” Nigeria, which depends on petrodollars for 70 per cent of state revenues and 90 per cent of export earnings, has been battered by the slump in oil prices. The economy shrank 0.4 per cent in the first three months of the year and the International

CBN to raise N952bn in treasury bills by December

he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced it will raise about N952.04 billion with new issues of Treasury bills from September 15 to December 1, according its latest issuance calendar. The apex bank said it would sell N264.47 billion

worth of three-month bills, N204.88 billion of sixmonth bills and N482.69 billion of one-year bills. Nigeria is expected to borrow around N900 billion from the local market to bridge its budget deficit, which is estimated at N2.2 trillion in this year’s budget.

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

N19,142,526.05m N18,579,219.49m 17.13 14 10.77 US$47.36 US$25,280,555,658

Mar, 2015 Mar, 2015 July, 2016 07/07/2016 Mar 2015 7/9/2016 5/9/2016

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 104.65 114.59 111.96 120.58 109.60 100.54 83.82 97.56

1.07 3.24 3.87 5.82 7.95 9.81 14.31 18.29

NIBOR

Rate (%) 4.4583 9.1071 11.0102 12.3790

Bid Yield 10.38 10.55 11.60 11.44 12.27 12.40 12.44 12.49

Change (%) -2.50 ▼ -0.74 ▼ -0.65 ▼ -0.68 ▼

Change (%) -0.02 ▼ -0.01 ▼ 0.00 ↔ 0.00 ↔ -0.07 ▼ -0.08 ▼ -0.03 ▼ 0.02 ▲

Price 104.80 114.89 112.26 120.88 109.90 100.84 84.12 97.86

Tenor (Months)

Change (%) -0.02 ▼ -0.01 ▼ 0.00 ↔ 0.00 ↔ -0.07 ▼ -0.08 ▼ -0.03 ▼ 0.02 ▲

NITTY

Rate (%) 6.9949 7.2368 8.0819 9.2061 9.5872 10.5042

1 2 3 6 9 12

Treasury Bills

Offer Yield 10.24 10.45 11.51 11.38 12.22 12.34 12.39 12.44

Change (%) 1.12 ▲ -0.27 ▼ -0.17 ▼ -0.11 ▼ 0.03 ▲ 0.42 ▲

Money Market

Maturity Date Discount Bid Yield Change (%) Discount Offer Yield Change (%) Rate (%) 30-Jun-16 7.92 7.67 7.82 -0.51 ▼ Open-Buy-Back (OBB) 3.83 8.08 -0.51 ▼ 6-Oct-16 8.59 8.34 8.71 -0.31 ▼ Overnight (O/N) 4.33 8.99 -0.31 ▼ 16-Mar-17 9.36 10.28 -0.07 ▼ 9.11 9.98 -0.07 ▼

Spot($/N)

Bid 199.14

Offer 199.24

Change (%) 0.57 ▲

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 (%) -1.75 ▼ -2.08 ▼

Change (%) 0.00 ↔

Monetary Fund (IMF) is forecasting that growth in 2016 will contract 1.8 per cent. Also in a note made available to New Telegraph, the Principal Consultant, Henates and Associates, Mr. Henry Atenaga, predicted that Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures for the third quarter would be worse than those of the second quarter. He said: “Those screaming now after the release of Nigeria’s gross domestic product for second quarter and inflation

rate for July had better get prepared for gloomier statistics by the third quarter. This is because the monthly purchasing managers survey report by the Central Bank of Nigeria for August hints at mass decline in manufacturing and non manufacturing indices. “According to the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) issued August 31, composite index covering manufacturing and non manufacturing hit second lowest levels since July 2014 in August.”

S&P: African Sukuk market has growth potential

tandard and Poor’s (S&P) Global Ratings has said that that Africa’s extensive infrastructure development needs create a fertile environment for the growth of Sukuk issuance over the next decade. “We believe African Sukuk can provide diversification benefits for Islamic investors as well as additional financing opportunities,” said S&P Global Ratings credit analyst Samira Mensah. “Moreover, we think sovereign Sukuk issuance could, in the long term, facilitate the development of Shari’ah-compliant private-sector Sukuk on the continent. Given Africa’s significant funding and infrastructure needs, sovereigns there could benefit from an active Sukuk market.” Yet so far the market comprises only $2 billion of Sukuk from a handful of issuers. By contrast, 17 sub-Saharan African (SSA) governments we rate issued $46 billion of conventional debt in 2015 alone. “Despite Sukuk’s widespread appeal to investors, we expect that only a few African countries will tap the Sukuk market

over the next 12 months, for several reasons. First, we see a general lack of clear legal and tax regimes to support a thriving Sukuk market, and in many cases, the complexity of structuring Sukuk could deter issuance. However, multilateral institutions could become increasingly important in enabling countries to enter the Sukuk market. This was illustrated by Senegal’s issuance of Sukuk in 2014 and 2016, aided by technical support from the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector. We see South Africa and Côte d’Ivoire as serious contenders to attract foreign investors because of their large infrastructure projects, which need institutional funding. In addition, these two countries benefit from a well-developed financial infrastructure that could help them become financial hubs for such transactions. “In our view, the increasing involvement of multilateral institutions is one of the keys to unlock the full potential of the continent’s fledgling Sukuk market,” Ms. Mensah added.

CBN hosts FICAN bi-monthly forum on e-payment

he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will be hosting the September Edition of the Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN) Bi-Monthly Forum in Lagos. The event, christened: “Development in the Electronic Payment Industry in 2016” will hold on Saturday, September 10 at the FICAN Centre, Onipanu Lagos. The Guest Speaker, CBN Director, Banking & Payment System Department, ‘Dipo Fatokun, according to a statement,

will x-ray the key issues that have defined the electronic payment industry within this year. Fatokun will be speaking on the implementation of the cash-less banking policy, its impact on the payment system, Bank Verification Number (BVN), mobile banking, Internet banking and banking security. The CBN director will also address issues around electronic payment frauds, and the need for bank customers to protect their account details.

BUSINESS |FINANCIAL MARKET NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

7-Sep-16

Bonds

FGN Bonds Issuer

Rating/Agency

Description 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 14.50 15-JUL-2021 ^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

Price

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

27-Apr-12 27-Jul-07 31-Aug-07 30-May-08 29-Jun-12 23-Oct-09 13-Feb-15 13-Jul-16 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

15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 15.54 14.50 16.39 14.20 12.50 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.15 12.4000

480.13 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 606.43 179.59 605.31 719.99 391.02 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 1075.92 250.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

6,330.16

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

5,697.23

Rating/Agency

Agency Bonds Nil

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Description

Issuer

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

FMBN

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs)

27-Apr-17 27-Jul-17 31-Aug-17 30-May-18 29-Jun-19 23-Oct-19 13-Feb-20 15-Jul-21 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

0.64 0.88 0.98 1.72 2.81 3.12 3.43 4.85 5.39 7.51 9.37 12.22 12.70 13.20 13.87 17.86 19.52

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

Bid Price

Offer Price

20.07 21.15 21.56 18.87 14.81 14.92 15.04 14.93 14.89 15.04 15.36 15.24 15.22 15.20 15.17 15.01 15.26

19.80 20.94 21.36 18.76 14.74 14.78 14.93 14.84 14.81 14.97 15.29 15.19 15.16 15.13 15.11 14.96 15.20

97.09 91.24 89.69 88.35 102.59 80.75 101.27 98.50 105.38 96.29 86.00 98.61 84.78 62.25 70.35 82.32 82.32

97.24 91.39 89.84 88.50 102.74 81.05 101.57 98.80 105.68 96.59 86.30 98.91 85.08 62.55 70.65 82.62 82.62

6285.155565

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

03-Apr-12

17.25

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Modelled Price

0.90

03-Apr-17

0.27

2.94

18.84

99.56

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

0.61 0.57 1.31 1.13 1.14 1.32 1.33 1.51 1.72 3.21 1.79 4.22 4.31 2.54 2.57 3.12 3.33 3.36 3.30 6.46 3.45

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

20.97 25.48 22.82 22.14 22.10 24.23 23.94 23.53 20.94 16.96 19.67 16.28 18.73 18.40 16.82 16.44 18.99 15.99 17.49 16.69 18.06

93.92 94.09 90.36 92.52 92.48 89.80 89.51 90.53 92.80 94.04 93.08 91.68 89.20 92.63 96.42 97.81 94.30 101.21 99.97 101.05 97.42

0.90

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

0.90

Sub-National Bonds 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

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

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

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

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

57.00 11.33 25.00 23.44 4.22 9.45 7.01 18.70 12.55 80.00 20.55 87.50 5.00 3.74 3.76 14.37 4.17 4.30 27.10 3.00 7.34

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

429.51 401.44

Corporate Bonds

13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016

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

NAHCO

BBB-/GCR

*C & I LEASING *DANA#{r}

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

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

FSDH ***LCRM UBA

*TOWER# *TOWER#

14.00 UBA II 30-SEP-2018 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018

UBA *LA CASERA

*CHELLARAMS *DANA#{r} *FCMB NAHCO

A/GCR AAA/GCR

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

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

*TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC UBA

A/GCR

MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

*FCMB

Bbb/Agusto; A-/GCR

18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017

FIDELITY *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC STANBIC IBTC STANBIC IBTC *NMRC

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

13.00 14.25 0.00/16.00 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50 13.00

15.00 5.53 112.22 116.70 66.49 20.00

29-Sep-16 25-Oct-16 08-Dec-16 19-Apr-17 06-Jul-17 30-Sep-17

0.06 0.13 0.25 0.61 0.83 1.06

1.00 1.34 1.00 3.55 5.25 1.88

18.00 17.79 16.60 23.52 26.15 23.27

99.64 99.43 99.69 96.11 93.09 90.76

30-Nov-12

18.00

0.36

30-Nov-17

0.74

1.88

22.39

97.87

09-Apr-11 09-Sep-11

16.00 18.00

3.60 1.82

09-Apr-18 09-Sep-18

0.84 1.01

3.15 6.35

24.08 27.96

94.33 92.19

09-Sep-11 30-Sep-11

16.00 14.00

0.50 35.00

09-Sep-18 30-Sep-18

1.01 2.06

1.00 1.17

22.61 18.78

94.58 92.09

18-Oct-13

15.75

1.50

18-Oct-18

1.11

4.42

25.62

91.26

17-Feb-12

18.00

0.23

17-Feb-19

1.45

6.11

26.05

91.02

01-Apr-14 06-Nov-15

16.00 15.00

4.50 20.87

01-Apr-19 06-Nov-20

1.32 2.16

3.28 4.47

23.72 21.70

92.08 89.50

14-Nov-13

15.25

2.05

14-Nov-20

4.18

1.00

15.98

97.76

04-Dec-15

15.50

9.76

04-Dec-20

2.69

3.55

19.11

92.84

20-Nov-14 30-Dec-14 13-May-15

14.25 16.45 16.48

26.00 30.50 30.00

20-Nov-21 30-Dec-21 13-May-22

5.20 5.31 5.68

2.51 1.00 1.00

17.42 15.90 15.91

89.36 101.83 102.01

26-Oct-15

16.00

10.00

26-Oct-22

3.85

2.77

17.78

95.35

30-Sep-14

16.29

0.10

30-Sep-24

8.06

1.00

16.13

100.66

30-Sep-14 29-Jul-15

13.25 14.90

15.44 7.86

30-Sep-24 29-Jul-30

8.06 9.24

1.00 1.00

16.13 16.32

87.22 93.70

10-Oct-20

2.31

3.37

20.07

90.84

536.02

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

513.48

Sukuk *OSUN

14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020

10-Oct-13

AAA/S&P

IFC

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

11-Feb-18

1.43

1.00

18.20

90.30

Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P

*AfDB

11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021

10-Jul-14

11.25

12.95

01-Feb-21

2.65

1.00

14.17

93.84

Bid Price

Offer Price

BBB-/Agusto

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

14.75

9.02

9.02 8.20

Supranational Bond

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

24.95 22.99 Issuer

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

6.17

5.94

102.20

103.09

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

12-Jul-13

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

4.46

4.01

101.15

101.96

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

12-Jul-13

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

6.36

6.21

100.10

100.88

100.60

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

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

FGN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,517.26

Corporate Eurobonds B+/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

6.52

100.60

B/Fitch; B/S&P

FIDELITY BANK PLC

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

22.37

18.22

79.42

84.33

GTBANK PLC

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

6.00

100.00

B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P

ZENITH BANK PLC

6.25 APR 22, 2019

22-Apr-14

6.25

500.00

22-Apr-19

7.75

96.50

B/Fitch; B/S&P

DIAMOND BANK PLC

8.75 May 21, 2019

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

22.61

73.03

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

14.03 14.23 15.82

13.27 13.74 15.82

82.50 82.56 73.50

84.50 84.06 73.50

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 (%)

16.80

18-Oct-16

2.03

18.63

18.25

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

3,150.00 2,739.63 Description

Issuer

Issue Date

Yield @ Issue (%)

18-Apr-16

11.00

Commercial Papers A-/Agusto

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT COMPANY PLC

UPDC CP 18-OCT-16

16.80

**TREASURY BILLS^ DTM 15 29 36 43 50 57 71 85

FIXINGS Maturity 22-Sep-16 6-Oct-16 13-Oct-16 20-Oct-16 27-Oct-16 3-Nov-16 17-Nov-16 1-Dec-16

Bid Discount (%) 15.93 16.08 15.60 15.20 14.54 14.93 14.43 15.15

Offer Discount (%) 15.68 15.83 15.35 14.95 14.29 14.68 14.18 14.90

Bid Yield (%) 16.03 16.29 15.84 15.47 14.83 15.28 14.84 15.71

Money Market

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 31.7917 19.8131 20.1519 22.8723

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards)

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

33.17

Tenor

Closing Rate ($/N)

O/N

35.50

Spot 7D 14D 1M 2M 3M

314.35 315.28 317.15 319.08 323.25 326.18

Tenor Call 1M

REPO

Rate (%) 33.50 26.00

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

7-Sep-16

Bonds

FGN Bonds Issuer

Rating/Agency

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

UPBEAT Equities market returned to positive trajectory with N7billion gainVALUE TOTAL OUTSTANDING TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

Issuer

Agency Bonds Nil

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

FMBN

Stories: Chris Ugwu TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

Sub-National Bonds

fter three LAGOS days de*BAYELSA cline, investors yesEDO *DELTA terday got respite, as *NIGER the overall*EKITI market *NIGER *ONDO performance indices firmed *GOMBE up marginally with LAGOS a gain of *OSUN LAGOS 0.07 per cent. KOGI The NSE Banking*EKITI and NSE *NASARAWA Industrial Index rose*BAUCHI by 24 bps 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

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

27-Apr-12 27-Jul-07 31-Aug-07 30-May-08 29-Jun-12 23-Oct-09 13-Feb-15 13-Jul-16 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

15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 15.54 14.50 16.39 14.20 12.50 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.15 12.4000

and 120 bps respectively. Transactions on the stock Description market had the previous three days returned to the red terriII 03-APR-2017 tory,17.25 asFMB the market slumped from a day of gaining streaks following market apathy exhib10.00 investors. LAGOS 19-APR-2017 ited by 13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017 Consequently, the All14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017 14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018 Share Index dipped 18.81 basis 14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018 14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018 points or 0.07 per cent to close 14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019 at 27,522.62 index points as 15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 against 27.503.81 recorded the 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 13.50 LAGOS 27-NOV-2020 previous day , while the market 15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020 capitalisation of equities ap14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021 preciated by9-DEC-2021 N7 billion or 0.07 15.50 BAUCHI

*OYO *BENUE *PLATEAU KOGI *CROSS RIVER

Corporate Bonds

16.50 16.50 17.50 17.00 17.00

17-Feb-15 27-Feb-15 30-Mar-15 01-Apr-15 27-May-15

OYO 16-FEB-2022 BENUE 27-FEB-2022 PLATEAU 30-MAR-2022 KOGI II 31-MAR-2022 CROSS RIVER 27-MAY-2022

Offer Yield (%)

Offer Price

Bid Price

27-Apr-17 27-Jul-17 31-Aug-17 30-May-18 29-Jun-19 23-Oct-19 13-Feb-20 15-Jul-21 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

0.64 0.88 0.98 1.72 2.81 3.12 3.43 4.85 5.39 7.51 9.37 12.22 12.70 13.20 13.87 17.86 19.52

20.07 21.15 21.56 18.87 14.81 14.92 15.04 14.93 14.89 15.04 15.36 15.24 15.22 15.20 15.17 15.01 15.26

19.80 20.94 21.36 18.76 14.74 14.78 14.93 14.84 14.81 14.97 15.29 15.19 15.16 15.13 15.11 14.96 15.20

97.09 91.24 89.69 88.35 102.59 80.75 101.27 98.50 105.38 96.29 86.00 98.61 84.78 62.25 70.35 82.32 82.32

97.24 91.39 89.84 88.50 102.74 81.05 101.57 98.80 105.68 96.59 86.30 98.91 85.08 62.55 70.65 82.62 82.62

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

FSDH

***LCRM

#{r}

# #

DEVELOPMENT COMPANY PLC

ling Bank, Access Bank Plc and GTB Plc. Outstanding Avg. Life/TTM Premium Maturity subsector, boosted Date (Yrs) Value (₦’bn) by the activities in the shares 0.90 03-Apr-17 0.27 of Zenith Bank Plc and FBNH 0.90 Plc 0.90 followed with a turnover of 34.2 million shares in 492 deals. 57.00 number 19-Apr-17 0.61 at The of gainers 11.33 30-Jun-17 0.57 1.31 the25.00 close of 31-Dec-17 trading session 23.44 30-Sep-18 1.13 was4.22 17, while 04-Oct-18 decliners closed 1.14 9.45 09-Dec-18 1.32 at 18. 7.01 12-Dec-18 1.33 18.70 14-Feb-19 1.51 Further analysis of the 12.55 02-Oct-19 1.72 80.00 22-Nov-19 3.21 day’s trading showed that Skye 20.55 12-Dec-19 1.79 87.50Plc, topped 27-Nov-20 4.22 Bank the gainers’ 5.00 31-Dec-20 4.31 3.74 2.54 table with 4.6231-Dec-20 per cent to close 3.76 06-Jan-21 2.57 09-Dec-21 while 3.12 at 6814.37 kobo per share, May

16.50 16.50 17.50 17.00 17.00

4.17 4.30 27.10 3.00 7.34

16-Feb-22 27-Feb-22 30-Mar-22 31-Mar-22 27-May-22

3.33 3.36 3.30 6.46 3.45

& Baker Plc followed with 4.60 per cent to close at 91 kobo Risk Valuation per share. Diamond Bank Plc Modelled Price Premium Yield (%) (%) firmed up by 4.35 per cent to 2.94 18.84 99.56 close at N1.20 per share. On the flip side, Seven Up Plc and Vitafoam Plc led the 1.00 20.97 losers’ chart with a 93.92 drop of 5.71 25.48 94.09 2.39 per cent 22.82 each to 90.36 five close at 1.00 22.14 92.52 N137.66 and N2.85 per share re1.00 22.10 92.48 3.82 89.80 spectively .24.23 Nacho Plc followed 3.56 23.94 89.51 3.82 with a loss23.53 of 4.86 per90.53 cent to 2.02 20.94 92.80 2.01 16.96 94.04 close at N3.33 per share, while 1.00 19.67 93.08 1.30 16.28 91.68 African Prudential Registrars 3.76 18.73 89.20 2.53 dropped 18.40by 4.64 per 92.63 Plc cent to 1.00 16.82 96.42 1.52 16.44 per share. 97.81 close at N2.26 6285.155565

4.01 1.00 2.52 1.79 3.04

18.99 15.99 17.49 16.69 18.06

94.30 101.21 99.97 101.05 97.42

429.51 401.44

13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016

NAHCO

#{r}

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Bid Yield (%)

Fitch downgrades Nigeria’s Seven Energy to ‘CC’

he World Federation of nancial system, as ESMA and UBA *C & I LEASING Exchanges (WFE), which other market authorities are MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 Nil *DANA MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 A-/DataPro†; CCC/GCR represents more*TOWER than 200 proactively doing. This will be MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 AAA/DataPro†; B/GCR 14.00 UBA IIand 30-SEP-2018 market infrastructure*TOWER providers important helpful in ensurA+/Agusto; A/GCR UBA 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 Bbb+/Agusto†; BBB+/GCR† *LA CASERA including exchanges and CCPs, ing the market moves together, MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 BBB-/DataPro†; BB/GCR *CHELLARAMS 16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019 Nil *DANA to the has published its response and that investor protection is 15.00 FCMB 6-NOV-2020 A-/GCR *FCMB 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 A+/Agusto; A-/GCRSecurities NAHCO European and Marin focus from the outset. 15.50 TRANSCORP 4-DEC-2020 Bbb/Agusto; A-/GCR *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC 14.25WFE FCMB I 20-NOV-2021 BBB/GCR kets Authority’s (ESMA) DisThe encourages regula*FCMB 16.45 UBA I 30-DEC-2021 A/GCR UBA cussion Paper on Distributed tors 16.48 to continue to collaborate FIDELITY 13-MAY-2022 BBB/GCR FIDELITY 16.00 TRANSCORP 26-OCT-2022 Bbb/Agusto; A-/GCR *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC Ledger Technology (DLT). with all parts of the to 182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IAindustry 30-SEP-2024 A/GCR STANBIC IBTC 13.25 STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024 A/GCR STANBIC IBTC According to a statement ob- better understand the develop14.90 NMRC 29-JUL-2030 AAA/GCR *NMRC tained by New Telegraph, the ment of DLT, and to minimise TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION WFE supports the objective of a unintended consequences from coordinated European approach any subsequent policy formaSukuk BBB-/Agusto *OSUN to DLT. Still, due to the global, tion.14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE borderless nature of DLT, WFE “This will allow regulators to TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION also emphasises the need for understand the technology, what Supranational Bond global consistency based on the potential future industry 10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018 AAA/S&P IFC 11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021 Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P *AfDB international guidelines and models are and its subsequent TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE principles. impact on financial markets as TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION WFE encourages ESMA to well as how it can most effectiveDescription Rating/Agency Issuer work alongside international ly perform its regulatory funcFGN Eurobonds regulatory organisations and tion. Regulatory sandboxes have 6.75 JAN 28, 2021 BB-/Fitch; B+/S&P groupings, such as IOSCO and been a useful tool for the wider BB-/Fitch; FGN 5.13 JUL 12, 2018 BB-/S&P the G-20, to firstly develop a com- FinTech industry in various BB-/Fitch; 6.38 JUL 12, 2023 BB-/S&P mon approach to ensure a level jurisdictions, so the WFE sugTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE playing field amongst current gests these should be extended TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION and potential DLT providers to DLT to ensure that appropriCorporate Eurobonds 7.25 JUL 25, 2017 B+/S&Pparticipants; andACCESS BANK PLC and secondly , ate collaboration and exchange 6.88 MAY 09, 2018 B/Fitch; B/S&P FIDELITY BANK PLC to ensure any policy-formation of information occurs between 6.00 NOV 08, 2018 B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC 6.25 APR 22, 2019 B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P ZENITH BANK PLC in this area is complementary industry and regulators. 8.75 May 21, 2019 B/Fitch; B/S&P DIAMOND BANK PLC 8.25 AUG 07, 2020 and does The Exchange noted: “HowB-/Fitch; B/S&P not encourage FIRSTregulaBANK PLC 9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021 B-/Fitch; B/S&P ACCESS BANK PLC II tory arbitrage. ever, we also8.00/2Y advocate thatJULinUSD SWAP+6.488 23 2021 B-/Fitch; B/S&P FIRST BANK LTD 8.75 AUG 14, 2021 B-/S&P ECOBANK NIG. LTD Given the evolving nature novation in FinTech generally, TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET of DLT, it CAPITALISATION is important that and DLT specifically, should be regulators follow industry de- primarily industry driven, and Description Rating/Agency Issuer velopments in the design and not be unnecessarily impeded Commercial Papers application of DLT UACN to the fiby regulatory intervention. PROPERTY A-/Agusto

TTM (Yrs)

BUSINESS |FINANCIAL MARKET NEWS 480.13 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 606.43 179.59 605.31 719.99 391.02 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 1075.92 250.00

6,330.16 per cent from N9.447 trillion 5,697.23 the previous day to N9.454 trillion. Issue Date Coupon (%) Meanwhile, a turnover of 17.25 295.7 million03-Apr-12 shares exchanged in 3,709 deals was recorded in the day’s trading. 19-Apr-10sub-sector 10.00 of The banking 30-Jun-10 13.75 31-Dec-10 14.00 the financial services sector 30-Sep-11 14.00 was the most04-Oct-11 active (measured 14.00 09-Dec-11 by turnover 12-Dec-13 volume) with14.50 190.7 14.00 14-Feb-12 15.50 million shares exchanged by 02-Oct-12 15.50 14.50 investors in22-Nov-12 1,690 deals. 12-Dec-12 14.75 27-Nov-13 13.50 Volume in the sub-sector 31-Dec-13 15.00 14.50acwas largely31-Dec-13 driven by the 06-Jan-14 15.00 09-Dec-14 tivities in the shares of 15.50 Ster-

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

A-/Agusto; A-/GCR Nil Nil Nil A/GCR BBB-/GCR

Maturity Date

Stock market records marginal gain

WFE publishes replies to European securities paper A+/Agusto; A-/GCR

Price Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

13.00 15.00 29-Sep-16 0.06 1.00 itch29-Sep-11 Ratings has down- ing since February ergy may18.00 run out of 99.64 cash by 25-Oct-13 14.25 5.53 its closure 25-Oct-16 0.13 1.34 17.79 99.43 09-Dec-11 0.00/16.00 112.22 08-Dec-16 1.00 16.60 99.69 graded Nigeria-based 2016; and a reduction of 0.25 the oil end-2016. 20-Apr-12 0.00/16.50 116.70 19-Apr-17 0.61 3.55 23.52 96.11 06-Jul-12 66.49 06-Jul-17 0.83 26.15 Seven Energy0.00/16.50 Internaunder-lift position under the 5.25 According to Fitch,93.09 deterio30-Sep-10 13.00 20.00 30-Sep-17 1.06 1.88 23.27 90.76 30-Nov-12 18.00 0.36 30-Nov-17 0.74 1.88 22.39 97.87 tional Limited’s (Seven Energy) Strategic Alliance Agreement rating liquidity led to down09-Apr-11 16.00 3.60 09-Apr-18 0.84 3.15 24.08 94.33 09-Sep-11 Rating 18.00 1.82 6.35 27.96 Energy’s92.19 Issuer Default (IDR) to (SAA) with09-Sep-18 Nigerian 1.01 Petro- grade Seven cash on 09-Sep-11 16.00 0.50 09-Sep-18 1.01 1.00 22.61 94.58 ‘CC’ from ‘B-’. leum Development Company hand at 30 which 30-Sep-11 14.00 35.00 30-Sep-18 2.06 1.17 18.78June 2016, 92.09 18-Oct-13 15.75 1.50 18-Oct-18 1.11 4.42 25.62 91.26 Simultaneously , Fitch has (NPDC) that reached USD312m was USD33million, well 17-Feb-12 18.00 0.23 17-Feb-19 1.45 6.11 26.05 91.02below 01-Apr-14 16.00 4.50 01-Apr-19 1.32 3.28 23.72 92.08 downgraded the senior seas at 30 June 2016. If any of the company’s short-term debt 06-Nov-15 15.00 20.87 06-Nov-20 2.16 4.47 21.70 89.50 14-Nov-13of wholly-owned 15.25 2.05 14-Nov-20 4.18 1.00 USD97million. 15.98 97.76 cured rating these developments fail to maof 04-Dec-15 15.50 9.76 04-Dec-20 2.69 3.55 19.11 92.84 20-Nov-14 14.25 26.00 5.20 be2.51In addition, 17.42 89.36 subsidiary Seven Energy Fi- terialise by20-Nov-21 end-2016, we the company 30-Dec-14 16.45 30.50 30-Dec-21 5.31 1.00 15.90 101.83 nance Limited’s 10.25 per cent lieve that Seven Energy may be reclassified USD303million of 13-May-15 16.48 30.00 13-May-22 5.68 1.00 15.91 102.01 26-Oct-15 16.00 10.00 26-Oct-22 3.85 2.77 17.78 95.35 USD300million secured notes forced to start re-negotiations long-term debt as short-term 30-Sep-14 16.29 0.10 30-Sep-24 8.06 1.00 16.13 100.66 13.25 15.44 all its creditors, 30-Sep-24 8.06 1.00end-June 16.132016 after87.22 due 202130-Sep-14 to ‘C’ from ‘CCC’. The with including at it failed 29-Jul-15 14.90 7.86 29-Jul-30 9.24 1.00 16.32 93.70 Recovery Rating on the notes the bondholders”. to comply with financial cov536.02 513.48 remains at ‘RR6’. Nigeria’s onshore-based enants. According to the rating Seven Energy is a small oil and “The company is actively 10-Oct-13 IDR downgrade 14.75 9.02 production 10-Oct-20and gas 2.31pro3.37 20.07 90.84 agency, “the gas working to improve its liquid9.02 reflects our re-assessment cessing, distribution and marity , e.g., to extend the Accugas 8.20 of the significant ongoing keting company with a com- IV maturity profile and to liquidity11-Feb-13 , security and execu- plex The company’s replace a18.20 portion of 90.30 the Ac10.20 12.00 structure. 11-Feb-18 1.43 1.00 10-Jul-14 12.95 2.65 1.00 tion risks that Seven11.25 Energy oil business01-Feb-21 in the Nigeria’s cugas IV 14.17 facility with93.84 longer 24.95 continues to face. While the North West has been hampered tenor debt following ongoing 22.99 company is making progressOutstanding by NPDC’s weak financial posi- discussions with various deValue Issue Date Coupon (%) Maturity Date Bid Yield (%) Offer Yield (%) Bid Price Offer Price ($’mm) in its negotiations with lend- tion and security issues lead- velopment finance instituPrices & Yields ers to defer repayments under ing to the prolonged shutdown tions (DFIs). However, these 07-Oct-11 6.75 500.00 28-Jan-21 6.17 5.94 102.20 103.09 the USD377million Accugas at the Forcados oil terminal. measures may not be enough to 12-Jul-13 5.13 500.00 12-Jul-18 4.46 4.01 101.15 101.96 IV facility, which if and when In 1H16, Seven Energy’s EBIT- restore Seven Energy’s liquid12-Jul-13 6.38 500.00 12-Jul-23 6.36 100.10 6.21 completed should improve its 1,500.00 DAX was USD66million, and ity over the medium100.88 term as short-term liquidity, liquidity 1,517.26 its free cash flow (FCF) was a current operating cash flows over the medium-term is likely negative USD81million. predominately from gas sales 25-Jul-12 7.25 25-Jul-17 6.52 insufficient 100.60 100.60capex to remain very tight and will 350.00 According to Reuters6.52 News, are to cover 09-May-13 6.88 300.00 02-May-18 22.37 18.22 79.42 84.33 remain largely determined by Seven Energy’s equity-raising and interest payments. Apart 08-Nov-13 6.00 400.00 08-Nov-18 6.00 6.00 100.00 100.00 22-Apr-14 6.25 500.00 22-Apr-19 7.75 7.75 96.50 96.50 external21-May-14 developments. of USD100million in February from the debt maturity exten8.75 200.00 21-May-19 22.61 22.61 73.03 73.03 07-Aug-13 8.25 300.00 allowed 07-Aug-20 “The external developments 2016 the company to 13.27 sion, the 82.50 company’s liquidity 14.03 84.50 24-Jun-14 9.25 400.00 24-Jun-21 14.23 13.74 82.56 84.06 include a23-Jul-14 ramp-up in 8.00 natural continue making interest and in 2016-17 largely rests on the 450.00 23-Jul-21 15.82 15.82 73.50 73.50 14-Aug-14 8.75 250.00 14-Aug-21 12.23 11.76 84.88 86.63 gas sales to around 150 million 3,150.00 principal payments in 1H16 of ramp-up of gas sales volumes, cubic feet per day (MMcfpd) by 2,739.63 USD50million and USD14mil- the successful completion of end-2016, from 95MMcfpd in Outstanding lion, respectively. However, the Risk Oron to Creek Town gas Valuation DTM Issue Date Yield @ Issue (%) Maturity Date Discount Rate (%) Premium (₦’bn) another equity raise or Yield (%)the re-opening of 1H16; the Forcados oil termi- Value absent pipeline, and (%) nal re-opening in 4Q16 follow- debt restructuring Seven En- the Forcados terminal in 4Q16. #

UPDC CP 18-OCT-16

18-Apr-16

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

11.00

16.80

18-Oct-16

2.03

18.63

18.25

7-Sep-16

16.80

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 **TREASURY BILLS^ FIXINGS Money Market Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) investment advice. We attempt to ensure the Information is accurate; however, the Information is provided “AS IS” and on an “AS AVAILABLE” basis and may not be accurate or up to date. We do not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, completeness, DTM Maturity Bid Discount (%) Offer Discount (%) Bid Yield (%) Tenor Rate (%) NIBOR performance or15 fitness for a particular purpose of any of the Information, neither do we accept liability for the15.68 results of any action16.03 taken on the basis of the Information. 22-Sep-16 15.93 OBB 33.17 Tenor Closing Rate ($/N) 29 36 43 50 57 71 85 Rating/Agency 92 99 113 120 134 148 162 169 176 183 190 197 204 211 218 225 239 246 267 281 295 302 309 316 OUTSTANDING VALUE 323 330 MARKET 337 CAPITALISATION 344 351 358

FGN Bonds

TOTAL TOTAL

Rating/Agency

6-Oct-16 13-Oct-16 20-Oct-16 27-Oct-16 3-Nov-16 17-Nov-16 1-Dec-16 Issuer 8-Dec-16 15-Dec-16 29-Dec-16 5-Jan-17 19-Jan-17 2-Feb-17 16-Feb-17 23-Feb-17 2-Mar-17 9-Mar-17 16-Mar-17 23-Mar-17 30-Mar-17 6-Apr-17 13-Apr-17 20-Apr-17 4-May-17 11-May-17 1-Jun-17 15-Jun-17 29-Jun-17 6-Jul-17 13-Jul-17 20-Jul-17 27-Jul-17 3-Aug-17 10-Aug-17 17-Aug-17 24-Aug-17 31-Aug-17

Issuer

16.08 15.60 15.20 14.54 14.93 14.43 15.15 Description 14.69 14.22 15.10 27-APR-2017 13.60 9.85 27-JUL-2017 15.94 9.35 31-AUG-2017 15.17 17.59 10.70 30-MAY-2018 17.48 ^16.00 29-JUN-201917.44 7.00 23-OCT-2019 17.59 17.81 ^15.54 13-FEB-202017.92 14.50 15-JUL-2021 17.84 ^16.39 27-JAN-202217.76 17.62 ^14.20 14-MAR-2024 17.91 ^12.50 22-JAN-202615.44 15.00 28-NOV-2028 17.82 17.22 12.49 22-MAY-2029 17.93 8.50 20-NOV-2029 17.11 ^10.00 23-JUL-203018.01 18.01 ^12.1493 18-JUL-2034 17.65 ^12.40 18-MAR-2036 17.45 17.55 17.52 18.30 18.27 18.46 18.65

Description

15.83 15.35 14.95 14.29 14.68 14.18 14.90 Issue Date 14.44 13.97 27-Apr-12 13.35 27-Jul-07 15.69 14.92 31-Aug-07 17.34 30-May-08 17.23 29-Jun-12 17.19 17.34 23-Oct-09 17.56 13-Feb-15 17.67 13-Jul-16 17.59 17.51 27-Jan-12 17.37 14-Mar-14 17.66 22-Jan-16 15.19 17.57 28-Nov-08 16.97 22-May-09 17.68 20-Nov-09 16.86 17.76 23-Jul-10 17.76 18-Jul-14 17.40 18-Mar-16 17.20 17.30 17.27 18.05 18.02 18.21 18.40

16.29

15.84 Bonds 15.47

14.83 15.28 14.84 15.71(%) Coupon 15.25 14.79 15.10 14.20 9.85 16.82 16.06 9.35 18.94 10.70 18.94 16.00 18.97 19.22 7.00 19.55 15.54 19.76 14.50 19.74 19.72 16.39 19.62 14.20 20.05 12.50 17.07 20.17 15.00 19.47 12.49 20.63 8.50 19.71 21.07 10.00 21.16 12.15 20.75 12.4000 20.56 20.78 20.82 22.02 22.07 22.44 22.82

Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Rate (%) 31.7917 19.8131 20.1519 22.8723

O/N

35.50

REPO

Maturity Date

NITTY

480.13 27-Apr-17 Tenor Rate (%) 20.00 27-Jul-17 1M 16.3190 2M 16.3538 100.00 31-Aug-17 3M 16.6979 300.00 30-May-18 6M 19.4335 351.30 29-Jun-19 9M 20.3231 12M 21.2696 233.90 23-Oct-19 606.43 13-Feb-20 179.59 15-Jul-21 NIFEX 605.31 27-Jan-22 Current Price ($/N) 719.99 14-Mar-24 NIFEX Rate 325.8125 391.02 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-34 250.00 18-Mar-36

Tenor Call TTM1M (Yrs) 3M 6M

Rate (%) 33.50 26.00 (%) Bid Yield 26.67 27.33

0.64 20.07 19.80 21.15 20.94 NOTE: 0.88 0.98 21.56 21.36 :Benchmarks 1.72 18.87 18.76 * :Amortising Bond 2.81 Bond 14.81 14.74 µ :Convertible AMCON: 3.12 Asset Management14.92 Corporation of Nigeria 14.78 FGN: Federal Government of Nigeria 3.43 Mortgage Bank 15.04 14.93 FMBN: Federal of Nigeria 4.85 14.93 14.84 IFC: International Finance Corporation LCRM: Local Management 5.39 Contractors Receivables 14.89 14.81 NAHCO: Nigerian Aviation Handling Company 7.51 15.04 14.97 O/N: Overnight 9.37Property Development 15.36 Company 15.29 UPDC: UAC WAPCO:West Cement Company 12.22 Africa Portland 15.24 15.19 12.70 15.22 15.16 13.20 15.20 15.13 13.87 15.17 15.11 17.86 15.01 14.96 19.52 15.26 15.20

6,330.16

**Exclusive of non-trading t.bills

FMBN

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Modified Duration Buckets

<3 LAGOS 3<5 *BAYELSA >5 EDO Market *DELTA *NIGER *EKITI *NIGER *ONDO *GOMBE LAGOS *OSUN LAGOS KOGI *EKITI *NASARAWA

Porfolio Market Value (₦’bn)

957.72 10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017 1,331.17 13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017 1,301.83 14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017 3,590.72 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

Total Outstanding Volume (₦’bn)

03-Apr-12

17.25

957.73 1,325.30 1,667.49 3,950.52

Weighting by Outstanding Volume

19-Apr-10 24.24 30-Jun-10 33.55 42.21 31-Dec-10 100.00 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

319.08 323.25 326.18Offer 334.70 352.19

Price

97.09 97.24 91.24 91.39 89.69 89.84 NA :Not Applicable 88.35 88.50 ^ : Market Prices 102.59Rate Bond 102.74 # : Floating ***: Deferred 80.75 coupon bonds 81.05 DTM: Days-To-Maturity 101.57 TTM: 101.27 Term-To-Maturity 98.50 ‡ : Bond rating under review 98.80 †: Bond rating expired 105.38 105.68 N/A :Not Available 96.29 96.59 {r} :Issuer in receivership 86.00 86.30 NGC: Nigeria-German Company UBA: United 98.61 Bank for Africa 98.91 84.78 85.08 62.25 62.55 70.35 70.65 82.32 82.62 82.32 82.62

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Modelled Price

0.90

03-Apr-17

0.27

2.94

18.84

99.56

% Exposure_ Mod_Duration

Implied Yield

Implied Portfolio Price

INDEX

YTD Return (%)

FMDQ FGN BOND INDEX

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

Bid Price

6285.155565

# Agency Bonds Risk Premium is a combination of credit risk and liquidity risk premiums

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

314.35 315.28

317.15 Price

5,697.23

*for the Amortising bonds, the average life is calculated and not the TTM

Nil

Spot 7D 14D 1M 2M Offer3M Yield (%) 6M 1Y

Weighting by Mkt Value

10.00 26.67 13.75 37.07 14.00 36.26 14.00100.00 14.00 14.50 14.00 15.50 15.50 14.50 14.75 13.50 15.00 14.50 15.00

0.90 0.90

Bucket Weighting

57.00 11.33 25.00 23.44 4.22 9.45 7.01 18.70 12.55 80.00 20.55 87.50 5.00 3.74 3.76

0.24 0.34 0.42 1.00

19-Apr-17 12.99 30-Jun-17 28.82 58.19 31-Dec-17 100.00 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

0.61 15.67 0.57 14.97 15.06 1.31 15.12 1.13 1.14 1.32 1.33 1.51 1.72 3.21 1.79 4.22 4.31 2.54 2.57

1.00 133.2803 5.71 147.0917 108.3158 2.39 127.3763 1.00 1.00 3.82 3.56 3.82 2.02 2.01 1.00 1.30 3.76 2.53 1.00

20.97 1,212.54 25.48 1,275.20 1,305.86 22.82 1,212.95 22.14 22.10 24.23 23.94 23.53 20.94 16.96 19.67 16.28 18.73 18.40 16.82

93.92 9.4501 94.09 25.9364 90.36 29.6760 92.52 14.9520 92.48 89.80 89.51 90.53 92.80 94.04 93.08 91.68 89.20 92.63 96.42

NEWS News|SOUTH-WEST

Babatope Okeowo Akure

fter rumour of its outbreak, the deadly Lassa fever yesterday reared its head in Ondo state.

Ondo records Lassa fever outbreak The state yesterday recorded its outbreak in Owo and Akure North Local Government areas.

CONFIRMATION/change OF NAME Oguchi: I, formerly known and addressed as Godswill Uchenna Okafor, now wish to be known and addressed as Godswill Uchenna Sunday Oguchi. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. General public please take note.

Oluwadunsin

I, formerly known and addressed as Awopetu Anthony Dunsin, now wish to be known and addressed as Awopetu Anthony Oluwadunsin. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. The general public please take note.

Samuel

I, formerly known and addressed as Ele Blessing Bassey, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Blessing Bassey Samuel. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. The general public please take note.

Adeyemi

I, formerly known and addressed as Adewumi Ayo Ololade, now wish to be known and addressed as Adeyemi Ayo Ololade. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. The general public please take note.

Dangari

I, formerly known and addressed as Samson Azeez Shodiya, now wish to be known and addressed as Dangari Samson Azeez. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. The general public please take note.

Hameed

I, formerly known and addressed as Mrs. Adenike Rashidat Otunla now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Adenike Rashidat Hameed. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Uloh

This is to notify the general public that the names James Effiong Uloh and James Effiong refer to one and same person. Henceforth I wish to be known and addressed as James Effiong Uloh. All former documents remain valid. UBA Plc, First bank Plc and the general public take note.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Aladekoye

I, formerly known and addressed as Akindehin Nancy Tope, now wish to be known and addressed as Aladekoye Nancy Tope. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. The general public please take note.

Izuchukwu

I, formerly known and addressed as Nwakanobi Raymond, wish to add Izuchukwu to my name. Henceforth wish to be known and addressed as Nwakanobi Raymond Izuchukwu. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. The

Ojubayo

I, formerly known and addressed as Ayankoya Oluwasola Ajebowale now wish to be know and addressed as Ayankoya Olusola Ojubayo. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. The general public please take note.

Favour

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Inya Patience Akanele now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Wonah Precious Favour. All former documents remain valid. N.Y.S.C and the general public please take note.

Endoroere

This is to notify the general public that Edougha Endoroere was wrongly written as my name instead of Dougha Endoroere. Henceforth I wish to be known and addressed as Dougha Endoroere. All former documents remain valid. General public should note.

Justina

This is to confirm that Goodness John Edet and Justina John refer to one and same person. Henceforth I wish to be known and addressed as Justina John Edet. Also my correct date of birth is September 25, 1986. All former documents remain valid. First bank Plc, UBA Plc and general public take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

ISAAC OLUWOLE POPOOLA ORPHANAGE HOME FOUNDATION The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and Allied matters Act. 2004. The Trustees are: 1. Mrs. Kehinde Popoola Liadi - President 2. Mrs. Taiwo Popoola 3 Mr. Gbenga Popoola AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To cater for the welfare of orphans and abandoned children. 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

DE GALAXY OF BLESSED FRIENDS SOCIAL CLUB OF NIG.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part "C" of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Degree No. 1 of 1990. The Trustees are: 1. Ekpe Bright Ugwulo. 2. Okeke John Obichereihe. 3. Livinus Chukwuemeka. 4. Onwumere Izuchuwu. 5. Onuohia Donatus Chikadibia AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO PROMOTE UNITY AND PROGRESS AMONG 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: SECRETARY

The Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNO) posted across the 18 councils of the state gave three different reports to the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Dayo Adeyanju in Akure, the State capital yesterday. According to one of its officers, its first case was reported in Eyin-Ogbe, in Owo Council area as confirmed at Irrua Specialist Hospital, Edo State. The second case which involved two individuals was also reported in

Ayede-Ogbese, Akure North area of the state. Their samples had been sent to same hospital for confirmation. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Dayo Adeyanju noted that the DSNOs were able to spring into action following proactive measures put in place to sensitize the people after the recent Anambra and Delta states outbreak. Adeyanju said: “There is active surveillance in all our LGAs, much more

Fayose warns INEC against inconclusive poll in Edo Sulaiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti

head of the Saturday’s governorship election in Edo state, the Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose yesterday counseled electorate in the state to jealously guard their votes against possible abuse and intimidation by the All Progressives Congress (APC). “The people should know that elections are not concluded until results are announced officially,” Fayose said. Besides, the governor warned the Independent National Electoral Com-

mission (INEC) and the security agencies against manipulating the election to pervert the results of the poll in favour of APC. He said the opposition Peoples Democratic Party would not condone any inconclusive from INEC, while urging Edo voters to cast their votes for the party’s candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu on Saturday. According to him, PDP remained the party capable of delivering the real and better change Nigerians needed “especially now that the shenanigans of the APC have been exposed.”

Groups roll out plans to mark Ooni’s 1st anniversary Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

oremost groups in Ile-Ife, Osun state, Mainstreetz Promotions and the Royal Court of Ife, yesterday fine-tuned plans to roll out the drums to celebrate the first anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi. Oba Ogunwusi became the Ooni of Ife on November 23, 2015 four months after his predecessor, Oba Okunade Sijuade passed on. Ahead of the Novem-

ber anniversary, Mainstreetz Promotions and the Royal Court of Ife yesterday said that they had concluded an arrangement to have carnival-like events for the Oba’s one year on the ancient throne. The groups’ spokesman, Mr Desmond Onyebuchi who made this known in a press conference in Ile-ife, said the groups had earmarked a multi-million naira budget for a pace-setting carnival that would make the programme a second to none globally.

PRP picks candidate for Ondo election Babatope Okeowo Akure

head of the November 26 governorship election in Ondo State, the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) has elected an hotelier, Chief Roland Gbenga Arigbede as its candidate for the polls. Arigbede was unanimously elected yesterday as the candidate of the party after other aspirants had stepped down. Other aspirants said they decided to step

down so as to go into the election as one body. Speaking after he was declared the PRP candidate by the Secretary, Mr Arijeloye, Arigbede promised to give other candidates of other political parties run for their money as he would beat the odds to emerge as the governor of the state. Arigbede said the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party(PDP) had disappointed the people of the country.

so that we learnt of the last outbreak in Anambra and Delta states, we felt we were likely to be prone. Our surveillance became much more active.” Adeyanju said the proactive measures had yielded results because the DSNOs and the community were able to identify the symptoms easily and promptly sprang into action. He however assured residents that there was no cause for alarm as the

confirmed cases were receiving treatment in Irrua while other suspected cases were being placed on tab to curtail every eventualities. “We need to keep tab on them and ensure that we are able to trace them to the last person so we can curtail it. At the moment there is no cause for alarm: the outbreak control team has been active, sensitization has been ongoing, jingles and other resources are maximally exploited.”

Ondo primary: Violence rocks Akoko as APC leader insists on fresh election Babatope Okeowo Akure

or the second day running, residents of Ikare in the Akoko Northeast local government area of Ondo State continued their protest against the defeat of their son, Dr Segun Abraham at the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary held at the weekend. The protesters mainly youths, market women and traditionalists brought unusual masquerades and traditionally sealed up residential houses and business concerns of people perceived to have voted against Abraham. This development came as outcry over the emergence of Mr Rotimi Akeredolu SAN as the candidate of the party thickened. Already the Chairman of the party in Ondo East Local Government, Mr Temitope Akintunde had accused some leaders of the party of corruption in order to cover up the al-

leged malpractices during the primary election. Akintunde insisted that he and the Chairman of the party in Ondo West, Mr Adeola Ademulegun had on the day of the primary petitioned the Chairman of the Electoral Committee and Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubarkar over an alleged delegates swapping and other malpractices in the election. He said supporters of Akeredolu had been reaching out to party leaders in order to withdraw petitions against the outcome of the election, insisting that nothing would make him drop the agitation until justice was done to their petitions. The protesters in IkareAkoko according to a former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Mr Taofiq Abdulsalam had the backings of two traditional rulers in the town, Olukare, Oba Akadiri Momoh and Owa Ale, Oba Samuel Adedoyin Adegbite as protesters sealed off those perceived as Abraham’senemies with palm leaves.

Lagos begins demolition of shanties, abandoned structure in Ikoyi, V/I Muritala Ayinla

agos Special Committee on clean-up of Ikoyi, Lekki, and Victoria Island yesterday said that all was set for the demolition of hundreds of shanties and illegal buildings constituting environmental nuisance in the eyebrow areas. New Telegraph learnt that a 14-day ultimatum issued by the state government will expire on Sunday which coincides with Eid-el-Kabir festival. But the newly inaugurated committee however said it was given residents the grace of Eid-el-Kabir festival as it had shifted the demolition exercise till after

the festival. Specifically, it said that it would commence the enforcement of the Environmental Sanitation and Town Planning laws in the affected areas immediately after the Sallah holidays. Briefing journalist at the state Secretariat, Alausa, Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Tunji Bello said that government was ready to get rid of illegal structure, owners of abandoned buildings now harbouring prostitutes, shanties, street hawkers and those who had converted walkways into trading points and food courts in the affected areas.

News|SOUTH-EAST

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

S’ East states owe retired teachers 70 months pension – NUP

outh East chapter of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has said that some states of the geo-political zone of the country owe retired primary school teachers 70 months pension arrears. Addressing a press conference in Enugu yesterday, the national vice president of the union, South East zone, Dr. Emeka Onwumere, who stood in for the National President of NUP, Dr. Abel Afolaya, also said that some states in the zone equally owed up to 24 months arrears of pension

and up to 16 years of gratuity to retired civil servants in the states, except Anambra which paid as at when due. Onwumere appealed to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to call out workers on a nation-wide general strike in solidarity with the senior citizens in order to force both the federal and state governments across the country to look into the plight of their members who were dying of hunger and sicknesses. He stated that NLC should not treat the problem of pensioners with lev-

ity, noting that the workers of today will be pensioners of tomorrow. He urged the federal government and the National Assembly to make a legislation that will make it mandatory for pensioners to be paid their entitlements before political office holders were paid their severance allowances. Onwumere argued that it was an anomaly to ignore those that served the country selflessly for 35 years which paying severance to political class who only served for four or eight years, even with huge remu-

nerations and perquisites of office. “Every state in the South East has myriads of problems; non-payment of this, non-payment of that. Some pensioners have for the past 20 months, been denied their monthly pensions. Some states owe retired primary school teachers up to 70 months. In some states you have some group of pensioners who are owed 24 months, some 19 months. I am a victim; I am representing our National President but in my state, Imo, I am a victim. My wife is a pensioner; I am a pensioner.”

Aba industrialists send SOS to IGP over police extortion Victor Mba ABA

he Aba Industrialists Association (AIA), Abia State, has sent a Save-Our-Soul (SOS) message to the acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) over what they described as incessant harassment and extortion by the police at Oyigbo in Rivers States. In a statement in Aba, Chairman of AIA, Chief Emmanuel Obi, said over the period, the police at

Oyigbo in Rivers State were in the habit of stopping trailers carrying raw materials or even finished goods of their members that were produced here in Nigeria and keep the truck for as long as a day or two should the driver or the owner of the goods fail to “settle” them. Narrating his members’ ordeal, Chief Obi said: “Due to bad roads, some people that are bringing palm kernel from Cross River and Akwa Ibom

States to us in Aba, instead of coming from Ikot Ekpene to Aba, they would go to Ogoni first from there to Onne, then to Port Harcourt all in Rivers State, and as they try to head to Aba, the police at Oyigbo, also in Rivers State, that I can address as a team of wicked criminals, would stop a driver that has suffered for two days on the road going through three states before getting to Abia state, they will keep them there for another one or two days for no justifi-

Agency laments low level of literacy in Abia Igbeaku Orji UMUAHIA

he Executive Director of Abia State Agency for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education, Chief Godfrey Akara, has lamented the low level of literacy in the state, describing it as unfortunate that in this jet age 40% of Abians were yet to attain expected literacy level. Akara said that although the state had made education a cardinal policy trust, yet, by the last general census, more than forty per cent of Abia population had not attained expected literacy level. He said that in the category were young boys who preferred commerce to education. The executive director, who said this yesterday while addressing newsmen in his office in Umuahia, Abia State capital, ahead of this year world literacy day celebration in the state, added that the state govern-

able reason. “There is nothing the police there will not demand from the drivers and when the driver presents all the relevant vehicle papers, including the invoice for the goods, they will demand a paper they call “product permit” or “road permit” and there is nothing like that document. The police at Oyigbo just manufactured that to extort money from the drivers and by extension from us because we are the ones Charles Onyekwere finally paying that money.” ENUGU

ment was making effort to address the anomaly. According to him, the agency in the state was established in 1994 with a mandate to ensure that citizens who had no opportunity to benefit from formal education but were still interested in further education, to take advantage of the literacy programme to enhance their education status free of charge. He noted that the target of the agency included adults, refugees, returnees and exconvicts. He noted that the focus of the present administration in the state was going away from provision of mere literacy skills to provision of vocations that will give credence to the education acquired by the people. “When someone can read and write but has no means of livelihood, the ability to read and write becomes whittled down; but when one has a means of livelihood you have built a person,” he said.

Cases of mental illness on the rise, says expert

T Abia state Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu (left) receiving an award as ‘’NEHEMIAH OF ABIA’’ by the Men’s Ministry Aba North District of Assemblies of God Church, from Rev. P.C.Emeaba, District Superintendent at Assemblies of God Church, Ukegbu Road in Aba.

he Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital Enugu has expressed concern over the high level of mental challenges across different classes of people in the country. Determined to curtail the scourge, the hospital has concluded arrangements to hold a one-week certificate course on Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. The course coordinator, Mr. Afam Ndu, who disclosed this in a press briefing ahead of the programme, equally announced that the hospital would be inducting two former governors, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu and Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo into its

hall of fame. According to him, the one-week course, with the theme “Expanding Awareness of Mental Health Challenges in Adults and Geriatrics”, will focus on current trends in psychiatric and mental health, drug and offenders, clinical assessment in adult and geriatric disorder, current management of geriatric mental disorders, treatment and rehabilitation of adult and geriatric mental disorders, among others. “The Hospital will be holding the course in collaboration with the West African College of Nursing and we are hopeful that it will help various stakeholders to easily manage mental disorders when it comes around them.”

No cracks in Okorocha’s cabinet – Nwosu

Ugwuanyi calls for relocation of Enugu prisons Charles Onyekwere

ENUGU

nugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, has appealed to the federal government to consider the immediate relocation of the present site of Enugu Prisons to a new permanent place. Ugwuanyi made the appeal during a courtesy call to the Prisons yesterday in the company with the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Prof.

Bem Angwe, the Senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District, Senator Chuka Utazi and other members of the commission. The delegation from the Commission was in Enugu on an inspection tour of the facility to ascertain its condition and level of compliance with basic human rights. Ugwuanyi noted that at the time the prison was built in 1915, the present location was then regarded as the outskirts of the city, adding that it had now become

the city centre as a result of development and urbanisation, making it unsafe and inconvenient for both the public and the prison officials. The governor said that the visit was timely in view of the recent spate of jailbreaks across the country, noting that it would “help provide insights into the immediate and remote causes of these incidents and also provide answers as to how such occurrences can be prevented in future”. He also said it was expedient to decongest the

prison given that it had gone far beyond its capacity, and lauded the officials of the Human Rights Commission on their goal to secure justice for inmates who had been on awaiting trial list longer than their offence would have attracted. Earlier in his remarks, Prof. Angwe praised the governor’s humanitarian inclinations. “Some governors spend eight years without making a single visit to prison, but you have visited more than once,” he said.

he Chief of Staff to the Governor of Imo State, Chief Uche Nwosu has dispelled insinuations of discord among top functionaries of Governor Rochas Okorocha’s administration. Nwosu, who spoke through his Press Secretary, Mrs. Vivien Onwuka, while reacting to a news report, stressed that there was no rift between the office of the Deputy Governor and that of the Chief of Staff. He noted that he had known and worked with the Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere for upwards of 10 years and their relationship was nothing but cordial and friendly.

A press statement issued by Onwuka reads in part: “There is no rift between the Deputy Governor and the Chief of Staff. They have a cordial relationship and are focused on the progress of the Rescue Mission and betterment of Imo State. “So there is no crack in His Excellency, Owelle Rochas Okorocha’s cabinet as everybody is focused on doing their job to please God and to the satisfaction of Imolites. The relationship between the Deputy Governor and Chief of Staff is even getting stronger by the day having worked with him for more than 10 years now.”

News|SOUTH-SOUTH

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Buratai: Army’ll crush criminal elements in N/Delta Delta Central PDP pass Clement James Calabar

he Chief of Ar my Staf f (COAS), Lt.Gen. Tukur Buratai, has assured the nation that the Nigerian Army was capable of and ready to crush every act of criminality and resistance in the Niger Delta region to keep peace in the country. Buratai, who was in Calabar yesterday on a one-day official visit to army formations in Cross River State, said the army will ensure that all troublemakers in the

region were caged. Speaking while inaugurating a boat hanger and five gun boats at the Amphibious Training School (ATS), Calabar, the army chief said the army was ready to monitor activities on both land and the creeks, adding that the contribution of the amphibious wing of the army was critical in achieving this. “We are launching Operation Crocodile Smile in the Niger Delta because we want to make our presence felt and to ensure that all criminal elements from the region are fished out and dealt with accordingly,” he

said. Buratai, who took a short ride on the sea, added; “our readiness to effectively safeguard the creeks in the Niger Delta was not in doubt as our amphibious personnel have been training and retraining to ensure that they fulfill their mandate.” While promising to strengthen the amphibious unit, Buratai said the military was doing everything in its power to build an impregnable security in the region. The army chief reiterated the readiness of the army to carry out its constitutional role in

accordance with international best practices, maintaining that the military will not allow anybody to threaten the peace of the nation. On his part, Commandant of 13 Brigade, Calabar, Brigadier- General Bulama Biu, said the brigade was ready to carry out its mandate within the rules of engagement. Biu commended the Chief of Army Staff for reinvigorating the army and ensuring that provision was made for the training and retraining of personnel, which he said, had helped his formation to boost security in the Niger Delta region.

ayelsa State government yesterday distanced itself from the ordeals of a civil servant currently serving with the Bayelsa State Ministry of Justice, Jonah Okah, who is facing trial at Magistrate Court 7 in Yenagoa, over criminal defamation of Mr. Ritchie Etonye, the Government House accountant. While advising him to

he leadership and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta Central, yesterday passed a vote of confidence on Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya. The confidence vote was passed at an enlarged meeting of the PDP leaders, appointed and elected members of the party from the senatorial district held at the home of the speaker in Sapele. Moving the motion, Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, said the state governor had done well in managing the affairs of the state at this

ASABA

L -2.06%

The real quarterly GDP growth rate of Nigeria for Q2 2016. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

shock and sad moment in the nation’s history. “My family and the Ibru’s family are very close. In fact his (Michael’s) mother and my mother are first cousins. Besides, they were close associates both in business and social life,” said Clark amid lamentation. According to him, the deceased was the head of the Ibru organisation worldwide, adding, “He was also a great Urhoboman, endowed with wisdom and humility, who believes in one Nigeria.” While praying to God to console his family and wish him eternal rest, the Ijaw national leader called

$41m

The total pay (including salary/winnings & endorsements) of Sebastian Vettel (Racing) for 2016. Source: Forbes.com

Clark, Bozimo, others mourn Ibru

lder statesman and former Minister of Information, Chief Edwin Clark and a former Police Affairs Minister, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo, yesterday mourned the demise of business mogul, Olorogun Michael Ibru, who died on Tuesday morning in the United States of America. They said Nigeria has truly lost a foremost and one of the finest industrialists in the country. Clark, who spoke to our correspondent on telephone, further described the development as a great

Ughelli

Dominic Adewole

The estimated amount of money spent by Premier League clubs on transfer deadline day in 2016. Source: Bbc.com

Ola James and Gabriel Efeduku

Gabriel Efeduku

critical time in the nation’s history, adding that with the cooperation from the House of Assembly, which was made possible through the leadership of the speaker, Delta Dtate was making steady progress. He added that the state executive of the party had also been doing well since elected into office and that Delta Central executive of the party was also worthy of commendation, their drive to reposition the party and the motion was seconded by Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata. Speaking earlier, Delta Central PDP Chairman, Chief A. P. Fovie, urged party faithful to persevere, noting that though the party was the opposition party at the centre; it can regain power at the centre come 2019.

Delta community protests govt’s planned demolition of 10,000 houses

L-R: Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson; Deputy Chief of Mission, United States’ Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. David Young; United States Consult-General, Mr. John Bray and the Chief of Political and Economic Section of the US Embassy, Mr. Tom Hines, during a courtesy visit to the governor in Yenagoa… yesterday…

£160m

confidence vote in Okowa

on Nigerians to emulate the selfless and exemplary life the deceased led in his life time. Also, former Police Affairs Minister, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo also poured encomiums on the departed business mogul, adding; “with the passing on of our dear brother and statesman, Nigeria no doubt has lost one of her great, successful and patriotic citizen.” He called on the Ibru family and close associates of the deceased, to accept the irreparable loss, adding; “we should take solace in the good, exemplary life led by the business icon.”

andlords, tenants and youths of Okpanam town in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State yesterday rose in anger against Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, for proposing to demolish their houses. Initially over 3,000 houses built in Ogbeowele Quarters’ new layout, adjacent the budding Asaba International Airport, were marked for demolition by the state government but the houses have increased to over 10,000.

The houses were built on a parcel of land behind the NNPC Mega Station along the popular AsabaOnitsha Expressway by indigenes and non-indigenes of the council area and the state. More than 25,000 people have been estimated to be among those to be rendered homeless if the demolition exercise is carried out. The indigenes among the protesters threatened to invoke the anger of their gods on anyone who made attempts to demolish their homes and shrines.

World Bank lauds Edo over erosion contract

he World Bank yesterday commended the Edo State Government for not interfering in the contract process of the gully erosion reclamation works at Queen Ede, Auchi and Ekenhuan, under the auspices of the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP). The World Bank Task Team Leader for NEWMAP, Dr. Amos Abu, gave the commendation when he led a delegation of officials of the Bank, the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) and relevant agencies of the Federal Government on a Technical Implementa-

tion Support Mission to Edo State. Abu said the officials were on due diligence mission to inspect the ongoing works in three gully erosion sites in the state to ascertain the level of compliance with the approved designs, as well as review the designs of new sites prepared by the government. He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done as there was value for money and commitment to transparency and accountability, adding that the World Bank was pleased to partner with the state government.

The team leader disclosed further that the designs being implemented in Edo State and other NEWMAP states were in tandem with international best practices and models and had been tested and successfully used in China, Brazil and other countries. He said the projects belonged to the Edo State Government while the World Bank and other agencies were only providing technical and financial support, stressing that no single complaint of government interference had been received from the state during the tendering process.

Bayelsa urges Okah to face trial, denies being behind travails face his trial, the government insisted that he inflicted his present ordeals on himself. A statement issued in Yenagoa by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Jonathan Obuebite, regretted that ‘someone who is on the

payroll of the government would be claiming to be a loyalist of a beleaguered opposition figure, Timipre Sylva. The government told Okah to stop dragging the judiciary into the mud, but seek ways to get himself out of the criminal defamation

for which he is facing trial. “Neither Governor Seriake Dickson or any member of his government is directly or indirectly influencing Okah’s case. It is purely a matter between him and Richie Etonye, an accountant,” it said. Obuebite said: Jonah

Okah was at various times absent from work during the last governorship election in the state, but was visible in political party rallies, using the said party (APC’s) insignia without any sanction. The statement reads in part; “Few days ago, I issued a statement enti-

tled; “Stop blaming us for Okah’s fate-Bayelsa State Government.” This was after I discovered the tissue of lies being peddled by some disgruntled elements on social media concerning Jonah Okah’s arrest and remand in prison.

News|NORTH

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

India to support Sokoto’s renal, cardiac hospital

fforts by the Sokoto State Government to establish a renal and cardiac hospital yesterday received a major boost following plans by the Indian Government to play active role in ensuring the success of the project. Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, since his

£870m

assumption of office last year has invigorated efforts at establishing a renal and cardiac hospital in the state that would attend to kidney patients. The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador B.N Reddy disclosed this yesterday when he visited the Gov-

The total amount spent by Premier League clubs on transfer in the summer of 2015. Source: Bbc.com

ernor in Abuja. “We seek to expand our cooperation with Nigeria in the medical and other sectors and this is an opportunity for us to take active part,” the Envoy was quoted to have said in a statement issued by the Media Aide to the Governor, Malam Imam Imam in Sokoto, the state

N152

The average price of Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol) of Abia State in July 2016. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

capital. He added that the relationship between India, his country and Nigeria has been cordial, saying both countries are working towards enhancing the relationship. In his remarks, Tambuwal said the proposed cardiac and renal centre would be the best in the

$40m

The total amount of salary/winnings of Sebastian Vettel (Racing) for 2016. Source: Forbes.com

country as it would serve patients from Nigeria and other West African countries. “It will be a centre of medical excellence and establishing it in Sokoto will enhance medical tourism and helps the country to conserve the much needed foreign currencies which our

Gombe: Emir mobilises parents against malnutrition

Willie Danjuma GOMBE

he Emir of Dukku in Gombe State, Alhaji Haruna Abdulkadir Rashid, yesterday noted that the Emirate will joining forces with all relevant authorities in ensuring successful elimination of malnutrition among children currently threatening the North-East. The Emir, who expressed determination of the other traditional rulers in the Emirate during a town hall meeting with stakeholders in Dukku Local Government Area of the state on scaling up nutrition activities among children, however, warned parents against noncha-

Sokoto Governor, Aminu Tambuwal (left), with Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, BN Reddy, during their meeting in Abuja

Kogi to Faleke: Stop blackmailing judiciary Zacchaeus Ozovehe Lokoja

he Kogi State Government yesterday warned the Faleke Group of the dire consequences of blackmailing the judiciary ahead of the Supreme Court judgement on the legal propriety of Alhaji Yahaya Bello’s emergence as the governor of the state. According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo, who disclosed this yesterday while addressing journalists in

Lokoja, the state capital, the report credited to the Faleke Group in which it alleged that the state will not snowball into chaos if the Supreme Court removes the Governor from office, smacks of “reckless prejudice” and an attempt at blackmailing the judiciary. He said: “I consider the statement credited to the Faleke Group to the effect that there will be jubilation on the streets of Lokoja if Governor Yahaya Bello is removed by the Supreme Court as ridiculous and prejudicial.

“Governor Yahaya Bello is building a state that will be devoid of violence, a united state where our potentials are translated to opportunities for all. We are not envisaging any form of violence in the state. Anyone planning to wage violence on the people of Kogi State should desist from doing so as the government has put structure in place to guarantee the safety of the people. “Since the Faleke Group members operate in Diaspora, they are probably underestimat-

ing the acceptance of Governor Yahaya Bello in Kogi State. Contrary to what Faleke is telling the world, especially his Lagos brothers, the administration of Governor Yahaya Bello is working hard to reposition the state and take it to higher heights. “We know the pains our Civil Service reforms have caused the workers, especially genuine workers. But the action is necessary to reposition the state and save it from the over N1.6 billion it was wasting on ghost workers every month.”

Okonkwo, yesterday said that the project was part of the initiatives to engage business solutions in resolving the water challenges confronting the rural dwellers. According to him, the Unilever UK is working in collaboration with TechnoServe in Nigeria to provide a strictly private-sector approach to solve the water problem in communities across the country. He said: “This project is self-financing. The borehole is being handled by a woman, who will

run it for 10 years after which the ownership will be transferred. With this kind of projects, the sponsor wants to move the community to invest and own critical and beneficial infrastructure. “The idea is to empower communities through investment in water and make some profit out of it. The investment by the Unilever UK will be recouped after 10 years through shareholders efforts.” Okonkwo added that “a team comprising the woman running the busi-

ness, the owner of the land on which the project was built and a fourmember advisory board would get a percentage of the business. This way, the investment is secured for the benefit of the entire population.” The TechnoServe Nigeria is currently working with eight independent women entrepreneurs operating water centres in Niger (Dabara, Tufa and Izom), Kaduna State (Tafa and Kubacha), Nasarawa State (Anguwan Dutse and Ara) and Abuja (Kwaita).

people spend in seeking medical treatments abroad,” the governor said. On plans to move the state forward, the Ambassador and governor pledged to boost trade and commerce, mining and agriculture, as well as educational ties between the two countries.

lant attitude towards proper feeding of their children. The town hall meeting, which was organised by Save the Children International (SCI), was intended to intensify action on malnutrition activities in the state following the release of N17 million counterpart funds by the state government for nutrition activities in Gombe State. According to the Emir, the message brought by Save the Children International and all actions would be taken to the hinterlands as he would mobilize all the District Heads of the Emirate, who were present at the occasion to ensure that not a single child is faced with the threat of malnutrition.

Plateau, firms sign MoU to build 5,000 housing units Musa Pam Jos

he Plateau State Government yesterday signed another Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two companies, IDS Limited and OBC Engineering Company to build 5,000 housing units for the people of the state. The documents were signed by the Commissioner of Housing and Urban Development in the state, Mr. Samuel Galadima, an architect, on behalf of the state government. According to him, Governor, Simon Lalong

was committed to delivering affordable housing scheme to the people of the state. “I believe this is the beginning of good and people-oriented projects that would happen under the Rescue Administration of Governor Simon Lalong,” the commissioner noted, even as Galadima disclosed that different classes of residential buildings would be developed under the housing scheme. He, however, assured that there would be no preferential treatment in allocating the houses to the people.

Lawmaker lauds grassroots Niger: Unilever UK sinks boreholes in rural community sports development efforts Dan Atori MINNA

he Unilever UK has constructed boreholes and a business outlet in Dabara community in Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State. The project manager, Technoserve Sunlight Water Centre (SWC) disclosed that the company donated 40 water carts and 50 numbers of 160 litres of water containers to the community for the launch of the project. The Market Consultant for the SWC, Mr. Kenneth

Willie Danjuma GOMBE

lawmaker, representing Billiri East State Constituency in the Gombe State House of Assembly, Hon. Rambi Ibrahim Ayala, has lauded the efforts at development of grassroots sports in the state. He gave the kudos, following his team’s victory at the 2016 State Division One League competition in the state, describing his club’s victory as a morale booster to do more in grassroots sports development. According to him, in an

exclusive interview with our Correspondent, Ayala, who solely financed Komta United Football Club of Billiri, said there was no better assurance for national and international glory than relying on developing the abundant talents in the grassroots. He noted that the victory of Komta United FC over Nassarawa United FC at the Pantami Stadium, Gombe in a 3-1 victory, was the first of its kind for a team from Southern Gombe State in the many years of the football competition.

News|NORTH

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

India to support Sokoto’s renal, cardiac hospital

£870m

The total amount spent by Premier League clubs on transfer in the summer of 2015. Source: Bbc.com

N152

The average price of Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol) of Abia State in July 2016. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

$40m

The total amount of salary/winnings of Sebastian Vettel (Racing) for 2016. Source: Forbes.com

Gombe: Emir mobilises parents against malnutrition

Willie Danjuma GOMBE

Sokoto Governor, Aminu Tambuwal (left), with Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, BN Reddy, during their meeting in Abuja

Kogi to Faleke: Stop blackmailing judiciary Zacchaeus Ozovehe Lokoja

Police detains late Audu’s son in Kogi Muhammad Bashir Lokoja

he eldest son of former Kogi State governor, the late Audu Abubakar, Muhammed Audu was yesterday detained by the Kogi State police command. The arrest might not be unconnected with Mohammed Audu’s reaction over the award given to his father, late Prince Abubakar Audu. Mohammed, in his recent signed press statement, described the award to his father by

Governor Yahaya Bello, as diversionary and selfserving. It was however gathered that, the detention of Audu was merely hinged on a domestic issue between Mohammed and his uncle, Alhaji Yahaya Audu. Yahaya was said to have reported to the police that some hoodlums last week invaded his residence beat him up and destroyed his properties, accusing Mohammed Audu of sending hoodlums to carry out the attack. Mohammed, who

honoured the police invitation to Lokoja from Abuja, was immediately moved from the state headquarters to the Police A division in Lokoja. Efforts to contact, the police spokesperson for the state was abortive as he did not pick calls to his phone. But in his reaction through a statement by his spokesperson, Kingsley Fanwo, Bello said he could not have ordered the police to arrest the Audu family members. He said the police should be free to work,

and that politics should not be linked with criminality. A source close to Mohammed’s family confirmed that the accused was attending to his family in Abuja, when he was invited by the police to Lokoja, over the allegation. “This is purely witchhunt. If not, how is it possible for a nephew to even insult his Uncle, talk more of attacking him. I want to believe there is more to this because this is domestic issue and it is bail able,”the source added.

Plateau, firms sign MoU to build 5,000 housing units Musa Pam Jos

Lawmaker lauds grassroots sports development efforts Willie Danjuma GOMBE

WORLD \ NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Mexico’s Finance Minister quits over Trump’s visit

exican Finance Minister Luis Videgaray has resigned following the visit of Donald Trump last week. Mr. Videgaray was seen as the main organiser of the controversial meeting between Mr Trump and President Enrique Pena Nieto. The visit was widely criti-

cised by Mexicans both in the national press and on social media. A spokesperson for the ministry said Mr. Videgaray would not take on another public office. President Pena Nieto is expected to name his replacement shortly. Mr. Trump, the Republican nominee for the US presidency, visited Mexico briefly on 1 September, despite widespread con-

demnation of some of his earlier comments about Mexican migrants to the United States. He had called Mexican migrants “criminals” and “rapists”. Such remarks led President Pena Nieto to compare the American to Italian fascist leader Mussolini, and Adolf Hitler. Mr. Videgaray has been one of the president’s closest advis-

ers, orchestrating a successful re-election campaign in 2012. However, Mr. Trump’s visit almost immediately caused public relations problems, when he appeared later that day at a rally in Arizona. There, he told the crowd Mexico would “100 percent” pay for a planned border wall, though he told reporters he had not discussed the issue with President

Pena Nieto. The president later insisted he had told Mr. Trump that Mexico would not pay. In 2014, Mr. Videgaray came under fire when a newspaper investigation revealed he had bought his home from a construction firm whose parent company had won major public contracts. He denied any wrongdoing or conflict of interest.

Outrage as Egyptian MP opposes tougher FGM laws

A Rouseff was thronged by supporters as she left the Alvorada Palace.

Rousseff leaves Brazilian presidential palace

ormer Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff has left her official residence in the capital Brasilia for the last time following her impeachment and removal from office. Supporters and colleagues gathered outside the Alvorada Palace to bid her farewell, some handing her flowers. Ms. Rousseff was dismissed last week after the Senate found her guilty of manipulating the budget. She denies wrongdoing and has dismissed

her impeachment as a “coup d’etat”. Brazilian television showed Ms. Rousseff walking out of the presidential residence surrounded by former ministers and Congressmen from her Workers’ Party. Supporter Cecilia Monteir, 56, said she was “very, very sad, feeling like the country will be left a bit orphaned”. More supporters awaited Ms Rousseff as she arrived at an airport to board a plane to the southern city of Porto Alegre, her adopted home-

town. On her arrival she was greeted by more well-wishers. Hours after the impeachment vote, Ms Rousseff ’s vicepresident Michel Temer, was sworn in, ending 13 years in power for the left-wing Workers’ Party. He will serve out Ms Rousseff ’s term until 1 January 2019. Ms. Rousseff has filed an appeal at the Supreme Court against the Senate’s decision but correspondents say it has very little chance of succeeding.

Theresa May: UK will lead world in free trade

heresa May said the UK could become “the global leader in free trade” as she faced calls to clarify the government’s post-Brexit vision. Making a G20 summit statement, the PM refused to give a “running commentary” or “reveal our hand prematurely”. She was speaking in the Commons after Australia and the UK began “preliminary discussions” about a new trade deal. Australian trade minister Steven Ciobo predicted an agreement between the countries “when the time is right”. But with the UK unable to sign deals while still in the European Union, he said an agreement would not be able to happen until the UK left the EU in two-anda-half years’ time. Australian has been earmarked as the first potential new trade partner for the UK once it leaves the EU. Addressing MPs, Mrs May said India, Mexico, South Korea and Singapore were also keen to remove trade barriers. She pledged to “think through the issues in a sober and considered way”, adding: “So we

will not take decisions until we are ready. We will not reveal our hand prematurely and we will not provide a running commentary on every twist and turn of the negotiation.” During her statement, Mrs May was urged to set out what the government wanted to achieve from Brexit negotiations, with the SNP’s Westminster leader Angus Roberston asking: “Does she seriously expect to be able to hold out for years in not confirming whether she wants the UK to remain a member of the single market?” Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said it was “unclear” what the government was “trying to do”. He accused Mrs May of supporting “free trade dogma” rather than a policy that “values human rights and human dignity”. The Labour leader later faced calls to clarify whether he supported the UK’s continuing membership of the EU single market. Labour sources said Mr Corbyn thought the UK’s Brexit negotiations should aim to secure “full access to the single market” in goods

and services. But a spokesman for the Labour leader said Mr Corbyn had campaigned against aspects of the single market and would oppose a deal that included “aspects of the existing architecture” that were damaging to working people and public services. Asked if Mr Corbyn wanted the UK to remain a full member of the EU single market the spokesman said there was a question about what “membership of the single market” actually meant. Labour MP and Remain campaigner Chuka Umunna called for clarity from his party, saying: “Labour should be fighting for Britain to stay in the single market, not turning a blind eye to its advantages.” The government does not plan to begin the formal twoyear Brexit process by triggering Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty until the start of next year at the earliest. Brexit Secretary David Davis has predicted a “round of global trade deals” will be “fully negotiated” within 12 to 24 months, coming into force when the UK leaves the EU.

n Egyptian MP has stirred controversy after rejecting tougher penalties for those who force women into genital mutilation (FGM), saying half of the country’s men “are impotent”. Parliament last week approved longer jail terms for those carrying out FGM, following the death of a teenage girl. MP Ilhami Agina responded by saying FGM was needed in order to reduce women’s sexual appetite, to match Egypt’s men. The procedure is still widespread in Egypt despite being illegal since 2008. It involves the partial or full removal of the external

sex organs, ostensibly to control women’s sexuality. “This is a scientific fact based on research. Fifty per cent of Egyptian men are sexually impotent. This is a disease,” Mr Agina said in a TV interview. “One proof is the spread of imported and local sexual stimulants in the market. Egypt is one of the largest importing countries.” He was quoted by other Egyptian media as saying the procedure was needed so women would “reduce their sexual desires” to match that of Egypt’s “sexually weak” men. “If we stop FGM, we will need strong men and we don’t have men of that sort.”

Apple: Irish tax criticisms unfair, says Noonan

ritics of Ireland’s tax regime are drawing outdated and unfair caricatures, the Republic’s Finance Minister Michael Noonan has said. The Irish parliament has been recalled early to debate the European Commission’s ruling that the country granted undue tax benefits of up to £13bn (£11bn) to Apple. It follows the decision by the Irish government to appeal the ruling. Mr. Noonan said Apple had not been shown favouritism. “It is simply untrue that Ireland provided favourable treatment to Apple,” said the finance minister. “The reaction to the European Commission’s decision has, at times, painted an outdated and unfair caricature of Ireland’s position on tax. “This is a caricature that is at odds with the evidence and which overlooks our proven track record in recent years. “The facts show our constructive engagement at the international table, with matchless

implementation of reforms ahead of many of our partner countries. ”He said the European Commission ruling encroached on sovereign states’ decisions on tax and contained contradictions on where Apple owed tax. Micheál Martin, leader of Fianna Fail, said it had not been shown that there had been “selective treatment for one company”. “A five-year investigation, including an unprecedented and targeted trawl of revenue files, has produced an assertion, but no evidence,” he told the debate. However, Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams said there had to be fairness in taxation. “There can’t be one set of rules for some and different rules for others, with small and medium sized enterprises - the backbone of our economy - weighed down by government tax policies, while one very large company pays less than 1 percent corporation tax.”

Turkey releases more than 35,000 prisoners to make room in jails

urkish authorities have released more than 35,000 prisoners to free up space in its crowded facilities. A media report said yesterday in Istanbul that 7,450 convicted felons and 28,522 people awaiting sentencing have been released from prisons. It said the release was aimed at concluding the official measures announced three weeks ago. Turkish media have reported that prisons have become over-

crowded amid a far-reaching government crackdown that has resulted in the arrests of thousands of citizens in the wake of a July 15 military coup. It said under Turkey’s current state of emergency, authorities have passed measures allowing for about 38,000 people convicted before the coup to be released under certain conditions. Prisoners convicted of serious crimes such as murder or rape were excluded from the measure.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sport News

Did you know?

Sport

NPFL: Enyimba dent Wikki’s title hopes

The highest attendance at the US Open for a single day was recorded in 2006 when over 60,000 spectators were at the venue of the event.

International Sport Sagna fit for Manchester derby

46 47

Owolabi: Rohr needs more games to fix Eagles

Ikenna Amadi

former international, Felix Owolabi, has urged the Nigeria football Federation to arrange more friendly games for the Super Eagles to boost the rebuilding of new coach, Gernot Rohr. Owolabi told New Telegraph on Tuesday that the German would need more games to effectively evaluate the players and determine the role to assign them in his plans. The 1980 African Cup of Nations winner said that regular friendlies would help Rohr work on the flaws in the Eagles.

Rohr

“As a new handler of the team, it is important to know the character of every individual player in the team. He will use that to build a solid squad for himself and Nigeria. Before you can get the best, you have to engage the players in many trainings and competitive games. The friendlies will give the coach an idea of what the players can do, their abilities, areas of strength and otherwise,” he said. The CAF Confederation Cup winner stressed that Rohr’s philosophy should be respected as the coach looks to improve the team’s performance. ‘’Every coach has his own character and philosophy. For example, England won their match against Slovakia away with a 4-1-4-1 system. With this, a German man can decide to play a 4-3-3, 4-2-4 or even 4-4-2 system. It depends on the calibre of players the team has, then the coach will decide that this is the kind of team that he wants to build on. It is not a matter of trying to interfere the tactical position of any coach knowing full well the calibre of players that will be suitable for any role and how comfortable it will be for a coach to integrate the players into a system,’’ Owolabi said. The Super Eagles defeated Tanzania courtesy of a solitary strike

Odion Ighalo (left)

from Manchester City forward Kelechi Iheanacho. The victory was not enough to earn Nigeria a ticket to Gabon 2017 as Egypt had already picked the only slot in the group. Owolabi stressed that there was room for improvements in the aftermath of that game and that the coach could use it as an opportunity to further make the Eagles stronger.

‘’Even though it was an inconsequential game, even if Nigeria had won 10-0, Egypt had already picked the sole ticket. However, it was a good opportunity for the new coach to access the players and to know which areas to work on. I am happy he said that the team had about twelve chances and we could only score one and besides that he needed to work on the defence too.’’

CAF halts Pinnick’s FIFA ambition NFF denies bid

Ugochi Akwueze

The Sport Team Adekunle Salami Group Sport Editor

Emmanuel Tobi Assistant Sport Editor

Ajibade Olusesan Sport Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya Sport Correspondent

resident of the Nigeria Football Federation , Amaju Pinnick, has lost the chance to contest for a FIFA council seat, after CAF refused to endorse his nomination. Seven candidates have already been announced by the Confederation of African Football for the elections into the FIFA Council which holds on the 29th of this month. their names are as follow: Almamy Kabele Camara of Guinea, Suketu Patel of Sychelles, Kwesi Nyantakyi of Ghana, Ahmad of Madagascar, Augustin Senghor of Senegal, Hamidou Djibrilla and Chabur Goc Alei representing Niger and South Sudan respectively.

The selected candidates will go through the FIFA integrity test, before their names are finally approved for the ballot. According to African Football.com, “Pinnick’s invitation of Gianni Infantino and 17 other African football federation presidents in July was only a cover-up to seek for support for his bid to contest for one of the FIFA seats, and this much has been confirmed by the man himself ”. Pinnick who complained about Nigeria’s absence in the CAF and FIFA council disclosed his intention to represent the country at the global Pinnick

level. “As big as Nigeria, we don’t have a representative in CAF or in FIFA, so if I am ambitious to go to CAF or FIFA, yes because I am the President of the NFF, not because I’m just a member,” Pinnick said. “I am praying about it and if God wishes, why not?” Meanwhile, the NFF Secretary General, Mohammed Sanusi, stated that at no time did Pinnick, who is a member of the CAF Organising Committee for the Africa Cup of Nations, filled form to be considered for CAF nomination for the FIFA Council. “Although the truth is that Nigeria is big enough as a country to have a member in the esteemed FIFA Council, Mr. Pinnick, did not fill form for CAF to consider him for nomination. “It is not an illegitimate ambition for a Nigerian to aspire to be in the FIFA Council. In the future, perhaps Mr. Pinnick or any other worthy Nigerian who is able to receive the support of the government will approach CAF to be nominated to the Council.”

SPORT NEWS

Eagles will get bonus for Tanzania win – NFF

he Nigeria Football Federation will still pay the Super Eagles a bonus for a 1-0 win over Tanzania at the weekend, officials have disclosed. NFF spokesman Ademola Olajire said on a radio programme Wednesday morning that the Eagles would be paid the match bonus possibly before next month’s World Cup qualifier in Zambia. “They will be paid the bonus later, possibly before the World Cup qualifier in Zambia,” Olajire announced. Nigeria travel to Zambia on October 3 to begin their qualifying campaign for Russia 2018. The players were left fuming after a cash gift of N10 million Naira by Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel was used to offset their camp allowances. Cash-strapped NFF has insisted the money was part of the donation from the Governor to help them organise the AFCON qualifier in Uyo.

Olajire

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

NPFL: Enyimba dent Wikki’s title hopes Abia Warriors, IfeanyiUbah end tie in draw

Charles Ogundiya

efending champions of the Nigeria Professional Football League, Enyimba, put a dent on the title hopes of Wikki Tourists after handing them a 2-1 defeat in a rescheduled game played in Port Harcourt on Wednesday. Wikki made their intention known in the game as they took the lead in the 42nd minute when league top scorer, Godwin Obaje, rose highest to head home Alhassan Abdullahi’s cross. Enyimba however responded with the last kick of the half with Nzube Anaezemba scoring the equaliser. With five minutes into the second half, Anaezemba scored what would later be the winner as the game ended 2-1. Obaje thought he had scored the equaliser in the 64th minute but the flag was already up for an offside and Anaezemba almost got his hat trick when he had a freekick saved by Nwabulu in goal for the visitors. In Umuahia, the game between Abia Warriors and IfeanyiUbah ended 1-1 with unconfirmed report claiming that the referee was held hostage after the game. Ndifreke Effiong got the opener for the home team at the beginning of the second half, but a last minute goal by the visitors from a goalmouth scramble after a badly set off-

Action in a Nigeria Premier League game between Abia Warriors and IfeanyiUbah in Umuahia... yesterday

side trap gave them a share of the spoil. A source at the stadium

fficials of the League Management Company are worried over the contempt charge from a Jos High Court as the management rose from its meeting on Wednesday, after receiving the contempt charge, without a cut out plan on what to do but rather agreed to consult more Senior Advocates of Nigeria for advice. A top source from the company said tempers went high over the decision of the company to go ahead with league matches last weekend, when it could have done the right thing by reinstating Giwa Football Club. Meanwhile, the Jos High Court is expected to serve Form 49 to the league body on Thursday. Officials of the LMC including, the chairman, Shehu Dikko, and the Chief Operating Officer, Salisu Abubakar, and the 19 premier league clubs are expected to face a contempt of court charge for deliberately disobeying the order of a court of a competent jurisdiction mandating the stoppage of the Nigeria Premier Football League until Giwa FC is reinstated. A High Court in Jos had last week ordered the LMC to either reinstate Giwa FC in the ongoing Nigeria Premier League and continue with the appeal or suspend the league and wait for the outcome of their appeal, which they flouted. When they received the Order, the LMC issued a statement declaring that they would not obey the order, and went ahead with

the league on the premise that they had filed for a ‘stay of execution’ and had appealed the matter. The contempt letter served to LMC on September 6, 2016, read; “In the High court of Justice of Plateau state holding at Jos, in the matter of an application by Mustafa Abubaka for himself and on behalf of Giwa Football Club Limited, the applicant had sued the League Management Company Limited, the Nigeria Football Federation and or the Nigeria football Association, through the Plateau Football Club Limited for himself and on behalf of all the other 19 football clubs in the Nigeria Professional Football League except Giwa Football Club, Jos” But, the plaintiff, Mustafa Abubakar who felt undone by the action of the LMC, seeing it as a total violation of the order of the court went back to report. And, the court in response to his complaint issued a contempt charge on the LMC officials.

by the fans for what they claimed to be a bad officiating.

Zambia ready for Nigeria,says captain Emmanuel Tobi

aptain of Zambia national team, Rainford Kalaba, has said the Chipolopolo are ready to defeat Nigeria’s Super Eagles when both teams clash in the first match of the Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers billed for October. The Chipolopolo will start their quest for a place in Russia 2018 when they host the Super Eagles in Lusaka in October.

LMC panics over contempt charge

confirmed to New Telegraph that the match officials were held hostage

Speaking with Zambia Daily Mail, the midfielder expressed confidence in his team’s ability to cause an upset by clinching the group’s sole ticket. “It’s a difficult group no doubt but nothing is impossible in football,” he said. “Nigeria, Algeria and Cameroon have quality players in their squads but we must not allow ourselves to be intimidated by them. “If we put in our best, I’m sure we will create a major upset in the group. It’s not something that is going to be easy but it is achievable.”

Conte hands Mikel new role at Chelsea

uper Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has been handed a new role by coach of Chelsea Antonio Conte. The Super Eagles captain, who is presently Chelsea second longest serving player in the squad has been juggling with two different roles. Mikel plays as a defensive midfielder for Chelsea but plays in a more advanced role for Nigeria. Owngoalnigeria.com gathered Conte has decided to hand him same role as he plays in the Nigeria national team as part of the sweetener, he wants to use

in luring the 29 year old to sign a new deal at Stamford Bridge. Conte signed N’Golo Kante for the role Mikel has been alternating with Nemanja Matic, raising doubts about the chances of the Nigerian getting to play games for the team this season, but we gathered that talks were held during the week, where Mikel was promised a role same as the one he plays for the Nigeria national team. “Mikel and Conte had a chat about his role in the team, although he has been

Mikel

assured he will be played in the role that suits him the more by the manager. He is also ready to fill in anywhere he is needed for the team,” a source close to the player told Owngoalnigeria. com.

SWAN hails Quadri’s rise on ITTF rankings

Quadri

he Sports Writers Association of Nigeria commends Nigeria’s number one table tennis player, Aruna Quadri, on his latest feat by becoming the first African to be among the top 25 players in the world. The association commends Quadri for his drugfree career and urged him not to rest on his oars by bringing

more honours to the country. SWAN said in a press statement that: “We are indeed proud of what Quadri has done for Nigeria. He is a shining star and one that should be emulated in the sporting world where some athletes have engaged in the use of performanceenhancing drugs. “With his immense rise

and God-given talent, he has brought hope and direction for many youths in Nigeria who are in the sport. It is a challenge to them and belief that they can rise even beyond Quadri’s feat. We urge government at all levels to create conducive environment for sports men and women desirous of Quadri’s feat.”

INTERNATIONAL SPORT

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sagna fit for Manchester derby

acary Sagna has declared himself fit for Saturday’s eagerly-awaited Manchester derby. The City defender has missed his club’s last three matches due to a hamstring injury, but now hopes to force his way into the side to play at Old Trafford. The 33-year-old told the club’s website: “I feel good. I had to rest a bit because I had a little tear on one of my hamstrings. “I had a long season

Sagna (left)

last year, so I need to take care of my body, but today I feel great. I am looking forward to Saturday. “I am going to be giving my maximum in the training sessions to feel as fit as possible, then the manager might have to make some choices.” Sagna is one of a number of players who could be back in contention this weekend, with captain Vincent Kompany and midfielders Ilkay Gundogan and Leroy Sane now all training as normal.

US Open: Tyson Fury, Klitschko rematch for October 29 Djokovic, Monfils T renew rivalry yson Fury’s sensational victory in November 2015 was Klitschko’s first defeat in 11

ovak Djokovic boasts a dozen wins in as many matches against Gael Monfils, but the world number one remains wary of the exuberant Frenchman heading into their US Open semifinal showdown on Friday. “He seems more focused at this time of his career,” Djokovic said. “Especially the hard court (season) this year, maybe he’s playing the best tennis he ever played. He’s very consistent. He hasn’t dropped a set till semis. “That says a lot about the level he’s on.” Tenth-seeded Monfils booked his first Grand Slam semi-final since Roland Garros in 2008 with a crisp 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 victory over weary compatriot Lucas Pouille. Pouille, 22, was coming off three successive five-setters -- the last of them a stunning triumph over 14-time major winner Rafael Nadal. There was little of the leaping and diving from Monfils that fans have come to love -- and which Djokovic himself said makes Monfils one of his favorite players to watch. “He’s one of the few players that I will definitely pay a ticket to watch,” Djokovic said. “He’s very charismatic. Plays with a smile. Enjoys tennis, enjoys life.”

Djokovic

years Tyson Fury’s world heavyweight title rematch with Wladimir Klitschko has been confirmed for 29 October. British world champion Fury, 28, claimed the WBO, WBA and IBF belts from the 40-year-old Ukrainian in November 2015, but pulled out of a July rematch with an ankle injury. The fight is at Manchester Arena. “I’m delighted that we can finally get the fight back on. We can now

focus on giving the fans what they deserve,” said Fury’s manager and uncle Peter. Klitschko was undefeated for 11 years and had held the belts since 2006 before losing to Fury in Dusseldorf on a unanimous points decision. He tweeted: “Finally the rematch is fixed. I’ll remedy my mistake on 29 October at Manchester Arena. See you there.” Manchester fighter Fury is unbeaten in 25 professional bouts, with 18 knock-outs, while Klitschko is 64-4, with 54 knock-outs.

Tyson (right)

Barcelona consider fielding women’s team in America J

osep Maria Bartomeu, Barcelona’s president, says the club are interested in creating a women’s football team to play in America’s NWSL. Barcelona opened new offices in New York this week – the official launch was attended by Ronaldinho, Hristo Stoichkov and David Villa, among others and Bartomeu said the club was looking at various possibilities to expand its brand in the US. Bartomeu said he wanted “create a team that can take part in the National Women’s Soccer League” in the form of a franchise “that will help us to promote the club”. “The women’s football league here is very interesting,” Bartomeu said. “We’re thinking about the option, in the future, of having our own

team here, to compete at the maximum level, and to help us become more well known.” The NWSL were yet to respond to a request for comment. The Barcelona women’s team currently competes in Spain’s Primera Division, and won four successive titles between 2012 and 2015. Last year, Athletic Bilbao won their fifth title.

Maria

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

Dalung and the NSC law “I gained knowledge when I succeeded, I gained wisdom when I failed” – William Chapman

“T

uesday Night Live” on NTA had been one television sitcom that had been revealed by a national television for about three decades And Had filled in for those of us old enough to catch-up with the Art Alade – Bar Beach Show”, The Ted Mukoro-led “Village headmaster” in whose memory one remembers” Chief Eleyinmi”-(Funso Adeolu) who later in reality became an Oba as well as” Councilor Balogun”-(Wole Amele) who also became a royal in Aramoko-Ekiti and Jacob Abiodun Babajide (J.A.B.) Adu as that pharmacist. Later came “Cock Crow at Dawn”. In reality however, Tuesday Night Live as presented by my friend-Danladi Bako-who was later to open the Radio and Television space for private broadcasting-as Director-general of the Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation(NBC)-brought a fresh expression for a must watch. I had glued all through while Yinka Craig and Cyril Stober came on but last week it was a different ball-game. In came Youth and Sports Minister, who also doubles as Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC)-Solomon Dalung. Apart from sharing the name with son of the biblical Israeli King - David and who sought only wisdom from the Almighty in the governance of “His People”-Dalung is also a BarristerAt-Law, which in effect, I expect that he MUST have digested in this close to one year in office Decree 13 0f 1973 as amended in 1979, that gave legality to that entity that was running sport. That Law established that Commission to oversee the affairs of sport in the country. I appreciate the frustration of Dalung after his five gold medals promise to President Muhammadu Buhari went up in smoke in an attitude of a man who put the cart before the horse in matters of the Rio 2016 Olympic games. Dalung ought to have realised he was presiding over a crumbling empire as most of the “technocrats” and sports professionals have been “kicked out” of the Ministry and the NSC only for “hard core” civil servants to take charge. Dalung also failed to appreciate a fundamental fact that the Constitution of this Country as promulgated in 1999 when President Olusegun Obasanjo was swornin places sport on a pedestal where the Federal, States and Local Governments have the power of legislation. Dalung’s argument that the merging of the Youth ministry with that of sports made civil servants endorse the administrative fiat over the LAW within the purview of the NSC. I disagree. The NSC still remain a LEGAL entity and it has been so through the Military era when late Brigadier Damien Kehinde Sho-Silva was Chairman and Major Maharajah Mamudu was Secretary according to the NSC Decree. Government also appreciated that status as Chiefs Alex Akinyele, Sylvanus Akinwunmi, Sola Rhodes became NSC Executive Chairmen with cabinet status under the Sani Abacha administration. Sadly they ran the NSC as fiefdom not invoking Section 1.2 (a/b/c) which imposes a Board constituted by the Sports Federation Presidents and the President/Secretary of the Nigeria Olympic Committee. That law if invoked will save Dalung the heartache of being a “sole administrator” as inherited by Chief Jim Nwobodo, late Emeka Omeruah, Damishi Sango and Ishaya Mark Aku. Actually Aku began a reform process to invoke the LAW in tinkering with that Decree as an Act of the National Assembly until his life and others were claimed by that air crash. His successor-Steven Ibn Akiga had the “distraction” of the 2003 All-Africa Games hosted in Abuja to make any impact and from Col Musa Mohammed to Sani Ndanusa it had been “eating-your-cake-and keeping-same.” By merging those offices and moving in a “barber’s Chair. Dalung need not search for too long to redeem anything left with pride before jetting out to Rio for the Paralympic Olympics where I feel medals will be wonin whatever colours-as what is needed is a full BOARD for the NSC as DICTATED by the existing law and the convergence of the 774 Local Governments in the country for the consideration of excelling in various Areas of sports excellence as naturally endowed within our nation. The resources for discovery and maintenance will be less as States co-ordinate and the NSC becomes a clearing house. Dalung has another chance. Let him take it.!

On Marble

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PDP, Obasanjo and Statesmanship Statesmanship is harder than politics. Politics is the art of getting along with people, whereas statesmanship is the art of getting along with politicians. – Fletcher Knebel

hen the People’s Democratic Party PDP was at incubation stage in 1998, then retired General Olusegun Obasanjo was languishing in jail in Adamawa state. When some 34 courageous Nigerians led by the second republic Vice President Dr. Alex Ekwueme took that historic bold step of confronting the military and successfully pressurizing them into retreating to the barracks for democracy to find space, Obasanjo was in captivity. As a younger political journalist covering the first ever National Convention of the PDP in Jos, Plateau state capital in 1998, I recall vividly the shock that greeted the convention arena when the then ruling military mafia under the watch of the two Minna Generals Ibrahim Babangada and Abdulsalami Abubakar successfully manoeuvred the convention to turn the table against Dr. Ekwueme for a fresh from prison former Military Head of state Obasanjo. The then political class was taken aback as they did not anticipate it but they had very little window with the military who were being helped to go. The military cabal did not feel power could be entrusted to anyone outside ‘their family’ and added to that was a calculated design to assuage the nerves of the South West geo political areas which indeed was very restive over the annulment of June 12, 1993, Presidential election perceived to have been won by one of their own, Chief Moshood Abiola even though the region did not originally want him. That became the first step to ensure that full democracy as envisaged by the PDP founding fathers never materialized. It was also a clear indication that the outgoing military desired more than a passing interest in the evolving democratic system. Obasanjo then became the huge beneficiary of the struggle of these great Nigerians even though he was not part of the conception as he became the democratic President in a PDP platform for eight years. The foundation of what was to come both in PDP and in Nigeria’s democracy was laid under him. Soon after he was sworn in, Obasanjo did not conceal any sign that he was going to tinker with some democratic ingredients. The party became his second point of call after injecting crisis in theNational Assembly for obvious reasons, he ensured the removal of the first National Chairman late Solomon Lar, and opposed late Chief Sunday Awoniyi, the popular choice of the party leaders for Lar’s replacement. When Chief Audu Ogbeh emerged National Chairman, the same Obasanjo facilitated his exit for having the audacity to have a different view from his own on the Anambra state crisis

Political Musings IKE ABONYI igwebuike2001@yahoo.com 0802-402-4029 (sms only) where the then Governor Chris Ngige was having issues with Chris Ubah an ally of Obasanjo. Under Obasanjo’s tenure, no PDP National Chairman lasted through their statutory tenure all because the President’s personal interest clashed with the party interest. The first time the party convention tried to take the right step to democratically elect its national officers, not through imposition was in 2007 when two Ebonyi state sons, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim and Dr. Sam Egwu went round the country soliciting for votes from delegates but at the convention ground the delegates already set to cast their votes with pundits favouring Anyim ahead of Egwu ( Obasanjo’s choice) but Baba would not take that and he truncated it and installed instead Sir, Vincent Ogbulafor an original All Nigeria Peoples Party member who was not in contention and who was just coming into the country from abroad where he went for an eye surgery. Since Chief Obasanjo left office in 2007 there has been no political stability both in the party and the country. The choice of obviously a disinterested sick former Governor of Katsina State Umaru Yar Adua as his successor against all protestation from the party created the lingering instability that eventually led to the defeat of PDP in 2015. Ditto the choice of Yar Adua’s running mate, another clearly unambitious then Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan against Governor of Rivers state Dr. Peter Odili who indeed worked for it. These were among many Obasanjo decisions that brought the nation’s democratic journey to its current near comatose state.. Yar Adua’s death brought Jonathan through doctrine of necessity and shortened the PDP zoning arrangement, an action that basically caused the defeat of PDP more than any other variables. It’s therefore against this backdrop that the attitude of Chief Obasanjo on PDP is not only baffling but disappointing. Regardless of the empirical evidence catalogued above showing that the design and the sowing of the current PDP crisis gown was actually made inside Chief Obasanjo’s political workshop, he is also on record as the highest beneficiary of this platform more than any Nigerian dead or alive. Chief Obasanjo’s recent utterances on the party including tearing of membership card are like an old boy of a College desiring the demise of the college where he was the head boy just because the current Principal and management of the college are not agreeable to him.

Obasanjo

Many political watchers had thought that Obasanjo would be more interested in creating institutions and structure to sustain our democracy but all indicators point to the road that the elder statesman is not interested in an enduring democratic institution. It’s disheartening that Chief Obasanjo should be openly celebrat-

ing the demise of a platform that gave him such a huge opportunity in life. Even if the current leaders angered him is it enough to throw away the baby and the bath water? What would he gain if PDP dies? Even if the actions of a Buruji, a Fayose, and a Jonathan among others caused him to tear his membership card and denounce the party, has Obasanjo forgotten that all these characters were brought into national limelight of the party by him? Or is he confirming the views of some school of thought that he has refused to forgive the party for truncating his third term ambition. One had expected Obasanjo to pick some lessons from what is currently going on in America where a crazy billionaire came and hijacked the Republican Party and has been throwing stones at anything that passes on his way to the White House , but rather than throw away their party, the Republicans including former Presidents are only denouncing the individual Donald Trump and holding on to their cherished party. Not even the National Working Committee of the Republican Party who midwifed the Trump emergence are being attacked, rather the people have been careful to save their party and are only punching at the individual who is seen as the problem. Chief Obasanjo’s seeming excitement at the fate of the party that gave him platform to rule this country for eight years, an accomplishment no other Nigerian has gotten is distinctly not statesmanlike and very uncharitable. Something certainly is wrong with a nation whose elders are not statesmanlike in conduct and whose interests are often not national. God bless Nigeria.

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