Tuesday, april 12, 2016 binder1 by Newtelegraphonline

N630bn annual food import bill not sustainable –CBN gov Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

he Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, has said that the

annual food import bill of N630 billion was unsustainable, given the current economic situation of the country. The governor called for

the immediate diversification of the economy to agriculture and agro-based industries. He added that apart from creating employ-

ment and ensuring food sufficiency for the people, the diversification would also increase the foreign exchange base of the nation. The governor, in a key-

World Bank cuts nigeria, others' 2016 growth forecasts

note address delivered yesterday during the Nigerian Agri-finance Conference in Abuja, said: “With an annual food imports bill of over N630 billion (decreased from N1.3 trillion), unemployment rate of 9.9

per cent and poverty, economic diversification is no longer optional, but a necessity to reposition our economy to attain inclusive growth and global competitiveness.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Jonathan hired Metuh for election publicity –Witness }6

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Vol. 3 No. 783

Metuh

Nigerians suffering under Buhari – ASUU }5

Fagge

Kidnappers kill pastor for preaching repentance }8

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The suspected killers

Ekiti, Osun polls: AGF to prosecute Aluko, ex-ministers, PDP chieftains }5

N150

Senate tackles Buhari ‘

Aluko

If the presidency expects us to return the budget proposal to them without any adjustments, then some people must be living in a different era and probably have not come to terms with democracy

‘

Lagos-Calabar rail line not in fiscal proposal –Dogara }2

President Muhammadu Buhari alighting from the plane at the Beijing International Airport, during his state visit to the People's Republic of China… yesterday.

Kaduna govt buried 347 corpses in mass grave

Scientists find new genes responsible for stroke, dementia

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TUESday, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Budget controversy: Senate tackles Buhari

Chukwu David Abuja

iqued by the reports that the National Assembly mutilated the 2016 budget, the Senate yesterday came hard on the Presidency, accusing the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration of setting Nigerians against the parliament. The Senate stated that Buhari submitted “excessively flawed and chaotic versions of the budget proposal” that forced lawmakers to bend backwards to wring a coherent document out of the president’s version.

It counselled the Presidency to own up to its failure in the budgeting process instead of engaging in surreptitious campaigns of calumny against the parliament “in order to cover up its serial errors.” Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, in a statement issued in Abuja yesterday, noted that it helped the executive to manage the hugely embarrassing situation “it has brought upon itself” and urged the Presidency to come clean with Nigerians on the 2016 Budget. He said though the constitution empowers the executive to prepare and

lay budget proposals to the National Assembly for approval, it is the constitutional responsibility of the legislature to allocate projects and appropriate funds for the execution of such projects. He said: "While the executive is mandated to prepare and lay before the National Assembly a proposed budget detailing projects to be executed, it should be made clear that the responsibility and power of appropriation lies with the National Assembly. "If the presidency expects us to return the budget proposal to them without any adjustments,

then some people must be living in a different era and probably have not come to terms with democracy.” Top government officials had accused the National Assembly of altering the budget. Specifically the altered areas in the budget, which the presidency considers unacceptable, are funds proposed for key infrastructure projects, but which were either removed from the budget or slashed drastically by the National Assembly as shown in the details presented to the president. One of the projects is the Coastal Railway project. Government was said

Sokoto State Governor, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal (third left), with other officials of the state government, inspecting seeds nursery at the Henan Organic Farm in Zhengzhou, China.

Lagos-Calabar rail line not in budget – Dogara Philip Nyam Abuja

peaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has described reports that the National Assembly removed the Lagos-Calabar rail project from the 2016 budget as barefaced lies. In a series of tweets yesterday, Dogara denied that there was any inclusion of proposal for the LagosCalabar rail project in the budget. He said the argument that Minister of Transportation, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, submitted the proposal does not hold water. "Barefaced lies, where is the existence of the provision of N60 billion for Coastal Rail line in the budget estimate?” he queried. "The relevant question to ask is: was it provided for in the budget estimate sent to the National Assembly? The Transport Minister, Rotimi Amaechi, doesn't have any constitutional power to prepare a budget estimate and lay it before the National Assembly," he stated.

The speaker reasoned that the story was the handiwork of mischiefmakers who are bent on causing friction between the presidency and the legislature. He asked: “Who in the executive said so? Details of the Federal Ministry of Transport, FMOT budget estimates are out there, kindly review it and give me budget code. "Who in the Presidency said so? The presidential spokesman or the Information Minister? Name the source!” Dogara added: "Playing this North-South game is unhelpful. That is simply the goal of the planters of this fiction." "Nothing like Presidency is involved here, it is a shameless falsehood meant to stir hatred. It is most despicable, absolute rubbish. "They are smart enough to demand for the evidence, let them publish it if they have any evidence; if it is actually coming from the Presidency." Corroborating the speaker’s position at a media briefing, chairman of the House Committee on

Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Abdulrazaq Namdas, reiterated that the budget proposal presented by Buhari never contained the Lagos-Calabar coastal rail project. He said: “I want to make it clear that the proposal sent by the president does not have anything like the Lagos-Calabar coastal rail line. What we are saying is that we could not have removed what was not contained in the budget proposal. “We want to place on record that the National Assembly has not removed anything. But we want to advise that if we pass the budget and the president has observations about it, he has right to return it for us to look at it again. To say that we are trying to frustrate the government is not true. How can we amend what has not been passed into law?” The spokesman, however, noted that the House was yet to receive any official communication from the president that he was not comfortable with the budget as passed by the National Assembly. According to him, it was

Amaechi that brought the Lagos-Calabar proposal to the parliament, insisting that the process itself was wrong because "only the president has the power to submit appropriation bill before the parliament." Also, chairman of the House Committee on Public Petitions, Uzoma Nkem-Abonta (Abia PDP), advised the president to sign the budget and send a supplementary to the National Assembly for consideration. “The minister has said he brought it (CalabarLagos rail project) during the budget defence, meaning it was not part of the estimates submitted. If we had included it, would it not amount to padding?” he added. Abonta, who spoke in Abuja, queried why the National Assembly is being fingered in the controversy of the removal of the rail project. “They said we removed it, the minister said he brought it. So, are there two budgets?” Abonta said and added that the President’s first outing on budget has shown that he cannot rely on civil servants.

to have earmarked N60 billion counterpart funds for it, but the National Assembly removed it completely from the budget details. But, the Senate regretted that the National Assembly had suffered series of blackmail since the inception of the 2016 budget process through distortion of facts by the Presidency, to poison the minds of Nigerians against the legislative institution. It also accused the Presidency of lack of coordination and gross incompetence in the preparation of the 2016 budget, saying that the National Assembly refused to play to the gallery, but made so much sacrifice to cover the presidency’s embarrassment. His words: "Since the beginning of the 2016 budget process, it is clear that the National Assembly has suffered all manners of falsehood, deliberate distortion of facts, and outright blackmail, deliberately aimed at poisoning the minds of the people against the institution of the National Assembly. "We have endured this with equanimity in the overall interest of Nigerians. Even when the original submission was surreptitiously swapped and we ended up having two versions of the budget, which was almost incomprehensible and heavily padded in a manner that betrays lack of coordination and gross incompetence, we refused to play to the gallery and, instead, helped the executive to manage the hugely embarrassing situation it has brought upon itself; but enough is enough. The Senate refuted the claims credited to the Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, that the National Assembly removed the Lagos-Calabar rail project from the budget, stating that the project was never captured in the draft proposal. The lawmakers urged Amaechi to publicly apologise to the National Assembly for misinforming Nigerians on the Lagos-Calabar rail project or resign his appointment. The Senate stated that: "We make bold to say, however, that the said LagosCalabar rail project was not included in the budget proposal presented to the National Assembly by President Muhammadu Buhari and we challenge anyone who has any evidence to the contrary to present such to Nigerians. "This latest antics of this particular Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, is reckless, uncalled for and dangerously divisive. Apart from setting the people of the southern part of the country against

their northern compatriots, it potentially sets the people against their lawmakers from the concerned constituencies and sets the lawmakers against themselves. "This manner of reprehensible mischief has no place in a democracy. We hereby demand from Mr. Amaechi a publicly tendered apology if he is not able to show evidence that the Lagos-Calabar road project was included in the budget. Otherwise, he should resign forthwith." The Senate urged the president to start implementing the budget from the areas it was in agreement with the National Assembly without further delay, while the two arms work towards resolving the contentious areas of the money bill. He said that the more the president delayed the implementation of the budget, the more people suffering got aggravated. The parliament warned that the lawmakers, as primary representatives of the people, would not watch the electorate continue to suffer. "Finally, by the provision of Section 81 (4) (a) and (b) of the constitution, the president is allowed to sign the budget and kickstart the implementation of the other areas that constitute over 90 per cent of the budget where there is agreement between both arms, even as we engage ourselves to resolve the contentious areas, if there were any. "We, therefore, maintain that even this contrived discrepancies are not sufficient excuse not to sign the budget into law. "We, therefore, urge President Buhari to sign the 2016 budget without any further delay. For every additional day that the president withholds his assent from the bill, the hardship in the land, which is already becoming intolerable for the masses of our people, gets even more complicated. Certainly, as primary representatives of the people, we shall not vacate our responsibility and watch the people continue to suffer unduly." Meanwhile, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National AsCONTINUED ON PAGE 4

N396.2bn

The annual target collection of taxes of Nigeria in 2002. Source: Firs.gov.ng

The total number of open play goals scored by USA at Brazil 2014 World Cup. Source: Fifa.com

TUESday, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

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TUESday, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Shiite/Army clash: Kaduna govt buried 347 corpses in mass grave

he Kaduna State Government yesterday revealed that 347 persons were killed during the December 12 Shiite/Nigerian Army clash in Zaria. The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Balarabe Lawal, disclosed this in a government submission at the ongoing Public Hearing of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the clash. Lawal, who led a six-man government witnesses before the panel, said that 191 corpses were taken from the Nigerian Army Depot, Zaria, and were buried in Mando area in Kaduna. He said 156 corpses were also conveyed from Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, to the same Mando area. The SSG said the corpses included that of youth members of the Islam Movement of Nigeria (IMN) who allegedly attempted to attack the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, on December 12, 2015, in Zaria. The state government said the corpses were committed into a single grave

(mass burial) at the Mando area jointly supervised by the state government officials and about 40 men of the Nigerian Army, led by an officer in the rank of a Major. The SSG said 189 suspects were being prosecuted for alleged involvement in the Zaria crises while one suspect had died in custody. He said the state government had received several security reports from the Department of State Services (DSS) on the activities of the movement. According to him, several measures had been taken to address the situation before it finally escalated into the clash with the Nigerian Army. Balarabe also said the state government demolished the Gyelasu residence of El-Zakzaky, Hussainiyya centre, Dembo centre, Jushi and the houses of Alhaji Aminu Idris and Alhaji Tijjani Mohammed for safety reasons. According to him, the report from a team of engineers which carried out inspection on the buildings, said the buildings are failed structures.

Another witness and Director-General, Kaduna State Interfaith Agency, Mr. Namadi Musa, said the mass burial was conducted on December 14 and 15, respectively, and it took the officials about six hours to complete the burial. He said the burial was carried out 12 midnight and lasted up to 5a.m. Musa said while six tonnes of Mercedes tippers conveyed the 191 corpses from the ABUTH; the Army used three heavy-duty trucks to convey corpses from the Zaria Army Depot. "We left Nigerian Army Depot with three heavy duty trucks and 60 young officers who escorted them to assist in offloading the corpses. From ABUTH, Zaria, five small trucks carried the 196 corpses. Most corpses were covered with black materials and they included women and children. “The mass burial was authorised through a warrant of burial obtained from a Kaduna Chief Magistrates’ Court in Kaduna,” he said. The state government blamed some of the lapses

and the excesses of the movement on the inability of the previous government, which did not take serious action to curtail the activities of the sect. On alleged demolition of buildings and structures of the IMN leader, the witnesses said that the demolitions were based on recommendation of a committee set up by the state government. The witnesses, including officials of KASUPDA, KAPWA and the state Ministry of Works, Transport and Housing, told the panel

Tony Chukwunyem

he World Bank yesterday announced the lowering of its 2016 growth forecast for Nigeria and other countries in sub-Saharan Africa, to 3.3 per cent from 4.4 per cent in October 2015, citing plunging global commodity prices. Just last week, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had also revised

he ECOWAS court, yesterday, held that it has jurisdiction to entertain the case of unlawful detention and seizure of property without order brought against the Federal Government by a former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd). Ruling on Dasuki's application, Justice Friday Nwoke, dismissed the Federal Government's objection to the hearing of the case on the ground that the objection was misconceived and unmeritorious. The ECOWAS Court held that what Dasuki

Nigeria’s growth forecast downwards to 2.3 per cent from 2.7 per cent growth last year. The IMF attributed the slide to the negative impact of lower oil prices, which is compounded by disruptions to private sector activity through exchange rate restrictions. According to the Fund, growth in sub-Saharan Africa is expected to remain weak this year at 3.0 per cent, about 0.5 percentage point lower than in 2015, and 1.3 percentage points lower than forecast in its October 2015 World Economic Outlook (WEO). The World Bank said that the commodity price rout, particularly for oil, which fell 67 per cent from June 2014 to December 2015, and a weak global growth were behind the

region's lackluster performance. "Overall, growth is projected to pick up in 20172018 to 4.5 per cent," it said in a statement. It stated that a projected rise in economic activity next year would be driven by economic powerhouses of South Africa, Nigeria and Angola, as commodity prices stabilised. Nigeria and Angola are the continent's top two crude oil exporters whose economies have suffered as a result of sharply lower crude prices. "There were some bright spots where growth continued to be robust such as in Cote d'Ivoire, which saw a favourable policy environment and rising investment, as well as oil importers such as Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania," it said.

Budget controversy: Senate tackles Buhari CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

ECOWAS court assumes jurisdiction to hear Dasuki's suit ABUJA

rate testimony, said he is happy with the actions taken by the Nigerian Army during the clash. He said that the Nigeria Army would have lost integrity if it had turned back when the shiites barricaded the road stopping the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff, Buratai, from passing. The Justice Muhammed Lawal-Garba panel also took submissions from the Izala Islamic group and Gyellesu Community in Zaria.

World Bank cuts Nigeria, others’ 2016 growth forecasts

Headquarters of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) under police protection over leadership crisis in Abuja … yesterday

Tunde Oyesina

that several other structures belonging to individuals had been demolished for poor building specifications and standards. General Manager, KASUPDA, Mrs Saratu Haruna; DG, Interfaith Agency, Mr Namadi Musa; and Deputy CMD ABUTH, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, appeared before the panel. Meanwhile, elder brother of Sheik Ibraheem ElZakzaky, the leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, Muhammad Sani Yaqoob, who gave a sepa-

brought before it was for the enforcement of his fundamental rights against unlawful arrest, unlawful detention and unlawful seizures of properties in line with provisions of African Charter on Persons Rights. The court disagreed with Federal Government that Dasuki ought to have filed contempt against the central government for not honouring the bail conditions granted the former NSA by three different courts. Justice Nwoke, in the unanimously ruling, said the Federal Government was wrong in the claim that Dasuki should have opted for contempt charge against Nigeria because what he brought was clear and unambiguous as his

case bothers on alleged infringement of his fundamental rights occasioned by his arrest and the detention since December last year after three different Nigerian high courts had admitted him to bail. "It must be stated clearly here that what the applicant is seeking before this court is the enforcement of his fundamental rights to freedom of movement and not enforcement of the bail granted him by and court. "And from his application, it is clear that the root of the case of the applicant is not from his trial for any offence in the domestic court of the Nigerian government. "Therefore, the objection of government and the request to strike out

this suit on the ground that it emanates from any criminal trial has no basis, the request and claim lacks merit and thereby assume jurisdiction and declared that the application of Dasuki is admissible to this court," the court held. The court later adjourned till May 17 and 18 for definite hearing.

2.32m

The total population of women in Central African Republic in 2012. Source: Un.org

12,000

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

sembly Matters (Senate), Senator Ita Enang, yesterday refuted the insinuations in the media that the president has rejected the 2016 budget as passed by the National Assembly. Enang told journalists in Abuja that media reports alleging that the budget had been rejected were false and misleading. He said what Buhari did before travelling to China was to send the budget to ministries in order to get feedbacks that would inform his assent. “The president received the budget and convened an emergency Federal Executive Council meeting. “He gave each of the ministers, departments and agencies the opportunity to look at the details as submitted by the National Assembly. “This is to enable him get opinion on the state of the budget to enable him take a decision. The exercise was conducted on

Friday and it is ongoing by the different ministers and ministries,” he explained. Enang said Buhari had not exceeded the constitutional time frame to assent to the budget, adding that it should not be assumed that the budget had been rejected. “The constitutional time frame for Mr. President’s receiving and considering the budget began last week Friday. The question has not arisen as to returning or otherwise. “But I want to say the best way we as liaison officers are handling this matter is to speak less and work more, creating interactions. So, we will raise more interactions, consultations, and engagements. “There is nothing for the country to worry about, because we do not want to have crisis between the Executive and the Legislature, and it would not arise; this is one government,” he said.

NEWS

TUESday, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

AGF to prosecute Aluko, ex-ministers, PDP chieftains over polls Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

ndications emerged over the weekend that the Federal Government, through the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), will soon begin the prosecution of those fingered in the alleged rigging of the 2014 Ekiti and Osun governorship elections. This followed a report by the Nigerian Army forwarded to the office of the AGF after its investigation. The report, according to the source, found some of the officers of the Nigerian Army culpable. In addition, the report indicted some civilians. The military authorities had sanctioned the indicted officers. Just last week, some of the senior officers indicted in the election malpractices were retired. Those civilians listed for prosecution, according to an impeccable source, are a former Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Dr. Tope Aluko, some former ministers in the Goodluck Jonathan-led administration and a member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the PDP. Other indicted civilians awaiting prosecution are prominent members of PDP in Ekiti State and six members of the Ekiti State

House of Assembly. A former senator in one of the two states is also indicted. The source added that the prosecution may commence this month. New Telegraph recalls that the Nigerian Army had, in October 2015, set up a high-powered Board of Inquiry (BOI) to investigate serious malpractices involving its personnel and to review the involvement of its formations/ units and their officials in elections and other duties. In addition, the Department of State Services (DSS) also set up a panel of inquiry to look into the alleged rigging of the Ekiti governorship poll, those involved and the level of complicity. The Nigerian Police also carried out its investigation. The military BoI investigated the alleged unprofessional and unethical conduct of some Nigerian Army personnel in Ekiti and Osun States’ Gubernatorial Elections in 2014, as well as in any other state in Nigeria where other allegations of misconduct were made during the 2015 general elections in the country. Already, the military has sanctioned all its officers involved and, at the same time, forwarded its reports to the office of the AGF. New Telegraph, however, scooped that arrangements have been con-

N630bn annual food import bill not sustainable –Emefiele CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Emefiele, who was represented by the CBN Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, Adebayo Adekola Adelabu, said agriculture and agro-based industries remained the most fundamental to the diversification effort. He noted that credit disbursement to agriculture had been low from 1.67 per cent in 2010 to 3.72 per cent in 2014 even as the budgetary allocation to the sector witnessed a steady decline from 3.59 per cent in 2010 to 1.77 per cent and 1.47 per cent in 2013 and 2014 respectively. "The establishment of the Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS) in 2009 accounted significantly for the increase in Deposit Money Banks’ (DMBs) lending to the agricultural sector in 2014. The CBN also took proactive measures to diversify the economy by selecting six focal agricultural commodities namely, rice, wheat, cotton, sugar, fish and oil palm for intensive support under its agricul-

tural interventions. “The bank has also followed up by complementing Federal Government's move to curb food importation with a policy directive in June 2015 by excluding 41 items (including some agricultural-based commodities) as ''Not Valid For Forex'' to help conserve foreign reserves among others," the governor said. In his remarks, the Union Bank CEO, Emeka Emuwa, said the conference theme, ''Catalysing the Diversification of Nigerian Economy through Efficient Agriculture Finance,'' was apt. ''Today, Nigeria finds herself with a 43 per cent decrease in oil revenue from N486 billion in January 2015 to N370 billion in January 2016, which has resulted to shortage in foreign currency and reflected in declining reserves from $32.4 billion in January 2015 to $27 billion as at March 2015. The only option left for the country is diversification of the economy to agriculture,” he said.

cluded to prosecute those indicted by the reports. Aluko had testified before the military panel where he revealed how money was released by the then PDP-led Federal Government to the Ekiti State chapter of the PDP and Governor Ayodele Fayose for the alleged rigging of the elections. Though Aluko is said to be the star witness in the suit, but according to the source, that will not stop him from being prosecuted for being at the centre of the electoral malpractice. An online medium had, in 2015, reported how some leaders of the PDP, in collusion with some army officers led by Brig.Gen. Aliyu Momoh, the then commander of the 32nd Artillery Brigade stationed in Ekiti State, rigged the gubernatorial elections in Ekiti State in 2014.

The report included documents and audio recordings prepared and provided by Sagir Koli, a Captain in the 32nd Artillery Brigade stationed in Ekiti State who accompanied Momoh to a key PDP planning meeting in Ado-Ekiti on June 20, 2014 ahead of the Ekiti election. Captain Koli later fled the country for fear of his life, but his teenage secondary school brother was arrested and tortured by army officials. Koli had been absorbed into the military. The Minister of Defence, Brig-Gen. Mansur Dan Ali (rtd), had at the just-concluded Nuclear Security Summit, revealed that Momoh’s career in the military had been terminated after the report of a military panel that investigated the unprofessional conduct of officers and soldiers during the elections

$60.8bn

The net worth of Warren Buffet in 2015. Source: Forbes.com

136.64m

The total number of active lines of Nigeria in November 2014. Source: Ncc.gov.ng

in Ekiti and Osun states indicted him alongside other soldiers. The board of inquiry, chaired by Adeniyi Oyebade, a Major General, made “far-reaching recommendations” meant to assist the army in future involvement in civil elections. In arriving at the recommendations, the board spoke to 62 officers, over 100 soldiers and 62 civilians. According to the state-

ment, the board recommended the compulsory retirement of two officers from the army. It also recommended that three officers should lose their commands and another recommended for prosecution for collecting financial gratification. The board further recommended the placing of 15 officers on watch list while nine others were to be handed over to the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) for further investigations following allegations of corruption against them. Six officers are to face an audit committee and 62 officers (mostly of the rank of Majors below) were to be given letters of displeasure and to appear before their respective General Officers Commanding for counselling, the board also advised.

L-R: Managing Director, Keystone Bank, Mr. Philip Ikeazor; Managing Director, Union Bank Plc., Mr. Emeka Emuwa and Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Adebayo Adekola-Adelabu, during the opening of the Nigerian AgriFinance Conference in Abuja… yesterday

Nigerians suffering under Buhari – ASUU Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

he Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) yesterday lamented the state of the nation, which it said had created a lot of suffering for the citizenry. President of the union, Dr. Nasir Fagge, said Nigerians are disappointed with the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. He noted that the disappointment stems from the fact that they have a government whose leadership promised change, but which is not practising transformation. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja to examine the state of the nation, the ASUU President lamented that the nation is in a serious socio-economic crisis, which has caused Nigerians untold suffering. His words: "There's no doubt that Nigerians are suffering. There exists a socio-economic crisis in Nigeria. We are all aware

of the manifestations of the crisis, which our country faces. “There are many symptoms of the crisis: rising level of poverty; increasing rate of unemployment, heightened expectation leading to heightened frustration among Nigerians due to the failure to realise an improved living standard. “Food prices are higher and access to health facilities has not improved; life and property remain insecure. In short, Nigerian people are still suffering." The umbrella body of university lecturers, however, said that there must be a reconstruction of Nigeria into a socialist welfare state. "There's urgent need to return to ideological and theoretical classes in colleges and universities, for our youths, by academics, as was the practice in the 1980s. “In more general terms, it is imperative that all forces committed to the reconstruction of Nigeria led by the labour movement

forces, begin immediately to embark upon popular political education. The reconstruction of Nigeria into a socialist welfare state is the true alternative to enslavement to global liberalism," he said. Fagge stressed that Nigeria needs an alternative political framework that mainstream the articulation of explicit ideologies, noting that the two major parties that contested the 2016 general elections embraced the neo-liberal ideology of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank. The ASUU president lamented that the current fuel crisis has had adverse consequences on the socio-economic life of the nation, adding that it has increased the cost of food, transportation, electric power, as well as general cost of living. Fagge stated that the crisis has generated social tension in the land, even as he castigated government for being slow in implementing the policies it pronounced in 2015, which

include getting the refineries working, ending crude oil and refined products swap arrangement and making unambiguous pronouncement on petroleum subsidy. He said government should implement those polices in the oil and gas sector, warning that on no account should it result in any increase in the prices of petroleum products because "Nigerians have suffered enough”. "And if increment of the prices of petroleum products is forced upon the people, our union will join Nigerian workers to resist until the increase is reversed," he warned. Speaking on the power crisis in the country, the ASUU president condemned what he described as fraudulent privatisation of electricity by the ruling class. "We shall continue to work with the labour movement and other progressive forces in the country to protest the sharp practices going on in the power sector," he said.

NEWS | national

tuesday, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Jonathan hired Metuh for election publicity –Witness Tunde Oyesina Abuja

defence witness in the ongoing prosecution of the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, Olisa Metuh, yesterday told the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja how the Presidency commissioned Metuh to organise publicity for the 2015 presidential elections. Metuh had yesterday opened his defence in the ongoing trial by calling his first witness. The witness, Ike Abonyi, who was media adviser to the former Na-

tional Chairman of PDP, Okwesilieze Nwodo, told the court that his principal (Nwodo) hired a consulting firm called CMCConnect to work on the image of the party. He added that since Metuh was part of Nwodo’s team, he also came in contact with CMCConnect. According to him, "Mr Yomi Badejo came with his team who met with Metuh and some officials of the publicity directorate. Metuh agreed with the consulting firm that he would want them to return to continue from where they stopped when Dr Nwodo was there. “The consulting firm

said that they were willing to return, but the party was owing them. Metuh promised to make a case for them. Following their presentation at that meeting, Metuh told them that there were no resources to pay them, and promised to get back to them if he got resources from the party. “Virtually, once the general election of 2015 was near, Metuh approached me when I was

357,612

The total number of active fixed wired or wireless lines of Nigeria in February 2014. Source: Ncc.gov.ng

the Deputy Managing Director of New Telegraph newspaper, and requested that he would need my services at the time. And that he would like if I could come into the party as a consultant to help him on a new challenge of improving the image of the party, which was in bad shape. “All eyes were on him to come up with strategies to shore up the image of the party ahead of the forthcoming general election. That was the point I left New Telegraph to join him for the purpose of that challenge he mentioned. When I joined him he wanted us to call back CMC-Connect. He said

Temitope Ogunbanke

Mimiko raises the alarm over herdsmen's attacks on farmlands Akure

overnor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State yesterday expressed fear that the incessant attacks of Fulani herdsmen on farmlands in the state and other parts of the country may lead to ethnic clashes if not checked by the Federal government. Mimiko, who said the country was sitting on a keg of gunpowder as a result of the attack of Fulani herdsmen on farmlands in various parts of the country, kicked against the introduction of a bill to create grazing reserves in different parts of the country as part of the panacea to the problem. Speaking at his office during a meeting with members of Oodua People's Congress (OPC) who came on the invitation of the governor following the killing of a member of the group in Chief Olu Falae's farm last week, Mimiko expressed the fear that the country may erupt into ethnic crisis in due course if the attacks were not checked. According to him, the attacks on farmlands by

posed. "After our presentation, the president said jokingly that we were too hard on him, because we made it clear to him that his image was in a bad shape. “At a point, Reuben Abati, who saw our presentation as an indictment campaign, told the president that the situation was not as bad as we tried to portray. But the president overruled it. “After the presentation, the president asked for comments from those sitting with him, and most of the speakers made positive remarks by what they saw", Abonyi stated.

Nigerians regretting voting for Buhari, says Bucknor-Akerele

A pedestrian being apprehended for crossing the expressway at Ketu, Ikorodu Road, Lagos by men of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS)…yesterday

Babatope Okeowo

the leader of the party, the then president, would have no choice but to fund the project. “Chief Metuh told us that he had been given an assignment by the president to come up with strategies that would help win the general election. He told us the assignment was given to other professionals, that we should see it as a challenge and make sure that our strategy prevailed". Abonyi further told the court that the team was invited to the villa by the President where the MD of CMC-Connect did the presentation, and demonstrated most of the strategies they pro-

Fulani herdsmen was becoming a monster that may be difficult to tame in the nearest future as people may be forced to take the laws into their hands. His words:"There is no question about the fact that this is becoming a monster of sort. I have had cause to express my view on this and I think we all ignore this menace as a nation, I can see us moving towards a precipice and we must do something about it. It is getting dangerous. The audacity is very disturbing. "Apart from the fact that this is a challenge to food security, I can tell you that there is hardly any full scale farmers or business farmers in Ondo State that had not had form of encounter with these herdsmen. "When it comes to killing now, killing people over their own property, or land? It is a very big challenge, for me, I think the way out is for the Federal Government to collaborate with some states government in the North to set up big ranches with dams and other facilities, even schools for these herdsmen. If we don't do this, it will get to a stage that people will take laws into their hands."

Mimiko said the introduction of Fulani Grazing Reserve would rather aggravate the menace instead of curbing it, as the bill, if passed into law, would conflict with the constitution of the country. His words: "I see the grazing reserves aggravating the problem, though I've not read the law but I don't see how that law can find comfort with the land use act there. The control of land is vested in the governor of the state, I cannot see any federal law that will compulsorily acquire any land from

any state government, in my state for example, it cannot work. "The owners of these cattles, according to the information in my disposal, are well to do people. They are elites and if cattle rearing is commercial venture, why should they not contribute in collaboration with state government or Private Public Patnership or whatsoever to set up ranches, so that if you want to graze on such ranches, you pay a fee. After all, they don't sell these cattle for free. It is a commercial issue; they should step up these ranches.

NIMASA seeks early passage of anti-piracy law Bayo Akomolafe

he Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has said that it would work with other stakeholders to actualise the passage of the AntiPiracy and Other related Crimes at Sea Bill into law. The Director General of the agency, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, who dropped the hint at a 4-day work-

shop organised by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in collaboration with the United States Government in Lagos, explained that the bill was necessary to provide the requisite framework for the fight, prosecution and punishment of piracy and related maritime crimes in Nigeria. In a release by the agency’s Deputy Director, Public Relations,

ormer deputy governor of Lagos State and a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele, has taken a swipe at the Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) for not delivering the change they promised Nigerians. Speaking to New Telegraph in an exclusive interview in Lagos, Senator Bucknor-Akerele, said Nigerians were regretting voting for President Muhammadu Buhari and APC during the 2015 general elections because the change the ruling party promised them has been for the worse and not for the better. Her words: “I think the present situation is a disaster and I know many

people are regretting what has happened. I think in some instances, we were rigged out. The PDP could have won some states but we were rigged out and I think people were turned into believing that there were going to be some kind of a change." And of course, the change has been for the worse and not for the better. “Nigerians is presently regretting voting for Buhari and APC. You can go to the streets and see what people are saying. People are saying this is not the kind of change they voted for. “I believe that if the PDP is voted into power in 2019, they will definitely change the country for better. People will see a new PDP and see changes. They will see a more dynamic country if the PDP get back into power.”

Cynthia Osokogu's case stalled Akeem Nafiu

urther hearing in the trial of four persons who were arraigned over alleged complicity in the murder of Cynthia Osukogu, a postgraduate student of Nassarawa State University, was stalled yesterday owing to the failure of the defendants to file their written addresses. Justice Olabisi Akinlade of an Igbosere High Court had to further adjourn the matter following a request by the defendants' lawyers. The trial has suffered series of setbacks in the past due to the foot dragging of the defendants in filing their written address since last year. The four defendants: Okwumo Nwabufor, Olisaeloka Ezike, Orji Osita and Nonso Ejike, are standing trial on a two-

count charge of conspiracy and murder. They were accused by the Lagos State government of killing Cynthia, a friend they claimed they met on the social media platform, Facebook, on July, 22, 2012 at Cosmilla Hotel, Lake View Estate, Festac Town, Lagos. At yesterday's proceedings, only the first and second defendants had legal representations. The trial judge expressed her displeasure over the delay approach being adopted by the defendants. The judge had earlier threatened to send the fourth defendant, Nonso Ezike, back to prison for deliberately stalling the case. The matter was adjourned to June 8 for the adoption of parties written address.

national | news

tuesday, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

894,452

Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, with Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, Tunde Fowler, during a visit to the Emir in Kano

The total number of interactions on Instagram of Cristiano Ronaldo in February 2016. Source: Goal.com

UNIPORT students block EastWest road over school fee hike Emmanuel Masha Port Harcourt

500,000 Nigerians contact cancer annually â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Senate

Chukwu David Abuja

hairman, Senate Committee on Health, Dr. Lanre Tejuoso, yesterday, disclosed that between 100,000 and 500,000 Nigerians contact cancer annually. Consequently, stakeholders at a one-day public hearing on a Bill for an Act to Establish National Centre for Cancer Research and Treatment, expressed serious concerns over this terrifying spread of the disease in Nigeria. Tejuoso, recalled that

World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that cancer was a major cause of global deaths with 7 million being recorded every year and 72 per cent of such deaths occurring in middle income countries such as Nigeria. He put the rate of deaths caused by cancer across the globe at 13 per cent. He said that the Cancer Research Centre would foster scientific improvement to cancer prevention, treatment and care and as well co-ordinate and liaise between the wide range of groups and health care providers with an interest in cancer.

He listed other objectives of the centre to include making recommendations to the government about cancer policy and priorities; overseeing dedicated budget for research centre; assisting with the implementation of government policies and programmes in cancer control and providing financial assistance out of the money appropriated by the National Assembly for research and treatment. The lawmaker further painted a horrific picture of the ailment when he disclosed that one out of every eight women ex-

Observer group faults INEC on FCT election Tunde Oyesina Abuja

Coalition of Accredited Observer Groups, yesterday blamed the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC over the Saturday inconclusiveness of the FCT area council elections. The group, however, described as unhealthy, the

inconclusiveness of the elections. The group also said the election was marred by importation of illegal voters from neighbouring states to the FCT. The group, in a statement issued by the coalition secretary, Malam Sadiq Mallama, said some unauthorised voters were imported from Nasarawa, and Suleja, Niger State for

the purpose of the election. According to the observers, "the continuous declaration of election inconclusive in the country since after the 2015 general election is unhealthy and discouraging to our growing democracy. "There was also an illegal importation of voters from Nasarawa State to Karshi ward for the election."

Cross River sets aside N1.7bn for FBC

he Cross River Government has budgeted the sum of N1.7 Billion for the establishment of a food bank commission in the state. This was disclosed by the state governor, Professor Ben Ayade, while receiving a delegation from Heritage Bank led by its Coordinator of the Home Grown School

Feeding Programme, Mr. Godwin Ukwat on a courtesy visit in his office in Calabar yesterday. Ayade said that the Food Bank Commission was structured in a manner that each Local Government will have a Director. He expressed the willingness of the state government to key into

GOtv airs new series on Zee World

uisine shows from India and other parts of the world have been earmarked to air on GOtv this month. The programmes include The Great Indian Kitchen, Healthy But Tasty and Course with Pankaj on ZeeWorld Channel 25, while Funny Cooking with Spongebob will show on Nickelodeon, Channel 62.

Also, a new series, East Meets West will premiere Monday 28 April on Zee World. East Meets West is a story based on the lives of two grandsons of a Punjabi family (The Singhs) from Delhi, who got married to girls that are culturally and geographi-

the Home Grown School Feeding Programme on the condition that it is given the free hand to run it. The governor decried the fact that the practice of agriculture in the country was still at the subsistence level, stating that it was time the country embraced the use of technology in farming.

cally poles apart. One hails from a small town in Punjab, while the other is a foreigner, who has been brought up overseas. The story takes many turns - romantic, emotional, dramatic and purely funny when the two girls start living under the same roof.

pects to be diagnosed of breast or cervical cancer in their life time, adding that two of every 10 men expect to be diagnosed for prostrate, lungs and colorectal cancer. He added: "It is also well known that the various forms of cancer disease have been more felt in Africa and Nigeria in particular, where resources and awareness are not readily available for prevention, diagnoses and treatment. This bill seeks to provide for establishment of the National Centre for Cancer Research and Treatment to research into cancer and to provide treatment to patients in Nigeria."

undreds of students of the University of Port Harcourt went on rampage yesterday over what they termed the "arbitrary and indiscriminate" hike in school fees by the school's management. The students, who converged from the two main campuses of the university, accused the management of insensitivity to the country's current economic realities by hiking school fees, and barring those that had not paid from participating in the semesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s examination, which was supposed to commence yesterday. Before the protest, findings revealed that over 60 per cent of the student population had not paid the school fees, which were jacked up from N48, 000 to N58, 000, and N75, 000 to N150, 000. The students complained that out of the federal universities across the country, UNIPORT was charging the

highest fees, noting that management refused to listen to superior argument over the increase, which was announced last November. According to them, the management, which announced the increment and deadline, did not carry them along before arriving at both decisions. A 300 level student, who was part of the protest, said that UNIPORT was the only federal university where students pay for hostel accommodation, noting that some hostels charge the same amount with those off campus. "It is hell to be a student of UNIPORT. You pay for everything, and now we are being prevented from writing our exam because of hike in school fees. The Federal Government should come to our aid before the management succeeds in frustrating students," he said. The p ro t e s t e r s blocked the entrance and exit into the institution, as well as the East-West Road, stopping the flow of traffic on the road.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

METRO

ABIODUN BELLO

...CRIME, CITY WATCH, COURTS

Kidnappers kill pastor for preaching repentance Taiwo Jimoh

olice in Rivers State have arrested four suspected kidnappers, who allegedly killed a pastor, Chuckwu Ekere, for preaching to them to repent. They also raped and strangled a female victim. According to the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ahmad Muhammad, the kidnappers confessed to have kidnapped and murdered Ekere for asking them to repent. They also allegedly killed Mrs. Igila Sunday from the same village with Ekere. Muhammad, in a statement yesterday, identified the suspects as Henry Ajie (23), Bright Ajie (22), Dadison Ogadima (22) and Sampson

The suspected pastor’s killers

I’m authentic head of Akinlowo-Olaife family –Tijani G eneral Abdul Salam Tijani (rtd) has denounced an advertorial disclaiming him as the head of the Akinlowo-Olaife family of Lagos. His counsel, Olayinka Sanni & Co, said in a statement that the “disclaimer” was sponsored by some “disgruntled” members of the family. According to the law firm,

Tijani remains a bona fide member of the family and the authentic head of the Akinlowo-Olaife family. The lawyers described the disclaimer as a paid job calculated at smearing the good image of Tijani which was built over the years while in active service. According to the statement, in a family, there is bound to

be issues and if they are not quickly resolved they may factionalise the family with each of the factions holding divergent views. The statement reads in part: “However, it is wrong for the print media to project the views of a faction without interviewing the other side before publishing same. This, to us, is

highly unethical, fraudulent, unacceptable and condemnable.” It also described the issue at stake as family affairs. “The minute disgruntled members of Akinlowo-Olaife family cannot constitute the majority.” All the principal members are solidly behind our client as the accredited head of the family,” the lawyers added.

City Briefs

NAF offers free medical tests, drugs Flora Onwudiwe

igerian Air Force (NAF) has embarked on a free medical outreach in its immediate host communities in commemoration of NAF 52nd anniversary held across the country yesterday. At the NAF Base Ikeja, residents of Ewu kingdom benefited from the free eye, dental, high blood pressure, HIV/AIDS, sugar level, drugs and various other tests held at the Methodist Primary School, Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos. The Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Logistics command Ikeja, Air Vice-Marshal (AVM) Muhammadu Muhammed, said the week-long NAF Reunion 2016 celebration which kicked off in all NAF units on

April 8 with a Jumat service followed by inter-denominational church service and the medical outreach. The AOC, who spoke through the Commander Medical Officer, Air Commodore Muhammed Shaibu, said “all NAF units are currently embarking on medical outreach and programmes which have direct impact on our immediate host communities; just like we are doing today to strengthen our relationship with our host communities. “There are a number of activities going on at the moment and the anniversary gives an opportunity to reflect on the roles of the NAF, what have been able to accomplished, developing strategies and other services to the nation.”

According to Shaibu, NAF has big hospitals at the Base and Shasha where the residents are given access to medical facilities. He added that over the years, NAF had conducted several medical outreach programmes in the North-East which had impacted significantly on the people. The traditional ruler of Ewu, Oba Shakirudeen Adeshina Kuti, expressed gratitude to NAF. He said: “This is the first time in my 14 years on the throne that we are experiencing free medical care. I have told them that they should not wait until they are celebrating their anniversary. It should be a continuous exercise and not once in a year.”

abiodun.bello@newtelegraphonline.com 08023938212

Dibia (30). He said: “The suspects were arrested on Sunday around 2a.m. at Ohinga community, Port Harcourt. The kidnappers confessed to the police that the pastor was disturbing them with his preaching. They said he also asked them to shun their kidnapping activities and accept God.” Muhammad explained that after the suspects kidnapped the woman, they raped and strangled her. They later buried her in a shallow grave in another community called Ogbosi “The suspects would soon be charged to court,” the PPRO added. Meanwhile, Muhammad also said the police arrested five suspected criminals and recovered dangerous weapons. The arrest, according to him, came after a ‘string operation’ carried out by a team of policemen at Pipeline area, Ubima in Ikwerre Local Government on April 9. The PPRO gave the names of the suspects as Okachi Isaiah (33), Benjamin Ohahuru (33), Enyele Eze (45), Orakwu Innocent (28) and Ibuchi Would (32). He also listed exhibits recovered from them to include two AK47 rifles, one pump action gun, one Beretta pistol, 19 rounds of assorted live ammunition, three magazines and eight cartridges. According to him, preliminary investigation indicated the gang was responsible for a series of armed robberies and kidnappings at Ubima and its environs.

Gay defiles 10-year-old boy Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI

ten year old boy in Amasiri, Afikpo North local government area of Ebonyi state, Victor Agha has been allegedly defiled by a 35 year old man, Stephen Ude of Amuzu community, Amasiri. The victim who hails from Amuzu Ezeke in the area was defiled in the farm. Agha followed the suspect to his farm when the incident occurred. A from the boy’s family source said when he returned from the farm in the evening, Agha looked very weak and sick prompting the father to ask what happened to him and he told the father that Stephen Ude had sex with him through the anus.

‘’The father of the boy, Pius Agha Idam immediately rushed him to the hospital and reported the matter to the police’’, the source said. When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer ASP George Okafor confirmed the incident and that the suspect has been arrested. He warned that the command cannot tolerate any homosexual act in the state and advised parents to be mindful of those they allow their children to mingle with. ‘’By the time we conclude with the necessary investigation, get the medical report together as well as other necessary facts, we will send the suspect to court and ensure that the law takes it course’’, he said.

METRO

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Boutique owner murdered in pregnant wife’s presence

Pauline Onyibe Yenagoa

unmen suspected to be armed robbers yesterday killed a 30-yearold man, Mr. Martin Agodo, in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital. Agodo, who hailed from Nsukka in Enugu State, was operating a boutique, O’MARS fashion shop, on Melford Okilo Road opposite OMPADEC, Amarata, Yenagao. He was killed at home in the presence of his pregnant wife. When our correspondent visited the residence of the diseased, neighbours gathered in groups to discuss the issue. A neighbour, who pleaded anonymity, said the incident occurred around 3a.m. He said the armed men broke through the protector and gained entrance into the one bedroom apartment.

Martins shop

The neighbour added that he heard everything which was going on in Agodo’s apartment even the gunshot that killed the man. According to him, the robbers were shouting “where is the big money?” He, however, said he was afraid to come out. The neighbour said tiptoed and saw about three heavily built men going away with a ‘Ghana-mustgo’ bag which he suspected

must be filled with money. After the robbers had gone, the man said he rushed to Agodo’s apartment and found him in a pool of blood while his pregnant wife was watching aimlessly. The neighbour disclosed that he joined Agodo’s wife to wake other neighbours and they rushed the man to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) where he was certified dead. Another neighbour

said he heard Agodo shout “please help me”. According to him, nobody was able to come to his rescue because the gunmen surrounded the whole compound and threatened to shoot anybody who came out. The sales girl at Agodo’s boutique said she did not know that her boss was dead until she got to the shop. Neighbours, who suspected that it was a planned attack, said Agodo was supposed to go to Dubai yesterday so he went home with a lot of money. According to them, somebody must have known that he had money at home. Agodo’s wife was said to have collapsed and hospitalised. The state Commissioner of Police, Peter Ogunyawo, denied insinuations that Igbo had become targets of attacks in Bayelsa State. According to him, crime is committed everywhere.

Lagos pulls down 28 street gates Muritala Ayinla

agos State government yesterday started the demolition of gated streets across the state. This followed the expiration of the ultimatum to all streets to leave their gates open till midnight each day. Worried by the safety risks and the gridlock which the practice generates, government had ordered all streets to leave their gates open between 5a.m. and midnight so that motorists could navigate through them. It was learnt that government has earmarked 62 gated streets for demolition, out of which 28 gates were demolished yesterday in Ajeromi-Ifelodun area of

Lagos. Government officials escorted by men of the Task Force on Environment and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit stormed Ajeromi-Ifelodun yesterday and demolished 28 gated streets which were locked against motorists. The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Affairs, Alhaji Tajudeen Quadri, noted that the removal of the gated streets had to be done after a series of awareness campaign by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs on the need to adhere strictly to the directives. Quadri added that stakeholders’ meetings were held with executive members of

One of the gates

the Community Development Committees (CDCs), Community Development Associations (CDAs) and the executive secretaries of the Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas, LCDAs to ensure that they were all involved in government policies and directives.

Ambode gives N1m to triplets’ mother

Muritala Ayinla

overnor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State yesterday appealed to Mr. Olayinka Michael, who reported fled after his wife gave birth to triplets, to return home. Michael, a bricklayer, allegedly ran away from home when he heard his wife gave birth to triplets after a set of twins at first birth. Ambode’s appeal came barely eight months after he assisted a woman whose husband absconded after giving birth to three set of twins. Speaking while presenting N1 million cash to the mother of triplets, Mrs. Olayinka Aina Michael, the governor said abandoning the woman in the hos-

pital after God’s blessings was not the way to appreciate the woman. Ambode, who demanded to see the absconded husband for counselling, urged him not to run away from the children, who, according to him, have brought him good luck. Speaking through his Special Adviser on Civic Engagement, Hon. Kehinde Joseph, the governor urged the wife to find means of communicating with her husband. Ambode advised the mother of triplets to use the money judiciously by starting a business. He said: “Tell your husband that I want to see him and he needs to liaise with the Special Adviser on Civic Engagement for counselling.”

He said: “There is need to remove all the gated streets and barricades due to noncompliance of the residents to the opening hours of 5a.m. to midnight and to be effectively manned from midnight to 5a.m. by security personnel who must always be on ground to open these gates in case of any emergency.

DPO beats award-winning female traffic warden

Ogun CP, Ali

Kunle Olayeni Abeokuta

Divisional Police Officer in Ogun State, (name withheld), yesterday reportedly threw caution to the winds and beat up a female traffic warden for daring to stop his private vehicle. The DPO, who is in charge of one of the division in the state, allegedly assaulted Inspector Anifat Bello at the NNPC Junction on the Presidential Boulevard, Abeokuta. It was learnt that the DPO was coming into Abeokuta from the Sagamu end of the Siun-Kobape-Sagamu Expressway while the traffic warden was discharging her official duty. Anifat, a multiple award-winning officer, flagged down the senior officer’s vehicle for alleged violation of traffic regulations. The DPO, who was in mufti when he disobeyed traffic, was said to have been miffed by the effrontery of the traffic official. Sources said the DPO drove into a nearby filling station, parked his vehicle and changed into a police uniform. He, thereafter, went to the traffic warden and dealt her several slaps. The incident, which happened about 9a.m., was said to have sur-

prised many bystanders and motorists who queued for fuel nearby. Some people around wondered why the traffic warden, who had been honoured several times for her commitment to duty, could be subjected to such ridiculous treatment. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo had some time recommended Bello for a national honour in recognition of her duty. When contacted yesterday, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the incident. He said the state Commissioner of Police, Abdulmajid Ali, was unhappy when the affected traffic warden came to report the matter. Adejobi, however, assured that the incident would be thoroughly investigated and handled appropriately. He said: “The woman traffic officer has reported the matter to the commissioner of police and he has directed that the matter be thoroughly investigated. The commissioner of police was not happy when the woman came with a swollen face. “If the allegation is true, I’m very sure the commissioner of police will know what to do departmentally.”

Channels correspondent’s abductors demand N15m Steve Uzoechi OWERRI

even armed men yesterday abducted the Imo State correspondent of Channels Television, Tope Kutegi, from his residence. The armed men broke into Kutegi’s residence through a barbwire and electrified fence about 3a.m. They immobilised the security man at the gate leading to the apartments block before proceeding to break the door and window leading to Kutegi’s flat. While the gunmen seized Kutegi at gunpoint,

his neighbour was said to have fled through the back exit. The hoodlums, however, drove Kutegi away in the neighbour’s vehicle. Other neighbours said the hoodlums were heavily armed and left one doublebarrelled pump-action rifle on top of the fence. It was learnt that the kidnappers later demanded N15 million ransom for the release of the journalist. In a statement, Governor Rochas Okorocha condemned Kutegi’s abduction and described it as unfortunate. The governor said in the statement signed by Mr. Sam Onwuemeodo, Kute-

gi’s abduction must have been a case of mistaken identity. He said: “Those holding the reporter should please release him to re-unite with his family. A reporter cannot afford to pay any ransom. To some of us, he must have been a victim of mistaken identity. “To us, those behind the kidnapping know why they decided to inconvenience the reporter and his family. They must have done that to blackmail the state government which has been commended for fighting and reducing cases of kidnapping and criminality in the state to the barest minimum.”

NEWS | national

tuesday, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

NLC: Management of oil industry not transparent

●Seeks reconstitution of boards for PPPRA, DPR Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

s the fuel crisis rocking the country continues, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has said that the management of the downstream sector of the oil industry is far from being transparent. The congress in a communique issued in Abuja yesterday at the end of its Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting, particularly said cases of those

who corruptly abused the subsidy process which came to light following the nationwide protest against price increase and public hearings at the National Assembly in 2012 have not been diligently prosecuted. It also noted the criminal power-play in the downstream sector between the key players and a cabal that places its selfish interest above that of the nation. The labour union also lamented that the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachik-

wu, has become the virtual sole administrator of the industry, noting that the boards of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) still remain not constituted. The NLC also said that other regulatory agencies such as the De-

2.03m

The total population of men of Georgia in 2012. Source: Un.org

partment of Petroleum Resources (DPR), which are expected to function independently, have been sidelined, weakened or brought under the control of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. While calling for the immediate reconstitution of the boards of the PPPRA and NNPC in accordance with the extant laws of the land, the NLC noted in particular that the review of petroleum product’s prices and templates without recourse to the board of the PPPRA is a violation of the PPPRA Act. This was at it called for

L-R: President, Academic Staff Union of Universities (Asuu), Dr. Nasir Isa Faggae; VicePresident, Prof. Abiodun Ogunyemi and former President, Prof. Asisi Asobia, during a news conference on the state of the nation in Abuja … yesterday

a speedy end to the current scarcity, which has unleashed unimaginable

CONFIRMATION/change OF NAME Godsword: I, formerly known and addressed as Paul Kisco now wish to be known and addressed as Paul Kewku Godsword. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Oriyomi

I, formerly known and addressed as Lawal Azeezat Oluwatoyin now wish to be known and addressed as Oriyomi Azeezat Oluwatoyin. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Edikan

I formerly known and addressed as Princess Akon Akpan Enang now wish to be known and addressed as Princess Edikan Akpan Enang. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Abdul Wahab

I, formerly known and addressed as Abdulwahab Istijabat now wish to be known and addressed as Abdul Wahab Tawakalt Ola. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Akpan

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Dorathy Amarachi Uzobuaku now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Dorathy Moses Akpan All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Johnson

I, formerly known and addressed as Odigie Kelly Nosa now wish to be known and addressed as Johnson Kelly Odigie All former documents remain valid. General public note.

OSUYA

Scientists find new genes responsible for stroke, dementia Appolonia Adeyemi

scientific breakthrough in which researchers found a new set of genes that may be responsible for the two commonest and disabling neurological conditions, stroke and dementia, may help scientists better understand, treat and prevent both conditions. The findings were published in the journal Lancet Neurology. According to researchers, the study may help scientists tackle ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke and perhaps Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

Stroke is the leading neurological cause of death and disability worldwide. On its part, dementia is an overall term that describes a wide range of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person's ability to perform everyday activities. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60 to 80 percent of cases. Previous studies have looked mainly at genes causing atherosclerosis and genes affecting the function of platelets and clotting processes as risk factors for ischemic stroke

(clot obstructing blood flow to the brain). Platelets, also called thrombocytes are a component of blood whose function is to stop bleeding by clumping and clotting blood vessel injuries. A different set of genes have been associated with hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding into the brain). Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) looked for new stroke genes using genome wide association as well as meta-analysis. They identified a new gene called FOXF2, which increased the risk of having a stroke due to small vessel disease in the brain.

“Our research has identified a gene affecting another type of ischemic stroke, due to small vessel disease and also suggests that some genes may be associated with both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke and may act through a novel pathway affecting pericytes, a type of cell in the wall of small arteries and capillaries,” said Sudha Seshadri from BUSM. According to the researchers, small vessel disease not only causes stroke, but is also a major contributor to dementia risk and is associated with gait problems and depression.

Fuel station owners allege sabotage in distribution

Army commander rallies media in fight against insurgency

Ibraheem Musa

Ahmed Miringa

Kaduna

he Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, has been advised that saboteurs that are impeding the free supply of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), otherwise known as petrol, are within the fuel distribution system. Addressing a press conference yesterday, the Association of Mega Filling Station Owners of Nigeria

(AMFSON), lamented that their members inability to get fuel after several months of depositing millions of naira for supply. AMFSON National Secretary, Kenneth Nwachukwu, who said that his members had resisted the minister’s urging that they should mention the saboteurs, said that they will name people if pushed to the wall. According to him, the heads of top government officials in the oil sector will roll if they decide to do so.

Maiduguri

he Theater Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole, in the North-East, MajorGeneral Lucky Irabor, has solicited the support of media practitioners to completely flush out the remnant of insurgents within the theater of operation. The theater commander, who made the appeal yesterday when he paid a courtesy call to Borno Correspondent Chapel of the

NUJ at its office in Maiduguri said: “I appreciate the support you are rendering to our operation since the inception of the insurgency and I urge you to continue in this direction. “I really appreciate the support you have been rendering to the theater through your reportage. I am here today to show our appreciation and also urge you to continue to support us until we completely wipe out insurgency in North-East and the country at large,” Irabor said.

hardship on the people with collateral damage to the economy.

I, formerly known and addressed as Princess Emily Ohwovoriole now wish to be known and addressed as Princess Emily OSUYA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Salam

I, formerly known and addressed as Onifade Opeyemi Dorcas now wish to be known and addressed as Salam Opeyemi Dorcas. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Agboke-Victor

I, formerly known and addressed as Agboke Solomon Olanrewaju now wish to be known and addressed as Agboke-Victor Oluwatosin. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Kimibeghi

I, formerly known and addressed as Kemebe Papa now wish to be known and addressed as Kimibeghi Ofiye Kimis. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Maaimaki

I formerly known and addressed as Joshua Maaimaki Nuzaifat Danjuma now wish to be known and addressed as Maaimaki Joshua Nuzaifat. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Nelson

This is to confirm that Nelson Ebong and Udo Udia Ebong refers to one and the same person. That henceforth I wish to be known and addressed as Nelson Ebong. All former documents remain valid. First Bank and the General public please take note.

Iwekumo

This is to confirm that Ikpakpai Iwekumo and Nukiye Iwekumo Rachel refers to one and the same person. That henceforth I wish to be known and addressed as Nukiye Iwekumo. All former documents remain valid. Unity Bank Plc and the General public please take note.

Adeyemi

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Idowu Olubukola Oladayo now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Adeyemi Olubukola Oladayo All former documents remain valid. LAUTECH Teaching Hospital Osogbo and general public note.

Oreoluwa

I, formerly known and addressed as Lawal Kafayat Aderonke Enitan now wish to be known and addressed as Lawal Aderonke Oreoluwa All former documents remain valid. General public note.

Olalekan

I, formerly known and addressed as Arowolo Abimbola Atinuke now wish to be known and addressed as Olalekan Abimbola Atinuke. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

TAIWO

This is to confirm that Musibau Taiwo Akande was mistakenly write as Taiwo Musbau Akande now wish to be known and addressed as Musibau Taiwo Akande. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Kemebradikemor

I, Mr. Ofiyou Arikeyou February Kemebradikemor do hereby state that my name was wrongly spelt as Arikeyo and Kemedramor in some of my documents. Also that the name Arikeyou Kemebradikemor and Ofiyou were erroneously omitted in some of my documents. I now wish to be known and addressed as Mr. Ofiyou Arikeyou February Kemebradikemor. All former documents remain valid. UBA, Unity Bank, Fidelity bank, Keystone bank, Diamond bank, FCMB bank Plc and the general public please take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE

DEBBIE WINDELE SAFETY FOUNDATION

This is to inform the general public that the above named organization has applied for REGISTRATION under PART C of Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990. The Trustees are: 1. Debbie Windele 2. Francis Adeyemi 3. David Omoqui.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To encourage safety awareness in the society. 2. To organize seminars, workshops and campaign for safe environment. 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. ANNOUNCER BANJO OLUSEGUN

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Interview T.A Orji’s tenure remains Abia's darkest years – Igwe

Politics

2019 PDP, APC in early race for Enugu guber seat

13 16

Ogun and politics of new LCDAs Stakeholders in Ogun State are divided over the decision of Governor Ibikunle Amosun to create new Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) amidst dwindling revenue and belt-tightening economic measures in the country. KUNLE OLAYENI reports Amosun

n March 10, Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s letter requesting the creation of 37 new Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Ogun State was read on the floor of the state House of Assembly. The letter, read by the Speaker, Suraj Adekunbi, sought legislative approval to restructure the existing 20 Local Government Areas of the state and carve out the proposed LCDAs. The governor was quoted as saying his request was in furtherance of his administration’s attempt at meeting the yearnings of the people of the state through the delivery of democratic dividends. His submission was that the creation of LCDAs would bring government nearer to the people and engender further development. The proposed LCDAs are Abeokuta North West, Abeokuta North East, Oke-Ogun, Abeokuta South East, Abeokuta South West, AdoOdo, Agbara/Igbesa, Ota West, Sango/Ijoko, Ewekoro North, Ifo Central, Coker Ibogun, Ifo South, Ijebu East Central, Ijebu North, Ijebu North Central and Ijebu-Igbo West. Others include Ago-Iwoye, Yemoji, Ijebu-Ode South, Remo Central, Imeko, Afon, Ipokia West, Idi-Iroko, Oba, Obafemi, Ofada, Mokoliki, Opeji, Ilugun, Leguru, Ifesowapo, Ogun Waterside East, Remo North East, Sagamu-Remo West, Sagamu-Remo South, Iju, Ketu and Yewa South East.

FELIX NWANERI

GROUP PoLITICAL EDITOR nwanerif@newtelegraphonline.com

The 20 councils from where the LCDAs would be carved out

Although the LCDAs are yet to be given the force of law, they have been mired in deft intrigues and high-level scheming with stakeholders in the political firmament of the state pushing for various interests and subterranean agenda. In addition, agitations ranging from change of name of some LCDAs, relocation of proposed headquarters, demand for additional local councils, boundary readjustment, funding and assets sharing have reared their heads. The current move to create LCDAs in the Gateway State was, however, not the first attempt. In 2003, the administration of former Governor Olusegun Osoba made a spirited effort to create 32 LCDAs. But the effort did not see the light of day after the then ruling Alliance for Democracy (AD) lost elections to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The succeeding government of Otunba Gbenga Daniel, which believed that the manner of establishing such LCDAs was an aberration to the Nigerian constitution, dumped the idea. Thirteen years down the line, the hysteria of LCDAs has filled the polity of the state again. This time, the Amosun administration increased the number of the proposed councils to 37. In the latest arrangement, Ogun East Senato-

The additional LCDAs is an indirect way of developing the state. It is a way of moving the state forward

rial District got a total of 22 local councils while Ogun Central and Ogun West zones were given 20 and 15 slots respectively. Since the idea was concretised and passed to the House of Assembly for consideration, it has been received with mixed reactions. To some political observers in the state, the creation of LCDAs was a welcome development as it would enhance grassroots’ governance and deepen democratic dividends. But to others, the LCDAs are rather meaningless creations that will be superfluous, bloat bureaucracy and further drain scarce resources. One of the several interest groups that have hailed the decision, Movement for Yewa-Awori Development (MOYAD), said the LCDAs were long overdue. In a communiqué issued after its recent meeting held in Ayetoro, Yewa North Local Government Area, the group noted that Amosun should be commended for revisiting the issue 13 years after it was cancelled. MOYAD said the granting of additional LCDAs to Ado-Odo/Ota and Imeko-Afon local government areas was in consonance with the current growth in population and in the spirit of equity, fairness and balancing. It urged all stakeholders to support the actualisation of the LCDAs. The communiqué was jointly

signed by Sanya Akindele and Biyi Ogunriola, the chairman and secretary of the group respectively. Also, two former state legislators, Benjamin Ogunmodede and Morufu Ajisegiri, applauded the governor’s decision to split both Obafemi-Owode and Abeokuta North Local Government Areas. In separate remarks, the duo noted that the creation of LCDAs out of the two councils was long overdue because of their large population. On his part, a former chairman of Abeokuta South Local Government, Alhaji Tajudeen Lemboye, said the LCDAs would foster participatory governance which is critical towards achieving desired development for the grassroots’ people. He advised that the LCDAs be created in line with the existing Federal Constituencies. But an elder statesman, Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye, had some reservation about the arrangement. He submitted that the LCDAs would not be viable in view of the dwindling allocation accruing to states. Durojaiye, a chieftain of All CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

POLITICS

C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 1

Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, said he had written to the government, advising it against the creation of LCDAs. He, however, noted that he would only change his position if the government could raise enough Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to fund the LCDAs. He said, “Last year I sent my view to the state government and I advised that we should not create new councils. I gave reasons for the position I took then. My position is still the same. “My fear on the proposed 37 LCDAs in Ogun State is how to finance them. If the people can cooperate with the government and raise the Internally Generated Revenue, maybe the LCDAs may be viable. But I have my reservations and doubts.” While corroborating the funding challenge, a former House of Representatives member, Hon. Bukonla Buraimo, believed the idea of LCDAs was not aimed at stimulating development but rather a scheme for selfish political agenda. Buraimo, who represented Remo Federal Constituency between 2011 and 2015, expressed dismay about the funding of the existing 20 local government areas in the state. He said, “Politicians always look for a way to fool the people. He (Amosun) wants to create the LCDAs because he knows people love power and positions; they love to be called executive secretaries, chairmen and so on. But these people are not likely to get a single penny to fund the new creations, especially when the existing 20 local government councils have been grounded financially. They don’t get their monthly allocation. “The reason behind the LCDAs is to create many positions for people to occupy and consequently an army of loyalists for 2019 elections. This is obvious. The idea is more political than for development. The existing councils aren’t being funded. So, how will he get the money to fund the LCDAs? It makes absolutely no sense.” A PDP chieftain, Sikirulai Ogun-

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Politics of new LCDAs

Adekunbi

dele, said the decision to create LCDAs was to hoodwink the people. Ogundele, a former chairman of Ifo Local Government and two-term member of the state House of Assembly, argued that the impending failure of the LCDAs is visible from the woeful performance of the existing councils. “The 20 local government areas are quite unviable. There is no local government chairman today that can boast of 10 projects in his local government. In a situation where local governments are rendered useless, what do you think LCDAs that are not recognised by the constitution would become? All I know is that people of Ogun State know when you are deceiving them,” he added. Another elder statesman, Prof. Biyi Afonja, warned that the LCDAs, if created as proposed, would further marginalise Ogun West Senatorial District. He fault-

Durojaiye

The reason behind the LCDAs is to create... an army of loyalists for 2019 elections

ed the sharing formula and contended that the allocation of 15 LCDAs, which is just 26 percent of the total number, amounted to short-changing Ogun West in the scheme of things. Afonja, therefore, called for the creation of additional eight LCDAs – Ilara, Ketu South, Ibese/Igbogidi, Yewa South Central, Ipokia East, Imotu, Owode/Ilogbo and Ere – to redress the alleged imbalance and lopsidedness in the state government’s proposal. But speaking against the backdrop of the cacophony of reactions, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Jide Ojuko, dismissed the misgivings of naysayers. He maintained that the LCDAs would survive in spite of the prevailing harsh economic climate. According to him, the LCDAs would survive since they thrived in neighbouring Lagos State,

which first took the bold step in creating additional local councils several years ago. Ojuko said: “The creation of the additional LCDAs is an indirect way of developing the state. It is a way of moving the state forward. “We will ensure that the new LCDAs are nursed and developed in the right way. In Ogun State, we are more than five million people and our opinions may not be the same at all times. I believe the LCDAs will survive. When Lagos created its own, the Federal Government held on to the allocation of the local councils, yet they survived. It is a matter of looking inwards.” On the agitation for boundary readjustment over the new LCDAs by some communities, the commissioner said only the Federal Government was vested with the powers to address the issue. Towards gauging public mood and gaining popular support for the LCDAs, the state House of Assembly has conducted stakeholders’ forum on the Local Government Amendment Bill before it. The forum, which received various memoranda for three days, had in attendance political functionaries, traditional rulers, community leaders and representatives of different socio-cultural organisations. The Speaker, Suraj Adekunbi, noted that the three-day public hearing was to ensure greater representation of the people in governance as well as open the avenue for better understanding of the peculiarities of each locality, while bringing out the ingenuity in the people to identify and utilise the hidden treasures in their environment for the sustenance of the local councils. In the days ahead, the bill for creation of 37 LCDAs, now at its final stage, is expected to be thoroughly deliberated by the Committee of the Whole House after which it would be passed into law, all things being equal, by the state lawmakers.

Time to reform federal character principle – Ekweremadu

eputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, has called for a drastic reform of the use of the federal character principle in public sector recruitments if the country is to move forward as it is being exploited by some individuals to promote ethnic agenda. Ekweremadu in a new book due for public presentation this month, said the fears of marginalisation that have suppressed meritocracy in the recruitments into the public service were largely unfounded as he affirmed that qualified Nigerians could be found in every part of the country. In the book titled “Who will love my country: Ideas of building the Nigeria of our dreams,” Ekweremadu argued that champions of the use of federal character have rather used the principle to uplift mostly their kith and kin at the expense of the larger population in their own ethnic groups. The 159 page book also has commentaries on the electoral process, party politics, revamping of public institutions, corruption and poverty reduction, among others. While noting that federal character has played an important role in fostering national unity and promoting cross cultural interactions, he, however, alleged that it has over time been abused and exploited to put mediocrity at the expense of merit in

the leadership recruitment process. He said: “The reality is that federal character, like any human enterprise, has been abused and exploited and is in dire need of reform. Regrettably, federal character has become a euphemism for recruiting unqualified people into the public service. Those who engage in this conduct wittingly or unwittingly increase the polarisation of Nigeria along ethnic lines by redefining federal character to include hiring unqualified and clearly unsuitable people just because of their ethnic origin. “I am profoundly disturbed by any attempt to staff our public service with people hired, not for their talent or qualifications, but simply because of their state of origin or connections in high places. Some people fear that employment standards have been recalibrated to accommodate the employment of people whose chief qualification seems to be that they come from a particular geographical zone. “These employees decrease productivity, weaken our public service, and ultimately render it inefficient. Employment should, as far as practicable, be based on merit and not distorted by patronage, nepotism, or tribalism. Federal character is designed to ensure that government jobs and positions are not disproportionately

occupied by particular ethnic groups to the exclusion of others. “Federal character, as currently administered, risks undermining the integrity of recruitment in the federal public service; we must re-examine the way it is administered. Ethnicity is a reality in Nigeria, and people would have to be irrational or willfully blind not to care about it. But we must understand that federal character does not mandate ignoring or even lowering recruitment requirements to accommodate any ethnic or geographical zone. “We must counter the all-too prevalent notion that federal character is a code word for filling the public service with citizens from our ethnic zones regardless of their qualification or fitness for available openings in the public service. Using federal character as a euphemism for recruiting incompetent and ill-qualified relatives and cronies is a recipe for political instability, economic stagnation, and failure. “The problems created by ignoring meritocracy in government appointments and the inefficiencies produced by the disturbing and counterproductive prioritisation of ethnic background over competence must be addressed if we are to move forward as a democratic nation. “Some people will be reluctant to sup-

Ekweremadu

port efforts to enthrone meritocracy as the operating philosophy of the federal public service. In fact, they will resist this precisely from fear that meritocracy will be used to exclude their people from public service. The fear is baseless. “I believe that competent and qualified people in all fields of human endeavour exist in virtually all segments of the country. The problem is that most people are unwilling to look beyond an immediate circle of cronies, friends, and relatives to find them. The federal public service will undergo a transformation if we commit to excellence and make concerted efforts to search geographical zones for those with the best qualifications for openings in the public service.”

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Comrade Sam Igwe is the leader of Agenda for Abia Advancement (AAA) and former Secretary General of Ibeku Youth Association. The political activist speaks on the administration of former Governor Theodore Orji, describing it as Abia State’s darkest years. He also speaks on the Okezie Ikpeazu-led government in the state

As a former Secretary-General of Ibeku Youth Association, what is your assessment of the immediate past government in Abia State under the leadership of a fellow Ibeku man, Chief Theodore Orji? No genuine Ibeku son or Abia son would ever wish to remember the past administration of Chief T.A Orji. That era between 2007 to date remains Abia's darkest years. In fact, it can best be described as an era eaten by the locust. It was an era of total leadership collapse. It was an era of intimidation and open threat to the lives of defenceless Ibeku people by their own son and Ndi Abia at large. In my own case, Chief T.A Orji sent his Permanent Secretary, Government House, Umuahia, Mr Nkwachukwu Agomoh and some unknown men to threaten, harass and intimidate my aged mother who was 84 at that time. To be specific, on Monday February 17, 2014, my eldest sister and in-law to be specific were at my country home at Ubani Emede Ibeku, when the permanent secretary, who said he was acting for the then governor said T.A. Orji will kill me if I don’t stop criticising his government. My mother’s health was adversely affected by this act and she has not recovered from this threat up till this day. Chief T.A Orji destroyed the existing unity he met in Ibeku land before he became governor. He destroyed Ibeku Youth Association by hijacking its cultural structures, using his son, Chinedu. He built roads only to areas leading to the houses of his friends. For example, Ubani Emede Ibeku road was abandoned because he saw no one in Ubani despite the fact that the Umuahia market, though another known scam was located in Ubani without any form of compensation. Ofeke Ndume Ibeku road was also abandoned because they refused to donate their land for the relocation of Timber Market Umuahia. In fact the worst thing done to Abians was the gift of T.A. He brought untold hardship to Abians. His government in-

POLITICS

T.A Orji’s tenure remains Abia's darkest years – Igwe

a strong virile opposition. The people need action. At times, I wonder if the parties have state publicity secretaries at all.

Igwe

troduced employment scam in Abia State; a situation were poor youths were deceived into purchasing employment forms in a state where there were no jobs. The then government through its Civil Service Commission defrauded our youths. They made millions of naira in this employment scam. What about none payment of salaries, dilapidated infrastructures, non existing roads, etc. The past government left the state in ruins. It was a wasted era. Do you think Governor Okezie Ikpeazu-led government will make the difference? Dr Ikpeazu's government is a stillbirth. It was dead on arrival. You cannot give what you don't have. Unfortunately what we are seeing today in Abia is what I will call ‘Leadership diminishing returns.’ The best civilian governor that has governed Abia State is Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu. After him, leadership has declined drastically and under Dr Ikpeazu, Abia is worse for it. The present governor is only an instrument in the hands of his godfathers; that is the immediate past governor and his son. Have you asked yourself why after receiving over N14 billion as bailout fund, Abia still owes salaries to the tune of three to seven months? Despite our huge monthly allocation, Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), taxation, etc, 11 months into this new government, workers salaries have not been paid accordingly? The government has no blueprint for the development of Abia. Substandard roads built in Aba are already abandoned, equipment used for road construction are near dead and Aba at the moment is a death trap yet we have a government in Abia State.

The past government left the state in ruins. It was a wasted era

But the people of the state had the opportunity to correct these anomalies in the last general elections. We must take note of the following. One, Ndi Abia voted for change; 80 per cent of Ndi Abia voted for change. They voted Dr. Alex Otti of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) for governor. As you are aware, he won clearly 14 of the 17 local government areas in the state. However, the good people of Abia were denied change due to our weak electoral system. These same people are not ready to submit to this present government as it is alien to them. Therefore we have an unpopular government in Abia State ab initio. Secondly, Abia State is too big for Dr. Ikpeazu. In the past administration, he was the Deputy Manager of Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) in charge of Aba alone. In that capacity he failed woefully. Aba was and still remains a stinking town due to the leadership ineptitude at the time and at the moment. Thirdly, Dr. Ikpeazu lacks the skills, know how and knowledge to govern Abia as this is evident in the lack of policy direction of the government in its 11 months inept leadership in the state. Fourthly, no governor survives in the bondage of a godfather. Unfortunately for Abia, he (Ikpeazu) has two godfathers, father and son. Are the opposition parties in Abia checkmating the excesses of the Ikpeazu-led administration? In my view, I would say they are not doing anything. Ndi Abia expects the nine members on the platform of APGA elected in the House of Assembly to represent a formidable opposition. Ndi Abia expects the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state and APGA to lead

Where do you see Abia in 2019? It is no longer business as usual in the politics of Abia State. Hope you were aware that Chief T.A Orji, the present government and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were randomly rejected during the last elections in the state. Hope you were aware that during the 2011 general elections, a unified one party Abia gave the PDP over one million votes during the presidential elections. What happened in 2015? PDP could only give the then PDP president at the time only 300,000 votes despite all the rigging. The fact remains that Ndi Abia voted for change during the 2015 elections. Ndi Abia voted Dr. Alex Otti of APGA for governor and Muhammadu Buhari of APC for president because they wanted a radical departure from the claws of PDP both in Abia and at the federal level but were massively rigged out by the PDP. Despite the rigging they could only deliver roughly 300,000 votes to the then president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. What informed the rejection of the PDP, which hitherto caled the shots in the state? Prior to the 2015 general elections, Ndi Abia were so disenchanted by the total collapse of governance in the state led by the tripod of father, son and wife that held the state hostage for eight dark years. Ndi Abia were not happy that Abia was a satellite campus of Abuja under the firm control of for mer president’s wife, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, whose arrogance at the time was embarrassing. Prior to the last elections in the state, Abia was a one party state. Then, when you pick the PDP ticket during its party primaries you are seen as the elected representative for that of fice in-waiting. This is no longer the case for Abia or for PDP in the state. A situation where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the state openly worked for PDP in the last election is also a thing of the past now. As you can see, APC now controls the Federal Government and we are confident that the leadership of President Buhari will not allow such indiscipline to see the light of day. 2019 is indeed pre gnant and Ndi Abia are expectant that their desired change will either c o m e b e f o r e 2 0 1 9 b y God’s g race or by 2019. It is visible to all that the present occupiers of Gover nment House cannot win re-election in 2019. In God we trust.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion Will Obiano work against Obi’s interest? My Word CLEM AGUIYI totalpolitics@ymail.com 0803-474-7898 (sms only)

olitics can be very unpleasant, likewise political hypothesis hence core politicians avoid giving straight answers to hypothesis. For the court ordered fresh election scheduled for the vacant Anambra Central Senatorial seat this seeming hypothesis may play a determining factor in what may become a straight face-off between Chief Sir Victor Umeh (APGA) and Former Governor Peter Obi (PDP).

When I wrote ‘Will Obi hold the leach or leave the leach?’ because I saw the gathering storm, Obi’s men descended on me. In their rejoinders they alluded I was paid by detractors to do a hatchet job. Truth was I wrote out of love for Obi. I wanted him to enjoy a peaceful retirement by leaving the leach having sold Willie Obiano to Anambrarians as their beloved new governor in whom he trusted. Obi in his celebrated valedictory speech promised not to interfere in the administration of his handpicked successor and true to his words, he left the leach. Obiano today, cannot say Obi is dogging him, and will never blame him for non-performance. Last week when I published ‘why I support Obi for Senate’ it became the turn of Umeh’s camp to accuse me of having been paid to write against their mentor. They said I am working for Obi when in actual fact I am writing for a larger Igbo interest. Regarding the issue under discuss: ‘Will Gov. Obiano work against Obi’s interest? Hypothetical as this might sound, truth is that, nothing is impossible, anything can happen. To underscore the seriousness of this hypothesis, Mr. Chika Nnorom wrote the following comments sent to me via SMS: “Since Obiano and Peter Obi are in a face off, Obiano will do everything to stop Peter not to win the Anambra Central Election, and hence the victory will go to victor Umeh of APGA.” Mr. Nnorom obviously was banking on the incumbency factor. Obi as governor is not the same as Obi the former governor- Loyalty has switched. But again the incumbency factor

though potent may not work effectively given that Obi is still popular and Governor Obiano is not the one on the ballot paper. However, the probability of Obiano working against Obi remains high. According to Tasie Nwadikobi, ‘Obiano working against Obi will be the peak of man’s ingratitude and height of political betrayal’. Sadly, betrayal is now the norm in our society and it’s ingratitude of this magnitude that has kept ndi Igbo down. ‘If someone you helped to power becomes your worst nightmare how then do you help someone else?’ he queried. I once read the story of this fellow who approached his bosom friend and borrowed his car to use for his wedding. After the wedding he failed to return the car as days turned into weeks, then months. Eventually the fellow came for his car but was resisted. To his shock the friend told him that he can’t return the car. The friend had forged the car papers and changed ownership to himself. Not even the police could settle the matter. It took a prolonged court process and judgment for him to retrieve his car. That’s how ugly our world has become and a true reflection of the characters of some of our political actors. By his own account, Obiano told the story of how he was having a restful life in USA after his retirement from Fidelity Bank as an Executive Director. By the way Obi as the Chairman of Fidelity Bank helped promote him Obiano to the position of Executive Director. In his search for a would be successor, Obi had bypassed all the candidates positioning for the job. I was pained when Charles Soludo was edged out; Uche Ekwunife who had assembled an intimidating war chest for the election was not spared, likewise the real estate mogul, Nwachi Obianwu, the Industrialist Dr Obidigbo and Prince John Emeka, former Minister of State for Water Transport. According to Obiano, he was by the pool side sipping champagne when Obi’s call came through to his phone. The conversation was straight; Obi requested him to take the next availbale flight to Nigeria because he had narrowed the search for his successor to Anambra North and had zeroed in on to him. Obiano’s feeble protest of not being prepared; not having the required fund and having not consulted with his people was shut down. All Obi required of him was his physical presence. Obi who was well loved had no problem installing Obiano as governor. He led him to all nooks and crannies of the state and campaigned for Obiano more than he ever did for himself. The message then was ‘if you like what we have done in the past eight years and would want the good work

Power is transient and there is Karma waiting for every betrayal

to continue – vote for Willie!’ On the other hand Obiano had done well in sticking to the 3Cs; continuity and completion and conception of new projects. His signature project which were the three flyovers spanning through Amawbia/ Enugwu Agidi Junction , down to Kwatar Junction and Aroma are all nearing completion . He also set up ANSIPA , the Anambra State Investment Promotion Agency which has attracted over $3bn foreign investment to the State. The so called face-off between Obi and Obiano has so far been speculative as nothing on the outside suggests a bitter feud. Obi has consistently maintained that he enjoys a cordial relationship with his predecessor except that they have not been exchanging visits. Like a proud dad he tells how proud he was when Obiano won the ‘Sun Governor of the Year Award’. While the speculation of a face off remains rife, ostensibly engineered by politicians who wanted to control the governor, it remains to be seen how Obiano will hastily forget how he became governor from obscurity. It remains to be seen how he proud he will be leading an open campaign that will demystify and destroy Obi in his backyard; I can’t wait to hear what Obiano will tell the good people of Anambra State; I can’t wait to listen to him tell voters that Obi is an ingrate for installing him as governor; that Obi is up to no good for trusting him as a successor; I cannot wait for him to tell the people that Obi is wicked for zoning the governorship to Anambra North and then narrowing the choice to his person; or that Obi is unworthy of being a senator because he funded his election without collateral. If Obiano decides to work against Mr Obi in the name of politics , it will not be strange neither will it be the first time such has happened. Theodore Orji betrayed OUK who made him governor from prison custody; Ikedi Ohakim betrayed Orji Kalu and Judas Iscariot sold Jesus for 30 pieces of Silver. If Judas could betray Christ 2016 years ago for mere 30 shillings, what stops Obiano from betraying Peter Obi in 2016 and still receive his Sunday communion from his Parish Priest and blessings from his Bishop. Power is transient and there is Karma waiting for every betrayal. Obiano can write his name in the book of infamy if he so wishes but he should constantly remind himself of the sorry end of Judas Iscariot; the plight of Ohakim and what is left of the reputation of TA Orji. He can look Obi in the face and return his kindness with wickedness, truth is that Jesus is watching, so are the faithful watching too and the custodians of the holy books keeping tabs. In less than no time there will be judgment, if not here on earth but beyond.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Re-Vehicle registration and number plates’ verification (2) PLATE has been produced by FRSC but yet to be assigned to a vehicle. This is a genuinely produced number plate but registration details are yet to be uploaded unto the portal. To resolve this, vehicle owner should visit state MVA to complain and have his or her details uploaded to NVIS Portal. The essence of the Information Verification Portal is to assist the owner of the vehicle and security operatives on the status of the number plates. The idea is that when the owner of the vehicle discovers that there are issues with the registration, he should use

the status or information gathered to clarify with the licensing office that handled the registration and if through a third party, confront the handlers. In summary, the verification portal provides four options when verifying number plates depending on the stage of registration as follows: a) Number not produced but tried to be registered by any applicant will result in “Invalid Number Plate” b) When a number is produced but not registered/ data not uploaded, this is the message you, “Number produced but not Registered”

c) When a number is produced and registered without genuine Insurance policy that is verifiable by NIIDB, the message you get is what the complainant got as “Number plate has been assigned to Lexus Jeep. However vehicle registration is yet to be completed.” d) When a registration is fully completed with genuine Insurance Policy resulting in the printing of Proof of Ownership, message will be “Number plate has been produced by FRSC and assigned to TOYOTA HIGHLANDER on 6/11/2013” Finally, we wish to reiterate that the role of FRSC in vehicle registration is

to set standards, design and produce number plates which are handed over to the SBIRs for distribution to the general public after payment of requisite road taxes. The FRSC is also involved in maintaining a reliable national database of all registered vehicles. FRSC should therefore not be castigated for the responsibilities of other agencies in the vehicle registration process. In fact, FRSC should be commended for being proactive by introducing the verification platform. For the avoidance of doubt, to verify your number plate,

you can use any of the following: i. Visit www.nvisng.org and verify the number plate ii. Text verifyplateno (Plate Number) to 33324 on your mobile phone. E.g. verifyplateno ABC000JR. iii. Visit the FRSC Desk Officers at the SBIRs. This is to assure the general public that the FRSC is always ready to collaborate with states in ensuring effective motor vehicle administration that will promote safety on our roads and enhance national security. • Bisi Kazeem Head, Media Relations and Strategy Federal Road Safety Corps RSHQ

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

EDITORIAL

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Labour, IE: When two elephants fight

lectricity consumers, under the Ikeja Elecricity Distribution Company, woke up on Monday, March 7 to hear the disheartening news of the company being shut down by Labour. And, for three days, (March 7-9), without any notice, electricity supply to about 12 local government areas and 17 Local Council Development Areas in Lagos State was cut off. The implication of this is better imagined than experienced. Economic and social activities were brought to a halt in these areas as a result of the fight of the two elephants – Labour and Ikeja Electric. And, of course, the land (customers) had to suffer the consequences of this action. Millions of artisans who depend on electricity for their daily bread bore the brunt. Companies were not spared. Economic activities in Nigeria’s industrial hub, Ikeja and its environs were brought to a standstill. What compounded the situation was the lingering fuel scarcity. No power, no fuel, no money. Electricity consumers in these areas were literarily brought down to their knees. Asides barricading the entrance to the Alausa, Ikeja headquarters of Ikeja Electric, Labour also shut down and sealed 14 transmission stations and 57 injection sub-stations of the company from where power is being distributed to its customers. Labour’s fury was stoked by the sacking of 229 (Labour puts the figure at 400) workers of the

company who were also members of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) and the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies. The Nigeria Labour Congress, backed by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the affiliate unions, had to resort to picketing IE after their 7-day ultimatum to the company to recall the disengaged workers expired. For the three days that the picketing lasted, workers gathered every morning at the company’s premises, singing solidarity songs and disrupting the activities of the power distributing company. Apart from protesting the

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The consumers, who were shortchanged by the 3-day blackout, should come out of this better in the aftermath of all these

disengagement of workers, some of Labour’s grouses include poor condition of service; casualization; no structured career path progression; poor remuneration; harassment and intimidation of workers; setting of unrealizable target for staff by the company, among others. The siege on the company was, however, suspended when IE and Labour reached an agreement to set up a committee to review the performance appraisal and competence process. Ikeja Electric, last week, announced it had pulled out of the agreement, citing Labour’s determination to stick to a position that the review process was flawed. The

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company said continuing in the talks would be an exercise in futility. Speaking through its Head, Corporate Communications, Felix Ofulue, the DISCO said rather than engage in an objective and constructive review of the whole appraisal process which is tailored in line with global best practices, Labour preferred an arbitrary review in which reduced criteria would be applied to certain selected employees who are members of the union. In all of this, some points are salient: Labour has an undeniable right to protest any action that they deem unsavoury to its members,

especially when their members are not well treated. However, in fighting for their members’ rights, the leadership should be mindful not to trample on other people’s rights. The leadership of Labour should not engage in any irresponsible mission that could harm millions of Nigerians, their means of livelihood and the country’s economy. The leadership should also be flexible in negotiations. Ikeja Electric’s management, on the other hand, has a duty to reposition the company and change the battered image of corruption and ineptitude it inherited from the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) days. Labour should realise

that gone are the days when the company was owned by government and the staff would engage in corruption and ineptitude with impunity. Ikeja Electric has been privatized. The onus now is on the company’s management to tweak its workforce to promote efficiency and excellent service which have long been denied the consumers. A responsible Labour leadership should strive for equity and progress. It should be objective, transparent and mature in tackling conflicts and, most importantly, not hold the whole nation to ransom in trying to solve the problem of a few. Most importantly, the consumers, who were shortchanged by the 3-day blackout, should come out of this better in the aftermath of all these. The management of Ikeja Electric should know that their performance rating with the public is at its lowest now. They should shake this off with better performance by providing 24-hour power to their customers. The company should also look into Labour’s grievances and address them without much prompting as a responsive and responsible company. Paying consumers should not be made to suffer unnecessarily for what could be solved by talks. Power is not a sector that should be joked with. Consumers who have had to pay through their noses for sevices not rendered by DISCOS deserve better treatment. Anything short of this is not acceptable.

POLITICS

CHARLES ONYEKWERE writes on the subtle race for Enugu State governorship seat in 2019 between the two major political parties – Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC)

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

2019: PDP, APC in early race for Enugu guber seat

bout three years to the next general elections, the race for the governorship position in Enugu State between the two major political parties - Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) has commenced. Although governance in Enugu State at all levels has been under PDP’s control since the country's return to democratic rule in 1999, leaders of the APC in the state believe they can win the 2019 governorship election given the number of political bigwigs in the state, who have swelled its ranks of late. From 1999 to date, the PDP has produced the state’s three governors. Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani ruled for eight years between 1999 and 2007. He was succeeded by Sullivan Chime, who also ruled for eight years (2007 to 2015). The incumbent, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, was elected in 2015 and he hopes to serve two terms like his predecessors. But the APC appears not deterred by this record as it plots to upstage the PDP in the Coal City state. The party seems to be fired by the mass exodus of PDP founding members in the state to its fold since the emergence of President Muhammadu Buhari. Recently, the former governor of old Anambra State and one of the founding members of PDP, Senator Jim Nwobodo, formally declared for APC at a stakeholders meeting chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, in Enugu. Nwobodo, who arrived at the meeting with the symbol of the APC – broom – announced his exit from the PDP and entry into APC with the former secretary to Enugu State Government (SSG), Senator Fidelis Okoro. The PDP also lost another bigwig; former Senate President Ken Nnamani, who declared that he had to quit the party as all efforts made to reposition it did not yield any result. Boosted by these defections, the APC has stepped up its strategy to take over the state in 2019. Consequently, a political group in the state, Buhari Support Organisation (BSO), which is in the vanguard of the campaign, has urged Nigerians to be patient with President Buhari as he strives to clean the rot left behind by the PDP. The group said while it was mindful of the current hardship being faced by the people, such situation would soon give way to

Ugwuanyi

a new lease of life. The state coordinator of the group, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, who spoke at an event to mark the anniversary of Buhari's electoral victory on March 28, 2015, pleaded with Nigerians to help the president in his avowed determination to fight corruption. He described Buhari’s victory as a milestone in Nigeria’s political history. Okechukwu said as a change agent, Buhari has within one year of his election unleashed unprecedented war against corruption and motivated the Nigeria Armed Forces to decimate the Boko Haram insurgents, hence opening the chapter for economic growth. His words: “Nigeria is on the march again towards a progressive and prosperous country, where more than ever before, the welfare of the people counts and where the security of the people is paramount, where corruption is tamed and where the peoples votes count. “We salute the momentum of Buhari's war against corruption and his stand that if Nigerians do not kill corruption; corruption will kill Nigeria. Let's join him to kill corruption for the good of us all and our future generation. He noted that they were celebrating the March 28, 2015 presidential election, inspite of the hardship in the land because it is a democratic milestone and the most important and successful democratic project in many respects. “To mention a few, it is the first time an incumbent president was defeated via free, fair and transparent election. This is a democratic landmark as no incumbent in Nigeria is henceforth untouchable or invincible anymore. “Secondly, the democratic milestone election produced Buhari – the Change agent – the first time an anti-corruption crusader was elected, based strictly on his in-

Onyeama

Besides harmonising the party, Ugwuanyi is also working hard to fulfill his election promises

tegrity and not his money. It is a model for future generations. “Thirdly, it made the first smooth handover of power from one civilian president to another civilian possible. For this we salute the former president, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, who patriotically conceded defeat. “Fourthly, it is the first time the power of our votes was confirmed, hence arming Nigerians with the worth of the votes in our hands. We now know that with our votes, we can vote non-performing president, governors, legislators out,” Okechukwu said. The APC threat has compelled the PDP to put its house in order as it holds congresses to elect new executives at the various levels in the state. To this end, the party has zoned its key offices to the three senatorial zones of the state. The zoning of offices was the outcome of the State Executive Committee (SEC) of the party held in Enugu recently. The meeting was attended by Governor Ugwuanyi; Deputy Governor, Cecilia Ezeilo; Senators Gilbert Nnaji and Chukwuka Utazi, and other members of National and State Assembly. Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu was absent. Although journalists were not allowed to witness the executive session of the SEC, sources told New Telegraph that the meeting zoned the three top officesChairman, Secretary and Deputy Chairman to Enugu East, Enugu West and Enugu North senatorial zones respectively. Other offices were also zoned according to the three senatorial zones. The State Publicity Secretary of the party, Okey Eze, confirmed the new zoning arrangement. When asked why Ekweremadu was not at the meeting, Eze said the Senate number two man travelled abroad. Before the meeting went into executive session, Governor Ug-

wuanyi appealed to party faithful to imbibe the spirit of love, unity and peace as members of one family for the PDP to enjoy a smooth exercise that would guarantee its success in future elections. Ugwuanyi, who stressed that the progress of the party depends on the success of its congresses, noted that the meeting was the first after his inauguration as the governor of Enugu State and used the opportunity to thank members of the party for their contributions and support during the 2015 elections. He also reassured them of his administration’s commitment to advance good governance in the state. Earlier in his address, the state chairman of the party, Chief Ikeje Asogwa, informed members of the SEC to start holding meetings in all the 260 wards of the state for the purpose of updating ward registers in preparation for the congresses. He also urged members to show more commitment to the success of the party in the state. Besides harmonising the party, Ugwuanyi is also working hard to fulfill his election promises so as to continue to enjoy the peoples’ confidence despite the prevailing economic challenges. The governor has commenced the process of awarding more road projects and other infrastructure across the state, in line with his determination to advance good governance. A notice from the state’s works’ ministry stated that the action was “in line with the grassroots development policy of the government of Enugu State to construct and rehabilitate some infrastructural projects in the state.” A cross section of Enugu State indigenes, who spoke on the unfolding political drama, said the governor’s grassroots development initiatives will continue to earn him the peoples' support. They noted that Ugwuanyi has done well given the fact that most states are battling to pay workers’ salaries because of the glut in the prices of crude oil in the global market. They further commended Ugwuanyi for his vision, innovations and commitment to the wellbeing of the people of the state who voted him into office, praying that the economy of the state and the nation improves for the governor to accomplish his people-oriented programmes. According to an indigene of Amechi-Idodo in Nkanu East Local Government Area, Hon. Ekene Nnamani, “the news of the commencement of the process for the award of more road projects in Enugu State inspite of the current economic challenges is quite awesome and commendable. It shows that Governor Ugwuanyi has our interest at heart. It also shows that he was prepared for the job and has a clear vision on how to move the state forward.” No doubt, the governor is on track but it takes more than achievements in office to win elections in Nigeria.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Anti-graft

Inside Abuja

Idiagbon House: The 'mirror' that humbles the mighty

News BBOG urges FG to develop dossier on Chibok girls

19 21

Madalla Market along Abuja-Kaduna expressway

Madalla Market: Trading close to an 'open grave' Abdulwahab Isa ABUJA

n the 30 years of its existence, it has been a major source of carnage, a dangerous red spot that has sent many souls to their untimely graves. The few lucky ones that escaped horrific death by dint of divine intervention were either maimed for life, or are carrying visible scars to remind them of

Onwuka NzeshI

ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF nzeshi@newtelegraphonline.com

their close shave with death. Many other victims have been consigned to wheelchairs, rendered immobile for life. Yet, this notorious spot responsible for these untimely deaths and unforgettable brushes with hell still remains attractive to thousands of people, from far and near. Every Thursday business Welcome to the world of Madalla market, located on the ever busy Abuja-Kaduna Expressway. Madalla is a boundary community located very close to Zuba in Abuja. It is actually situated in Suleja Local Government Area of Niger State but its proximity to the Federal Capital Territory makes it a convenient abode for many civil servants, artisans and construction workers who work in Abuja. The journey from Madalla to Abuja takes about 35 minutes on a normal day, but certainly not on Thursdays, the day

It is like trading very close to an open grave and not knowing when you might fall into it

set aside for the famous Madalla market. Indeed, every Thursday is a nightmare for travellers on Abuja-Kaduna Expressway as they commute through Zuba and Madalla, two communities that have since become like cojoined twins. Traders at the market have over time extended the display of their wares from the original location to the edge of the highway. The display of their goods has become so uncontrollable that even the premises of a new age bank and a nearby petrol station has not been spared. The result is a heavy gridlock along the double carriage way every Thursday as human beings and vehicles compete for right of way. It has been a source of several accidents, death and agony. It is like trading very close to an open grave and not knowing when you might fall into it. Chains of sorrow In 1998, an oil tanker laden

with petroleum products and heading from the nearby PPMC Depot in Suleja, skidded off the road just when it got to the Madalla Market and was navigating its way through the hectic traffic. More than 50 people were roasted to death in that single accident. In 2006, an articulated truck belonging to a construction firm lost control on a Thursday when the market was in full session, wounding scores and sending more than 10 traders to the great beyond. In 2007, another fuel tanker loaded with products skidded off the highway, spilling its highly inflammable contents into the market. Before long, some overzealous ‘madalla boys’ went scooping the fuel flowing freely like a river. This ignited a big inferno that destroyed a large part of the market and leading to the death of several persons. Reprieve coming soon To put an end to the incessant but avoidable carnage which the market has become, authorities of the Suleja Local Government Area have concluded plans to relocate the market to a safer and more secured location. Chairman, Suleja Local Government Council, Hon. Ahmed CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Inside ABUJA

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Mararaba/Nyanya: A tale of two slums Chukwu David ABUJA

araraba and Nyanya are two ghettos situated on the northeastern gateway to Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. Although both communities have merged into one large urban slum, Nyanya is strictly part of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) while Mararaba falls within the jurisdiction of the government of Nasarawa State. In spite of this difference in terms of administration, the common denominator for both enclaves is that their residents live in squalor and feel little or no government presence. They are situated within seven kilometres drive from the Abuja city yet residents of these places live in such a horrible condition that could only be compared to living in a war ravaged and abandoned community. The enclave is currently in a deplorable condition, as houses are literally sitting on filth and garbage, with deep gullies dotting the access roads. Unfortunately, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Nasarawa State government appear to have completely abandoned the area as no form of social infrastructure development is going on in the place. The popular Nyanya Market which is believed to have generated so much revenue for the FCTA in terms of taxes has not attracted a commensurate development to the area. Even the Mobile Police (Mopol) quarters in Nyanya is surround by refuse dumps and the road leading to it virtually impassable due to gullies that have developed on the road, making it difficult for some residents to access the road. The situation is usually worse whenever it rains because the whole area is always flooded, while some people who live on sloppy and swampy topographies run helter-skelter, grap-

lResidents live in squalor, seek assistance

A typical road in Nyanya/ Mararaba

pling with running water flowing into their rooms and shops. One of the residents, Mr. Adamu Shehu, told our correspondent that the people in the area were feeling like abandoned citizens. He wondered why the FCTA should turn a blind eye to the suffering of the people that make so much contribution to the government's revenue profile. "What the FCT government is doing to us is not good. Look at where we are living; is there any difference between this place and piggery? There is no difference my friend but the same FCTA imposed all manner of taxes on the residents of this ghetto. "If you want to really appreciate the plights of the people living in this Nyanya, try and come here when it rains. In

Refuse dumped in a drainage by the roadside is a common sight in Nyanya

Enclave is currently in a deplorable condition, as houses are literally sitting on filth and garbage

fact, you will conclude that this place is not habitable at all," he lamented. For those living in Mararaba suburb, the major problem of the area is also bad road network, as deep gullies and uncontrolled dumping of refuse by residents have made the whole community uninhabitable. Whether in dry or rainy season, the place is always damp and stinking because the poor sanitary habits of its residents and the absence of a co-ordinated refuse disposal system. Since there is no government presence, many residents cut public roads indiscriminately and channel the waste water from their kitchen and sometimes toilets to the open drainage, thereby leaving the whole area with a foul, repulsive odour.

Some residents who spoke with Inside Abuja said they were torn between two worlds and accused the FCT and Nasarawa State Government of being totally insensitive to the welfare of the people. Mrs. Stella Adams, who sells food items at Mararaba Market, decried the poor sanitary condition of the community as well as the deplorable state of roads in the area, saying that successive government of the state had neglected the people living in Marataba. She further regretted that, in spite of the fact that Mararaba generates huge revenue into the coffers of Nasarawa State Government, no serious attention had been given to boost the socio-economic development of the area. Inside Abuja investigations revealed that the trouble started when the FCTA embarked on demolition of illegal structure in Abuja and its sattelite towns without adequately making alternative provisions for these families forced to leave Abuja. The result was that those displaced from the city simply converged on Nyanya and Maraba, the nearest points where they could find affordable shelter and be able to commute daily to the city to keep their jobs. An estate development consultant, Harold Obi, told Inside Abuja, that the uncontrolled development and squalor in Nyana and Mararaba could have been avoided if the FCTA and the Nasarawa State Government had had good foresight and planned the development of the area like modern satellite towns. According to Obi, the situation was not irredeemable as both the FCTA and the Nasarawa State authorities could go back to the drawing board to develop a joint master plan for the two border communities.

Chonoko

Inside ABUJA

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

EFCC building

Emmanuel Onani

he paradoxical saying that "today is the anniversary of yesterday", finds better expression in the investigation and prosecution of politically exposed persons (PEPs) and other highly-placed individuals by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), over sundry allegations bordering on fraud, money laundering, abuse of office, among other offences. The EFCC, therefore, has the unenviable mandate of waging an anti-corruption war against those it suspects may have breached or ran foul of the extant provisions of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Act; an onerous duty that may have necessitated the choice of naming a building "Idiagbon House". The symbolism in the "dreaded" building cannot be lost on those with evergreen memories of recent history, where Major General Tunde Idiagbon, then Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters under the regime of Major General Muhammadu Buhari (now President), drove the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) with exemplary dedication and fearless courage.

Magu

Idiagbon House: The 'mirror' that humbles the mighty With this presence of mind, therefore, the EFCC was not misguided or misdirected, when it named the building as "Idiagbon House", to reflect the serious business that goes on there almost always. The imposing structure serves the purpose of interrogation of suspects, who have been invited to answer questions on allegations of corruption made against them. These range from money laundering, abuse of office, bank fraud, advance fee fraud, as well as forgery. It will, therefore, be safe to say that the fear of the Idiagbon House, is the beginning of caution for would-be suspects, as it humbles the high and mighty in society, who literally shudder to reconcile themselves to the reality of being invited to the headquarters of the anti-graft agency. The "dreaded" structure is am-

The EFCC was not misguided or misdirected, when it named the building as "Idiagbon House"

bivalent in nature, as it befriends staff of the commission, who work there, but is tough on those alleged to have compromised good conduct. Two things are likely to happen when a person honours invitation: they are either granted administrative bail (pending conclusion of investigation), or kept on the strength of a Remand Order from a Magistrate Court, pending possible arraignment, before a court of competent jurisdiction. Arguably, apart from the State House and Government Houses, no building in Nigeria could boast of "playing host" to men of means like the Idiagbon House. Many PEPs, very senior serving and retired military officers, among others, had submitted themselves to interrogators at the symbolic building, buttresses the earlier submission. Former governors, ministers and bank executives have been guests of the Idiagbon House. Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd): the former National Security Adviser (NSA), who is in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS), had been held at the Idiagbon House, from where he was charged to court on offences bothering on $2.1 billion arms purchase scandal. The Federal Government alleges that Dasuki abused his office when, rather than apply the $2.1 billion to the purchase of arms, ammunition as well as other military equipment, to bolster the counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operation in the North-East, he converted same to a platform for political patronage. Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa: it will

be recalled that the EFCC had held a former governor of Sokoto State, Bafarawa, for a while, before releasing him. Bafarawa, who held sway in Sokoto between 1999 and 2007, was interrogated based on the allegation, that he benefited from the "patronage" from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh (rtd): Following an interim report by the 13-man Audit Panel on arms procurement between 2007 and 2015, the EFCC invited and quizzed a former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh (rtd). Badeh, whom the panel had indicted and recommended for further investigation, is giving account of his stewardship as Chief of Air Staff (CAS). Air Marshal Adesola Amosu (rtd): Badeh's successor as CAS, Air Marshal Adesola Amosu (rtd), was also quizzed by operatives over what the Presidency alleges, was "arbitrariness" in the procurement of helicopters and other hardware during his tenure as head of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). They are many other personalities of note, who kept separate dates at the Idiagbon House, apart from the aforementioned, as the antigraft agency struggles to convince the court beyond reasonable doubts, that the accused persons (for those that have since been arraigned in court) may be guilty as charged. The ultimate decision, as far as the alleged offences are concerned, resides with the court, as an accused remains innocent until the accuser proves otherwise.

INSIDE ABUJA \ NEWS

C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 7

Diko Kassim, said the present location of Madalla market is not just a risk to the traders but poses a great danger to motorists and anybody that has anything doing on the road where the market is situated. Kassim told Inside Abuja that at a recent meeting, stakeholders reviewed developments around the market and unanimously decided to move it from its present location to a safer environment. He said he has also briefed the authorities of the Niger State Government in Minna who have also endorsed the proposal. "I have already taken a stand. In this local government council, we have decided to relocate the market to a more suitable location. I was able to brief stakeholders from Suleja and Madalla and they unanimously accepted our decision. His Excellency, Governor Abukakar Sani Bello directed me to talk to stakeholders and I did, and I reverted to him on the response of the stakeholders and he was pleased. We have already chosen a site. "The size of the new location is enough to accommodate the market and in addition, we are proposing the construction of a motor park beside it because if you noticed, Madalla does not have a befitting motor park. So we want to kill two birds with one stone by creating a motor park in front and market at the back. The location is behind the uncompleted residential housing estate by Madalla U-turn on your way from Abuja express before Zuma rock. Behind the estate, is a large expanse of land," Kassim said. He observed that the size of the current market is too small compared to the number of traders that patronise it, adding that that was the reason people displayed their goods on highway. "We tried as much as possible to prevent people from displaying their wares and goods on the highway; but again the market is located just by the road side and people just gather on the side of the road after buying their items. Most often, that road is blocked by traders who have extended their shops from inside of the market to the main road. Apart from the vehicular traffic being created, there are also rampant reports of carnage, accident and report of security threat which no serious government will fold its arms and continue to watch,” he said. As if to further underline the need to relocate the market, Kassim said the present location has been under litigation, adding that the original owner of the plot of land has won the court case and was awarded the sum of N100 million by the court. According to him, the amount was a source of concern to the council because the council never realised such a huge amount of money in terms of rates and taxes in the over 30 years of the market's existence there. “What prompted the final decision was a pending litigation in respect of the status of the land where the market is located. There is a man who took the local government to court claiming government has trespassed on his land. So, at the end he was

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Trading close to an 'open grave'

Traders, customers at the Madalla market

able to obtain a judgement in his favour and thereafter, we took the matter to the Court of Appeal. However, we lost at the Court of Appeal and we are to pay him N78 million with some other expenses which comes to N100 million if we must continue to operate the market on that land. After the stakeholders’ deliberations with his own counsel, the local government finally agreed to relinquish

the land because we do not have the N100 million and secondly the land itself is not suitable for the market,” he said. Kassim disclosed that in the last 30 years the market has existed, only a paltry sum of N15,000 is remitted to the council on a weekly basis as dues collected from the market. He alleged that there was a cabal feeding fat from the market and who collected

There are cabals that have been running the affairs of the market for a very long time

Inside the market

dues and pocketed them. “We also realised that that market is a liability to us and not an asset simply because the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) realised from that market is a paltry sum of N15, 000 every Thursday being the market day. There are cabals that have been running the affairs of the market for a very long time. The income from the market the cabals are the ones sharing it and they give peanuts to the government. We calculated what had come to the coffers of the local government between that time and now and not up to N10 million. Now the owners of the land are claiming N100 million, a clear indication that this property is a liability and not an asset. The best way is for the local government to relinquish the liability so that we can move forward,” he said. District Head and Hakimi of Madalla, Alhaji Musa J. Said, said measures were put in place by the Madalla Vigilante Group to ensure that every session of the market on Thursdays was conducted hitch-free. He said though the services of providing security and ensuring free flow of traffic were being rendered absolutely free, the council authorities have stopped the vigilante group from operating at the market. Mixed feelings Some traders at the Madalla market have expressed mixed feelings about the impending relocation of the market. Mrs. Stella-Maris Dike operates a beverage store right inside the market and does not like the idea of relocating the market, as according to her, it will entail crossing the highway from her house to the new location. “Yes, I have heard about the relocation of the market to a new place and even some traders have rushed down there for allocation of space but nothing happened ever since that first move. For me, I will suggest they leave the market in its present location. They should just improve on controlling the traffic and check people that are encroaching on the expressway,” she advised. Another trader, Nwachuckwu Moses, sells sandals and shoes by the road side. He believes that the present location is not suitable for safe commercial activities and would want the government to relocate it. "We have been hearing it, year after year, that they will build a new market for us but everything remains where they are. They will not do anything. Everybody likes another suitable place but will government be sincere by moving the market to another suitable place”? asked Moses. Mrs. Hauwa Dauda sells second hand wares in front of Mobil filling station inside the market. Dauda said she was aware of the danger the market location poses but since she had no other place to conduct her trading and earn her income, she comes to the market every Thursday to sell her wares trusting God for ultimate protection.

INSIDE ABUJA

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BBOG urges FG to develop dossier on Chibok girls Our Correspondent

he BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) group has urged the Federal Government to develop a detailed dossier for each of the 219 girls through the collation of basic information from their families. The group said that the dossier should contain details such as names of their parents and siblings, occupation of their parents as well as their last known address as these would assist security agencies in profiling the girls. In a press release signed by leaders of the group, Aisha Yesufu, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili and Hadiza Bala Usman, the group urged the government to share these information with the governments of

neighbouring countries and embassies of other countries to facilitate in tracking the missing girls. “In the case of other missing citizens of Nigeria, we should formalise the responsibilities for the setting up of a Missing Persons Bureau (MPB) or desk situated within the relevant department or agency of government. The MPB should be empowered to collate details of missing persons nationally into a register that is accessible online to accredited or registered stakeholders. “Government should also plan for the establishment of a DNA analysis centre in the country. The need for this cannot be overemphasised. In the long run, this will remove confusion about identities of people, whether from the scene of an accident or from the theatre of war

FG compensates owners of demolished structures Amadi Nnamdi ABUJA

h e Fe d e r a l G ov er nment has taken delivery of some new coaches as part of effor ts geared towards the completion of the technical aspects of the ongoing Abuja – Kaduna Rail Moder nisation project. The delivery of the coaches is preparatory to the test run, commissioning and commencement of commercial services. Minister of Transportation, Mr. Chibuike Amaechi, who disclosed this during an inspection tour of the project at the Idu Railway Terminal, said that three more coaches would be added to the fleet before the commencement of operations of the rail services. Amaechi also said

that compensation for the demolition of the Daughters of Charity Catholic Hospital, Kubwa, was ready for collection, adding that the Certificate of Occupancy for the new site allocated to the demolished hospital has been delivered to the management of the healthcare facility. He explained that gover nment was passionate about compensating owners of buildings demolished in the process of constructing the railway. According to him, the compensation package would go a long way in alleviating the plight of the patients and staff of the hospital, stressing that gover nment has been working round the clock to ensure that the compensation and other claims to owners of demolished structures were paid on time.

in the northeast. It will help identify mass of people buried horrifically in shallow graves across the occupied local government areas that were under Boko Haram's control for

BRIEFLY

he Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command said at the weekend that it had arrested 38 suspects in connection with various crimes. Commissioner of Police in the FCT, Mr. Wilson Inalegwu, stated this at a media conference in Abuja. He said the arrests were part of the command’s commitment to reducing crime to its minimum in the territory. According to him, the Command has continued to record remarkable

school girls were not the only Nigerians held in captivity by Boko Haram. It therefore urged the Federal Government to start a compilation of DNA

infor mation of Nigerian citizens with the Chibok girls as test case in order to be able to track them down using the scientific information from their families.

Acting Managing Director, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr Jones Afolabi (right), welcoming the Acting Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (Nddc), Mrs Ibim Semenitari, during her visit to NAN Headquarters in Abuja …recently

Council poll: How police averted electoral violence in Kubwa Our Correspondent

violent clash between supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kukwaba area of Kubwa, Abuja was averted at the weekend following a prompt intervention by the Nigeria Police in Kubwa. The incident which occurred in the build up to last Saturday's Area Council elections saw the supporters of both parties throwing stones and sticks at one another An eye witness told Inside Abuja that the crisis began when the campaign train of the PDP was attacked by

Police nab 38 crime suspects Our Correspondent

some time," the group said. BBOG said that while it has been at the forefront of the advocacy for the rescue of the Chibok girls, it was aware that the missing

achievements in the areas of crime prevention and arrest of suspected criminals in different parts of Abuja. "In the last couple of weeks, the renewed crime fighting strategy of the command has led to the arrest of notorious criminals and busting of criminal gangs. I want to reiterate that FCT is a no-go area for criminals as we will continue to improve on our strategy to beat criminals at their game,” he said. He disclosed that the command also recovered 12 vehicles and impounded 20 cars from a syndicate in the territory.

their opponents when the former was on its way to pay a courtesy visit on the Chief of Kubwa at his palace. Although no lives were lost in the incident, the rampaging party thugs smashed the windscreens of a number of vehicles in the vicinity before a detachment of policemen arrived the scene to restore normalcy. Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Kubwa, Chief Superintendent Nuruddeen Sabo, said it took the prompt despatch of three patrol vehicles and policemen to disperse the crowd and restore peace to the area. According to him, some of the party thugs

caught destroying cars were arrested and currently undergoing interrogation at the police station. Meanwhile, some residents of Kubwa have questioned the rationale behind the fracas and have condemned the party thugs for their acts of lawlessness. Sunny Donald who runs a provision store in the area expressed disappointment that the youth were still engaging in thuggery for politicians who do not care about the masses after winning elections. "It is a pity that these boys have not learnt any lessons all these years. Why should you die for a politician who is seeking a public of-

fice when you know what usually happens at the end of the day? How many times do you see these politicians after the elections? These boys should grow up and demand accountability from the government instead of accepting peanuts from them during campaigns," he said. Idris Ahmed, a civil servant, lamented that though Kubwa was part of the Bwari Area Council, the authorities of the council only remember the town during elections and thereafter when they send their task force to shop owners and motorists for the payment of different rates and taxes.

Court orders arrest of ‘professor’ over forgery

n Upper Area Court sitting in Gudu, Abuja has ordered the police to produce a trustee of the Assemblies of God Church, Rev. ‘Professor’ Paul Emeka before it to answer criminal charges preferred against him, bothering on certificate forgery. The order signed by U.Y. Kagarko, judge of the Upper Area Court, followed a complaint by the Incorporated Board of Trustees of the Assemblies of God Church, Nigeria, which alleged that the suspect presented himself to the church, claiming to be a professor from the

University of Derby and was subsequently made one of the trustees of the church in 2012. According to the prosecution, the church later discovered that the professorial certificate presented to it was false, based on its enquiries from the University of Derby and police investigations in Nigeria. The university in a letter to the petitioners signed by James Eaglesfield, had distanced itself from ‘Professor’ Emeka, noting that they have no information on such a person in the school's academic records.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

PDP sued over national convention

ome members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have asked an Abuja High Court to strike out the name of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party from the suit they filed to chal-

lenge the tenure of office of the party chairman. The PDP members, Nwosu Emmanuel and Eze Chuks Silas, in the suit are challenging the emergence of Senator Ali Modu Sheriff and the elongation of his tenure

of office. They are also asking the court to compel the party to computerise party membership register. They are also seeking an order of the court to stop the National Convention scheduled for May 21.

Dasuki to have access to lawyers A

n Abuja High Court last week ordered the Federal Government to allow a former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) access to his lawyers between the hours of 8a.m. and 4p.m. The Federal Government through the Economic and Finan-

cial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Dasuki and about three others over alleged diversion of N13.6 billion meant for arms procurement. Others are Shuaibu Salisu, former Director of Finance, Office of the National Security Adviser, Aminu Baba-Kusa; former

General Manager of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC); Acacia Holding Limited and Reliance Referral Hospital Limited. Dasuki had been in the detention of both EFCC and the Department of State Services (DSS) since December 2015.

Inside

ABUJA

COURTS

with Tunde Oyesina

Ekweremadu fights back T he Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, last week challenged the competence of a suit instituted by five senators challenging the legality of the election of Dr. Bukola Saraki as Senate President and Ekweremadu as deputy before the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja. The plaintiff in the fresh suit argued that five aggrieved senators

erred in law by filling the action vide originating summons. He further claimed that since the case of the aggrieved All Progressives Congress (APC) senators was predicated on alleged forgery of the Senate Standing Order, they ought to have brought the action to court through a writ of summons instead of originating summons.

Orubebe in court T

Secondus

Dasuki

he Federal Government last Thursday opened its case against a former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godsday Orubebe, who is standing trial over a one-count charge of false asset declaration before the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) sitting in Abuja. The prosecution at the resumed trial presented first witness, Samuel Madojemu, an

official of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB). While testifying, Madojemu told the tribunal that Orubebe failed to declare his property at Plot 2057, Asokoro District, Abuja, as a minister between 2007 and 2011. He added that Orubebe submitted five asset declaration forms to the bureau between 2007 and 2011 within the period he served as minister.

How ONSA paid N300m to Bello's account

Court turns down Metuh's requests T

he Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Friday dismissed two applications brought by the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olisa Metuh, who is standing trial over alleged receipt of N400 million part of the

Prosecution Witness 2, Stella George, in the ongoing trial of Dr. Bello Haliru Mohammed, former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) last Thursday told the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja that, there was

an inflow N300 million from the Office of National Security Adviser (ONSA) to the account of BAM Projects and Properties Limited, owned by the accused person. George, who is a relationship manager with Sterling Bank, while

N10m damages for Secondus

he Federal High Court sitting in Abuja also last week awarded the sum of N10 million damages against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) having declared

as unlawful, the arrest and detention of former Acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Uche

being led in evidence by counsel to EFCC, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), stated that on March 18, 2015 a sum of N137, 200,000 was transferred to Kumu Golo Limited and another transfer of N178,800,000 was made to North Polo Global Services same day.

Secondus. Secondus had approached the court to enforce his fundamental human rights,

which he claimed was infringed upon by the anti-graft agency. In the application, Secondus had asked

money meant for the purchase of arms. The two applications dismissed were the ones asking the judge to disqualify himself from further presiding over the trial and another one seeking an adjournment sine dine pending when the appeal at the Court

of Appeal will be heard. Metuh had approached the Court of Appeal to challenge the ruling of the court which refused his no case submission. After dismissing all the applications, Justice Abang adjourned till yesterday for Metuh to open his defense.

the trial judge, Justice James Tsoho to declare his arrest and detention as illegal He also asked the court to award damages against the commission.

In his ruling, the court held that: "The first prayer of the applicant is hereby granted and the sum of N10 million damages is hereby awarded against the respondent (EFCC)."

Photo news

King of Hope, Master Damian Aleburu and President of Face of Hope, Ms Grace Ibironke, teaching children, during a visit to the Internally Displayed Persons (IDP) camp at new Kuchingoro, in Abuja …at the weekend.

L-R: Wife of the Speaker, House of Representatives, Mrs. Gimbiya Dogara; wife of the Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode; Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Farouk Adamu Aliu and Acting Director General, NAFDAC, Mrs. Yetunde Oni, during the conferment of Excellent Performance Award on the wife of the President, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, by Murya Magazine, in Abuja…at the weekend.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Energy Fuel scarcity: No long-term solution in sight

Business What's news African carriers set to lose $100m in 2016

Homes & Property How govt can fast-track mass housing, by experts

25 29

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

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

EXCHANGE RATE

(BDC as at April 8)

(Interbank as at April 8)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N322 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N457 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N360

l Foreign Reserves – $27.864bn as at 31/3/2016

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

Source: CBN

p.24

Experts to legislators: Fasttrack passage of developer’s bill p.24

L-R: Managing Director, Tejumade & Son Nig. Limited, Alhaji Tejumade Issa; Managing Director/ CEO, Cinergy Consulting, Femi Olaore; Minister of Communication, Mr. Adebayo Shittu and President, Association of Telecommunication Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Mr. Lanre Ajayi, during a special reception for Shittu, in Lagos.

CAPACITY Land needed for sugarcane cultivation in the next 10 years to meet local demand is 250,000 hectares

The Business Desk Ayodele Aminu

Deputy Editor (Business)

Bayo Akomolafe

Asst. Editor (Maritime)

Sunday Ojeme

Asst. Editor (Insurance)

Tony Chukwunyem

Asst. Editor (Money Market)

Dayo Ayeyemi Property Editor

Adeola Yusuf Energy Editor

Wole Shadare Aviation Editor

Chris Ugwu

Capital Market Editor

Abdulwahab Isa Finance Editor

Taiwo Hassan

Industry, Agric & Brands Editor

Kunle Azeez

Senior Correspondent

Chuks Onuanyin Energy

Nnamdi Amadi Reporter

Johnson Adebayo

Asst Production Editor

Bayo Akomolafe

espite the incentives offered by the government to boost sugar production in the country, Nigerian ports would still take delivery of 1.47million metric tons of sugar valued at N71.3billion ($356 million) before the end of this year, as local production fell to 70,000. According to a data portal that gathers facts and statistics, Index Mundi, Nigeria produced 75,000 tons in 2015. The global price of the commodity per metric ton is $242.50. It was learnt that the commodity would be 0.34 per cent higher than the 1,465,000 metric tons imported in 2015. In 2014, Nigeria imported 1,470,000 and 2013; it shipped in 1,450, 000 metric tons. The data revealed that between 2013 and 2015, the country imported 3.08million metric tons valued at N149.4 billion ($746,900,000million). Just last week, three merchant vessels, An Ning, Sweetlady III and Lindsaylou berthed at Lagos

Nigeria to import N71.2bn sugar in 2016 Port with 139,250 metric tons of the commodity valued at N5.57billion ($27.9million). According to the Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) shipping position, while An Ning was laden with 46,250 tons, Sweelady and Lindsaylou berthed with 46,800 and 46,400 tons respectively. The commodity is majorly shipped from Brazil - the largest exporter of sugar to Nigeria, which produced 35million metric tons in 2015. In 2012, a five-year tax holiday was given to investors in the sugar value chain. During the period, 10 per cent import duty and 50 per cent levy on imported raw sugar; 20 per cent duty and 60 per cent levy for imported refined sugar were given in order to boost local production. In addition, three-year concessionary tariff of a five-per cent import duty and five per cent levy on imported raw sugar was imposed between 2013 and 2015 on the refineries, which signed-on to the government’s Backward Integration Programme (BIP) to discourage importation.

N149.4 billion Being the total amount Nigeria spent on importation of sugar in the last three years

However, the recent decline in the local production of sugar has been linked to poor infrastructure, which is preventing local supplies from meeting the rising sugar consumption in the country over the next five years. The government had revised the sugar tariff structure to boost domestic raw sugar production, and employment by offering a zero per cent import duty on machinery and spare parts for local sugar manufacturing firms. Meanwhile, the National Sugar Development Council said that the country needs $1.238 billion to meet 49 per cent or 860,000 metric tons of the total sugar demand by 2020. In 2008, the government directed NSDC to develop a road map for attainment of self-sufficiency in sugar within the shortest time possible. The council said that the country would need to establish some 28 sugar factories of varying capacities and bring about 250,000 hectares of land into sugarcane cultivation, over the next 10 years in order to meet up local demand.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS |news

African carriers set to lose $100m in 2016 PARADOX Majority of African passenger traffic is transported by nonAfrican airlines Wole Shadare

frican airlines are facing another year in the red, as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicted collective losses of approximately $100 million for 2016. This follows loss estimates of some $300 million for African carriers in 2015, according to the organisation’s revised industry outlook, in which it projected that globally the world’s airlines are set to register around $33 billion in net profits for the year now closing. IATA’s chief economist, Brian Pearce said that the low commodity prices are seriously affecting airlines’ profitability in Africa. “It is disappointing,” he commented. “Africa has got a big potential but the continent seems to be moving in quite a difficult position at the moment principally because of the weakness of commodity prices, which means much lower revenues for the economy. That stopped a lot of beneficial improvement in economy growth”. Pearce equally lamented the sharp fall of exchange rate especially in Nigeria and South Africa, which he noted has not impacted in substantial fall in fuel cost. His words, “We have seen in the past that airlines were able to make money when the price of oil is high. Oil is not the only factor. And indeed what we have seen in many African economies at the moment is that the exchange rate has fallen very sharply, for instance in Nigeria and South Africa. And that means that the dollar price of jet fuel is low but many African airlines are not seeing those benefits in local currency terms because of the exchange rate fall. Due to the currency devaluations, there has not been substantial fall in fuel cost.” According to Pearce, Africa continues to be hit by regional conflict, social unrest and epidemics. “There is a list of things unfortunately that all come together and make it very difficult for airlines to prosper in Africa,” he said.

Fallen exchange rate affects Nigeria, S’ Africa Nonetheless, he said there are still very good airlines in Africa held back by a high level of regulatory cost and government restrictions on market access. “That is why the majority of African passenger traffic is transported by non-African airlines,” said Pearce. According to IATA’s research, for African airlines the reduced fuel costs associated with the lower oil prices are not offsetting the negative effect of the wider drag on the region’s economy caused by falling income from commodities like oil. Pearce noted that local currency devaluations are undermining the carriers’ ability to ben-

efit from the falling price of jet-A, since the fuel is priced in U.S. dollars. The factors contributing to the losses sustained by African airlines are mostly external to the industry itself. Quite apart from the impact of lower commodity prices, violent conflict and social unrest in some countries are denting tourism demand. Pearce also claimed that government restrictions and high regulatory costs are impeding growth in the sector. IATA is projecting that, on average, African airlines will lose 93 cents per passenger per flight in 2016, representing a declining net

margin of -0.5 per cent. This contrasts with an anticipated global net margin increase of 5.1 per cent (amounting to a $9.59 profit per passenger with overall net profits of $36.3 billion). “I think governments in Africa should see air transport as an engine of economic growth and development,” concluded Pearce. “And they need to facilitate the expansion of air transport, which increases tourism, trade and create sustainable jobs in Africa.” IATA director general and CEO Tony Tyler highlighted inadequate airport infrastructure as another obstacles for airlines in Africa.

Besides, he expressed reservations about the viability of some planned airport developments, including Ndjamena in Chad, Addis Ababa in Ethiopia and Dakar in Senegal. He said: “What we would like to see is that investment in better infrastructure takes place in a measured way after consultation with the users and what is built is appropriate and relevant to what the industry needs and is not building palaces, which cost too much and are much bigger than what the industry needs at that time.” The airline industry is expected to post a profit of US$36.3 billion next

year on the back of lower oil prices and stronger travel demand, IATA said in its outlook. The airlines’ association said that the net profit forecast for next year reflects a 5.1 per cent profit margin for the industry. It also revised its net profit outlook for this year to $33 billion, up from the $29.3 billion predicted in June. “Lower oil prices – forecast to be $55 per barrel Brent in 2015 and averaging a lower $51 per barrel in 2016 – are giving airline profits a boost,” said IATA. Next year, the trade body anticipates passenger numbers to rise 6.9 per cent next year to 3.8 billion, up from 6.7 per cent this year.

L-R: Chief Operating Officer, Seven Energy, Mr. Jeff Corey; Head, Human Resources, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Ms. Funke Amobi; Human Resources/ Corporate Services Executive, MTN Nigeria, Ms. Amina Oyagbola and Area Head, Talent and Organisational Effectiveness, British American Tobacco, Mr. Oshiomha Irumekha, during a business session and HR People Magazine award in Lagos.

FREQUENT 142 cases recorded in Lagos state in 10 years

Dayo Ayeyemi

orried by the prevailing cases of collapse building with their attendant loss of lives and properties, Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) has called on the National Assembly to expedite action on its bill seeking regulation of all developers in the country for easy coordination. Vice President, REDAN, South West zone, Mr. Taiwo Ogunbodede, made this call in a chat with New Telegraph in Lagos. He said that speedy passage of REDAN bill,

Experts to legislators: Fast-track passage of developer’s bill which had been pending in the National Assembly for six years, would give his group the required legal backing to regulate the industry. If the bill is passed, Ogunmodede said it would empower REDAN by ensuring that all developers are registered and their activities are controlled in compliance with building standards to guide against collapse. He said: “It will be like other professional associations such as the Nigeria Institution of Estate Surveyors of Valuers (NIESV), Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) and Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) among others, for easy coordination.

The REDAN VP said: “As it is right now, there is no law backing REDAN to ensure that every developer registers with the association and that is why anybody can build anyhow”. He noted the bill was sent to the National Assembly about six year ago and that nothing has been done about it, urging the legislators to ensure speedy of the bill in this new dispensation. The South West REDAN boss disclosed that, although the developer of Lekki Gardens, where a 5-storey building caved in recently had built about 6,000 housing units, but it was not registered with the nation’s apex developers’ association. About 142 cases of

collapsed buildings have been recorded in Lagos state alone in the last seven years, while experts are canvassing an holistic approach to arrest the ugly development. Gross indiscipline and corruption by all stakeholders have added to the problem of building collapse, as they have rendered the relevant laws ineffective. Ogunmodede attributed incessant collapse of building in Nigeria to inadequate preliminary works, adoption of wrong foundation, poor concrete mix ratio, lack of approved structural design, poor building material specification, climate and poor workmanship. Others are wrong con-

version of building, lack of qualified and appropriate professionals, inadequate quality control, fire disaster, bomb explosion and lack of maintenance culture among others. To sanitise the building industry, Ogunbodede suggested that developers and owners of large scale construction companies should be properly trained and encouraged to give their construction projects to competent and registered contractors. Besides, he stressed the need for developers and builders to be compelled to comply with approved building regulations before the commencement of construction.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Energy

Fuel scarcity: No long-term solution in sight The measures initiated by the federal government to tackle the nation’s recurring energy crisis won’t end fuel scarcity, writes ADEOLA YUSUF

verwhelmed by the energy crisis rocking the country, the federal government last week heightened measures to end fuel scarcity and the incessant collapse of the national power grid. While engineers were swiftly deployed to fix the national power grid, the minister of state for petroleum resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, was confident that the scarcity would end on or before last Thursday. The reverse was however, the case, as queues for fuel were still noticed in Lagos last weekend. “Hopefully by today through Thursday, the fuel queues in Abuja should be over. Hopefully, the same thing will happen to Lagos and thereafter, by the weekend, we should see Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Port Harcourt and Warri get off this state,” Kachikwu said penultimate Tuesday, while briefing the members of the National Assembly. Grounds for confidence The minister had reasons to be that confident because nine merchant tankers last Wednesday arrived and offloaded at the Lagos pilotage district with 216,768, 679 million litres of Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as fuel and security agencies including the Nigerian Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) joined in the monitoring of the supply chain from the depot through the filling stations to the end consumers. Besides, the Federal Government also deployed operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) on depots in Lagos and filling stations across the states and Abuja. New Telegraph gathered that the monitoring of filling stations by the DSS was to ensure that the product, which is being loaded massively at the Apapa depots to various stations in Lagos and Abuja, got to end buyers at the pump price. A management staff of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), who hinted this newspaper, maintained that the monitoring by DSS was done to ensure that the deadline given by the minister to end scarcity in Lagos and Abuja was met. The source said: “The government will want to do everything possible to ensure that the long queues for fuel nationwide end and we have identified sufficient monitoring of the product’s supply chain as being cardinal to achieving this.

Long queues at filling stations as fuel scarcity bites hard in Lagos.

“While personnel of all the uniformed security agencies, including men of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) are involved in this, the DSS agents have also been co-opted. They have their strategies on how to do this, but that will be done across the supply chain,” he said. This newspaper gathered that DSS agents on duty picked up an attendant in one of the filling stations on Oba Akran road, Ikeja, Lagos over sharp practices. The attendant was said to be selling PMS inside kegs to black marketers when the DSS officials apprehended him. “We were instructed by our manager that we should not sell into jerry cans if we don’t want to go to jail and I do not want to go to jail,” an attendant at the Mobil filling station, Emmanuel bus stop, Agege, told our reporter. Foreign exchange hurdles Having identified the shortage of foreign exchange as hindrance to the importation of fuel by marketers, the minister said that International energy companies in Nigeria have agreed to provide about $200 million to help fund fuel imports amid a foreign-currency shortage. “I have been able to convince the upstream oil companies to provide foreign exchange buffers over the next one year for those who’re bringing in products,” Kachikwu said in video posted on his Facebook page last Thursday. Total SA and Exxon Mobil Corp. will provide dollars to their local retails units, Total Nigeria Plc and Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc, while Royal Dutch Shell Plc has been paired with local oil importer Conoil Plc and Eni SpA with Oando Plc, said Kachikwu. Companies importing fuel in Nigeria have been hindered by lack of access to foreign exchange following the plunge in the price of oil, the main foreign

income earner in Africa’s largest oil exporter. This has resulted in widespread supply shortages across the country of about 180 million people that state-owned NNPC, has been unable to address, Kachikwu said. Nigeria imports about 70 percent of its refined-fuel needs, after decades of poor maintenance and mismanagement left four state-owned refineries working at a fraction of their 445,000 barrels per day capacity. Royal Dutch Shell, Total, Eni, Chevron Corp. and Exxon Mobil Corp. run joint ventures with the NNPC that pump about 80 per cent of Nigeria’s crude. Shell officials in Lagos declined to comment, while spokespeople at Chevron, Exxon, Total and Eni didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.

The queues will come back if we maintain the ways of doing things

Fuel scarcity to linger Although these measures are already having positive effects, experts in the sector, however, said that the strategies could not permanently end the incessant scarcity of the product in the country. Former Managing Director of refineries in Kaduna and Port Harcourt, Engineer Anthony Ogedengbe, is one of the experts that believed that the scarcity couldn’t be stopped totally with the on-going measures. Ogendengbe insisted that the queues will still return after a while, if the government does not put real measures in place to permanently nib the scarcity in the bud. “The queues will come back if we maintain the ways of doing things,” he said, adding that the “stakes in the refineries should be given to companies with competence and funds”. He said this does not mean that the government will sell them out-rightly “but the competent companies, which will be in charge will make sure that those

installations are not only profitable but also perform at maximum capacity for the benefit of Nigerians”. Crude swap The outright cancellation of crude swap arrangement and the inability of the government to get new contracts created a gap in the supply of petroleum product by the NNPC. The 445, 000 barrels daily allocation for refineries became redundant when the government was forced to shut down the installations over pipelines attacks and there was no agreement in place again then to swap the crude for refined product. The probe of the swap contract exposed some middlemen, brief case contractors and other sharp practices. The contracts’ cancellation however, created a big gap and fuelled the scarcity of the product. The government should therefore ensure that other swap contracts that would be put in place as alternative to refineries, for now, should be transparent and corruption free. PIB to the rescue The Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), according to Adebayo Alamutu, an oil expert, is the way to go to permanently end the incessant scarcity of fuel. With the PIB, the federal government on its own, plans to split the NNPC into two to help ease a planned stake sale and wants to sell at least 40 per cent of a newly created National Petroleum Company (NPC) in coming years. This was contained in a draft of a long-awaited PIB. The bill seen by Reuters, envisages the sale of at least 10 per cent of NPC over five years and is targeting 40 per cent or more over 10 years, as Africa’s top oil exporter seeks to fix a cash shortage that is hampering investment at NNPC and end graft. The National Assembly is to CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS | Energy

DEFICIT Ghana barely received a third of 133MMscf/d volume of gas contracted to receive from 2015 Adeola Yusuf

he total volume of gas exports from Nigeria to Ghana, Togo and Republic of Benin dipped to 59 million cubic feet per day in 2015, data from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has revealed.

Nigeria’s gas export to Ghana, Togo drops The corporation said that the total volume of natural gas export from the country through the West African Gas Pipeline in 2015 was 21.62 billion cubic feet. This, the data revealed, translated to an average of 59 million cubic feet of gas per day(MMscf/d). The West Africa Gas Pipeline (WAGP) is a five-year-old facility constructed to deliver gas from Nigeria to Benin Republic, Togo and Ghana. The contracted volume

from WAGP to Ghana, the largest economy of the three, is 133MMscf/d. The country barely received a third of that volume for most of 2015. The best month of WAGP delivery in that year to the three countries was last September, when the pipeline pumped an average of 94MMscf/d. But that figure is a stark outlier in the data. The closest behind it is 79MMscf/d recorded in August, followed by 61MMscf/d in July 2015.

Ghanaian officials have lamented severally, that the unreliability of gas supplies from the WAGP is a major reason for electricity outage in their country. Ghana’s minister for petroleum, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has earlier said that his county would continue to depend on Nigeria to shore up the demand deficit in its gas needs even if the ENI, TEN projects are completed. According to him, the two projects even though when

L-R: Head of Sales, Oando Marketing Plc, Mr. Babafemi Olabiyi; Dealer, Oando, OjoduBerger Service Station, Mr. Babalola Matthew; Regional Manager, West, Oando, Mrs. Taiwo Gaji; Sales Branch Manager, West, Mr. Arowolo Oluwaseun and Sales Branch Manager, West, Mr. Dada Olusola, controlling and regulating traffic flow at the company’s service station on OjoduBerger, Lagos.

Fuel scarcity: No long-term solution CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

start debating within days the amended bill, in the works for a decade and designed to change everything from taxes to environmental rules and revenue sharing, as well as overhauling NNPC. Lawmakers have not previously been able to agree on the 200-page bill, but President Muhammadu Buhari has made its passing a priority, as he seeks to overhaul the oil and gas sector, which accounts for 70 per cent of state income. NNPC’s output has been stagnant at around 2 million barrels a day for years, as the company struggles with graft, bureaucracy and funding problems. To accelerate the reform process, the government is breaking up the bill, with the first part dealing with the reform of NNPC, a pet project of President Buhari. “Divestment of shares ... may include the sale or transfer of shares to institutional or strategic investors,” the draft read, according to Reuters, without giving more details. The previous PIB draft had called for a 30 per cent sale within six years. “It gave no reason for the longer timeframe but a source involved in the draft said selling a larger stake

was intended to raise more funds and help minimize the risk of corruption, because of the greater influence of outside investors and private firms,” Reuters reported, quoting the source to have added; “bidding is open to international investors”. Part of Nigeria’s output comes from Joint Ventures (JV) with foreign and local companies in which NNPC holds the majority stake. However, NNPC is always behind on covering its share of costs owing to the slow pace of government approvals, explaining the need for outside funding. The act that created NNPC decades ago contained legal gray areas, which allowed mismanagement to go unchecked and billions of dollars in revenue to go seemingly unaccounted for. NPC will look after joint ventures mainly with oil majors, while the second company to be created from NNPC, dubbed NPAM, will manage all productionsharing contracts and service agreements, a second source involved in drafting the bill said. The draft bill already lists 26 licences but the source said there would be many more. The second source involved in the drafting also

said that the other bills, which would be part of the overall reform of the energy sector have not yet been finalised. Private refining capacity The government needs to encourage more participation of private investors to boost the country’s total refining capacity. While efforts that have been geared towards this are commended, the government must do more to make incessant fuel scarcity a thing of the past in Nigeria. Conclusion The federal government perceives Nigeria more as the biggest oil exporter in Africa than as the biggest fuel consumer in the continent. The way the President and his minister of state for petroleum resources have been going about getting member-countries of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to support Nigeria’s output freeze campaign while the scarcity of fuel was rocking Nigeria speaks volume. This perception should, however, be changed totally by putting measures in place to permanently end the incessant acute shortage of petrol in Nigeria, which is gradually becoming a tradition in the Africa’s biggest economy.

completed will add some 60mmscl of gas to the existing120mmscf being supplied by the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant, it will still not be enough to meet the country’s needs. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) processed by the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant is about 70% of the nation’s demand. Tweneboa-Enyenra Ntomme (TEN) development project, which is being spearheaded by Tullow is expected to add about 30mmscf while additional 30mmscf would be supplied by Italy’s ENI in collaboration with Vitol Energy from the Sankofa and Gye Nyame Fields. TEN, Kasapafmonline.com learnt, is expected to produce its first oil and gas in August, 2016. That from ENI/Vitol Energy will be ready in 2018. The petroleum minister though enthused about the progress being made in the energy sector still believes that the country will still need support from Nigeria, but was quick to add that a lot of plans are being made to ensure that the West African nation becomes independent in its energy needs. “The reality is that we have projected that in the next 10 years, 80% of the power plants in Ghana will be thermal and the cheapest source of fuel is gas. And so, we need to do everything possible to ensure that we get the gas that we need,” he noted.

Revenue: Ikeja Electric goes tough on erring staff Kayode Oyesile

he Ikeja Electric (IE) has bared all its staff and exstaff including linesmen, engineers and technicians from collection of cash from customers. It had also embarked on an aggressive “name and shame” campaign where parties who engage in this fraudulent act will face prosecution as dictated by the laws of the land. Head of Corporate Communications, IE, Felix Ofulue, who said this in a statement, also cautioned customers against making cash payments to staff of the company. Ofulue maintained that none of the company’s linesmen, engineers and technician is commissioned to receive cash payments on behalf of the company. He said: “Basically, our linesmen should not collect reconnection fees, neither are our Energy Sales Representatives (ESR’s) permitted to receive bill payments on behalf of customers. “We have therefore embarked on an aggressive “Name & Shame” campaign where parties who engage in this fraudulent act will face prosecution as dictated by the laws of the land,” he said. Ofulue, who labelled staff and ex staff who engaged in this illegal act as saboteurs, urged all customers to resist efforts by any staff to extract monies from them illegally and also report them to the management.

He disclosed that to enable customers make convenient and seamless payments and purchase of tokens, new multiple payment channels have been provided by the company. He explained that the new payment options were designed to offer all customers security, greater convenience and choice, and also intended to make the payment process more efficient. “By expanding our payment platforms, customers can now make payments and purchase tokens seamlessly by using scratch card vouchers, which are sold by vendors and agents across its networks; Quick teller, which can be accessed on mobile devices and through internet banking on online banking portals” he added. The other payment channels, according to him, include Pawakad, a mobile app payment system, which is managed by strategically located agents; Baxibox, commonly known as ‘Baba-Ijebu’; Point-of-Sales terminals as well as through Direct Bank Teller in any Zenith Bank branch. He warned that customers who continued to make illegal payments to IE staff were not only doing so at their own risk, but were also sabotaging the efforts of Ikeja Electric to improve service delivery across her network. The company spokesman advised customers to ascertain the true identity of staff who call on them on behalf of Ikeja Electric by requesting to see their identity cards.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Homes&Property

FIRST QUARTER REVIEW

Property experts have keyed into the Federal Government’s plan for mass housing, suggesting critical solutions for the initiative. DayoAyeyemi reports

How govt can fast-track mass housing, by experts

t is no longer news that Nigeria has about 17 million housing deficit and that 68 million of its citizens are living in indecent houses. In the face of this lack, the current government is working to ensure that Nigerians are properly housed. This has also become an headache for stakeholders in the housing sector since President Muhammadu Buhari announced the initiative during the opening session of the National Economic Council Retreat on the economy in Abuja. Buhari had said that the Federal Government would build 250,000 units, 22 states governed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) would build 250,000 units, while 500,000 housing units would be built by the private sector. This arrangement, according to him, is to enable his party meet with its election promise of providing one million houses per year for Nigerians. The president said he had invited foreign investors and local construction companies to assist the country in covering her housing deficit. He said: “Some estimates put Nigeria’s housing deficit at about 16 million units. In our successful campaign to win the general election last year, our party, the APC, promised to build a million housing units a year. “This will turnout to be a very tall order unless the Federal Government builds 250,000 units; 22 APC states together manage another 250,000 units. We invite foreign investors together with local domiciled big construction companies to enter into commercial housing building to pick up the rest”. Experts’ view Following President Buhari’s declaration, housing experts have analysed the issue and the modality that should be put in place to drive the goal. They are also conscious of the fact that successive governments in the past had promised affordable housing to citizens without marching their words with action. Speaking with New Telegraph, some of the experts canvassed robust funding, modern construction method to fasttrack the process and an enabling environment to attract private investors. A former Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development in Lagos State, Mr. Toyin Ayinde, a town planner, said there was need for the

Blocks of flats at Anthony Enahoro Estate, ShogunroOgba, Lagos

government to pump money into construction to revamp the economy, which has been at its low ebb since the beginning of the year. He said that since the Federal Government plans to release about N350 billion into the economy, it should give the whole money to the construction industry to generate employment and affect the economy positively. Ayinde said: “Construction industry is one of the largest employers of labour. It brings vibrancy to the economy. You can imagine what will happen when building a 10-floor project, architects, engineers, builders, bricklayers, iron benders, tilers, painters, carpenters and other labourers including food, pure water and recharge card vendors will be involved. There will be a lot of jobs for people.” On the one million houses per year agenda, Ayinde said that there were salient posers that ought to have been provided answers to as regards the availability of land, house design, construction method and availability of mortgage. He said: “Where is the land? What type of design are we looking at? Is government doing these houses across each state equally? Is it considering the advantage of vertical expansion and the infrastructure required?” Ayinde noted that with the current construction technology for housing in the country, the government might not be able to meet the planned one million accommodation units

It is important for engineers and builders to look for modern technology to fast-track construction

per annum. On the way out, the former commissioner suggested the need to consider a modern construction method that is fast and can give room for vertical building. According to him, building one million houses in a year will require huge investment and creation of an enabling environment on the part of government. He said: “It is when we improve the technology that we can improve housing supply. It is important for engineers and builders to look for modern technology to fast-track construction. “Standardisation of house design will also help to achieve mass production,” he advised. Also, a former President, Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) and Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria (APBN), Mr. Bunmi Ajayi, said Nigeria would make progress if the government pumps money into housing to create jobs for the people. He said: “Buhari has to put a lot of money into construction, especially real estate in order to inflate the economy”. On private sector motivation to realise the dream, Ajayi urged the government to create an enabling environment for investors to bring in money, pointing out that housing construction requires huge investment. He said that the creation of conducive environment will go a long way to attract private investors to partner the government in the construction of 500,000 hous-

ing units as scheduled. Besides, he advised that the issue of Land Use Act be looked into by finding a way around it to encourage home ownership among Nigerians. “As regards the Consent Clause in the Act, government must summon courage to remove it,” he said. Chairman, Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, Lagos Chapter, Mr. Samuel Offiong Ukpong, said: “If real estate sector is vibrant, 80 per cent of unemployment will be solved”. He, therefore, tasked the government, being the biggest spender, to invest in housing heavily and carry along the private sector in its implementation. Challenges As part of the challenges, President Buhari had identified high rents, unaffordable prices for prospective buyers, especially middle and low-income earners, red tape, corruption and plain public service inefficiency as delays in obtaining ownership of title documents.“These hurdles are by no means easy to scale, but we must find solutions to the housing deficit. This retreat might start by looking at the laws,” he said. Conclusion Most developed countries in the world are those nations that their citizens are well- housed. President Buhari must, this time around, march words with action by considering many alternatives for mass production of houses for the citizens.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Business | Homes & Property

Govt has no business in housing, says Omais boss DEFICIT Nigeria has between 16 and 17 million housing gap

Stories by Dayo Ayeyemi

he government has no business in providing houses but to ensure that the operating environment is conducive for the private sector to thrive, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, OMAIS Investment Group (OIG), Chief Omo Aisagbonhi, has said. Speaking with New Telegraph in Lagos, he tasked the government to see how it could ease the process of perfecting titles, resolve the issue of multitaxation, make land readily available, and build necessary infrastructure to fast-track mass housing by the private sector. He said: “Gover nment has no business in providing houses. The process of perfecting title is still longit takes six months to one year. The issue of multitaxation is there – you pay different kinds of money at different stages of construction. “Government should give the private sector proper environment to thrive. It should also direct banks to give money to developers”.

Currently, he said that the financial crunch in the country is affecting the disposable income of an average home seeker. The housing sector is also affected by the plunge in oil revenue, cash liquidity problem, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s forex restriction, naira devaluation and anti-

materials. Speaking about Trinity Mall, which his company commissioned a year ago in Ikeja, he said that the harsh economy has affected patronage. Consequently, he said a promo had to be introduced to attract people to the mall. He said that unstable

policies and general import decision of the government were issues to be tackled. “Those formulating these policies are deliberately encouraging smuggling. There is no strong policy on border control, yet they banned those products. This will continue to encourage smuggling,” he said.

L-R: Winner of the Hyundai Grand car’s, Mr Omotayo Oluwatoba, and Chairman, OMAIS Investment Limited, Chief Omo Aisagbonhi, during the presentation of car keys for best customer at Trinity Mall, Ikeja, Lagos

Firms float product for home seekers in Lagos, Abuja ent seekers, who are currently unable to afford their choice properties can now achieve their dreams, as PropertyBank and TrustBond Mortgage Bank Plc, have launched an innovative rent product solution. Tagged, “Rent Actuation” the product according to a statement, is specially created for residents who cannot afford their rent at the moment. The innovation offers residents 80 per cent to rent a house at any location in Lagos and Abuja. PropertyBank is an online real estate marketing platform with arrays of properties covering residential, commercial, industrial properties, warehouses and plots of land. Rent seekers can now contact PropertyBank for options of houses selectable from the platform while TrustBond Mortgage Bank Plc will provide funding. To benefit from this initiative, subscriber will contribute 10 per cent minimum equity with no collateral. One-year rent is repayable within six to nine months, while two years rent is repayable within 12 to 18 months. The disbursement of funds is however, subject to meeting the terms and conditions of TrustBond Mortgage Bank Plc.

money laundering activities of the Federal Government. Aisagbonhi lamented that things had become tough for many business owners due to unfavourable policies of the government. He added that the foreign exchange restrictions had also made business difficult for importers of building

According to the Chief Executive Officer, Property Vault Limited, Mr. Andy Morkah, the involvement of Trust Bond mortgage has provided residents the opportunity to access rent loan for properties provided by PropertyBank Morkah stated that the goal of the rent actuation plan was to empower consumers with the most thorough information in the market and bring them in direct contact with the agents. He explained that PropertyBank is owned by Property Vault Limited, adding that it offers an online tool that guides homebuyers through the process of owning a home and renting an apartment. He said: “The platform owners have weeded out fraudulent acts, as they intend to finalise the offer, negotiate with the listing agent and coordinate closing. “You can search for your perfect home to buy or rent by area, price and property type; call, chat or mail our agents for further information, clarity and enquiries as well as schedule visit time to see desired properties. “At PropertyBank, we help you find your perfect property. Our listings aim at providing you with as much information as possible and an in-depth insight on each property

Forum mulls local materials for improved GDP

mproved application of local raw materials in projects to boost the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will form the nucleus of discussion when housing stakeholders meet in Lagos in a forum billed for two weeks. Themed: “Indigenous Materials in Housing Delivery,” the confab, which is the H15th edition of the popular Lagos Housing Fair (LHF), will be chaired by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Packaged by Lagos State Radio Service and Beachland Resources Limited, more than 120 exhibitors, have already indicated interests to showcase their products at the event, which holds between April 25 and 30 in Lagos. Justifying the theme while briefing journalists in Lagos, the Chairman, Lagos Housing Committee, Mr. Moses Ogunleye, decried the proliferation of Nigeria’s property market with foreign building materials when the nation has abundant resources that can be sourced for housing construction. He said that there is no need for importing building

materials at exorbitant rates since all components used in the construction of buildings can be sourced locally. Consequently, he said that the choice of theme for the year’s event was hinged on the need to put a searchlight on local content of the Nigerian economy, particularly at a time that the government is laying emphasis on diversification. Specifically, he explained that the housing exhibition was intended to direct the attention of the nation to values or benefits in the production, application or use and promotion of indigenous materials of all types. He said: “Our concern, among others, is how various resources like soils, timbers and other array of solid minerals that are available in the country can become materials for housing development”. He hinted that special days had been earmarked for professionals’ discussion till the fair lasted. According to Ogunleye, the fair would focus on encumbrances in the channels of manufacturers in turning the local resources into other products for construction

purpose and wealth creation. He said he was aware that various research institutions had carried out a lot of researches on the use of indigenous building materials, querying the extent to which outputs of these researches have been applied in Nigeria. At this stage of Nigeria’s development, he said the country should be a global leader in the export of various types of building materials, noting that the National Housing Policy of 2011 had urged federal, state and local governments to develop the means of promoting acceptability and use of local building materials. Vice Chairman of the committee, Mrs Abiola Williams, also advocated expansion and improvement in the manufacturing base for building materials production, as well as an efficient network for the nation to have an enhanced material production system. “There is also need to expand the capacities of existing industries that are involved in the production of building materials from sources like bricks, clay, concrete products, timber, glass, tiles and so on,” she said.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

AVIATION

FIRST QUARTER REVIEW

Air travel still safest form of travel

Dana’s MD 83 aircraft in flight

Travelling by road or sea is far more risky than travelling by air, WOLE SHADARE writes Risky venture It’s true that flying is not without risk: flying several hundred people tens of thousands of feet above the earth at close to the speed of sound in an environment subject to turbulence and low temperatures (-55°C) in a pressurised aluminium tube packed with fuel and potential ignition sources simply cannot be without risk. Fortunately, thanks to the superhuman efforts of those working at the daily grind of commercial aviation, flying is remarkably safe. Nigeria’s share of crashes The numerous crashes witnessed, be it the Dana, Sosoliso, Bellview, ADC, EAS, and many others around the globe make people to think twice about whether or not air travel is safe or not. The crashes increase the fear for people who are already afraid of flying and temporarily makes people who may not be phobic to be scared of flying. Nigeria witnessed her worst form of plane crashes between 2005 and 2012 where planes were falling off the sky, leading to passengers taking to road travel. They could not be convinced that there was serious oversight on most of the planes and airlines in the country until the appointment of a former Director-General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Dr. Harold Oluse-

gun Demuren, who sanitised the system. His effort paid off, culminating in the country passing the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Category One aviation status and other milestone achievements. Notwithstanding the measures you put in, accidents still happen even in climes where you have serious oversight. So, why did so many people take to driving in the aftermath of 9/11? The answer lies in what psychologists call “the illusion of control”. Let’s take the case of what happened in the United States in the aftermath of two aeroplanes colliding into the two towers of the World Trade Centre on 11 September 2001. Many Americans took to driving long distances instead of flying. Motorcycle tops transport risks By far and away the most risky form of transport is by motorcycle, which is more than 3, 000 times more deadly than flying. Travelling in a car or truck is about 100 times more dangerous, while taking the train is twice as deadly as flying. In 2001, there were 483 deaths among commercial airline passengers in the USA, about half of them on 9/11. Interestingly in 2002, there wasn’t a single one. And in 2003 and 2004 there were only 19 and11 fatalities respectively. This means that during these three years, a total of 30 airline passengers in America were killed in accidents. In the same period, however, 128,525 people died in US car accidents. Out of that, close to 1600 deaths could have been avoided if people had flown instead of deciding to drive. The simple explanation is

Travelling in a car or truck is about 100 times more dangerous, while taking the train is twice as deadly as flying

that, behind the wheel of your own automobile, it is natural to feel in control. Try telling drivers that they have no influence over the skills of other road users, the weather, the condition of the road, mechanical problems, or any other common causes of accidents – they will agree. But they still feel in control of their destiny when they drive. They can’t help it. Put them on a plane, and they think their life is in the hands of the airline pilot or, worse, a bunch of terrorists. In fact, in the case of the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, pilot suicide is also one of the theories being bandied around and that definitely adds to the illusion of control.

ages of the crash lead people to conclude that flying is risky. In case of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 there have been no images of the wreck till now, but there has been constant news coverage all over the world. What people don’t take into account is the fact that many aeroplanes make safe landing almost every minute. None of this makes for news, though. The thousands of airplanes, which arrive safely at their destination everyday hold no media interest. This isn’t news. So, even the most logical of us are led to believe that the chance of a passenger dying in an airplane accident is much, much higher than it really is.

Scary media role The media also plays a huge part in magnifying the illusion of control. Plane crashes are turned into video images of twisted wreckage and dead bodies, then beamed into every home on television screens, says an accident investigator. In a society with a free press and a great number of publications, the likelihood that bad things will happen can be overstated to the point where the public begins to think and act irrationally. However, despite these highprofile disasters and the media coverage around them, last year was one of the industry’s safest. According to Flightglobal’s report, last year’s global fatal accident rate of one per 2.38 million flights makes 2014 the safest year ever, following one accident per 1.91 million flights in 2013, one per 2.37 million in 2012, one per 1.4 million in 2011 and one per 1.26 million in 2010. The study stated that the im-

Silence on car crashes Also, car crashes rarely get talked about. Car crashes, on the other hand, rarely make the headlines. Smaller-scale road accidents occur in large numbers with horrifying regularity, killing hundreds and thousands of people each year worldwide. They also do not make headlines. And given that more air crashes make it to the news than car accidents, it is easier to recall air crashes and deem air travel to be riskier, but driving remains much more risky than flying. Experts said, “Even in countries that have been targets of intensive terror campaigns, such as Israel, the weekly number of casualties almost never came close to the number of traffic deaths”. As another example, in the energy sector far more workers are killed mining than are killed operating nuclear power plants. Yet because of the assoCONTINUED ON PAGE 30

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS | AVIATION

CO-OPERATION Air transport is key driver of Taraba State’s economic development

verland Airways has launched its city ticketing office in Jalingo, Taraba State. The city ticketing office, according to a statement from the airline, essentially will provide easy access for the purchase of Overland Airways tickets and for other enquiries. The airline operates thrice-weekly flights between Abuja and Jalingo. With the launch of this City Ticketing Office, the people of Zing, Jalingo, etc. can easily avail themselves of Overland Airways’ services without necessarily travelling to the airport, the statement added. The office, according to a statement, was commissioned by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Rebo Usman. The Commissioner of Works, Dr. Tafarki Eneme Agbadu and Galadima of Muri, District Head of Jalingo, Alhaji Lamido Abba Tukur presented goodwill messages on behalf of stakeholders and the community respectively. The Executive Director, Overland Airways, Mrs. Aduke Atiba gave the closing remarks, the statement added. To date, Overland Airways according to the statement, is Nigeria’s most consistent longest serving airline providing uninterrupted flights and opening up Nigeria’s remote economies over the last 13 years. “Overland Airways is also

Overland Airways partners Taraba

the only airline in Nigeria older than six years that is not taken over by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) because of debt burden”, the statement added. “With a robust economic base, Overland Airways assures Jalingo and Taraba residents and visitors of reliable, safe and comfortable air services, now brought closer home by the establishment of the City Ticketing Office in Jalingo.

ciation of civilian nuclear power with nuclear weapons, and because of the stigmatisation of nuclear power generation from the 1960s onwards — amplified by accidents such as Three Mile Island, Chernobyl and Fukushima and environmentalists’ media-savvy campaigns — many believe the opposite to be true. In the same way that a handful of nuclear accidents had an outsize influence on the perception of nuclear energy’s safety, so the loss of flights MH370, MH17, AH5017 and QZ8501 have influenced how safe people perceive commercial aviation to be. The numbers don’t lie Aviation analyst, Francis Ayigbe observed, “The 2014 Malaysian disasters have twisted perceptions of airline safety”. The subsequent loss of AirAsia flight QZ8501 in the last days of December will only have heightened those concerns. According to the Aviation Safety Network, of aircraft carrying more

“Development takes such deliberate plans and efforts to be achieved. At a time Nigeria’s economy needs pragmatic diversification from over-dependence on crude oil, States are now required to look inwards to transform their numerous resources. Taraba State is in the frontline of regions to change the trend in Nigeria. Overland Airways is committed to partner in the realization of the

economic, social, cultural and other potentials of Taraba State, even in harsh economic conditions as we have seen in the past weeks and months”. The carrier launched the first-ever scheduled commercial airline flights to Jalingo airport last December, thus opening the State to unprecedented economic development in tourism, agribusiness, small- and medium-scale industries.

Fly Dubai aircraft on the tarmac of an airport

Air travel still safest form of travel CO NTINUED FROM PAG E 29

Managing Director of Overland Airways, Capt. Edward Boyo said, “We commend the government and people of Taraba State for embracing air transport as a key driver of Taraba State’s economic development. This service is for Taraba people. And the present government of Darius Ishaku will be remembered today and by posterity because Overland Airways is here to stay.

than 14 passengers and excluding sabotage, hijacking, and military accidents, in 2014 there were 20 crashes accounting for 692 fatalities — one of the lowest accident rates on record, even if the number of casualties is up on recent years, the highest since 2010. Conclusion So why do we think the opposite? Roughly onethird of passengers are what the industry calls “nervous flyers”, which tend to assume the worst. The academics suggest that individuals either dampen or amplify risk signals. Some find the thought of not being in control unnerving, others are content to trust the unknown strangers — pilots, controllers, dispatchers, loaders, fuellers, engineers, regulators — who make it possible. Trust issues induce negativity. The tone of postdisaster newspaper headlines, especially those in many tabloids, border on alarmist. Such hyperbole is also capable of influencing some people.

Airline celebrates 30 years of operations to Sri Lanka

ne of world’s biggest airlines, Emirates celebrated its 30 years operations to Sri Lanka amid fanfare. On April 6, 1986, an Emirates B727-200 Flight EK800, according to a statement from the airline, departed Dubai Inter national Airport touching down in Colombo, Emirates’ fourth global destination. Thir ty years later, Emirates had logged 56 million miles, transported thousands of tonnes of cargo and continues to connect Sri Lanka to the world, with 34 flights a week to Dubai, Malé and Singapore. Wi t h ap p rox i m at e ly 12,000 seats and 780 tons of cargo car ried per week each way, Emirates’ service to Sri Lanka, according to the statement, has proven to be an indispensable resource for travellers, exporters and importers over the years. The airline has already announced it will increase capacity further with the addition of a fifth daily

flight between Colombo and Dubai from 1st August 2016. Emirates Senior Vice President, Commercial operations- West Asia and Indian Ocean, Ahmed Khoory said, “We would like to thank all our customers and industry partners in Sri Lanka for their longstanding suppor t over the years. We are proud to contribute to the country’s thriving tourism and trade industry, connecting Sri Lanka with more than 150 destinations across six continents.” He noted: “Over the past few decades, we introduced new products on the route and provided an award-winning in-flight and on ground experience to Sri Lankan travelers. “It’s been a remarkable jour ney and we look forward to of fering further choice and excellent value for money to our customers in Sri Lanka”. Emirates according to the statement, has recorded solid year-on-year growth in Sri Lanka over the years, carrying nearly

four million passengers on the route in the last two and half decades. Sri Lanka has also emerged as an impor tant cargo destination for the airline in the region, as Emirates SkyCargo continues to be a preferred carrier for the country’s exports. Jassim Saif, Vice President Cargo Commercial - West A s i a a n d S o u t h E a s t A s i a , n o t e d : “ We s t A s i a h a s a lw ay s b e e n an impor tant g rowth re gion for Sk yCargo. O ve r t h e p a s t 3 0 ye a r s, we’ve seen the route p e r fo r m ve r y we l l , w i t h i n c r e a s i n g vo l u m e s o f cargo carried out of Col o m b o t o impor tant m a rke t s i n E u r o p e a n d t h e Americas via our hub in Dubai. “ W h e n c o m b i n ed with the ef ficiency of one of t h e yo u n g e s t fl e e t s i n t h e s k i e s , u n r iv a l l e d g round-handling f acilities, and the very latest infor mation technology, Emirates SkyCargo is the ideal partner for Sri Lankan-based businesses as they look to boost trade”.

TUESDAY, april 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Interview Govt should end poly, varsity disparity –Bida Poly Rector

Education

Campus FCC, communities brainstorm on peaceful co-existence

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AAUA gate

Protesting UNILAG students

PROTESTS

Academic calendar at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) has been truncated following an order by the managements of the institutions to shut the universities over students’ protests.

Kayode Olanrewaju and Mojeed Alabi

he relative peace at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Lagos and Adekule Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), was last week disrupted following protests by the students. At the 54-year-old UNILAG, the students and the management of the university, led by its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rahman Bello had been at loggerheads over poor power and water supply, and the non-availability of sachet water for drinking on the campus. Irked by this development and the inability of the university management to provide, the students, led by the Students’ Union President, Muhammed Olaniyan had engaged the management in a battle of wit, leading to open confrontation between the students and security operatives on the campus. Following the crisis, which lasted over 72 hours, many of the

kayode olanrewaju Editor, education

kayode olanrewaju@ newtelegraphonline.com

Trapped UNILAG students scaling fence

In the throes of protests ●UNILAG, AAUA shut students, who were trapped had escaped by scaling the fence, having been compelled to take part in the protest by the union, which had locked the main gates into the university. However, what begun on the evening of Wednesday April 6, as a peaceful protest by the students degenerated the following day, as the irate students forcefully grounded academic and administrative activities on the campus. The students’ union, demanded among others on explanation from the management the sudden level of degeneration of the municipal facilities on campus and the poor welfare of the students, as well as the attendant looming epidemic due to unhygienic environment. The protesters, who had rebuffed all entreaties from some members of the management including the Dean of the Students’ Affairs, Prof. Tunde Babawale and the newly appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academics and Research, Prof. Toyin Ogundipe, New Telegraph gathered requested to see the vice-chancellor, insisting that it had been the character of the helmsman not to meet with the students whenever there are issues of urgent concern to be addressed. Similarly, these are not good times for the students of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), who were sent home forcefully following the indefinite closure of the institution as a result of last Friday protest over the death of a student. The students, a Sophomore at the Department of Economic Education, Faculty of Education, Ojo Afolabi Daniel, was said to have been involved in an accident involving two commercial motorcycles,

The ongoing examinations are also immediately suspended, while all students are to leave the campus and halls of residence immediately

outside the university campus. New Telegraph gathered that the student was rushed to a hospital at Oka, one of the host communities of the university, from where the university management took him to Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo. However, the student eventually died due to internal bleeding as a result of the injuries sustained in the accident Following the death of their colleague, the students allegedly trooped to the streets disrupting vehicular movement into and from the university, and along Ikare-Akungba Road, as well as destroyed the university gate and other school property. Infuriated by the students’ action and the level of destruction to the university facilities, the authorities of the university, named after the Second Republic Governor of the old Ondo State, the late Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, immediately announced the closure of the institution. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, who spoke through a phone call, described the development as unfortunate, saying it was the handiwork of hoodlums who used the situation to loot market stalls and destroying property in the community and the university. The vice-chancellor said the Director of the University Health Service had acted promptly by visiting the late student at the hospital, where it was discovered that his condition was critical, before transferring him to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo where there are adequate facilities. “The university has done what it could do to its students in such situation. If, truly the students

were sympathising the death of their colleague, would they take to the streets killing goats and cooking them, looting shops as well as destroying property within and outside the university,” he said. Ajibefun, who insisted that he could not say categorically when the students would be recalled or whether they will pay for the damaged properties, noted that a panel had been set up by the university to evaluate the extent of the damage, especially the university main gate that was pulled down by the protesting students. “The university is awaiting the report of the panel for it to take any action on the matter,” the vicechancellor said. Meanwhile, a statement by the Acting Registrar of the university, Mr. Sunday Ayeerun, said: “This followed the destruction of properties within and outside the university premises by some students over the death of a student, who was involved in an accident involving a commercial motorcycle outside the university campus on Friday April 8, 2016. “The ongoing examinations are also immediately suspended, while all students are to leave the campus and halls of residence immediately. Students would be informed when to resume for the completion of their on-going examination at a later date.” The management, who frowned at the action of the students, according to the statement, has raised a panel to look into the immediate and remote causes of the protest with a view to guiding against such occurrence in future. Speaking with New Telegraph, one of the UNILAG protesting students from the Department of Geography, who identified himself simply as Taiwo, lamented that the CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

TUESDAY, april 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

campus

Medical College research grants’ workshop raises hope iven the paucity of funds for G cutting-edge research, especially in the nation’s university system, the Ekiti State University (EKSU) College of Medicine has organised a two-day workshop on how to write research proposals that would attract grants. The workshop, according to the Provost of the College, Prof. Kehinde Oluwadiya was in line with the vision of the university on revenue generation drive through research, particularly, grant winning research proposals that would attract financial assistance from national and international donors. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Oye Bandele, who declared the workshop open, noted that the talk shop would empower participants to seek grants from organisations in the Unites States, United Kingdom and other countries of the world. He commended the provost of the college and his management team for keying into the vision of the university, particularly by organising the workshop and in the area of revenue generation. Bandele, who assured members of the university community that his administration would support any endeavour that would sustain and increase the revenue base of the institution, stressed that the research grant writing workshop would accelerate access to funding from international donors and agencies. Meanwhile, one of the resource persons and a University of Ibadan (UI) don, Dr. Eme Owoaje, noted that members of academic staff could generate funds for universities through purposeful research proposals.

Principal officers of the institutions and the traditional rulers and leaders of various communities during the peace parley.

FCC, communities brainstorm on peaceful co-existence Emeka Onwudinjo UNIZIK

or one day, last week, key stakeholders in federal higher institutions and the management of Federal Character Commission (FCC) brainstormed on how to ensure peaceful co-existence with the institutions’ host communities. The stakeholders at the sensitisation meeting between the management and host communities of all federal institutions in the old Aguata Division of Anambra State was part of moves to end the protracted violence and crises in the institutions and their host communities. With the theme: “Location of Higher Institutions in Nigerian

Community and Application of Federal Character Principle,” participants resolved to abide by the guidelines establishing the institutions in the area. The meeting came on the heels of what they described as the recent senseless killings at the Federal College of Education (Technical) Umunze. Declaring open the town hall meeting at Orumba North Secretariat, Ajalli, the state governor, Willie Obiano, noted that the quota system has helped the federal institutions to grow as it provides guidelines and principles which prepared the grounds for justice and fair play in the running of the institutions. The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Nkem Okeke, noted that federal character and its proper implementation make the country an ideal

nation, adding that the fact that an institution is located in an area should not mean that all members of staff of that institution should come from the area. “Federal character is a constitutional matter that runs from the federal to the states and the local government levels,” he argued. While reiterating that violence and crisis create tension in the state, with particular reference to what he described as senseless killings in the college, the governor called for peace and harmony, saying the state government is making frantic efforts to provide security in the state. Participants at the meeting were heads of the two federal institutions in the area (the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Prof. Godwin Onu, and Provost of the Federal College of Educa-

IMSU holds championship for debaters

Ekene Ahaneku IMSU

he curtains have been lowered on the second Internal League Debate Championship organised by the Imo State University (IMSU) Debating Union, Owerri, Imo State in preparation ahead of this year’s national and international tournaments. The championship, which took place during the Easter celebration and the final stage at the College of Medicine Building, was facilitated by the union executives to ascertain the level of development of the old members, train new debaters and as well select debaters who will represent the university at national and international tournaments in the year. The Chief Adjudicating Panel and host of other Judges are alumni members of the union, who represented the union and university

in the past championships. Through the tournament the new debaters were exposed to a new range of experience and fierce nature of a tournament. The tournament, which was a replica of the British Parliamentary Debate style, featured 12 teams of 24 speakers and 10 judges, including the Chief Training Officer of the union Ogbuokiri Ugochukwu, as well as other students from institutions such as the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Debating Club. The league had eight preliminary rounds with the final round tagged the blind round, where the results were not announced in order to keep the debaters in suspense of knowing who reached the finals. For winning a round in the tournament, a team gets three points, the second gets two points, while the third gets one point and fourth gets no point.

Cross-section of the matriculating students

Provost cautions students against exam malpractice, drug abuse Oladele Oge UNN

he Provost of College of Education, Nsukka, Dr. Okwudili Nwosu, has cautioned the students admitted into the college to shun examination malpractice and drug abuse, warning that any student or group of students caught involving in any form of vices would be appropriately sanctioned. According to him, the college has zero tolerance for examination malpractice, drug abuse and other negative activities that

could jeopardize the smooth running of the institution. The provost, who stressed that the authorities of the institution would not tolerate any act of demeanor that might erode the dignity and integrity of the college, gave this admonition at the ninth matriculation ceremony of the college. Nwosu pointed out that the college would not hesitate to dismiss any student that belong to any form of clandestine association, especially cultism, adding that such student will be handed over to the police for prosecution. The provost stressed: “You

tion (Technical), Umunze, Prof. Josephat Ogbuagu), traditional rulers and leadership of the various town unions, among other stakeholders. The Chairman of Federal Character Commission (FCC), Dr. Shettima Barkar Abah regretted that the issue of recruitment, which often led to crises between the management and the community, should not have arisen since there were laid down guidelines on employment. Abba, who was represented by the Commissioner, representing Ekiti State in FCC, Mr. Bunmi Ojo warned that the lopsidedness observed in the staff composition of some federal institutions, would no longer be tolerated, adding that the chief executives of defaulting institutions would be held liable and accountable for any anomaly.

must shun membership of all forms of clandestine associations because the college has zero tolerance for cultism and other vices such as examination malpractice, protests, drug abuse and other violent activities that could truncate your education pursuit in the college. “Those of you, who joined or belonged to cult groups before your admission into the college should voluntarily disassociate yourselves from such cult groups because anyone caught in the act will be expelled and handed over to the police for prosecution.” According to Nwosu, since the world has become technology village, the management of the college has provided a modern cyber café, e-library and an ultramodern campus-wide internet network in the two campuses of the college at the Old Army Barracks and Ibagwa-Ani permanent site in Nsukka campuses. He said the facilities are for students in the Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) and Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PDE) to perform all their activities online, including registration of courses, adding that the college has been positioned to complete favourably with its contemporaries anywhere in the world.

TUESDAY, april 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Dr. Abubakar Abdul Dzukogi, the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, in this interview with DAN ATORI, called on the Federal Government to end the dichotomy between university degrees and the Higher National Diploma (HND). He also speaks on the need for more emphasis on skills acquisition rather than on certificate or qualifications The polytechnic for the past eight years had not held its convocation, what was responsible for this? It is true that the polytechnic had not held its convocation for the past eight years. I want to say here that it was due to lack or insufficient funds at our disposal. The problem basically was funding, and each time we budgeted for it, we ended up not getting anything. That is why we have to shelve the idea till now. That is one of the reasons why we had to make this convocation low keyed and not elaborate as it should have been. On a personal note, when I assumed office as the Rector, despite the lean resources, I insisted that we should hold the convocation for our graduates even in the face of the limited resources rather than allowing the ceremony to pile up. It will interest you to hear that from now henceforth, I have made it a policy thrust that the polytechnic will organise its convocation every year. Many higher institutions are complaining about the Treasury Single Account (TSA) introduced by the Federal Government that the policy is frustrating and preventing them from accessing funds. What is your view on this and how has the polytechnic been able to function? The Treasury Single Account does not prevent the institutions or anyone from having access to their funds, the only thing is that it makes the institutions more accountable. The advantage of TSA is that if you are moving money from one place to another or from one account to another, other people will be aware of such movement or lodgments. The other advantage is that as institutions, we no longer have our money in the commercial banks, but with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Specifically, we now have our Internally Generated Revenue domiciling

rector’s forum | education

Govt should end poly, varsity disparity –Rector in the Central Bank of Nigeria. As long as there is genuine explanation why the institutions have to move the funds, there is no problem with TSA. However, we have to manage what is available and what is being given to us, taking into consideration that there are other sectors competing for the government’s limited resources.

My position is that there shouldn’t have been any difference in whatever form

Much has been said about the poly-

Minister restates FG’s commitment to TVET orried by the rising cases of youth unemployment in the country, the Federal Government has spoken of plans to focus more attention to Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET), to tackle youth unemployment in the country. According to the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, who gave the hint during the 16th combined convocation ceremony of the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, noted that this had become expedient as a result of the dwindling employment in the formal sector of the economy. He said fresh attention needed to be focused on the informal sector which has become employment or self-employment destination of

wait till next year when we shall be celebrating the 40th anniversary and Foundation Day of the institution. Let me also add here that we are not taking such decision because of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and I want to say that despite the TSA policy, the convocation ceremony will be elaborate.

There is this confusion that a student may study one course for the National Diploma (ND) and study a different course in the Higher National Diploma (HND). How would you respond to this? Yes. It is quite possible. We have a special programme for that, and this is being referred to as the Transition or Abridged Programme, but the courses have to be inter-related. For instance, a student who studied Mass Communication; the same student cannot go ahead to study Accountancy. The advantage is that the one-year programme will award the student the National Diploma Certificate in the course he or she studied. How is the management addressing the dearth of hostel facilities confronting the institution? Of course, the management is not happy with this and it is doing everything within its powers to engage the private sector to come in, so as to provide comfort for our students on campus. Be that as it may, the non-availability of hostel accommodation for the students is a serious matter when it comes to the issue of security. You will agree with me that it is not advisable to allow the students to live off campus, especially at this period of security challenge in the country. However, some organisations have approached the polytechnic authority on how to come in and we are still talking with them. I can categorically say here that we will soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with them on how to build hostels on campus on the basis of Build-Operate-and Transfer, under the Public-PrivatePartnership (PPP) arrangement.

school leavers in the country. The minister, who doubles as the Visitor to the Federal Polytechnics, argued that “job creation in the formal sector of the economy is not growing in proportion to the increasing population, saying the Federal Government has therefore refocused the minds of trainees of TVET institutions towards the possibilities of going into self-employment as a viable alternative to insufficient formal sector employment. Adamu, who spoke through the Director of Tertiary Education in the ministry, Hajiya Hindatu Abdulahhi praised the polytechnic for what he described as “its landmark innovations in Entrepreneurial Studies” and urged the institution not to rest on its oars.

technic’s FM Radio Station and when is it going to take off? Let me assure you that machinery had been put in motion to ensure that next year by the grace of God the radio station will take off. One interesting thing is that by next year, we will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of the polytechnic, an anniversary that is somehow very important to us, as an institution. Towards this end, we are working round the clock to ensure that by then, all things being equal, the radio station should be operational on a full scale. Looking at those who have intervened or contributed in one way or the other to the development of the polytechnic, or the society in particular, is the institution planning to confer its Honorary Award on any Nigerian during the forthcoming convocation? I want to quickly state here that for the forthcoming 14th convocation ceremony of the polytechnic, the authority has no plan to bestow or honour any one with its fellowship. No, we are not giving anyone any award or fellowship this time. What we are planning is that we will

The continued disparity between graduates of university and polytechnic system has been a source of concern to stakeholders. What is your take on this? By and large, let me emphasise here that the dichotomy is not supposed to be there in the first instance. In the Western world, which we are copying their education system, the graduates of the polytechnic sector are the ones moving the economy forward because of their training and skilled orientation. To answer your question affirmatively, I will say the dichotomy is basically unnecessary. More importantly, I am sure that very soon, particularly with the high unemployment rate confronting the country, the reality will dawn on the policy makers, and all of us, as Nigerians. The emphasis should be on the performance and skill application, which is the polytechnic sector offers and not on certificate or qualifications. I can attest to the fact that with my interaction with students from universities and polytechnics, those from the polytechnics perform better than their counterparts from the universities in terms of skill application. The issue is not cramming of notes, but the ability to perform and acquisition of hands-on skills. Meanwhile, the hope is not totally lost, but I want to appeal to the government and employers of labour to do something tangible by correcting the anomaly in the system, by according the polytechnic graduates their right of place in the scheme of national development. My position is that there shouldn’t have been any difference in whatever form; everyone should be given a fair playing ground in terms of career progression and job opportunities.

Gregory varsity’s honour for late Justice Izima

he management of Gregory University, Uturu in Abia State, has honoured the late Justice Cyprain Izima for the supportive role he played during the formative phase of the budding private university. Towards this end, the university has named the institution’s Board of Trustees and Governing Council Chamber after the renowned jurist. The Chancellor and Proprietor of the university, Dr. Gregory Ibe, while performing the naming of the building complex after him,

praised the unique and distinguishing lifestyle of the late legal luminary, whom he said epitomised the virtues of honesty, morality and integrity in the conduct of his legal profession. While recalling the supportive role played by the late jurist during the formative years of the private university, Ibe enjoined his children to sustain the sterling qualities and numerous legacies of their father. The Registrar, Dr. Austin Orisakwe, in his welcome address, informed the gathering that the late High Court Judge, apart from functioning

as the pioneer Chancellor of the Anglican Diocese of AbaNgwa North, had the rare honour of administering the statutory oath of office on the premiere Board of Trustees and Governing Council of the university. Responding on behalf of the Justice Izima family, his elder son, Mr. Obinna Izima, an engineer, expressed gratitude to the Chancellor of the university (Ibe) and the entire Gregory University family for the honour bestowed on their family, even as they promised to uphold the values and principles their late father lived for.

education

TUESDAY, april 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Challenges beyond our control, say VCs

C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 1

plight of the students on campus in the past days had been hellish. He argued: “Whenever we go to canteen to eat, there is no water to drink. We were forced to buy soft drinks, which could not quench thirst like water. But, the fact is that how many of us could afford soft drinks every time we eat or need to drink water? “The only thing we heard from the university management is the claim that power is rationed on campus. But, let us ask the management that how many minutes of power do they ration because once it is flashed, before a student could plug his or her phone, the light is gone again. We need to know why we are being subjected to such hardship.” According to the students’ union president, though the students are not unaware of the challenges of fuel scarcity and poor power supply facing the country, the question is that why is the university, which has provision and spaces for four generating plants, has only two? While blaming the management for the plight of the students, the student leader alleged that the scarcity of drinking water was artificial “because it is only the university that produces water for consumption on campus, but which does not have the capacity to produce adequate water for the need of the entire UNILAG community.” On whether the students had dialogued with the management on how to avoid this situation, Olaniyan added: “We have met the management and suggested ways to address this problem, especially when it occurred that the management could not meet the water needs of the university. “Categorically, we told them if the university is in doubt of the quality of water other producers would bring to the campus, that they management could give them its template and subject them to scrutiny, rather than subjecting the students and other members of the university community to this level of hardship. “We equally made representation concerning students’ hostels and we were informed by the management that two of the hostels were already undergoing renovation and that by February 27, one of the hostels, Sodeinde Hall, will be opened to students, but this is April, the hall is still not opened and there is no explanation from anyone.”

wo lecturers at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Ondo State, have won grants of about N10 million to carry out relevant research to advance the socio-economic development of the country. Under the grants, Alexander von Humboldt (AvH) Foundation of Germany awarded 25,000, (N8.5million) to Prof. Ganiyu Oboh of the Department of Biochemistry to host the Humboldt Kolleg (Conference) between February 12 and 16, 2017.

Ajibefun

Lamenting the students’ predicaments due to lack of water and electricity supply to the campus, a student, who craved anonymity, explained that they were already preparing for their First Semester examination, regretting that studying under such harsh condition could lead to mass failure. The students said: “By April 18, we would be writing the General Studies (GNS) papers and by May 2, the main examinations would have commenced. How do you prepare for examination in this kind of situation, yet the management is doing as if everything was alright.” According to the students, when spirited attempts made to ensure that the vice-chancellor interfaced with them failed, the union was said to have mobilised other students from their

Bello

various hostels, who turned the campus streets to football pitches, table tennis courts and other games, while others who did not take part in the games, resorted to playing music and dancing at the ground floor of the university’s Senate Building. However, when the management realised that rather than being exhausted, the students were gaining more sympathy in their agitation, it quickly summoned an emergency Senate meeting to suggest possible solutions to the raging crisis. But, the situation took another dimension on Thursday morning, when the university Senate concluded plans to shut down the institution and requested the students to vacate the campus latest by 10am on Friday. Meanwhile, the spokesman

for the university had in a statement issued on Friday morning blamed the action of the Senate on the prevailing nationwide fuel scarcity and its attendant hardship being experienced in the country and Lagos in particular. The statement, issued by the Deputy Registrar (Information), Mr. Toyin Adebule, entitled: “Immediate Closure of the University of Lagos, however read in part: “The Senate of the university at an emergency meeting held on Thursday April 7, considered the situation on campus occasioned by the ongoing agitation of the students’ body over poor electricity and water supply in the community, and the difficulties faced by the large number of students living off-campus to attend classes as a result of fuel crisis. The Senate

President, Civil Liberties Organisation, Igho Akeregha (left) and Head, CLO’s Legal unit, Princewill Akpakpan during a media briefing demanding for the release of white paper on panel of enquiry to investigate 13 higher institutions in the country.

FUTA dons win N10m research grants

The conference with the theme: “Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals: Translating the Knowledge of Food Bioactive Compounds to Effective Health Care Delivery in Developing World,” is expected to draw researchers from across the country. As part of the incentives, the Foundation will cover travel expenses for two researchers from Germany to participate in the

Kolleg. According to the Foundation, participants, who are otherwise described as “Humboldtians” are encouraged to key into the aim of the Foundation, which is to organise Humboldt Kollegs in many countries as possible at intervals, while also wishing Oboh success in his efforts. Similarly, Dr. Ayokunle Ademosun of the Department of Biochemistry was recently

awarded the African-German Network of Excellence in Science (AGNES) Grant for Junior Researchers 2015. The award, valued at 1,000 (about N380,000) is also sponsored by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AvH) and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). The award also comes with the possibility of Ademosun seeking a more prestigious postdoctoral fellowship and the op-

noted that the problem of poor municipal service is a national issue which both state and federal government are addressing.” To forestall further breakdown of law and order, the Senate resolved to suspend all academic activities with immediate effect, and that the status quo shall remain until the challenge with municipal services improve. Angered by the Senate’s order to shut the institution, the students were adamant, claiming that apart from the fact that the directive to vacate the campus was rather too short, they expected the Vice-Chancellor to show some modicum of respect by appearing before the students in order to offer explanations for the prevailing frustration on campus. Specifically, the students’ union in a statement described the closure of the university as unfortunate and uncalled for, saying despite priding itself as the university of first choice, the management could not manage an issue as simple as they had presented. The union said: “The vicechancellor has demonstrated his insouciance towards the welfare of the students. Despite his presence on campus today, he has been elusive by refusing to avail the students of an audience. In light of this public display of irresponsibility, the union wishes to state that: it is an inhumane move with a dastardly motive to order the students to vacate the university community. This is because it has gotten to the notice of the union that some hoodlums were lurking around the university gates to harass and waylay students who are leaving the campus. “Besides, students, who live in far distant have confessed that they do not have transport fare to transport them home. This is understandable as the notice for vacation just got to students this morning at about 6:30am, leaving us with less than four hours to vacate the campus.” With this, the union implored the students to stay on campus in order not to fall victims of attacks by the hoodlums, who already were everywhere awaiting the students to leave the campus. “The union is on top of the situation,” the student leader insisted, directing all students to remain on campus and in their hostels for further information from the union. portunity of joining the ranks of AGNES fellows and contributing to the scientific welfare of the African continent. In his congratulatory message to the beneficiaries, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebiyi Daramola said they have achieved a great feat by attracting the support of the Foundation, describing the feats as further testimony to the excellence and diligence, which he said, have become the hallmarks of members of faculty and students of the university.

public discourse | education

TUESDAY, april 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Help for best student-turned hair stylist-trainee

NUC proposing 11 years for Medical training

Arogundade: Problem beyond length of training Prof. Rasheed Arogundade is the immediate past President of the National Postgraduate Medical College, Lagos

Bashirat

Mojeed Alabi

or a former best student in a secondary school in Ogun State, Bashirat Usman, who is now an apprentice hairdresser following her parents’ socio-economic background, the hope to acquire higher education and fulfill her dream in life is not lost. Inspired by her potential, some well-meaning and spirited individuals have expressed readiness to support her educational pursuit. The new development is as a result of an earlier report on the unfortunate metamorphoses of Usman, a former student of Scholars Universal Secondary School, Ota in Ogun State from being the pride of her school, to an apprehentice. The other dream of the hair stylist-trainee, to graduate upon completion of her training, seems to be a forlorn because she still owes training fees. New Telegraph had on Thursday March 24, published a report on Bashirat Usman, entitled: “From best student to hair stylist-trainee.” It is a graphic account of how the secondary school leaver with excellent performance in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) had her hope to proceed to a university dashed because her parents are poor. As a result of her predicament, the 19-year-old girl, whose mother hawks granulated sugar and father, a furniture maker, was already losing hope of becoming a scholar, with the desire to contribute meaningfully to national growth and development. However, since the publication, some individuals, who have called our Correspondent, have expressed interest not only to contribute financially to Usman’s academic growth, but to also help guide her path to success. One of them, a Nigerian based in London, who craved anonymity, said he was unhappy that many brilliant Nigerian children in similar shoes have been allowed to waste away. The man, who was said to have surfed the net to secure the contact of the Correspondent, said no nation could rise above the potential of its youths, pledging to contribute significantly to ensure that the 19-year-old

girl fulfills her academic dream. “I feel sad when I read reports like this from Nigeria. What you have done is simply in the class of charity in the United Kingdom (UK), and I hope many people can see this and intervene. It is quite unfortunate that many Nigerians who looted the treasury do not even consider investing in things like this,” he said. He has since paid N30,000 into her elder sister’s Bank Account to augment the family rent, having been served quit notice by their landlord. He also pledged to contribute to her education. Meanwhile, another Nigerian, who is based in the Republic of Ireland, has also expressed his readiness to support the campaign to return Usman to school. He said: “Whatever we do is not for publicity, but we shall try to make our contribution.” There are others like Emmanuel Abimbola and Godfrey Metuanghan who have promised to support Bashirat’s educational pursuit. Meanwhile, Usman’s former teacher and founder of Scholars Universal Secondary School, Mr. Timothy Alonge expressed the desire to ensure that the best is given to the student. This is even as it has been suggested that a dedicated account be opened for her with about three signatories so that the money is not diverted. “I am happy that the newspaper’s effort is yielding results. It has always been our desire to groom these students to the pinnacle of their career and when Usman’s situation was getting out of hand, we were really sad. I think she can smile again now,” Alonge said. He said the school also produced the first runner-up at the Junior Category of the 2015 edition of the Cowbellpedia Mathematics Quiz Competition with its pupil, Taiwo Ajoke, winning a trophy, an IPAD and a cash prize of N500,000. “We have helped her to fix the money in a bank account for her education. Others, who also won prizes including Feyikemi Fatumbi and Jane Ogbu, who now have their prize monies in fixed accounts as well. I am sure if Usman can be helped, she will do this nation proud,” Alonge added.

ell, we have heard everything, but we feel that is not the solution to the problem. We need to know the flaws of the cur rent programme before we think of increasing the number of years of training. We know that in the United States you must have a First Degree before you can enroll for medical programme, but the programme we run here is also what I went through in Romania. Of course, the difference between there and here is that there are facilities for training. We did not expe-

rience any loss of teaching and practical hours. That is unlike here where the facilities are down and we are confronted with incessant strikes. Also, the process of admission here is faulty. Many of our students being admitted now should not have come in ordinarily because they are just not mature and cannot cope with such rigorous studies. Those of them that we train when we ask them questions they do not know basic things. But, the truth is that increasing the length of training does not solve the problem. Is it not the same six-year programme that present lecturers went

through and they are competing globally? So, the major challenges are the facilities. For instance, in Anatomy, our students could no longer do dissections again because there are no cadavers. No one wants to leave his or her dead bodies for training again. Here the few available cadavers are for the teachers, whereas where I trained each group of 10 students had cadaver to itself and we dissect from head to toe without any lecturer. So, we must address the challenges of facilities, staff welfare and rejig our admission processes to get the best out of the system.

Oke: Current policy hasn’t failed us Prof. David Adewale Oke is the Chief Medical Director of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja

am yet to fathom the reason for the thoughts about the new policy because the policy we have run for many decades have not failed us yet. We produce medical graduates

every year and the quality has continued to be appreciated on the global scene because they excel even among their peers in the developed nations. The challenge with our

system is not about the policy, but about the facilities. Expose our students to modern facilities in the world, they will prove their competence. So, rather than prolonging the years of training, we must focus on providing necessary tools and avoid anything that could affect the free flow of studies and training.

Nasir: No basis for changing the status quo Dr. Sola Nasir is the Chairman, Lagos Zone of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU)

think the number of years to be spent on a programme is actually within the jurisdiction of the Senate of a university. I am not saying that other institutions cannot have some guiding policies on the training. But, I think the number of years should be determined by the programme the university is running as approved by the Senate and Governing Council. On this proposal, if the National Universi-

Mr. Joshua Suleiman is the Head of Media and Public Relations Unit at the Babcock University, IlishaRemo, Ogun State.

hen we started medical programme at Babcock University, IlisanRemo, Ogun State it was

ties Commission (NUC) is talking about the level of degeneration in the system, it is just a confirmation of ASUU’s position all along. You cannot build something on nothing. If the facilities are not improved and staff welfare are not prioritised even if students spent 50 years on a programme, it won’t change anything. That is why government must consider revisiting ASUU’s proposal on the reform of the institutions.

Medicine is not peculiar to Nigeria, it is a global programme. In some other parts of the world they even spend less number of years than we do here, but that has not made their medical personnel less qualified than ours. I think it is not about the length of training, but the quality of training the students are exposed to.

Suleiman: NUC once advised us against running American system our policy to accommodate only candidates with First Degree in related fields, but after the first year, the National Universities Commission said we were being unfair to those candidates who would be willing to come in through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Ex-

amination (UTME). So, we have since converted to the normal sixyear programme and I do not think we are losing anything. It is about facilities and the quality of students and I do not believe we are lacking any of the two in our university

education

TUESDAY, april 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Olashore School restates commitment to quality, leadership education Kayode Olanrewaju

wners, teachers and students of Olashore International School, Iloko, Ijesha, Osun State, last week, rolled out the drums to mark the Founders’ Day of the private school, and 22nd years of delivery of qualitative education. The week-long anniversary, which featured various activities, took place at the Oba Okunade Sijuwade Hall of the school, in Iloko-Ijesha, Osun state. The guest speaker and the Chairman, Board of Directors, Guaranty Trust Bank, Mrs. Osaretin Demuren, lauded the management for sustaining the legacies of the founder of the school, the late Oba Oladele Olashore, the Aloko of Iloko-Ijesha, whose contributions to the development of qualitative education propelled the establishment of the school 22 years ago. She said part of the motive of the day was to provide a platform for the parents to

share their experience and ideas that could be translated into reality with us. Mrs. Demuren, therefore, advised the students to make their parents proud given the investment of their parents and guardians on their education in order to become useful citizens who will contribute meaningfully to national development, saying they could only do this through hard work and dedication to their studies. Meanwhile, the Chairman, Board of Governors of the school, Prince Bimbo Olashore, explained that the Day offered the platform to appraise the values on which the school stands, with a view to keeping faith with the dream and aspirations of the founder. According to him, “Olashore Founders’ Day is a day set aside to honour the founder of the school, Oba Oladele Olashore. It is also a day we use to reassess the values on which the school was built and look into the philosophy behind the school so as to

move it forward. The school, he noted that is in the fore-front of providing quality education, according to him, is being positioned to deliver education that would be comparable in the world. On the quality of the school, he said: “We teach our students the 21st Century leadership education in order to equip them with relevant skills that will prepare them for the future.” In view of this, Bimbo expressed optimism that parents will better appreciate the international education offered by the school to enroll their children and wards rather than looking for school outside the country. He pointed out that the ‘Unique Selling Preposition’ of the school are quality education, and high academic standard, in which it is building all-round and total students by engaging them in activities such as drama, music and sports, among others. “We also work on values of leadership, citizenship, honesty and the likes.”

Vice-Chancellor, NOUN, Prof. Abdalla Adamu (middle) with other principal officers of the university during the institutiton’s matriculation ceremony

Proprietor restates relevance of sports to child’s development Ezekiel Adesawe

he Director of De Beautiful Beginning School, Magodo, Lagos, Mrs. Olubukola Ogunleye, has reiterated the pivotal role of sporting activities in the all-round development and growth of the child. According to her, among the numerous benefits of sports to students’ psychomotor development, is that sporting activities equip students with the spirit of team work towards achieving a common goal. Mrs. Ogunleye further explained that the aspect of sporting activities which inculcate in the students team work spirit, centred on the virtues of trust and responsibility, which consequently assists them to deal with success and failure in life. The Director, who disclosed this, while addressing the guests during the Second Inter-House Sports Day of

the school ,which took place at Grange School, GRA, Ikeja, stressed: “The importance of sports to health cannot be over emphasised but there are other benefits such as team work, which teaches students to work together to achieve a common goal.” Mrs. Ogunleye added: “Sports is also about trust, responsibility and about dealing with successes and failures. Another important part of sports is the ability to make people have the sense of belonging and to serve as source of income.” On her part, the DirectorGeneral, Office of Education Quality Assurance, Ministry of Education, Lagos State, Mrs. Ronke Soyombo described sport as one of the major activities that contribute significantly to the development of students in all ramifications. According to Soyombo, who was represented by Mrs.

Adeyinka Adeniyi, an official of the ministry, “the inclusion of sporting activities in the school curriculum cannot be over emphasised because it goes a long way in contributing to the overall development of the child.” “Sporting activities is also part of learning because it helps in the development of the child, and therefore, education is not just about academics, but it also includes sporting activities,” she added. The director-general further explained: “Lagos State has and will continue to formulate and implement policies and programmes aimed at the total development of the child, especially in the area of physical and sporting activities. Let me assure you that the state government will continue to support efforts that aimed at improving the quality of education in our schools both in public and private institutions.”

EDUPEACE

with Mahfouz A. Adedimeji (08066372516, sms only)  Dr Adedimeji is a Senior Lecturer and Director, Centre

for Peace and Strategic Studies, Unilorin

Seven success secrets

here is no controversy about the goal of every human endeavour, it is to attain success. Everyone wants to be successful in school, in business, in politics, and ultimately in life. The overarching motivation behind our toils is to be successful. Everybody wants success in life; nobody wants failure. However, what constitutes success varies from one person to another. Ask an average Nigerian, to be successful is to make a good grade, get a good job, have a good spouse, live in a good apartment, own good cars – everything good. To many people, being successful is being famous, rich and powerful. It is the crave for success that leads some people into crime. It is normal for students to dream big and aim high. But it is important that they understand what success actually stands for in order not to derail. I just saw a clip on how the quest to be “successful” led some young Nigerians to an Asian country where they ended up in the hangman’s noose. Bill Cosby was said to have remarked that he did not know the secret of success but the secret of failure was trying to please everybody. Yet, the secrets of success can be found in success itself. Therefore, we can say S.U.C.C.E.S.S. entails seven things or secrets, each represented by a letter. The first success secret is Sincerity of intention. You want to be rich – for what reason? Is it to help the needy, assist the poor, and empower the people or to contribute to human development? Is it to oppress others, exert revenge and boast to the world you have “arrived”? Your actions are judged by your intention. To be successful, be sincere. Then comes the second letter, “U”, which represents Understanding the purpose of life. The purpose of life is to serve – God and humanity. This understanding would make one appreciate that success is service to others. Just as we have many students in school without knowing the purpose of their education, many people live today without understanding the purpose of life. This is unfortunate. The third letter represents Contentment. Without contentment, one is prone to a life of worry, anxiety and sadness. The principle here is to put in one’s best in every endeavour and be contended with one’s portion. Not everyone will own a private jet, for example. As Rajinikanth once said, “Whether you have a Maruti or a BMW, the road remains the same. Whether you travel economy or business class, the destination doesn’t change. Whether you have a Titan or a Rolex, the time is the same. Whether you have an Apple Samsung or a Lava, people who call you remain the same. There is nothing wrong

A student who wants to succeed in life must begin by excelling in his studies dreaming a luxurious life. What needs to be taken care of is to not let the need become greed. This is because needs could always be met but greed can never be fulfilled.” The fourth letter stands for Consciousness of God. This consciousness manifests in character. It is character that clears the way for those that have it. It is character that makes one to pick the petal and drop the metal in every situation. Good character engenders consciousness of God; bad character entails closeness to the devil. The fifth letter is Excellence. You have to excel to succeed. A student who wants to succeed in life must begin by excelling in his studies. The same thing is applicable to an artisan. To succeed, he must be excellent in his craft such that people would seek him. Even if good grades do not automatically lead to success in life, they are closer to success than bad grades. Besides, success is a function of Sacrifice. All successful people sacrifice something to be where they are. To be a successful student has a cost and that is to avoid distractions. To be a successful leader, you will not be thinking about your long throat and your immediate family, you will be thinking about people. Lastly, as no success is achieved on a platter of gold, anyone who wants success must embrace Seriousness, which is the secret of the last letter. If you are not serious in anything you do, you will not succeed in it. That is why in all matters, seriousness is key. Whether in the micro world of the school or the macro world of the society, unlocking the secrets of success is our responsibility. When one works with the secret, one’s success is guaranteed. If the success does not come immediately, it is definitely deferred till the best time.

Re: Be eagle, not duck; soar, don’t quack

orry can’t help but make someone be in one spot with no result. In a competitive world, solutions to problems should be paramount to someone that wants to survive. Thinking beyond the present can also help someone to become an eagle in a chosen career or trade. –Aina Akindele Oyebanji, Ketu, Lagos State.

BUSINESS |Money Line

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Wema Bank to seek approval for acquisition talks COMBINATION Lender to meet shareholders on May 5 Stories by Tony Chukwunyem

ema Bank Plc announced yesterday that it is to seek shareholders’ approval to commence acquisition or merger talks with a rival and also to raise bonds or preference shares. The bank said in a notice that it will hold a meeting of shareholders on May 5. The mid tier lender had last November obtained a final ap-

proval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to convert its banking license from a regional bank to a national lender. In a statement at the time, the bank’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Segun Oloketuyi, said: “This approval represents a milestone for the bank in the delivery of its Project LEAP commitments. Six years ago, we took a decision to refocus the bank’s operations on its areas of strength and build a sustainable institution”. Oloketuyi said the new licence had created opportunities to scale up growth, helping the lender to strategically select its business locations across the country with focus on areas where return on investment will be maximized, and share-

holders’ value enhanced over the medium to long term. He said, “To ensure that this approval is leveraged appropriately, we are already in the process of raising $100 million in Tier 2 capital and would commence a Tier 1 capital raise in the first quarter of 2016. This will further position the bank to pursue its growth strategy. The Bank remains on course in its turnaround programme as evidenced by its robust balance sheet and sustained profitability, which would be maintained through its national authorisation.” It will be recalled that the Managing Director, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Yemi Adeola, had said late last year that he envisaged possible shrinking

Economic headwinds’ll boost loan demand – World Bank

he World Bank said yesterday it expects its non-market rate lending to top $43 billion in the current fiscal year, as developing countries face economic headwinds, bringing its total for the past four years to more than $150 billion. The multilateral lender said its International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and International Development Association (IDA) divisions are on pace to exceed the combined $42.4 billion reached in the fiscal year ended July 1, 2015. IBRD lending in fiscal 2016 will exceed $25 billion, com-

pared with $23.5 billion in fiscal 2015. A decade ago, the IBRD lent about $14 billion, but peaked at $44 billion in fiscal 2010, as the financial crisis stoked demand from middleincome countries. “We are in a global economy where growth is expected to remain weak, so it is critically important that the World Bank play our traditional role of helping developing countries accelerate growth,” World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim said in a statement. Last February, the World Bank signed a deal with Peru for $2.5 billion in credit lines to help the Andean copper and gold ex-

porter cope with lower global commodity prices and budget pressures. The bank is also in talks with oil exporter Nigeria on loans tied to policy reforms. Kim said World Bank lending was “highly complementary” to the International Monetary Fund’s role as the main international crisis lender. “The use of these types of loans are important because the Bank is basically signaling to the financial markets that a country’s actions are technically solid, the country will follow through on these commitments and the reforms will help and not hurt the poor and vulnerable,” Kim said

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

N19,142,526.05m N18,579,219.49m 11.4 12 10.77 US$36.92 US$27,639,305,395

Mar, 2015 Mar, 2015 Feb, 2016 23/03/2016 Mar 2015 11/4/2016 8/4/2016

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 104.54 114.58 111.91 120.62 109.79 100.32 83.54 97.16

1.06 3.23 3.86 5.81 7.94 9.80 14.30 18.29

NIBOR

Rate (%) 4.2500 8.2420 10.1127 11.7162

Bid Yield 10.45 10.54 11.61 11.43 12.23 12.43 12.49 12.54

Change (%) -0.21 ▼ -0.87 ▼ -0.90 ▼ -0.66 ▼

Change (%) 0.07 ▲ -0.01 ▼ 0.01 ▲ -0.01 ▼ -0.04 ▼ 0.04 ▲ 0.05 ▲ 0.06 ▲

Price 104.69 114.88 112.21 120.92 110.09 100.62 83.84 97.46

Tenor (Months)

Change (%) 0.07 ▲ -0.01 ▼ 0.01 ▲ -0.01 ▼ -0.04 ▼ 0.04 ▲ 0.05 ▲ 0.06 ▲

NITTY

Rate (%) 5.1731 6.4137 7.3300 8.8857 9.6247 10.5416

1 2 3 6 9 12

Treasury Bills

Offer Yield 10.30 10.44 11.52 11.36 12.18 12.38 12.44 12.50

Change (%) -1.82 ▼ -0.82 ▼ -0.75 ▼ -0.32 ▼ 0.04 ▲ 0.04 ▲

Money Market

Maturity Date Discount Bid Yield Change (%) Discount Offer Yield Change (%) Rate (%) 7.34 7.47 -0.35 ▼ Open-Buy-Back (OBB) 3.75 30-Jun-16 7.59 7.73 -0.35 ▼ 6-Oct-16 8.37 8.12 8.47 -0.24 ▼ Overnight (O/N) 4.25 8.74 -0.24 ▼ 16-Mar-17 9.40 10.32 0.04 ▲ 9.15 10.02 0.04 ▲

Spot($/N)

Bid 199.14

Offer 199.24

Change (%) 0.00 ↔

NIFEX

Spot($/N)

Bid 199.0000

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

196.00

197.00

0.00 ↔

Offer 199.1000

Change (%) -0.08 ▼ -0.08 ▼

Change (%) 0.00 ↔

in the number of local banks in 2016. He disclosed that two international banks were discussing with local lenders on possible acquisition. He said, “To say that everything will be rosy in 2016 will be deceiving ourselves. I think if the opportunities arise for banks to pursue further consolidation, we could see two or three. I also know that one

or two international banks are interested in pursuing acquisitions in Nigeria and they are indeed having discussions already. “So, you could see a combination of one or two international banks taking over one or two Nigerian banks or merging with them. And nothing also stops two or three Nigerian banks having merger discussions in 2016.”

Coronation Merchant Bank eyes sturdier risk rating

he management of Coronation Merchant Bank plans to strengthen the lender’s risk ratings, New Telegraph has learnt. The bank’s Managing Director, Jimoh Abubakar was said to have disclosed this recently during a review of the bank’s operational strategy in Lagos. He said: “Risk management is one of the pillars of our operations and this awareness continues to influence our organizational disposition to risk management and corporate governance. As a Bank, we presently maintain a 77.3% capital adequacy ratio above the regulatory minimum of 10% and subject our operations to very stringent risk management procedures”. Coronation Merchant Bank according to information seeks innovative strategies and avenues for boosting its operational efficiency geared towards its aspiration of becoming Africa’s premier investment Bank. These initiatives include the recruitment of highly skilled bankers with local and international experience to strengthen its various Strategic Business Unit’s (SBU’s) to deliver exceptional benefits to clients and other stakeholders. For the financial year ended December 2015, the Bank had announced a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of N2.33billion, which is an increase of 43.7 per cent over last year’s figure of N1.62billion, while Profit After Tax (PAT) rose from N1.61billion to N3.22billion, depicting a 100 per cent growth over the previ-

ous year’s figure. Besides, nonperforming loans dropped to 0.4 per cent from 0.76 per cent of the bank’s total loan book in 2014. This underscores the bank’s commitment to risk management and effectiveness of its deployed strategy towards creating quality assets. The bank’s non-performing loan is below the prudential guidance of 5 per cent, which is a contributory justification for ‘A-’ Agusto risk rating. In a related development, the Bank’s Chief Operating Officer, Onome Komolafe said: “In just one year, our assets base grew by 5.6% to over N78billion and a dividend payout of 10.5 kobo per share was announced. These developments are reflective of our institutional culture but more importantly were possible because we adhered to our risk guidelines”. She added: “With the path we have charted for ourselves our risk ratings will soar and the industry will benefit immensely from our state-of-the-art approach to risk management”. Coronation Merchant Bank is a full service Merchant Bank formed from erstwhile Associated Discount House. The lender commenced operations as a Merchant Bank in 2015 following CBN’s approval of conversion of the erstwhile Discount House license to a merchant banking license. Subsequently, it was issued a forex dealing license in 2015 by the CBN to fulfill its operational requirements as a merchant bank. Currently, the bank operates from Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja.

OECD lowers 2016 global growth forecast

he Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) yesterday said its monthly leading economic indicator, a measure designed to flag turning points in the world economy, showed signs of stabilisation in China, India and France. “The CLIs (Composite Leading Indicators) continue to point to easing growth in the US, the UK and Japan, with a similar outlook now expected in Germany and Italy,” it said. “In India and France, growth momentum is stabilising. Signs of growth stabilisation are also emerging in China and Canada,” it said.

On an index where 100 represents the long-term average, the OECD said the reading for OECD countries as a whole edged down to 99.6 in February from 99.7 the month before. The eurozone remained at 100.5 in its latest review of conditions, while the indicator for France was stable at 100.9 and Italy’s dipped from 100.8 to 100.7. The US reading edged lower, to 98.9 from 99, while the UK reading dipped to 99.1 from 99.2. Germany’s indicator dropped to 99.7 from 99.8. China was unchanged at 98.4, Brazil’s reading remained at 97.7 while Russia stabilised at 98.2.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS | Financial Market News FMDQ Daily Quotations List

11-Apr-16

The DQL contains data relating to, amongst other things, market and model prices, rates of foreign exchange products, fixed income securities and instruments in the financial market (the “Information”). The Information does not constitute professional, financial or 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, performance or fitness for a particular purpose of any of the Information, neither do we accept liability for the results of any action taken on the basis of the Information.

Bonds FGN Bonds

Price

Rating/Agency

Issuer

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

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

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

13.05 15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 15.54 16.39 14.20 12.50 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493 12.40

581.39 480.13 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 556.93 605.31 719.99 155.84 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 1075.92 40.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

6,237.28

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

6,427.26

Rating/Agency

Description

Issuer

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs)

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

0.35 1.04 1.29 1.39 2.13 3.21 3.53 3.84 5.80 7.92 9.78 12.63 13.11 13.61 14.28 18.27 19.93

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

Bid Price

Offer Price

6.82 10.38 10.32 10.37 10.50 10.62 11.11 11.61 11.42 12.16 12.24 12.30 12.31 12.32 12.34 12.42 12.45

6.40 10.23 10.19 10.25 10.42 10.51 10.99 11.52 11.35 12.10 12.19 12.26 12.27 12.27 12.29 12.38 12.41

102.08 104.54 99.42 98.69 100.35 114.30 88.26 111.85 120.61 110.16 101.39 117.03 101.11 75.05 84.45 98.03 99.60

102.23 104.69 99.57 98.84 100.50 114.60 88.56 112.15 120.91 110.46 101.69 117.33 101.41 75.35 84.75 98.33 99.90

6192.277269

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

03-Apr-12

17.25

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Modelled Price

1.20

03-Apr-17

0.55

2.94

11.79

102.85

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

0.22 0.22 1.02 0.74 1.72 1.53 1.55 1.51 1.52 1.70 2.12 3.61 2.09 4.63 4.72 2.76 2.78 3.97 3.57 3.59 4.03 6.46 3.69

4.46 3.48 1.00 5.71 3.21 1.00 1.00 3.82 3.56 1.00 2.02 1.98 4.35 1.30 3.76 3.76 1.00 1.52 3.67 1.00 2.52 1.79 3.04

9.78 8.80 11.17 15.11 13.67 11.44 11.44 14.25 13.99 11.45 12.52 13.17 14.85 12.83 15.28 14.33 11.57 12.45 14.81 12.17 13.81 13.28 14.31

100.83 101.36 98.89 99.03 100.44 103.45 103.48 100.26 99.95 105.92 105.27 103.68 99.82 102.23 99.00 100.30 107.63 107.75 104.28 111.79 109.99 115.01 107.08

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

0.47 0.54 0.66 1.02 1.23 1.47 0.92 1.25 1.41 1.41 2.47 1.27 1.60 1.72 2.32 4.59 3.09 5.61 5.72 6.09 4.26 8.47 8.47 9.60

1.00 1.34 1.00 6.96 6.41 2.36 1.88 3.15 6.35 1.00 1.17 6.17 6.11 3.28 4.47 1.00 3.55 2.48 1.00 1.00 2.77 1.00 1.00 1.00

9.29 10.15 10.16 17.13 16.70 12.78 11.81 13.44 16.73 11.38 11.71 16.47 16.55 13.74 14.99 12.54 14.23 13.94 12.47 12.52 14.34 13.19 13.19 13.24

101.63 102.08 103.59 99.42 99.71 100.28 105.97 102.79 101.41 105.71 104.78 99.20 101.86 103.27 100.00 109.22 102.96 101.15 115.89 116.49 104.95 115.54 100.31 108.50

10-Oct-20

2.61

3.37

13.92

101.72

Agency Bonds Nil

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1.20

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1.23

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

446.12 459.07

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

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

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

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

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

15.00 5.53 112.22 116.70 66.49 20.00 0.46 3.60 1.82 0.50 35.00 1.80 0.27 4.50 23.19 2.05 9.76 26.00 30.50 30.00 10.00 0.10 15.44 7.90

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

538.83

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

556.19

Sukuk BBB-/Agusto

10-Oct-13

14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020

*OSUN

14.75

9.40

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

9.40

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

9.56

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

IFC

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

11-Feb-18

1.84

1.00

9.57

101.01

Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P

*AfDB

11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021

10-Jul-14

11.25

12.95

01-Feb-21

3.06

1.00

10.49

101.90

Bid Price

Offer Price

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

24.95 25.32 Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value ($’mm)

Maturity Date

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

6.75 JAN 28, 2021

07-Oct-11

6.75

500.00

28-Jan-21

7.66

7.42

96.40

97.31

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

12-Jul-13

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

5.80

5.40

98.58

99.42

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

12-Jul-13

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

7.92

7.74

91.59

92.52

100.67

Issuer

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

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

FGN

BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,432.84

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

GTBANK PLC I

7.50 MAY 19, 2016

19-May-11

7.50

373.41

19-May-16

8.48

0.55

99.88

B+/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

9.51

97.31

B/Fitch; B/S&P

FIDELITY BANK PLC

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

20.20

18.92

78.32

80.11

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

8.19

95.00

B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P

ZENITH BANK PLC

6.25 APR 22, 2019

22-Apr-14

6.25

500.00

22-Apr-19

9.60

91.38

B/Fitch; B/S&P

DIAMOND BANK PLC

8.75 May 21, 2019

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

15.55

14.42

83.70

86.17

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

FIRST BANK PLC ACCESS BANK PLC II FIRST BANK LTD

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

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

8.25 9.25 8.00

300.00 400.00 450.00

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

13.31 13.81 14.45

83.10 83.00 76.00

B-/S&P

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

14-Aug-14

8.75

250.00

14-Aug-21

12.23

11.76

84.88

86.63

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

DTM

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Discount Rate (%)

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

3,523.41 3,088.25 Description

Issuer

Issue Date

Yield @ Issue (%)

Commercial Papers Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP II 4-MAY-16

04-Nov-15

13.25

7.23

04-May-16

6.03

9.70

9.64

Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP III 29-JUL-16

04-Nov-15

13.75

2.77

29-Jul-16

109

6.18

12.40

11.96

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

10.00

**TREASURY BILLS^ DTM 10 17 24 38 45 52 59 66 73

Money Market

FIXINGS Maturity 21-Apr-16 28-Apr-16 5-May-16 19-May-16 26-May-16 2-Jun-16 9-Jun-16 16-Jun-16 23-Jun-16

Bid Discount (%) 3.72 3.87 3.67 4.10 4.26 5.55 6.02 5.96 6.23

Offer Discount (%) 3.47 3.62 3.42 3.85 4.01 5.30 5.77 5.71 5.98

Bid Yield (%) 3.72 3.87 3.68 4.11 4.29 5.59 6.08 6.02 6.31

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 3.4583 8.2204 9.9995 11.8772

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

3.33

O/N

3.75

Tenor Call 1M 3M

REPO

Rate (%) 3.67 4.83 5.50

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

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

198.60 199.27 199.42 200.23 201.54 202.93 207.10

198.70 199.69 199.96 200.93 202.45 204.17 209.09

^15.54 13-FEB-2020 ^16.39 27-JAN-2022 ^14.20 14-MAR-2024 ^12.50 22-JAN-2026 15.00 28-NOV-2028 12.49 22-MAY-2029 8.50 20-NOV-2029 ^10.00 23-JUL-2030 ^12.1493 18-JUL-2034 12.40 18-MAR-2036

13-Feb-15 27-Jan-12 14-Mar-14 22-Jan-16 28-Nov-08 22-May-09 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10 18-Jul-14 18-Mar-16

15.54 16.39 14.20 12.50 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493 12.40

556.93 605.31 719.99 155.84 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 1075.92 40.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

6,237.28

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

6,427.26

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 Rating/Agency NEW TELEGRAPH

Description

Issuer

13-Feb-20 27-Jan-22 14-Mar-24 22-Jan-26 28-Nov-28 22-May-29 20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30 18-Jul-34 18-Mar-36

3.84 5.80 7.92 9.78 12.63 13.11 13.61 14.28 18.27 19.93

11.61 11.42 12.16 12.24 12.30 12.31 12.32 12.34 12.42 12.45

11.52 11.35 12.10 12.19 12.26 12.27 12.27 12.29 12.38 12.41

111.85 120.61 110.16 101.39 117.03 101.11 75.05 84.45 98.03 99.60

112.15 120.91 110.46 101.69 117.33 101.41 75.35 84.75 98.33 99.90

6192.277269

BUSINESS |Financial Market News

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%) 11.79

102.85

9.78 8.80

100.83 101.36

14.31

107.08

Modelled Price

Stock market sustains three-day fall Agency Bonds

Nil

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

FMBN

03-Apr-12

17.25

1.20

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1.20

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1.23

03-Apr-17

0.55

2.94

30-Jun-16 30-Jun-16

0.22 0.22

4.46 3.48

27-May-22

3.69

3.04

Sub-National Bonds

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

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

SELL PRESSURE

Investors’ wealth down by N234 billion

Stories by Chris Ugwu

30-Jun-11 30-Jun-09

14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016 15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016

14.00 15.50

1.30 2.05

19-Apr-10 by investors 10.00 57.00 10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017 abated, producing 14 los- trading day, while the in 168 deals. 30-Jun-10 13.75 16.45 13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017 ers and 2514.00 gainers. Volume secmarket capitalisation 31-Dec-10 of 14.00 in the sub 25.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017 14.00 23.44 14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018 tor was 14.00 largely driven by Key market indicators, equities depreciated 30-Sep-11 by 04-Oct-11 4.22 14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018 09-Dec-11 activities 14.50 in the shares 10.98 14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018 the NSE ASI and market N234 billion or 2.68 per 12-Dec-13 14.00 8.14 14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 capitalisation, fell cent as market sentiment 14-Feb-12 of Equity 15.50Assurance 21.68Plc 15.50 ONDO each 14-FEB-2019 02-Oct-12 15.50 12.55 15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 by 2.68 per cent, as there remained in the red zone. and Continental Reinsur14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 22-Nov-12 14.50 80.00 12-Dec-12 ance Plc. 14.75 21.65 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 were nearly two declinMeanwhile, a turnover 27-Nov-13 13.50 87.50 13.50 LAGOS 27-NOV-2020 Also,15.00 the banking5.00sub ing stocks15.00 for every one, of 225.3 million shares 31-Dec-13 KOGI 31-DEC-2020 31-Dec-13 14.50 4.03 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 sector, boosted by activiwhich advanced in value. exchanged in 3,058 deals. 06-Jan-14 15.00 4.04 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021 09-Dec-14 ties in the 15.50shares of 14.37 15.50 BAUCHI The insurance sub secConsequently , 9-DEC-2021 the AllUBA 17-Feb-15 16.50 4.39 16.50 OYO 16-FEB-2022 Share Index 679.23 tor of the financial serSkye Bank4.53Plc 27-Feb-15 Plc and16.50 16.50dipped BENUE 27-FEB-2022 30-Mar-15 27.10 17.50 PLATEAU 30-MAR-2022 basis points or 2.68 per vices sector was the most followed17.50 with a turnover 01-Apr-15 17.00 3.00 17.00 KOGI II 31-MAR-2022 27-May-15 17.00 7.68 17.00 CROSS RIVER 27-MAY-2022 active (measured by turncent to close at 24,648.84 446.12 as against 25,328.07 re- over volume) with 67.8 459.07 corded the previous million shares exchanged

he Nigerian equities market yesterday tumbled for the third TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE consecutive trading day, TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION as sell pressure was un-

19-Apr-17 1.02 1.00 of 30-Jun-17 55.2 million shares 0.74 5.71 traded deals. 3.21 31-Dec-17in 1.005 1.72 30-Sep-18 1.53 1.00 Shares of 1.55 Caverton 04-Oct-18 1.00 1.51 3.82 Plc09-Dec-18 led the gainers’ chart, 12-Dec-18 1.52 3.56 appreciating by 14-Feb-19 1.70 4.86 per 1.00 02-Oct-19 2.12 2.02 cent to close at3.61N1.51 per 22-Nov-19 1.98 12-Dec-19 AXA- 2.09 4.35 share. Mansard 27-Nov-20 4.63 1.30 Plc31-Dec-20 followed with a gain 4.72 3.76 2.76 3.76 of 31-Dec-20 4.84 per cent to close 06-Jan-21 2.78 1.00 3.97 1.52 at 09-Dec-21 N1.95 per share respec16-Feb-22 3.57 3.67 tively , while Nascon Plc 27-Feb-22 3.59 1.00 30-Mar-22 4.03 2.52 gained 4.79 per cent to 31-Mar-22 6.46 1.79

11.17 98.89 close15.11 at N7.65 per share. 99.03 On the flip side, shares 13.67 100.44 11.44 103.45 of 11.44 Nigerian-German 103.48 14.25 100.26 Chemical Plc led the los13.99 99.95 ers with a loss of105.92 9.72 per 11.45 105.27 cent12.52 to close at N3.81 per 13.17 103.68 14.85UBN Plc was 99.82 down share. 12.83 102.23 by 9.64 to close 15.28 per cent99.00 14.33 100.30 at N5.06 per share, while 11.57 107.63 12.45 Plc dropped 107.75 Fidson 9.40 14.81 104.28 per cent to close111.79 at N2.12 12.17 13.81 109.99 per share. 13.28 115.01

United Capital records NEM reports 53% drop in net earnings 61% growth in Q1 profit Corporate Bonds

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

NAHCO FSDH

***LCRM

UBA *C & I LEASING *DANA#{r} *TOWER# *TOWER#

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

15.00 5.53 112.22 116.70 66.49 20.00 0.46 3.60 1.82 0.50 35.00 1.80 0.27 4.50 23.19 2.05 9.76 26.00 30.50 30.00 10.00 0.10 15.44 7.90

nited Capital Plc EM Insurance Plc per cent. of the company during (formerly UBA has posted 53.19 The company’s prethe management retreat UBA *LA CASERA tax profit grew to N1.872 Capital Plc) has per cent decline held in Lagos, said the posted 61 per cent inin profit after tax for*CHELLARAMS the billion during the pecompany was determined *DANA *FCMB full year ended Decemriod under review from to build a customer satis- crease in net earnings NAHCO ber 31, 2015. fying insurance institu- for the first quarter end*TRANSCORP N1.380 HOTELS PLCbillion a year ear*FCMB In a filing with theUBA Ni- lier while gross premium tion that is passionate ed March 31, 2016. FIDELITY In a filing with the Nigerian Stock Exchange written firmed up to 10.75 about adding value to the *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC (NSE), the insurance STANBIC firm IBTCper cent from N5.804 bil- interests of all stakehold- gerian Stock Exchange STANBIC IBTClion in 2014 to N6.428 bil(NSE), the group’s profit said its post-tax profit ers in the company. *NMRC stood at N713.702 million lion in 2015. He said: “Notwith- after tax rose to N1.137 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE 538.83 during the financial year milProfit was N1.39 bil- standing the disequilib- billion from N707.424 TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION 556.19 as against N1.525 billion lion in the first three rium in the economy, we lion in the same period Sukuk months through March will continue our pursuit of last year, indicating a recorded the same period 10-Oct-13 14.75 9.40 14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020 BBB-/Agusto *OSUN 2015, compared with of our brand differentia- growth of 60.72 per 9.40 cent. last accounting TOTALyear, OUTSTANDING VALUE for TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Profit before tax 9.56 grew a drop of 53.19 per cent. N396.34 million the pre- tion with renewed vigour. The company’s previous year. This is with the aim of by 59.22 per cent from Supranational Bond IFC 11-FEB-2018 inAAA/S&P IFC 11-Feb-13 N892.451 10.20 12.00Q1 million in continuing our upward tax profit fell to N598.838 Gross 10.20 premium 11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021 Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P *AfDB 10-Jul-14 11.25 12.95 2015 to N 1.421 billion in million during the pecome (NPI) rose by 22.90 push for industry leaderTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE 24.95 riod review from per cent to N2.25 bil- ship. In our quest for this, Q1 2016. TOTAL under MARKET CAPITALISATION 25.32 Gross earnings rose to N1.766 billion a year ear- lion in 2015, from N1.83 we are equally not unOutstanding Value Description Rating/Agency Issuer Issue Date Coupon (%) ($’mm) lier, representing a drop billion in 2014, as the mindful of the fact that N1.856 billion, compared FGN66.09 Eurobonds of per cent. company intensifies its our operations must be to N1.306 billion last year, 6.75 28, 2021 BB-/Fitch; B+/S&P 07-Oct-11 a growth 6.75 . JANin of 42.1per500.00 cent. However, the com- underwriting capacity line with international BB-/Fitch; United acpany’s gross premium FGN Gross premium written 5.13 JULbest 12, 2018practices. 12-Jul-13 5.13 Capital, 500.00 BB-/S&P firmed up to 11 per cent moved by 7.07 per cent “We have restructured cording to a statement, BB-/Fitch; 6.38 JUL 12, 2023 12-Jul-13 6.38 500.00 BB-/S&P from N9.836 billion in to N3.48 per cent, while our operations to make it recently achieved1,500.00 finanTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE 2014 N10.895 billion in gross premium earned very flexible and friend- cial close on the $250 milTOTAL to MARKET CAPITALISATION 1,432.84 2015. jumped by 2.65 per cent. ly in line with current lion tranche one crude Corporate Eurobonds For instance, facility for NEM per PLC I The Group Managing 7.50 MAYrealities. 19, 2016 B+/Fitch; B+/S&Pposted 45.13 GTBANK 19-May-11 prepayment 7.50 373.41 7.25 JULwe 25, 2017 B+/S&P rise in profit and ACCESS PLC 25-Jul-12 Orion Oil 7.25 from a syndi350.00 operate 14 branches cent af- BANKDirector/Chief Executive 6.88 MAY 09, 2018 B/Fitch; B/S&P FIDELITY BANK PLC 09-May-13 6.88 300.00 with two in Lagos; we ter tax for the half GTBANK year PLC Officer, NEM Insurance cate of three Pan African 6.00 NOV 08, 2018 B+/Fitch; B+/S&P 08-Nov-13 6.00 400.00 6.25 APRhave 22, 2019 set up a customer B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P PLC 22-Apr-14 banks. 6.25 500.00 ended June 30, 2015. ZENITH BANK Plc, Mr. Tope Smart had 8.75 May 21, 2019 B/Fitch; B/S&P DIAMOND BANK PLC 21-May-14 8.75 200.00 service centre with the The insurance firm’s said that the board and The second tranche of 8.25 AUG 07, 2020 B-/Fitch; B/S&P FIRST BANK PLC 07-Aug-13 8.25 300.00 9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021of delighting B-/Fitch; B/S&P profit stood ACCESS PLC II 24-Jun-14 $330 million 9.25 400.00 objective post-tax at BANKmanagement of the comwill achieve 8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021 B-/Fitch; B/S&P FIRST BANK LTD 23-Jul-14 8.00 450.00 N1.582 billion duringECOBANK the NIG.pany was determined to customers. Aside the close in the sec8.75 AUGour 14, 2021 B-/S&P LTD 14-Aug-14 financial 8.75 250.00 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE 3,523.41 second quarter of the build a strong brand that fact that this will ensure ond quarter of 2016. In TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION year as against N1.090 would ensure safe protec- customer loyalty, we are addition to United3,088.25 CapibillionRating/Agency recorded the same Issuer tion for the clients. equally sure of getting tal’sYield role as structuring Outstanding Value Description Issue Date @ Issue (%) period last year, accountSmart while address- referrals from the satis- bank, it will also act(₦’bn) as faCommercial ing for aPapers growth of 45.13 ing top management staff fied customers. cility agent and security #

#{r}

Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP II 4-MAY-16

04-Nov-15

13.25

7.23

Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP III 29-JUL-16

04-Nov-15

13.75

2.77

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

0.47 0.54 0.66 1.02 1.23 1.47 0.92 1.25 1.41 1.41 2.47 1.27 1.60 1.72 2.32 4.59 3.09 5.61 5.72 6.09 4.26 8.47 8.47 9.60

1.00 1.34 1.00 6.96 6.41 2.36 1.88 3.15 6.35 1.00 1.17 6.17 6.11 3.28 4.47 1.00 3.55 2.48 1.00 1.00 2.77 1.00 1.00 1.00

9.29 10.15 10.16 17.13 16.70 12.78 11.81 13.44 16.73 11.38 11.71 16.47 16.55 13.74 14.99 12.54 14.23 13.94 12.47 12.52 14.34 13.19 13.19 13.24

101.63 102.08 103.59 99.42 99.71 100.28 105.97 102.79 101.41 105.71 104.78 99.20 101.86 103.27 100.00 109.22 102.96 101.15 115.89 116.49 104.95 115.54 100.31 108.50

trustee to lenders on the port the Orion Group on this transaction and look facility. According to the state- forward to continuing ment, United Capital our relationship through syndicated the facility other deals of this magthrough three Pan Afri- nitude on the continent”. can institutions, United Sanni said that as the Bank for Africa and its structuring bank, United subsidiaries across Af- Capital is responsible for rica ($100 million), Afri- the overall transaction ca Export Import Bank, coordination, structurEgypt ($100 million) and ing and syndication for Banque Gabonaise et tranche one ($250 million) Française Internatioand13.92 tranche two ($330 10-Oct-20 2.61 3.37 101.72 nale, Gabon ($50 million). million) of Orion’s preDespite the recent fall payment facility to SNPC. in oil prices, the US$250 She added that the fa11-Feb-18 1.84 prepay1.00 9.57 cility would run101.01 for a pemillion crude 01-Feb-21 1.00 101.90 ment facility3.06was the riod10.49 of four years with largest reported transac- a repayment period of tion structured by an Af- three years. Bid Yield (%) Offer Yield (%) Bid Price Price Maturity Date rican investment bank in “The expertOffer capabiliYields 2015 involving the raising Prices ties&of our project finance 7.66 7.42 96.40in structuring 97.31 of 28-Jan-21 fresh capital within team a the12-Jul-18 African market. transaction that99.42 attract5.80 5.40 98.58 Group Chief Execued funding from92.52 notable 12-Jul-23 7.92 7.74 91.59 tive Officer, United Capi- Pan-African banks was tal, Oluwatoyin Sanni critical in achieving fisaid: “As a group focused nancial close,” Managing on19-May-16 providing8.48strategic Director of United 0.55 99.88 100.67 Capi25-Jul-17 9.51 9.51 investment banking and tal’s97.31 Investment 97.31 Banking 02-May-18 20.20 18.92 78.32 80.11 financing solutions to division, Wale Shonibare 08-Nov-18 8.19 8.19 95.00 95.00 22-Apr-19 9.60 9.60 91.38 our clients across the said.91.38 21-May-19 15.55 14.42 83.70 86.17 continent, our roles 13.31 as Director, Project Fi07-Aug-20 13.31 83.10 83.10 24-Jun-21 13.81 13.81 83.00 at United83.00 debt advisor, structuring nance Capital, 23-Jul-21 14.45 14.45 76.00 76.00 bank, facility12.23 agent and Kolapo 14-Aug-21 11.76 84.88 Joseph, according 86.63 security trustee is a true to the statement, leads testament to our ability the team as they prepare Risk to provide multiple serfor theYield Second Tranche, Valuation DTM Maturity Date Discount Rate (%) Premium (%) vices within our group. which will take place in (%) We are very happy to sup- early 2016. #

04-May-16

6.03

9.70

9.64

29-Jul-16

109

6.18

12.40

11.96

10.00

11-Apr-16

The DQL contains data relating to, amongst other things, market and model prices, rates of foreign exchange products, fixed income securities and instruments in the financial market (the “Information”). not constitute professional, financial or Money MarketThe Information does **TREASURY BILLS^ FIXINGS Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) investment advice. Information is accurate; however, the (%) Information is provided “AS IS” (%) and on an Bid “ASYield AVAILABLE” basis and may not be accurate or up to date. the accuracy, timeliness, completeness, performance DTM We attempt to ensure the Maturity Bid Discount Offer Discount (%) TenorWe do not guarantee Rate (%) NIBOR 10 21-Apr-16 3.72 3.47 3.72 or fitness for a particular purpose of any of28-Apr-16 the Information, neither do we accept liability for the results of any action taken on the 3.87 basis of the Information. OBB 3.33 Tenor Bid ($/N) Offer ($/N) 17 3.87 3.62 Tenor Rate (%) FGN

24 38 45 Bonds 52 59 66 Rating/Agency 73 80 94 101 108 115 122 129 143 150 164 178 185 NA 192 206 234 248 269 283 297 311 325 339

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

3.67 4.10 4.26 5.55 6.02 5.96 Description 6.23 5.92 13.05 16-AUG-2016 5.60 ^15.10 27-APR-20176.57 6.98 9.85 27-JUL-2017 7.23 9.35 31-AUG-2017 7.72 7.44 10.70 30-MAY-2018 8.15 ^16.00 29-JUN-20198.34 7.00 23-OCT-2019 8.18 ^15.54 13-FEB-20208.43 ^16.39 27-JAN-20228.40 8.30 ^14.20 14-MAR-2024 8.44 ^12.50 22-JAN-20268.12 15.00 28-NOV-2028 8.50 8.61 12.49 22-MAY-2029 8.95 8.50 20-NOV-2029 8.98 ^10.00 23-JUL-20309.05 9.02 ^12.1493 18-JUL-2034 9.14

3.42 3.85 4.01 5.30 5.77 5.71 Issue Date 5.98 5.67 5.35 16-Aug-13 6.32 27-Apr-12 6.73 27-Jul-07 6.98 31-Aug-07 7.47 7.19 30-May-08 7.90 29-Jun-12 8.09 23-Oct-09 7.93 8.18 13-Feb-15 8.15 27-Jan-12 8.05 14-Mar-14 8.19 7.87 22-Jan-16 8.25 28-Nov-08 8.36 22-May-09 8.70 20-Nov-09 8.73 8.80 23-Jul-10 8.77 18-Jul-14 8.89

12.40 18-MAR-2036

18-Mar-16

Bonds

3.68 4.11 4.29 5.59 6.08 6.02 Coupon (%) 6.31 6.00 5.68 13.05 6.69 15.10 7.13 9.85 7.40 9.35 7.93 7.64 10.70 8.42 16.00 8.63 7.00 8.49 8.79 15.54 8.77 16.39 8.68 14.20 8.86 8.56 12.50 9.02 15.00 9.19 12.49 9.61 8.50 9.69 9.81 10.00 9.81 12.1493 9.99

12.40

O/N 1M 3M 6M

3.4583 8.2204 9.9995 11.8772

Tenor 581.39 1M 480.13 2M 20.00 3M 100.00 6M 9M 300.00 12M

Rate (%) 16-Aug-16 3.9324 27-Apr-17 6.0954 27-Jul-17 5.8119 31-Aug-17 8.8096 9.4056 30-May-18 10.5030

351.30 29-Jun-19 233.90 23-Oct-19 556.93 NIFEX 13-Feb-20 605.31 27-Jan-22 Current Price ($/N) 14-Mar-24 BID($/N) 719.99 199.0000 OFFER ($/N) 199.1000 155.84 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 40.00 18-Mar-36

6,237.28

# TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Risk Premium is a combination of credit risk and liquidity risk premiums

6,427.26

3.75

REPO

Outstanding Value Maturity Date (₦’bn) NITTY

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

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

O/N Tenor Call 1M TTM (Yrs) 3M 6M

Rate (%) 3.67 4.83 Bid5.50 Yield 6.17

(%)

0.35 6.82 6.40 1.04 10.38 10.23 NOTE: 1.29 10.32 10.19 :Benchmarks 1.39Bond 10.37 10.25 * :Amortising µ :Convertible 2.13Bond 10.50 10.42 AMCON: Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria 3.21 10.62 10.51 FGN: Federal Government of Nigeria 3.53 Mortgage Bank11.11 10.99 FMBN: Federal of Nigeria IFC: International 3.84 Finance Corporation 11.61 11.52 LCRM: Local Contractors Receivables Management 5.80 11.42 11.35 NAHCO: Nigerian Aviation Handling Company 7.92 12.16 12.10 O/N: Overnight UPDC: UAC9.78 Property Development 12.24Company 12.19 WAPCO:West Africa Portland Cement Company 12.63 12.30 12.26 13.11 12.31 12.27 13.61 12.32 12.27 14.28 12.34 12.29 18.27 12.42 12.38 19.93 12.45 12.41

Issuer

Description

Issue Date

FMBN Modified Duration Buckets

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

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

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

FMDQ FGN BOND INDEX

Agency Bonds Nil

Coupon (%)

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

<3 3<5 >5 Market

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 Porfolio Market Value (₦’bn)

1,024.46 1,523.19 1,554.31 4,101.96

Total Outstanding Volume (₦’bn)

Weighting by 03-Apr-12 Outstanding Volume

908.23 1,325.30 1,667.49 3,901.02

23.28 33.97 42.74 100.00

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

Weighting by Mkt 17.25 Value

24.97 37.13 37.89 100.00

14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.50 14.00 15.50 15.50

198.60 199.27 199.42 200.23 201.54 202.93 Bid Price 207.10 215.68

198.70 199.69 199.96 Price 200.93 202.45 204.17 Offer Price 209.09 221.14

102.08 102.23 104.54 104.69 99.42 99.57 NA :Not Applicable ^ : Market Prices 98.69 98.84 # : Floating Rate Bond 100.35 100.50 ***: Deferred coupon bonds 114.30 114.60 DTM: Days-To-Maturity 88.26 88.56 TTM: Term-To-Maturity ‡ : Bond111.85 rating under review 112.15 †: Bond rating expired 120.61 120.91 N/A :Not Available 110.16 110.46 {r} :Issuer in receivership NGC: Nigeria-German Company101.69 101.39 UBA: United Bank for Africa 117.03 117.33 101.11 101.41 75.05 75.35 84.45 84.75 98.03 98.33 99.60 99.90

6192.277269

**Exclusive of non-trading t.bills

Rating/Agency

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

1.20 Bucket Weighting

1.20

0.23

1.23 0.34 1.30 2.05 57.00 16.45 25.00 23.44 4.22 10.98 8.14 21.68 12.55

0.43 1.00

% Exposure_ 03-Apr-17 Mod_Duration

12.42 29.08 58.50 100.00

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

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

Implied0.55 Yield

11.26 11.85 12.39 12.09

0.22 0.22 1.02 0.74 1.72 1.53 1.55 1.51 1.52 1.70 2.12

Risk Premium (%) Implied 2.94 Portfolio Price

139.1557 154.0183 117.9178 135.1269

4.46 3.48 1.00 5.71 3.21 1.00 1.00 3.82 3.56 1.00 2.02

Valuation Yield (%) 11.79 INDEX 1,265.99 1,335.25 1,421.62 1,286.76

9.78 8.80 11.17 15.11 13.67 11.44 11.44 14.25 13.99 11.45 12.52

Modelled Price

YTD Return 102.85 (%)

14.2750 31.8668 41.1715 21.9466

100.83 101.36 98.89 99.03 100.44 103.45 103.48 100.26 99.95 105.92 105.27

News|south-west

Osun confirms Lasisi as LAUTECH’s substantive CMD Adeolu Adeyemo

Osogbo

sun State Government yesterday confirmed the appointment of Prof. Akeem Olawale Lasisi, as the substantive Chief Medical Director CMD of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Osogbo. This was disclosed by Governor Rauf Aregbesola in a statement issued by the Director Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Semiu Okanlawon in Osogbo. Okanlawon quoted a letter signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Gboyega Oyetola, confirming the appointment. The statement read

in part: ‘Re: Appointment of substantive Chief Medical Director’ dated 8th was addressed to LAUTECH Chairman Management Board.” I am to convey to you, the approval of Governor Rauf Aregbesola of the appointment of Prof. Akeem Olawale Lasisi as the substantive Chief Medical Director of the Teaching Hospital with effect from 8 April, 2016.” Lasisi has been in acting capacity as the CMD of the institution.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Lagos to arraign 28 tax defaulters Muritala Ayinla

leven days after it declared its intention to commence prosecution of tax defaulters in the state, the Lagos State Rapid Tax Prosecution Unit said it was set to arraign 28 recalcitrant tax evaders. The state government had warned that it would commence prosecution of the tax defaulters from April 1, 2016. Speaking on the arraignment of the arrest-

ed defaulters, the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem, said that the Rapid Tax Prosecution Unit had filled all the necessary actions at the State High Court for the arraignment of 28 tax defaulters referred by the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS). Adeniji gave the offences of the defaulters to include failure to furnish and file tax returns and failure to pay personal tax to the

state. These offences, according to the Commissioner, violate the Personal Income Tax Act 2004, as amended and the Lagos State Revenue Administration Law. He explained that the state government established the Rapid Tax Prosecution Unit, to aid the LIRS in its drive to collect taxes, and warned members of the public to cooperate with tax officers as obstruction of these tax

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde; Publisher, Vanguard Newspapers, Chief Sam Amuka Pemu, and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Fola Adeyemi, during the visit to the Ministry in Lagos… yesterday.

4.64bn

The total value of Nigeria’s export from frozen shrimps and prawns in 2014 Q4. Source: National Bureau of Statistics.

$24.4m The total pay (including salary/ winnings & endorsements) of Mario Sharapova (Tennis) for 2014. Source: Forbes.com.

Aregbesola seeks Assembly’s nod for budget’s downward review Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

overnor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State, has sought the approval of the state House of Assembly for the downward review of the state budget expenditure from N150,728,245,450 to N137,977,966,630. Among the governor’s requests is the downward review of personnel cost from N33,344,515,710 to N32,793,966,970; the overhead cost from N12,276,675,930 to

N9,202,330,410. However, the Consolidated Revenue Fund Charge is to remain at N37,123,204,940, while the capital expenditure is to be reviewed from N67,983,848,960 to N58,858,464,310. In a letter to the Assembly, read by the Speaker, Honourable Najeem Salaam, at the plenary yesterday to the members, the governor also demanded for the review of total expenditure from N150,728,245,450 to N137,977,966,630. He stated that the review was necessary to give the

government the capacity to implement the budget. A statement by the Chairman, House Committee on Information and Strategy, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, said the governor was seeking the approval of the House for the review of the budget due to the poor economic reality. According to the statement, “the current economic downturn in the country, occasioned by the dwindling revenue accruable to the federation account, the need to reduce the cost of governance had arisen.

Meanwhile, an Osogbo based group, Civil Societies Coalition for the Emancipation of Osun State (CSCEOS), has accused Governor Rauf Aregbesola led administration of fraudulent practices and diversion of local government funds accruing from federation account. The coalition, in a letter signed by its chairman, Comrade Adeniyi Alimi Sulaiman and addressed to President Muhammadu Buhari, and the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), the National Assembly and the Federal Account Allocation Committee(FAAC), also accused the governor of reckless spending.

Ekiti SSG refutes resignation claim, says‘I’m on leave’ Sulaiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti

ecretary to Ekiti State Government, Mrs. Modupe Alade, has denied the rumour that she had finally resigned her appointment from Governor Ayodele Fayose’s cabinet. The news had spread early on Sunday that the Ekiti Government’s scribe

officers in their lawful duty can and will lead to another prosecution. To drag more taxable residents to the tax net, the Attorney-General said the enforcement of the tax laws became necessary because a large number of Lagosians have not paid their taxes. He said tax evaders and offenders, upon prosecution, may be fined or imprisoned or made to face both as provided in the Personal Income Tax Act.

had resigned from her job, following in the footsteps of the Works Commissioner, Mr. Kayode Oso, who had, last week, resigned his appointment, on health grounds. Alade, in a statement in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital dismissed the claim, saying she was currently on a twoweek casual leave, which she said started on Monday, April 11, (yesterday) to

enable her attend to urgent personal matters. The SSG stated she would return to office soon after the end of leave period. She expressed regrets that people had misinterpreted her leave for resignation, saying she still remained a loyalist to the governor. The social media had been inundated with comments about the com-

missioner’s purported resignation on Sunday, a development which forced the state government to use the state owned radio to debunk the claim. The SSG was, last November, suspended indefinitely by Governor Ayodele Fayose for alleged incompetence, but was recalled few days afterwards upon the intervention of the Ewi (monarch) of Ado Ekiti.

APC’ll follow due process in Saraki’s trial, says Banire Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

ormer Commissioner for the Environment, Lagos State and the National Legal Adviser of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Muiz Banire, yesterday, said that the rule of law would strictly be followed in the ongoing Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) trial of the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki. Banire (SAN), disclosed this in an interview with newsmen after presenting two bills - Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill and Whistleblower Bill, to the Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr. Michael Adeyemo. The bills, which were sponsored by the United Action for Change (UAC), sought domestication of the FOI Act in Oyo State with regard to the challenges identified in the operation of the Act as it exists at the federal level. Banire stated that the party would not influence

the decision of CCT over Saraki or any other person, adding that people should also know that Saraki was still being presumed innocent until proven otherwise by a competent court. He, however, corroborated the position of people in some quarters that Saraki should resign his position as the President of the Senate just like the immediate past Prime Minister of Iceland, Sigmundur David Gunnlaugsson, did as matter of morality. The former Prime Minister resigned after mounting protests and calls for his resignation after leaked documents from a Panamanian law firm revealed his links to an offshore company. Speaking in the bills, Banire disclosed that a federal legislation does not have a nationwide application because it is in the residual list of the constitution, not an item under the exclusive legislative liist or concurrent list.

News|SOUTH-EAST

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Nwodo denies dumping PDP for APC

Biafra: MASSOB, IPOB chide South-East APC leaders

lHold IPOB responsible for killings in Abia, group urges FG Yekeen Nurudeen, Abuja and Charles Onyekwere

he Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have decried the call by South-East leaders of All Progressives congress (APC) to them to jettison their quest for an independent country from Nigeria, while branding them (the agitators) as enemies of the Igbo. MASSOB and IPOB’s reactions came as response to a communiqué released by the APC South-East leaders’ zonal executive committee, following a meeting held in Enugu last weekend.

Igbeaku Orji Umuahia

overnors Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State and Rochas Okorocha of Imo State have said that the reported killing of some Fulani herdsmen was not borne out of ethnic or tribal animosity but a clear case of kidnapping. They said that Igbo were among the corpses exhumed. The two governors

In a signed statement made available to New Telegraph via e-mail by MASSOB and IPOB leaders, Comrade Uchenna Madu and Emma Powerful, the groups said the since the emergence of the Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, the South-East APC had become a mere political stooge. They added that nobody takes them seriously again because they have no political ideology. According to the statement. “In the entire Igboland, they are being disenfranchised by their own party which has no regard for South-East APC’s contributions and unflinching support. MASSOB views the position of the party leadership in the region to drop Biafra agitation as the moaning of a drowning

man. Following the SouthEast APC leaders meeting in Enugu, the party said through a communique that it was in support of the anti-corruption crusade of the President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, to recover all looted public funds stolen by past leaders of the country. The party’s South-East National Vice Chairman, Hon. Emma Eneukwu, lauded the APC-led Federal Government for capturing the Second Niger Bridge, Enugu-Onitsha, the Enugu Port-Harcourt and OnitshaOwerri Roads in the 2016 budget. Meanwhile, a group, the Conference of Minority Tribes of Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to hold the leadership

of the IPOB responsible for the alleged killings of some Northerners in the SouthEast by those believed to be members of the group. Addressing a press conference yesterday in Abuja, Secretary General of the group, Comrade Samson Ayodele Babalola, condemned the killings, describing it as a crime against humanity He threatened to drag the leadership of the group to the International Criminal Court (ICC) at the Hague following the alleged killings of the northerners in Abia State. Babalola, said the killings marked a new low in what had been cordial relations between ethnic nationalities in Nigeria that have always accepted one another as family.

Herdsmen killings, clear cases of kidnap – Ikpeazu, Okorocha made the declaration at a joint security council meeting of the two states held at the Government House, Umuahia. This came as the two states resolved to set up a joint border patrol to check the porosity that had given rise to criminal activities across the borders of the

two states. Ikpeazu said that the joint security patrol was to address the security challenges in the area, especially, kidnapping and assured the people that the two states would mobilize resources to forestall recurrence. According to Ikpeazu,

“Governor Okorocha has come for us to fashion strategy to battle issues of common interest between both states, especially security issues. You are aware that kidnapping and violent crimes have become a recurrent decimal in this area and what we want to do is to lift part

Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha (left), with the Deputy General Manager/Zonal Head, Imo/Abia Zenith Bank Plc, Dr. Goc Okenwa, after his inauguration as member of steering committee for Imo State Automated workforce identity verification and payroll management system.

Group to attract international assistance against erosion Pamela Eboh Awka

non-governmental group, Igbo Improvement Union, (IIU), with branches in all the seven Igbo –speaking states in the country, has said it had begun moves for an exhibi-

tion on erosion sites in Igbo land towards attracting international attention for assistance to combat the menace that had rendered many people homeless. The group said it had set up gully erosion and flood committees in all the states of the South-East region, with the mandate to identi-

fy and take photographs of the sites for the exhibition expected to take place either in Lagos or Abuja. Though details of the exhibition have not been made public, there were indications over the weekend that notable international donors would be invited to witness pictorial documentation of

what most communities in Igbo land have experienced for years. There are over 2000 major erosion sites in the five South Eastern states with many farmlands and houses already washed away. Speaking at a meeting of the union in Awka, the state chairman of IIU, Chief

former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Okwesilieze Nwodo, has said he has not defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress. He said he has no such intention even as he said situation in his party was not exciting as he would have wanted. Nwodo was reacting to his purported defection to the APC over the weekend. In a statement he personally signed yesterday, Nwodo chided those he said allegedly broke the news of his puported defection to the APC, saying they based their position on the activities of his wife, whom he said attended a meeting of APC members. “The former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, CON says his attention has been drawn to media insinuations that he has dumped the PDP

and joined the ruling All Progressives Congress APC and wishes to state categorically that while developments in PDP is embarrassing and unexciting, he is yet to dump the party. Nwodo, a pioneer National Secretary of PDP and former governor of old Enugu State, said that was improper for the media to stand merely on his wife being present at a meeting that he was not, to conclude that he had joined the APC. The former governor said although a number of issues within the PDP remain embarrassing to the founding fathers, saying, ‘’I’m still a member of the PDP and not the APC.” He, therefore, urged his numerous supporters across the country, particularly in Enugu State to disregard the purported story as his political direction would not be hidden if the need arises.

of the problem of the Federal Government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari by making sure that the South East is safe.” He said: “Security chiefs have been mandated to cross our borders freely to make sure that they haunt down criminals wherever they may be. It is our responsibility to protect lives and property of not only Abians but all Nigerians and all members of the world community that reside within the confines of Abia and Imo.” Also speaking, Governor Okorocha said criminal activities cannot be allowed to continue and commended the security agencies for arresting the perpetrators of the act.

Crisis engulfs Ebonyi TUC over election

17,930

The total number of interactions on Twitter of Cristiano Ronaldo in February 2016. Source: Goal.com

1.64m

The total area (in sq. km) of land of Iran. Source: Worldfactsandfigures. com

Nnabuenyi Udoka, said people in the affected communities were being encouraged to forward pictures of erosion sites in their areas to the state executive in readiness for the planned exhibition. According to him, while IIU would also be concerned with other issues affecting the Igbo nation, the most immediate worry was the menace of erosion that had devastated many communities and forced people to become refugees in their areas.

Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI

mild crisis yesterday ensued during the Ebonyi Trade Union Congress (TUC), election held to elect the state chapter’s new executive members, as a former chairman of the union Comrade Oduma Elias, was denied the position of ex-official of the union. The atmosphere was thrown a momentary crisis as members of the union shouted against the announcement of Oduma, as ex-officio and instead demanded he account for the union’s funds he allegedly embezzled when he was the chairman. Trouble started during the election when those vying for different positions were called up to inform the members of their intentions. On getting to Oduma’s turn, two members of the union, Comrade lsogu Una, and Okpuru Ikechukwu objected to his nomination as ex-officio, stating that he was yet to account for some funds meant for the union when he was chairman. He was therefore asked to properly account for the funds which include the money allegedly given to the union by the state government and other benefits meant for the union members before his nomination would stand.

NEWS | south-south

tuesday, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Oshiomhole tasks herdsmen, farmers on peaceful co-existence

NANS to Buhari: Appoint a substantive Petrol Minister

BENIN

Cajetan Mmuta

do State government yesterday warned Fulani herdsmen and local farmers in the state to maintain the peace or face the wrath of the law, saying the government will neither ban grazing nor ban farming. Governor Adams Oshiomhole stated this during a stakeholders’ meeting to find a lasting solution to the lingering crisis between Fulani herdsmen and farmers in the state. He said the ugly situation, if not properly managed, can escalate beyond what we can manage easily. The governor said: “Edo State government will prosecute any rapist, kidnapper, rustler, who contravenes the law.” According to him, “I think listening to all the stakeholders, whether royal fathers, farmers,

herdsmen, everybody agreed that neither rape, robbery, destruction of farms, rustling of cattle is acceptable. And I think we are all committed to ensuring that we put an end to any of these practices so that all of us can continue to live together in peace, harmony and in security.” He continued; “In every conflict, you will find someone you can describe as the oppressor. Somebody might be blamed, but every conflict can be resolved if all the parties approach the solution with honest intentions and whatever agreement reached, we faithfully try to implement. That way, there will be peace. There will be no war without a quarrel, but what matters is the capacity to resolve those quarrels and to continue to live in peace. “It is clear to me that Nigeria can only explore ways and means of living together; not ways of how not to live together and

Edo guber race: Anxiety over APC’s N30m expression of interest form Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

here is growing anxiety among governorship aspirants jostling for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket ahead of the party’s primaries in Edo State over the N30 million pegged by the national secretariat of the party for the expression of interest form for the governorship election in the state. New Telegraph gathered yesterday that the decision by the party to peg the sale of the form at N30 million, was jointly taken by the national leadership and the state executive committee of the party to pave way for a successful campaign preparatory to the epic battle. It will be recalled that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed September 10 this year for the

conduct of the governorship election. A source close to the APC secretariat said the aspirants are expected to pay N5 million for the collection of the expression of interest form and will pay additional N25 million on the return of the forms. According to the source, “The aspirants will collect the forms with N5 million and pay additional N25 million each when they are to submit the forms.” Indications revealed yesterday that some of the APC governorship aspirants are likely to pull out of the race over accusations by some of them that the huge sum was designed by the party’s leadership to edge out some of them. As at the time of filing this report, 14 aspirants have shown interest in the race and are desirous of taking over from Governor Adams Oshiomhole,

create small islands. It’s not going to happen. “And even if we isolate the Fulani herdsmen’s challenge, we still have other pockets of boundary issues in various communities, even within Benin kingdom, within Esanland, within Afemai. So, it seems to me therefore that we cannot expect a world without conflicts, but we can develop the skills to manage and to resolve conflicts when they arise. And that is the purpose of this meeting,” he stated. According to the governor, “Like the migrant Fulani representative said, ‘you cannot decree a solution, but we can work towards a solution.’ And we have to use the carrot and stick approach. We offer incentives and support to those who want to do honest business and severe sanctions for anybody who breaches the rules of engagement, including imprisonment. “The Edo State government will prosecute any rapist, kidnapper, rustler who takes people’s cows. Anybody who infringes on the laws will be dealt with firmly without any sentiment. I believe that is the responsibility of government. “We must reward good behaviour and be hard on

Calabar

ross River State Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade, has taken steps to enlist non-indigenes into the programmes of his administration by engaging them through town

hall meetings. Special Adviser to the Governor on NonIndigene Matters, Musa Abdullahi Maigoro, disclosed this yesterday while speaking to journalists in Calabar. Maigoro, who said the governor has asked him to move round the three

BENIN

he National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) yesterday called on President Muhammadu Buhari, to resign his position as the nation’s Minister of Petroleum Resources and appoint a substantive minister to take full charge of the sector. The students said this has become inevitable if the nation must overcome her present crisis of perennial fuel scarcity. NANS also asked the national economic team headed by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, to be more proactive as the problem of hunger and

starvation was biting hard on the citizens. The stand of the students was made known yesterday during a protest in Benin, the Edo State capital. The students frowned at the dual roles of the President in the tough job of being Commander-inChief and Minister of the nation’s vital sector. According to them, “President Muhammadu Buhari should immediately resign as the Minister of Petroleum Resources as the road work of being Commander-inChief and President is already tasking enough... more hands should be brought in to push the petroleum sector to higher heights."

L-R: Speaker, Cross River House of Assembly, Hon. John Lebo; Governor Ben Ayade and Chief Judge of the state, Justice Okoi Ikpi Itam, shortly after the swearing in of three judges in Calabar… yesterday

66.76%

The percentage contribution of Non-oil taxes to total collection for 2015 Q3. Source: Firs.gov.ng

Kingship tussle: Crisis looms in Delta’s Ubulu-Uku kingdom Dominic Adewole ASABA

new crisis is looming in Ubulu-Uku kingdom, Delta State, as the administrative cadre of the kingdom has placed a curse on any conspiracy or rebellion against the newly crowned monarch, Obi Chukwuka Noah Akaeze I, the Agbogidi. The controversy trail-

Ayade moves to engage non-indigenes in govt Clement James

bad behaviour. That way, people can choose whether to be on the wrong side of the law and suffer from the consequences of breach or enjoy freedom which democracy offers by submitting themselves to the rule of law and conducting their businesses in accordance with agreed rules of engagement. “We will follow up on all that we have discussed. I think clearly, the decision that can be deduced from the various suggestions and comments is that we need, not on adhoc basis, we need to have at least 19 committees, one committee in each of the 18 local government areas.”

Cajetan Mmuta

senatorial districts of the state to explain government programmes to the people, said his major task was how to sensitise non-indigenes on government policies and programmes. He said the governor holds non-indigenes in high esteem.

ing his coronation after his father, Obi Edward Akaeze Ofulue III, was abducted and killed by a gang of kidnappers early this year, assumed a new dimension yesterday. Since the monarch, a 17-year-old boy, returned to the United Kingdom to further his education, several interest groups have rejected him and laid claim to the throne. But the Obi-in-Council, led by the Regent

of the kingdom, Prince Anthony Ofulue, at the palace in Ubulu-Uku, yesterday said they would not fold their arms and watch while a fugitive dancing on the late king’s grave and insults the sensibility of the kingdom. The chiefs warned those with bloated and bogus personality, who have since 2006 engaged the kingdom in empty platitudes to stuff their

ego with a semblance of substance to desist forthwith or risk being banished. Supported by the President General of Ubulu-Uku Development Council, Sir Jones N. Ofunne, the 10 chiefs, flanked by members of the royal family, specifically warned some suspended chiefs to desist from sponsoring abominable stories against the new Obi.

Dickson: Alamieyeseigha’s death’ll redefine Ijaw struggle Chris Ejim Yenagoa

ayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, yesterday said the death of the former governor of the state, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, will not deter the Ijaws and the

people of the Niger Delta, but will rather serve as a catalyst for them to join other democratic forces to fight injustice and oppression in the country. Dickson spoke at a commendation service organised in honour of the late former governor at the weekend, which had in at-

tendance former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife, Patience, Dr. Rachael Seriake Dickson, PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Ali Modu-Sheriff, National Assembly members, including former Akwa Ibom State Governor and Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio, among others.

north | news

tuesday, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

peaker, Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Ali Ahmad, yesterday expressed concern that President Muhammadu Buhari was toying with a possible constitutional crisis over his face-off with the National Assembly on the 2016 Appropriation Bill. Ahmad, who was Chairman, House Committee on Justice in the Seventh Assembly, noted that instead of the military-era approach being employed by the executive arm of government, President Buhari should promote

Budget: Buhari fuelling constitutional crisis –Kwara Speaker

democratic and constitutional approaches in his dealings with the National Assembly. According to the Speaker, the president should operate within the ambit of the constitution, which also include rapprochement with lawmakers. Ahmad, however, insisted that rather than refusing to assent the budget sent to him by the legislature, the president was expected to sign it and return to the

855,270

lawmakers with a supplementary bill to cover areas he felt were excluded from the initial bill. Ahmad also chided the president for alleged delay in signing the 2016 budget, saying it would now take another two to three months to get the budget passed. His words: "What we are saying is that he should operate within the ambit of the Constitution. If you have a president who does not want to interact with the National Assembly, how can he go ahead? All

the state governors have this problem, but because they know how they interact with their legislators, it is resolved. Instead of you to interact, you now went to newspapers to call out that the projects are not in the budget proposal. "Even if it were, Section 81 says, sign it and then go back to make supplementary budget. You can see as they go about as if it is military regime. For God's sake, this is a constitutional government. The first thing to ask in a constitutional government

is to ask what the constitution says. And Section 81 has cleared it. "He should discontinue that approach because every day that the ministry works, it draws money from the federation account and that is unconstitutional. And he is the only one responsible for that. His Attorney-General and Vice President should tell him. He is exposing himself for choosing to operate outside the constitution. "What the president was saying is that some projects were excluded

The total number of interactions on Facebook of Cristiano Ronaldo in February 2016. Source: Goal.com

MINNA

he Senator, representing Niger South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Mustapha Sani Mohammed, has donated relief materials worth over N100 millions to widows and victims of wind storm across eight Local Government Areas of the state. The legislator, yesterday said in Lapai after his visit to the Local Government Areas, which made up the Senatorial district, that the gesture was part of his intervention to assist widows and reduce the plight of people affected by the disaster that occurred between June and July 2015. While commending the lawmaker, the Niger

State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, urged Nigerians to be patient with the state and federal government, adding that the resources available to the country presently is limited, but stressing that things will soon get better. The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Ahmed Ketso, while distributing the relief materials to the people, urged the beneficiaries to utilise the items judiciously in order to better their lives. According to him, "We struggled together and this is the only way we can show appreciation through this kind of empowerment and human capacity building. With this, I hope you will be able to utilise the items for your good and uplifting of your living standard.

Benue varsity students protest hike in tuition fees Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

cademic and administrative activities at the Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi, were yesterday disrupted by the students, who protested against the increment of their tuition fees. The new fees regime, tagged: “Conditional Charges,” was introduced by the management of the university. The students, who trooped out to the streets, blocking the main gate to the university, carried green leaves with placards with various inscriptions, such as “BSU students are

now on strike,” “We don't want conditional review of tuition fees,” among others. When New Telegraph visited the scene of the protest, which began as early as 7:30 am, the students were seen obstructing vehicular movement to and from the campus, including members of staff, who were forced to trek after their plea with the students to allow them to go out. The protest, which lasted till 1:00 pm attracted armed riot policemen, who were drafted to quell the riot and who were stationed at the university main gate to prevent any further breakdown of law and order.

or that allocated finances of some projects were reduced and this has been stated in Section 81, subsection 4a and 4b. Indeed, it is for the President to bring Supplementary Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly. That is what he should have done." "Now, the budget would be made to pass through stages of reading. The constitution knows that this can happen, and it states that when it happens, the President signs it and opts for supplementary approL-R: Former Kano State Military Governor, Col Sani Bello (rtd); Niger State Governor, Dr. Abubakar Sani Bello; former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsami Abubakar (rtd); Sarkin Sudan of Kotangora, Alhaji Sa'idu Namaska and Deputy Governor, Ahmed Mohammed Ketso, at the prayers for late Hajiya Khadija Mu'azu Gwamnah at the Emir's Palace, Kotangora... yesterday.

Widows, flood victims get N100m lifeline in Niger Dan Atori

Sokoto signs MoU with China to boost agriculture Umar Abdullahi Sokoto

eter mined to boost agriculture, the Sokoto State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Henan Province of China for the establishment a demonstration farm and promote the development of agriculture in the state. Under this agreement, Sokoto State has become one of the beneficiaries

of the 100 agricultural projects announced by the Chinese President, Ji Xinping during the SouthSouth Cooperation meeting in September 2015, to be sited in developing countries. The partnership is expected to enhance the application of new technology for cultivation of crops such as corn, wheat, tomatoes and onions. According to a statement from Chinese Government, released by the Media Aide to Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuw-

al, Malam Imam Imam, the MoU provides room for experts from Sokoto State and Henan Province to carry out joint analysis and study on climatic conditions, soil moisture status, crop cultivation techniques and plant protection and quarantine. “It will also promote lease investment and promotion of agricultural machinery between the two parties,” the statement added. Speaking while signing the agreement in Zheng-

zhou, the capital city of Henan Province, Governor Tambuwal said that as the largest producer of food and agricultural machinery in China, Henan Province has a lot of benefits to offer the state. The governor said: "The Province has some of the best agricultural machinery industries in the world, from simple to the complicated equipment. Indeed, having gone round the factories and demonstration farms, we will choose the best one for our state."

Air Force begins free medical Kebbi investigates 100 civil servants over missing N2.5bn treatment in Bauchi

Nankpah Bwakan Bauchi

igeria Air Force yesterday flagged off a two-day free medical outreach in some communities in Bauchi State. The free medical care is part of the activities lined up to commemorate the 52-year anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force, which was flagged off in Gubi and Durum,

the host communities to the Air Force Base in the state and currently under construction. The Commandant of the new 89 Composite Group Bauchi, Air Commodore Sule Lawal said the force medical team will undertake treatment for some illnesses such as malaria and blood test to detect other diseases, eye test and treatment, as well as dental services.

Abubakar Abdul Birnin Kebbi

ebbi State Government has ordered immediate investigation of no fewer than 100 civil servants, who were alleged to have been involved in the N2.5 billion missing funds. The money was said to have been withdrawn by the civil servants between January and May

2015 from the state government’s treasury. Confirming the report to journalists yesterday in his office in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, the Commissioner of Police and the head of the investigation panel, Yakubu Jibrin said that the probe started last week, even as he noted that no fewer than 15 people have so far been interrogated over the alleged missing funds.

TUESday, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sport News

Did you know?

Sport Dalung: Giwa wrong to make appointments U-23 Eagles: Siasia invites 30 players

That Barcelona have only managed to pick one point from the available nine in the last three La Liga games

Adekunle Salami

inister of Youth andSports, Solomon Dalung, has faulted the move by factional President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Chris Giwa, to make appointments and dissolved the board of the federation. Dalung noted that it was wrong for Giwa to have announced any appointments now, rather, he should have allowed the law to run its full course since the matter was already in court. The minister who was reacting through Twitter with his handle @Solomon Dalung also argued that since Giwa had opted to go to court, the club owner should also respect the decision of the NFF President, Amaju Pinnick, to appeal and file for a stay of execution. Dalung who said that the Pinnick-led board had 30-day period for right of appeal also maintained that FIFA cannot do anything to Nigeria since government did not go to court, rather an individual in football family did. According to the statement signed by the minister’s special assistant media, Nneka Anibeze, Dalung said: “This current administration believes in the rule of law and

The Sport Team Adekunle Salami Group Sport Editor

Emmanuel Tobi Assistant Sport Editor

Ajibade Olusesan Sport Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya Sport Correspondent

International

Patience, key to beat Wolfsburg –Zidane

46 47

All those accusing me now are the beneficiaries of NFF crisis because they make allegations to escalate the situation –Minister

Some of Dalung’s tweets Super Eagles striker, Odion Ighalo (left)

all of our actions must be guided by the provisions of the law. Therefore, anything that suggests the contrary will not be in the interest of the nation. “The decision of the court will only take effect if the

right to appeal expires and the Amaju-led board fails to exercise its right. “The announcement of the dissolution of standing committees and appointments by the Giwa-led executive, even when the Amaju-led board

has indicated its right of appeal, cannot promote stability in football. “All parties to the dispute must maintain peace and respect the rule of law. The judicial process must be allowed to run its full course.”

NFF crisis: Sanusi still in charge of secretariat Adeolu Johnson ABUJA

he Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Federation, Mohammed Sanusi, and his lieutenants are still calling the shots at the NFF despite the rulling by the Federal High Court, Jos ruling last week Friday. Both the Amaju Pininck executive board and Chris Giwa-led group who said they would resume office on Monday failed to show up. It also appears that all the

appointments announced by Giwa group last week Friday were merely on paper and unreal. Although, efforts to speak with Sanusi proved abortive as journalists were barred from entering the NFF premises at Zone Seven, Abuja, the GS was sighted moving around the offices, supervising the activities of the federation for the day. Only the NFF secretariat staff members were allowed to enter the office to go about their normal activities. They were initially stopped by the policemen at the complex but

later, they allowed them in. However, as at filing this report, over 35 armed policemen were still on ground to maintain law and order at the soccer house. Speaking with New Telegraph Assistant Superintendent of Police Irek Sunday, said: “we are here to maintain law and order, and not to take sides with any group. “We are working on instructions and police have a way of working, I don’t know what is happening here too, so this place is security zone.”

All those accusing me now are the beneficiaries of the NFF crisis because they make allegations to escalate the situation. All happening today in the NFF is the hypocrisy of FIFA statutes that encourage indiscipline amongst its members while using ban against member nations. All those shouting FIFA ban must know that government did not intervene or went to court so FIFA should discipline its members and not Nigeria. For Giwa who went to court then issued such announcement of dissolution while right of appeal lies to Amaju is unfortunate and bad enough. Under my watch anarchy has no place all those hoping to take office must follow the rule of law anything to the contrary is not acceptable. I will stand for anything that is in the interest of the nation but whatever that is not fair and just I will resist it with all vehemence.

SPORT NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Rio Olympics: Siasia invites 30 players

Harrison Ibukun (Akwa United), Ubong Ekpai (Akwa United), David Itoho (Nath FC), Kabiru Moshood (Ikorodu United), Bright Onyedikachi (FC IfeanyiUbah), Ifeanyi Mathew (Kano Pillars), Tiongoli Tonbara (Bayelsa United), Olisah Ndah (Rivers FC), Julius Emiloju (MFM FC), Joseph Osadiaye (Enyimba FC), Daniel Etor (Enyimba FC), Austine Dimgba (Sunshine Stars), Ezekiel Mbah (Kano Pillars), Abdulrahman Taiwo (Kwara United), Godwin Obaje (Wikki Tourists), Kufre Ebong (Akwa United),Uchenna Agha (Freestans FC),Godwin Aguda (Rangers FC)

...camp resumes today in Abuja Emmanuel Tobi

s part of preparation for the men’s football tournament of this year’s Olympic Games, taking place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Head Coach of the U-23 national team Samson Siasia has invited 30 players to camp. Coach Siasia told thenff.com that the list of invited players led by goalkeeper Emmanuel Daniel, also included old

Chima Akas (right)

Falcons set for Senegalese Lionesses Kick off: 4pm

Charles Ogundiya

fficials for Tuesday’s 2016 Africa Women Cup of Nations qualifying match between Nigeria and Senegal have arrived in Abuja. The Confederation of African Football appointed Zalikatou Traore Diallo from Guinea as the match commissioner, with Veronique Ike Ngomba from Congo as referee. Another Congolese, Julie Kyabuta Kanyembo will be the first assistant while Sacle Marthe Sakobo is the second assistant referee. CAF has replaced Gabonese official Patricia Obone, who was slated to be the reserve referee, but could not make it. with Nigerian’s Foluso Ajayi. The Nigeria Football Fed-

eration General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, welcomed the officials to the match coordination meeting at the NFF secretariat in Abuja on Monday afternoon, assisted by the Acting Director of Competitions, Bola Oyeyode, and the Assistant Director (Communications), Ademola Olajire. Both teams battled to a 1-1 draw in Dakar on Friday, with the Super Falcons set to confirm their indomitability on the African continent on Tuesday. The Super Falcons boast a fearsome strike –force of Asisat Oshoala, Desire Oparanozie, Francisca Ordega and Chioma Wogu, with nimble –footed midfielder Ngozi Okobi also always a threat.

reliables like defender Erhun Obanor, Stanley Dimgba, Kufre Ebong, Ndifreke Effiong, Ubong Ekpai and Daniel Etor. Invitation has also been extended to new players like Godwin Obaje, Julius Emiloju, Ifeanyi Mathew, Kabiru Moshood and Harrison Ibukun. The invited players are expected to arrive the Starview Hotel, Gwarinpa Estate, Abuja on Tuesday, April 12, with their international passports, while training commences on Wednes-

day, April 13. INVITED PLAYERS Emmanuel Daniel (Enugu Rangers), Yusuf Mohammed (Kano Pillars), Daniel Emmanson (Akwa United), Omasteye Alex (First Bank), Sincere Seth (Rhapsody FC), Oduduwa Segun (Nath FC), Obanor Erhun (MFM FC), Ahamefule Chizoba (Abia Warriors),Ndifreke Effiong (Abia Warriors), Chima Akas (Enyimba FC), Timothy Danladi (Katsina United), Stanley Okorom (MFM FC),

Enyimba ready for war in Tunisia, says Udoh Emmanuel Tobi

nyimba striker, Mfon Udoh, has stated that the team is poised for a tough battle in Tunisia in the reverse fixture after inspiring the Aba Elephant to a 3-0 win over Etoile du Sahel in the CAF Champions League on Sunday. Udoh whose hat trick nailed Etoile as Enyimba made a step closer to the money-spinning stage of the CAF Champions League, said the team was ready for war in Tunisia and would not get carried away with the first leg results.

The Super Eagles striker was on target in the 9th, 55th and 80th minutes as the Nigeria champions took a big advantage leading to the return leg in Sousse in the weekend of April 19-22. “We know it is not over yet because the return leg is going to be tougher in Tunisia but we are ready for the war. We are not carried away by the result,” he said. “Scoring three goals against a great team like Etoile is no mean feat and I appreciate my teammates and coaches for the support,” he aded. Udoh is now the leading scorer in the competition with seven goals.

Udoh

NFF CRISIS: AMAJU PINNICK VS CHRIS GIWA

FIFA warns Nigeria Ajibade Olusesan

IFA has threatened to ban Nigeria if the court ruling that annulled the elections of the Amaju Pinnick-led board of the Nigeria Football Federation is implemented. The world football governing body in a letter dated April 11, 2017 and signed by Acting Secretary General Markus Kattner, said that the ruling by the Federal High Court Jos was an interference in the internal affairs of the NFF and could get Nigeria sanctioned if carried out. “The decision of the Federal High Court in Jos, if implemented, would likely be considered as interference in the internal affairs of the NFF and the case would be brought to the highest authorities of

FIFA for consideration of sanctions, including the suspension of the NFF,” the letter, a copy of which was obtained by our correspondent, read in part. “We would Iike to remind you that according to articles 13 and 17 of the FIFA Statutes, all members associations have to manage their affairs independently and with no influence from third parties In addition and according to article 68 of the FIFA Statutes, recourse to ordinary courts of Iaw is prohibited unless specifically provided for in the FIFA regulations. “Furthermore, it is the duty of each member association to ensure that these provisions are implemented by its members and possibly take sanctions against those who fail to respect Oneya these obligations.”

Election process needs restructuring –Adamu

Adamu

ormer CAF and FIFA executive member, Amos Adamu, has canvassed for restructuring of electoral process that will accommodate compensation mechanism for losers in the election into the Nigeria Football Federation. The former NFF Sole Administrator was speaking on the heels of the recent crisis rocking Nigerian football

since the April 8th Court ruling nullifying the congress and eventual elections of the Amaju Pinnick-led board in a case brought before it by club owner, Chris Giwa. Adamu, who was Nigeria’s highest football administrator in FIFA, insists that there is need to pacify candidates who lost in such elections in order to forestall incessant crisis in Nigerian football.

Oneya: Crisis, a big shame A former NFF President, General Dominic Oneya (rtd), has flayed the current crisis in Nigerian football, foisted by a court ruling on a case re-filed by club owner, Chris Giwa. Speaking on Monday, the member of the CAF Organising Committee for the African Nations Championship described the current situation as “shameful” and “patently unbefitting of a strong footballing nation like Nigeria that has high global reckoning.” He said: “I feel very sad, even uncomfortable, that this is happening in Nigeria at this time. Certainly, FIFA and CAF will not be happy with us and may go for strong sanctions against our country. “This is a period that every stakeholder should focus on the qualification series for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, with our coun-

try having missed out on the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations competition. We also have the Olympics football tournament and some women tournaments coming up. “This is not the time for distractions. I want to specially appeal to Giwa to sheathe his sword and allow peace to reign. We will gain nothing other than a FIFA suspension from these activities. I regard him as a big stakeholder because he has been investing in the game. But in football, there are mechanisms for dispute resolution. “FIFA, CAF and NFF have it in their different statutes that you don’t take football matters to ordinary courts. It is there, clearly spelt out. If Giwa is dissatisfied with the verdicts he received earlier, he can still take the case back to FIFA, and onwards to CAS. That is the proper way to go.”

INTERNATIONAL SPORT

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

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Panama’s president: Tax evasion, a global problem

UCL FIXTURES

Tuesday Man City vs PSG 7:45pm Real Madrid vs Wolfsburg 7:45pm

Papers published in public interest–Editor

T Ronaldo (right) battling for the ball with Wolfsburg goalkeeper

Patience, key to beat Wolfsburg –Zidane

eal Madrid must play with patience against VfL Wolfsburg when they try to overturn a 2-0 deficit in Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final second leg, manager Zinedine Zidane said. The Real players have cranked up the atmosphere before the match at the Bernabeu with defender Dani Carvajal say-

ing it would be like a war, but Zidane is wary of his players becoming overexcited during the match. “There are a lot of messages about firing ourselves up but we need the opposite, it’s a hugely important game and we have to use our heads,” Zidane told a news conference on Monday. “We’re not going to win the game in 10 or 15 min-

utes, and they could really complicate things if they score a goal. Anything can happen in football, but we have to be concentrated from the first minute. “Above all we need to play football,” he added. “They (Wolfsburg) are going to start with intensity and we need the same intensity and it’s going to be decided with the ball, how much we fight and run.”

Infantino defiant over Panama Papers’ claims

IFA president, Gianni Infantino, has again insisted he is not guilty of any wrongdoing following reports linking him to the ‘Panama Papers’ leak. Last week, widely released reports claimed that documents within the ‘Panama Papers’ - which have been leaked from law firm Mossack Fonseca to the international press indicated that, during his time as UEFA’s director of legal services, Infantino signed off on a deal to sell South American broadcasting rights for the Champions League, UEFA Cup and Super Cup to a company called Cross Trading in 2006. The leaked papers allegedly show that Cross Trading subsequently sold these rights on at a

significant mark up. Infantino released a statement last Tuesday saying he was “dismayed” by questions over his integrity and the 46-year-old also welcomed Wednesday’s raid on Uefa’s Nyon headquarters by Swiss Federal Police.

Infantino

he President of Panama, Juan Varela, has criticised the singling out of his country for the various tax dodging schemes revealed in the massive data breach known as Panama Papers. “Panama does not deserve to be singled out on an issue that plagues many countries,’’ Varela said, adding that the problem of tax evasion was a global one. International Consortium of Investigative Journalists revealed that thousands of offshore tax havens in which politicians, sports stars and celebrities from over 80 countries hid their money. The leaked information, amounting to millions of documents, came from

the Panama-based law firm Mossack Fonseca, which set up the many shell companies. “In spite of their names, the Panama Papers are not mainly about Panama, they are not even primarily concerned with Panamanian companies. “But we are willing to accept the responsibility for fixing it. “The world must tackle this problem collectively and with urgency, and Panama stands ready to lead the way,’’ Varela said. The editor of the German newspaper that broke the Panama Papers story said yesterday he did not know exactly where his team’s source got the information but defended his decision to publish on the basis of the public interest.

Wolfgang Krach, coeditor-in-chief of the Sueddeutsche Zeitung, said a source who introduced themselves as “John Doe” contacted the paper a year ago and with an offer of encrypted internal documents from Panamanian law firm Mossack Fonseca. Sueddeutsche, realizing the sheer number of documents to be scrutinized, began working with a consortium of other media organizations before publishing the Panama Papers story that has shone a light on the financial schemes of the world’s elite. “We don’t know how this source came upon the information,” Krach told Reuters by telephone from his office in Munich.

View of a session of the lower house special committee on the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff in Brasilia... yesterday.

Kiptoo, Njeru top list Obama admits Libya as ‘worst mistake’ of Okpekpe elite cast Charles Ogundiya

enyan duo of Edwin Kiprop Kiptoo and Polline Wanjiku Njeru top the cast of gold level men and women elite athletes who will be competing for the $15,000 top prize on offer at the IAAF Bronze Label fourth Okpekpe In-

Leicester plan title bus parade eicester City have reportedly been in touch with the local council to discuss preparations for an open-top bus parade around the city. Following Sunday’s victory over Sunderland, the Foxes are now within just three wins of securing a historic English Premier League title. “With the club being top of the table we have spoken to the club about a parade,” a Leicester City Council source told The Sun. “But

they made it clear that they don’t want to think about setting a date just yet. “They are fully focused on winning football matches and it is something they will look at closely once they need to.” Leicester’s participation in next season’s Champions League was confirmed last night as Spurs defeated Manchester United, although manager Claudio Ranieri has urged caution as they look to wrap up the championship.

ternational 10km Road Race. Kiptoo who ran 1:01:21 to place ninth at last month’s IAAF/Cardiff University World Half Marathon Championships in Cardiff, Wales will lead into Okpekpe three other men who are gold level elite runners while Njeru will also head the cast of three other women who are also of gold level rating. “We also have other elite athletes who are of silver level running confirmed for the race,’ said Dare Esan spokesman for the race. “The IAAF requirements for the Okpekpe race is that we should have elite athletes who are of bronze level ratings because of its bronze label status but we want to elevate the status of the event to silver next year hence the need to go beyond the requirements for a bronze label race,’’ Esan added.

S P re s i d e n t Barack Obama has said failing to prepare for the aftermath of the ousting of Libyan leader Col Muammar Gaddafi was the worst mistake of his presidency. Mr. Obama was answering a series of questions on the highs and lows of his time in office on Fox News. He said, however, that intervening in Libya had

been “the right thing to do”. The US and other countries carried out strikes designed to protect civilians during the 2011 uprising. But after the former Libyan leader was killed, Libya plunged into chaos with militias taking over and two rival parliaments and governments forming. So called Islamic State (IS) gained a foothold, and Libya became a major departure point for migrants

trying to reach Europe. A UN backed national unity government arrived in the capital Tripoli earlier this month but is waiting to take charge. The leader of the faction ruling western Libya has threatened to prosecute any of his ministers who co-operate with the UN backed administration, contradicting an earlier announcement the ministers would stand down.

Somalia executes al-Shabab journalist

Somali journalist who helped al-Shabab kill five fellow reporters has been executed by firing squad. Hassan Hanafi, once a respected broadcaster, was sentenced to death last month by a military court in the capital, Mogadishu. He assisted the Islamist militant group

by identifying possible targets amongst journalists between 2007 and 2011. He joined its armed wing after working for Radio Andalus, al-Shabab’s mouthpiece in Somalia. More than 25 journalists have been murdered in Somalia since 2007, the Committee to Protect Jour nalists says. While he was

working for al-Shabab, Hanafi would call up journalists and threaten them with death if they refused to join the militant group, the BBC Somali’s Mohammud Ali says. Al-Shabab frequently stages attacks in Mogadishu and other cities, and still controls many rural areas in souther n Somalia.

On Marble A man is never more truthful than

when he acknowledges himself a liar.

– Mark Twain

Clem Aguiyi

Sanctity of Truth

Will Obiano work against Obi’s interest?

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2016

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}14

Between Ayo Fayose and yours truly (2) CONTINUED FROM LAST TUESDAY

ne thing I should add is thisif Ayo Fayose were not Governor of Ekiti state nothing would change and he would still be the lion that he is. It is not the office that makes the man but the man that makes the office. If he were not Governor he would still be as virulent and courageous in his attacks against injustice and this unjust government as he is today. That is what makes the difference between him and others. He is Ayo Fayose and, like Peter the Rock, nothing moves him. Now back to yours truly. As unworthy as I am, I am what I am. As unlikely as I am, I am who I am. As unprepared as I am, I am as I am. As unfit as I am, I am how I am. I am David, Oluwafemi, ‘’the beloved of the Lord’’: I fear no evil that man can do to me. I am Abdul Latif, ‘’the Servant of the Merciful God’’: I fear no devil, no demon, no mortal, no liar, no beast and no tyrant. If only they knew my testimony they would understand why this is so. I died many years ago but the Lord raised me up. He restored me and anointed me to honour Him and to serve my nation. The story has only just started. The journey has just begun. The book has just been open. I live for Him alone. I thrive at His pleasure and I flourish for His leisure. He guides my steps and makes every crooked path straight before me. He makes a way for me where there seems to be no way. I belong to Him and to none other. I am His battle axe in times of war and His tool of judgement in the season of conflict, vengeance and retribution. I am His vessel for perfection: He displays His glory and power in and through me. I am His messenger of joy and peace and through my words and actions He brings inspiration, encouragement, hope, solace, strength and comfort to the afflicted in spirit, the blind, the weak, the wounded, the broken, the poor, the hopeless, the persecuted, the sick, the wrongly accused and the oppressed. Like David the slayer of Goliath and the greatest King of Israel, I am imperfect and flawed in so many ways yet He loves me all the same because He sees my heart. I ask myself, why me? Why should I be the object of such love, grace, favour and mercy? Why should I be the suppository of a such a great gift and such a wonderful privilege. He answers by saying it is because He knew me before I was formed in my mothers womb. He tells me that it is because He proves His word and He uses the foolish things of this world to confound the wisdom of the wise. So many wrote me off in the past and yet they came back and bowed before me because of God’s resurrection power. So many tried to hurt and destroy me for no just cause and yet they came back to confess their sins and evil deeds against me because of God’s resurrection power.

Crossfire FEMI FANI-KAYODE ffk2011@aol.com

Fayose

So many spoke ill of me and bore false witness against me over the years and yet they were forced to eat their words. So many broke my heart and left me to die yet the Lord healed me and replaced them and He gave me joy in abundance. Of the nine that tried to jail me for seven long years with malicious and false allegations and baseless criminal cases some lost their lives, some lost their liberty, some lost their health, some lost their children, some lost their dreams and aspirations and some lost their profession, reputations, fortunes, careers and minds. I was amazed as these things unfolded because it was not by the hand of any man but by the finger of God. They all fell one after the other and they are still falling up until today. Yet despite numerous challenges I am still standing, going from strength to strength and waxing stronger and stronger in the battle of life. They say destiny speaks at the end. My destiny will speak for me. It will be manifest at the end and that is all I wait for. That is what I was born for: to achieve God’s purpose and for that purpose to be made manifest and to be established in my life. Till then let the mockers mock. Let the skeptics be skeptical. Let the traitors betray. Let the schemers scheme. Let the liars lie. Let the conspirators conspire. Let the demons rage. Let the heathens plot. Let the vultures gather. Let the pagans plan. Let the powers that be threaten and let them do their very worse. For God has spoken through His holy word that “when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will

raise a standard against him”. The Lord is with me and mine and He has raised his standard against our enemies. I make my boast in Him and none other. I am nothing without Him. Yet I am all things and everything through Him and with Him. If my enemies knew the kind of things that I have been through in my life, the kind of challenges that I have faced, the kind of battles that I have fought, the kind of trials and tribulations that I have been subjected to, the kind of betrayals that I have experienced, the kind of pain that I have suffered and the kind of beasts and demons that I have fought they would think twice about coming against me. This is because God always pulls me through and in the end I always win. The Lord gives kings as ransom for our sake and he pulls down evil rulers and governments for the sake of his anointed. When you fight against me you fight against all the elemental forces: the wind, the fire, the water and the earth. When you come against me you come against all the forces of the cosmos and the universe: the stars, the moon, the

sun, the galaxy and all of creation because the Creator Himself sent me and I am His servant. When you come against me you come against the awesome power of the Most High God and the fury of the Hosts of Heaven. When you fight against me you fight against the consuming fire of the Holy Spirit and the crushing power of the Living God. When you seek to destroy me you cannot win because I am hidden in the arms of the Resurrected Lord. When you seek to trouble me you cannot survive it because you seek to trouble our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ of Nazareth, the Second Person of the Holy Trinity and the Son of the Living God. The Lord has given me victory and power in all things and all those that hate me shall bow before me or perish. Like the Viking Warrior-King Beowulf, I cannot be brought down, defeated or destroyed by any force on earth or from hell: not because I am anything or anyone special but because I am in the Lord and the Lord He is in me. Not because I am well-educated and well-bred but because, like the David the son of Jesse, He is my strength, my shield, my glory and the lifter of my head. I cannot be cut short or defeated and I cannot die before my time. I cannot and will not leave the earthly plain and realm until my work on earth is done because I have a covenant with the Ancient of Days. I am a son of He that is high and lifted up and whose train fills the temple.

Printed and Published by Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Ltd: Head Office: No. 1A, Ajumobi Street, Off ACME Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja-Lagos. Tel: +234 1-2219496, 2219498. Abuja Office: Orji Kalu House, Plot 322, by Banex Junction, Mabushi, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Advert Hotlines: (Lagos 0902 928 1425), (Abuja 0805 5118488) Email: info@newtelegraphonline.com Website: www.newtelegraphonline.com ISSN 2354-4317 Editor: AYODELE OJO.