Tuesday, april 19, 2016 binder1 by Newtelegraphonline

Shell pays N8.4trn to Nigeria in four years Adeola Yusuf

oyal Dutch Shell (Shell) declared yesterday that it had paid a total sum of N8.4 trillion ($42 billion) as its

economic contribution to the Nigerian government in the last four years, from 2011 to 2015. Shell Petroleum Devel-

opment Company Joint venture and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SPDC JV and SNEPCo) jointly con-

tributed $145.1 million to Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in 2015. Of the amount, Shell

contributed $62.3 million, the oil firm said in its Sustainability Report for 2015, which describes how it is working responsibly

Labour pickets Ikeja, Jos DISCOs over workers’ sack

to help meet the world’s growing demand for energy. Shell and SNEPCo also paid $1.1 billion to Nigerian government as royalties and corporate taxes in 2015, with SPDC contributing $0.6 billion and SNEPCo $0.5 billion. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Sanctity Of Truth

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Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Zoning: Metuh, Chikwe, others lose out }4

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Vol. 3 No. 790

Metuh

Abia North: Tribunal throws out Ohuabunwa’s motion }41

Police probe four officers for robbery }8

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Pensioner slumps, dies over omission on payroll }9

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Arms scandal: Panel quizzes Service Chief Ohuabunwa

Owoseni

Ishaku

Ex-Chief of Naval Staff indicted Army General refunds N2bn EFCC to begin prosecution of indicted firms }2 Saraki failed to declare all assets, FG insists }4

Senate President Bukola Saraki, during his trial on false declaration of assets at the Code of Conduct Tribunal in Abuja… yesterday PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

Car purchase: Senators insensitive, greedy –NLC, TUC ...demand prosecution of lawmakers

Antibiotics resistance may kill 10m people annually }7

NEWS

TUESday, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Arms scandal: Panel quizzes Service Chief Our Correspondent

he presidential panel probing arms purchase between 2007 and 2015 has quizzed one of the serving service chiefs. Highly placed sources who spoke with New Telegraph on condition of anonymity, said that the service chief, who was involved in some aspects of the on-going counter-insurgency operations, has appeared twice or thrice before the 13-man probe panel. It was gathered that the military chief, during the appearances, explained what he knew on procurements and logistics. He was also said to have defended some officers in the course of his presentation before the panel. It was, however, learnt that he sounded confident, as a result of what one of the sources said was his “incorruptible disposition” in both private and official conducts. “I can confirm to you that one of our service chiefs has appeared before the arms panel, to throw some light on issues the panel needed clarification about. “I need to warn that the service chief did not go there on account of any indictment, but just to help the panel clear some issues. “There is no cause

for alarm, because he is known to be an upright man that even the devil cannot influence,” he said. Also, startling revelations have continued to emanate from the sittings of the Presidential Audit Panel, with the latest being the disclosure by a man that a large amount of money was allegedly paid into his account on the instruction of a former Chief of Naval Staff (name withheld). New Telegraph learnt from informed sources that the man, who is said to be a close friend of the former Naval Chief, had approached the panel, with a view to returning the said money, which he said he neither worked nor asked for. One of the sources said that the panel, conscious of its terms of reference, which did not include receiving of funds, directed him to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). It was, however, not clear if he has visited the Abuja headquarters of the anti-graft agency, about two weeks after he made the surprise appearance before the audit panel. “You know, interesting discoveries are being made by the panel. Do you know that about two weeks ago, a civilian, who is a friend of a former Chief of Naval Staff, walked into the

Oil production output hope hits the rock Adeola Yusuf

rouble loomed yesterday for the 2016 budget as the hope of Nigeria getting oil price up through output freeze by Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) hit the rock. This came as a meeting by major exporters in Qatar collapsed without an agreement to freeze output, sliding the oil prices further. Nigeria, Africa's biggest crude exporter, had benchmarked oil price at $38 per barrel in the 2016 budget, with hope that the prices of the commodity would not fall below the mark. The oil price, however, tumbled to $40 per barrel yesterday with fears that the inability to get the output freeze would crash the prices further. Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, who had been at the forefront of talks to get OPEC to freeze output, was at the meeting yesterday. Kachikwu expressed optimism at the weekend that

the campaign for output freeze would be successful. Tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran were, however, blamed for the failure, which revived industry fears that major government-controlled producers would increase their battle for market share by offering ever-steeper discounts. The failure also led to the credibility of the OPEC producer cartel in tatters and the world awash with unwanted fuel. Oil prices have fallen by as much as 70 per cent since mid-2014 as producers have pumped one to two million barrels of crude every day in excess of demand. The oversupply has led storage tanks around the world filled to the brim with unsold fuel. Sunday's meeting in Qatar's capital, Doha, had been expected to finalise a deal to freeze output at January levels until October 2016 in an attempt to slow the ballooning oversupply. But the agreement fell apart after top exporter, Saudi Arabia, demanded that Iran, which was not represented, should also sign up.

committee that he wanted to refund money the exNaval Chief paid into his company’s account? “The man said he did not do any work, but that the money was paid into his account on the instruction of his friend, the Naval Chief. “The committee said there was a procedure to follow, which required him to go and make the refund at the EFCC,” the source said. The development comes as the panel begins scrutiny of procurement papers in the Nigerian Navy between 2007 and 2015. Already, the 13-man panel has released interim reports on the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and Nigerian Army (NA) respectively, wherein it indicted top politicians, senior serving and retired military officers, including firms. Some of those recommended for further investigation included a former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh (rtd); an ex-

Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Amosu (rtd); another CAS, Air Marshal M.D Umar (rtd); former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), among other retired and serving senior officers. Badeh is being prosecuted by the EFCC at a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja while Amosu has been released from custody. Also, New Telegraph has learnt that a two-star General, who headed one of the military special task forces, was said to have returned about N2 billion. It was gathered that the staggering amount was collected from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). The serving General headed one of the task forces in the military and collected N4 billion from NIMASA to upgrade some military facilities in one of the states in South-South. New Telegraph learnt that the officer had appeared before the presidential panel auditing arms

procurement between 2007 and 2015. During his appearance, the Army General stated that he collected the money to build some structures in a barrack in the SouthSouth. “The panel made some discoveries while probing funds meant for maritime security. In the process, a Major General was discovered to have collected over N4 billion from NIMASA to handle certain projects in one of the military formations in the South-South, which he headed. “But from findings, what he spent from the N4 billion he collected was not up to N250 million. So, he has been interrogated by the arms panel and there was no convincing explanation on the utilisation of the huge sum. We strongly

N687.25m

The IGR realized from other revenue sources of Yobe State in 2012. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

believe that he has a case to answer and the officer will definitely be prosecuted in court by the EFCC. He is not alone. There are other officers that have been implicated in the scandal,” a source familiar with the investigation had told New Telegraph. Meanwhile, there are strong indications that the EFCC will soon charge some firms and persons indicted in the $2.1 billion arms purchase scandal that rocked the Office of National Security Adviser (ONSA) under Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd). New Telegraph learnt from highly placed sources that the decision to begin the arraignment and prosecution of some of the indicted firms and persons is fallout of further investigation carried out by the anti-graft agency, as recommend by the 13-man audit panel. It will be recalled that the panel auditing arms procurement between 2007 and 2015 had indicted over CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Wife of the President, Mrs. Aisha Buhari (right) consoling parents of slain students of Buni Yadi Secondary School of Yobe State in Abuja...yesterday.

Shell pays N8.4trn to Nigeria in 4 years CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Direct spending on social investment projects in 2015 by SPDC JV and SNEPCo was $50.4 million, with Shell accounting for $15.4 million. Shell Companies in Nigeria (SCiN) spent $0.9 billion on local contracting and procurement with 93 per cent of all contracts awarded to Nigerians. The report added that as at October 2015, 94 per cent of SCiN employees were Nigerians. “In addition to SPDC and SNEPCo, Shell also holds interests in a number of offshore licences, including the Shell-operated Bonga field (Shell interest 55%). Shell also has a 25.6 per cent interest in Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), which exports LNG around the world,” the report stated.

In his introduction to the Sustainability Report, Shell’s Chief Executive Officer, Ben van Beurden, said it was a significant year for the global community in 2015 with the adoption of the historic Paris Agreement by 195 countries, demonstrating a commitment to bring about a lower-carbon energy system. Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State government has sealed the premises of Gbaran Ubie Integrated Oil and Gas facility, a property of Shell Petroleum Company of Nigeria Ltd. A statement issued yesterday by the Executive Secretary of Bayelsa State Physical Planning and Development Board, Chief Boro Ige-Edaba, said the sealing of the company located in Gbarantoru in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa

State, followed an eviction order issued by the State High Court in Yenagoa. The eviction order had granted the government leave to effect the eviction of SPDC and all occupants of the premises to enable the Physical Planning and Development Board conduct environmental, health, technical integrity and safety checks on the facility. The facility was said to have been built without a building permit (called Development Permit) as required by law. The court had also directed the Commissioner of Police, the Commander of the Joint Task Force (JTF) and all security agencies to facilitate the enforcement of the eviction. Ige-Edaba said: "The Gbaran Ubie facility was developed by Shell on about two million square metre

of land in Bayelsa State without a development permit contrary to the provisions of the law and commissioned in 2010 despite subsisting stop-work order and notice to discontinue the development without the permit…. "Despite all notices served on Shell since the commencement of the law in 2015, the company neglected, refused and failed to comply with the provisions and requirements of the law and regulations made pursuant to the law." The court had also ordered that all the occupants of the Gbaran Ubie Integrated Oil and Gas Project and all its affiliated facilities in Bayelsa State to stay and remain evicted until the company complies with all the requirements of the Bayelsa State Physical Planning and Development Law 2015.

TUESday, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

NEWS

TUESday, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Saraki failed to declare all assets, FG insists

lMy trial won't disturb Senate proceedings –President Tunde Oyesina and Chukwu David

he Federal Government yesterday insisted that Senate President Bukola Saraki failed to declare some landed property in the assets declaration forms submitted to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB). The detective from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and a prosecution witness, Micheal Wetkas, told the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) that the Senate President failed to declare his property located at No 1 and No 3, Targus Street, Maitama, Abuja in the assets decla-

ration he made in 2007 and 2011, even though he has acquired those property before he became governor of Kwara State. The witness also told the tribunal that although, the assets declaration form made provision for a column for factories, ranches, farms and enterprises, Saraki wrote in the column that, "I do not have", while investigation revealed that he has several companies. According to Wetkas, the Senate President has substantial and controlling shares in Skyview Property Limited, Carlie Property and Investment Limited, Babs Trading and Manufacturing Limited, Delta Foods Limited, Lintas Limited, Orion-Agro

Limited, PPI Limited, Bastone Limited, and Quality Packaging Limited, among others. He told the Tribunal also that property on No. 15 A and B, Mcdonald, Ikoyi, Lagos that were declared by Saraki in his assets declaration form were bought in the name of Carlie Property and Investment Limited from the Presidential Implementation Committee on the Sales of Federal Government Property. The tribunal admitted 17 more exhibits as proof that Saraki owned the property in question. Among the documents tendered through the witness by the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) include GTB Plc. bank draft of N256.3 mil-

lion, N12.8 million and another N24 million as part payment for property on No. 17 Mcdonald Street, Ikoyi, Lagos by the defendant. "There is another draft of N180.6 million dated April 3, 2007. We have another draft for N36.1 million dated January 10, 2007, both as part payment of the No 17, Mcdonald Street, Ikoyi, Lagos," Wetkas told the tribunal. He said even though the policy of the presidential committee does not allow anybody to buy more than one property, the Senate President bought three of the property from the committee, saying that the property No 17 and 17A Mcdonald Street, Ikoyi were acquired in Saraki's

L-R: (Back row) President Muhammadu Buhari and President, People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping. (Front row) President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chairman of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), Mr. Jiang Jianqing and Chairman, China Export and Credit Insurance Corporation (SINOSURE), Mr. Wang Yi, during the signing of $2 billion loan from ICBC for two cement plants, in Beijing, China… recently

Zoning: Metuh, Chikwe, others lose out

Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

he hope of some National Working Committee (NWC) members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of returning after the May 21 National Convention of the party might have been dashed by the proposal made by Governor Emmanuel Udom-led committee for the zoning of the national offices. The committee, which met in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State over the weekend, zoned the National Chairmanship position to NorthEast, Deputy National Chairman to South-South while the South-West still retains the position of National Secretary. However, the post of National Publicity Secretary, which was zoned to South-East in 2012, now goes to South-West while that of National Woman Leader goes to North-West (as against South East).

The office of National Treasurer which has been in North-East since 2012 has been zoned to North Central while South-East is expected to produce the National Organising Secretary position, which is currently in North-West. The recommendation is, however, subject to ratification by various organs of the party. The implication of the latest zoning formula means that the hope of Chief Olisa Metuh, the PDP National Publicity Secretary and Mrs. Kema Chikwe, the National Woman Leader, to be part of the next NWC is dashed. Also to lose their positions in the NWC are Bala Buhari, the National Treasurer and Abubakar Mustapha, the National Organising Secretary. Metuh had earlier said he would be retiring after the National Convention having spent 17 years as an official of PDP. He reiterated this last

week when he bemoaned his present corruption trial in court, expressing the fears that some people might use the opportunity to disgrace him and put an end to his political career. "We know this game," he boasted. Metuh, however, hinted that he might still change his mind and run for elective position at the convention. A source disclosed that the outgoing National Publicity Secretary is warming up to vie for the position of National Organising Secretary which has now been zoned to South-East.

3.03

The average stay of football players of England in 2010-2011. Source: Football-observatory.com

25%

The percentage by which shares of IBM fell since February 2015. Source: Forbes.com

personal name, while the Property No 15, Mcdonald Street was bought under the name of Carlie Property and Investment Limited. He said investigation revealed a list of property Saraki owned, one of which include Rustos Garden with nine property that yields a total income of N126 million per annum, which he also failed to declare. Under cross examination by Saraki’s lead counsel, Kanu Agabi (SAN), the witness told the tribunal that it was the prosecutor who told him to file a summary report of his findings and activities during investigation. According to him, he filed the charge against the Senate President on September 14, 2015, the witness report, which form part of proof of evidence filed on October 30, 2015. He said what his team investigated was based on intelligence report. The witness also told the tribunal that he did not investigate the pension scheme of Kwara State and did not know the entitlement of the defendant. The witness had, last week, told the tribunal that Saraki was receiving monthly salaries from the Kwara State government for four years after the expiration of his tenure as governor of Kwara State. The Senate President was arraigned by the antigraft agency on a 13-count charge bordering on allegations of false asset

declaration and money laundering. He had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charges slammed against him by the federal government. Meanwhile, Saraki has said that his trial would not disturb the activities of the Senate. Saraki gave this assurance in a statement signed by his media adviser, Mr. Yusuph Olaniyonu. According to the statement, Saraki stated this after the tribunal chairman, Mr. Danladi Umar, announced that the proceedings in the trial would now hold on a daily basis. It would be recalled that at the preliminary stage of the trial, senators had always accompanied the Senate President to the tribunal each time the case came up for hearing. However, Saraki said now that the trial proper had commenced and the Senate was in session, he would not want the trial to affect legislative proceedings in the Upper Chamber. "I am the one on trial not the Senate. Even though I have been overwhelmed by the solidarity displayed by my colleagues, it is important that the work of the Senate is not unduly affected by this process," he said. The President of the Senate affirmed that the legislative body being an institution, would not be affected by the absence of any of the principal or presiding officers.

Arms scandal: Ex-Chief of Naval Staff indicted CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

300 contractors and prominent individuals it believed had allegedly failed the test of transparency and accountability in the contracts award. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, had, on March 24, released the names of indicted firms and individuals, in a statement conveying the panel’s recommendation for a further investigation by the EFCC. Speaking with New Telegraph on the condition of anonymity, one of the sources said: “Very soon, the commission will charge some of the contractors and individuals that the panel indicted, to court. “The commission had commenced investigations shortly after the panel’s report was released and I can assure you that for those who feel they would retain public funds, we have overwhelming evidence to prosecute them in court. “EFCC will not let those

found wanting, including corporate entities, to have any rest whatsoever, until all that was taken is accounted for, and returned into the Federation Account,” he said. He noted that “so far, recoveries have been made on different fronts, but that is all you need to know.” Asked if the anti-graft agency will not be overwhelmed, if it elected to charge all who may insist on not returning money to court at the same time, he queried: “How can all those that have been indicted be charged to court at the same time?" It was, however, learnt that those who have since made refunds as recommended by the panel, may not be prosecuted, depending on the consideration of the commission, “which is better positioned now, to tackle corruption, owing to the political will and total support by President Muhammadu Buhari.” The Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, could not be reached for com-

ment. Among the companies indicted by the Presidential panel, was Destra Investment Limited, owned by the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh. Destra Investment Limited and Metuh are already standing trial before Justice Okon Abang of a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on a seven-count charge bordering on alleged fraud. In the statement, Shehu had said, among others, that: “The committee has made attempts and succeeded in recovering some of the funds from these individuals and organisations, amounting to N3.537 billion; $8 million; and houses worth N512 million from 32 companies. “The committee also established that some individuals and companies received monies without evidence of contractual agreements or jobs done. The amount received by these individuals was N7,104,925,000.”

NEWS

TUESday, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Car purchase: Senators insensitive, greedy –NLC, TUC

Sunday Ojeme and Yekeen Nurudeen

he Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have described as insensitive the recent moves by the senators to acquire 108 Toyota Land Cruiser jeeps worth about N4 billion for every member after collecting car loans for the same purpose. The unions, while condemning the act, said it was criminal for the lawmakers to acquire cars after collecting loans for the same purpose in less than one year. The labour movement described the car purchase as despicable and shame-

ful act. The workers’ unions demand the return of the cars to the supplier and prosecution of the lawmakers for corruption. The Senate had already started taking delivery of the vehicles as the first set of the Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV), numbering 36, were delivered last Tuesday and distributed to some senators last Wednesday. Only the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, is excluded from getting the car as he had, in February, acquired official cars at the cost of N330 million, despite reservations expressed by Nigerians. The vehicles were also said to have been purchased for N35.1 million

each, which is double the price of the same at automobile market as it goes for N17 million. NLC, in a statement issued in Abuja yesterday by its president, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, described the inflation of the unit cost of each car as a willful, grievous and criminal act. "We at the Nigeria Labour Congress equally consider it a willful and grievous criminal act, the inflation of the unit cost of each of the cars by over a 100 per cent, as each car supposedly cost N35.1 million instead of N17 million" it said. NLC warned that it shall be left with no option than to mobilise Nigerian workers, its civil

society allies, including market women and students against the senators if they failed to return the cars or be prosecuted by relevant agencies for corruption. While declaring the action of the lawmakers as morally despicable and shameful, the NLC lamented that the senators acquired the exotic cars after publicly admitting that the standing committees of the Senate were unable to perform their statutory functions due to paucity of funds. "We consider appalling, insensitive and greedy the decision of the Senate to acquire 108 Toyota Land Cruiser jeeps (one for each member less the Senate President) after collecting

A cross section of protesters demanding regular supply of electricity at the Ikeja Electric office, Alausa, Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

car "loans" in August last year for the same purpose. “It is equally morally despicable and shameful that they are doing this after publicly admitting that the standing committees of the Senate are unable to perform their statutory functions due to paucity of funds," NLC said. The NLC further stated that Nigerians are keen to know from where the senators got money for the purchase of the cars without appropriation. This was as it argued that the defence offered by the Senate spokesperson, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, is laughable and childish. “At a time with severe economic challenges and deepening poverty in the land, can the Senate afford this level of reckless luxury and arrogance? The answer is, no. “Their multiple acts of criminality, ranging from acquiring these cars after previously taking loans for the same purpose; spending money without appropriation and overinflating costs, constitute not just corruption, but a crime against the Nigerian people whom they claim to represent. “Accordingly, we demand they return those cars to whoever supplied them or the appropriate agencies prosecute them for corruption. In the event none of this happens, they should be prepared to keep a date with Nigerian workers and their civil society

Labour pickets Ikeja, Jos DISCOs over workers’ sack Sunday Ojeme

embers of the organised labour union yesterday sealed off the entrance of Ikeja Electric in Lagos following the discontinuation of talks between the union and the electricity distribution company. Also in Plateau State, the North-East Zone of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) yesterday picketed the headquarters of Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC), alleging indiscriminate sacking of staff. As early as 8a.m., the union members comprising NUEE, Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and others gathered at the entrance of the company for the picketing in Lagos. The action, which the management of Ikeja Distribution Company otherwise known as Ikeja Electric described as sabotage, was organised despite a

subsisting court order halting such exercise. Following last month’s three-day protest, the electricity distribution company filed a suit seeking a motion for Interlocutory Injunction restraining NUEE, SSAEAC, NLC, their agents, officers, privies, representatives or otherwise, whether acting of their own accords or in concert with other bodies, persons or unions, from disrupting or shutting down the operations of the company or barricading the entry and exit points of her corporate headquarters or any other premises or location where the company carries out commercial and (or) technical operations. IE in a statement said the suit followed an earlier protest carried out at the premises of the DISCO in March, a development that threw part of communities under its distribution into darkness. It noted that the injunction also restrained the above named parties, their agents and representatives from restricting the free

movement of staff, customers and technicians etc. in and out of all her business premises pending the determination of the suit filed on April 4. In Plateau State, the North-East Zone of the NUEE yesterday picketed the headquarters of Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC), alleging indiscriminate sacking of staff. NUEE Vice President in the North-East, Mr. Musa Ayiga, who led his colleagues on the exercise, said the union was also angry with JEDC over the “unfavourable working conditions” of its staff. He said that JEDC management sacked “more than 50 workers last week.” According to him, there is also a huge disparity in the working conditions of JEDC employees. “The union has observed that there is a salary disparity in the company with outsourced staff and those inherited from the former PHCN underpaid and over-used, compared to those the company employed directly.

“We have also observed that there have been no promotions over the years while internship staff are yet to be regularised one year after engagement,” he said. He further alleged that the company was engaging in wrong placement of staff with more senior and experienced staff placed under inexperienced and junior ones. The union, he said, had given JEDC a seven -day ultimatum to recall the sacked workers and address the other issues. A News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent, who visited JEDC Head office, observed that it was placed under lock and key while musicians were sighted playing the union's solidarity song with banners hung round the premises. But, Managing Director of the JEDC, Alhaji Gidado Modibo, dismissed the allegations as “just not true.” “The union’s claim that we have been sacking people is not true. Since we took over the company

in 2013, we have recruited more than 150 people into the system. “We only disengaged redundant and weak people that were not adding any value to the system, and that included four Assistant General Managers, four Business Managers and some principal and senior managers. “We run JEDC as a private outfit that must stay afloat and survive; so much premium is placed on productivity and resourcefulness. “The records and data are there to support the performances of those sacked and those retained. “We have found out that it is the former workers that were sacked over such poor performance that have mobilised students and miscreants to fight the system,” he said.

17%

The percentage of the population of men above 60 years of Cuba in 2012. Source: Un.org

allies including market women and students. No one is above the law," it said. In a statement signed by TUC President, Bala Bobboi Kaigama, and made available to New Telegraph, the union queried the rationale behind such an action at a time the country was going through tough times. The statement said: “Where did such idea emanate from for God's sake at a time the country is bleeding from all sides and seriously gasping for breath? This is obviously a pointer to the fact that our senators don’t mean well for the country. They have lost touch with the plight of the people that voted for them. “What would our senators say they have achieved in the last one year? It is morally wrong and shameful for the Senate of the Federal Republic to attach so much importance to infinitesimal things like cars and houses at a time their counterparts elsewhere are making good laws and transforming lives. “We do not know of any lawmaker both in the Red and Green Chamber that had not got cars before they came to the Senate. Some have even been in the Senate now for 12 years after serving as governors and lawmakers in their respective states. “Where lies the conscience of our senators? How come they are not disturbed by the effort of our president to revamp the economy? We are not going to let all these forces frustrate the effort of the Federal Government again, not anymore.” TUC demanded the Senate to immediately furnish Nigerians and the world how they got money for the purchase of these cars without appropriation. It noted: “We view as demeaning and laughable the explanation by Senate spokesperson, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, who said that Special Advisers drive jeeps, why not Senators? Oh, it is unfortunate this Senate is determined to frustrate the effort of the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration. “We have set machinery in motion on how to stall the evils going on, on the floor of the Senate. At first, it was an amendment of the Code of Conduct Bureau Act and now, paltry issues like cars. But for greed and avarice, what cars haven't they got?”

19%

The percentage of the population of women above 60 years of Cuba in 2012. Source: Un.org

NEWS | national

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Court fixes Tompolo, FG, others’ suit for May 4 J Akeem Nafiu

ustice Olatoregun Ishola of a Federal High Court in Lagos has fixed May 4 for further hearing in a suit filed by a former Niger Delta militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo a. k. a. Tompolo, to challenge Sections 221 and 306 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. Tompolo is suing the Federal Government, Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Inspector-General of Police

(IGP), Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff and Chief of Air Staff over the contentious sections. At yesterday's proceedings, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa appeared with Emmanuel Jakpa and Kingsley Izimah, for the applicant, Tompolo. There was no appearance for any of the respondents. Adegboruwa informed the court that both the Federal Government and the AGF had been served with the originating motion. He further informed the court that the EFCC and the IGP both declined

service of the court papers on the ground that the date of hearing was too close. He, however, applied for a short adjournment to enable the court bailiff serve the court processes on the EFCC, IGP and other respondents. The case was later adjourned to May 4 for hearing. In the suit, Tompolo is asking for an interpretation and nullification of certain sections of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, which he claimed affected his constitutional rights.

Tompolo is contending that Sections 221 and 306 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act are invalid and unconstitutional. The sections, he claimed, seek to prevent the court from exercising its jurisdiction to entertain any objection to a criminal charge and an application for a stay of proceedings pending appeal. He is asking the court to stop further trial until the determination of the issues complained of. In the new case marked, FHC/L/CS/499/2016, Tom-

polo is seeking the following reliefs from the court: "A declaration that Section 221 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, is to the extent that it seeks to be an absolute bar to any objection to a criminal charge or information, already filed, especially Charge No. FHC/L/553C/2015 – Federal Republic of Nigeria v Government Ekpemupolo (Alias Tompolo) & 9 Ors. and Charge No. FHC/L/31C/2016 – Federal Republic of Nigeria v Ekpemupolo Chief Government Oweize& 12

Ors., or to be filed against the applicant, constitutes a flagrant violation of the applicant’s fundamental right to fair hearing as guaranteed under Sections 36(1), (4) & (6) as well the inherent powers of a court of law under Section 6(6) (a)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 and Article VII of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and is therefore illegal, unconstitutional, null and void.

129m

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

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Oscar N. Onyema; Managing Director/CEO, Unity Bank Plc, Mrs. Tomi Somefun and a Director in the bank, Mr. Gboyega Asabia, during a courtesy visit by the management of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) to Unity Bank in Lagos.

Car purchase: Lagos, Oyo give preference to female senators Chukwu David Abuja

agos and Oyo states have given preference to their female senators in the on-going delivery of Toyota Land Cruiser Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV) to the members of the Senate. New Telegraph investigations revealed that Senators Oluremi Tinubu (APC, Lagos Central) and Monsurat Sunmonu (APC, Oyo Central) have collected their own vehicles while other two senators from each of the states would get theirs in the next delivery. It was learnt that since only 36 out of the 108 vehicles being purchased for the senators had been delivered, the leadership of the Senate asked each state caucus to meet and

agree on who should receive from the first set of vehicles delivered so far. A source told our correspondent that the decision to allow each state caucus to determine their sharing formula was to avoid generating unnecessary controversy, especially now that the National Assembly is in the eye of the storm in several respects. Apart from Lagos and Oyo states, which resolved to give their female colleagues first, it was further learnt that some other states that produced principal officers decided to give the principal officers first. In states where there are no principal officers, the senators from each state used their discretion to determine the senator to receive, while others would wait for the next delivery.

Attack on cyberspace'll worsen economy, affect public health, FG warns Emmanuel Onani Abuja

he Federal Government has warned that any serious attack on the country's cyberspace, will negatively affect the economy and public health. This was as it noted that a 2014 report by the United Kingdom (UK)based Centre for Strategic and International Studies, put the annual cost of cybercrime to Nigeria at an estimated N127 billion. The National Security Adviser (NSA), Maj.Gen. Babagana Monguno (rtd), who made the disclosure in his Office during the inauguration of the Cybercrime Advisory Council,

further made reference to a report by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), which said between 2013 and 2014, fraud on e-payment platform of the Nigerian banking sector increased by 183 per cent. Monguno warned that "any serious attack or interference to the operation of Nigerian cyberspace will have negative impact on national economy as well as on public health and safety", He regretted that the "activities of hackers and cyber criminals in recent times have threatened government presence, economic activities and security of Nigerians and vital infrastructure connected to the internet.

Panama Leaks: Tinubu operates 12 secret companies in tax havens Our Correspondent

hief Executive of Nigeria’s biggest indigenous oil and gas company, Oando Plc, Mr Wale Tinubu has been fingered as part of the clique of wealthy Nigerians who incorporated and operated a cluster of secret companies in notorious offshore jurisdictions where they enjoyed perpetual tax holidays. The revelations which were contained in the leaked internal data belonging to Panamanian law firm, Mossack Fonseca

showed that Tinubu had a good return on their offshore investments in 2008 and paid a front as much as $20,000 monthly to manage all these investments. According to the investigations by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung and more than 100 other global news organizations across the world including Nigeria’s Premium Times, Tinubu secured the services of Mossack Fonseca to help him incorporate the companies in Seychelles and the British Virgin

Islands (BVI), two of the world's most notorious offshore tax havens. The documents, according to Premium Times, showed that Tinubu is director in the following companies: Sigma Technology Inc; Techventure Inc; Anglesey Management SA; Caine Trading Corp; Keligh Engineering Corp; Hud Trading Corps; Meridian Procurement International Services Ltd; Lynx Shipping Ltd; Equinox Shipping Ltd; Everglade Oil Inc; Framlingham Ltd and Triton Trading Ltd, all incorpo-

Emefiele deserves support, not distraction –Group Temitope Ogunbanke

socio-political organisation, Advocate for Democracy and Good Governance (ADGG), has urged Nigerians to support the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, saying what he needed to succeed in office was support and not distraction. The group which took a swipe at those behind sponsored campaign of calumny in the media against the CBN governor, said no amount of falsehood can tarnish the image of Emefiele, who

according to the organisation, is doing his best to manage the country apex bank. ADGG in a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Alabode Ribidesi, after its biennial congress in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, expressed delight on how the CBN governor was assisting President Muhammadu Buhari to move the country forward by embarking on a sustained policy and action on diversifying the economy away from dependence on oil. The concerned group also commended the CBN under Emefiele for being

very forceful in deploying its development funds for manufacturing, Small Scale Enterprises (SMEs) and agriculture, pointing out that “though these structural changes may take time to be fully felt, its benefits are already being gradually felt.” “Emefiele, in all the smear campaigns has never been found wanting in his job. He has never been accused of stealing and fraud. Emefiele’s track record at the Zenith Bank; the financial outfit that he put on proper footing make him a round peg in a round hole,” the group stated.

rated in Sychelles and the British Virgin Island. In May 2007, the leaked documents revealed, Tinubu secured the services of Swiss asset management firm, Clamorgan SA, to help him incorporate Techventure Inc., Anglesey Management SA, Caine Trading Corp and Keligh Engineering in Seychelles while appointing Mossack Fonseca Geneva as registered agent and administrator for the shell companies. The documents also revealed that Tinubu did not only rely on nominee directors appointed by Mossack Fonseca to hide his ownership of these companies , but also hired a paid front, Patrick Bastin, who acted on his behalf in some of the offshore companies. Seychelles has been identified as an attractive offshore destination for several top Nigerian businessmen who prefer secret investments. Several offshore companies owned by Nigerians in tax havens were incorporated in the small Indian Ocean country, with a population of just under 90,000 people. They were registered as International Business Companies (IBC) and are among the most popular IBCs in the secretive world of offshore jurisdictions.

national | news

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Gbajabiamila to Chinese president: Ignore Fayose's petition on $2bn loan Philip Nyam Abuja

eader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, has written a counter letter to the President of China, Xi Jingping, advising him to ignore Governor Ayo Fayose, whom he accused of economic sabotage describing him as a ‘”meddlesome interloper”. Gbajabiamila, in the letter dated April 18th, 2016, argued that as a citizen of the country and a governor elected on the platform of an opposition party, Fayose, was entitled to his right of expression but his latest let-

ter smacked of ignorance on budgeting matters and exuberance. “As a former Leader of the opposition in the House of Representatives, for eight years, my politics though passionate was girded with decency and I conducted myself within the ambits of our constitution. What the state governor has done amounts to attempted economic sabotage and subversion. I ask therefore that you excuse the vituperations and exuberance of the governor as just that”. According to the House Leader, “a governor who overreaches himself and acts outside his constitutional mandate can at best be described legally as a

meddlesome interloper”. The lawmaker noted that, “ordinarily I would not join issues with the governor but as the leader of the House of Representatives, I am saddled with the responsibility of driving all government business and policies in the House. It is therefore incumbent upon me to set the records straight, though I am sure the letter written to you by the governor will probably receive little (if any) attention from your high office, assuming it even gets to you. “Mr. President, Nigeria as you know is not an erroneously project as described by the governor, but a nation like all others nations."

Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

he Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mahmud Muhammed, yesterday admitted that delay in trial of corruption cases has remained a major challenge confronting the nation's justice system. He, however, advocated for lasting solutions that will improve the administration of criminal justice system, reduce delays, restore public confidence, as well as improve judicial performance. The CJN spoke yesterday while declaring open the 2016 refresher course organised for magistrates

£6.97m

The annual salary of Fransesco Totti of Roma in 2014/2015. Source: Paywizard.co.uk

CJN decries delay in trial of corruption cases

on current trends in law and administration of justice by the National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja. According to him, "More often than not, trial delays are caused by the antics of parties and to some extent the court, which results to unnecessary adjournment. "Often, prosecutors or defence counsel are unable to present their cases or witnesses and investigating police officers are often unavailable or transferred; there is sometimes a lack of diligent rendering of legal advice on whether there is a prima facie case to prosecute, an increased use of preliminary objections, unnecessary legal devices for delaying trials and a myriad of others too numerous to mention here," he said. He also stressed the need to reduce the backlog of cases, especially in

criminal matters, which he said have contributed to the congestion of prisons and expressed optimism that the course will provide an avenue to device ways of achieving this. "I find it distressing that many criminal trials are not given the attention that they deserve. "I urge you to accord criminal matters priority as had been the legal tradition and not to unduly delay proceedings. "For emphasis, I wish to draw your attention to S 35(4) and 36(4) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which have the combined effect of underlining the need to expeditiously try criminal matters in view of the various fundamental rights that an accused is deprived of, especially when in custody or detention.

We’re ready to reveal power sector problems – Union

T L-R: Chairman, UBA Plc, Mr. Tony Elumelu; Abia State Governor, Mr. Okezie Ikpeazu; Group Managing Director/CEO, UBA Plc, Mr. Phillips Oduoza; Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu and Group Managing Director-Designate, UBA Plc, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka, at the 9th Edition of CEO Awards, organised by UBA to reward outstanding staff within the group, in Lagos…at the weekend

Antibiotics resistance may kill 10m annually B Appolonia Adeyemi

ugs, resistant to antibiotics 'will kill more than cancer', if new drugs that would tackle new infections were not found. In a speech at the International Monetary Fund in Washington DC, a British Conservative Party politician and Member of Parliament (MP), George Osborne, who made the assertion, also called for a global effort to develop new antibiotics. According to him, 10 million people a year could die by 2050, unless new drugs were found for common infections. Bugs that are resistant to antibiotics are expected to kill more people than cancer within decades, Osborne said in speech that was presented at the IMF yesterday. Without new drugs, common infections will be responsible for 10 million deaths a year, around the world by 2050, he claimed – more than the eight million a year who die from cancer now. As well as disastrous consequences for health,

the Chancellor warned that a lack of effective antibiotics may have an ‘enormous economic cost’ over the same period, slashing global economic output by 3.5 per cent – or £70 trillion. “Huge cash rewards should also be given to companies that come up with new ways of diagnosing exactly which infection a person has – and which drugs will be most effective”, he said. Widespread over-prescribing weakens drugs’ effectiveness as bacteria become more resistant. Medical experts have warned of a catastrophic

future in which common infections are deadly, as they were before the discovery of penicillin in the Twenties. It could lead to slight scratches or routine operations becoming fatal. Massive quantities of antibiotics are used in animal agriculture, contributing to the development and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that increasingly threaten human health. An estimated 70 per cent of the antibiotics used in the United States each year are used as feed additives for chickens, hogs, and beef cattle, not to treat disease, but rather

to promote growth and to compensate for crowded, stressful, and often unhygienic conditions on industrial-scale farms. Many of the drugs used for these "nontherapeutic" purposes are identical or related to those used in human medicine, but their use as feed additives requires no prescription. Growing evidence links use of these antibiotic feed additives to the development and spread of resistant bacteria in our food supply and environment, making it harder for physicians to treat people suffering from bacterial disease.

he Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) yesterday said it was ready to reveal the challenges facing the power sector in Nigeria and how to solve them. Mr Chris Okonkwo, the newly-elected president of the union spoke to journalists in Lagos during the handover ceremony from outgoing president, Mr. Bede Opara to him (Okonkwo). According to Okonkwo, the focus of his administration was to ensure the Federal Government was informed about the problems inhibiting the development of power and how it would be solved. ``Our challenge is to make sure that the government knows the facts that are hidden from it, to ensure that the right thing is done. ``Our new administration has been talking to key government agencies, even on off-point issues, to know the facts on how

Budget: N'Assembly'll override Buhari after 30 days –Rep Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI

he National Assembly will override President Muhamadu Buhari on the 2016 budget after the 30 days allowed by the constitution for the signing if he fails to assent the appropriation bill passed by the legislature. The member representing Afikpo North/

South constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Idu Igariwey disclosed this in Abakaliki, yesterday. He chided those blaming the National Assembly for making changes to the bill, saying the lawmakers should not be blamed for carrying out their constitutional duties. “Truth of the matter is that the budget came with a lot of difficulties. The budget came almost

like a stillborn baby and so it needed the legislators to put life to it. Either because it came in a hurry or was hurriedly conceived and poorly digested before it came to us. Maybe those were the reasons. But at the end of the day, the NASS had to do due diligence on the budget by looking at the various figures and the various areas of allocation of resources”. “For instance, let us

look at the budget for the Works Ministry. If you saw the analysis that was made, you will discover that most parts of the budget were supposed to go to one part of the country. ‘’A state like Ebonyi had nothing to do with that budget as it concerns federal roads! And this is a budget that ran into over N300 billion, I think the only thing that came to Ebonyi State was only N28 million out of that whooping

to solve problems in the Power sector. ``We shall use our knowledge to engage the President, Ministers, and other stakeholders. We shall explain to the president low monetary collection by the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) and the non supply of meters, even when consumers have paid,’’ he said. The new president said that the biggest challenge currently facing the sector was the after effect of privatisation, which has failed to yield the expected results for the government. He said that the intention for the privatisation was to free money for the government to invest in other areas and make the electricity sector more efficient. He said that SSAEAC would focus on collaborating with the National Union of Electricity Employees, to achieve a peaceful Power sector in Nigeria, devoid of crisis.

amount which was maybe to provide shoulder for the Abakaliki-Enugu Road already being completed”. “And we are only talking about 36 states in this country and so how can you assign N28million out of N300 billion to Ebonyi? And this also happened in other states of the South East. And we as legislators from the East you don’t expect us not to kick against such unequal distribution of our common wealth.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

METRO

ABIODUN BELLO abiodun.bello@newtelegraphonline.com 08023938212

...CRIME, CITY WATCH, COURTS

Lagos CP probes four policemen for robbery H

Pastor drugged my wife to die slowly – Singer’s husband

Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

Juliana Francis

agos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fatai Owoseni, has launched investigation into the alleged robbery activities of four men attached to the state Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS), Ikeja. The robbery was said to have been carried out on Saturday night at Sagamu, Ogun State. They were said to have attacked and robbed a trailer loaded with vehicle spare parts. It was gathered that the men alleged to be involved in the robbery, were gallant policemen. Owoseni was said to have been so angry that he is personally handling the investigation. Already, three civilians and a policeman, identified as Victor, had been arrested in connection with the incident. The occupants of the trailer, a driver and conductor, later alerted their company that they had been robbed. The robbers, who didn’t know that the trailer had a tracker, were trailed to Okokomaiko. When the owner of the trailer owners alerted the Officer in Charge of FSARS (OC FSARS), Ikeja, he was unaware that his men were the robbers. The leader of the FSARS for

the robbery is said to be one Inspector Durojaiye. Duroijaye and two other members of the team escaped, while Victor is being detained in FSARS cell in Ikeja. Victor was arrested after a gun duel with policemen attached to Okokomaiko police station. A police source said: “The incident happened on Saturday night. Inspector Durojaiye is the leader of the team. The team is called ‘striking team.’ They all came from State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID), Panti,

three months ago to join FSARS, Ikeja. The team was on night duty that fateful Saturday. “They went to Sagamu and hijacked 20ft container, loaded with vehicle spare parts. They tied the driver and conductor, put them inside their Lexus Jeep. They diverted the trailer to Lagos route. They left the driver and conductor in a bush at Ijebu-Ode and zoomed off. When the conductor and driver came out from the bush, they saw people and narrated their ordeal. “The people directed them to

the nearest police station. The owner of the trailer was called and he provided the trailer number. The owner said the conductor and driver should be detained. The trailer had a tracker. The owner called the tracking office. The owner went to the OC FSARS. The trailer was tracked to Okokomaiko. “Before that, the robbers went to Abattoir, Agege, to contact a buyer. The money the buyer brought wasn’t enough. He directed them to another buyer at Okokomaiko. Before FSARS got to Okokomaiko, policemen from Okokomaiko had already had an encounter with them. Immediately Okokomaiko policemen flagged them down, they came down and started firing. Three escaped, but Victor was arrested because he was in the driver’s seat. Victor said that earlier, before they were confronted by another police team in a shootout, they had supplied the goods to a receiver and collected N30 million. The money is with Durojaiye. “Durojaiye and two others escaped. The police commissioner wanted to parade some suspects today (yesterday), but because of this escapade by his men, postponed the parade of suspects. He is very angry. He had already drafted some men to pursue the fleeing policemen.”

City Briefs

usband of popular gospel singer, who died in a hotel room in Benin, Edo State, yesterday accused Pastor of Fresh Oil Ministry, Apostle Psalm Okpe, of allegedly killing his wife, Mrs. Yvonne Omoarebokhae. Mr. Odion Omoarebokhae dismissed the rumour that his wife died of cardiac arrest. He alleged that his 30-year-old wife must have been drugged with unknown substance by the suspect in the hotel room and left to die gradually. Yvonne was on April 8 found dead in a hotel belonging to a former lawmaker in the state House of Assembly located in the Government Reservation Area (GRA) barely a day before she was expected to perform at Okpe’s crusade in Warri, Delta State. She was allegedly invited to the hotel by the pastor, who she met on Facebook. The gospel singer was said to have been booked by the pastor to perform at designated churches in Warri, Asaba and Benin before she died. But her husband explained that he did not know anything about the pastor. He said: “About 9p.m., I was called to come to the Airport Road police station. Initially, I thought she had an issue with the taxi she took on her way back. But later that night, the police, after tossing me here and there, told me that she was dead.”

Minister declares open drums festival

Armed men raid stores, injure two

Kunle Olayeni

Port Harcourt

Abeokuta

he Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, will today declare open a four-day Nigerian Drums Festival in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. The event, which kicks off at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta, is billed to feature contingents from 19 states across the federation and representatives from 10 African countries. Addressing a press conference heralding the festival, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Chief Muyiwa Oladipo, disclosed that the world’s

tallest traditional drum would be unveiled at the event. Oladipo said the tallest drum, which is 16-feet high, was specially built around Yoruba history by an indigene of the state. According to him, the festival is being packaged to revive the dying culture in the country. The commissioner added that the ceremony would also include “a packaged tour” to historic tourist sites across the state. He said: “The event is the first of its kind. Because it is drums festival, we are going to concentrate on drums and complementary instruments. We are trying to revive our culture. “As at the last count, we are having 19 states featuring and we still expect others. We have

already given guidelines to all the states. They are to forward the synopsis of whatever they are going to present. We are not going to allow the use of any foreign instrument. Any use of foreign instrument automatically disqualifies the state.”

Lai Mohammed

Emmanuel Masha

rmed robbers attacked a stationery stores on Ikwerre Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, injured two persons and stole an undisclosed amount of money. The four men, who were wielding pistols, stormed the store opposite a new generation bank about 10a.m. and held customers and the store owner hostage. A witness said while two of the robbers dashed inside, the remaining two kept watch outside, pretending to be customers who wanted to shop. The two who went inside, used their pistols to beat a man repeatedly, injuring him in the

process, before rushing out. They also injured the daughter of the shop owner. But the robbers did not injure that woman, who owns the shop and sells mainly stationeries and other office items on wholesale. They asked her to bring out the money she realised from last week’s sales. Her saving grace, according to a witness, was that she sent one of her boys to the bank very early in the morning before the robbers struck. “This is the second time that robbers have raided the shop this year. They always come to monitor to know if there is cash in the shop. But today (yesterday), they were not successful as they managed to rob the customers who came to buy.

METRO

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Cultists shatter member’s head Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

ome suspected cultists yesterday shattered the head of one of their members with stones in Osogbo, Osun State. They also pierced his eyes with a sharp knife. The incident occurred at Winners’ Primary and Secondary School located at Tinumola Estate area of the ancient town. The deceased, simply identified as Wale, was said to have given up the ghost when the cult members threw stones which sunk into his forehead. The cultists fled when they discovered he was dead while residents of the area reportedly vacated their houses for fear of being arrested by the police. At press time, the reason for Wale’s murder was yet to be ascer-

tained but a source said he might have violated one of the group’s operational rules. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mrs. Folashade Odoro, confirmed the incident. She said: “Policemen on patrol received a call that some people were fighting at Tinumola

Estate and moved to the scene immediately. When policemen got to the scene, they saw a young man whose age and name are unknown lying dead in a pool of his own blood. “One suspect has been arrested in connection with the crime while the body of the deceased

has been deposited at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) mortuary.” Odoro added that the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Kola Sodipo, had ordered that the case should be thoroughly investigated while the perpetrators of the act should be fished out.

n American businessman, Mr. Marco Antonio Ramirez, and his companies – Eagle

File: Suspected cult members

Ford Instalodge Group LP and USA Now LLC – were yesterday arraigned before Justice

Ramirez

Peter Affen of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, sitting in Maitama, Abuja on an eight-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence to the tune of $2.3 million. Ramirez is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). According to the complainants, Prince Ejikeme Ubanagum Mgbemena and Frank Ifaluyi Egbon, the suspect allegedly assured them that he would invest the money under the Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Based Fifth

Police settle Wizkid, Ikeji’s squabble Juliana Francis

usic star, Ayo Balogun, otherwise known as Wizkid, yesterday reported at the Lagos State Police Command, following allegation from popular blogger, Linda Ikeja, that he threatened her life. Ikeji filed a threat to life compliant against Wizkid after he threatened to send his teenage cousin to beat her. Ikeji said she resorted to reporting to police, because threat to women shouldn’t be taken lightly. According to the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ikeji lodged a complaint and police immediately started probing the issue. She added: “The Com-

Man slumps, dies over non-payment of pension Sabiu Mustapha JALINGO

man identified as Kusuku Martins (80) has slumped and died in Jalingo, Taraba State when he learnt that his name was omitted from government’s pension payroll. The incident occurred last Thursday around 4pm on Barde Way, near Government House Junction. It was learnt that the late Martins came from Gembu, Mambilla Plateau to the state capital to process his pension at the state pension board which had not been paid in the past

two months. The man went to the board to complain of the non-payment of his pension but discovered that his name was even omitted on this month’s payroll. Thereafter, he went to the state office of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners to lodge a complaint. But as he came out of the union office, Martins suddenly collapsed and died instantly by the roadside. The state Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Hassan Abubakar, confirmed the incident. He described it as “pathetic and terrible.”

Four children’s bodies found inside faulty car

American arraigned for $2.3m scam A

missioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, has brokered peace between them. The command received a petition of threat to life from Ikeji against Ayo Balogun. The police commissioner has stepped into the issue between Wizkid and Ikeji. Alternative dispute resolution was used and the parties left in peace.” Posting her blog on why she reported the musician to police, Ikeji said: “Wizkid went on my instagram page to call me names and lied that I slept with some director of his, which I said before was one thousand per cent lies! But the insult and lies were not why the police are now involved. You can insult me, insult my family, call me any names you

Preference (EB-5). The complainants added that the suspect promised to provide American Green Card for members of their families below 18 years. The accused, according to the EFFC Head, Media and Publicity, Wilson Uwujaren, pleaded not guilty to the charges. In view of his plea, the prosecution counsel, Samuel Ugwuegbulam, asked the court for a date for trial. Consequently, Affen adjourned the case till May 21 for hearing of bail application and ordered the accused to be remanded in the EFCC custody.

like, even lie that I slept with your forefathers, but don’t threaten me. If you threaten me, I will act! “I read people online saying that I reported to the police because I was scared of Wizkid. No, my darlings, I’m not afraid of Wizkid. Although I didn’t take his threats lightly; I went to the authorities for

two reasons.” You see violence against women and threat of violence against women is not okay. Threatening harm to someone in a public space is a criminal act in every country of the world, including Nigeria.” The social media war between Wizkid and Ikeji snowballed after the blogger published that the music star was facing eviction problems from his supposed Lekki home.

Ikeji

Wizkid

Muhammad Kabir Kano

assers-by and residents of Jain Quarters, Kumbotso Local Government Area of Kano State could not hold back tears when the bodies of four children aged two and three years were discovered inside a car at an uncompleted building. The children, who were said to be missing since noon on Sunday, were discovered about 5p.m. the same day. A search party found the bodies believed to have suffocated inside the car of

their neighbour who went in search of battery for his car. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Musa Majiya, said the owner of the car, who used to keep it at the uncompleted building, discovered the bodies of the children about 5p.m. when he returned to fix the battery. Majiya said that as soon as the man realised that the boys were dead inside his car, he rushed to the police and notified them. According to him, the police went to the scene and took the children to the hospital where they were certified dead.

Seven killed in Kebbi’s communal clash Abubakar Abdul Birnin Kebbi

t least seven people reportedly lost their lives yesterday during a communal clash at Kubula village in Zuru Local Government Area of Kebbi State. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Nafiu Abubakar, confirmed the incident to journalists yesterday in Birnin-Kebbi. He said the crisis started on Saturday night over farmland between two villages, Rumu and Isgogo, in Kubula community. Abubakar said the investigation was ongoing as the issue over the farmland was already before the court. Briefing journalists when he visited the village, the state Deputy Governor, Ismail Yombe, expressed dismay over the crisis. He added that the secu-

rity men had been mobilised to the area to ensure peace. The deputy governor also said about eight people died while over 10 others were hospitalised. Yombe assured the people that government would work had and bring the culprits to the book. Also, a witness, Sani Skandi, said that over 15 people were killed while others were receiving treatment at Zuru General Hospital. He said that the crisis started the two communities were claiming the ownership of the farmland.

IG, Arase

NEWS | national

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

£1.4m

The total amount received by Bournemouth in the whole 2015-16 season. Source: 101greatgoals.com

Former DirectorGeneral, National Youth Service Corps (Nysc), Brig.-Gen. Johnson Olawumi, handing over to his successor, Brig.-Gen. Sule Kazaure, at the Nysc Headquarters in Abuja …yesterday.

FRSC refutes claims of court nullifying its power

he Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) yesterday refuted social media reports that a Federal High Court in Lagos has nullified its power to issue fines, tickets and impound offenders’ vehicles. Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Mr. Bisi Kazeem, the commission’s Public Relations Officer, said FRSC was aware of the post on social media questioning its powers to punish traffic offenders. “The truth is that there is no recent judgement

of the federal high court, Lagos, on the Tope Alabi case as is being circulated. “What happened was that one Tope Alabi challenged the powers of the FRSC to arrest him and impound his vehicle and make him pay fines for offences alleged. “The court presided over by Justice James Tsoho, held that FRSC had no such powers. This was in September 2014. “However, in a case on all fours with the Tope Alabi case earlier in March, 2014, same Justice Tsoho in the case of Bren Williams & Anor v FRSC.

PHOTO: NAN

I've no financial dealings with Dasuki –PDP scribe $2bn loan: ‘Oyegun, Oni, others’ Onyekachi Eze

criticism of Fayose hypocritical’

he Special Assistant to the Ekiti State Governor on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, yesterday described as hypocritical, the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Chief John OdigieOyegun, the Deputy National Chairman, Chief Segun Oni and others' criticism of Governor Ayodele Fayose's letter to the Chinese government on the $2 billion loan sought by the Federal Government. He described President Muhammadu Buhari's non-signing of any direct loan agreement with the Chinese government during his visit as a vindication

of the governor's position, maintaining that; "what Nigeria needs is the collaboration of the Government of China in the area of technology transfer, rather than granting loan that will be mismanaged under the guise of building infrastructure." In a statement issued in Ado Ekiti yesterday, the governor's spokesperson said "people like Oyegun, Oni and Prof. Itse Sagay, lack the moral right to complain even if President Buhari is called whatever names because they never complained when, as a sitting president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, was called unprintable names by APC stalwarts and leaders."

NIMASA DG suggests military-led sea patrol to tackle piracy T he Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has suggested a legal framework that would prescribe stiff sanction and vigilant military-led patrol and better intelligence gathering network to tackle sea piracy. NIMASA Head of Public Relations, Hajia Lami Tumaka, said this in a statement made available in Lagos. The statement noted that the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, who made the suggestion, spoke with newsmen on sea piracy at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on his way to Singapore. According to the state-

ment, Peterside said tackling rising cases of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea requires multi-stakeholders’ approach. The NIMASA chief said the activities of pirates stifled shipping activities and by extension commerce, which was a major driver of the global economy. Peterside said all avenues would be explored toward keeping the Nigerian waterways safe as well as the ships plying them. He noted that this required wider consultation. The director-general said NIMASA under his leadership was championing a number of initiatives aimed at achieving zero pirate activities in Nigerian waters.

ABUJA

he National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prof. Wale Oladipo, has denied receiving money from the former National Security Adviser (NSA), retired Colonel Sambo Dasuki. He also denied offering to refund certain amount of money to the Federal Government in order to

evade prosecution. A national daily had reported that Oladipo wrote to Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo to be allowed to refund the N75 million he allegedly received from Dasuki, so as not to be taken to court. But in a statement yesterday, the PDP scribe said: "I have no financial dealings with the Office of the National Security Adviser or any other government official before and after the elections." He explained that the

few monetary transactions he handled were within the ambit of his official duties as the National Secretary of the party. "At no point did I collect money from Dasuki or any other government official. “The report is clearly politically motivated. I affirm that all my actions and communications are motivated by the highest ideals of patriotism, transparency and commitment to national reformation," he declared.

Oladipo had claimed that he received an anonymous message on his telephone, inviting him for interrogation. He subsequently went to court to prevent the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) or any other government agencies from arresting or prosecuting him in connection with Dasukigate.

CSJ: 2016 budget implementation under threat Abdulwahab Isa and Nnamadi Amadi

ead Director, Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), Eze Onyekpere, yesterday raised the alarm that the face-off between the executive and legislature over the 2016 budget will jeopardise the implementation of the budget. Addressing the media in Abuja on the potential implication of the current budget logjam between the executive and National Assembly, Onyek-

pere advised President Muhammadu Buhari to, in the overall interest of Nigerians going through untold hardship, sign the budget and thereafter, send an amendment as supplementary budget to capture areas left out. He said good quality time has been wasted on the current budget impasse, adding that major capital projects are at risk of implementation considering that the rains are here. He urged both arms to close ranks and deal with the issue of budget

to alleviate Nigerians’ sufferings. “This is April, before this is resolved, maybe we will get into May, with all the paperwork done, money will be released maybe late May or early June and that is the thick of the rainy season. You may not be able to do any outdoor construction and before you know it, it is September/October again, when the rains have ceased and then as you are doing that you have just two months to end of the year. “Around October 15,

Gumi: Boko Haram’s 100% Muslim problem

prominent Muslim cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has said that Boko Haram is 100% a Muslim problem, accusing some people in the northern part of the country of ‘cooperating with and working to protect them.’ Gumi said in the current April edition of The Interview that, "Boko Haram as it now is, cannot prosper in Ibadan, because the locals will expose them, the same in Enugu. The people agitating for Biafra cannot prosper in the north because they will be exposed.

He said: "We have to understand that these people are from among us and that the society was not doing enough to bring these elements out. I can tell you that Boko Haram is 100 per cent a Muslim problem." Gumi, who also described the agitation for Biafra as ‘analogue,’ challenged Muslim leaders to do more to combat insurgency in the country. Commenting on the controversial bill to regulate preaching in Kaduna State, Gumi said the bill had gone too far and was an infringement on the

constitution. He said: "If you are trying to fight terrorism and extremism, you don't clamp on the freedom of speech, freedom of thought and freedom of propagation of thoughts. These liberties are enshrined in the constitution." It will be recalled that Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, had said that the bill was an updated version of an existing law required to curtail inflammatory sermons by faith leaders. Gumi, however, said the bill could drive extremism underground.

there will be a circular from the Accountant-General asking that all monies be recalled to the treasury that the year is ending. So, definitely it will do that and then you start thinking of extending the implementation of the capital budget to the end of the first quarter of the following year,” he said. However, in the event that the standoff continues, Onyekere said: “If the executive fails to sign or dialogue with the legislature, the law is clear. If the legislature can muster the required majority, they can override the President's veto if dialogue breaks down. But we don't want it to come to that because it will take some time, almost a month or two before the legislature can now start overriding and that is further waste of time. “Also by the time it gets to that, there will be bad blood, the President may now start implementing the budget in a haphazard manner, the legislature will now say you are not implementing it fully and such quarrel and acrimony will be in nobody's interest. It is not going to be in the interest of Nigerians. We don't want it to come to that,” he added.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Governance Excitement as Ambode renders stewardship account

Politics The outcry over perceived skewed appointments and recruitment into the various agencies of government in favour of some sections of the country has triggered a renewed call for a reform of the Federal Character Principle, FELIX NWANERI reports

Abia Why the gang up against Kalu?

13 16

Echoes of marginalisation

he framers of Nigeria’s Constitution were wary of the domination of major ethnic groups over minorities in most political systems, which informed the inclusion of Federal Character Principle in the nation’s law book. The essence of the provision was to give equal opportunity to all ethnic nationalities and prevent tribal or regional domination of any government or its agency in a country that is made up of diverse ethnic nationalities, numbering over 350. Section 14 (3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which provides for the principle, states: “The composition of the Government of the Federation or any of its agencies and the conduct of its affairs shall be carried out in such a manner as to reflect the federal character of Nigeria and the need to promote national unity, and also to command national loyalty, thereby ensuring that there shall be no predominance of persons from a few states or from a few ethnic or other sectional groups in that Government or in any of its agencies.” Despite this provision, the leading ethnic groups have continued to dominate the political space, especially in the area of appointments into strategic government institutions. As a result, the Federal Character, which ordinarily was meant to protect the minorities, has ended up shielding the majority ethnic groups. None of the country’s past governments can be absolved of this as there has always been an imbal-

FELIX NWANERI

GROUP PoLITICAL EDITOR nwanerif@newtelegraphonline.com

Map of Nigeria showing country's 36 state Buhari

ance between the North and South in terms of appointments depending on which part of the country was in power at a particular time. The present administration under President Muhammadu Buhari, for instance, has come under fire over what his critics described as skewed appointments in favour of the North, particularly the North-West geo-political zone, where he hails from. Among the appointments are: Aide de Camp (ADC) to President, Lt. Col Abubakar Lawal (Kano State, North-West); Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the president, Mr. Femi Adesina (Osun State, South-West); Senior Special Assistant, Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu (Kano State, North-West); State Chief of Protocol/Special Assistant (Presidential Matters), Lawal Kazaure (Jigawa State, North-West) and Accountant General of the Federation Ahmed Idris (Kano State, North-West); Others are National Security Adviser, Maj. General Babagana Monguno (rtd) (Borno State, North-East); Chief of Defence Staff, Maj. General Abayomi Olonishakin (Ekiti State, SouthWest); Chief of Army Staff, Maj. General Tukur Buratai, (Borno

The various ethnic nationalities that make up Nigeria view each other with suspicion

State, North-East); Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Cross Rivers, SouthSouth); Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshall Sadique Abubakar (Bauchi State, North-East); Chief of Defence Intelligence, Air Vice Marshall Monday Riku Morgan (Benue State, North Central) and Director General, State Security Services (SSS), Lawal Daura (Katsina State, North-West) Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu (Bauchi State, North-East); Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Habibu Abdullahi (Kano State, North-West); Special Adviser, Niger Delta Amnesty Office, Brig. General Paul Boroh (rtd) (Bayelsa State, South-South); Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration, Safety and Security Agency (NIMASA), Dakuku Paterside (Rivers State, South-South) and Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Umaru Dambatta (Kano State, North-West). Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Babatunde Fowler [Lagos State, South-West); Director General, Budget Office of the Federation,

Aliyu Gusau (Zamfara State, North-west); Group Managing Director, Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. Emmanuel Kachikwu (Delta State, South-South); Secretary to Government of the Federation, Babachir David Lawal (Adamawa State, North-East); Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, (Borno, North-East); Comptroller-General, Nigerian Customs Service, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (rtd) (Kaduna State, North Central) and Comptroller-General, Nigerian Immigration Service, Kure Martin Abeshi (Nasarawa State, North Central). Also on the list are Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Ita Enang (Akwa Ibom State, SouthSouth); Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives), Hon. Suleiman Kawu (Kano State, North-West); Director, Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Modecai Baba Ladan (Kano State, North-West); Managing Director, Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON); Ahmed Lawan Kuru (Kano State, NorthWest); Commissioner for InsurCONTINUED ON PAGE 12

POLITICS

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

ance and Chief Executive of the National Insurance Commission: Mohammed Kari (North-West). Ordinarily, where these appointees come from would not have been an issue, but because the various ethnic nationalities that make up Nigeria view each other with suspicion. While some of the president’s critics, are of the view that his mode of appointments not only negates the Federal Character Principle but runs contrary to his oath office to serve as president to all Nigerians, others accused him of promoting a Northern agenda aimed at Islamizing Nigeria despite promising to run an all-inclusive government during his inauguration. This outcry, apparently explained why the Senate had to warn the Federal Character Commission (FCC) against allowing skewed appointments into the Federal Civil Service even as it vowed to enforce the Federal Character Principle in all appointments and distribution of economic and social amenities in the country. Chairman, Senate Committee on Federal Character, Senator Tijjani Yahaya Kaura (Zamfara North), who gave the warning at an interactive session with the Chairman of the FCC, Dr. Shettima Bukar Abba and commissioners of the commission, noted that the Senate through his committee, would enforce a strict observance of the Federal character principle in appointments to ensure that there was no bias and breach of the 1999 Constitution in the number and manner of appointments. His words: “We will ensure the promotion and enforcement of equitable and proportional distribution of infrastructural facilities and socio-economic amenities among the federating units of Nigeria. Our mandate therefore is to stick strictly to these principles as outlined above and discourage executive and administrative arbitrariness.” The legislative directive, notwithstanding, some Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the Federal Government have been engaging in secret recruitment of personnel to fill available vacancies in their organisations without recourse to Federal Character. Among the MDAs that have been fingered over this anomaly include the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), which allegedly recruited about 909 personnel. Others are the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). It is against the backdrop that some stakeholders are insisting on 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. Among those in the vanguard of the campaign are Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu and the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi. Ekweremadu, who noted that federal character has played an important role in fostering national unity and promoting cross cultural interactions, however, expressed worry that it has over

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Echoes of marginalisation over federal character

Ekweremadu

time been abused and exploited to put mediocrity at the expense of merit in the leadership recruitment process. His thoughts were contained in a new book due for public presentation this month. According to him, 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. His words: “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

Abba

We always saddle people with responsibility beyond them, all in the name of federal character

Sanusi

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.” The Senate deputy president further argued that federal character, as currently administered, risks undermining the integrity of recruitment in the federal public service, calling for a reexamination of 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,” he said. He said 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 Nigeria is to move forward as a democratic nation. “Some people will be reluctant to support 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,” Ekweremadu said. Emir Sanusi, who also urged the Federal Government to make competence its priority, rather than federal character in appointing public officials, said the policy had made the nation move backward instead of forward. The former CBN governor, Sanusi, who spoke at the 30 years anniversary of University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA) at the weekend, said the factor of federal character in giving appointment to people is what led the nation to where it is now. He said the genesis of corruption in the country could be traced to federal character, for the fact that many leaders who were appointed to manage the country’s affairs were not competent, but were chosen based on their ethnic, region or tribe. “I’m not against federal character, but it should not be our priority in giving appointments to people. The problem with our country today is that we always saddle people with responsibility beyond them, all in the name of federal character,” he said. No doubt the discontent over the appointments and recruitments will continue to grow, but the consensus is that while merit cannot be sacrificed on the altar of ethnic balancing, the various nationalities that make up the country should be treated as equals irrespective of their population strengths.

POLITICS

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

MURITALA AYINLA writes on Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s last week quarterly town hall meeting with the people of Lagos East Senatorial District

Excitement as Ambode renders stewardship account

hen Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode first mooted the idea of a quarterly town hall meeting with residents which would be different from his predecessor's 100 days in office celebration, little did anyone know that he meant business and was determined to run a truly participatory government. Many had thought that the quarterly town hall meeting was just a mere replica of former Governor Babatunde Fashola's account of stewardship which usually greeted with policy statements and mixtured criticisms of the then ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Many cynics had thought that the stakeholders meeting would be another political jamboree for politicians and sycophants but Governor Ambode has proved the cynics wrong with a town hall meeting that is fast building confidence of electorate in government. Some residents tactically used the opportunity of the forum to seek for personal and community assistance in the provision of social amenities from the governor which they often get or its approval given during the meeting. Last week Thursday town hall meeting was not a difference as Governor Ambode ordered immediate commencement of several projects and offered financial assistance to many residents, who sought his intervention during the town hall meeting. Besides rendering account of his stewardship to the people of the state in the last 11 months, he also listened to the people on how best the state can be moved forward. It was indeed an avenue for the governor to inform the people of the numerous projects his administration embarked upon in the past 10 months, especially in the first quarter of 2016. He also took time to feel the pulse of residents, party supporters, physically challenged, artisans, traditional rulers, community leaders, Community Development Associations (CDAs), among others. The town hall meeting, which is the third in the series was a feedback mechanism for Governor Ambode to know the impact the several projects he had embarked upon has on the residents and what other projects the residents want him to embark on that will enhance their living standard. The meeting has been strategically held previously in Lagos West and Lagos Central senatorial districts respectively where the governor equally rendered account and listened to the people on what they actually want from government, a development which formed the basis for subsequent developmental strides. Addressing residents on the arrays of projects his administration has embarked upon and planning to execute at the town hall meeting, Governor Ambode raised hope on

L-R: Solomon, Bello and Ambode at the town hall meeting.

the proposed 4th Mainland Bridge, saying he will formally sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with investors for the construction of the bridge before the end of next month. According to him, once the agreement is signed, work would begin on the bridge, which would go a long way to boost the economy of Lagos East Senatorial District. “Many investors have shown interest in the actualisation of our dream for the 4th Mainland Bridge which will run from Ajah to Ikorodu to Isawo and berth at Ojodu, Ikeja back to the Ibadan expressway. By the grace of God, we will sign a MoU and commence action before May 29,” he said. He added that investors have equally shown interest in the redevelopment of the fish market to an international fish market and the redevelopment of inner roads in Epe and Ibeju-Lekki. Governor Ambode said the intention of his administration is to ensure that no part of the state is left undeveloped, expressing optimism that the Lagos East Senatorial District which used to be the economic hub of the state in the then Western Region will regain its position. “To this end, government will be relocating the Mile 12 Market to Imota. Work on this will commence next week. Our vision is to make the East Senatorial Zone economically viable and liveable”, the governor said. On the pleas by Ikorodu residents for the expansion and rehabilitation of the road network, Governor Ambode assured that government will explore the Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiative to transform the Ikorodu-Imota-Agbowa-Itokin-Epe Road into a standard 8-lane road. He also directed the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources as well as the State Electricity Board to look at the possibilities of providing electricity for Igbo-Olomu community in Ikorodu who have been without light for over 10 years. Speaking on the continued reckless operation of the commercial motorcycles also known as Okada,

I am ready to pay monetary compensation for information on hardened criminals as we proceed to make Lagos crime-free

Governor Ambode asked the gathering to vote for or against a total ban on okada mode of transportation in a city like Lagos, which majority of the stakeholders in the hall raised their hands in support of a total of ban of okada. “I am encouraged by this very transparent, credible, free and fair affirmation which I just got from the people. From the response, many of the people in this hall are in support of a total ban on Okada and since this is a government of the people, all the security agencies in Lagos including the Police, Task Force, LASTMA and others, to start with, are hereby directed to fully enforce the ban on Okada between Mile 12 and Ikorodu,” he said. He charged the youths in the state to key into the programmes lined up for them by his administration, urging street urchins and youths involved in social vices such as cultism to lay down their arms assuring that they would be empowered to be gainfully and productively engaged. He said the plan of his administration is that youths, artisans and entrepreneurs in each of the Senatorial districts and divisions in the State would be able to access at least N1billon between now and June from the Employment Trust Fund (ETF), and use same for their greater economic prosperity, and by extension that of the State. Harping on the security, the governor said that he was ready to pay for information given that would lead to the arrest of hardened criminals. “I am ready to pay monetary compensation for information on hardened criminals as we proceed to make Lagos crime-free. We are happy to report that crime rate has also reduced in the last three months,” he said. Highlighting some of his administration’s strides in the last quarter, Governor Ambode said the state achieved major breakthrough in security, saying that since the launch of the N4.78 billion equipment, the state had won several battles against crime. Responding to concerns raised by

the disabled, Governor Ambode said a Disability Fund to be managed by the disabled people themselves would soon be launched, assuring that: “I would never forget my friends, the physically challenged”. On the action plan of government on water transportation, Governor Ambode said plans are in top gear to transform water transportation in Lagos to world class, saying that his administration would soon roll out comprehensive programme on the transportation mode. Speaking at the event, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Land Transportation, Senator Gbenga Ashafa commended Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for taking action towards construction of the Fourth Mainland Bridge, adding that the Fourth Mainland Bridge, when completed, would ease traffic gridlock in the state particularly in Lagos East Senatorial District. The lawmaker, who is representing Lagos East Senatorial District in the Red Chamber, expressed the readiness of National Assembly to support the state government on infrastructural development, adding that federal lawmakers from Lagos State are fully committed to success of a greater Lagos under Governor Ambode's leadership. His words: “On our part in the National Assembly, just as we supported His Excellency in obtaining the third tranche of the World Bank $200 million Lagos State Development Policy Operation (DPO), we are fully committed to doing our part in the continued success of a greater Lagos under the leadership of Governor Ambode. “The tangible works being executed by the governor and his team in Lagos East and across the state had brought respite and succour to all Lagosians.” The Senator also pointed out that “of particular note is the light-up Lagos project of this administration which is gradually getting to every nook and cranny of Lagos State. Just a few weeks ago here in Lagos East, CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion Setting Ndi Igbo up for massacre My Word CLEM AGUIYI totalpolitics@ymail.com 0803-474-7898 (sms only)

ast Sunday the Igbo nation and indeed the of Nigeria were alarmed by the news statement issued by the Department of State Services (DSS) through a section of the media. The news which made headlines in all the major newspapers claimed that five Fulani herdsmen were abducted , killed and buried in a shallow grave by elements affiliated to the indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The group has been having running battle with security agencies for some time following the arrest and trial of their leader Nnamdi Kanu.

DSS had listed the victims as Mohammed Gainako, Ibrahim Mohammed , Idris Yakubu and Isa Mohammed Rago. IPOB denied responsibility while the Abia state government said the bodies were those of kidnap victims. IPOB in their demand for judicial inquiry also alluded that the bodies were those of their members killed by security agencies and buried in shallow graves. Wrong is wrong and no citizen deserves to be gruesomely killed under any guise, hence the killings are condemnable. The impression created by the DSS statement is that the Igbo are killing Fulani herdsmen on account of the Biafra agitation. This impression is enough to inflame ethnic passion and conflict. In fact on that Sunday when the news came out , in the morning at about 8.58 am I received a text message from telephone number 08091368443 which said: ‘So this is what you people, nyamiri do to our Fulani herdsmen and no one says anything about it. Mass grave of Fulani herdsmen discovered in a bush in Abia. This was disclosed by the DSS . You see this will ignite war in the country… those Fulani were kidnapped and killed by Biafra loyalists. IPOB are terrorists’. If this is the kind of inflamed passion and animosity those that contrived the DSS statement wanted to achieve it scored the bulls eyes. But why will the top most security agency under the Presidency set up a section of the country for ethnic massacre? Supposing in a fit of uncontrolled rage the Hausa Fulani believing there was indeed a mass grave of Fulani herdsmen in Igbo land began an orgy of Igbo

killings in the north? Ndi –Igbo despite their negatives are known to be peaceful and desire to live with fellow citizens across the country. At the core of the Igbo values are respect for the sanctity of human lives , hospitality and protection of strangers. The Igbo are highly industrious and very often victims of sectarian attacks in parts of Nigeria. Over three million Igbo have been killed from 1960 to date in different conflicts. It is even the feelings of being unwanted that is fuelling the agitation by some youths for an independent state of Biafra. That the DSS news statement was primed for mischief wasn’t difficult to decipher as all the rudiments of professionalism in criminal investigation were thrown to the dogs. The DSS in its published statement failed to show evidence of the alleged killing/massacre and the exact picture and location of the alleged grave. No media outfit , print or electronic was taken to the scene. The media gleefully splashed the story on the front page without asking critical questions. No mention was made of any forensics conducted on the said bodies to determines the cause of death and time of death or the true identities of the victims. If the bodies were in the advanced stages of decomposition, how then did the agency determine that those bodies were not Igbo or Yoruba but Fulani. Make no mistake, no one is condoning the killings of any citizen. Wrong is wrong and crime is crime not matter who did it. No citizen of Nigeria deserve to be gruesomely murdered under any circumstances hence I will call for justice for the victims and also for the victims of Agatu massacre, Taraba and Jalingo killings, Chibok and Maiduguri killings and the Boko victims Haram terrorist groups. Again there was no mention of a Coroner’s inquest on the killings, no mention of any investigation by the police who are constitutionally obliged to investigate and prosecute as appropriate, and there was no mention of arrest of any suspects. It is on record that Nigeria in recent time has been a theatre of killings and beheadings by Fulani Herdsmen. Fulani Herdsmen are reported to have fought and massacred over 500 Idoma citizens in an effort to convert their ancestral farmlands as cattle grazing field. We do not know of any arrests by the DSS or prosecution by the authorities of these notorious insurgents now ranked as the fourth most deadly terrorist organization in the world. It is common knowledge that the Fulani Herdsmen bear arms especially the infamous AK47 assault rifles. They move about freely in a country that does not permit the bearing of such arms by private citizens. The IPOB have repeatedly stated that they do not bear arms and that their agitation for self-determination is based on their conscientious objection to membership of the Nigerian State. They are neither faceless nor operating underground. They are not a terror group and they know it that ndi Igbo will not allow terror-

The media gleefully splashed the story on the front page without asking critical questions

ism on our soil. The DSS knows exactly the purpose they intended to achieve by causing the publication of such a tendentious news statement. It is un-nerving for those serving in our security services to turn around and stoke sentiments with capacity to cause ethnic massacre of a segment of the country namely, the Igbo nation. One way to bring this matter to a closure is for the Federal Government to set up a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to determine the truth in the DSS claim and to investigate the spread of Fulani herdsmen’s clashes with agrarian communities in different parts of Nigeria. The government should also check the proliferation of small arms and take steps to disarm all unauthorized bearing of arms in Nigeria by ethnic militias including the Fulani Herdsmen whom the Inspector General of Police claimed are foreigners. The Igbo are endangered and most remain vigilant and at alert. Our position is same as that of the Tiv’, Igala, Igbira koto and Igbira Okene, Bassa, Agatu, Igede, Yoruba, Nupe, Hausa, Tangale, Taruk, Birom. Angas, Afor, Doma, Gbagi, Bini, Izon, Uhrobo, Efik, Annang, Ibibbio, Kanuri, Kaje, Bokkos, Ishan, Afemai, Itsekri. Jukun, Kataf, Chiboki, Mada, Obi, Gwandara, Idoma, Kanuri, Bachama etc. and others who inhabit the Sahel savannah and the rain Forrest regions of Nigeria. It is still possible that the enemies of ndi Igbo will not relent until they complete the mission to violently attack ndi Igbo. Let those agitating for Biafra do so without constituting themselves into a security threat to the rest of the country. Fulani Herdsmen on the other hand should be encouraged to view agriculture as a business that demands considerable investment and responsibility. Investors in cattle breeding should take a page from the poultry industry by acquiring ranches. The business interests of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), a trade association with membership in the civil service, politics and other Fulani investors should not be allowed to clash against and undermine national security and corporate well-being of Nigeria. The current push by members of the Miyetti Allah in the National Assembly to appropriate lands from various communities to aid and profit its members at the expense of national security should be discouraged as it is now evident that affected communities will resist the move. Finally I must commend Governors Rochas Okorocha of Imo State and Ikechi Ikpeazu of Abia State keeping the facts straight- The promptness of their intervention helped postpone the evil day. We must remain vigilant as I can foresee the gathering storm. We shall overcome.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Between Kwankwaso and Ganduje I write to express my fervent concerns over your recent face-off as the two political leaders of Kano State, who have come a long way together as friends, political allies and colleagues for decades. Whoever takes sides to stoke the embers of enmity in order to raze down your decades-old bond in less than a year, is neither a friend, nor supporter but political panhandler who benefits from the ‘crumbs’ of the crisis. You will recall that I have been at the centre of mediation, making ‘diplomatic’ shuttle in your residences, reaching out to two of you in private in order to find a lasting solution to the crisis. I have been unwavering and steadfast since the formative stage of the misunderstanding, through the period of cold war and now full-blown political

crisis. I have tarried this long to write to you in order to ease the legislative burden of budget passage shouldered on the committee I chair in the House of Representatives. You will bear me witness that I have done a lot, despite this tasking engagement, toward solving the crisis amicably. I cannot be running with the hare and hunting with hounds. I believe the greatest service and show of unalloyed loyalty one should offer you, is to seek ways of brokering the feud in order to avoid muddling the image you built over the years in public by zealot supporters. My standpoint has always been the same. And my belief is that taking sides in this situation is the surest way of escalating the crisis, which may not augur

well for the actors, our great party and our teeming supporters. Dear Sirs, you will also recall that I remain neutral and refuse to sign any document that will signify ‘loyalty’ to either side in order to liaise between you and maintain my role as an arbiter – a role expected of all the law-

makers and notable Nigerians to take. On Wednesday, while sitting in the Chamber preparing documents, preparatory to the passage of the 2016 Budget, my colleague, Aliyu Madaki came to me and asked to append my signature to a three-paragraph

statement. I didn’t hesitate to append my signature as statement reflects my standpoint, which borders on brokering peace not taking sides. •Abdulmumin Jibrin Chairman House of Reps Committee on Appropriations

Fayose’s detractors are enemies of democracy PERMIT me a space in your widely influential medium to disabuse the mind of the general public of erroneous and maligning comments being made about the governor of Ekiti State, Mr Ayodele Fayose. Every student of political history knows that there is no democracy where there is no opposition. It appears that the ruling All

Progressives Congress (APC) is bent on stifling the voice of the Ekiti governor, who, undoubtedly, is the remaining voice of opposition in the country. Since the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lost the general election last year, even the vocal publicity secretary of the party, Chief Olisa Metuh, appears to have been cowed to silence. But Governor Fayose has remained

undaunted in criticizing perceived anti-people policies of the Muhammadu Buhari-led APC government. There still are many PDP leaders whose voices should be heard as active opposition to the APC government. But lull is the word within the rank of the party leaders. • Adeola Oloko Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

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Let Glass House bring peace

part from the keen contest athletes experience in their various disciplines, sport is largely aimed at promoting friendship and unity. Before a basketball match, all the players are expected to shake one another. The same goes for volleyball, handball and many of the team events including football. Individual sports are not left out of the show of friendliness and love. In tennis, table tennis, taekwondo, Judo, wrestling, boxing etc, the athletes exchange pleasantries before and after the event no matter how tension-soaked it was. The exchange of greetings has become a standard practice to promote peace. This is more pronounced in football where the players greet one another and the coaches also do same. It is however sad that those administering the game do not look beyond their noses to imbibe the spirit of love and friendship which all sport federations preach globally. It is disturbing that crisis has virtually become the other name of the Nigeria Football Federation. The body is engulfed in crisis over everything. For its elections, there is always one problem or the other. To engage a coach, there will be problem within the top executives of the federation and other stakeholders in football.

We can count some of the losses the country has incurred due to one crisis or the other in the NFF. Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2015 Nations Cup was a result of leadership crisis between Club Owner Chris Giwa and the then NFF President, Aminu Maigari. The recent ouster from the 2017 edition of the competition was also due to the problem between the NFF and Head Coach Sunday Oliseh who threw in the towel just three weeks to the crucial back-to-back game against the Pharaohs of Egypt. Only last week, Giwa

Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief

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Managing Editor, Business & Strategy n Yemi Ajayi

Managing Editor, Publication & Operations n Emeka Obasi

Managing Editor, South n Emeka Madunagu Managing Editor, North & Abuja n Laurence Ani Editor n Ayodele Ojo Editor, Sunday n Juliet Bumah Editor, Saturday n Waheed Bakare Deputy Editor, Group Head, Newsroom n Geoffrey Ekenna

Bureau Chief, Abuja n Onwuka Nzeshi Bureau Chief, Brussels n Leo Cendrowicz Bureau Chief, Washington DC n Marshall Comins Editorial Coordinator, Europe n Sam Amsterdam

Business Development Manager n Taiwo Ahmed Sales/Circulation Manager n Oyebanji Abiodun Head, Arts & Creative n Ugochukwu Nnakwe Head, Admin. n Robinson Ezeh

spect Pinnick’s right of appeal since the law allows for 30 day before a pronouncement can stand. A day after minister’s pronouncement, Giwa again addressed the press stressing that FIFA and the minister were kidding. He insisted he will hold on to his ‘mandate.’ He also went ahead to dissolve the State FAs and sent the secretary general of the federation, Muhammed Sanusi, on compulsory

We believe the situation is becoming too bad and it is a shame on the country

again re-filed a court case against the federation to throw the nation into another round of football chaos. The NFF acted swiftly by filling for appeal and also a stay of execution. This was done at a time the country was still tackling the issue of whether to engage a foreign or indigenous coach for the Super Eagles. Minister of sports, Solomon Dalung, was silent for three days before he intervened and we frown at this lethargic disposition to such a sensitive issue especially because the minister was accused of being a strong ally of Giwa. Dalung on Monday urged both parties to embrace peace and added that Giwa should re-

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

leave. We believe the situation is becoming too bad and it is a shame on the country that football

administrators cannot embrace peace or follow due process to attain their desires. After the Giwa crisis was resolved in 2015, it was proposed that Amaju Pinnick should reconcile all warring factions but this was never done and even some of his executive members on the board of the federation are accusing him of not carrying them along in decision making. It was alleged that Pinnick, his first and second vice presidents (Seyi Akinwunmi and Shehu Dikko) and the head of technical committee, Chris Green, were the few people running the affairs of Nigerian football. Giwa’s frustration was a

result of the refusal of the current board to close ranks with all stakeholders in the game. It is important to state that the ongoing imbroglio could affect the future of some talented youths in the country. FIFA has sent a warning letter to Nigeria that the country would be banned if the ruling of the Jos court was implemented. It is ignorance that makes people think FIFA’s threat is unreal. FIFA is an independent body that strives to see all its affiliate members enjoy independence in the running of football Recently, the State FA chairmen were in the Federal Capital Territory for a meeting where some decisions were taken on Giwa or and Pinnick. We believe that in conflict situations of this nature, both parties should be ready to shift ground in the interest of peace and the development of football. It is wrong for either party to vehemently maintain a position at the detriment of peace. We make bold to say many of the administrators fight for some of these positions to achieve their selfish desires. The winner in this case should be Nigerian football not Pinnick or Giwa. Mr. minister who had repeatedly told Nigerians that he was a specialist in settling disputes would have to dig deep to settle the current impasse. We can put our house in order rather than allow FIFA to do so for us.

POLITICS

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Abia: Why the gang up on Kalu? Izuoma Ibe

et me put it this way, when two men are always right, no man is right. But when both men are wrong, reality is yet to be revealed. The ‘seeming’ feud between some men who would pass as fathers of Abia State and Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, a former governor of the state, fits into the picture of two men who are yet to own up to their true personalities to put an end to their differences. That may be too straight, but it is less impressing that kings could be waiting for another king from Venus to come into their feud. Maybe, they are waiting for a yet to be born Abian to mend them up. But who will that be and how right are they in their wait? Would they still be proud fathers of the state after the child had reconciled them? I would not want to be driven by the urge to heap praises on these men or talk them down on areas where they have fallen short with regards to governing Abia State, representing Abia State or leading Abia State but emphasis should be given to the fact that their face-off is persisting a towering political divide in Abia State. Between 1999 and 2007, Abia State was in one political kettle, hardly does any other political party bulldoze into the political stream of Abia State smilingly. But today, politics has fallen apart such that even the centre can be tossed around by a political party that had no root at the state. Really, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) scaled through All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) by a hair breath. Yes, as it has, would it in 2019? We shall all see! The harmony which Abia State enjoyed in the first two administrations in this present democratic dispensation cannot be mentioned without commenting on the political romance that existed in the state when no man was ‘actually’ against the other unlike today when men are against men. There was reality in political fights. I am used to being a political news fan of Abia State, not just because that is my state but for the fact that there used to be beauty in the political drives on the scene. Every move was well calculated, not just to gang up against a particular fellow rather, they were all moves strictly for political maneuvers.

Kalu

I still can recall the days when Kalu was receiving and also throwing political darts from the then Abuja based politicians; Ojo Maduekwe, Adolphus Wabara, and the likes, it was an open battle. People may have forgetting the political move also to unseat Kalu as presented by the Federal Government in the person of a nonAbian, Chris Uba, who swore to demean Kalu’s power in the state. Kalu vowed to crush him and did. That was done within the ambits of politics. Had he not crushed all others from the state, would the Federal Government have changed tactics by bringing a foreigner? But why will dogs eat dogs in Abia? Why can’t politics be played within the ambits of politics without scaling into personal issues? If Kalu played politics or governed Abia State in a manner that more attention was paid to the ‘poor’ which brought about his been attacked by the ‘rich’ why won’t that be over now he is out of power? If Kalu enthroned a person who wasn’t their choice

One will not be wrong to believe that all these attacks are borne out of jealousy or fear for Kalu

as his successor, why won’t the ‘beef ’ be over now that they have dinned and are still dinning with the fellow without Kalu in the picture? The more this rift lingers, the more wide the political gulf in Abia State widens; a doom to many whom it will swallow untimely and surprisingly. If these men are all right and Kalu is also right, then are Abians who they have governed and leading the ones wrong? Suffice to say that, hidden lies the truth while lies and deceit and thrown to the media and passed through propaganda and forced down the minds of Abians. It is a known fact that Kalu has always pleaded his innocence in the face of these dart-strikes but can anyone be saint? I know the answer is no. But who are those striking from all angles at one fellow, why the gang up on Kalu? Would we say that when people are publicly executed for crimes which they committed or not that there are no people also stealing at the same time from people at the same scene who are carried away by the event? Does that give a picture of Abia? Who will be that ‘Jesus’ who would ask these people if they have not done same as this woman has done? What more can be done to a man for an offence he (may) have committed? What offence cannot be forgiven by men who teach their children to love one another as admonished by God but yet they still have an enemy out there? Can any of these men come out and state the fact that ‘this is why I am against Orji Uzor Kalu’? I am not and would not hold brief for Kalu because I know, truly that he must have, at some point, offended these men. I still will state it that some offences may be oversight. Were they not oversights? Then, come to the open and tell the world what offence Kalu has committed that you cannot forgive. You take communion in the church, I know many of you are church elders, deacons and the likes but what have you to prove that enmity is wrong in Christendom. The polarization in Abia politics which this seeming feud has ignited and sustaining will lead to a permanent political dent in Abia State. The fact that you all are mute on this issue has made Kalu nothing but a bride to the people who are today showering him with much more love than before.

Go through the votes cast, Kalu deals with you cabals like you don’t exist. But your power is on ‘cabalism’. If a selected few of you guys will always be denying Abians their rightful leaders and representatives, how fair are you all to Abians. How would posterity judge you all? I recall your hasty and immature moves to ensure that Kalu does not return to the PDP; I recall the 1,000 military men deployed to Abia North Senatorial District alone just to stop Kalu from going to the Senate in 2011. I recall all manner of lies fed through the media to undermine Kalu. I recall all manner of character assassinations aimed at the person of Kalu but let me ask, have you people state truly that you have not plotted for once to delete him? But why! One will not be wrong to believe that all these attacks are borne out of jealousy or fear for Kalu. Did you raise an eyelid? Yes, jealousy and fear. For jealousy, Kalu more loved and very enterprising; he has nothing to beg anyone hence his dogged determination to speak out even if the little peanut will go the other way. Yes, you have fear for Kalu because he himself is fearless and can bulldoze his way to any point without bribing any fellow rather his charisma and tact carries him. It should be a wonder to you all that with all the state and federal might to haunt him down, he still flies and make waves in Abia North, Abia Central and Abia South senatorial districts. Just a mere knowledge that he is making a passage on the streets makes for a stampede. A car with the inscription of Kalu will always bring a smile to the face of Abians who always would mutter words; ‘There is no governor like Kalu.’ It is no longer news that Abians cry for his return as governor. Kalu is a man just like Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, T. A. Orji, Ojo Maduekwe, Patience Jonathan, Bola Tinubu, Adolphus Wabara, even me and you. Tell him in secret or openly that which he has done you wrong. He has been writing, speaking to the world that you all are holding him down. Are you guys gagged? Come out and tell of his offence. You don’t want to join words with him? Soon Abians will come after you. •Ibe writes from Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Excitement as Ambode renders stewardship account C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 3

Governor Ambode commissioned a project which connected at least 67 communities in the Ibeju-Lekki axis to the National Grid. This is very highly commendable.” He said the quick response in the rescue of the kidnapped girls in Ikorodu and the quelling of the Mile 12 riot were testimonies of the effectiveness of the security system in Lagos. Also speaking at the event, former Lagos State deputy governor, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye said there was no doubt that Governor Ambode has done creditably well ever since his swearing-in to office on May 29, 2015.

He said: “From my assessment, the governor has done well. He has increased our aerial power to control crime; he has provided additional vehicles and motorcycles for security people to move around and even if you move to Ikorodu where we had a lot of criminal activities like illegal bunkering, that has stopped and the people are living peacefully. “In terms of health, he has done a lot as well; he has provided mobile clinics and on education he has done very well and I know that the school feeding programme would soon start in the state. I have had personal experience with the governor as well as I know that he has had to help people

personally, and that makes me believe that for him to have done so much within just one year, the next three years, he would do much more.” On her part, former Secretary to Lagos State Government, Princess Aderenle Adeniran Ogunsanya, thanked Governor Ambode for the numerous projects which he had sighted in the Ikorodu division, saying it was clear that the governor is working. “I think he is working; I think he has done a lot of ground work and we have been seeing some changes. We welcome the BRT; we welcome the effort he is making to get Isawo Road started. We thank him for that because I know that a few months time, we

will see a great difference,” she said. Other dignitaries at the event were; Secretary to Lagos State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello; member, House of Representatives representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, Jimi Benson; Senators Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon and Gbenga Adefuye; chairman of Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Henry Ajomale; former Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Jokotola Pelumi; Majority Leader of Lagos State House of Assembly, Sanai Agunbiade; lawmakers representing Epe 1 and 2 at the Lagos State House of Assembly, Abiodun Tobun and Segun Olulade, among many others.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Gbagalape Threatened by a ‘Valley of Death’

Inside Abuja

News IOM to support 2.4m IDPs in Nigeria

18 20

Onwuka Nzeshi

he National Children’s Park and Zoo is located in the highbrow Asokoro District of Abuja. It is situated at the foot of Aso Rock, sandwiched among some elite military barracks behind the Presidential. It is used to be a home to a lot of wild life including buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, camels, crocodiles, elephants, monkeys, ostriches, tortoises, wild cats, ducks, parrots and snakes. It plays host to a lot of tourists during public holidays and festivities such as Christmas, New Year, Easter and Salah celebrations. Many families troop there because apart from the variety of animals to watch, there are large green areas with seats under the shady trees for relaxation. Some families who visit the park go along with mats which they spread and relax for hours. The park is open daily from 9a.m. to 6p.m. and admission attracts a token fee of N100 for children and N200 for adults. Although some officials are at the gates to sell the tickets and admit tourists, a visitor goes on tour without any tourist guide. The names of the animals are displayed beside their cages and one could learn a lot about each of them by simply reading the inscriptions on display. In recent times, the park appears to be losing its lure and glamour as many of the exotic animals are no longer there. A recent visit by Inside Abuja showed that the only giraffe that used to be there was no more. The zebras had reduced in number while the camel was also absent. But the ageless tortoise still kept its place. Although it looked dead like a piece of rock, it rears out its head from its shell any time some overzealous children climbed on top of its hard scaly body. The monkeys and baboons are located in a corner close to each other. They are not far from where the stable of the horses and the garden of the ostriches. A tour round these spots would take a first time tourist some 40 minutes if one wants to view all the animals and read up the information inscribed beside them. Inside Abuja learnt that the fad-

Children on horseback at the zoo park

Uncharming National Children's Park and Zoo ing glory of the park was largely due to poor funding. Apart from the gate fees collected by the managers of the park, the facility is expected to benefit from the annual budgets. Every year, the Federal Government made provisions for the

Onwuka NzeshI

ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF nzeshi@newtelegraphonline.com

Children at the zoo park

purchase of exotic animals. A breakdown of the 2015 budget for the Presidency indicate that the sum of N24.6 million was voted for Wildlife Conservation, including the purchase of exotic animals last year. Similarly, another N326 million has been

allocated for the same purpose this year. If indeed these funds are deployed to this park every year, one would have expected a more befitting park with lush green fields and healthy looking animals and birds. What you find there today are few animals that look hungry and unhealthy. Besides this, facilities such as the public conveniences are in a deplorable state and does not paint a good picture for a people desirous of attracting tourists to their country. In spite of these lapses, children always find the park a place of fun as they descend on the play ground as soon as they are through with the animal kingdom. They however also get involved in the prestigious horse ride for those who are not afraid of getting close to the elegant and beautifully decorated beast. Outside the gates of the park, traders make brisk business selling toys, ice cream, water and cold drinks. The photographers are usually on hand to help families capture their memorable moments in their wait and take studios. They are usually the first you meet as you step through the gates and the last because they would come running towards you to deliver their works in exchange for some money.

Inside ABUJA

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Gbagalape: Threatened by

A portion of the Gbagalape road

Caleb Onwe Abuja

“E

ven though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil...” is a popular declaration of faith in the midst of turbulence among Christians. But the statement extracted from the Holy book appears to be losing its value and authenticity in the hearts of the residents of Gbagalape, a densely populated community in the Abuja Municipal Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The reason for this apparent apostasy may not be far from the hellish experience they go through on a daily basis. They move out of their homes every morning with palpable fear in their hearts, as they ply the road linking their community to Nyanya, one of the major satellite towns in Abuja. Prior to the demolition exercises carried out by a former Minister of the FCT, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the Gbagalape community was probably not traceable on the Abuja master plan. However, it suddenly became a destination of refuge to many families displaced by the demolition of illegal structures in the city. It was not a planned settlement but one that grew out of necessity. In no time, it started experiencing an upsurge of migrants who built their shanties the way they deemed fit and made roads through communal efforts. Being one of the border com-

munities located between the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa State, Gbagalape harbours a lot of people who work in Abuja and commute to work in either personal or commercial vehicles. These movements have put a lot of pressure on the only access road. The reality is that the people in this rural community are currently living in fear because the only access road to the city is threatened by a gaping gully erosion. A trip through the Gbagalape link road especially during the rainy season, is not only painful and tearful, but a literal “walk through the valley of the shadow of death.” Ordinarily, a drive from Gbagalape to Nyanya should take not more than 10 minutes but it has turned into hours as motorists are either forced to pack their vehicles and continue the rest of the journey by foot, or are subjected to several unnecessary diversions in search of safe routes. A first time visitor to Gbagalape during the rainy season will not desire a second visit to this squalor settlement. Similarly, a trip on a motorbike from the popular Nyanya/Mopol junction to Gbagalape on a rainy day, is a journey not for the Lillylivered person and the bike riders consider it an unwarranted risk that should be avoided. The few motor cyclists who would agrees to pick passengers will charge between N200 and N300 for a journey that costs between N70 and N100. The several diversions from the Living Faith Church axis of

Gully erosion on part of the road

the road to Ave Maria Private School may provide some momentary respite to commuters, but the taste of the relief is usually lost as soon as one approaches "the valley of death” portion of the road. Aside the fact that the road is usually overflooded to the extent of closing the major lane of the road, necessitating the undesirable diversions; the worst section of the road has no diversion and is almost being cut off by a massive gully erosion. Mallam Usman Idakwo, who resides in the community and

works with the Supreme Court, said the gully erosion on this road has become so deep that any vehicles that falls into it will definitely be considered a complete write-off. “This valley is so slippery that once it rains, descending and ascending it becomes a dangerous adventure for anyone. The only option left to the commuter is to suspend the journey and wait until the road dries, for him to continue the journey,” he said. Idakwo, who chided all the elected officers in AMAC, especially the councillor of Nyanya

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

a ‘Valley of Death’

Erosion eating up the road

Ward, also accused them of being insensitive to the well-being of those who elected them into office. He said that in spite of complaints from the road users, those who have the responsibility of fixing it have done nothing to improve the condition of the road. Another resident, Mr. Eze, who owns a chemist shop in Angwa Gwari section of the community, said that people who cannot bear the terrible experience occasioned by the bad road are moving out of the area. He explained that over the past 10 years he has lived in the community, the major challenges they have had to contend with have been that of bad road, lack of electricity and the menace of armed robbers on the road. Eze also said that the com-

munal efforts over the years to repair the road have not yielded the desired results. “We have severally suggested levying residents especially mo-

Muhammed Bello, FCT Minister

torists who ply the road in order to raise money to construct the road, but there have always been a serious disagreement. The little improvement you can see on that

el-Rufai

Inside ABUJA

road especially at that valley is the efforts of some youths who use stones to fill the road with the intention of soliciting for money from passers-by," he added. Inside Abuja conducted an onthe-spot assessment of the road and observed that it is at the brink of collapse should there be a heavy rain fall. The gully erosion that is threatening to cut off the road has so dug into the road that it has become impossible for two vehicles to pass there at the same time. Many residents of the community who spoke to New Telegraph expressed disappointment with the failure of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) to construct the road with good drainage system. The residents alleged that politicians usually pledged to do something about the road during electioneering only to abandon it after the elections. Some of the residents expressed bitterness that they will be subjected to another nightmarish experience during the rainy season this year due to the bad condition of the road. They also accused the leaders of the community for being partly responsible for their ordeal. They alleged that Senator Philip Aduda, who represents the FCT at the National Assembly, donated an undisclosed sum of money for the repair of the road during his re-election campaign in 2015 but the said fund was misappropriated by some leaders of the community. Reacting to the allegation that funds meant for the repair of the road was misappropriated, the Madaki of Gbagalape Community, HRH Kenneth Robo, said that the purported undisclosed amount of money donated by Senator Aduda was not for the erosion control on the road, but for its grading. “No, the money he brought was for grading of the road and not for the culverts," he said. In a telephone conversation with Inside Abuja, Robo admitted that residents of the community would be in serious trouble if nothing very concrete was done to fix the road and avert the impending disaster. Although, the Madaki claimed that the road has been graded with the funds provided by Aduda, however, on-the-spot assessment by Inside Abuja could not find any evidence of a recent rehabilitation of the road. “Yes erosion wants to cut it off, even as I talk to you, if you go there you will see it for yourself. Last two weeks I was with the AMAC Chairman who promised that he will come and see things for himself, but unfortunately I didn’t see him. We cannot continue like this. I want to call a general meeting so that everybody will offer suggestion on what to do about that road," he said. Robo hinted that some of his people have suggestions that something positive should be done in order to put the road in order before the rains come in full swing. The community leader expressed hopes that government will one day come to the aid of the community, stressing that he has never failed to call the attention of the politicians to the plight of his people each time they visited his palace.

INSIDE ABUJA \ NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

IOM to support 2.4m IDPs in Nigeria Ebere Ameh Abuja

he International Organisation for Migration (IOM) is working with its partners to help Nigeria to support some 2.4 million people displaced by the Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East. Chief of Mission, IOM Nigeria, Enira Krdzalic, said that through its Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) the organisation would collaborate with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to collect data on the humanitarian crisis in Nigeria and neighbouring countries. In addition to DTM and registration, IOM is providing shelter, camp management, psychosocial support, livelihoods and other services to IDPs

and affected populations. IOM’s Communication Assistant, Ikechukwu Hillarion Attah, who disclosed this in Abuja, said that the organisation has commenced an assessment of the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the area and their needs to inform the humanitarian response of the government and the international community. “In the worst-affected state of Borno, IOM teams are currently working in 15 previously inaccessible local government areas and 86 wards and hopes to access other badly affected areas. The data emerging clearly shows very high levels of humanitarian need. “According to the most recent DTM report (February 2016), 1,434,149 IDPs have been identified in Borno, out of a total of

PTD exonerates members from petroleum products' diversion Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

he Petroleum Tankers Drivers (PTD) branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has exonerated its members from alleged diversion of petroleum products across the country. Chairman of PTD, Comrade Salimon Oladiti, in a statement issued in Abuja, said tanker drivers were not responsible for the fuel scarcity but were always committed to conveying products from the product depots to the designated fuel stations where they are sold to consumers. In the statement signed on his behalf by his Media Adviser, Abdulkadir Garba, the PTD boss lamented that

the entire country has been facing acute shortage of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) commonly referred to as petrol for weeks running. Oladiti, while reacting to a statement credited to a member from Lagos State House of Assembly who had accused tanker drivers of products diversion, said the lawmaker was uninformed about the workings of fuel distribution in the country. He challenged the lawmaker to show valid evidence that it was members of the PTD that were responsible for the act of fuel diversion. As a union, he said, PTD imposes sanctions on criminal behaviour within its ranks, adding that diversion, vandalism and all forms of criminal activities are not condoned by the union.

2.4 million in the whole area. As part of the DTM programme, IOM is conducting biometric registration of IDPs in Adamawa and Borno states, as well as in Yobe State, where it is supporting the UN World Food Programme’s Cash Transfer Programme,” it stated. As at the end of March, a total of 124,827 individuals – 98,209 in Borno and 26,618 in Yola have been biometrically registered, adding that the vast majority of IDPs who have been registered live in

host communities, where little or no assistance has been provided due to lack of humanitarian access and security concerns. The data clearly shows the massive scale of the emergency and urgent humanitarian needs. “IOM is working with the government and partners to provide humanitarian assistance to IDPs and other affected populations, but the scale of the problem far exceeds available resources. “IOM called for more donor support, as well

BRIEFLY

Abuja

inister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Senator Aisha Al-Hassan has observed with dismay the low level of women participation in conflict resolution and management in the country. She attributed the disparity in the level of women participation in conflict resolution and management to gender discrimination derived from tradition, culture and religion that placed different values on male and female rights from birth. Al-Hassan, who made this disclosure at the commemoration of the 15th Anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1325,

In terms of physical assistance, Sidi said IOM has supported the NEMA Situation Room, NEMA Gombe Operations Office, the NEMA Borno Zonal Office, and several State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) with office equipment to assist their field officers towards easy access to DTM data. About 92 per cent of the IDPs are hosted by low-income host communities, bringing alreadystretched services and resources under increased pressure.

L-R: Former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili; celebrant, Titilayo Okoye; General Overseer, All Christians Fellowship Mission, William Okoye and Senior Pastor, Dunamis International Gospel Center, Paul Enenche, during the 60th birthday anniversary of Mrs. Okoye in Abuja …at the weekend

Minister decries low women participation in conflict resolution Ebere Ameh Abuja

management to gender discrimination derived from tradition, culture and religion that placed different values on male and female rights from birth. Al-Hassan, who made this disclosure at the commemoration of the 15th Anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1325, said that part of the problem was the noninclusion of women in command position in the armed forces

Transcorp Hilton wins Africa's leading hotel award Ebere Ameh

as deeper collaboration among humanitarian actors for effective coordination of humanitarian assistance to the affected population,” Attah said. Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Alhaji Muhammad Sani Sidi, said the contribution of IOM towards addressing the humanitarian consequences of the insurgency in the North-East was quite profound and deserves special mention.

said that part of the problem was the non-inclusion of women in command position in the armed forces The minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Binta Bello, further enumerated other factors militating against women to include low educational attainment of women, translating to low capacity in conflict management, perceived lack of assertiveness and low status of women in many traditional communities. She stated that the objectives of the forum was to review the implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 National Action Plan, to determine lesson learned. It was also meant to identify best practices on women’s engagement in peace and conflict processes.

The minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Binta Bello, further enumerated other factors militating against women to include low educational attainment of women, translating to low capacity in conflict management, perceived lack of assertiveness and low status of women in many traditional communities. She stated that the objectives of the forum

was to review the implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 National Action Plan, to determine lesson learned. It was also meant to identify best practices on women’s engagement in peace and conflict processes as well as ascertain the constraints and opportunities to women and girls in conflict prevention and management, among others.

USAID partners Nigeria on investment Ebere Ameh Abuja

he United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in partnership with Nigeria and the West Africa Borderless Alliance have hosted a road governance caravan on the southern segment of the Lagos-KanoJibiya (LAKAJI) transport corridor. The caravan which started in Lagos, passed through Ogun and Oyo, and concluded in Kwara State. According to the USAID office in Abuja, the road governance caravan is an advocacy platform, which aims to remove non-tariff barriers to enhance the competitiveness of the LAKAJI corridor. Throughout the week, leading agricultural producers, traders, transporters,

and financiers proposed and advocated for systemic and practical improvements to the movement of goods, transport, capital, and services across Nigeria. In 2013, USAID conducted a baseline study on the LAKAJI corridor. The study revealed that it costs over $3,000 and takes approximately 12.5 days to send a 20-foot container from Jibiya in Northern Nigeria to Lagos. Conversely, it costs nearly $5,000 and takes approximately 19.5 days to ship a 20-foot container from Lagos to Jibiya. The higher cost to transport goods along the corridor is largely due to the lengthy clearance time and associated costs at the Lagos port. The overall cost and delivery times along the Lagos-Kano-Jibiya corridor are significantly greater than similar corridors in West Africa.

INSIDE ABUJA

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Respite for Dasuki?

he ECOWAS Court last week 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 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 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 person’s rights. The court disagreed with Federal Government that Dasuki ought to have filed contempt against the Federal Government for not honouring the bail conditions granted Dasuki by three different courts.

Assets declaration: Roadblock for Saraki

he Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, on Friday lost his bid to stop his ongoing trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), as the Federal

High Court sitting in Abuja okayed the powers of the tribunal to try Saraki. The court also held that the trial of Saraki is not in any way a breach

of his fundamental human rights. Saraki had approached the court seeking to enforce his fundamental human rights as provided by Chapter IV

of the 1999 Constitution. The Senate President had sought to stop his trial at the tribunal on ground that it lacked jurisdiction to sit over the matter.

Court adjourns suit against ACJA to May 25

he Federal High Court sitting Abuja has adjourned the suit a former Commissioner for Information, Abia State, Dr. ACB Agbazuere challenging some sections of the Ad-

ministration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 to May 25 for hearing. Agabazuere had joined the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice and the National Assembly in the suit.

Agbazuere is challenging some sections of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 which he contended are contrary to the provisions of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as Amended).

At the resumed hearing yesterday, counsel to the AGF, Babatunji Coker and that of the National Assembly, S.T. Yenge, brought separate preliminary objections to the suit.

Inside

ABUJA

COURTS

with Tunde Oyesina

Metuh opens defense

defense witness in the ongoing prosecution of the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olisa Metuh, last week told the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja how the Presidency commissioned Metuh to organise publicity for the 2015 presidential elections. The witness, Ike Abonyi, who was media

adviser to the former National Chairman of PDP, Okwesilieze Nwodo, told the court that his principal (Nwodo) hired a consulting firm called CNCConnect to work on the image of the party. He, however, informed the court that the Presidency gave an instruction to Metuh to handle the publicity and the image laundering work of the PDP.

Badeh’s trial continues

Prosecution Witness in the ongoing trial of the former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh (rtd.) had told the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja that he kept no personal records to prove all the cash transactions made between him and Badeh. The witness, a former Director of Finance, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Abdullahi Yushau (rtd) who was cross examined by the defence counsel, Chief Akin Olujimi (SAN), however told the court

that the command finance officer whose duty it was to keep record has all the records of the amount of the dollar equivalent he handed over to Badeh at his official residence on monthly basis and other transactions. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Badeh alongside a firm, Iyalikam Nigeria Limited, on a 10-count of money laundering bordering on alleged fraudulent removal of about N3.97 billion from NAF’s account.

Orosanye and N190m

Dasuki

Saraki

Orosanye

prosecution witness two in the ongoing trial of a former Head of Service of the Federation and former Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Financial Action Task Force (PCFATF), Ste phen Orosanye, has told an Abuja High Court how the defendant opened a secret account in the name of the task force to divert about N190 million belonging to

the Federal Gover nment. The witness, who is an employee of Access Bank Plc., Olubunmi Ojoko, being led in evidence by the EFCC’s lead prosecuting counsel, Ufom Uket, told the court that Orosanye opened the Access Bank account on behalf of the PCFATF in 2012, without obtaining an approval from the Accountant-General of the Federation.

C2Q Property denies abandoning estate project Our Correspondent

2Q Property Development Company Limited has denied abandoning blocks of flats it constructed at the Engr. Ebele Okeke Housing Estate, Lugbe, Abuja. The real estate firm said that contrary to a media report, it has not abandoned any building in the estate or any other estate it has developed elsewhere. New Telegraph had recently published a story on the complaints by some civil servants residing in some federal government housing estates.

These residents claimed that the estate developers often shortchanged them by delivering poorly constructed apartments at exorbitant costs. They also alleged that some of the estates were delivered without the basic infrastructure such as access roads and pipe borne water. In a letter written by J.O. Olukunle & Co, counsel to C2Q Property Development Company Limited, the estate developers said the flats at the Ebele Okeke Estate were duly completed and commissioned by the then Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Bala Mohammed on

19th of June, 2014 to the individual subscribers. According to the law firm, C2Q Property had completed the flats about four years before it was handed over to the beneficiaries. “That our client never abandoned any flat of the estate or other flat(s) elsewhere at all. The estate flats in their entirety (inclusive of Flat C11) were completed in their best shapes and commissioned by the then Minster of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Bala Mohammed on the 19th of June, 2012 before it was handed over to the individual subscribers

(That means the Flat C11 has been readily completed for about four years back and handed over to the allottee/ subscriber in 2013),” the law firm stated. In a bid to tackle the challenge of housing deficit in Abuja, the federal government had toyed with many options and developed several models with a view to giving civil servants the needed relief. One of such government efforts is its collaboration with real estate developers to build a decent and affordable accommodation on owner occupier basis for the civil

servants. The Federal Government Staff Housing Loans Board was established to provide financial assistance in the form of loans to enable them build their own houses. It is usually a tripartite arrangement whereby the civil servant obtains a loan which the Loans Board disburses to an accredited Estate Development Company to build the house. The houses vary in size and cost but the ultimate goal was to ensure that more civil servants were able to secure decent accommodation in the territory.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Gbagyi woman carrying her load on her shoulder

Yekeenn Nurudeen and Nnamdi Amadi

ulture and tradition capture the essence of a people. Culture is like a trade mark and a distinguishing characteristics of a group of people. It differs from place to place. Sometimes, a group of people may choose to behave or do things in a particular manner and over time, that becomes their culture. Among the Gbagyi, one of the major ethnic groups in Abuja, the womenfolk carry loads not on their heads but on their shoulders. It is a common sight when one visits the satellite towns and rural communities such as Bwari, Kubwa, Tunga Majen and Kuje. There have been so many myths surrounding the practice with some persons saying that the women of Gbagyi were of the royal lineage who blue blood forbids them from placing a burden on their crowned heads. Inside Abuja caught up with one of these women recently in the Idu area of the Federal Capital Territory. The woman whose name was given as Helena Danladi is in her early 30s and has been carrying her load on her shoulders since she was a teenager. She is not lettered and therefore could only speak to us through an interpreter. According to her, she met her mother carrying her loads on her shoulders any time she was going to the market or farm. "It is our culture. I don't know how or when it started but that is how I grew up to meet it," she said.

Gbagyi women's style Inside Abuja, however, learnt that there was even a scientific or psychological explanation to the practice of carrying load on the shoulder rather than on the head. Among the Gbagyi women there is the belief that the load is lighter when borne on the shoulder than when it is placed on the head. This might be difficult to prove but it is in the consciousness of the people. Sunday Thomas, a resident of Byazhin Village, Kubwa said the issue of carrying load on the shoulders is as old as the Gbagyi or Gwari people. He said that it is inculcated in children during their formative years and would be a difficult cycle to break. However, this age-long tradition may soon become history as Women in Logistics and Transport (WILAT) recently donated some bicycles to the women of Ija-Pada village in Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory. WILAT, a professional group of women and an affiliate of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, chose Ija-Pada, a community in the hinterland of Abuja, as the first beneficiary of its bicycles donation project. National Coordinator of WILAT, Aisha Ibrahim, expressed optimism that the gesture will provoke actions from the political leaders in the community to seek ways of reducing the burden of poverty on rural women. According to Ibrahim, as

It is our culture. I don't know how or when it started but that is how I grew up to meet it

more women begin to carry their load with the new bicycles others would be encouraged to even buy not only bicycle but also Keke Napep and gradually the stressful habit of carrying loads on the shoulders would be over. Coordinator of Abuja Chapter of WILAT, Aisha Adamu Minjibir, said Ija-Pada community was chosen because they are known to be great farmers and without good road network being in the hinterland. “As part of its social responsibilities, WILAT Nigeria identified the community, where women for cultural/ traditional reasons carry load on the shoulder to markets to be the first to benefit from the project in Nigeria. “We want to assist our fellow women in our own small way, to have a means of transport to move their farm produce and livestock to the market and also from the farms to their houses for family consumption and storage. The bicycle can be used for other purposes such as transporting children to schools, and to fetch water which they can carry on the bicycle instead of their shoulder,” she said. Minjibir stated that the bicycle project was adopted at the WILAT Africa Regional Conference, Arusha, Tanzania in 2015, adding that more communities would benefit from the gesture across the country. Lauding the WILAT initiative, Dr. Kema Chikwe, a former

Minister of Transport, who is also a trustee of the organisation, said the event is a fascinating development. She added that it would go a long way in helping the beneficiaries. According to her, the gesture was unique because it has not only introduced a new culture but will also encourage other well-meaning individuals and corporate organisations to come up with social responsibility ideas that would impact positively on the lives of the less privileged. One of the beneficiaries, Alfa Ibrahim, expressed happiness for the WILAT gesture, stressing that in no time the era of carrying heavy loads by the shoulder would gradually fade away in the community. President, Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), Major General Umaru Usman (Rtd) described the project as an onerous gesture which will impact positively on the lives of the women in the community. The women, Usman said, have been suffering so much carrying loads on their shoulders, a culture he described as degrading. According to him, the bicycles were better because with it the women could convey more loads with less efforts. He observed that the bicycles were not only good for the women’s physical exercise but also environmentally friendly because bicycles were non-pollutant vehicles.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Energy Dissecting NLNG’s N7.8trn tax, dividends

Business What's news Imports: Nigeria, others target countries with weak currencies

Homes & Property N3bn sawmill: New business hub beckons in Agbowa

25 27

Rates Dashboard INFLATION RATE March 2016...............................12.8% 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 15)

(Interbank as at April 15)

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

l Foreign Reserves – $27.450bn as at 14/4/2016

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

Source: CBN

p.24

Nigeria, others eye 2017 single African air transport p.24

L-R: President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Nike Akande; Corporate Communications Manager, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Ms. Ayodele Alabi; Publisher, BusinessDay, Mr. Frank Aigbogun; Human Resources Director, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Ms. Eniola Onimole and Chairman of the Occasion, Dr. Pascal Dozie, at the Top 25 CEOs Awards 2016 held in Lagos.

COST-CUTTING The firm says it has eliminated more wastes and achieves over $100 million reduction in operating cost Adeola Yusuf

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

he Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited has raked in N235.8 million ($1.179 million) in revenue in the first quarter of 2016. Managing Director of the company, Mr. Babs Omotowa, revealed this in an interview with New Telegraph. He also said that the sack of workers was not on the cards now but maintained that other cost reduction measures put in place were yielding positive results. Stating that the NLNG has eliminated more wastes, Omotowa maintained that the company had recorded over $100 million reduction in operating cost. The NLNG, he said, would take a Final Investment Decision (FID) on Train 7 and 8 before 2019. “We know the cycles of oil price and we have diversified our market. We look for opportunities and we have discovered that the best time to construct is when oil price is low. There is no better time to construct than now,” he said. Asked whether the company planned to downsize as a part of measures to overcome the oil price rout rocking the global market, the

NLNG rakes in N235.8m in three months Says no plan to sack workers Targets FID on train 7, 8 before 2019 NLNG helmsman said: “We don’t have that in our plans yet, we are optimistic that all measures we have put in place will be enough. “We have eliminated more waste; stopped expenses we don’t need and in doing this, we have achieved over $100 million reduction in operating cost.” He added that the NLNG had long-term gas supply agreements (GSAs) with three Joint Ventures (JVs) for the supply of natural gas (feed) to the plant. “These JVs are Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), Total Exploration and Production Nigeria (TEPNG) and Nigerian Agip Oil Company Limited (NAOC),” he said. “In response to chronic supply shortages of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) for domestic consumption, NLNG commenced supply of LPG to the Nigerian domestic market in 2007. The first NLNG LPG cargo into the domestic market was discharge at Apapa jetty on December 26, 2007. “To facilitate the Domestic LPG supply Scheme, NLNG executed Sale and Purchase Agreements

$300 million Total amount the NLNG spent on Train 7 and Train 8

(SPAs) with domestic off-takers; all Nigerian companies, and there are 21 contracts in place today. “In line with our commitment to ensure reliability of supply in the domestic LPG market thus helping to grow the market, NLNG committed to make available up to 250, 000 tonnes of LPG for the Nigerian market annually.” Besides, he said: “The Domestic LPG Supply Scheme is based on a Delivered Ex-Ship (DES) model with LPG delivered to the market via a dedicated NLNG-chartered LPG tanker. Since the inception of the scheme in 2007, NLNG has supplied over 700,000 tonnes of LPG. “The LPG Domestic Supply Scheme has been an outstanding success. It has led to increased reliability of supply, which has in turn positively impacted end users prices, and attracted significant private sector investments in infrastructure across the value chain. “The company is currently at an advanced stage of a market deepenCONTINUED ON PAGE 24

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS |news

COSTLY Nigeria is the eight most expensive country in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) Dayo Ayeyemi

ollowing the downturn in the Nigerian economy, triggered by a plunge in oil revenue, importers of products are now sourcing goods from countries with weak currencies and quality products, New Telegraph has learnt. Some of these countries where importers have shifted to include South Africa, Brazil, Argentina and Turkey among others. Imported goods from these countries include wheat, rice, fish, steel, palm oil, textile, building materials and vegetables. It was gathered that forex scarcity and high exchange rate have made importation and businesses difficult for importers until they discovered these alternative outlets. Lending credence to this, Promoter of Trinity Mall in Ikeja and Chairman of Omais Investment Group, Chief Omo Aisagbonhi, said that things had been tough for many business owners due to unfavourable policy of government, adding that foreign exchange restric-

NLNG rakes in N235.8m CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

ing study to enable development and implementation of intervention strategies that will grow the market and expand the adoption of LPG as domestic energy source of choice.” In line with the NLNG’s profile as a growing organisation, Omotowa said the company “will continue to consolidate its position as one of the major and reliable suppliers of LNG in the world.” He said: “NLNG’s expansion plan under the Train 7 plus project, which will raise the liquefaction capacity to over 30 million tonnes per annum, continues to make progress towards a Final Investment Decision (FID). “Already, $300 million has been spent on the project and with the tremendous support we have with this government, we believe that the FID for the Train 7 and Train 8 will come during this administration.”

Imports: Nigeria, others target countries with weak currencies tion had made it worse for importers of building materials and other goods. Nigeria, Africa’s biggest economy, is facing its worst crisis in decades, as the falling price of oil has slashed revenues, prompting the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to peg the currency and introduce curbs to protect foreign exchange reserves, which had fallen to 11-year lows at $27.50 billion as at Tuesday, April 12, 2016. Consequently, Aisagbonhi said importers from Nigeria and some other countries whose economy are down, have been get-

ting products from countries with low currencies, adding that the current downturn had limited patronage to shopping malls. He advised the government to tackle the issues of unstable policy and general import decision. The latest report from the Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) had said that current cost pressures would persist with forex scarcity and naira weakness. The analysts noted that customer traffic to shopping malls was lower last March due to fuel shortage, adding that retail prices for groceries

were up approximately 15 per cent. The experts said: “Consumers continue to down trade by patronising value brands buying cheaper goods. Prices are reflecting the parallel market exchange rate and shortages. Replacement cost pricing is being used for inventory valuation.” They noted that commodity prices across the country had been stubbornly high in the last three months, making Nigeria the eight most expensive country in sub Saharan Africa (SSA). The experts noted that inflation was being

driven by shortages and market imperfection. Currently, cement sells for N1,700 in Lagos, N1,800 in Kano and Onitsha instead of between N1,400 and N1,500. A 100-kilogramme of Garri sells between N11,00 and N11.400, while a bag of rice sells between N13,000 and N13,700 in these three cities. However, analysts at FDC stated that wholesalers hoarding of goods in anticipation of price increase had reduced, while inventory levels of cheaper goods were growing. “Price volatility will increase as interest rates

spike making carrying costs high and prohibitive,” they said. Chief Executive Officer of Broll Nigeria, a real estate company, Mr Bolaji Edu, said recently that one of the major challenges facing the retail sector was the purchasing power in relation to the rents that tenants are paying outside of the first tier cities such as Lagos and Abuja. He added that the focus of the malls in second tier cities such as Enugu, Kano and Ibadan was on groceries and basic essentials rather than the fashion and aspirational shops.

L-R: Chairman, Ewebe FADAMA Users Cooperative Group, Mufutau Oyelekan; Area Head, Legal and External Affairs, West and Central Africa, British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN), Freddy Messanvi; representative of the Commissioner of Agriculture, Lagos State, Abiola Ayoade; and Baale of Ajara Topa, Chief Samuel Owolabani, during the flag-off/inauguration of irrigation facilities donated by BATN to the Ajara Vegetable Enterprise Development Project, Ajara, Badagry, Lagos State.

Nigeria, others eye 2017 single African air transport FRINGE PLAYERS African airlines account for less than three per cent of global aviation revenue Wole Shadare

igeria, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Rwanda and Zimbabwe are at the verge of meeting the target of having a single air transport market by the end of January 2017, Secretary General, African Airlines Association (AFRAA), Dr. Elijah Chingosho, has said. Chingosho said the possibility was very high considering the fact that these nations were ready to implement the Yamoussoukro Declaration that calls for African

countries to open their skies to more flights from African airlines. In a statement made available to New Telegraph, the AFRAA scribe noted that Africa was set to liberalise its aviation zone by the end of January 2017 as it had the potential to double the sector’s size in five years. He stated that eight countries, which collectively control 85 per cent of Africa’s air traffic, planned to open their skies to other African airlines. His words: “Nigeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Morocco, Kenya, South Africa, Rwanda and Zimbabwe are ready to meet the target. We are likely to achieve the target of having a single African air transport market by the end of January 2017”. He noted that the main challenge to opening African skies was from nations wishing

to protect inefficient national carriers from foreign competition. “Some of these inefficient airlines lobby their governments not to allow competition from other African airlines. “However, we try to convince these governments that competition is good for everybody because it will eventually improve the innovativeness of the sector.” Chingosho believes the African aviation sector can double in the next five years if the industry is fully liberalised, meaning all bilateral air service agreements should be abolished. He said the continent needed strong airlines to compete with global carriers and small, weak airlines, adding that those that cannot compete should be discouraged. AFRAA said that the combined fleet of African airlines only

numbers 760 aircraft, lamenting that this is just half the size of one single airline like American Airlines (AA) with 1,494 aircraft. He noted that African airlines accounted for less than three per cent of global aviation revenue. AFRAA’s Director, Commercial, Corporate and Industry Affairs, Raphael Kuuchi, said that with fast growing economies and swelling middle class estimated to reach 300 million by 2030, and less than 15 per cent of the continent’s one billion population ever travelled by air, Africa has enormous potential for air transport growth. To unleash this potential, Kuuchi noted that the market must be liberalised, as is the case in other regions of the world. He noted: “The liberalisation of the internal

markets in China and India resulted in phenomenal traffic growth and the emergence of big and successful airlines. By dominating their domestic markets, carriers in these regions have a traffic base with which they are able to compete with foreign airlines on intercontinental routes. “In Africa, over 80 per cent of all intercontinental traffic is carried by foreign airlines. In addition, some foreign airlines are given 5th freedom traffic rights to compete with African airlines on intra-African routes.” The airline chief said the days of waiting for the government subventions were long gone, hinting that airlines were aware of this. He, however, stated that the continent’s aviation experts expect governments to create a level playing field where fair competition thrives.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Energy

Dissecting NLNG’s N7.8trn tax, dividends Despite receiving a total of N7.793 trillion from the NLNG in 17 years, the federal government still borrowed N600 billion to pay salary annually. ADEOLA YUSUF reports that little was achieved with the gas levy

or over 55 years, Nigeria has been battling with power supply crisis. The country of about 170 million people generates less than 4,500 Mega Watt (MW). This dismal power supply is being blamed on inadequate gas supply to the thermal plants across the country. Curiously, the country has received $39.56 billion (N7.793 trillion) in dividends, taxes, levies and other remittances on gas in 17 years. Gas levies The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) limited paid $65 billion (N12.8 trillion) in dividends, taxes and gas purchase levies to its shareholders; 61 per cent of this money went to the covers of governments at different levels of government between 1999 and 2015. The company’s 17 years financials obtained by New Telegraph shows that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), which manages the federal government’s share in the NLNG, received $15.69 billion (N3.09 trillion), over 40 per cent of the total remittance to the government as dividends. Stating that NLNG limited raked-in $90.370 billion (N17.802 trillion) during the period under review, the document revealed that 44.44 per cent of these revenues was ploughed back to Nigeria through dividends and gas purchase to the NNPC, Company Income Tax (CIT) and Education Tax (ET) to the Federal Inlands Revenues Services (FIRS), Pay As You Earn (PAYE), Withholding Tax, Value Added Tax (VAT), state and Local Government taxes, regulatory fees and levies, and local contracts for goods and services. Between 1999 and 2015, the dividend to the government through shareholding by NNPC was $15.348 billion; gas purchase through NNPC was $11.87 billion; gas purchase through escrow as per agreement between NNPC and the other JV partners under modified Carry Agreement (MCA) was $1.152 billion. Also, $3.862 billion paid as Company Income taxes and Education taxes to the FIRS between 1999 and 2015; $334 million paid as PAYE; $946 million paid as withholding tax; $647 million paid as Value Added Tax (VAT); $8.159 million paid as taxes to state and local government; $299.062 million paid as regulatory fees and levies and $5.053 billion paid to local contracts for goods and services. In 2015 alone, its corporate income tax paid to the Federal

Gas flaring

Government amounted to about $2.2 billion,the NLNG report said, adding that since 2008, the company also contributed about four per cent of Nigeria’s yearly Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Up in ‘flames’ Despite these figures, the federal government is borrowing an average of N600 billion annually to augment payment of workers’ salaries. Secretary to the Government of the Federation David Lawal Babachir, who confirmed this, revealed that the federal government gets N130 billion, and sometimes if it is lucky, it gets N200 billion ($1 billion) from federation allocation annually. $2.2 billion was paid into this account as Company Income Tax (CIT) and Education Tax (ET) by the NLNG alone in 2015. “The federal government gets N130 billion, and sometimes if it is lucky, it gets N200 billion from federation allocation, and we have an expenditure profile of roughly N800 billion to N900 billion. Naturally, you need to augment sources from everywhere and from wherever you can find it. “I am talking about local borrowings, not international. There are ways and means to raise the money, because the monies coming from the federal allocation are not enough and the figures are not fixed; it varies from month to month, depending on what enters into the treasury and our own share of it from federation account, just like the states,” Babachir said. The states were likely going to have difficulties paying salaries in the next four months. “Just like in the states, you remember Osun state got N55million in a month from the federal allocation and the state has a salary bill of over N4 billion in a month,” the SGF said. Bankrupt states About 72 per cent of states in Nigeria are showing signs of bankruptcy and if nothing is urgently done to revitalise their

Nigerians should know why the government’s account is so dry to warrant borrowing to pay workers’ salaries

earnings, the gas taxes and dividends accruable will continued to be used to service these states. A statistics of the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that these states operate Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) accounts that are insolvent. The NBS only identified the 11 states (Ogun, Anambra, Borno, Edo, Bauchi, Abia, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, Taraba and Sokoto) as the only states that recorded improvement in their 2014 records of revenue generation performance in 2015. In its latest Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, report obtained by this newspaper, which was based on records from the Joint Tax Board and states’ boards of internal revenue, the NBS noted that the IGR earnings in 24 other states declined from the levels attained in the previous year. While Ebonyi was the only state whose IGR records were not available, some of the 24 states that performed poorly included Kwara, Imo, Bayelsa, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Ekiti and Enugu. Others are Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Lagos, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Yobe, and Zamfara states. Details of the performances of respective states showed that Ogun State’s IGR records were adjudged best, with a 49.42 per cent increase, almost doubling the N17.5 billion revenue earned in 2014 to N34.6 billion. Anambra followed closely, with its IGR rising by about 29.32 per cent from N10.45 billion in 2014 to N14.79 billion, while Borno came third with a 21.8 per cent improvement from N2.76 billion the previous year to N3.53 billion. Other states with improved performances included Edo (10.95 per cent), Bauchi (10.2 per cent), Sokoto (9.75 per cent), Taraba (8.57 per cent), Abia (7.33 per cent), Nasarawa (4.59 per cent), Niger (3.98 per cent) and Kogi (3.05 per cent). Meanwhile, overall performance of the 36 states showed that the total IGR realised for the year dropped

by 3.69 per cent, from N707.86 billion in 2014 to N682.67 billion. Among the poor performers, the NBS showed that Kwara state topped, with its IGR declining massively by about 73.57 per cent, from about N12.46 billion realised in 2014, to about N7.18 billion in 2015. Imo, whose IGR in 2014 dropped by 48.3 per cent, from N8.12 billion to N5.47 billion the following year, followed the Kwara state. Yobe state came third with a 36.53 per cent drop in its IGR from N3.07 billion in 2014 to N2.74 billion in 2015. Others included Bayelsa (25.76 per cent), Jigawa (23.46 per cent), Plateau (19.42 per cent), Ondo (16.05 per cent), Cross River (16.01 per cent), Zamfara (14.88 per cent), Adamawa (12.19 per cent), Kaduna (10.8 per cent) and Gombe (8.61 per cent). Also included among the poor performers were Benue (8.55 per cent), Rivers (8.54 per cent), Katsina (7.46 per cent), Kebbi (6.73 per cent), Enugu (6.47 per cent), Akwa Ibom (5.99 per cent), Osun (5.45 per cent), Ekiti (4.99 per cent), Delta (4.93 per cent), Oyo (4.11 per cent), Lagos (2. 96 per cent), and Kano (0.37 per cent). All other oil producing states of the Niger Delta, outside Edo and Abia states, could not meet their 2014 IGR levels, with their average earnings dropping by about 6.6 per cent. In terms of IGR volume, Lagos state was ranked highest with a total of N268.23 billion during the period under review, followed by Rivers with N82.1 billion, and Delta with N40.81 billion. Tracing the gas tax The federation account, this paper discovered, is left with nothing from the N7.793 trillion ($39.56 billion) taxes, dividends and remittance from the NLNG. Where is the money and why has in not impacted on the gas-topower generation? The last thing that was heard of the money received from the NLNG was that it was shared CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS | Energy

‘Why power outages persist in Edo communities’ DEARTH Power sector has been starved of investments since 1984

ivil society activist, Reverend Olu Martins, has explained to residents of communities in Egor area of Benin, Edo state that the reason why

they are experiencing power outages arising from inadequate supply, was that Benin Electricity Distribution Plc. [BEDC] is facing challenges due to inability of Generating Companies (GenCos) to generate more electricity for domestic and industrial needs. Rev Martins, who made the assertion during a town hall meeting held in Ugbowo, said there was a great challenge of power in Nigeria with less than 5,000 megawatts to a pop-

ulation of 170 million, stressing that the current energy output of 1,500 was a reflection of the perennial energy crisis that was yet to be addressed. He explained that the power sector has been starved with investment since 1984 whereas the country has increased in population and infrastructure, adding that current operators of BEDC spent huge amount to purchase the company and “it is only natural for them like businessman to get their

returns on investment and equally make profit, hence they are to give services only to those who will pay for it”. The civil society activist noted that the government was not subsiding electricity or any point of the power value chain, namely: generation, transmission or distribution. He stressed that power is no longer a social but commercial commodity, whose prices is determined by the forces of demand and supply.

Power installation

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

among states of the federation. The 36 states of the federation and FCT in 2015 alone shared a total of $2.1 billion dollars being money released to them from the NLNG taxes. Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande, said that the government’s decision to share the money was in line with the implementation of the three-pronged financial intervention of President Muhammadu Buhari to states. It said that, in line with the three-pronged formula, planning meetings were being held between members of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), on the one hand, and also between CBN and commercial banks on the other hand. Akande explained that the meetings were to determine the details of the special intervention, debt relief programme of the President for the states and loan profiles of states. “Already, it has been agreed that existing state loans be restructured for 20 years, and regarding the bond option, the rates to be applied will be market-based but with a cap to make it affordable. Within weeks from now, the states are expected to start benefiting from two other parts of the presidential intervention,” he said. Specifically, the first part of the intervention was the sharing of about 2.1 billion dollars in fresh allocation between the states and the Federal Government, while the second part involves a CBN - packaged

Rev Martins, who supported the recent tariff review, which saw a slight increase in tariff and removal of fixed charge, urged communities to manage their consumption by switching off appliances when not in use. Also speaking, Chief State Head, Edo Engr. Fidelis Obishai, explained that the quantum of energy supplied to BEDC from the national grid was barely sufficient more so with the system collapse experienced at the generation point of the value chain. He therefore urged customers to pay for the little energy they were getting. “BEDC is here to distribute electricity and collect revenue. With a customer base of 750000 in our coverage states we need 2,600 megawatt but we only get 320 megawatts, which means we don’t have enough to distribute. “BEDC is not punishing anybody through inadequate supply but resorted to load management to ensure that all customers get a feel of what is given to us” Engr. Obishai stated. He lamented that BEDC has not been able to collect money to the tune of the amount it pays for the cost of power, stressing that customers should strive to pay whatever little they were getting to enable BEDC honour obligation to various tiers of the value chain.

Dissecting NLNG’s N7.8trn tax, dividends

Kachikwu

special intervention fund of between N250 billion and N300 billion that will be offered to the states as soft loan. The third stage is a debt relief by the CBN and Debt Management Office DMO), which will help states to convert their commercial bank loans into bonds and restructuring such loans by extending their life span, thereby reducing the debt-servicing expenditure. Playing politics with tax Following the plea by some State Governors to President Muhammadu Buhari for rescue in order to pay workers salary in 2015, Buhari assented to the release of the sum of N1.2 trillion. At least 12 of the 36 States including Osun, Rivers, Oyo, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Ondo, Plateau, Benue, and Bauchi states were believed to owe their workers over N110 billion in

Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Governor Abdulazeez Yari

salaries and allowances. Following the release of the fund, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a statement through its National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, insisted that the fund was saved by the immediate past administration. “It is gratifying to note that gradually the evidence of monies left behind by the PDP-led administration is coming to public light despite effort by the new government to hide the facts. The public had been made aware that $2 billion was left in the Excess Crude Account (ECA) for which the Accountant–General and the APC confirmed approvals for the withdrawal of $1.7 billion,” Metuh said. This did not however, go down well with the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, who said that the PDP claim was false and ridiculous.

Omotowa

He said: “The Presidency deplores the attempt by the PDP and its agents to create an unnecessary controversy over the well-intentioned effort by President Muhammadu Buhari to give some relief to state governments and long-suffering public sector workers. Metuh’s claim that a significant amount of the funds came from savings accumulated in the Excess Crude Account and handed over to the Buhari administration is completely false and deliberately intended to mislead the public,” Adesina said. Putting payment in perspectives Regardless of the politics being played on the simple tax issue, Managing Director of NLNG, Mr. Babs Omotowa, declared that $39.56 billion (N7.793 trillion) in dividends, taxes, levies and other remittances was paid to the governments at different levels in Nigeria in 17 years.

Even though the unedited 2015 NLNG account, according to the company’s helmsman, showed a shortfall of about $3.95 billion (N778.15 billion) revenues between 2014 and 2015, the company’s investments currently stood at about $15 billion. “Our revenue in 2014 was $10.79 billion ($10.791, 380, 802.13) while from the 2015 unedited account of the company, our revenue was $6.84 billion ($6, 843, 087, 203.00). This was due to the fall in oil prices, which also affected the gas industry as well as the prolonged uncertainty in the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB),” he said. He said that the company also over the years paid dividends of almost $32 billion to its shareholders - NNPC, Shell, Total and Eni, out of which 49 per cent went to the Federal Government, courtesy of its shareholding in the company, again via NNPC. The NLNG, its helmsman said, has been contributing to national wealth and economic well being of states in which it operates by paying all applicable taxes and levies. Conclusion Nigerians should crave to know not only the where-about of N7.793 trillion ($39.56 billion) the government received as dividends through NNPC, taxes through FIRS and remittance through federal, states and local government from NLNG in 17 years but also to know why the government’s account should be so dry to warrant borrowing to pay workers’ salaries despite receiving these huge monies.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Homes&Property

L-R:General Manager, First World Communities, General Tunde Reis (rtd) and Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, during an inspection visit to the new site for Oko-Baba Sawmill at Agbowa, Lagos

N3bn sawmill: New business hub beckons in Agbowa Enhanced land and property values, job opportunities, improved land use, urban development and infrastructure will come into play with the Agbowa sawmill. DAYO AYEYEMI reports

f the efforts of the Lagos State Government to create a new urban economy in an eco-friendly environment is anything to go by, the popular Okobaba saw millers in Ebute Metta may be relocated to a modern industrial sawmill complex at Agowa, Owu Ikosi, in Ikosi-Ejirin Local Council Development Area (LCDA) before the end of the year. New Telegraph learnt that the new project, which was awarded to Messrs First World Communities (FWC) in 2012, is nearing completion. Although the project was initially sited in Ejinrin, a coastal community in Epe, the decision to relocate was based on the Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) findings that the site was not good enough. Facilities As at the last count, according to an impeccable source in

the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, about 150 band saw sheds and offices had been completed. In addition, an installation of sheet piles for shoreline protection covering a total length of 700 meters had also been completed, as well as dredging and sand filling of platforms for the band saw sheds and sales offices at the west, west central, central and east central axis. The source disclosed that work on the eastern axis was at an advanced stage, while dredging and channelisation of Rivers Shinwo and Odo Iya Pupa to link the lagoon and prevent flooding of the business area was on course. “Other amenities completed include the meeting hall, block of restaurants and block of public toilet facilities,” the source said. In 2014, the Lagos authorities had disclosed that the sign-off fee and fund approved for the construction of the link road (earth road) proposed to connect the project site with Itokin-Ikorodu highway had been obtained. The authorities told journalists that engagement of investors who had shown interest in converting saw dust waste into industrial products was ongoing, while the required funds had been approved for movement of equipment and machinery for the saw millers including the auxiliary services such as saw doctors, engineering, wood planning, turn-

Timber dealers have a fundamental right to conduct their business with basic dignity and in decent conditions

ing and photo frame workshop. Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) clearly stated condiOpportunities tions for relocation. Possible advantages inher“If somebody is alleging that ent in the project, according they want to force them to Agto the Lagos State Government bowa, this is not true. There is include employment oppor- no plan to drag us to Agbowa tunities, enhanced land and until the project is completed,” property values within proj- he said. The five associations repreect location and its environs and improved land use plan- sented at the briefing include ning to enhance environmen- the Association of Planning tal sustainability. Others are Machine Operators, Welders health and aesthetic quality; and Blacksmith Association, potential for the redevelop- Carpentry and Furniture Asment of the site at Ebute-Metta sociation, Wooden Tur ners in line with the operative of Association and Photo Frame Mainland Model City Plan and Association. redistribution of population, Onikeku said the associaeconomic activities and infra- tions had come to support Govstructure through balanced ernor Akinwumi Ambode and urban and regional planning. his cabinet for their concern in speeding up the completion of Matters arising the project, pointing out that As saw millers and officials the authorities had not hidden of the state government are anything about the new facilputting heads together for fi- ity from them. nal conclusion of the project, The Lagos saw millers’ asa particular group, under the sociation boss said: “There auspices of Oko Baba Stake- is nothing that is being done holders, claimed to have sued in our absence. Government the Lagos State Government promised that the work will be over the proposed relocation. finished before our relocation In a swift reaction, the commences. The team for the President of Lagos Mainland project is committed. Saw Millers Association, Alh“The stakeholders’ meeting aji Abdulganiyu Onikeku, in we had at Agbowa was attendcompany of other five associa- ed by all of us to sort out the tions, dissociated themselves grey areas. My people visited from the entire suit, saying Agbowa and the contractor that those behind it were not showed us the project and we original stakeholders in the were satisfied. “Governor Akinwunmi Amproject. He said that the govern- bode proposed to commission ment was not forcing them to the project in April but we rerelocate as alleged in the suit, CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 pointing out that the project’s

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Business | Homes & Property

Inflation: Investors target valued properties BOOST Lagos to receive construction of 10 new building projects in 2016 Dayo Ayeyemi

s international investors test the nation’s real estate’s waters, going by the increasing commercial Grade A office enquiries in first quarter of 2016, many of them are looking for valued properties to invest in, a new report from Fine and Country West Africa has revealed. According to the study, the investors are seeking high yield properties to invest, as owner-occupiers and as investment to retain their value against inflation. They pointed out that corporate institutions would continue to rent good quality properties, adding, “businesses may shrink, but those who remain will expand and some rapidly. “New businesses will become more profitable, as they get more conservative”. The analysts noted that despite the ongoing fuel queues, there had been an increasing sense of stability even as the country is approaching the one-year anniversary of President Muhammadu Buhari’s government.

There is a real opportunity for those who understand how to identify and uncover the opportunities that do exist. They foresaw more transactions in real estate in April (this month), attributing it to the change in weather in most locations. “April traditionally has become a month where the most real estate transactions occur. It may be attributed to the change in weather in most locations. It signifies a fresh beginning for most people of faith,” the analysts said. The experts advised devel-

fused and government gave the contractor six weeks to complete the project. Government promised to complete the project before relocating us”. Govt’s position But the Commissioner in Lagos’ Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Wasiu Anifowoshe, bemoaned the present location and situation in OkoBaba at Ebute-Metta where hundreds of tons of polluted materials are being dumped into the sea. The poor sanitary conditions in the location, he said, included dilapidated structures, high occupancy ratio, physical dullness of the surrounding in terms of landscaping and social amenities, inadequate provision or complete lack of public facilities and haphazard architectural design. “To underline the mega city status of Lagos State and in line with the mandate of the ministry, there is need to accept the reality of urban growth and determine where the new residents will live,” he said. The commissioner said the

Additional, the report stated: “At Fine and Country, we are not cautiously optimistic. We are very optimistic about the unfolding opportunities in this volatile, uncertain, challenging and ambiguous mar-

ket place”. For buyers, they urged them to become more ‘assertive and assured’ in April. Despite the ongoing economic hardship in the country, Lagos is expected to receive the construction of 10 new building projects in 2016. These projects, according to experts, include the developments of Orange Island, Lorenzo De’ Medici, Oasis Centre and Chelsea Hotel. Others are Lagos Urban Rail Blue line, Marriott Lagos Waterfront Hotel, Atlantic Resort, Wing office complex,

Kingsway Tower and No 4. Bourdillion. They are expected to change the skyline of Lagos, the commercial hub of Nigeria, in the next 10 months. Already, works have commenced in some of the project sites. Orange Island, which is a new small city, is located in Lekki area of the metropolis and covers 150 hectares of land, while Lorenzo De’ Medici, a residential development, covers 42,000 metre squares. Full completions of both developments are expected in 2018.

One of modern estates in Lekki, Lagos

N3bn sawmill: New business hub beckons in Agbowa CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

opers and investors to become attentive, adaptive and put on their top game. Besides, they enjoined developers to enlist top advisors and agencies, “and remember that cheap may end up costing you more. This is not the time to be tentative about presenting your property intelligently.”

project was meant to improve the quality of life for the timber dealers, to address overall city planning issues and to promote and spread economic development to all parts of the state by putting into motion an organised economic, social, institutional and community activities that are needed to turnaround the area. “We realised that the timber dealers have a fundamental right to conduct their business with basic dignity and in decent conditions. Redevelopment effort is aimed at creating a dynamic community where there is a sense of ownership, entitlement and inward investment,” he said. To start with, he said the gover nment had engaged participatory approach comprising consultations, partnerships, and participatory decision making in planning relocations. Conclusion All hands should be on deck to ensure that the project achieves its aims of creating a new business hub in Agbowa, while giving room for the emergence of a new city within the Ebute Metta environs.

Blame govt for incessant building collapse, says Ajani Olushola Riccket

egulatory bodies responsible for monitoring of construction must be blamed for cases of building collapse, the Managing Director of Janbuz Engineering and Construction, Oluwatoyin Ajani, has said. Speaking with New Telegraph, Ajani insisted that the government must continuously monitor building construction no matter how small to guard against collapse. He pointed out that ordinary soil failure could lead to structural failure in a building. Ajani said: “Before a building is approved, who are the people in charge? There should be basic requirements without delay because people avoid government’s policies because of the stress and endless wait. They could hold your drawing for six months without approval. Government should have agents that visit sites regularly to check things”. Admitting that he might not be able to speak authori-

tatively on the recent building that collapsed in Lekki, Lagos, he stated that some measures that would have averted the dangers were obviously overlooked. “I didn’t know what really went wrong, but I strongly feel that negligence was responsible for the collapse. The problem would likely be from the materials used on the site or the person who designed the project. “What did they design it for? Do they really design it for a 5-storey building? People are just fond of making comments on issues they know nothing about,” he said. The Janbuz boss believes that building collapse would reduce if the regulatory bodies stand their ground. Citing an example, he explained that they were working on a project and the client suddenly requested to add two more buildings. “Our initial design was a two-storey building, but the client came to me and asked for another two. I said it wasn’t possible because we had a design. I have to stand my ground, but the truth is that the man could decide to

bring another engineer that would take the building to 16-storey,” Ajani explained. Ajani, who had used over a decade in construction, insisted that his company had what it takes to deliver on any project. “Janbuz Engineering and Construction can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with any organisation. All our engineers are certified and we have certified quantity surveyors,” he said. He, however, lamented that the rush for cheap materials was killing the industry. “Some clients want cheap things and lack patience. They don’t want to pay for good job and forget that construction works take time. Ajani also bemoaned the government for not considering indigenous firms when contracting out projects. “Government doesn’t encourage indigenous firms. I am an engineer, but I cannot get contract to build road in my state. What are we encouraging? “They don’t believe in indigenous companies and there are lots of foul play if you are to be considered for contracts,” he said.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

AVIATION

Is opening up Africa’s airspace a mirage?

Egypt Air

WOLE SHADARE writes that it is often more convenient and faster to fly from a city in West Africa via London, Paris and back to a neighbouring city in West Africa, than to travel direct

hile many air markets between Africa and countries outside of Africa have been liberalised to a significant extent, most intra-African aviation markets remain largely closed due to restrictive bilateral agreements, which limit the growth and development of air services. This has limited the potentials for aviation to be an engine of growth and development. Not a few believe that aviation has the potential to make an important contribution to economic growth and development within Africa. Connectivity, time saving for passengers The potential passenger benefits of liberalisation come not just from fare reductions. This can also result in saving time for passengers (fast direct services rather than time-consuming connecting itineraries) and greater convenience (a greater choice of departure times). Enhancing air connectivity can help raise productivity, by encouraging investment and innovation, improving busi-

ness operations and efficiency. To analysts, air transport is indispensable for tourism, where convenient air service facilitates the arrival of larger number of tourists to a region or country. Interconnectivity and liberalisation are interwoven; a situation that made head of governments in the continent to push for a declaration that for air transport to grow and for African airlines to benefit from passenger traffic in the continent, they must implement the Yamoussoukro Decision (YD), which is the opening up of Africa airspace for African airlines, a Declaration initiated in 1998 and ratified by countries in the region in 1999. In 1999, the YD was adopted out of recognition that the strict regulatory protection that sustains national carriers has detrimental effects on air safety records, while inflating airfares and dampening air traffic growth. It followed up on the Yamoussoukro Declaration of 1988, in which many of the same countries agreed to principles of air services liberalisation. The Decision commits its 44 signatory countries to liberalisation. To bring this to fruition, African airlines had to work together and this would be enhanced by the open skies treaty in order to curb the incursion of non-African mega carriers from the Gulf states, Europe and the US, which presently have 80 per cent of the market, while African airlines only have 20 per cent of the traffic in the region, down from 60 per cent control about 20 years ago. Unfortunately, many African countries have refused to implement this agreement. Only 11 out of 54 counties have

complied with implementation scheduled to begin in 2017.

Many bilaterals still follow the constrictive Bermuda model established over 50 years ago

Protectionist policies The desire by each country to have a national airline and the absence of a mechanism to form and jointly own airlines on the continent is a major impediment to liberalisation. A number of countries continue to restrict market access under the pretext that their national airline is not ready to compete in a liberalised market. Other countries insist that non-local airlines pay royalties for the privilege of using additional frequencies beyond what is allowed under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA). Improved connectivity can offer considerable time savings and convenience for passengers. For example, in 2013 there was no direct service between Algeria and Nigeria. The most convenient routing available was via Morocco (Algiers-Casablanca-Lagos). The minimum journey time for this routing is nine hours, but depending on connecting times could be as much as 17 hours (no more than two daily frequencies were operated between Casablanca and either Algiers or Lagos). A direct service would reduce the travel time between Algiers and Lagos to approximately four to five hours. For smaller cities and secondary airports, the potential time savings are even greater. For example, to fly from Oran (Algeria) to Kano (Nigeria) would currently involve a 1423 hour two-stop itinerary. With an Algiers-Lagos service in place, the connecting itinerary could be reduced to around 8-10 hours. If a direct service between Oran and Kano could be sustained, the flying time

would be reduced to approximately by four hours. It would be recalled that Africa’s air transport sector has suffered from more than just high prices and unprofitable routes — safety and reliability are also significant issues for operators. Africa’s aircraft hull loss accident rate is more than six times higher than those of Asia and Latin America, and more than 12 times higher than those of Europe and North America. Benefits of intra-African liberalisation In addition to the direct benefits to users, the increase in air service and traffic is forecast to stimulate employment and economic growth in a number of ways. For tourism sector, air service facilitates the arrival of larger numbers of tourists to a country; this includes business as well as leisure tourists. The spending of these tourists can support a wide range of tourism-related businesses: hotels, restaurants, theatres, car rentals, etc. Total impact Across 12 countries, such as Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia and Uganda, liberalisation is projected to generate 155,100 jobs and nearly $1.3 billion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) according to Intervistas Consulting, a firm engaged by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to undertake a study to examine the impacts of liberalising intra-African air markets. It says that the largest employment is in Uganda (18,600 jobs), followed by Nigeria, Kenya, Angola, and CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS | AVIATION

Expert profers solution to boost export TAX HOLIDAY Nigeria has found herself in a position where importation no longer pays Wole Shadare

he Federal Government has been asked to remove landing costs for carriers of perishable items in order to encourage exports. The Chief Executive Officer of FMC Aviation Services Limited, Mr. Herbert Odika, also called for a halt in double taxation by aviation agencies. “For perishable items, if the government can give concession in terms of taxes, I will not subscribe to out rightly removing them but concession in terms of lowering them and out rightly removing landing costs for carriers of these perishable goods to encourage them to come into Nigeria and lift and also encourage farmers” According to Odika, it is time for Nigeria to commence exportation of her items to the outside world while government should learn to concession taxes. While noting that volume of cargo importation into the country had drastically dropped, the cargo expert urged the Federal Government to take advantage of the situation to encourage export by providing enabling environment. He explained that the country was recovering from

a lot of debts and that the financial capacity to sustain what was on ground at the moment had been a challenge hence a lot of carrier were re-assessing in coming into the country. “If you are flying your aircraft at 50 per cent load factor you go back and reassess the inability of coming into the country. It is not only about signing agreements, it is profit oriented, for now, there is a lot of meltdown especially in the area of cargo and with the current exchange rate in the financial world, it is not

Ethiopia. In absolute terms, South Africa is projected to have the largest GDP increase ($283.9 million) but in percentage terms, the largest impact is in Namibia (0.56 per cent of GDP), followed by Uganda, Senegal, Angola, and Tunisia. Expert’s perspective The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ethiopian Airlines, Tewolde Gebremariam lamented, “Today non-African airlines have 80 per cent of the traffic of the intercontinental air travel from the continent; yet the region gains nothing from the domination of these mega carriers. “Twenty years ago, the combined African airlines market was more than 60 per cent of the intercontinental traffic between Africa and the rest of the world. Back then, there were airlines as big as Air Afrique, Ghana Airways, Nigeria Airways, the Democratic Republic of

impressed that the model that they put in place is the attractive fare but I don’t know what their profits margins are but I want to say they have done very well in terms of starting this.” He said with the experienced leadership of the airline in understanding the dynamics of the business they would be able to sustain its operations. Odika urged the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to closely monitor airlines maintenance in the country by checking that all

their books were up to date. He Advised the Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, to look into how directives were given in the past especially to airline, that accepted directives in the past only for them to run into accumulated bills. He explained that increments should be over time and justified in any area of airline operations, adding that when directives were given spontaneously as a result of the nature of business airlines will not speak up leading to negative effects.

L-R: ICT Officer, Nigerian High Commission, Ghana, Mr. Kalu Oji; Head of Flight Operations, Med-View Airlines, Captain Godfrey Ogbogu; Senior Agency Manager, Mr Azeez Abass; Country Manager Medview Airline (Ghana), Mr. Gideon Femi-Awe, and Head, Ground Operations, Mr Ajigbotosho Michael Ola, during MedView Airlines/ Trade Partners’ Forum held at Nigerian High Commission in Accra, Ghana, recently.

Is opening up Africa’s airspace a mirage? CO NTINUED FROM PAG E 29

profitable to import now. “Basically as a country, I think it’s an opportunity for people to go into export, the market has now digressed from import to export.” He said Nigeria had found herself in a position that importing was not paying any longer. On the prospects of local airlines on the international routes, Odika said Medview Airlines must be commended for its operations in the London Gatwick so far. “I have personally flown the airline and I am rather

Congo (DRC) owned airline. The DRC today doesn’t have an airline, but the DRC then had an airline operating more than 30 jet airplanes. They all died because there is was support from their governments”. Gebremariam said that before the regional airline, Asky was established in West Africa; it was difficult to travel from one country to the nearest one by air, so, a traveller who wished to travel to Togo from Ivory Coast would have to go to Paris first, from there he would connect flight to Togo. Conclusion Despite the trend towards liberalisation, there remain considerable government restrictions on airline operations and ownership. Many bilaterals still follow the constrictive Bermuda model established over 50 years ago and most governments still apply restrictions on the ownership and control of airlines.

Ethiopian Airlines marks 70 years of operation

frica’s most profitable airline, Ethiopian Airlines is celebrating 70 years of dedicated and highly successful air transport services to, from and within the continent of Africa. In a statement, the carrier said with its strong mission of bringing Africa together and closer to the world, Ethiopian has expanded much needed air connectivity within Africa and with the rest of the world in the last 70 years. It said: “Leading the way in the past, present and the future; Ethiopian has been an aviation technology leader in Africa and has introduced many new aircraft and systems to the continent. The result of such a long journey of dedicated service has now culminated in connecting 51 cities in Africa with the major trading centres of the world in five continents and 41 cities around the world. “Every single day, Ethiopian operates 240 flights with an efficiently designed network of connectivity through our main hub in Addis Ababa with 76 aircraft in service.

Along with its Star Alliance partners, they cover the entire world”. The fast, profitable and sustainable growth the airline has registered in the last 10 years, has made them the largest, most profitable and fastest growing airline in Africa. They operate Africa’s largest cargo service, largest and most advanced Aviation Academy and best MRO services. Group Chief Executive Officer of the airline, Tewolde Gebremariam, said, “Seventy years is a long time, but Ethiopian is still young, strong, forward looking and ready to contribute its own share of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena in line with the African Union agenda 2063. “The billions of dollars we invested in our modern fleet, aviation infrastructure, human resource development and operating systems are a testimony that shows Ethiopian is positioned in a solid foundation to scale up the

growth in its Vision 2025. With the next generation advanced fleet of B-787 Dreamliners, Airbus A-350 and the B-737 MAX, we are very excited to continue to lead the 21st century aviation development in the continent of Africa. “Ethiopian airlines employees, the management and the board of Directors have been demonstrating unique levels of dedication and commitment to their airline and this is the main success factor in the last 70 years. We take this opportunity to recognise and thank all of our employees, present and past, for their extraordinary hard work and success. “We have been competing and winning every business of our customers in the hyper competitive global airline industry in the last 70 years, and we are prepared to do so now more than ever in the past. We thank our more than seven million annual passengers for their strong vote of confidence in choosing to fly with us and for their loyalty and support”.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Interview Govt should amend Poly Acts –NBTE Executive Secretary

Education

Campus Minister pledges adequate funding of varsities

33 35

Rectors’recipes for poly education SEARCHLIGHT

Rectors of polytechnics and colleges of technology in the country, under the aegis of Council of Heads of Polytechnics and Colleges of Technology in Nigeria (COHEADS) last week rose from their three-day 133rd Regular Meeting, held at YABATECH, Lagos, charting a new direction for polytechnic education

Kayode Olanrewaju

he need for the polytechnic system to look beyond government’s subvention as means of funding, and to properly positioned as technologically-based institutions, has again drawn the attention of key players in the sector. It was at the 133rd Regular Meeting of the Council of Heads of Polytechnics and Colleges of Technology in Nigeria, otherwise referred to as COHEADS, the assembly of Rectors of the nation’s polytechnics, where they gathered for three days at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Lagos to chart a way forward for the ailing sector, led by the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Dr. Masa’udu Adamu Kazaure, this year’s parley offered a platform for key stakeholders in the sub-sector to brainstorm on the myriad of challenges bedeviling the sector with a view to proffering solutions that will rejig it. With the theme: “Seek Ways of Improving Technological Education in Nigeria,” the meeting appraised the major decision of the 132nd edition of the meeting, and the election of a new COHEADS Chairman, who will pilot the affairs of the Council for the next four years. Setting the tone of the meeting, Kazaure, who was represented by the Director of Planning at NBTE, Mr. Ekpeyong Ekpenyong, challenged the administrators of the

kayode olanrewaju Editor, education

kayode olanrewaju@ newtelegraphonline.com

Cross section of participants

polytechnics to look more inward in funding their institutions as the Federal Government may in the next two years stop funding them. “If the polytechnics are right in carrying out their mandates, they will be able to generate adequate resources to fund the institutions, and they will not rely solely on the government subventions as it is being done today,” he said. He said: “Each of us has critical role to play in the development of technical education, which polytechnic is championing, and this is what the country requires to remain relevant in the global technological drive. “Though, funding is a challenge, we must look beyond funding in order to see how the country is fairing in technical education provision to its citizens.” Part of his worries, according to him, is the inability of the institutions to develop their innovations with a view to patenting and commercialising them for revenue generation. On the CONTISS 15, the NBTE chief, to the consternation of the rectors, said the funds for the payment were not captured in the 2016 budget, saying the polytechnics should take a common ground on its implementation since some polytechnics that were implementing it before have stopped it. Piqued by the rising cases of unsavoury activities in some polytechnics, especially as it concerned cases of sexual harassment of female students, by lecturers at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State, Kazaure, advised the rectors should be on top of their games as the accounting officers.

As lecturers, they should be ICT-compliant

Towards this end, he directed them to raise investigation panel on the allegations of “sex for marks” in the institution leveled against some lecturers, and other similar institutions with a view to nipping such untoward attitude in the bud, as well as to bring the culprits to book. “What happened at the polytechnics should be taken holistically and as rectors, you should all rise up to the occasion in order to fish out the culprits for appropriate sanctions,” the NBTE boss said. In view of the critical role of Information Communication Technology (ICT) in the development of technical education and the need for the system to be IT compliant, he challenged lecturers in the sector to key into IT. Failure to do so, according to him, the country and the polytechnic sector will pay dearly for it. “As lecturers, they should be ICT-compliant so as to key into the e-learning system currently in vogue,” Kazaure argued, insisting that if not, the institutions would not be able to meet the rest of the world in quest for technological development. He added: “There is the urgent need to ensure paperless system in your operations and this will begin with the rectors. It is when you encourage ICT-based training of the lecturers and other workers that you can phase out paper operations from the system, and it is then that the nation could be proud of having polytechnics that are technology driven.” In its two-page communiqué signed by the new COHEADS Chairman, and Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, Mr.

Mas’ud Elelu, the Council appealed that the Federal Government should extend the Hi-Impact Funding Programme to all polytechnics to ensure even development of vocational and technical education in the country. The Council also sought the support of the government for the implementation of CONTISS 15 migration and other academic allowances previously agreed in the polytechnics with adequate funding required for the implementation. This, according to the Council, has become imperative “to maintain peaceful industrial harmony on polytechnic campuses in the country.” Similarly, the COHEADS in the communiqué lauded state governments that have implemented the CONTISS 15 salary structure in their polytechnics and colleges of technology with full cash backing. On the threat by the polytechnic workers unions to embark of strike, the Council pleaded: “We appeal to all staff unions in the nation’s polytechnics to exercise patience and allow peace to reign on our campuses, as efforts at resolving discordant issues are receiving attention, in the interest of polytechnic education in Nigeria.” On the Federal Government’s current fight against corruption, the COHEADS threw their weight behind the government’s anti-corruption campaign, and urged all anti-corruption agencies to ensure diligence, while addressing issues relating to corruption allegations. The Council, in same vein condemned in strong terms the alleged CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

education

Lecturer offers alternative to imported grass for livestock

Igbeaku Orji UMUAHIA

don and Coordinator of the Centre for LifeEnzyme and Fine Chemical Research at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Prof. Nnamdi Anigbogu has offered a cost effective alternative to imported grass for livestock. This is coming on the heels of the Federal Government’s plan to import grass for grazing from Brazil to feed the nation’s livestock. While leading a group of scientists at the agriculture university, Anigbolu pointed out that following their research findings, livestock could be fed from local sources such as waste materials. Addressing journalists in Umuahia on the discovery, the Coordinator said that wastes could be fermented with a type of microbes extracted from snails and converted to livestock feeds. With this technology, which has proved very effective, he insisted that the country has no business wasting its scarce foreign exchange on importation of grass from Brazil, even as the

don called on the Federal Government to jettison such idea. “We are strongly against the importation of grass because we do not see the need why the government should import grass to feed our animals when animal feeds could be produced in the country at far lesser cost,” Anigbolu stressed. The don, who explained that the research carried out under the waste management, utilization, and pollution control project, has proved that waste materials that constitute environmental problems across the nation could be converted to livestock feeds. According to the Professor of Animal Science, all efforts to commercialise the Centre’s research breakthrough have not been successful as neither the government nor private sector have expressed interest to invest in the project. Towards this end, he added that about N40 million is required by the Centre to commercialise the project with a view to saving the country the huge cost of importing grass from Brazil to feed livestock with the attendant foreign exchange. Once commercialised, he said the project could sustainably feed the nation’s 13 mil-

Adamu

lion herds of cattle and other livestock, noting that while the South-East geo-political zone lacks enough land for development of pasture, saw dust and municipal wastes could be converted to livestock feeds and for snails. The don, who recalled that the breakthrough was made as far back as 2001, but wondered that the Federal Government has not shown interest in the project, which had long been adopted in other countries following the presentation of the research findings at the International Scientific Conferences in Philadelphia, U.S.A; Italy and Greece respectively.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Committee of Provosts seeks restructuring of colleges

rovosts of Colleges of Education, under their umbrella union, the Committee of Provosts (COP) of Colleges of Education in Nigeria, are seeking the restructuring of the colleges in the country without further delay. This is as they said this had become imperative to make them more relevant in the 21st Century in the quest for efficient teacher education delivery. They, however, recommended the return of the scrapped Teachers’ Training College to the education system to serve as feeder to colleges of education, while NCE programme should be structured to a full two-year programme and another two years leading to the award of B.Ed Degree in education . According the Committee, colleges of education in the country should be positioned or upgraded to become Degree awarding institutions, awarding Bachelor of Education (B.Ed). To achieve some of the positions canvassed by the Committee, it said that the law establishing the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) should be reviewed to become the National Commission for Teacher Education (NCTE). This, COP noted would enhance capacity of the Com-

It’s no longer business as usual, SUBEB warns contractors

L-R: Members of National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Zone 4, Ward 13, and proprietor/ proprietress of Delinks School; Broad Page School; Samvep School; Cyri School; Emmycord School; Fairdeal School; Komflex School; Camp Samuel School; Edubest School; Delampstands School; Beloveth School; Bukunmi School; Higher Altitude School at Komflex Sch during the zone’s meeting.

Musa Pam Jos

AAUA inks MoU with Auburn varsity on students’exchange Kayode Olanrewaju

s part of efforts at deepening its academic programmes and research profile, the management of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AUA), Ondo State, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Auburn University, Alabama, United States of America. According to the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, the MoU essentially is to facilitate the exchange of students and faculties, as well as enhance research collaboration among other benefits, between the two universities. While endorsing the document at a ceremony at the Auburn University, Alabama, U.S.A on behalf of the Adekunle Ajasin University, the vice-chancellor in his remarks, expressed delight over the development, which he described as worthwhile, and reiterated the university’s commitment to maximize the partnership in the interest of the development

mission to oversee and supervise the proposed new status of colleges of education as degree awarding institutions. To achieve this laudable objective of leapfrogging the colleges to greater heights, the provosts identified the need for them to lobby policy makers to influence the desired changed in the sector for the challenges of the 21st Century. The call was made in a communiqué issued after the 76th Regular Meeting of the Committee of Provosts of Colleges of Education in Nigeria, which took place at the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), Abuja. In the communiqué, signed by the Chairman, Communiqué Drafting Committee, Prof. Emmanuel Ojeme and made available to journalists, the Committee noted that there is an urgent need to restructure and review the content and admission policy of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), as the current admission policy did not favour colleges of education. The body, which harped on the need for the government at all levels to create more incentive for students opting for teaching profession, said that given the advancement in education in the country, the colleges should be more innovative and professional in practice for their survival and relevance in the society.

of the institution. The signing of the MoU, according to the university, is coming barely four months after the management of Adekunle Ajasin University signed a similar document with Alabama State University, also in the United States, to further expand its global partnership as well as broaden the opportunities for its members of staff and students. Ajibefun said: “For us at Adekunle Ajasin University, it is a worthwhile collaboration that we cherish and treasure, and which we are going to maximize in the best interest of our university.” Responding, the President of Auburn University, Dr. Jay Gogue, expressed satisfaction over the collaboration with the Nigerian university, and expressed confidence that the partnership would yield good fruits. Gogue said: “We are pleased to partner with Adekunle Ajasin University, and we are confident that the partnership will bring about development of the institutions.” Also on the delegation of the university to the American university is the

Head of Service of Ondo State, Mr. Toyin Akinkuotu, a lawyer. In another development, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic, Prof. Oluyemisi Adebowale, has attributed the success recorded in the just concluded accreditation exercise of the university’s academic programmes by the National Universities Commission (NUC) to the proactive leadership of the institution and support of stakeholders. In the results of the NUC accreditation exercise carried out late last year and which was released this year, of the 27 academic programmes presented by the university, 26 got full accreditation and only one had interim accreditation. Adebowale, who expressed delight over what she described as the “university’s unprecedented record,” said: “We thank God for the leadership and preparedness of the management team, and cooperation of all stakeholders at all levels. We were able to put our manpower both academic and non-academic personnel together effectively to record the unprecedented success.”

ontractors handling construction and renovation of schools under the Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), who defaulted in the execution of projects will soon be out of business and sanctioned. The Chairman of the state SUBEB, Prof. Mathew Sule, while reading the riot act, disclosed that there would be no longer safe haven for contractors who defaulted in the construction and renovation of primary schools under its purview in the state. Sule, who spoke during a chat with journalist about the activities of the Board, pointed out that it had put strategies in place to ensure that the deadline, terms and specifications of project execution are strictly adhered to before payments are made to contractors. This is as he said that officials of the board have been delegated to supervise and monitor the various projects with a view to ensuring that they were properly executed in line with the board’s specifications. According to him, since his assumption of office, the board has put in place strategies that will ensure that contracts conditions are adhered to before payments are made to the contractors.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

There is clamour among polytechnic workers’ unions for the creation of a National Polytechnic Commission. Does that suggest that NBTE is not representing the polytechnic sector well? The unions may have their own reason why they are calling for the creation of a National Polytechnic Commission, and may have their own position on whether or not NBTE is representing them well. Polytechnic workers’ unions as any other trade union will always want the best for its members. However, the National Board for Technical Education as an agency of the Federal Ministry of Education was established in 1977 to among other functions; coordinate all aspects of technical and vocational education falling outside the universities. By this mandate, NBTE takes charge of over 515 technical and vocational institutions comprising 99 federal, state and private polytechnics; 34 Colleges of Agriculture, 27 Colleges of Health Sciences, 23 specialised institutions, 118 Innovation Enterprise Institutions, 73 Vocational Enterprise Institutions and 145 Technical Colleges. In all of these, the National Board for Technical Education has remained focused in carrying out its responsibilities as stipulated by law and has continued to see to the promotion of technical and vocational education in the country. However, with the rapid increase in the number of TVET institutions and other tertiary institutions such as the universities and colleges of education in the country today, what Nigeria needs is the National Qualification Authority, similar to the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA) or Malaysian Qualification Authority (MQA). Why has it taken the government that long to remove the disparity between university and polytechnic products and what is NBTE doing in this direction? Well, I will say it is a gradual process. There are a lot of other things that have to be put in place and to be harmonized. These include the statutes that created the two programmes and the processes in obtaining them. The issue has remained topical in the Board’s agenda and necessary consultations on the issue with relevant stakeholders have been ongoing.

Interview | education

Govt should amend Poly Acts –NBTE Executive Secretary Dr. Masa’udu Adamu Kazaure is the Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). The alumnus of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, in the interview with KAYODE OLANREWAJU speaks about the call for polytechnic commission, disparity between university and polytechnic graduates, among other sundry issues. Board for Technical Education by Act No. 9 of January 1977, to coordinate all aspects of technical and vocational education falling outside the universities. This was further complemented by Act No.16 of 1985 (Education/National Minimum Standard and Establishment of Institutions) and Act No. 8 of 1993. With these laws, the functions of NBTE were expanded to include accreditation of academic programmes in all technical and vocational education and training institutions falling outside the universities. By this mandate, the Board has fashioned out a time tested system of accreditation of programmes offered in the polytechnics and other similar technical institutions. The Board also establishes standards and ensures that polytechnics meet the minimum academic standards in the programmes they offer in terms of curriculum, facilities and the human resources. To ensure quality of products, the Board ensures that students are not admitted above the institution’s carrying-capacity and besides it ensures that the institutions adhere strictly to the 70:30 ratio in favour of science and technology programmes.

The Federal Government since 2006 has been talking about the upgrading of Kaduna Polytechnic and YABATECH as City Universities, why similar hope was raised two years ago. Is there any step being taken by the Board in ensuring the upgrading? As on the issue raised above, you should not forget that it was a presidential pronouncement. However, for it to take effect several other issues have to be addressed including the law establishing the institutions in the first place. The Board is also keen about the take-off of these institutions as City University, and not only this, the Board wants amendment of the Polytechnic Acts to award B.Tech degrees; and amendment of the NBTE Act to accredit B.Tech degrees in the nation’s polytechnics. Some stakeholders believe that polytechnic sector has not done the expected to lift the nation’s technological development, in terms of quality products, what is NBTE as the supervising agency doing to ensure quality in the sector? Acute shortage of technical manpower identified in the Third National Development Plan, necessitated the establishment of the National

Kazaure

There are also the challenges of lack of access and the dearth of academic staff...

There is call that the Federal Government’s fight against corruption should be extended to the polytechnic system in view of the financial recklessness against some rectors. What is your stake on this? The fight against corruption as enunciated by this present administration is everybody’s affair and shouldn’t be restricted to certain sectors alone, likewise the polytechnics. Since the inception of President Buhari’s administration, the NBTE has been interfacing with the nation’s anti-corruption agencies, the Independent and Corrupt Practices and other Related Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and has organised series of interactive sessions between the anti-corruption agencies and polytechnics officials to raise the level of awareness in the sector on the war against corruption. So, I can assure you that the sector has already key into the anti-corruption crusade. Based on this, the Minister recently raised ad-hoc committees to probe the activities of some polytechnic managers, but some stakeholders are of the

opinion that it should have been visitation panel and not ad-hoc committee. Do you subscribe to this? Yes, a Visitation Panel when sent to an institution usually has a broader mandate of investigating every activity of that institution including the statutes and rules governing the administration of that institution. But, that is not the case here, under the ad-hoc committee. As you alluded, the government was responding to petitions or allegations made against governing councils and managements of some institutions including some polytechnics, so it was only appropriate to set up adhoc committees to investigate these allegations as raised in the petitions. This situation did not call for setting up of visitation panels. What are the challenges confronting the development of polytechnic education in the country and how could this be tackled? Polytechnics, like other government institutions and agencies are confronted with various challenges which include inadequate infrastructure and facilities aggravated by serious obsolescence of existing ones. There are also the challenges of lack of access and the dearth of academic staff with cognate practical experience relevant for the training of students to meet the contemporary needs of industry and employers; low enrolment in technology institutions particularly in science and technology based programmes; lack of effective linkages with industries to facilitate staff exposure to use of modern methods, processes and technology in industries; and inadequate budgetary provisions for the implementation of turn-around initiatives for revitalization of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) among others. Several initiatives have been put in place to tackle the challenges confronting the development of polytechnic education in Nigeria. Access to TVET is being expanded through initiatives to provide for Public Private Partnership (PPP), expansion of facilities and equipment and provision of more trained teachers to the system. To further address the problem of access to TVET, more private polytechnics are being established and Innovation Enterprise Institutions and Vocational Enterprise Institutions are being supported to provide a veritable alternative route to higher education. More so, there is the need for the development of new qualifications systems (NVQF) for connecting skills development and lifelong learning. The National Vocational Qualification Framework (NVQF) enhances practical skills-based training through standardisation of the qualifications obtainable either through formal or non-formal training. It requires establishing flexible and open learning and qualification systems able to reduce the barriers between education, training and work, and to increase access and progression in initial and continuing Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

education | public discourse Disparity between HND and B.Sc graduates

Ndubuisi: Each institution plays different roles

What is left for them to do is to run courses in Law and Medicine. But, that shouldn’t be it. There is, therefore, the need to go back to the drawing board to redefine the roles of polytechnics and make them stick to the rules. But, that can only be possible when the government is ready to fund them adequately because most of them run other programmes to raise their internally generated revenue (IGR) base. There should not have been any need for conflict in

the first instance, if our policies on education are strictly followed to the letter. The fact that polytechnics have abandoned their statutory roles or mandate is already affecting the system because many expatriates have flooded our economy playing the roles their graduates should ordinarily play.

Salahudeen: It’s mere injustice Lukman Salahudeen is the Regional President of the West African Polytechnic Students’ Union (WAPSU).

he dichotomy is injustice, partiality and object of ridicule to the education system of the country. The fact is that the removal of this disparity is long overdue since all requirements for admission into the polytechnics and the universities are now the same in terms of the entry requirements of Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) result and the number of required credits. Candidates into both institutions write the Unified Tertiary Matricula-

tion Examination (UTME) as against the UME and MPCE that was the practice before. Therefore, the embargo on career progression for HND holders in public service is uncalled for. Our demands as a union include; implementation of the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on abolition of the dichotomy between HND and BSc headed by the former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Dr. MacJonh Nwaobiala; reintroduction and passage of the bill seeking abolition of the disparity between HND and BSc before the Senate, which has passed second reading in

the seventh Assembly; autonomy for polytechnics to award Bachelor of Technology just as other polytechnics in West African countries such as Ghana, and that the government and its agencies should retrace their steps and review all discriminating policies against polytechnics just as the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund’s) intervention projects and disbursement, and CBN education intervention fund, among others. We are optimistic that this will aid proper development and advancement of the nation technologically as well speed up the productivity of Nigeria and China investment agreement.

Bello-Osagie: Disparity unnecessary

Kofoworola Bello-Osagie is a graduate of polytechnic and a journalist.

want to believe the disparity is nonsense because I do ask myself, for instance, if you train somebody in Mass Communication, what have you trained the person to do? You expect the person to be able to function as a journalist whether in print or electronic. The exact curriculum used by polytechnics to produce a graduate of Mass Communication is also used in the university. And when graduates from the two institutions get

to the newsroom they are asked to do the same thing. Yet, you talk about one certificate being higher than the other. It does not make any sense to me. That is, in the field of my profession, as a graduate of polytechnic, I went through the rudiments of news writing, which today, I find difficult to see in the university and polytechnic students who often come into the newsroom for internship. In my 11 years of practice as a journalist, I have come across graduates from both institutions and I am yet to see the difference in their qualities. People talk about specific technical roles polytechnics should play. Do we talk about middle-level manpower? If that is what is being talked about, then we need

Over 45,000 jostle for Cowbell ‘King, Queen’ of Maths

Prof. Friday Ndubuisi is the Vice-Chancellor, Christopher University, Mowe, Ogun State. he fact remains that the institutions are meant to play different roles, but these roles are not adequately defined. The problem is that most polytechnics have abandoned their statutory roles which should be to build the nation’s technical middle-level manpower. Unfortunately, everywhere you go today, you see polytechnics in the country running more of management courses than technological programmes they supposed to champion.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

to go back to the drawing board for a proper understanding of the system. In Accounting, for instance, both graduates are qualified to pass any external examination. So, where is the disparity? It is really a wrong policy and must be reviewed. We need to understand that most of the experts in the multinational companies are graduates of technical schools who come into our systems and boss it over our university graduates because they have the required expertise. The development has forced poor students to be pushed to the polytechnics, while the better ones are admitted to the universities. In fact, the colleges of education are more disadvantaged.

ajor stakeholders in education sector have lauded the conduct of the 2016 Cowbellpedia qualifying examination, which took place nationwide last month for what they described as “smooth and hitch-free exercise.” Specifically, the candidates and their parents commended Promasidor Nigeria Limited, manufacturer of Cowbell brand of milk for the National Secondary School Cowbellpedia Mathematics Quiz competition, instituted by the firm to promote the teaching and learning of Mathematics. Over 45,000 candidates jostled for the Cowbell ‘King or Queen’ of Mathematics of the year across the federation in the first stage examination of this year’s Cowbellpedia Secondary Schools Mathematics TV Quiz. The students drawn from junior and senior secondary school in both public and private schools wrote the qualifying examination from where no fewer than 54 candidates in each category will qualify for the second stage examination, which is the

Cowbellpedia TV Quiz. “Over 45,000 junior and senior secondary school students, who converged on their respective centres to write the examination, were excited and eager on arrival to complete their accreditation exercise,” the organisers said. The examination was jointly supervised by the officials of the states’ Ministry of Education, who arrived at the designated centres early that day to monitor and ensure proper conduct of the examination, conducted by the National Examination Council (NECO). The competition was instituted 20 years ago, by Promasidor Nigeria Limited, manufacturer of Cowbell brand of milk, to reward excellence and encourage the learning and teaching of Mathematics, as well as demystifies the subject as a difficult core school subject. The Category Manager- Dairy for Promasidor, Mr. Abiodun Ayodeji, while appraising the exercise, said there was massive turnout of students as well as their teachers and parents who accompanied them to the centres.

The Director, Vivian Fowler Memorial College For Girls, Mrs. Olufunke Fowler-Amba; a student of the college, Miss Kigibola Charles-Ambaiowei; the guest speaker, Mr. Segun Dada; Miss Olamide Akinyemi, a student and the Marketing Manager of DIFC during the Annual Continuing Education and Counseling Fair organized by the college.

SAMSUNG partners ministry to digitalise 104 unity schools Mojeed Alabi

owards supporting the efforts of the Federal Government to revamp the education sector through the use of technology, one of the global technology giants, Samsung Electronics West Africa, has partnered the Ministry of Education and another Information Communication Technology firm- Skool Media to digitalise classrooms on the platform of mobile learning in the 104 Unity Schools in the country. The initiative, according to the company, will avail the students the opportunity to ‘have their classrooms literally put in their palms.” Meanwhile, the Samsung tablet devices will be paired with relevant and applicable educational content customised with Skool Media content. Under the project, they will also kit the classrooms in the schools with Samsung Electronic Boards, wireless printers and wireless connectivity. The aim of this project is to turn the classrooms in Nigerian school into “Smart classrooms” where learning is practical, fun, progressive and impactful. On the partnership, the Director, Business to Business, Samsung

Electronics West Africa, Charles Ojei said: “This solution provider tablets for students with relevant and practical educational content, will put the classroom in the palms of the students. This makes the classroom interactive, collaborative and conducive for students and teachers. The solution also provides security of the device and helps the schools filter contents consumed by students. It makes the device purely for academic purpose.” Ojei further described that the initiative as a laudable milestone in the Nigerian education system, which will give both teachers control over the classroom and students the atmosphere that makes learning easier and more memorable. Representing the Minister of Education, Mr. Adamu Adamu, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, expressed excitement over the impact this project would have on education. “We are indeed grateful to Samsung for tapping into the goal of the ministry towards training quality teachers. We encourage all beneficiaries of the project to take full ownership of the project and allow the improved quality of teaching to reflect in the students’ performance,” she said.

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

campus

Deputy ViceChancellor (Academics), Prof. Charles Esimone (4th from the left); Ahaneku; Da Buba Gyang; the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, AVM Larry Koinyan and other members of the council at the ceremony.

Minister pledges adequate funding of varsities Franklin Onwubiko UNIZIK

ome 30,275 graduating students of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State, who received their scrolls for the award of First Degrees, Post Graduate Diploma (PGD), Masters and PhD, have been urged to be good ambassadors of the institution, and portray the name of the university in good light. This is as the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Anthony Anwuka pledged the determination of the Federal Government to vote more money into the sector in order to adequately fund university system. Giving the breakdown of the graduating students, the ViceChancellor, Prof. Joseph Ahaneku, said no fewer than 27,581 graduates were awarded First

Degrees; 621 graduated with Post Graduate Diplomas; while 1,593 graduates obtained Masters Degrees; and 480 students with PhDs. Addressing the graduating students and the guests, the President and Visitor to the university, President Muhammadu Buhari, who was represented by Anwuka, expressed optimism that the graduating students would enhance and add value to national development by virtue of their training. The high points of the ceremony were the commissioning of some completed projects and laying of the foundation stone of some new projects by the minister, who assured the audience that the government would ensure proper funding of the university system. In his inaugural speech, the third newly installed Chancellor of the university, Da. Jacob Gyang Buba, Gbong Gwom Jos

and Chairman Plateau State Council of Chiefs, expressed gratitude to President Buhari for finding him worthy to be appointed as the Chancellor of the institution. Da Buba, who noted that despite the obligations and challenges of his position, he called on various stakeholders to leverage on their goodwill and to partner the management towards advancing the noble goals and objectives of the founding father of the university, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, after whom the university is named. He congratulated the graduating students for the successful completion of their academic programmes, and wished them success in their future endeavour. The university’s Honorary Degrees were conferred on some eminent Nigerians including the former Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji Ibrahim Commasie and Da Buba, who were bestowed

NUC accreditation team to EKSU submits report

Bandele

he preliminary report of the National Universities Commission (NUC) Accreditation Team that visited the Faculty of Law, Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, has been handed over to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Oye Bandele. The leader of the NUC team, Prof. Ehie Oshio said the accreditation teams assessed the manpower, infrastructure, lecturer-student ratio and the standard of the Law library, among others. Oshio lauded the Faculty for having a competent leadership under Prof. Akomolede and with half of the members of teaching staff possessing PhD.

He said the team was encouraged by the number of members of academic staff, who are on the verge of completing their doctorate degrees, adding that the lecturer-student ratio was impressive and conforms to acceptable standard. Based on its findings, the NUC accreditation team expressed satisfaction over the annual budget of the Faculty, but advised the university management to expand the capacity of the Moot Court, the clinic as well as to upgrade the ICT facilities. Responding, the vice-chancellor described the report of the NUC accreditation team as fair, objective and acceptable, pledging the readiness of his administration to improve on all areas of weakness. Other members of the NUC accreditation team are Prof. Y.Y Bambale from the Ahmadu Bello University, (ABU) Zaria; Prof. Justus Sokemefun and Mrs. Achunugu Ramatu.

Polys tasked to lay emphasis on skill training

A Ogbuagu (3rd from left); Salau (4th left) and other officers of the college and corps during the visit

Emeka Onwudinjo UNIZIK

he management of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze and the Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) are exploring the possibilities of partnership to boost the security and bring peace to the campus. The corps, led by the State Commandant, Abdullahi Salau, was at the college on a familiarisation visit to the Provost, Prof. Josephat Ogbuagu, to explore avenues with which to partner with the college to-

College to partner NSCDC on security on campus wards boosting security at the institution. While exchanging views with the provost, Salau noted that one of the responsibilities of NSCDC is to provide security to Nigerians, saying it would not relent on such mandate. Responding, Ogbuagu commended the Corps for its commitment to reduce crime rate in the state as well as maintaining peace and orderliness

in places where communal, ethno-cultural and political violence were rearing their heads. He also expressed readiness of the college to partner with the Corps to provide adequate security to the college community, even as he lauded the group for the visit and promised to work harmoniously with it for the peaceful growth and development of the state.

call has gone to polytechnics in the country to brace up to confront the economic challenges facing the country headlong by laying emphasis on skill acquisition and entrepreneurial training. In fact, this will positioned the students to be self-reliant upon graduation as job creators, rather than seekers of the non-existent white-collar jobs. The call was made by the Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Dr. M.A. Kazaure, while delivering the 16th convocation lecture of the Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, with the theme: “Responding to Youth Employment Crisis in Nigeria: Polytechnics and Skilling of Young People - Challenges and Advances.” The NBTE boss, who is the former Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Kazaure, noted that polytechnics needed to adopt techniques and strategies

Akande

that are geared towards training on skill development acquisition, and focusing on relevant attitude that would help in turning out graduates with the right frame of mind and caliber that would be self-reliant to sustain the economy. Kazaure, a former university don, however, pointed out that there was a growing need for the exploitation of national resources to the nation’s advantage through the acquisition and development of technology. “The desire of the government to set up the polytechnics was to attain the goals of academic excellence and manpower requirements of the national economy,” the Executive Secretary noted.

education

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

UNILAG don’s research to tackle pollution Mojeed Alabi

lecturer at the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Olawole Ogirima Olanipekun, has won the Prof. Ayo Francis Ogunye Trust Foundation (PAFOTFUL) grant to conduct research that will proffer lasting solution to the menace of oil spillage and pollution in Nigeria’s Niger-Delta region. Olanipekun, who won the Foundation’s first research grant of N1 million, was last week presented with the cheque by the institution’s Vice-Chancellor and member of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, Prof. Rahman Bello. On the foundation, the vicechancellor, however, recalled that the founder (Ogunye), who pioneered Chemical Engineering course at the university, instituted the Foundation with his accumulated arrears after winning the legal battle against the wrongful termination of his appointment by the university. Ogunye, who said nothing excites him more than academic engagements, noted that he dedicated the money to initiate a

process for sound and qualitative research outputs that will not only put the nation’s universities on the front burner, but also provide solutions to our societal challenges. Meanwhile, the researcher, who hinted that his task is to seek remediation and restoration of the polluted environment from crude oil, said what prompted the research initiative, is the wrong approach in the environmental clean-up currently being adopted in the country. Olanipekun said: “You know, a lot of researchers have been considering crude oil production as if it is a single contaminant. But, when there is pollution, there are multiple hydrocarbons in the environment which many are treating as if they are just a single hydrocarbon. We have polyaromatic hydrocarbon, aliphatic hydrocarbon and others. And these different hydrocarbons have different degrees of degradability. While the aliphatic can easily be degraded, the polyaromatic is more difficult to degrade. “So, we want to consider the middle end by looking at aliphatics of the range of 16 to 20, and same with polyaromatic. We are not going to take crude oil as a whole, but we are going to

take a model subscript, by taking hydrocarbon from crude oil and mix them together and take consortium from Niger Delta and mix them together and see how they are going to degrade.” The cheque presentation ceremony, which attracted members of the academia, including deans of various faculties, was also graced the Foundation’s Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and Nigeria’s first graduate of Chemical Engineering, Mr. Anthony Shobo. The Chairman of the panel of judges for the competition, Prof. Oluwole Familoni, explained that about 30 entries were received, out of which three were shortlisted and sent to external assessors. “Two of the three came from a university in the Delta region, while Olanipekun came from UNILAG. Meanwhile, the assessment and judgment were based on the research quality and not the institution the competitors came from,” he noted. He also explained that the motive of the Foundation was to launch a professorial chair, but while it is still sourcing for the required N300 million, it holds the public the responsibility to engage in meaningful activities that can impact the society.

L-R: Ogunye, Bello, Olanipekun and Shobo during the presentation of the dummy cheque to the winner.

A voice for polytechnic education C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 1

cases of sexual harassment at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi and other polytechnics, urging appropriate authorities to investigate such allegations with a view to identifying the culprits and bringing them to book as deterrents. Other elected officers for the Council are the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Idah, Kogi State, Dr. Matthew Akpata (Vice-Chairman), and Rector, Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi, Mr. Dauda Gyemang (Treasurer). While welcoming her colleagues and other participants to the three-day talk-shop, which had two plenary sessions, the host rector, Dr. Margret Kudirat Ladipo of YABATECH, said the brainstorming session could not have come at any other auspicious time than this when the polytechnics are taking the front burner in the promotion of technical education, as a major leap towards the reduction of the legion of unemployed youths in the country. For the polytechnic to fulfill their mandates, she said: “My

fellow rectors, let us brace up to the challenges of making a meaningful impact on the nation’s drive towards technological growth and rapid industrialization. “We can achieve this by encouraging scholarship among members of staff and students and establishing academic fellowship with relevant institutions and research centres across the globe. Similarly, the students should be encouraged to aspire for academic excellence by adequately rewarding outstanding performance in the system. The students can also be more creative and innovative through the sponsorship of their technical, vocational and entrepreneurial initiatives by corporate bodies.” “As polytechnic, we are confronting the challenges of the 21 Century,” Ladipo said, insisting that the institutions should be well positioned to provide competency-based technical, vocational and entrepreneurial education for the production of graduates relevant to the needs of the economy and the technological development of the nation.

However, in their position paper presented to the Council by the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), the students sought the immediate removal of the dichotomy between HND and B.Sc certificates from the entry point. According to the association, such dichotomy could best be addressed at the entry level through critical review of the entry requirements into the polytechnic sector. They, however, bemoaned the discrepancy in the merging of qualifying examinations into the institutions under the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). The association, while saying though it was aimed at ending the disparity, the merger has fostered further discrepancy as the prerequisite for entry into university with cut off marks between 200 and above for special course, while that of polytechnic is either 180 or 150 marks, as the case may be, in order to attract students and boost enrolment into the polytechnic sector.

EDUPEACE

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

for Peace and Strategic Studies, Unilorin

Three stories L ast week, I had a reason to share three stories shared with me some time ago with a professional audience. The response was very good and the lessons even struck me again refreshingly. Given that stories are compelling for teaching and learning, the stories are shared here for the purpose of general education and inner peace:

The first story An eagle was sitting on a tree doing nothing. A small rabbit saw the eagle and asked him. “Can I also sit like you and do nothing?” The eagle replied, “Sure, why not?” So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the eagle and rested. All of a sudden, a fox appeared, jumped on the rabbit and ate it.” The LESSON is that to be sitting doing nothing, you must be sitting, high up. Students who wish to have a good future don’t waste their time and idle away at their prime. Those who wish to reap bounteous harvest must work on their farm during the raining season. The only play where success comes before work is the dictionary. Nevertheless, there is a counter-lesson. Even when you sit high up, doing nothing, you will soon fall. Though the argument of the story dwells more on the rabbit, a leader who sits high up doing nothing, listens to all tales and watches while his community burns will soon have a date with history. Like Humpty Dumpty, he falls off the wall. Hard work pays; hard work doesn’t kill. The second story A turkey was chatting with a bull. “I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree,” sighed the turkey, “but I haven’t got the energy.” “Well, why don’t you nibble on some of my droppings?” replied the bull. “They are packed with nutrients”. The turkey pecked at a lump of dung, and found that it actually gave him enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree. The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch. Finally, after the fourth night, the turkey was proudly perching at the top of the tree.

If you cheat to gain university admission, cheating wouldn’t see you through

Then, he was spotted as a big bird by a farmer, who shot him out of the tree and out of life. The lesson is that bullshit might get you to the top but it won’t keep you there. If you cheat to gain university admission, cheating wouldn’t see you through. If you maneuver your way into a position and you are still cocky, then, you will have to bear the heat of your hot seat. The third story A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold; the bird froze and fell to the ground into a large field. While he was there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on him. As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung, he began to realise how warm he was. The dung was actually thawing him out! He lay there under the dung all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy. A passing cat heard the bird sing and came to investigate. Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him up. LESSON one: Not everyone who shits on you is your enemy. LESSON two: Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend. And LESSON three: when you are in deep shit, it is best to keep your mouth shut.

Re: Seven success secrets

tudents must read to pass. There is no magic about it. – Feyi Akeeb Kareem, Ogwashi-Ukwu Civil Society, Delta State Everyman wants success to become a better person. Man must realize that success goes with a lot of sacrifice. May Allah continue to bless you for the thoughtful and inspiring articles. – Aina Akindele Oyebanji, Ketu, Lagos State.

BUSINESS |Money Line

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Private capital holds key to Africa’s resurgence –Kaberuka COUNSEL Countries can make use of their demographic advantage Stories by Tony Chukwunyem

espite current pessimism over its prospects, Africa can overcome its present economic challenges through an intelligent use of private capital, the immediate past President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Donald Kaberuka, has said. In an article posted on CNBC Africa, the former boss of the AFDB stated that although the

slump in commodity prices has impacted growth in countries such as Nigeria, which are heavily dependent on natural resource revenues, such nations have a demographic advantage that can be utilised through an effective use of private capital. Kaberuka stated, “Record numbers of young people will be entering the labour market in the next decade. This technologically engaged young workforce could become drivers not just of African but also of global growth. The challenge is how we ensure we don’t waste this huge opportunity. Private capital has a crucial role to play.” Besides, he said, “In 2005, under my leadership, the AfDB took the decision to encourage private investment in the continent. As investors began to re-

alise that risks – largely related to the cost of doing business – were outweighed by returns, we saw private sector lending grow rapidly from $500 million to $3 billion a year. Intelligent use of private capital, such as private equity asset classes, can drive Africa’s next leap forward. Thoughtful long-term investment is needed to meet the continent’s energy and infrastructure needs. But it can also enable African companies to grow to seize the opportunities a fast-growing population will create, in sectors from education and healthcare to household utilities.” Kaberuka, who served as AfDB President from 2005 to 2015, argued that the slump in commodity prices and its attendant impact on the continent had resulted in analysts under-

StanChart eyes growth opportunities in Africa

rowing African businesses looking to sell their products and services beyond the continent present a growth opportunity for Standard Chartered, the bank’s chairman has said. The group has operations in 16 African nations, including Kenya and Nigeria, and offers services via correspondent banks in 22 more markets in Africa, where sliding commodities prices have put the brakes on previously strong growth. Rival Barclays has responded by reducing its exposure to Africa, but Standard Chartered takes an alternative view.

“We see Africa as an opportunity to invest rather than exit or divest,” its chairman John Peace told Reuters in Kenya, adding that the Internet and other technology is linking more African companies to global trade. “You can run a business, not just a large corporation but a medium-size business, here in Kenya and be connected to the world,” he said: “Banks, therefore, have a duty to be able to support that connectivity and that is what we are trying to do”. The World Bank cut its 2016 growth forecast for sub-Saharan Africa this week to 3.3per cent, from a previous estimate

of 4.4 per cent, citing the drop in commodities prices. Commodity exporter South Africa and oil producer Nigeria have been hit hard. But Kenya, an oil importer now enjoying cheaper crude prices, has kept annual growth around 6 per cent. Peace said that Standard Chartered’s wealth-management products were finding customers in nations such as Kenya. “We certainly, as part of our new strategy globally, emphasise the opportunity we have in retail, private banking and wealth management, and I think that is true in Kenya and in Africa,” Peace said.

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

N19,142,526.05m N18,579,219.49m 12.8 12 10.77 US$41.65 US$27,450,405,612

Mar, 2015 Mar, 2015 Mar, 2016 23/03/2016 Mar 2015 18/4/2016 14/4/2016

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 ↔

estimating Africa’s potential. He said, “As someone who led the African Development Bank for a decade until 2015 and witnessed first-hand the continent’s economic transformation, I believe Africa is much more resilient than this current knee-jerk pessimism suggests. Instead, I believe that if the right policies are put in place and well-targeted private investment continues, the con-

tinent’s progress will actually accelerate”. He pointed out that the focus on commodities had downplayed the importance of other sectors such as Information Technology and services, adding that recent statistical reviews of the economies of countries such as Nigeria and Ghana have shown the size and growth of these sectors have been consistently under-estimated.

More countries embrace diaspora bonds

n increasing number of developing countries are turning to their compatriots abroad to raise cash by marketing “diaspora bonds”, a funding strategy that India and Israel pioneered, but has sometimes proved tricky to imitate. About 250 million people, about 3 per cent of the global population, live outside their native countries, according to World Bank data from 2013. They are an important source of funding for their homelands: last year they sent home about $440 billion — three times more than global development aid. Cash raised by governments directly by marketing securities to their overseas citizens represents just a tiny fraction of that, but looks set to rise in volume, judging by a number of recent announcements. Egypt has announced debt certificates denominated in dollars and euros to ease hard currency shortages. Kosovo, which estimates a third of people of Kosovan descent live abroad, proposed issuing bonds for expatriates last month. Sri Lanka discussed such bonds last year, and Nigeria has tried to revive plans for a diaspora issue, after naming Goldman Sachs and Stanbic as advisers on a proposal for a $100 million diaspora bond sale in 2014. But not all such efforts suc-

ceed. Many countries overestimate the generosity of their natives abroad. One high-profile example was Greece, which proved unable to raise a hoped-for $3billion from the million-strong Greek community in the US at the height of its debt crisis in 2011. Ethiopia’s 2009 bond to fund a hydro-electric dam failed chiefly because it could not convince investors it would repay the debt. Some also objected to the project on environmental grounds. In 2009 and 2010, Nepal raised a fraction of its target when it offered yields below 10per cent over five years on rupiah bonds — well below domestic rates at the time. “Many governments need to really look at themselves in the mirror, as to what has been their historic relationship with their diaspora, and use that reality in their calculation when they offer investments,” said Liesl Riddle, a George Washington University Professor who has studied diaspora financing. Investors with a personal link to a country are often happier than other outsiders to take risks in the local currency, says Dilip Ratha, manager of the World Bank’s Migration and Remittances Unit. They could also be more willing to stick around in a crisis than the big funds that dominated emergingmarket debt, he added.

Forex brokerage firm opens UK division

nternational forex broker, ForexTime Limited (FXTM), has announced the opening of its fully operational division in the UK. Located in the City of London, the UK division will offer retail and institutional clients access to its personalised products and services, superior trading terms and innovative technology, according to a statement issued by the firm. Commenting on the development, CEO of ForexTime Limited, Olga Rybalkina, said, “Having delivered strong results and stable growth since the founding of the company, the opening of our UK office is a natural step for FXTM. The UK office will provide a strategic position from which we will continue offering our clients in the UK and Europe secure and high quality products and services. This de-

velopment underlines our commitment to the expansion of our global network, which has seen FXTM recognised internationally as a trusted and innovative broker. We now look forward to continuing our development in the UK and Europe, by capitalising on the benefits that come with having a base in a global financial hub like London”. According to the statement, Demetrios Zamboglou, who has been appointed as the General Manager of the UK office, will oversee the UK division. Speaking about the UK division, Jameel Ahmad, VP of Corporate Development and Chief Market Analyst at FXTM, stated: “The forex industry thrives on innovation, which is why London, as one of the most vibrant financial centres in the world, is an excellent base for FXTM.”

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS | Financial Market News FMDQ Daily Quotations List

18-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 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 576.93 605.31 719.99 266.02 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 1075.92 80.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

6,407.46

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

6,475.66

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

0.33 1.02 1.27 1.37 2.11 3.20 3.51 3.82 5.78 7.90 9.76 12.61 13.09 13.59 14.26 18.25 19.91

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

Bid Price

Offer Price

7.59 10.96 10.90 10.99 11.31 11.66 11.94 12.22 11.96 12.55 12.36 12.55 12.58 12.61 12.65 12.90 13.01

7.14 10.80 10.77 10.87 11.23 11.55 11.82 12.12 11.90 12.49 12.31 12.50 12.53 12.55 12.60 12.86 12.96

101.70 103.91 98.74 97.95 98.86 111.27 86.16 109.86 118.03 108.10 100.71 115.31 99.43 73.59 82.66 94.71 95.67

101.85 104.06 98.89 98.10 99.01 111.57 86.46 110.16 118.33 108.40 101.01 115.61 99.73 73.89 82.96 95.01 95.97

6362.457269

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

03-Apr-12

17.25

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Modelled Price

1.20

03-Apr-17

0.53

2.94

11.99

102.65

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

0.20 0.20 1.00 0.72 1.70 1.52 1.53 1.49 1.50 1.68 2.10 3.59 2.07 4.61 4.70 2.74 2.76 3.97 3.55 3.58 4.03 6.46 3.67

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

10.34 9.36 11.66 15.41 14.38 12.11 12.12 14.92 14.67 12.17 13.32 13.96 12.29 13.41 15.86 15.27 12.52 13.33 15.62 12.97 14.55 13.81 15.06

100.63 101.12 98.47 98.86 99.38 102.48 102.50 99.42 99.10 104.77 103.76 101.45 104.28 100.25 97.15 98.34 105.38 105.36 102.14 109.40 107.83 112.63 105.00

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

0.45 0.52 0.64 1.00 1.21 1.45 0.90 1.23 1.39 1.39 2.45 1.50 1.58 1.70 2.30 4.57 3.07 5.59 5.70 6.07 4.24 8.45 8.45 9.58

1.00 1.34 1.00 6.96 6.41 2.36 1.88 3.15 6.35 1.00 1.17 5.37 6.11 3.28 4.47 1.00 3.55 2.51 1.00 1.00 2.77 1.00 1.00 1.00

9.52 10.34 10.41 17.62 17.26 13.42 12.20 14.01 17.36 12.01 12.59 16.48 17.25 14.45 15.84 13.12 15.19 14.51 13.01 13.04 14.93 13.49 13.49 13.39

101.46 101.92 103.33 99.01 99.11 99.44 105.53 102.12 100.65 104.82 102.88 99.06 100.92 102.18 98.51 107.13 100.66 98.98 113.49 114.08 103.14 113.82 98.77 107.66

10-Oct-20

2.59

3.37

14.83

99.83

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

446.12 453.49

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Corporate Bonds A+/Agusto; A-/GCR A-/Agusto Nil Nil Nil A/GCR BBB-/GCR Nil A-/DataPro†; CCC/GCR AAA/DataPro†; B/GCR A+/Agusto; A/GCR Bbb+/Agusto†; BBB+/GCR† BBB-/DataPro†; BB/GCR Nil A-/GCR A+/Agusto; A-/GCR Bbb/Agusto; A-/GCR BBB/GCR A/GCR BBB/GCR Bbb/Agusto; A-/GCR A/GCR A/GCR AAA/GCR

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

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

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

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

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

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

538.53

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

550.65

Sukuk BBB-/Agusto

*OSUN

10-Oct-13

14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020

14.75

9.40

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

9.40

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

9.39

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

IFC

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

11-Feb-18

1.82

1.00

10.49

99.50

Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P

*AfDB

11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021

10-Jul-14

11.25

12.95

01-Feb-21

3.04

1.00

11.06

100.46

Bid Price

Offer Price

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

24.95 24.95 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

7.51

7.25

96.99

97.99

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

12-Jul-13

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

5.57

5.15

99.07

99.93

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

12-Jul-13

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

7.79

7.59

92.29

93.30

100.50

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

1,441.74

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

16.74

1.03

99.25

B+/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

9.55

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

20.24

19.04

78.42

80.10

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

8.21

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

9.67

91.25

B/Fitch; B/S&P

DIAMOND BANK PLC

8.75 May 21, 2019

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

16.14

15.40

82.55

84.12

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

13.63 13.83 14.47

82.25 83.00 76.00

B-/S&P

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

14-Aug-14

8.75

250.00

14-Aug-21

12.23

11.76

84.88

86.63

DTM

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Discount Rate (%)

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

3,523.41 3,080.73 Description

Issuer

Issue Date

Yield @ Issue (%)

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Commercial Papers Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP II 4-MAY-16

04-Nov-15

13.25

7.23

04-May-16

6.03

8.41

8.38

Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP III 29-JUL-16

04-Nov-15

13.75

2.77

29-Jul-16

102

6.18

13.39

12.90

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

10.00

**TREASURY BILLS^ DTM 10 17 31 38 45 52 59 66 73

FIXINGS Maturity 28-Apr-16 5-May-16 19-May-16 26-May-16 2-Jun-16 9-Jun-16 16-Jun-16 23-Jun-16 30-Jun-16

Bid Discount (%) 3.45 3.10 3.30 3.33 5.81 6.17 6.15 6.13 6.21

Offer Discount (%) 3.20 2.85 3.05 3.08 5.56 5.92 5.90 5.88 5.96

Bid Yield (%) 3.45 3.10 3.30 3.34 5.85 6.22 6.21 6.20 6.29

Money Market

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 4.7217 8.6561 10.5552 12.7925

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

4.00

O/N

4.46

Tenor Call 1M 3M

REPO

Rate (%) 4.33 5.17 6.00

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

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

199.05 199.21 199.46 200.23 201.54 202.93 207.10

199.15 199.73 200.00 200.93 202.45 204.17 209.09

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

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE NEW TELEGRAPH

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

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

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

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

1.27 1.37 2.11 3.20 3.51 3.82 5.78 7.90 9.76 12.61 13.09 13.59 14.26 18.25 19.91

10.90 10.99 11.31 11.66 11.94 12.22 11.96 12.55 12.36 12.55 12.58 12.61 12.65 12.90 13.01

10.77 10.87 11.23 11.55 11.82 12.12 11.90 12.49 12.31 12.50 12.53 12.55 12.60 12.86 12.96

98.74 97.95 98.86 111.27 86.16 109.86 118.03 108.10 100.71 115.31 99.43 73.59 82.66 94.71 95.67

98.89 98.10 99.01 111.57 86.46 110.16 118.33 108.40 101.01 115.61 99.73 73.89 82.96 95.01 95.97

BUSINESS |Financial Market News 6,407.46

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

6362.457269

6,475.66

Stock market opens on negative tract Rating/Agency

Description

Issuer

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

03-Apr-12

17.25

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

Risk Premium (%)

1.20

03-Apr-17

0.53

2.94

Valuation Yield (%)

Modelled Price

11.99

102.65

Agency Bonds

Nil

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1.20

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

PROFIT TAKING

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

Market closes downward with loss of N32 billion

Stories by Chris Ugwu

rading activities on the floor of the Nigerian stock market yesterday opened the week in the red, sustaining bearish trend that began last Friday. TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE The Exchange reported it TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION experienced Corporate Bonds a disruption to its A+/Agusto; A-/GCR NAHCO techtrading services following A-/Agusto FSDH Nil nical hitches. However, trading ***LCRM Nil recommenced at 2.15 p.m and Nil A/GCR UBA was extended to 4.00p.m. (from BBB-/GCR *C & I LEASING Nil *DANApm) in the usual time of 2:30 #{r}

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

*TOWER# *TOWER#

order to give investors the op14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016 portunity to complete their 15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016 transactions for the day. 10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017 13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017 The NSE stated that it in14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017 14.00 30-SEP-2018 tends toDELTA open for trading at the 14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018 14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018 normal trading hours today. 14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 However, the downswing ac15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019 15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 cording to market watchers was 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 due 14.75 to profit takings by market 13.50 LAGOS 27-NOV-2020 speculators following apprecia15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 ble gains some06-JAN-2021 blue chip compa15.00 NASARAWA BAUCHI 9-DEC-2021 nies15.50 achieved recently . 16.50 OYO 16-FEB-2022 16.50 BENUE 27-FEB-2022 The twin market perfor17.50 PLATEAU 30-MAR-2022 mance measures, 17.00 KOGI II 31-MAR-2022 the NSE All 17.00 CROSS RIVER 27-MAY-2022 Share Index (ASI) and market capitalisation dropped by 0.38 per cent on the back of blue NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 chip13.00 companies. 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 0.00/16.00 08-DEC-2016 At the LCRM close of business, 12 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 19-APR-2017 stocks appreciated, while 20 oth0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017 13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 ers constituted the losers’ table. 18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017 MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 Consequently , the All-Share MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

UBA *LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS# *DANA#{r}

Index dropped by 93.25 basis 30-Jun-11 points or 0.38 per cent14.00 from 30-Jun-09 15.50 24,719.27 index points last Fri19-Apr-10 10.00 30-Jun-10 day to close31-Dec-10 at 24,626.02, 13.75 while 14.00 14.00 the market30-Sep-11 capitalisation of 04-Oct-11 14.00 09-Dec-11 14.50bilequities depreciated by N32 12-Dec-13 14.00 lion or 0.38 per cent from N8.502 14-Feb-12 15.50 02-Oct-12 15.50 trillion to N8.470 trillion.14.50 22-Nov-12 12-Dec-12 Further analysis of the14.75 day’s 27-Nov-13 13.50 31-Dec-13 15.00 Plc trading showed that Tranex 31-Dec-13 14.50 topped the day’s table 06-Jan-14 gainers’15.00 09-Dec-14 15.50 with 9.09 per cent each to close 17-Feb-15 16.50 16.50 at N1.08 per27-Feb-15 share, while Dia30-Mar-15 17.50 mond Bank01-Apr-15 Plc followed17.00 with 27-May-15 8.46 per cent to close at 17.00 N1.41 per share. Caverton Nigeria Plc added 4.85 per cent to close at 29-Sep-11 13.00 N1.73 per share. 25-Oct-13 14.25 09-Dec-11 0.00/16.00 On the flip side, Conoil Plc 20-Apr-12 0.00/16.50 led the losers’ with a 06-Jul-12 chart 0.00/16.50 30-Sep-10 13.00 drop of 9.3730-Nov-12 per cent to close at 18.00 09-Apr-11 while Oando 16.00 N16.45 per share, 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

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

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

DN Meyer reports N53m FY2015 PAT

*FCMB NAHCO *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC *FCMB UBA FIDELITY *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC STANBIC IBTC STANBIC IBTC *NMRC

N Meyer Nigeria Plc, a paint manufacturing company quoted on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has swung to profTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE it position, a profit after TOTAL MARKETposting CAPITALISATION tax of N52.860 million for the full Sukuk year ended December*OSUN 31, 2015. BBB-/Agusto DNOUTSTANDING group VALUE recorded the TOTAL TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION profit during the period under review from Supranational Bonda loss position of AAA/S&P IFC N36.575 million in 2014. Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P *AfDB Similarly , the group TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE also postTOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION ed a profit before tax of N60.459 million during the financial Rating/Agency Issuer year from also a loss position FGN Eurobonds of N37.362 million reported in BB-/Fitch; B+/S&P the same period of 2014. BB-/Fitch; FGN BB-/S&P However, the FY 2015 group BB-/Fitch; revenue was down by 11.19 per BB-/S&P TOTALto OUTSTANDING VALUE cent N1.19 billion in contrast TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION to N1.34 billion reported the Corporate Eurobonds previous year. B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC I DN Meyer Nigeria Plc B+/S&P ACCESS BANK PLC B/Fitch; B/S&P FIDELITY BANK PLC had posted a loss after tax of B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC N76.603 million for the second B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P ZENITH BANK PLC B/Fitch; B/S&P ended June DIAMOND BANK PLC quarter 30, 2015. B-/Fitch; B/S&P FIRST BANK PLC Key extracts of theACCESS accounts B-/Fitch; B/S&P BANK PLC II B-/Fitch; B/S&P FIRST BANK LTD statement for the second Q2 B-/S&P ECOBANK NIG. LTD showed drop in growths in key TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION performance indices, damping strong performance outlook of Rating/Agency Issuer one of the leading paint comCommercial panies inPapers the country Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

DN Meyer recorded a loss motor vehicles in the country. after tax of tax of N76.603 milHe said: “We are aware of lion during the period under the rebasing of the Nigeria’s review from a loss position Gross Domestic product now of N61.585 million in 2014, stated at about $510bn as of accounting for a percentage 2010 which make Nigeria the change of 24.38 per cent. biggest economy in Africa and Similarly , the company post- one of the 10-Oct-13 11 fastest growing 14.75 14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020 ed a loss before tax of N75.121 economies in the world at its million during the period un- current rate of about seven per der review from also a loss cent for nearly a decade now. 10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018 11-Feb-13 10.20 position of N59.848 million “We intend to strategically 11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021 10-Jul-14 11.25 reported in the same period leverage on the opportunities of 2014, representing 25.51 per- embedded in this phenomenal centage change. growth to boost our revenue Description Issue Date Coupon (%) Gross earnings also dropped and profit growth”. Omotosho said in line with to N557.076 million during the 6.75 JAN 28, 2021 07-Oct-11 6.75 second quarter of the year, the plan, the company was im5.13 JUL 12, 2018 12-Jul-13 5.13 against N633.462 million a year plementing a robust channel 6.38 JUL 12, 2023 ago, depicting a drop of 12 per strategy for12-Jul-13 its products6.38 so as cent. to connect effectively with its The Chairman of DN Meyer existing customers. Plc, Mr Remi Omotosho, had “The board is poised to 7.50 MAY 19, 2016 19-May-11 7.50 urged manufacturers in the maximise the benefits accru7.25 JUL 25, 2017 25-Jul-12 7.25 6.88 MAY 2018 au6.88 opcountry to leverage on09,the able within09-May-13 these exciting NOV 08, 2018 08-Nov-13 6.00 tomotive policy of6.00 the portunities, and with proper 6.25 APR Federal 22, 2019 22-Apr-14 6.25 8.75 May 21, 2019 21-May-14 of strategies 8.75 Government to boost growth implementation 8.25 AUG 07, 2020 07-Aug-13 8.25 and revenue.9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021 already in place, hope24-Jun-14 we are 9.25 8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021 23-Jul-14 8.00 Omotosho, who8.75 spoke at the ful of an improved perforAUG 14, 2021 14-Aug-14 8.75 company’s Annual General mance this year,” he said. He lamented the state of inMeeting (AGM) in Lagos, said the future prospects of DN Mey- frastructure in the country, sayDescription Issue Date Yield @ Issue (%) er included keying into the re- ing that it showed no significant cent plans for the assembling of improvement in the past year. GUINNESS CP II 4-MAY-16

04-Nov-15

13.25

GUINNESS CP III 29-JUL-16

04-Nov-15

13.75

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1.23

Plc shed 8.33 per cent to close 1.30 30-Jun-16 0.20Plc at N4.18 per share. CCNN 2.05 30-Jun-16 0.20 followed with19-Apr-17 4.98 per cent 57.00 1.00 to 16.45 30-Jun-17 0.72 close per share. 1.70 25.00 at N6.6831-Dec-17 23.44 30-Sep-18 1.52 On the activity chart, insur4.22 04-Oct-18 1.53 10.98 sub-sector 09-Dec-18 1.49 ance sector domi8.14 12-Dec-18 1.50 nated with 21.68 in volume 14-Feb-19 terms 1.68 12.55 02-Oct-19 2.10 46.880.00 million shares exchanged 22-Nov-19 3.59 21.65deals. The 12-Dec-19 in 67 sub-sector2.07 was 87.50 27-Nov-20 4.61 5.00 4.70 in enhanced by31-Dec-20 the activities 4.03 4.04 14.37 4.39 4.53 27.10 3.00 7.68

31-Dec-20 06-Jan-21 09-Dec-21 16-Feb-22 27-Feb-22 30-Mar-22 31-Mar-22 27-May-22

2.74 2.76 3.97 3.55 3.58 4.03 6.46 3.67

29-Sep-16 25-Oct-16

0.45 0.52

the shares of Equity Assurance 4.46 and AIICO 10.34 100.63 Plc. Plc Insurance 3.48 9.36 101.12 sub-sector98.47 boosted 1.00Banking 11.66 5.71 15.41 98.86 by on the shares 3.21 the activities 14.38 99.38 1.00 12.11 102.48 of GTB Plc. Access Bank Plc 1.00 12.12 102.50 3.82 14.9238.07 million 99.42 units trailed with 3.56 14.67 99.10 traded in 12.17 497 deals. 104.77 1.00 2.02 13.32 103.76 In all, investors exchanged 1.98 13.96 101.45 104.28 a1.00 total of 12.29 129.6 million shares 1.30 13.41 100.25 3.76 15.86 97.15 exchanged in 1,660 deals. 3.76 1.00 1.52 3.67 1.00 2.52 1.79 3.04

15.27 12.52 13.33 15.62 12.97 14.55 13.81 15.06

98.34 105.38 105.36 102.14 109.40 107.83 112.63 105.00

1.00 1.34

9.52 10.34

101.46 101.92

Lender’s Q12016 net earnings fall 4% 446.12 453.49 15.00 5.53 112.22 116.70 66.49 20.00 0.46 3.60 1.82 0.50 35.00 1.50 0.27 4.50 23.19 2.05 9.76 26.00 30.50 30.00 10.00 0.10 15.44 7.90

08-Dec-16 enith Bank Plc 0.64 first 19-Apr-17 1.00 quarter 06-Jul-17 2016 profit 1.21 after 30-Sep-17 1.45 tax fell 30-Nov-17 3.99 per cent to 0.90 09-Apr-18 1.23 N26.573 billion from N27.680 09-Sep-18 1.39 billion recorded a year earlier. 09-Sep-18 1.39 30-Sep-18 2.45 In a filing18-Oct-18 from the Nige1.50 17-Feb-19 1.58 rian Stock Exchange (NSE), 01-Apr-19 1.70 the group’s pre-tax profit2.30also 06-Nov-20 14-Nov-20 dropped by 3.03 per cent 4.57 from 04-Dec-20 3.07 5.59 33.128 billion 20-Nov-21 during the previ30-Dec-21 5.70 ous year to N32.121 dur13-May-22 billion 6.07 26-Oct-22 4.24 ing the period30-Sep-24 under review. 8.45 30-Sep-24 equally 8.45fell Gross earnings 29-Jul-30 9.58 by538.53 12.25 per cent from N113.322 billion in 2015 to N99.435 billion 550.65 during the first quarter of 2016. Analysts at10-Oct-20 FBN Quest while 9.40 2.59 reacting to the results, said 9.40 9.39 that Q1 results typically given incorporate lower loan loss 12.00 11-Feb-18(than the 1.82 Q4 provision charges 12.95 01-Feb-21 3.04 quarter in particular) – “We sus24.95 24.95 pect this Q1 2016 is no exception, we would Outstanding Value expect the market to Maturity Date Bid Yield (%) ($’mm) adopt a wait-and-see approach. Having said that, with consen500.00 28-Jan-21 7.51 sus full year PBT estimate not 500.00 12-Jul-18 5.57 too far off at N123 billion, we be500.00 12-Jul-23 7.79 lieve the market will be slightly 1,500.00 reassured by these figures. As 1,441.74 the guidance implies, 2016 is not likely to be a growth year in any 373.41 19-May-16 16.74 meaningful manner. Guidance 350.00 25-Jul-17 9.55 02-May-18 20.24 for300.00 loan growth is 5-10 per cent”. 400.00 08-Nov-18 8.21 Besides, the experts noted: 500.00 22-Apr-19 9.67 16.14 “As200.00 of March,21-May-19 the bank actually 300.00 07-Aug-20 13.63 saw a -3 per cent 400.00 24-Jun-21q/q decline. 13.83 450.00 23-Jul-21 14.47 However, what we believe will 250.00 14-Aug-21 12.23 set banks apart in terms of per3,523.41 3,080.73 formance is asset quality, given the strain Outstanding Value on the economy. We DTM Maturity Date (₦’bn) also expect the inflationary environment to benefit larger 7.23

04-May-16

2.77

29-Jul-16

102

1.00 10.41 1 banks 103.33 well-run tier better as 6.96 17.62 99.01 the cycle should give 6.41 tightening 17.26 99.11 2.36 13.42 99.44 support to their net interest 1.88 12.20 105.53 3.15 14.01 expect this 102.12 margins. We to com6.35 17.36 100.65 pensate for additional104.82 strain in 1.00 12.01 1.17 their loan12.59 book (asset102.88 quality), 5.37 16.48 99.06 6.11contrast 17.25to what we 100.92 in expect 3.28 14.45 102.18 the to experience”. 4.47 tier 2 banks 15.84 98.51 1.00 13.12 107.13 They noted that as at the end 3.55 15.19 100.66 2.51last week, 14.51 Zenith shares 98.98 of had 1.00 13.01 113.49 shed -18.513.04 per cent since the 1.00 114.08 2.77 14.93 103.14 start of the year vs the ASI’s 1.00 13.49 113.82 1.00 13.49 98.77 -13.7 per cent. 1.00 13.39 107.66 Zenith Bank recorded 6.24 per cent growth in profit after tax for the financial year ended December 31, 2015. 99.83 3.37 14.83 Its fourth quarter net earnings rose to N105.663 billion as against N99.455 billion a year ear1.00 representing 10.49 99.50cent. lier, 6.24 per 1.00 11.06 100.46 The lender’s profit before tax firmed up by 4.85 per cent to N125.616 billion as against Offer Yield (%) Bid Price Offer Price N119.796 billion in 2014. Prices & Yields Turnover also rose to 7.25 96.99 97.99 N432.535 billion compared 5.15 99.07 with N403.343 billion99.93posted 7.59 92.29 93.30 the previous year, representing a growth of 7.24 per cent. Reviewing the 2015 financial year, Chairman, Zenith Bank, 1.03 99.25 100.50 Mr. Jim Ovia, noted that owing 9.55 97.31 97.31 19.04a number 78.42 of domestic 80.10 to and 8.21 95.00 95.00 external factors, 2015 was a 9.67 91.25 91.25 15.40 82.55 very challenging year84.12 for oper13.63 82.25 82.25 ators in the . 13.83 83.00banking industry 83.00 14.47 76.00 76.00 He said, in the face of a very 11.76 84.88 86.63 challenging operating environment, Zenith Bank has mainRisk tained its culture of outstandValuation Yield Discount Rate (%) Premium (%) ing (%) performance and industry leadership. #

6.03

8.41

8.38

6.18

13.39

12.90

10.00

18-Apr-16

**TREASURY BILLS^ FIXINGS Money MarketThe Information does 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 financial or Foreign Exchange professional, (Spot & Forwards) DTM We attempt to ensure the Maturity Bid Discount Offer Discount (%) Tenor Rate (%) 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. We do not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, completeness, performance NIBOR 10 28-Apr-16 3.45 3.20 3.45 OBB 4.00 Tenor Bid ($/N) Offer ($/N) or fitness for a particular purpose of any of 5-May-16 the Information, neither do we accept action taken on the 3.10 basis of the Information. 17 3.10 liability for the results of any 2.85 Tenor Rate (%)

31 38 45 FGN Bonds 52 59 66 73 Rating/Agency 87 94 101 108 115 122 136 143 157 171 178 185 192 NA 199 213 227 241 262 276 290 304 318 332 339 353 TOTAL OUTSTANDING

19-May-16 26-May-16 2-Jun-16 9-Jun-16 16-Jun-16 23-Jun-16 30-Jun-16 Issuer 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 20-Oct-16 27-Oct-16 NA 3-Nov-16 17-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 23-Mar-17 6-Apr-17

VALUE

3.30 3.33 5.81 6.17 6.15 6.13 6.21 Description 6.21 6.98 13.05 16-AUG-2016 7.23 7.32 ^15.10 27-APR-2017 7.73 9.85 27-JUL-2017 7.77 9.35 31-AUG-2017 8.65 8.79 10.70 30-MAY-2018 8.52 ^16.00 29-JUN-20198.72 7.00 23-OCT-2019 8.81 ^15.54 13-FEB-20208.58 8.50 ^16.39 27-JAN-20228.63 ^14.20 14-MAR-2024 8.92 ^12.50 22-JAN-20268.57 8.85 15.00 28-NOV-2028 8.80 12.49 22-MAY-2029 9.07 8.50 20-NOV-2029 9.45 ^10.00 23-JUL-20309.35 9.32 ^12.1493 18-JUL-2034 9.35 12.40 18-MAR-20369.21 9.50

3.05 3.08 5.56 5.92 5.90 5.88 5.96Date Issue 5.96 6.73 16-Aug-13 6.98 7.07 27-Apr-12 7.48 27-Jul-07 7.52 31-Aug-07 8.40 8.54 30-May-08 8.27 29-Jun-12 8.47 23-Oct-09 8.56 8.33 13-Feb-15 8.25 27-Jan-12 8.38 14-Mar-14 8.67 8.32 22-Jan-16 8.60 28-Nov-08 8.55 8.82 22-May-09 9.20 20-Nov-09 9.10 23-Jul-10 9.07 18-Jul-14 9.10 18-Mar-16 8.96 9.25

3.30 3.34 5.85 6.22 6.21 6.20 6.29 (%) Coupon 6.30 7.11 13.05 7.37 7.48 15.10 7.92 9.85 7.98 9.35 8.94 9.10 10.70 8.84 16.00 9.09 7.00 9.21 8.97 15.54 8.90 16.39 9.05 14.20 9.41 9.05 12.50 9.40 15.00 9.39 9.74 12.49 10.22 8.50 10.14 10.00 10.14 12.1493 10.21 12.40 10.07 10.46

Bonds

*for the Amortising the average life is calculated and not the TTM TOTAL MARKETbonds, CAPITALISATION #

FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Modified Duration Buckets

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

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

<3 3<5 >5 Market

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

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

4.46

REPO

Rate (%) 16-Aug-16 3.9299 6.3295 27-Apr-17 6.6797 27-Jul-17 9.2263 31-Aug-17 9.5251 10.9555 30-May-18

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

Rate (%) 4.33 5.17 Bid6.00 Yield 6.83

(%)

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

0.33 7.59 7.14 NOTE: 1.02 10.96 10.80 :Benchmarks 1.27 10.90 10.77 * :Amortising Bond 1.37Bond 10.99 10.87 µ :Convertible AMCON: Asset of Nigeria 2.11 Management Corporation 11.31 11.23 FGN: Federal Government of Nigeria 3.20 11.66 11.55 FMBN: Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria 3.51 Finance Corporation 11.94 11.82 IFC: International LCRM: Local Contractors Receivables 3.82 12.22 Management 12.12 NAHCO: Nigerian Aviation Handling Company 5.78 11.96 11.90 O/N: Overnight 12.55Company 12.49 UPDC: UAC7.90 Property Development WAPCO:West 9.76Africa Portland Cement 12.36 Company12.31 12.61 12.55 12.50 13.09 12.58 12.53 13.59 12.61 12.55 14.26 12.65 12.60 18.25 12.90 12.86 19.91 13.01 12.96

6,407.46

199.05 199.21 199.46 200.23 201.54 202.93 207.10 Bid Price 215.68

199.15 199.73 200.00 Price 200.93 202.45 204.17 209.09Price Offer 221.14

101.70 103.91

101.85 104.06

115.31 99.43 73.59 82.66 94.71 95.67

115.61 99.73 73.89 82.96 95.01 95.97

Valuation Yield (%)

Modelled Price

NA :Not Applicable 98.74 98.89 ^ : Market Prices 97.95 98.10 # : Floating Rate Bond ***: Deferred coupon bonds 98.86 99.01 DTM: Days-To-Maturity 111.27 111.57 TTM: Term-To-Maturity 86.46 ‡ : Bond 86.16 rating under review †: Bond 109.86 rating expired 110.16 N/A :Not Available 118.03 118.33 {r} :Issuer in receivership 108.10 NGC: Nigeria-German Company108.40 UBA: United Bank for Africa 100.71 101.01

6362.457269

Outstanding Value (₦’bn) FMDQ FGN BOND INDEX

Description

Issuer

Issue Date

Agency Bonds Nil

4.7217 8.6561 10.5552 12.7925

6,475.66

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

Rating/Agency

O/N 1M 3M 6M

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

Porfolio Market Value (₦’bn)

1,002.76 1,492.74 1,507.96 4,003.46

Total Outstanding Volume (₦’bn)

03-Apr-12 Weighting by 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

Coupon (%)

17.25 Weighting by Mkt Value 25.05 37.29 37.67 100.00

14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.50 14.00 15.50 15.50

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

Maturity Date

03-Apr-17 % Exposure_ Mod_Duration 12.48 29.28 58.24 100.00

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)

0.53

Implied Yield

12.02 12.30 12.82 12.57

0.20 0.20 1.00 0.72 1.70 1.52 1.53 1.49 1.50 1.68 2.10

Risk Premium (%) 2.94 Implied Portfolio Price 137.0830 152.0351 115.3719 132.8823

4.46 3.48 1.00 5.71 3.21 1.00 1.00 3.82 3.56 1.00 2.02

11.99

INDEX

1,247.14 1,318.05 1,390.93 1,265.39

10.34 9.36 11.66 15.41 14.38 12.11 12.12 14.92 14.67 12.17 13.32

102.65 YTD Return (%) 12.5728 30.1689 38.1236 19.9210

100.63 101.12 98.47 98.86 99.38 102.48 102.50 99.42 99.10 104.77 103.76

News|south-west

Muritala Ayinla

agos Government yesterday said it generated N6bn in Land Use Charge revenues in 2015 just as it threatened to seal off property of defaulting residents. Although it said that the amount dropped from N7.14bn it generated in 2014, the government reiterated its determination to prosecute defaulters according to the law with a view to increasing the revenue. It however dismissed insinuations that it was the responsibility of tenants to pay the land use charge, saying every land

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Land Use Charge fetches Lagos N6bn owners and landlords were compelled by law to pay the charge. Briefing reporters at the State Secretariat, Alausa, Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Mustapha Akinkunmi said that the state would do everything within the ambit of the law to increase the revenue in order to meet up with the state’s increased overheads. According to him, the government had put in place a variety of payment options which included paying at the bank or the

nearest Land Use Charge offices to residents using cash or POS or payment online through credit or debit cards. The Akinkunmi however apologised for the delay in the distribution of the bills this year, attributing it to the need to clean up the data sets which were previously in operation. While noting that a more robust clearer data sets were now in place, he said despite the delay in the delivery of the bills, tax payers were still en-

titled to the usual 15 per cent discounted rate if payment was made within 15 days of delivery as others paying outside the 15 days grace not exceeding 30 calendar days would pay the actual due amount. He said: “It is the landlords that are expected to pay the Charge. They can have agreements with their tenants but from the government’s perspective, it is the landlord that the law recognises in paying the Charge. “Payment of Land Use L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mr. Tunde Ogunleye; Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Mustapha Akinkunmi and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Fola Adeyemi, at a press briefing on Land Use Charge in the state in Lagos…yesterday

Osun Speaker berates Senate over amendment of CCB Act Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

peaker Osun State of House of Assembly, Najeem Salaam yesterday berated the Upper Legislative arm of the National Assembly over the ongoing amendment of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) Acts, describing it as an exercise in futility. Also, the Speaker also carpeted the lawmakers on the 2015 Administration of Criminal Justice Act, saying although they had powers to amend any existing laws in accordance with the Constitution, the timing for the amendment was erroneous. He asked them to

back down as such venture would not lead to any desired end. He said: “The timing was wrong and the perception was negative and the insensitivity displayed by the sponsor of the bills has further aggravated the misconception of the people about the disposition of the National Assembly towards the anti-corruption fight of President Muhamnadu Buhari led government. “There is no crime in sponsoring bill, but the two bills slated for amendment were crucial to the trial of the Senate President Bukola Saraki, despite the fact that they would not have retrospective value to the case at the Code of Conduct Tribunal, but the timing of the amendment

would push Nigerians to hold the National Assembly in contempt and could have a trickle-down effect on the perception of the people at the state legislature.” “Our party promised to be fair and just to all Nigerians irrespective of party affiliation and the potent way to do that is to allow the course of justice to run without fair or favour but for some Senators to now come up with controversial bills that would be perceived to be designed for personal interest of an individual, suggests that some people are enjoying the raging confrontation between the National Assembly and the executive and any progressive minded APC lawmaker must not be found in that mode.

Charge is a requirement of law and property tax. Defaulters will have their properties sealed and are liable to be prosecuted in court. “I would like to appeal to all property owners to stop encouraging

such habit. The Land Use Charge is totally automated because we have records of all properties in the state. I would encourage all property owners to go through normal procedure of payments to the government.”

Group tasks politicians on accountability, transparency Charles Ogundiya

he National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Lagos Mainland chapter, has called on politicians in the country to ensure they fulfill their electoral promises to the electorate with a view to bringing dividend of democracy their constituents. The association made this declaration during an awareness programme at the weekend aimed at calling on the citizens of the country to ask the politicians questions. This, their spokesman, Olufemi Hassan said has become imperative for the electorate to get what they were being promised during voting process. Hassan said: “We decid-

ed to embark on a walk to sensitize the general public on the need to hold politicians accountable for their election promises. “What we are doing is asking our politicians that those promises made during their campaign are fulfilled. “It’s not about fight or to be violent, what we are saying is that we must try and question the politicians from the federal level, the state level and the local councils; the executive arm, the legislative arm, even the judiciary. “It is important for the populace to actually benefit from the new democracy in the country.We have done an election and we are not looking at parties, we want all to be fulfilled.”

Ambode directs refund of N50m to pilgrims Muritala Ayinla

agos State Government yesterday commenced a refund of N50million to participants in the 2015 Hajj operations. The refund, New Tele-

2.53

The average stay of football players of France in 2011-2012. Source: Football-observatory. com

33%

The percentage by which shares of American Express fell since February 2015. Source: Forbes.com

graph gathered, was sequel to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s directive that unspent funds be remitted to rightful owners. Addressing hundreds of beneficiaries at the premises of Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Ikeja, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr. AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef said such transparent refund was happening for the first time since the creation of the state. AbdulLateef said “Governor Akinwumi Ambode has directed that the unspent money during 2015 Hajj collected from the National Hajj Commission be refunded to its rightful owners.

He went on: “After deductions of bank charges, each pilgrim is entitled to sixteen thousand naira, two hundred and sixty naira only. It not a gift from the government, it is the remaining part of the money you paid for the 2015 Pilgrimage exercise. “We discovered that you were denied some meals and some entitlement while at Medinah. So we fought for it and a sum of Fifty Million Naira was released by the National Hajj Commission. “This event reminds us of the day of accountability and it is to re-affirm Governor Ambode’s transparency and the commitment of the government to residents of Lagos State.”

Amendment of CCT Act is self-serving, says Bishop Oke Rights group canvasses law to tackle herdsmen Sola Adeyemo

resident of The Sword of the Spirit Ministries, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, yesterday appealed to the Senate to drop the ongoing process of amending the Code of Conduct Tribunal Act, saying that it was self-serving and untimely. The clergy said this at the church located at Olaogun, Old Ife Road, Ibadan during a press conference where he said that amending the Act would amount to further tying down the

nation’s progress and effeminate the fight against corruption as being championed by President Muhammadu Buhari. President of the Senate Dr. Bukola Saraki is currently undergoing trial before the Code of Conduct Tribunal over alleged corruption and failure to declare his assets when he was governor of Kwara State between 2003 and 2011. Bishop Oke who said that the church was fervently praying against perpetuation of corrup-

tion in the country, nevertheless said that should the Senate fail to heed the advice, “it will not succeed because God is not delighted in unrighteousness. God will step in and He will overturn their plan because He will not allow anybody to keep Nigeria down”. The clergy who said that his call was not personal against Saraki as a Senator, was of the opinion that Nigerians were curious about the speedy rate at which the Senate was hearing the amend-

Babatope Okeowo Akure

he Campaign for Democracy (CD) yesterday asked the National Assembly to initiate laws that would address the persistent killings of innocent citizens in Nigeria by the Fulani herdsmen. The human rights group which described such act as barbaric and ungodly wondered why a nation trying to suppress Boko Haram insurgency

would be confronted with another set of criminals springing up to unleash terror on innocent people. The CD’s President, Ifeanyi Odili and Secretary, Muhammadu Abdulahi Jabi noted that the killings that took place in Abia and Benue states and some other parts of the country were worrisome, unwarranted and condemnable. Such act, they said if allowed to go on was capable of tearing the country apart. They said: “While some

sections of the country find it sinful and abominable to kill fellow human beings, some find pleasure in it.It is not part of us in Africa to kill ourselves unjustly, it is unAfrican to kill and no religion both Christian, Islam, even the traditionalists take delight in killing fellow persons. “We make bold to say that all these ungodly acts are direct consequences of irresponsible, non-chalant and carefree attitudes to the nation by every successive government in Nigeria.”

News|SOUTH-EAST

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Tribunal rejects Ohuabunwa’s prayer on service of notice Igbeaku Orji Umuahia

he Abia State election petitions tribunal sitting in Umuahia, yesterday threw out the objection raised by Hon. Mao Ohuabunwa that he was not duly served the motion on notice by the bailiff on the petition against his emergence as winner of the March 5 Abia North senatorial rerun election. The tribunal had last week reserved ruling on the motion for yesterday, following the petition of the Progressive Peoples Al-

liance (PPA) candidate and former Governor of Abia State, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu challenging the declaration of Mao Ohuabunwa of PDP as winner of the rerun poll. The bailiff had in an affidavit filed before the tribunal declared that Ohuabunwa was served at his country home in Arochukwu during the reception for his thanksgiving service at 10:20am. But Ohuabunwa in his affidavit and counter affidavit denied that he was neither served during the church service nor at his house where he received friends and visitors after the thanksgiving service.

The tribunal Chairman, Justice James Abundaga, however, noted that contradiction in the prayer of the 1st respondent has done damage to his prayer. “How did the 1st respondent know about the matter if he was not served; the only reasonable conclusion is that he was served.” “The affidavit and counter affidavit of Ohuabunwa are contradictory. He said he was not served at 10:20am because he was in a thanksgiving service and again in his counter affidavit that he was at Atani Arochukwu attending to friends are inconsistent averments. Which one do we believe?

“The averments in paragraph four of the respondents claim if juxtaposed against the affidavit of the bailiff in paragraph four will not stand. His claim that there is no stadium at Arochuckwu is an after thought, therefore his claim that he was not served does not hold.” The implication of the ruling, according to counsel to Kalu and PPA Mr. Perfect Okorie, was that Ohuabunwa lied about the service meaning that the proceeding can continue without any draw back because the tribunal had proved that he was properly served.

IPOB: We didn’t disown Kanu as leader Okegwo Kenechukwu Onitsha

he Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has disassociated itself from the position of a former President of Ohanaze Ndigbo, Dr. Dozie Ikedife, disclaiming Mr. Nmadi Kanu as the leader of the group. In a statement issued and signed by IPOB’s Director of Media and Publicity, Emma Powerful, copy of which was made

available to the media, IPOB, restated its loyalty to the leadership of Kanu, and described Ikedife’s statement as a mischief that should be discountenanced. “IPOB worldwide under the leadership of Mazi Nnamd Kanu, who is being tried for a trumped up treasonable charge at the Federal High Court, Abuja, condemned Ikedife over the statement credited to him that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not the leader of IPOB. We say it is not

true”. “Mazi Nnamdi Kanu appointed Dr. Dozie Ikedife and others as members of the elders forum for IPOB in advisory capacity until the elders forum and Dozie Ikedife started campaigning for APC in 2014, prompting Kanu to dissolve the forum and asked them to stop using Biafra’s name to campaign for any political party”. “IPOB also discovered that Ikedife was working against the restoration of Biafra as he has submitted

his first son’s credentials and CV to Buhari to give him a job in Abuja and this is a man who want us to believe in him” IPOB stated. IPOB also condemned what he described as the fabrications by one Mr. Stephen Onwu, parading himself in the media as an Igbo elderstate man and a member of IPOB. “We don’t know such person and warn that he should stop using IPOB to become relevant in the society or in the APC and Buhari government”.

Wife of Enugu State Governor, Mrs. Monica Ugwuanyi (right), in a handshake with the ViceChancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka, Prof. Benjamin Ozumba, during Mrs. Ugwuanyi’s flag-off of the Youth Empowerment Programme of the institution by Fidelity Bank... yesterday

Anambra professionals fault Cattle Grazing Bill

group, the League of Anambra Professionals (LAP) has described the National Grazing Reserves Bill which intends to create grazing reserves and stock routes all over the country as a step wrongly taken by all intents and purposes. The President of the group Mr. Willy Nzewi, who disclosed this in a chat with newsmen said: “It is quite commendable that this effort by our lawmakers was borne out of concern about the frequent clashes between farmers and Fulani herdsmen which had left many dead or displaced in different parts of the country. According to Nzewi, the bill deserved to be totally rejected since it would create more problems than it was being envisaged to solve. Nzewi explained that animal husbandry was a business and that the herdsmen were doing their private business just like fish farmers, like poultry farmers, andcassava or vegetables farmers. He, however, queried the rationalisation by govern-

ment to purchase land on behalf of cattle-breeders across the country for the purpose of assist the herdsmen ensure the grazing of their cattles, which he said was the aim of the bill. He said further: “Cattlebreeders ought to build ranches in their own lands or purchase land for themselves for that purpose as is the practice in other parts of the developing world. Moreso because just like the drivers of the huge trucks, the herdsmen may be employees of very wealthy and privileged individuals who just want to take more for money for themselves.” The leader of the group said that the creation of a National Grazing Reserve in a place like Anambra State and the South-East where the demand for land was already competitive, would amount the reservation of government land for cattle-breeders without similar privilege given to other people and would only create tension across the country.

Enugu deploys 86 diseasesurveillance officers to rural areas

he Enugu State Ministry of Health has deployed 86 disease-surveillance-focal personnel to rural areas to boost disease surveillance and rapid report to the ministry. The state’s Chief Disease Surveillance Officer, Dr. Okechukwu Ossai, who disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu yesterday said the officers were attached to health facilities in their localities of coverage. He said that they were to report to the surveillance officers in the 17 Local Government Areas’ headquarters. ``We must commend Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi on his administration’s policy on health which has shifted developmental activities to the rural areas. ``Enugu State can now boast of a robust and an effective disease-surveillance network because within minutes, report

will flow-in from the rural areas to my office for quick response and action. ``The development is good, especially, in rural border communities that has been of great concern to us in the ministry,’’ Ossai said. He urged nursing mothers and care-givers in rural settings to ensure they completed the free mandatory immunisation for their infants to mitigate the incidences of communicable diseases.

15%

The percentage by which shares of Wells Fargo fell since February 2015. Source: Forbes.com

17%

The percentage of the population of Cyprus under 15 years in 2012. Source: Un.org

Reality organisation donates cash, gifts to less privileged Group seeks harmony among ethnic Igbeaku Orji Umuahia

o fewer than five less privileged peoples homes in Abia State have benefited from gift items donated by the Reality Organisation. The occasion was the annual charity week of the organisation held at its Abia State office Umuahia. The beneficiaries in-

clude: the School of the Blind, Afara Umuahia, Victims of Crisis Homes, Abia State Association of Disabled Persons, Mentally Ill and Destitute Home, Amudo Itumbuzo, SOS Village Amuzukwu Ibeku, Umuahia and Abia State Destitute and Remand Home. In her remark during the event, the founder and President of Reality Organisation Worldwide,

Mrs. Eunice Uzor Kalu (Odiukonamba), called on the beneficiaries to use the gift items to improve the welfare of the inmates. She also urged the inmates to see ability in disability. She said that Reality Organisation was committed to the wellbeing of the people and assured that it would continue to reach out to those in need within the limit of its resources. Mrs. Kalu also urged

other organizations and individuals to use their Godgiven wealth and resources to help the less privileged in the society. In his speech, on behalf of the beneficiaries, Rev Oko SEK of the Mentally Destitute Home, Amudo Itumbuzo, expressed gratitude to Mrs Uzor Kalu for the kind gesture. He prayed that God should give her more grace and resources to do more.

nationalities

Temitope Ogunbanke

thnic leaders in the country have been urged to partner with government to enhance and encourage inter-ethnic harmony between diverse ethnic nationalities to foster national unity. Making the callyesterday, a group, the New Igbo Vision in the All Progressives Carty (APC), led by the Publicity Secretary of the party in

Lagos Mr. Joe Igbokwe, said building of alliances and networks between Ndigbo and other people in Nigeria would benefit all. According to him, the negative fallout of the 2015 elections introduced very deep chasms in the peaceful coexistence Ndigbo had shared with their host communities and endangered a critical mainstay of Igbo economy, which is commerce and industry.

42 News|south-South

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

No political killings in Rivers, Wike tells Reps committee Emmanuel Masha

lInvestigation into Ogoni killings begins

dismiss the reports that political killings were common in the state, stressing that they were fabricated by politicians. Wike, who stated this

Port Harcourt

ivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has told the House of Representatives Committee on the Army to

Edo APC chieftain slams Fayose over letter to Chinese govt Gabriel Efeduku Ughelli

former senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Dr. Francis Inegbeniki, yesterday slammed the Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, for his letter to the Chinese government not to grant the $2 billion loan request to Nigeria, saying it is an indication that Fayose needs urgent medical attention. Inegbeniki, who reacted in an online statement yesterday, said the $2 billion loan was to develop infrastructure, including railway and several other laudable projects. He assured Nigerians that the Chinese government would ignore Fayose, but that it was important for the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to call Fayose to order as his actions and unguided statements were

embarrassing the country. The APC chieftain, who said those that the gods wants to destroy, he first makes mad, said Fayose was already on his way to political destruction, because his actions in recent times could only mean that the governor needed urgent medical attention. “In Nigeria, we have one President, Muhammadu Buhari, therefore it is an insult for a nonperforming governor like Fayose to have written such a letter against the interest of Nigeria, added that only a rebel does that to his country.” Inegbeniki thanked the Chinese government for its supports for Nigeria and President Buhari, who he said God has given the mandate to restore and transform the country, which the likes of Fayose cannot stop.

Delta, China firm, sign infrastructural pact Dominic Adewole ASABA

he Delta State government yesterday entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the North China Construction Company to shore up the state’s infrastructural development drive. Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who expressed his administration’s willingness to partner with credible investors for the development of the state, said the Chinese company has the technical-knowhow and financial muscle for the infrastructural development of the state. The agreement, which was signed by the Secre-

tary to the State Government (SSG), Hon. Festus Agas, and his counterpart in Finance, Olorogun David Edevbie, on behalf of the state government and Mr. Wu Guo Qi, on behalf of the Chinese company, was witnessed by Okowa and some members of the State Executive Council. Speaking shortly after the deal was sealed at the Government House, Asaba, the governor said: “We welcome investors that show interest in the state and are ready to partner with us in infrastructural development, we will partner with companies with the requisite technical and financial capacity to deliver quality projects that will be beneficial to Deltans,” the governor said.

when he received committee members investigating the military invasion of Ogoni communities, noted that reports on political killing were sponsored to alter the outcome of the rerun election. He said that such reports stopped after the rerun election, and declared that Rivers State was largely peaceful with increasing internally generated revenue, IGR, that indicate that businesses are thriving and functional. He said : “Before the rerun elections, you heard of repeated reports of alleged political killings sponsored by misguided politicians. Now that they elections are over, you no longer see such reports. “Like every other state, we have our security challenges, but we don’t have political killings. We

have cases of cult related violence, but the security agencies are tackling the issue frontally with the support of the Rivers State Government “. “We have a secure state where businesses are thriving. That is why our internally generated revenue is growing regularly”, he added. In his remarks, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on the Army, Mr Rimamde Shawulu Kwewum, said that the committee was in the state on a fact finding mission following a peti-

£580,500

The monthly salary of Francesco Totti of Roma in 2014/2015. Source: Paywizard.co.uk

he National Coordinator of Niger Delta Peace Coalition (NDPC), Zik Gbemre, yesterday urged Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, to immortalise late Olorogun Felix Ibru by renaming the Delta State University after him. Gbemre, in a letter to

Okowa, said the late Ibru was the one that upgraded the university to a fullfledged university and was the first elected civilian governor of the state. “There is no better way to immortalise him than to name the state university after him, just the same way Obafemi Awolowo University Ife was named after Chief Obafemi Awolowo; Adekunle Ajasin University was named after Chief

£39.8m

The net amount of money spent/received by Bournemouth in the whole 2015-16 season. Source: 101greatgoals.com

L-R: Secretary to State Government, Hon. Ovie Agas; Director, North China Construction Nigeria Limited, Mr. Bob Lin; Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa; Chairman, North China Construction Nigeria Limited, Mr. Wu Guo Qi and the Managing Director, North China Construction Nigeria Limited, Dr. Osadebe Osakwe, during a courtesy on the Governor, by a delegation of the Construction, in Asaba.

A/Ibom detects 1,458 BVN-related frauds

he Akwa Ibom Government yesterday said it had uncovered 1,458 cases of Bank Verification Number (BVN) related frauds involving civil servants and pensioners in the public service. The Commissioner for Finance, Mr Akan Okon,

said this while inaugurating an eight-man BVN Verification Committee to address those anomalies in Uyo. Okon said the present administration had done a lot to reposition public servant’s payroll system for efficiency and effectiveness.

Okowa urged to rename Delta varsity after Ibru Tony Anichebe and Gabriel Efeduku

tion against the army by the Civil Liberties Organisation, CLO, on the killings of Ogoni people in their communities. He said that the committee was not in the state to apportion blame, but to determine what led to the alleged death of 24 persons during the military invasion. He said: “We are not here to defend any political party. The life of any person is important, irrespective of his political party” Meanwhile, the committee has started investigating the killings carried out by the army in Ogoni land, shortly before the rerun election

Chairman of the Committee, Rima Shawulu Kwewum, who addressed members of the State House of Assembly, at the Assembly Complex, stated that presently, the Army was deployed to the 36 states of the federation. In his opening remarks, the Chairman stated: “We are not here to pursue anybody’s agenda. We are here because of the allegation against Army. In his reply, the Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, Dabo Adams, charged the Committee members to be transparent in their fact-finding mission in the state, particularly concerning the alleged Army killing in Ogoniland. First to give testimony at the sitting was the Civil Liberty Organisation (CLO), which was presented by the Chairman, CLO, SouthSouth, Karl Chinedu, who said that CLO’s petition was based on several reports submitted to the organisation by communities and families of victims affected.

Michael Adekunle Ajasin in Ondo State; Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) was named after Ahaji Ahmadu Bello, among others. So should our own Delta State University be named after Olorogun Felix Ibru.” Gbemre added that the decision of Delta State government to build a befitting house for the late Ibru at Agbarho-Otor, Ughelli North, is good, but “Okowa should realise that building him

such a house is worthless to the Ibrus, who have vast estates and many property at Ovwor-Olomu, Ughelli South (his mother’s place) and Agbarha-Otor, Ughelli North (his father’s place). “Money or property is not what the Ibrus needed, but what they need is how their name could be sustained. And in my own view, the highest honour that can be given to the first elected civilian governor of the state.”

He added that BVN was one of the mechanisms deployed to checkmate activities of ``ghost workers’’ and pensioners, particularly in the public service. He explained that each individual was entitled to one BVN, irrespective of the number of accounts one has. He said that “the Akwa Ibom State Government has detected cases where one BVN is tied to more than one person. “This is worrisome and it may imply multiple salary and pension collections.’’ The commissioner stressed the need for public servants to take ownership of the payroll system to ensure it was not opened to fraud and leakages. Okon charged the Committee to see the as-

signment as a clarion call to the service of the state. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the BVN Verification Committee is headed by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Mrs Eme-ete Imuk. Other members of the Committee are Mrs Eno Offiong, the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Head of Service and Mrs Stella Etukakpan, the Permanent Secretary, Department of Establishment, while Mr Sunday Udioko, the Assistant Director, Computer Centre, Ministry of Finance, would serve as Secretary. The Committee has one month to complete the authentication exercise and also make recommendations to the state government.

News|north

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Lawmakers seek appropriate punishment for perpetrators of Nasarawa crisis

call has been made by the Nasarawa State House of Assembly to security agencies to bring perpetrators of the recent crises in some communities in the state to book. The Speaker, Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi, who made the called yesterday during the House plenary in Lafia, the state capital, said such action had become necessary to serve as deterrent to others. This is as he lamented that no meaningful development could be achieved

in an atmosphere of rancor, confusion and communal crisis, such as the ones being witnessed in the state. Abdullahi said: “It is uncalled for and unfortunate for some people to wake up and take arms against their brothers and sisters. There is no religion that preaches violence, but love, peace, unity and tolerance. “The recent communal crisis in Tudun Adabu, Daddere, Angwan Mamman and Obi communities, among others has negatively affected the state’s socioeconomic development

because without peace, no meaningful development could be achieved in any society. “Peace is priceless and non-negotiable and there is the need for people of the diverse ethnic, political and religious groupings to embrace peace. It is in view of this that we are calling on the security agencies to be up and doing in order to bring the perpetrators of the evil act to book.” Meanwhile, Abdullahi said that the House had passed a vote of confidence on Governor Tanko Al-Makura for en-

suring peace across the state, even as the Speaker commended the state’s traditional rulers and other stakeholders for their efforts at ensuring an end of the perennial crisis. He, therefore, advised the affected communities and other people in the state to be law abiding and respect constituted authorities in the interest of peace and national development. In their contribution to the debate, Tanko Tunga (APC-Awe-North), Muluku Ibrahim (PDP-Nassarawa Eggon East), Mohammed

Ahmed reiterates relevance of microfinance banks Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

wara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed yesterday said that Micro Finance Banks have critical roles to play in ensuring that a large number of Nigerians imbibe banking culture. Ahmed said this when the National Association of MicroFinanceBanks,Kwara State chapter visited him in his office at the Government House, Ilorin. Accordingtothegovernor, such an inclusive approach would have positive impact onmakingnationaleconomy more vibrant. While adding that it was in that regard his administrationfacilitatedthetransformationof CommunityBanks into Micro Finance Banks, particularly through patronage, the governor explained

that Micro Finance Banks wereusedbythestategovernment as funding windows for its small and medium enterprises and empowerment programmesinordertoboost economicactivities,especially in the rural areas. He assured operators of Micro Finance Banks that the state government had not directed civil servants in the state to move their salary accounts to commercial banks. He, however, advised the banks to ensure that their customers get their Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) as the state government would not pay salaries of workers without BVN. The Secretary of the Association of Micro Finance Banks in the state, Mr. Ashaolu Oladepo in his remarks, commended the state government for patronising micro finance banks.

Agatu invasion: Returning refugees without shelter, says LG boss A cross-section of the newly elected executive members of the National Igbo Cultural Association, Adamawa Branch, taking the oath of allegiance in Yola… yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Zazzau Emirate accuses Shiites of violence Ibraheem Musa and Yekeen Nurudeen

he Zazzau Emirate Development Association (ZEDA) has alleged that members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN), otherwise known as the Shi’ites, have been terrorising the emirate for several years. The spokesman of ZEDA, Malam Mohammed Balarabe, who stated this while appearing before the judicial commission of inquiry sitting in Kaduna yesterday, vividly narrated how the Shiites have been taking laws into their hands by shutting down roads when

they hold processions. According to the spokesman, Zaria residents were forced to remain indoors whenever the movement was having an outing. Balarabe said the December 12th clash between the members of the Islamic movement in Nigeria and the Nigerian Army was not the first time that the Shi’ites have confronted constituted authorities, adding that the Islamic sect is violent. The spokesman cited instances where the group had encounters with the Emir of Zazzau , Alhaji Shehu Idris and former Governor Mukhtar Ramalan Yero of Kaduna State. He also recalled that the

movements had series of encounters with previous administrations. According to him: “We are familiar with the movement’s actions for 20 years of existence. And as someone who schooled in Ahmadu Bello University, ABU, Zaria, we know where the shoe pinches. “Whenever we heard they have outing, we stay away because it will bring untold hardship on the people. They shut the road. They have outings on Thursday and we shun the roads to avoid confrontations. “It’s not their first time. They have done it to the Emir of Zaria, Dr. Shehu Idris and former Governor

Mukhtar Ramalan Yero when he was to visit a sick friend in the hospital,” Balarabe stated.Meanwhile, the Arewa Youths Intellectual Forum has raised the alarm over what it described as plots to politicise the investigation ahead of the 2019 general elections. This as the group said there were plans by IMN to pitch the Federal Government against the Kaduna State Government in the investigation. The National Secretary of the forum, Peter Bawa, who spoke with journalists in Abuja yesterday, said it would not allow the sinister attempt to politicise and rubbish the investigation into the Zaria killings.

Ortom denies taking N34m for China trip Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

enue State Governor, Samuel Ortom yesterday denied allegation levelled against him by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state that he had siphoned over N34 million from the coffers of the state government for his trip to the People’s Republic of China.

The governor, it would be recalled, was part of President Muhammadu Buhari’s delegation on the official trip to China, where the governor is currently taking part in the 119th Canton Fair. But PDP supporters in the state had alleged that the governor collected N34 million from government’s coffer for the trip with his wife at a time civil servants were groaning over non-payment of

their salary. However, Ortom, through the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Terver Akase, described the allegation as frivolous, adding that those peddling such falsehood were not in tune with the provisions of the statutes of public service. The governor noted that those bent on roping him in the allegation should bear in mind that he was entitled to traveling allowances anytime he was to travel either

within or outside the country. Meanwhile, the governor is expected to make a presentation at the opening of the First North Central NigeriaChina Business and Investment Forum, scheduled to take place in Guangzhou. The China trip, New Telegraph gathered will avail members of the Nigerian and Chinese business communities the opportunity to rub minds on current global economic trends.

Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

ollowing the invasion of their communities and destruction of their homes by the suspected Fulani herdsmen, the returning Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) of the seven communities in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, are to start life afresh as they were without shelter and seedlings for their farm work. New Telegraph gathered that the seven villages reduced to rumbles by the invaders are Aila, AkwuAgatu, Adagbo, Okokolo, Ocholonyi, Abugbe and Odugbeho, with their farms, foodstuffs and seedlings stored for farming in

this planting season were also not spared. The Caretaker Chairman of the Local Government Council, Mr. Joseph Ngbede in an interview with New Telegraph, hinted that at present, only one IDPs camp remained at Aila, even as he stressed that some of the victims were willing to go back to their homes to start normal farming activities, but that there was no place for them to stay if they finally return to their ancestral homes. Ngbede appealed to the federal and state governments as well as wellmeaning individuals and organisations to help rebuild Agatu communities destroyed by the insurgents.

Borno gov co-hosts conference in Abuja Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

overnor Kashim Shettima of Borno State will today, co-host a gathering of eminent statesmen, international development agencies, Global Shapers and private sector partners with the active involvement of young people to discuss how to rebuild the state after insurgency. The conference, Tagged, ‘FIRST ANNUAL DIALOGUE ON REBUILDING BORNO, epitomises the state government’s high level political will to progress rebuilding with a renewed focus on human development priorities for the state. The event is scheduled for 9am at the Borno Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.

The conference, which is being organised by Borno State Government and AOA Global, (the co-host) brings together leaders in their respective fields to put their heads together to formulate strategic and sustainable plans for Rebuilding Borno. Health and education will be the twin focus for development of strategic solutions with gender empowerment, children and young people and food security as cross cutting themes for this seminal Thought Leadership Laboratory. The United Kingdom’s Department for International Development (DFID) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will be active partners in the development of an implementation plan and input also provided by the Rhodes Trust, Oxford.

WORLD \ NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ecuador quake death toll rises to 350, search continues

he number of people killed in a powerful earthquake that struck Ecuador over the weekend has risen to about 350, the government has said. There have been desperate scenes as rescuers and family members

searched for survivors, often with bare hands. Teams from Switzerland, Spain and several Latin American countries have arrived to join the search effort. More than 2,000 people were injured in the quake, Ecuador’s most powerful in decades, which hit its Pacific coast.

Earlier, President Rafael Correa warned that the death toll was likely to rise, and said there were still people alive under the rubble of collapsed buildings. President Correa visited some of the people affected by the disaster after cutting short a visit to

Italy to return to his home country. “I fear that figure will go up because we keep on removing rubble,” a shaken Mr Correa said in a televised address. “There are signs of life in the rubble, and that is being prioritised.” The president warned that the quake

will cost Ecuador billions of dollars. It comes at a time when the oil-producing country is already reeling from the slump in global crude prices. Correspondents say that while the country’s energy industry survived the quake mostly intact - the main refinery of Esmeral-

das was closed as a precaution - exports of bananas, flowers, cocoa beans and fish could be delayed because of impassable roads and hold-ups at ports. Foreign Minister Guillaume Long praised those nations which had contributed to the rescue effort.

EU seeks ways to boost unity government in Libya

uropean Union foreign ministers are looking at ways to boost the fledgling UNbacked national unity government in Libya and see how to control illegal migration from the north African nation. British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond

President Rafael Correa embracing victims of the quake.

Syrian rebels declare new battle against govt

yrian rebel groups announced a new battle against government forces yesterday; a sign of escalating violence that has undermined a ceasefire deal and threatens to derail UN led peace talks. The groups, which included factions fighting under the banner of the Free Syrian Army and powerful Islamist Ahrar al-Sham, said in a statement they would respond “with force” against any government forces that fired on civilians. The ceasefire deal has been strained to breaking point by escalating fighting, particularly around

the divided city of Aleppo, with each side blaming the other for the escalation that has underlined the huge challenge facing the peace talks. Heavy air strikes have also been reported north of Homs. Senior opposition figures who have asked not to be quoted have said pressure is growing for a speedy decision to leave talks being convened by UN envoy Staffan de Mistura in Geneva, with no sign of progress towards discussion of a political transition sought by President Bashar al-Assad’s opponents. The statement announced the “formation

of a joint operations room to begin the battle in response to violations by the army of Assad.” It gave no geographic location for the new battle. Senior Syrian opposition negotiators Sunday urged rebels to strike back against the Syrian army, accusing it of using a cessation of hostilities to gain ground, and cast doubt over whether they would continue Geneva peace talks indefinitely. The cessation of hostilities agreement brokered by the United States and Russia came into effect February 27 with the aim of allowing peace talks to get underway.

UN decries rise in Burundi torture cases

he United Nations human rights chief voiced alarm yesterday at a sharp increase in the use of torture in violence-torn Burundi, with nearly 400 cases recorded so far this year. Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein said his team on the ground had registered “at least 345 cases of torture and illtreatment” since January, and nearly 600 since tensions spiralled a year ago, warning the actual num-

bers were likely higher. “These shocking figures are a clear indicator of the widespread and growing use of torture and illtreatment by government security forces,” Zeid said in a statement. His comments came a day after UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon described the situation in Burundi as “alarmingly precarious”, and proposed three options for a new UN police mission there.

Brazil’s crisis: Rousseff loses lower house’s impeachment vote

arliament in Brazil has voted to start impeachment proceedings against President Dilma Rousseff over charges of manipulating government accounts. The “yes” camp comfortably won the required two-thirds majority in the vote in the lower house in Brasilia. The motion will now go to the upper house, the Senate, which

is expected to suspend Ms Rousseff next month while it carries out a formal trial. She denies tampering with the accounts to help secure her re-election in 2014. Her supporters describe the vote as a “coup against democracy” and the ruling Workers’ Party has promised to continue its fight to defend her “in the streets and in the Senate”.

Burundi has been in turmoil since President Pierre Nkurunziza announced plans in April last year to run for a third term, which he went on to win. Violence has left more than 400 people dead and driven more than 250,000 people across the border. Zeid said most of the torture in the country was taking place in facilities run by Burundi’s intelligence service, but also pointed the finger at the national police and, to a lesser extent, the army.

change OF NAME

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Ayaogbo

I formerly known and addressed as Parah Marvelous Oyas now wish to be known and addressed as Parah Ayaogbo. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

was the latest EU official to travel to Libya yesterday after his counterparts from Germany and France had done so over the weekend in a concerted effort to boost the authority of prime minister-designate Fayez Serraj. Hammond was taken

CONFIRMATION/change OF NAME

under tight security to the heavily protected naval base where the administration of prime ministerdesignate Fayez Serraj is struggling to establish its authority. He said Britain supported Serraj’s efforts to “restore peace and stability to the whole of Libya.”

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TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sport News

Did you know?

Sport

Greek league title excites Ideye

That Liverpool are the first EPL team to win away at 50 different venues

International Vardy faces increased ban after FA charge

46 47

Rio: Japan plan Ghana friendly for U-23 Eagles Emmanuel Tobi

igeria’s first opponent at the football event of the 2016 Olympics in Brazil, the Japanese U-23 team, is working hard to stop the U-23 Eagles as they have finalised a friendly match with Ghana. The Coach Samson Siasia-led team will begin their campaign at the Rio Olympics against Japan on August 4 at the Arena da Amazonia, Manaus billed then tackle Sweden on August 7 at the same venue before travelling to Arena Corinthians in Sao Paulo to tackle Colombia on August 10. The Japanese team which won the Asian U-23 Championship in January in Qatar picked Ghana to give the team a resemblance of what to expect when they face Nigeria. The match has been slated for May 11 in Saga Prefecture, Japan. Japan coach, Teguramori Makoto, speaking after the team’s 2-0 win over a local side at the weekend expressed confidence in the team as they prepare for tournament billed for August. “Through this trip, the newly called-up players showed their will to remain on the squad for the Olympics and it inspired those who had been on this team and gave them some energy. The process to expand our players depth has come 90 percent so far,” he said.

Nigeria’s Victor Moses (left) heads the ball during a 2017 AFCON qualifier

Kaoje: Football leaders fight over self-interest

...berates Giwa for heading to court Adekunle Salami

former Sports Minister, Bala Kaoje, has said that football administrators in the country fight one another due to greed and

The Sport Team Adekunle Salami Group Sport Editor

Emmanuel Tobi Assistant Sport Editor

Ajibade Olusesan Sport Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya Sport Correspondent

self-interest at the detriment of the progress of the game. Kaoje said it was unfortunate that the rich history of Nigeria in football was not always considered each time the administrators of the game tend to drag the name

of the county in the mud. He said:“It is very disturbing that Nigeria is struggling to make impact in the game even on the continent despite the abundant talents all over the country. “There is no time to plan and think about the future of

Enyimba, Bassey in tough CAF Champions League duels

n a strange mid-week return fixtures of the CAF Champions League, Nigerian Champion Enyimba are set for what may turn out to be a do or die confrontation on Wednesday in Sousse, about 150 kilometers from the Tunisian Capital despite a convincing 3-0 victory back home in Nigeria. Already in Tunis for the top of the bill confrontation that will be handled by Moroccan officials with Sinko Zeli of Cote D’ivoire as Match Commissioner, the Nigerians are confident of holding on to their

impressive 3-0 lead. No stranger to the vociferous support expected from Etoile Sportive du Sahel supporters in Sousse, the club Chairman Felix Anyansi told the media before departure that they were ready for the worst. “We have trained under floodlight and on artificial turf, we are ready for a capacity and sometimes unfriendly crowd. We will not be intimidated. The three goals we scored back home cannot be disputed and we will endeavour to reestablish our superiority before their very own fans.

Meanwhile, respected CAF and FIFA Match Commissioner Paul Bassey is in Algeria to superintendent over what is expected to be an explosive return leg match between Mouloudia Olympic Bejaaia of Algeria and Zamalek of Egypt. “ I know it will be tough, with Mouloudia hoping to overturn a two goal deficit, but don’t forget that at this stage all the matches are considered tough being the last matches that will guarantee qualification to the group stage, “the Akwa United Chairman said.

the game because of the desire to make personal gains. I believe proper planning and showing firm appreciation for the past could help the country find its footing again.” The former National Sports Commission boss also expressed disappointment over the current leadership crisis engulfing the Nigeria Football Federation. He noted that the Chis Giwa-led fight against the current NFF executive board will set Nigeria football backward. “Going to court is wrong. I expect everyone in the football family should disassociate themselves itself from the Giwa group for taking football to ordinary courts. The consequences of the court action will portend a difficult future for the country after a rich history in the sport,” Kaoje noted. He also stressed that the current NFF board led by Amaju Pinnick did not do enough in the area of reconciliation to avert crisis in the system.

SPORT NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Greek league title excites Ideye Prince Obiaku

ormer Super Eagles striker, Brown Ideye, has expressed excitement after winning his first ever league title with Olympiakos of Greece on Sunday. The 27-year-old forward who was shipped out from West Brom to the Athens-based club last summer after he struggled to make an impression in the EPL was on target for Olympiakos as they claimed their 43rd Greek championship title with a 5-0 win over AEL Kalloni FC at Karaiskakis Stadium on Sunday. Ideye put the icing on the cake when he scored his side’s fifth goal of the encounter, his 10th league goal of the

Ideye (right)

Attah calls for review of NFF statutes Adeolu Johnson Abuja

former Super Eagles Coordinator Emmanuel Attah has said that the review of the Nigeria Football Federation statutes is the only solution to the lingering crisis in the federation over the years. Attah who said this on Monday in Abuja noted that the leadership crisis rocking the federation was a big distraction to the country’s preparations for the World Cup and Olympic Games. “Because nobody will come and say he knows it all let us go and review Nigeria football

status once again and do things right. The issue is that unless we are sincere to ourselves.” The Taraba State NYSC coordinator said: “It is so sad that the Nigeria football is going down, when we are there, I think Nigeria ranked 42 in the world and among the first 5 in Africa. But today, we are 67 in the world and 14th in Africa, definitely something is wrong somewhere “And any house in crisis cannot stand the test of time. Let all stakeholders be invited to review the status of the NFF and that will be the solution to crisis.”

season in 24 league appearances for the club. The former Dynamo Kiev star revealed that his title triumph with Olympiakos brought back good memories of Nigeria’s success at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa. Ideye tweeted: “A big thank you to all who have supported us through this journey. We are champions. “It was great and emotional day for me. The last time I felt this way was at AFCON 2013. Feel so excited because it is my first league win in my career.” The feat means Olympiakos will play in next season’s UEFA Champions League.

Zenith WBL: First Bank, Dolphins, Immigration secure wins Emmanuel Tobi

he race for Top Eight qualification at the second phase of the Zenith Bank Women Basketball League in Asaba, Delta State continued on Monday as Group B leaders, First Bank Basketball Club walloped Taraba Hurricanes 104-17. First Bank, who are yet to lose a game since the first phase in Abuja, were at their best dominating their opponent throughout the games. Similarly, defending champions Dolphins defeated AHIP 77-54 as Immigration basketball club edged

Oluyole Babes 38-36 in a low scoring game that could have gone either way. Both teams were lethargic and did enough to see the game through, while FCT Angels beat Nasarawa Amazons 38-28. First Bank’s coach Peter Ahmedu said: “We are not leaving any stone unturned as we focus on winning the second phase here in Asaba.” According to Dolphins coach, Ochuko Okorogun, “It is difficult to run over teams as most of them have become better and putting up splendid performances in Asaba. Despite our team’s struggles, retaining the title is Dolphins’ ultimate ambition.”

Ekpai still Akwa United player – Bassey Charles Ogundiya

hairman of Akwa United, Paul Bassey, has declared that U-23 striker, Ubong Ekpai, remains bonafide player of the club. The chairman debunked rumour that the player had signed a deal with Israeli side, Macaibi Haifa. “At no time did Akwa United negotiated the signing or the release of the player to Macaibi Haifa, not to talk of the payment of transfer fees and so on,” he said. “Akwa United consented to his visiting Israel to see things for himself before deciding on whether he wants to

play in Israel or not after undue pressure from the club (Macaibi Haifa) and the player. “This came after we personally advised Ekpai to have patience, that as a key member of Siasia’s U-23 squad to the Rio Olympics in August, he is most likely to attract better offers especially from European Clubs.”

Bassey added that it would be difficult to let Ekpai go to Israel or any other club for that matter until after the current league season. He said: “As a club we will never stay in the way of a player who decides to move on in life by seeking greener pas- L-R: Brand Manager, Olympic, Bamise Oyegbami; Brand Ambassador, Peter Okoye; winner of the all extures elsewhere, but we pense paid trip to Etihad Stadium, Olabode Akinrinola; Managing Director, Nutricima, Weber Eelco, and owe it to our youths to Category Marketing Manager, Olympic, Raphael Agbaje, at the Olympic Football Fans Rave held in Lagos advise them properly as the lure of the dollar can sometimes be deceptive. “Meanwhile we take of the singles with a 6-3, 7-6(3) win over exception to the unpro- Prince Obiaku Luca Margaroli of Switzerland. fessional behavior of Emmanuel a wild card entrant Ekpai’s agent and the Israeli Club in declaring igeria’s Sylvester Emmanuel cre- ranked 1551 broke Margaroli, the that Ekpai has signed ated an upset as the main draw world no 895 in the fourth and sixth with them, whereas of the 2nd Tombim Abuja Open game to seal the first set 6-3 but he nothing of such has been ITF Futures served-off on Monday at the was stretched to a tie breaker in the second set. formalised and agreed National Tennis Centre, Abuja. With Margaroli looking to force a by us.” He progressed into the second round rubber as he led 6-5 in the second set, Emmanuel who enjoyed a huge home support, won the twelfth set on his own serve to force a tie break decider to the delight of the fans, who had moments to weed out some of the bad elements to bring the game into disrepute.” while also calling on club managements On his expectation on the verdict earlier seen a Swiss triumphed over a to find a way to educate their fans. Ezeaku said, “The rule said three points Nigeria on the same Centre Court as “I am not worried about the out- and three goals, but if the LMC want Simeon Rossier beat Joseph Ubon 7-5, come of the game or the judgment to be lenient with them, then they will 6-2. “I trained hard for this tournament that will come later, all my worries are leave our one goal and three points. about the message we are passing to “It was just most unfortunate be- and I was determined to give my best the outside world,” the lawyer turned cause Rangers have lost at home before performance. I’m happy I played very club administrator said. and nothing happen. The same Giwa well and won. Hopefully, I will do bet“Apart from prosecution of those ar- was in Enugu last season and picked a ter in my next match,” Emmanuel said. Youngster Ubon capitulated in the rested, clubs must begin to educate their point without anybody harassing them. fans on how to comport themselves be- As a lawyer, I will make sure Rangers do second set against Rossier having come very close to take the opening set. fore, during and after matches, so as not the right thing at all times.”

Tombim ITF Abuja Open: Emmanuel upsets Swiss player

Ubong

Abandoned match: Rangers want LMC to prosecute fans Charles Ogundiya

he Team Manager of Rangers International of Enugu, Amobi Ezeaku, has derided some individuals trying to discredit the good work of the League Management Company on the Nigeria Professional Football League. Speaking on the crisis that led to the abandonment of his team’s game against Giwa FC in Jos at the weekend, Ezeaku said efforts should be made

INTERNATIONAL SPORT

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Amokachi: African coaches can excel in Europe W

Messi (left)

Figo: Barcelona must show character Club waits on Neymar’s fracas decision

ormer Barcelona winger Figo has called on Luis Enrique’s side to prove their mettle after Sunday’s loss to Valencia. The Liga leaders’ 2-1 defeat at Camp Nou means they are level on points with Atletico Madrid and one ahead of Real Madrid with five matches of the campaign to play. With three defeats in a row in La Liga and having lost to

Atletico in the Champions League quarterfinals, pressure is mounting on the Catalans to recapture the form which saw them go 39 games unbeaten this season. Figo says that their slump is “not normal” and has challenged them to show sufficient mental strength to defend both their league and Copa del Rey crowns. Meanwhile, Barcelona face an anxious wait to see if Ney-

mar will be sanctioned after a tunnel fracas in the wake of the Nou Camp club’s defeat to Valencia. The Brazilian was seen aiming insults at former Liverpool right-back Antonio Barragan, who shackled him successfully in the away side’s 2-1 victory. And with reports of him having thrown a bottle at the Valencia defender, Barca are awaiting a decision from La Liga on whether action might be taken.

Vardy faces increased ban after FA charge

Nadal

Nadal relishes Monte Carlo win

afael Nadal on Sunday struggled to comprehend the full significance of his ninth title from ten finals at the Monte Carlo Masters. The Spaniard who has ruled for most of his career on the dirt, went for two and three-quarter hours before beating Frenchman Gael Monfils 7-5, 5-7, 6-0 in a morale-boosting victory of massive proportions. “Winning nine times here is something unbelievable for me. Outside of that, that is something so special. Compete well two weeks in a row is something so positive,” Nadal said. “I have another chance this week in Barcelona, I am going to try my best again.”

eicester City striker Jamie Vardy faces an extended ban during the Premier League title run-in after being charged with improper conduct by the Football Association. Vardy, 29, remonstrated with referee Jon Moss after he was shown a red card in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with West Ham. The FA has also charged Leicester with failing to control their players after West Ham won an 83rdminute penalty. Vardy and Leicester have until pm on Thursday to respond Vardy, the Premier League’s joint leading scorer with 22 goals this season, was

shown a second yellow card early in the second half for diving. The England international receives an automatic one-match ban for his dismissal, but that looks certain to be increased following the FA charge.

ario Balotelli has admitted that he was “never happy” during his time at Liverpool. The controversial striker signed for the Reds from AC Milan in a £16m deal in September 2014, but failed to make an impact in his first season at Anfield. The 25-year-old rejoined Milan on a loan deal last summer, but injuries have marred his time back at the San Siro. It is unclear whether or not the Italian club will sign him Balotelli

hen Daniel Amokachi touched down in Finland at the end of January to take on his new role as head coach of second division side JS Hercules, it was like nothing he had ever experienced before. A far cry from the searing heat of his native Nigeria, the 1994 CAF Africa Cup of Nations winner arrived at Oulu, a city just a two-hour drive from the Arctic Circle, to link up with the semi-professional Finnish outfit, his first managerial job in Europe. “Freezing was the not the word, that’s an understatement - it was minus 35 degrees [Celsius] when I arrived!” he laughs, speaking to FIFA.com in an exclusive interview. “I was leaving a country that was roasting, about 38 degrees when I left Nigeria. The day before I travelled, I checked the weather forecast with my wife and she joked: ‘Do you really want to go?’ [laughs] I said ‘Of course!’. The weather in Finland is an obstacle but with all obstacles when you’re trying to achieve someAmokachi thing, you throw them out the window. “The outdoor pitches are frozen and everything we do at the moment is indoor. You have a number of other teams using those facilities and it’s hard to get a full pitch to yourself, which can make the program you’re trying to lay down difficult. But I am a Nigerian, an African. I’m used to challenges and I would love to see it through.” Opening doors A former assistant manager of the Nigerian national team - and later interim manager of the Super Eagles - Amokachi’s move to manage a semi-professional Finnish side came as a

Vardy

I was never happy at Liverpool – Balotelli

permanently when the season comes to an end, but the player himself has admitted that he does not want to return to Merseyside. “I want to stay at Milan,” Balotelli told Mediaset Premium. “I do not want to return to Liverpool. I was never happy at Liverpool. Plus Milan have the money.” Balotelli, who spent three years at Manchester City, has scored just one Serie A goal since returning to Milan.

surprise to many. “It is my first experience as an African manager coaching in Europe and there are not many Africans who are head coaches in Europe,” said the former Club Brugge, Everton and Besiktas star. “They are giving me a platform as an African to showcase what I can do and if I do well, it’s an open door for other African coaches.” International focus Despite being three-time continental champions, Nigeria’s failure to reach the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations was confirmed last month. The Super Eagles slipped to a defeat against Egypt in the preliminaries, who claimed the qualifying group’s only place at Gabon, meaning the heavyweights will miss back-to-back continental championships. “The players when return to play in Africa on international duty forget to switch [mentally]. It’s something that we kind of struggle with - not only as Nigerians, but as Africans,” said Amokachi, who was assistant coach of the national team when they last won the tournament in 2013. “You play in Europe and everything you get is professional from A-Z and then when you come to Africa, the likes of transportation and accommodation can seem a distraction. “The players forget to switch to being an African when they come back and that always makes them perform less than what they do at club level. I’m sure that has contributed to Nigeria not making it to backto-back championships. Not qualifying for the tournament is not good enough for a country like Nigeria, but that’s football. It makes you sit up and say: ‘We have a lot of work that needs to be done.’”

Pellegrini blames Guardiola for City’s drop

anchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has blamed the announcement of Pep Guardiola as his successor for his team dropping out of the Premier League title race. The North-West outfit revealed on February 1 that Guardiola would leave his job as Bayern Munich boss to take over at City on a three-year deal this summer. “Of course for different reasons we lost important games in February, against Leicester and Tottenham - two games which do not allow us to be involved in the title,” Pellegrini said. “ At the start of Febru-

ary there was news about the change of the manager, about players who will not continue here next season, about a lot of things that involved the minds of all the players. “We had those defeats at home, but now we are stable again and very happy to finish playing the way we have in these last games. It’s not easy for the players when you read in newspapers all things that will happen next season - all the players who will go out, all the players that will come in - it’s not easy for the players to focus their mind.”

On Marble People have different reasons

for the way they live their lives. You cannot put everyone’s reasons in the same box.

Clem Aguiyi

Sanctity of Truth

Setting Ndi Igbo up for massacre

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

– Kevin Spacey

TUESDAY, APRIL 19, 2016

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The outlaws of Islam (1) “In the name of God the Great we shall kill, slaughter and drain the blood of every single unbeliever, every apostate and every traitor that supports them until we establish our new world Caliphate. We will wash our hands with the blood of the infidels” – Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi, the leader of The Islamic State of Iraq and The Levant (ISIL).

Crossfire FEMI FANI-KAYODE ffk2011@aol.com

hese are the words of a monstrous vampire that desires to swim in an ocean of innocent blood. These are the thoughts and satanic vision of the indisputable leader of the dreaded terrorist movement known as Daesh. These are the aspirations of a man that rejects the version of Islam that we know, that we respect and that the overwhelming majority of Muslims espouse and practice. This is a man that represents such a graphic and fundamental perversion and corruption of the faith that he claims to represent and that has become such a terror to humanity that he can hardly be described as a human being at all but rather as a barbarous beast that is not worthy of life. Simply put Mr. Al Baghdadi is beyond the pale: his level of depravity and capacity for evil is simply incomprehensible. There is no word that can adequately describe his brand of depravation and his insidious level of inhumanity. So seized of the devil is he that even his brothers in terror like the Taliban and Al Qaeda speak of him in hushed tones. In his famous play titled ‘The Tempest’ Shakespeare wrote: “hell is empty. All the devils are here”. The bard was right. All the devils and demons have indeed left hell and they are right here on planet earth. All across the world they spread their vile message of violence and hate. They kill Christians, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, moderate Muslims, secularists, atheists, agnostics and all those who do not share their barbaric beliefs and primitive world view. They take special delight in preying on the weak and the vulnerable, especially the young and the old. To them the energy and life-force of a pubescent child is like nectar which they take joy in sucking out, absorbing and drinking and sacrificing to their demons. They unleash bombs, bullets, bloodshed, genocide, mass murder, ethnic cleansing, beheadings, suicide bombers, child soldiers, butchery and carnage everywhere they go and all in the name of their god. No wonder the Holy Bible says “the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel”. What can one say about those who slit open the throats of others and drain all their blood all in the name of their god? What can one say about those who

Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi

King Abdullah II

put their fellow human beings in iron cages and burns them alive all in the name of their god? What can one say about those that tie up women in the presence a frenzied crowd and stone them to death all in the name of their god? What can one say about those that carve out the hearts of their fellow men and eat them raw in front of television cameras all in the name of their god? What can one say about those that abduct, rape, enslave and murder little girls and justify it all in the name of their god. These are the people that King Abdullah 11 of Jordan has rightly described as the ‘’outlaws of Islam”. They are indeed not just the ‘outlaws of Islam’ but also the troublers of humanity. They are the seed of the great serpent Lucifer, the Son of the Dawn and the spawn of hell. They are the mortal enemies of all men and women of faith and all believers in the Living God. They are the adversaries of every true Muslim, every Christian and every Jew on the planet. Their’s is to spread hate, fear, terror, carnage, bloodshed and sorrow. Their’s is to steal, kill and destroy. Their’s is to do the bidding of Satan and to establish the counsel of the ungodly here on earth. The jihadists are evil. They are the vermin of the earth. Like the Jebusites, Midianites, Canaanites and Amalekites of old they deserve to be wiped out: every single one of them. And it is our collective

duty to see to it that this is done. Ours is to offer praises to the Living God, to pray in His name and to sing

with joy and pride as we march forth to meet them in the field of spiritual and physical battle. Ours is to turn ourselves into the Lord’s tool of judgment and to strike them down wherever they may be. Ours is to ensure that the forces of light prevail over the forces of darkness by the power of His word. This is our calling and duty and God Himself wills it. And if they are still in any doubt about where all this is heading in the Nigerian context they should consider the following. On December 30th 1964, Mallam Bala Garba told the West African Pilot newspaper that: “the conquest to the sea is now in sight. When our godsent Ahmadu Bello said some years ago that our conquest will reach the sea shores of Nigeria, some idiots in the South were doubting its possibilities. Today have we not reached the sea? Lagos is reached. It remains Port-Harcourt. It must be conquered and taken.” This is an eloquent expression of radical Islam, with its pervasive use of violence as a tool of conquest and subjugation, in its purest and most obvious form. Inspired and equipped with this Janjaweed philosophy and ethos, the whole of core northern Nigeria was conquered by Sheik Usman Dan Fodio through the use of terror and by the power of the sword in the name of jihad. Millions of innocent non-Muslims were cut to pieces in the process.

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