Tuesday, april 7, 2015 binder1 by Newtelegraphonline

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Tuesday, April 7, 2015

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Vol. 2 No. 412

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PDP members occupy Assembly over FAYOse impeachment threat

PenCom moves to frustrate states' access to bonds Sunday Ojeme

ollowing the failure of some state governments to fully key into the provisions of the Pension Reform Act 2014, the National Pension Com-

mission (PenCom) may liaise with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to deny defaulting states access to bonds from the capital market in future. The move, New Tele-

graph learnt, is to compel all the state governments to key into the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) by registering their workers as well as remitting every deduction made from the workers’ salaries in

the case of those that have registered their workers. A source at the commission, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told New Telegraph that there was no other way to get the states to comply with

the scheme other than putting mechanism in place to deny them access to bonds. According to him, with the way things are going, there is no other way to penalise any state government that has either re-

fused to register workers or those who registered their workers, deduct the pension but fail to remit the deductions to the appropriate Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Poll: Outrage over anti-Igbo statement

}2 lOba of Lagos: I didn't threaten Ndigbo lPDP, Fashola, George, Ambode, Ohanaeze react

Quick Read

Editorial

The need to vote wisely }19 Abia North: INEC official dissociates self from results }7

A cross-section of children in class session in an Internally Displaced Persons' camp at Durumi in Abuja…yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

‘No going back on card readers on April 11' Travel Advisory

Your guide to local and international flights }4

Onyekachi Eze and Johnchuks Onuanyim Abuja

he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared that there is no going back on the use

of Smart Card Readers (SCRs) for the April 11th governorship and House of Assembly elections. The declaration came

despite the challenges experienced with the use of the card readers in the March 28 Presidential and CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

News

TUESday, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Poll: Outrage over anti-Igbo statement T Our Correspondents

he Oba of Lagos, Alhaji Rilwan Akiolu, has come under attack over his threat to Ndigbo in Lagos State to vote the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Akinwunmi Ambode, or perish in the lagoon. Akiolu’s threat has triggered an outrage across diverse segments of the polity ahead the April 11 governorship and House of Assembly polls. The monarch, in a statement issued by the palace yesterday, however, denied threatening Igbos in Lagos. He said his comments were taken out of context. "On Saturday, if anyone of you goes against Ambode who I picked, that is your end. If it doesn't happen within seven days, just know that I am a bastard and it’s not my father who gave birth to me. "…By the grace of God, I am the owner of Lagos for the time being. This is an undivided chair. The palace belongs to the dead and those coming in the future. On Saturday, if anyone of you, I swear in the name of God, goes against my wish that Ambode will be the next governor of Lagos State, the person is going to die inside this water,” Oba Akiolu had said. Akiolu handed down the open threat when he met with the leaders of the Igbos in Lagos on Sunday. During the meeting, the royal father expressed disappointment at the near defeat of the APC during the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly polls and blamed it on Igbo support for President Goodluck Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). But the PDP, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and other stakeholders have condemned Akiolu’s threat. In fact, Dr. Joseph Onoh, the son of former governor of old Anambra State, Chief Christian C. Onoh, yesterday threatened to drag the Lagos monarch before the International Criminal Court of Justice (ICC) for issuing such threat to Ndigbo. Onoh stated that Akiolu’s statement was an incitement against the Igbos in Lagos. "Let it be known that whether Oba Akilou's threat come to fruition or not, I have concluded plans to take him to the ICC where he will answer to human rights violation charges that will be preferred against him," Onoh said. Ohanaeze Ndigbo said it has embarked on consulta-

tions with Igbo stakeholders on how to respond appropriately to the threat. President-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Gary Enwo-Igariwey, told New Telegraph that his leadership was in touch with the Igbos in Lagos, Abuja and some traditional rulers in the South-East over Akiolu’s threat. The youth wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo also issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Oba to "retract and unconditionally apologise to Ndigbo" over his threat. Ohanaeze said it considered the comments credited to the monarch as "a despicable insult on the Igbo nation least expected of a royal father of the rank of Oba of Lagos." National President of Ohanaeze Youth Council,

Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, in a statement, said: “Igbo youths will not take this insult lightly, and unless he apologises within 48 hours he should know he is courting our wrath. "Nobody, no matter what he thinks he is, has the right to command Ndigbo anywhere on who to vote for in a democratic setting." The Ohanaeze youth leader said that the unprintable comments credited to the Oba had only revealed his innate hatred against “Ndigbo whom God has destined to prosper in any part of the world even in hostile environments." He, therefore, called on the security agencies to immediately invite the monarch for questioning

over his remarks "which portend grave security implications." Ohanaeze further said that should anything happen to Ndigbo or their business interests in Lagos in the eventuality of APC's defeat at the governorship race, the Oba should be held responsible. The PDP, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, described as unfortunate that a royal father of the status of the Oba of Lagos should attempt to drag the revered traditional institution into partisan politics to the level of threatening innocent Nigerians. PDP reminded Oba Akiolu that he cannot play God and can never be God. "God owns the universe and every part of it

and can never share His glory with any human, no matter how highly placed. We, therefore, call on all Nigerians in Lagos State; all Igbos, Hausas, Yorubas and people of other tribes; all northerners and southerners; all Christians and Muslims to turn against this unpatriotic stance, by coming out en masse to vote for the PDP candidate, Mr. Jimi Agbaje on Saturday," PDP stated. Director, Media and Publicity of the Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Organisation (PDPPCO), Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, said the statement is ominous and unacceptable. According to FaniKayode, "We want peace and we want harmony in this country, but no one or

no group of people will be allowed to turn us or our supporters into slaves or give us sleepless nights. No one will be allowed to throw our supporters ''into the lagoon'' and make them ''perish'' and neither will there be any negative consequences if they vote against the APC in Lagos or anywhere else.” The Catholic Caritas Foundation of Nigeria (CCFN), an organ of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), also condemned Akiolu’s threat. The group said the royal father missed the point when he forgot that Nigeria is not a monarchy, but a republic where the right of the citizens to vote freely in an election has been guarCONTINUED ON PAGE 6

L-R: Former Minister of Power, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu; President-elect, Major General Muhammadu Buhari and Tunisian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Hattab Haddaoul, during the envoy's visit to Buhari in Abuja…yesterday.

Threat to Ndigbo: My story, by Oba of Lagos Muritala Ayinla

he Oba of Lagos, Alhaji Rilwan Akiolu, has cleared the air over the controversial threat of Igbos living in Lagos State to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC). The traditional ruler stated that he only appealed to the Igbo leaders to show appreciation to the state by voting APC governorship candidate, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, for the continuity of excellence as they have earlier promised. In a statement signed by the Opeluwa of Lagos, Chief Lateef Aderibigbe Ajose, and made available to New Telegraph, Oba Akiolu debunked threatening Igbos to vote for Ambode. The monarch stated that what transpired in the meeting was a cordial rela-

tionship of the traditional leaders on the continued progress and development of the state in view of the current political development in the state. The statement added that Oba Akiolu was the father of all residents in the state irrespective of tribe, religion or political persuasion, saying that the monarch only prayed and emphasised the need for all residents to, irrespective of ethnic differences, reason with him while he prayed for peace for the land of Lagos and prosperity for all its inhabitants. The statement reads: "Last Sunday, all honorary Eze Ndigbos in Lagos paid a courtesy call to HRM Oba Akiolu. At the meeting, the visitors praised the Oba for his fatherly support for and cooperation with Igbos in Lagos. They assured him

of their continued good neighbourliness with other tribes in Lagos and support everything that'll further strengthen that harmony. "Oba Akiolu on his part acknowledged the enviable performance of Governor Fashola and his contribution to the growth of investments in Lagos. He gave the assurance that he is not disturbed or angry with South-East and SouthSouth votes for President Jonathan as perceived by the Eze Ndigbos. The Oba thereafter called on the Igbo chiefs to show appreciation to Lagos State by supporting his candidate, Mr. Ambode for continuity of excellence as they have earlier promised." The statement added that the issue of lagoon threat came up during the traditional breaking

of kolas, alligator pepper and bitter kola and pouring of liberation on the ground, adding that it was pronounced that whoever works against the interest of peaceful co-existence of Lagos would end up in the lagoon, according to the tradition. "He assured them of his continued support and assistance where needed and the meeting ended with the traditional breaking of kolas, alligator pepper, and bitter kola and pouring of liberation on the ground. It was within this context that that the tradition of Lagos with regard to the lagoon came up. It was noted that whoever works against the throne and the interest and peaceful coexistence of Lagos would end up in the lagoon as per tradition. "Oba Akiolu stated fur-

ther that the Igbo people have not betrayed the throne. Lagos has also not betrayed the Igbo people. Lagos has done so much to make the Igbos comfortable and to prosper. For this, we expect reciprocal respect and understanding. The Oba of Lagos prays that the Lagoon and the throne will continue to bless and protect all those who reside and visit Lagos. "Oba Akiolu is the father of all irrespective of tribe, religion or political persuasion. In Lagos, we have an old traditional proverb that relates to the Lagoon. The Lagoon is unique to Lagos. The proverb stresses the need for unity and understanding when you do business in an environment and in this case when you live and do business in Lagos," the statement said.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESday, APRIL 7, 2015

Travel Advisory

TUESday, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

International Flight Schedule Air France

Destination Abuja- Paris Paris-Lagos Paris-PHC PHC-Paris Paris –Abuja Lagos –Paris

Flight No. AF 513 AF 3822 AF514 AF513 AF514 AF3849

Departure 23.55hrs 10.55hrs 11:00hrs 21:20hrs 11:00hrs 23:55hrs

Arrival 6:05hrs 17:15hrs 19:15hrs 6:05hrs 17:00hrs 6:20hrs

Amsterdam-Lagos Lagos-Amsterdam

KL587 KL588

13:15hrs 23:05hrs

20:00hrs 05:50hrs

KLM

ARIK AIRLINES

Lagos-London London-Lagos Lagos-New York

W3 101 W3 102 W3 107 (Mon, Wed , Fri) New York-Lagos W3 108 (Tues,Thurs, Fri) Lagos-Johannesburg W3 103 Johannesburg-Lagos W3 104 Lagos-Douala - (Tues, Wed ,Thur) Douala-Lagos - (Tues, Wed, Thur) Lagos-Accra Accra-Lagos

Abuja-Accra Accra-Abuja Lagos-Freetown Freetown-Lagos Lagos-Banjul Banjul-Lagos Lagos-Dakar Dakar-Lagos

-(Tue, Thur, Sat, Sun) -(Mon, Wed, Fri) -(Daily) - (Wed, Fri, Sun) -(Wed, Fri, Sun) -(Wed, Fri, Sun) -(Wed, Fri, Sun) -(Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri,Sat) -(Tue,Wed, Fri,Sat,Sun)

BRITISH AIRWAYS

London-Lagos Lagos-London Abuja-London Abuja-London

07:00hrs 20:05hrs 20:10hrs 11:45hrs

Lagos-Cairo Cairo-Lagos

MS 876 MS 875

14:25hrs 08:30hrs

22:20hrs 13:30hrs

EGYPT AIR

KENYA AIRWAYS

16:00hrs

Lagos-Kigali

11:15hrs

16:45hrs

10:45hrs 09:35hrs 11:10hrs 13:25hrs 07:20hrs 17:00hrs 08:05hrs 13:35hrs 18:00hrs

hrs 14:44hrs hrs hrs hrs hrs hrs hrs hrs

AWB 201 (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun) AWB 202 (Tue, Thur, Sat, Sun)

14:00hrs

17:30hrs

22:35hrs 15:10hrs

06:00hrs 21:20hrs

17:00hrs 06:00hrs 08:00hrs 17:00hrs 08:00hrs 15:20hrs 21:00hrs

hrs hrs hrs hrs hrs hrs hrs

01:00hrs

hrs

3:00hrs 14:00hrs

8:00hrs 19:00hrs

EK 7821 (Sun-Sat) EK 7822 EK 7831 EK 7811 EK 761

21:30hrs 14:40hrs 07:35hrs 14:20hrs 23:55hrs

07:40hrs 01:05hrs 12:50hrs 19:45hrs 10:30hrs

Lagos-Doha Flight Doha-Lagos Flight

QR 1414 (daily) QR 1415

14:55hrs 07:20hrs

23:45hrs 13:35hrs

Lagos-Atlanta Atlanta-Lagos

DL053 DL 054

22:15hrs 5:15hrs

05:32hrs 16:15hrs

Lagos-Houston Houston-Lagos

UA 143 UA 142

10:10hrs 19:10hrs

6:05hrs 15.15hrs

Lagos - Addis Ababa ET900 Addis Ababa - Lagos ET901 Abuja - Addis Ababa ET910 Addis Ababa - Abuja ET911 Enugu - Addis Ababa ET930 Addis Ababa - Enugu ET931 Kano - Addis Ababa ET930 Addis Ababa - Kano ET931

13:15hrs 09:00hrs 13:40hrs 09:40hrs 12:00hrs 09:20hrs 14:05hrs 09:20hrs

20:25hrs 12:15hr 20:10hrs 12:20hrs 20:50hrs 11:15hrs 20:50hrs 13:20hrs

Lagos-Madrid Madrid-Lagos

IB 3337 IB 3336

22:55hrs 16:00hrs

5:25+1hrs 20:20hrs

Lagos-Casablanca Casablanca-Lagos

AT738 AT 737

06:25hrs 02:15hrs

09:55hrs 6:00hrs

air maroc

20.45hrs 09:50hrs 09.20 hrs 06:30hrs

12:30hrs

Lagos-Dubai Lagos-Dubai Dubai-Lagos Dubai-Lagos Abuja-Dubai

IBERIA

Abu Dhabi-Lagos

EY 0672 (Sunday) (Monday) (Saturday) EY 955

19:35hrs 23:45hrs

MEA 571 MEA 572

ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES

Lagos- Abu Dhabi

ETIHAD AIRWAYS

12:30hrs 18:00hrs

to Lagos)

UNITED AIRLINES

17:00hrs 4:40hrs

KQ 533 KQ 534

11:55hrs 5:50hrs 14:35hrs 06:00hrs

DELTA AIRLINES

11:00hrs 22:40hrs

Lagos-Nairobi Nairobi-Lagos

17:55hrs 00:00hrs 09:00hrs 22:40hrs

QATAR AIRWAYS

VS 652 VS 651

18:30hrs 05:15hrs 05:30hrs

BA075 BA074 BA 082 BA 083

EMIRATES AIRLINES

Lagos-London London-Lagos

12:00hrs 21:30hrs 23:50hrs

Middle East Airlines (Two flights weekly (Tues & Friday)

Lebanon-Lagos Lagos-Lebanon

VIRGIN ATLANTIC

RwandAir

Kigali-Lagos

Turkish Airlines

Lagos-Istanbul Nairobi-Lagos

332 333

Air Côte d'Ivoire Lagos to Abidjan Abidjan to Lagos

HF 851 (Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sun) HF 852 (Mon,Wed, Thurs, Sat)

ASKY AIRLINES

Destination Lome to Abuja Abuja-Lome- Kinshasa Kinshasa-Abuja Abuja-Lome Lome-Lagos Lagos-Libreville Libreville-Kinshasa Kinshasa-Libreville Libreville-Lagos Lagos-Lome Lome-Lagos Lagos-Libreville Libreville-Brazaville Brazaville-Libreville Brazzaville-Lagos Lagos-Lome

10:10hrs

10:50hrs

19:20hrs

21.50hrs

Flight No. KP 032 (Tue-Fri) KP 032 ( Tue-Fri)

Departure Arrival 14:00hrs 15:55hrs 16:30hrs 18:15hrs

KP 033 (Wed-Sat) KP O33 (Wed-Sat) KP O40 (Sun-Sat) KP 040 (Sun-Sat) KP 040 (Sun-Sat) KP041 (Tue-Sat) KP 041 (Tue-Sat) KP 041 (Tue-Sat) KP O44 (Tue-Fri) KP 044 (Tue-Fri) KP 044 (Tue-Fri) KP O45 (Wed-Sat) KP 045 (Wed-Sat) KP 045 (Wed-Sat)

8:20hrs 10:35hrs 13:00hr 14:40hrs 17:00hrs 7:15hrs 9:35hrs 11:55hrs 13:10hrs 14:50hrs 17:10hrs 07:00hrs 09:20hrs 11:40hrs

10:00hrs 12:20hrs 14:00hrs 16:30hrs 18:45hrs 08:55hrs 11:25hrs 12:45hrs 14:10hrs 16:40hrs 18:50hrs 08:40hrs 11:10hrs 12:30hrs

Local FLIGHT SCHEDULE ARIK AIR

LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 07:00; 08:00; 09:00; 11:00 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 (SAT) 07:00; 09:00; 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 (SUN) 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 07:00; 09:00; 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00; 20:00 (SAT) 07:00; 09:00; 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 (SUN) 09:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 LAGOS-PORT-HARCOURT (MON-FRI) 07:00; 09:30; 11:00; 13:30; 15:00; 17:30 (SAT) 07:00; 11:00; 15:00 (SUN) 09:30; 11:00; 13:30; 15:00; 17:30 PORT-HARCOURT-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 07:30; 09:00; 11:30; 13:00; 15:30; 17:00 (SAT) 07:30; 11:30; 09:00; 13:00; 17:00 (SUN) 11:30; 13:00; 15:30; 17:00 ABUJA-PORT-HARCOURT (MON-FRI) 06:45; 10:10; 13:30; 16:50 (SAT/SUN) 06:45; 10:10; 13:30 PORT-HARCOURT-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 08:30; 11:50; 15:10; 18:30 (SAT/SUN) 08:30; 11:50; 15:10

AZMAN FLIGHT SCHEDULE

WEEKLY SCHEDULE Kano-Lagos 8:00am Lagos-Abuja 10:30am Abuja-Lagos 12:40pm

Lagos-Abuja/Kano 4:00pm Abuja-Kano 5:45pm Kaduna-Lagos 8:00am Lagos-Kan 10:10am Kano-Abuja/Lagos 12:40pm Abuja-Lagos 1:00pm Abuja-Lagos 2:40pm Lagos-Kaduna 5:00pm WEEKEND SCHEDULE SATURDAY Kano-Lagos 8:00am Lagos-Abuja 10:30am Abuja-Lagos 1:00pm Lagos-Kano 4:00pm Kaduna-Lagos 8:00am Lagos-Kano 4:00pm Sunday Kano-Lagos 8:00am Lagos-Kano 10:30am Kano-Abuja/Lagos 1:20pm Abuja-Lagos 2:40pm Lagos-Kaduna 5:00pm

FIRST NATION AIRWAYS

LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 06.50; 09:30; 11:45; 16:00 (SAT) 06:50; 11:45 (SUN) 11:45; 16:00 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 09:00; 11:30; 13:40;18:30 (SAT) 09:00; 13:40 (SUN) 13:40; 18:30 LAGOS-PORT-HARCOURT (MON-FRI) 14:45

(SAT) 16:15 (SUN) 14:45 PORT-HARCOURT-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 16:50 (SAT) 18:20 (SUN) 16:50

AEROCONTRACTORS

LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 06:50; 13:30; 16:30; 19:45 (SAT/SUN) 12:30; 16:45 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 07:30; 13:00; 19:00 (SAT) 12:30 (SUN) 15:30

MEDVIEW AIRLINES

LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 07:00; 08:50; 12:00; 15:30 (SAT) 10:00; 15:00 (SUN) 17:30; 18:30 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 09:00; 14:00, 15:00; 18:30

OVERLAND AIRWAYS LAGOS-ILORIN (MON-FRI) 07:15 LAGOS-IBADAN (MON-FRI) 7:00 IBADAN-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 08:00 IBADAN-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 16:30 ILORIN –ABUJA (MON-FRI) 08:30 ILORIN –LAGOS (MON-FRI) 17:00 ABUJA-ASABA (MON-FRI) 10:00 ASABA-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 14:15 ASABA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 11:30 LAGOS-ASABA (MON-FRI) 13:00 ABUJA-ILORIN 16:00 ABUJA-IBADAN 15:00

News

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESday, APRIL 7, 2015

Again, Lagos, FG may clash over taxation Muritala Ayinla

ndications yesterday emerged that the Lagos State Government may soon engage the Federal Government in another legal battle over “illegal” collection of charges from residents of Victoria Island and Ikoyi by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA). The State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye, who made the disclosure yesterday, said that property owners, who were served with demand notices by NIWA for payments in respect of “Right of Way” and “regularisation exercise” in the areas had been complaining about the legality of the charges. He also alleged that the property owners were also being asked to pay various sums of money as processing fee, inspection fee, monitoring fee, shore utilisation fee, etc. and to grant NIWA’s field officers access to their private properties for purposes of measuring the shoreline for accurate assessment of NIWA tariff. According to Ipaye, "Officials of Lagos State Government have been inundated with calls and petitions from concerned

property owners in the Ikoyi and Victoria Island areas of the state who were served with demand notices by NIWA for payments in respect of NIWA’s supposed Right of Way and regularisation exercise.” The commissioner, however, described the action of NIWA as illegal, saying that the duties and functions of NIWA did not

extend to the assessment, regulation or taxation of properties. "We have carefully reviewed the applicable legislation setting up NIWA and it is our considered view that its functions do not extend to the assessment, regulation or taxation of properties that are not obstructing any declared waterways.

"Constitutionally, the power to assess privately owned houses or tenements for rates is vested in Local Government Authorities by virtue of the Fourth Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Local Government Councils in Lagos State have neither delegated this power to NIWA nor

appointed NIWA to act for them in this regard. “Furthermore, it is incontrovertible that, under the Land Use Act, all land comprised in the territory of each state is vested solely in the state governor," Ipaye noted. The commissioner explained that the Lands (Title Vesting) Decree, which purported to vest

titles of all land within the 100 metres limit of the 1967 shoreline and all land reclaimed near the lagoon, sea or ocean in the Federal Government has been invalidated by a court of competent jurisdiction since 2000. He added: "In effect, that obnoxious act has ceased to be part of Nigerian Law."

L-R: Chairman, Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Tunji Shelle; former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Chief Bode George and former Minister of Communications, Major General Tajudeen Olarewaju (rtd), at a press conference in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

‘No going back on card readers on April 11' PenCom moves to frustrate states' access to bonds CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

National Assembly elections. INEC, in statement by the Secretary to the Commission, Mrs. Augusta C. Ogakwu, dated April 2nd and made available to New Telegraph yesterday, said the provision of the guidelines for the conduct of the 2015 general elections which outlined what is to be done if a Card Reader fails and cannot be replaced by the Commission within a specified time frame is clear. According to her, the relaxation of the guideline on March 28 elections was only with respect to the Presidential and National Assembly elections held on that date. "The commission has reviewed the operation of the Card Reader in the 28th March elections, identified the challenges and has taken adequate measures to address them," Ogakwu stated. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is against the use of card reader in the conduct of the election. In the March 28 presidential election, President Goodluck Jonathan was among government officials whose biometrics were rejected by the card readers, forcing INEC to direct that manual ac-

creditation be used in some states. Meanwhile, the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel any governorship or State House of Assembly election conducted on April 11 without the use of Card Reader. The National Publicity Secretary of the CNPP, Mr. Osita Okechukwu made the call in a statement issued yesterday in Abuja. According to Okechukwu, a repeat of what happened at the Presidential and National Assembly elections conducted on March 28 should not be allowed. He alleged that the March 28 elections witnessed irregularities as a result of INEC's directives to use an alternative means of accreditation in case the card reader machine failed. Okechukwu said: "We salute INEC for insisting on the imperative of the use of the Card Reader for the April 12 gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections. "In other words, INEC has withdrawn the guideline which it issued on March 28, 2015 in respect of the Presidential and Na-

tional Assembly elections held on that date; which gave room for padding of votes in certain states that nearly marred the peaceful elections. "It is our considered view that Card Reader is an antidote to ballot box stuffing, ballot box snatching and padding of votes; hence ultimate reduction of electoral malpractices and all manner of irregularities. "On this count, we call on our member political parties to instruct their candidates to place the collective interest of our dear nation above personal political survival by using and relying only on the Card Reader. "Accordingly, CNPP calls on INEC, as a matter of urgent national importance, to rectify and take adequate measures to plug all the identified challenges and malfunctions of the Card Reader device, which featured on March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections. "Finally, INEC should take urgent steps without fear or favour to cancel any election conducted without the use of the Card Reader for its potential danger as evidenced during the presidential and National Assembly elections."

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

other than to frustrate their chances of accessing bonds in future. He said: “Unlike the private sector where the law can fully be applied to penalise the defaulters, the same cannot be said of the states. Although it is a law meant to be obeyed by all, the system of government operated in this country, where states can take independent decisions, makes it difficult to hold them accountable in this regard.” Available records show that the total pension fund assets as at January 31, 2014 stood at 4.61 trillion and currently, allowable instruments permissible for investment by the Pension Act include quoted equities (ordinary shares, global depository receipts); Federal Government securities (FGN Bonds and Treasury Bills); state/local government bonds; corporate debt securities (such as bonds, asset/mortgage backed securities etc.); money market instruments; open/ closed-end funds; and real estate investments; Infrastructure bonds and funds; and private equity funds. About N2.7 trillion out of the N4.21 trillion pensions fund assets has been invested in FGN Securities as at March 31, 2014 by PFAs, representing 63.39 per cent investment of the fund.

The PFAs also invested N602 billion in shares on the Nigerian Stock Exchange within the same period. This represents a 14.3 per cent investment of the fund. The bond market, which is regulated by SEC, has in recent time become a source of fund mobilisation for most state governments for capital projects and in some cases to satisfy their commitments. At the moment, about 16 states are groaning under bond obligation amounting to over N500 billion. Available records at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) showed that as at the end of 2013, Kogi had accessed N5 billion bond while Lagos State raised a total of N187 billion. The figures also show that Osun State had raised N30 billion including a N11.4 billion sukuk. Others include: Kwara – N17 billion, Niger – N15 billion, Kaduna – N8.5 billion, Rivers – N250 billion, Gombe – N20 billion and Edo – N25 billion. Benue, Ebonyi, Ondo, Ekiti, Bayelsa, Imo and Delta states have also raised N13 billion, N16.5 billion, N27 billion, N25 billion N50 billion, N18.5 billion and N50 billion respectively. Even within three weeks to his departure from the Enugu State Government House, Governor Sullivan Chime requested

to access N11 billion from the capital market but was denied by the state’s House of Assembly. The source said: “What the commission does for the sake of the workers is to apply moral persuasion to get the state government key into the scheme. Although the law makes it compulsory, there is a limit to which we can put pressure on the state government to comply because of the federal system of government. “However, if all options to get them to key in fail, we may have to work out a mechanism to deny them access to bonds especially now that the pension assets is heavily invested there and the fact that the bond instrument is under the control of a Federal Government agency.” Giving an insight into the rush to the capital market for bonds by the state governments, the Kwara State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Demola Banu, said that there was a looming nationwide financial crisis as a result of the dwindling revenue from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC). According to him, many states and local government areas in the country are insolvent because of the dwindling federal allocation.

News

TUESday, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Anenih extols Jonathan's selflessness, tasks Buhari Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

hairman, Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Tony Anenih, has commended the statesmanship of President Goodluck Jonathan in conceding defeat in the March 28 presidential election. Anenih urged aggrieved members of the party to emulate the president and work for the success of the party in Saturday's elections. In a statement yesterday, Anenih said by conceding victory, President Jonathan has made an indelible mark on the sand of time. He also congratulated General Muhammadu Buhari on his victory at the poll and hoped that his administration would take Nigeria to greater heights. His words: “A keenly contested presidential election, which many predicted would spell doom for Nigeria, has ended, gloriously, with everyone a winner. “I congratulate the president-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, on his victory. Nigerians are

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He said President Jonathan has worked selflessly to deepen democracy in Nigeria, noting that his consistent advocacy of the rights of the people to freely choose their leaders had earlier yielded free, fair and credible elections in some states of the federation. "Now, a peaceful transition is expected to follow after the general elections. “The 2015 presidential election, in which the in-

cumbent president lost to the opposition, has become a source of pride to Nigeria. It has portrayed to the world that democracy in Nigeria compares to the best anywhere," he said. Anenih commended the General Abdulsalami Abubakar-led Peace Committee for its moral advocacy that culminated in the violence-free poll. “I am, also, happy that the presidential election

has put a lie to the doomsday sayers. We have gone through the most critical of the elections and our country is at peace. Glory be to God! “I congratulate all Nigerians on the success of the presidential and National Assembly elections and urge all and sundry to participate in the governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections, with the same zeal and patriotism.

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“More importantly, while there are genuine reasons to disagree with certain aspects of the conduct and outcome of the Presidential and National Assembly elections, I urge all those who may still be aggrieved, to emulate the magnanimity and selflessness of President Jonathan, so that our country may enjoy peace, which is a prerequisite of our march to greatness and prosperity.”

L-R: Former Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Tunde Lemo; Welfare Administration Services, Apostolic Faith Church, Rev. James Olaleye; former Head, Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan and District Superintendent, Apostolic Faith Church, Rev. Emmanuel Adeniran, during the Easter concert in Lagos...on Sunday.

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expecting great things from him; it is my hope that he will take this great country to greater heights in the journey towards our manifest destiny.” The PDP BoT chairman noted that by conceding victory even before the official declaration of results was done, President Jonathan has made an indelible mark on the sands of time. "History will be very kind to him," he added.

PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

PDP, Fashola, George, Ambode, Ohanaeze, church react CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

anteed under the constitution. Executive Secretary of CCFN, Rev. Fr. Evaristus Bassey, said Akiolu's comments amounted to intimidation of Nigerian citizens resident in Lagos. "We are totally shocked to read about the threat handed down by Oba Akiolu to the Igbos in Lagos. While it is understandable that a royal father would want his wishes to be carried out, we are deeply concerned that the royal father is missing the point that Nigeria is a republic and a democracy and not a monarchy.” The group called on the Oba to withdraw his curse and rather appeal to the people to support his candidate (Ambode) as such a threat may amount to playing God and dragging the traditional stool into the political arena. Expressing distaste over the Oba’s comment, Kissinger Ikeokwu, a lawyer and activist, maintained that Akiolu should be held responsible for any untoward fallout of

the governorship election in Lagos. Ikeokwu said the Oba owed the Igbo nation an apology for his threat against its people. His words: "The misguided statement credited to the Oba of Lagos in this age of our national life is unfortunate. This further reinforces the position that Nigeria has not come of age. We condemn the statement in its entirety and demand an unreserved apology from the Oba. No people must be subjected to a second class status in Nigeria, no matter the place they decide to reside or do business." President, Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Uche Wisdom Durueke, described Akiolu’s threat as an “unprecedented misfortune.” Durueke said: "I doubt if the Oba who happens to be a retired police officer would say such a thing but it would be unfortunate if he did. The Igbo in Lagos should nevertheless go about their lawful duties and be prepared to exercise their franchise with-

out fear. They must also endeavour on Election Day not to do anything in violation of the law. If they vote according to the guidelines, the chances of violence and intimidation becomes very remote." Former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Chief Olabode George, also castigated the monarch for playing ethnic politics. Speaking at a press conference yesterday in Lagos, George noted that he was shocked with the utterances of the respected monarch, noting that the Oba as the father of all has no business dabbling into politics. “I was shell shocked when I heard the comments from my friend. It was an empty threat and our brothers should not mind him. "I am advising him to back-off and apologise to Igbos in Lagos. Nobody can threaten them. This is uncalled for. We are calling on the non-indigenes, particularly Igbos, to come out en masse and vote for the PDP in the April 11 governorship and state

assembly elections and we want to assure them of maximum safety because nobody can decree their death.” In the same vein, a coalition of Yoruba groups, at a press conference addressed by the spokesman of pan Yoruba group, Afenifere, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, noted that with the comments, Oba Akiolu had crossed the "line of royal decency." While urging non-indigenes in the state to remain calm, the coalition stated that “the conduct of Oba Akiolu is totally strange to Yoruba culture and a negation of our democratic character as a people.” "We respect the right of Oba Akiolu to drop the crown at Iga and become director of mobilisation for the leader of his party if he so desires; but we detest his hiding behind the throne and fan the embers of disunity.” Similarly, the PDP House of Representatives member-elect for the Oshodi-Isolo constituency II, Mr. Tony Nwulu, said Igbos in Lagos won’t be deterred in following their conviction

despite the utterances of threat from the traditional institution in Lagos. Another PDP Rep-elect in Lagos, Barrister Rita Odinchinma, cautioned Oba Akiolu against abusing his traditional throne. Meanwhile, Governor Babatunde Fashola and Lagos APC governorship candidate, Ambode, have assured that Lagos will remain home to all. The duo, who spoke at separate fora yesterday, said every Lagosian irrespective of tribal or religious leanings will be treated fairly in Lagos. According to Fashola, “Lagos belongs to us all and as such we are duty bound to see it delivered into the hands of able leaders.” Also, Ambode said: "Every group in Lagos will be safe in my hands as governor. I will not discriminate against any religious or ethnic group. It is our Lagos and we must build it together… I want to build on the foundation of unity, peace and progress and development laid by my predecessors.”

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

News

NATIONAL

Why Associated Airline crash report is not ready, by AIB Wole Shadare

he Commissioner, Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB), Dr. Felix Abali, has attributed the inability of pathologists and coroners to submit their final reports on the October 4, 2013 Associated Airline’s plane crash in Lagos as reason the accident investigators are yet to make public its final report on the accident. He, however, noted that air transportation is still the safest means of transportation, despite recent accidents in the industry, which he said has led to the loss of hundreds of lives. Speaking at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, yesterday, Abali said that if the challenges

associated with pathologists and coroners handling the Associated plane crash, which claimed no fewer than 16 out of the 20 souls onboard had been resolved, AIB would have long ago released its final report on the crash. He noted that it would be unprofessional for the agency to release the final report without looking critically at the inputs of pathologists and coroners, but assured that such challenges would be resolved very soon. He disclosed that the AIB was currently work-

ing with a major pathologist in the country, who he said had lots of connections with some of the hospitals in different states across the nation. According to him: “That takes us back to the problems we are having with coroners and pathologists. We are actually still waiting for their reports. Accident as you know could be caused by a lot of factors. Assuming that one of the crew members was drunk, how do you determine this? It is through pathological reports that you

can know the true state of health of such crew member”. “If we don’t have such information, then, the report is incomplete. We cannot go and publish something and leave out some aspects. What we have been doing is that we try to come to an understanding with them. We have been trying to write a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with them. He said as a matter of fact, the agency just started working with one of the pathologists who basically has a lot of con-

nections with some of the hospitals in different states, adding that these hospitals would work with individual who report to them, hinting, “ If that works, I think the situation would be alleviated.” The AIB boss, who reiterated that the airspace was safe, insisted that the sector was safe for flying despite some accidents in recent time. He further disclosed that accident could not be eradicated in the industry; rather, it could be reduced to the barest minimum. “Aviation industry

is safe globally and will always be safe. Till now, except the one that happened over Ukraine that the people know the cause of it, the other two or three, we don’t know the causes yet and I think in accident investigation, it is not always right to speculate. It doesn’t do the industry any good and it will not enhance safety in the system. “Until the black boxes are discovered and the true causes of the accidents are known, we won’t be able to comment much on them.

Buhari’s wife promises better deal for women

igeria's in-coming First Lady, Mrs Aisha Buhari, said women would enjoy a better deal under the President-elect, Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, as soon as he was inaugurated. This was conveyed in an Easter Message released in Abuja yesterday by Malam Garba Shehu, Director, Media and Publicity, APC Presidential Campaign Organisation. According to the message, the wife of the president-elect assured Nigerian women that they would witness a better deal when her husband formally takes office on May 29. It said: ''I wish Christian women the abundant blessings of the Easter celebration. “Nigerian women are among the hardest working social groups, but have remained economically and politically marginalised. “Under my husband's government, honest labour and hard work would be adequately rewarded, while corruption would be fought aggressively.'' In it, she advised Nigerian women not to despair as the Buhari-led administration would spare no efforts to promote and protect their welfare.

Picnickers during Easter celebration at the Alpha Beach, Lekki, Ajah, Lagos…yesterday.

24 killed as Boko Haram attacks Borno village Ahmed Miringa MAIDUGURI

o fewer than 24 persons were killed and several others injured when Boko Haram insurgents invaded Kwajaffa village of Hawul Local Government Area of Borno State. Kwajafa, which is about 35 kilometres away from Biu and 220 kilometres from Maiduguri has witnessed two major attacks by Boko Haram in the past; a development

which forced many residents to flee the town. Security sources from Biu town said the insurgents, who were many in number on motorcycles, entered the town and started shooting sporadically and setting houses ablaze. A resident of the area, who fled to Biu town, told our correspondent on telephone that the insurgents, who came in Volkswagen Golf Cars and motorcyles on Sunday evening, gathered residents together, claiming they came to

preach. They later started shooting sporadically in the air, killing 24 people, before setting houses and shops ablaze. He said: "The insurgents opened fire on the people as soon as they gathered in an open place,". “The insurgents also set ablaze some residents praying in a mosque. Many of the residents who could not escape when Boko Haram fired into the gathering were affected, the source claimed. A source at the General Hospital, Biu said some injured persons are currently receiving treatment at the hospital, while others were also treated in other health facilities in Kwajafa.

Group tasks president-elect on economy, others Tony Anichebe UYO

g roup, Buhari Friends Organization Network (BFON) has commended millions of Nigerians, who stood

by the voice of reason to vote President Mohammadu Buhari to victory against all the campaigns of hate. The group said that their love and trust for him would not be betrayed. The group, which

worked for the election of Mohammadu Buhari, said it would continue to ensure the success of Buhari’s administration in the years heads. Speaking during a media chat with correspondents in Uyo, the Akwa

Ibom state capital yesterday, the National Coordinator of the group, Saint Athanasius Okon, congratulated the Nigerian electorate who defiled all odds to vote Buhari in the March 28th presidential election.

PHOTOS: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

Abia North: INEC official disassociates self from result

he Returning Officer (RO) for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abia North Senatorial District in the March 28 polls, Ihekweaba Chukwugoziem, has disassociated himself from any manipulated result in the senatorial election from the area. Chukwugoziem, who swore to an affidavit of fact at the Federal High Court, Umuahia, said that as the RO for Abia North, he never announced anybody as the winner of the election due to irregularities discovered in many of the results that came from the local governments. He deposed that based on the said irregularities, the Resident Electoral Commissioner

(REC) for Abia State, set up a Committee which discovered irregularities in the results submitted from the local governments. According to him, “Up and until the evening of April 1, 2015, the anomalies and irregularities were still being unearthed and so none of the candidates could be returned as the winner of the election as the committee had not concluded the job exercise and collation of the results not yet done. “That I have not collated the results and have not declared any of the candidates winner and have not returned any of them as the winner of the election, in view of the issues that are yet to be resolved.”

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TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Impeachment: PDP takes over Ekiti Assembly complex Adesina Wahab ADO-EKITI

s a result of the alleged service of a Notice of Impeachment on Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, by 19 All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmakers in the Ekti State House of Assembly, some members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday laid siege to the entrance of the House of Assembly Complex. Notable members of

the PDP, who were at the gathering included the Deputy Governor, Dr Kolapo Olusola; former Speaker, House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Tunji Odeyemi; Special Assistant to the Governor on Information, Mr Lanre Ogunsuyi; his colleague in the Public Communications, Lere Olayinka, among others. They blocked the popular Secretariat-Assembly Road named after the late Deputy Speaker, Hon. Saliu Adeoti and other adjoining roads to prevent the 19 lawmak-

ers from entering the Assembly. Nine Hilux Vans belonging to the police and the Department of State Security Service, carrying heavily armed personnel were stationed at the two entrances of the Assembly Complex. Although, the PDP members conducted themselves in a peaceful manner, as they danced to various songs, they were restricted by security agencies. Some of them sat quietly under the canopies, erected in front of the

old Assembly complex, which was just two poles away from the new complex. Briefing newsmen on their mission, Ogunsuyi said the Omirin-led lawmakers erred in law by claiming that they had sent a notice of impeachment to the governor, saying it was a complete gaffe for Omirin to be claiming speakership while also challenging his impeachment in the court of law. He said: “The new Nigeria which President Goodluck Jonathan and Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu

L-R: Wife of the former Governor of Ogun State, Mrs. Olufunke Daniel; Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate, Mr. Jimi Agbaje and former Governor of Ogun State, Gbenga Daniel, at the 59th birthday anniversary of the governor, in Lagos...yesterday.

Buhari campaigned for is the one that would respect the Rule of Law. With this convergence, you can see that the people are standing by their governor. They are ready to defend their mandate. “Nobody asked Omirin and other APC lawmakers not to come to the Assembly. They only decided to abdicate their duties since last year November 17. Impeachment procedure does not start and end with Assembly alone. The judiciary is involved, so this plan is highly condemnable. Meanwhile, the APC lawmakers have asked Fayose to stop stoking violence in the state over his impeachment notice. They said instigating crisis was not the way to go in defending the removal notice served him by the Assembly. Reacting to violent attacks on residents and passersby in the premises of the House of Assembly by suspected PDP thugs yesterday, the lawmakers said resorting to violence against Ekiti people was compounding his problems. In a statement by the media aide to Omirin, Wole Olujobi, the lawmakers said violence would not solve the burden of constitutional breaches that the governor had placed on himself. They frowned at the

invasion of the Assembly by suspected PDP thugs, wondering why a governor that had questions to answer on legal matters would get himself involved in other illegal matters such as the invasion of the Assembly by thugs to cause public disorder. The statement said: "It is shocking that the governor would start any act of illegality bordering on public disorder when he is having a load of illegal acts on his head upon which he is facing removal from office. Meanwhile the PDP has described the impeachment notice served on Fayose, as capable of truncating the democratic process. The party, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, noted that the emerging political scenario in the state few days before the governorship and House of Assembly elections are threats to democracy in the country and called on all Nigerians to stand up against such anti-democratic tendencies. "The senseless and unpatriotic impeachment move against Governor Ayo Fayose by out-going APC state legislators as a height of unruliness that should not be accommodated," the statement noted.

APC, PDP bicker over alleged assassination attempt on Abe, CTC boss Emmanuel Masha and Johnchuks Onuanyim

he Rivers State chapters of the All Progressives Congress, APC and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, are at loggerheads over an alleged assassination attempt on Senator Magnus Abe, by alleged thugs working for the PDP. While the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Gokana Local Government Area, Kadilo Kabari, who equally escaped a mob action, has alleged that Abe narrowly escaped death, the PDP chairman,

Felix Obuah dismissed the allegation, saying that Abe was looking for sympathy. Kabari said that he and Abe were attacked by PDP members who pretended to be officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, but narrowly escaped death. He said: “Firstly, I give thanks to the Most High God that I am alive today and being discharged from the hospital following a mob attack on our Senator and I, by PDP members in INEC cloth, right in the premises of the Nigerian Police, Divisional Headquarters, Kpor. “Our Distinguished

Senator Magnus Abe was not spared of the onslaught as in a bid to rescue me, he received punches and pummelling by those who posed as electoral officers and raped our democracy on the very altar of justice in a compound that houses the magistrate's court and the police in Gokana”. But the PDP chairman, said that there was no time that Abe and Kadillo were attacked, noting that Abe, who had earlier called on Prof. Attahiru Jega to redeploy the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC was looking for somebody to help the APC rig

the election. Meanwhile, the APC has called on the International and local observers to intervene in the political crises in Rivers State to prevent a total breakdown of law and order. The APC National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, made the call on behalf of the party at a press briefing in Abuja. According to Mohammed, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Rivers State Police Command were the two institutions of government being used by the Peoples Democratic

Party ( PDP) against members of the APC in the state. The APC spokespersons stated that the state chapter of the party had sent a petition to the INEC on the activities of the Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state. Recounting the activities of the PDP against the APC in the state, Mohammed said, "Last week, nine members of our party were killed in cold blood, while many others were injured, when armed PDP thugs invaded Obrikom and Obor communities in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government of Rivers

State. These same thugs set ablaze the residence of Vincent Ogbagu, our candidate for the House of Assembly elections. "Dozens of our members have been arrested on frivolous charges, just to put them away. At least, four persons were arrested just because they defected to our party. "APC members have been subjected to persistent harassment and intimidation across the state, using the Police in Rivers and the Zone 6 in Calabar. Over 150 prominent members have been victims of this unprovoked persecution."

Navy arrests seven sea pirates Buhari's victory, a symbol of unity, says APC Ireland chapter Emmanuel Masha PORT HARCOURT

he Nigerian Navy T Forwarding Operating Base (FOB) in Bonny, Rivers State, has arrested seven men suspected to be sea pirates. The navy said that the suspected sea pirates had been terrorizing the Bonny-Port Harcourt waterways, noting that the

suspects were arrested while robbing the crew of a vessel, MT Annah. The Base Commanding Officer, Navy Captain Hassan Dogari, while handing over the suspects to the Nigeria Police, in Bonny, noted that two AK 47 rifles, 90 rounds of ammunition, nine GSM phones and the sum of N5,800 were recovered from the suspects.

Mojeed Alabi

he Republic of Ireland chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has described the victory of the party at the poll as the realisation of the vision of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who it claimed once dreamt of a Nigeria where people

regardless of ethnicity, religion or class would "unite and kick against rigging, corruption and tyranny." In its congratulatory message to the party and the President-elect, General Mohammadu Buhari, and signed by its Chairman, Prince Adegboyega Adefioye, it assured the new re-

gime of unalloyed support and prayers, saying the task of rebuilding the country was a heavy one requiring the assemblage of Nigeria's best brains. It also commended the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega for being "calm,

sagacious, fair and unruffled in the face of palpable intimidation and threats, throughout the electoral process." The group, therefore, wished the new administration the best as it settles down to accomplish what it described as the revolutionary and laudable programmes of APC at the centre.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESday, APRIL 7, 2015

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Metro

Why I stole from God’s house –Pastor

Kolawole

Aderanti

ROBBING GOD A cleric says he has no qualms stealing from places of worship because God knows he has financial challenges John Edu

pastor, arrested for breaking into churches to steal musical instruments, said he decided to embrace crime because he knew that God would understand. The suspect, Pastor Tope Kolawole, said he never wanted to embrace robbery but had

struggled within himself about stealing from churches. According to him, he told himself that he was an ordained pastor, but another voice asked him to think of survival first. Kolawole, however, decided to break into churches to steal musical instruments after one of his friends told him to do so. He said: “I told my friend that I could not do what he asked me to do, especially since it involved going into churches to commit this evil act. I also reminded some of them that I’m an ordained pastor. But my friends asked me what that had to do with achieving my dreams in life. “One of them also said that if I should steal from God’s

house, God would understand that my problems led me into the act. When I got back home, I thought of it and decided to give it a trial.” The police said Kolawole was arrested by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Ikeja, Lagos Police Command Police on March 25. The downfall of the suspect started after the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Kayode Aderanti, received information that some men, suspected to be robbers, were breaking into church premises around Shogunle. Aderanti then directed the Officer in Charge of SARS, SP Abba Kyari, to lead a team of policemen to the scene. The suspect was caught on the

premises of Alive International Ministry at Iyana-Ipaja area of Lagos. He was found in possession of some musical instruments, among them one power amplifier, two musical mixers, one keyboard, one stabiliser, two DVD players, and one 32 inches Samsung Plasma TV. The stolen items had been recovered and returned to the church. Investigators have also discovered that Kolawole had once been arrested and remanded in Badagry Prison in 2014. According to him, he was arrested by the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) for unlawfully hawking on the highway. The suspect said he spent a month in prison.

Kolawole added that he went into crime because of frustration. He said: “I went into breaking and stealing from churches after I had nothing to do or anywhere to source money after I left prison. I had a diploma as a pastor from Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) School of Theology in 2008 after which I was transferred to a branch of CAC, Oke-Iyanu at Alakia, Ibadan, to practice as a pastor for three months.” Kolawole said that some of his friends, who he met when he was selling on the highway, introduced him to breaking and entering into churches. He said: “I began hawking phone accessories along the road at Oshodi where I met some boys whose leader was called Alausa. They are into the business of buying and selling musical instruments. “After my release, I went back to Oshodi to see some of them. It was then that Alausa, who had been assisting me financially, introduced me to the business.” The suspect recalled his second operation last year. He went to a church at AbuleEgba area, where he stole a keyboard, two mixers and an amplifier. He also said that he went to another church in Sango-Ota, where he carted away a mixer and a keyboard. The fourth and fifth churches were located at Ojota and Oregun respectively. Kolawole was arrested during his last operation at Alive International Ministry at Iyana Ipaja. He said: “I only break into churches whenever I’m broke. I didn’t want to depend on my wife who is a nurse. I used to attend The Lords Chosen Charismatic Church, but I left when my life did not have any meaning. “I had to move to the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). I once met a woman whose daughter was sick at the Holy Ghost Service. I prayed for the girl and she was healed.”

Five burnt in Delta auto crash Dominic Adewole ASABA

A ABIODUN BELLO FEATURES Editor

abiodun.bello@newtelegraphonline.com

t least five persons were feared dead in a motor accident on Kwale-Asaba Expressway in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State. The victims were burnt in the accident on the road which leads to Ughelli, Warri and through the East-West Road to Bayelsa and River states. Besides the dead, two persons sustained serious injuries

and are now recuperating at the Kwale General Hospital. The victims were said to be traveling home for the Easter festivity when they met their untimely death at the weekend. The accident involved a Toyota Camry and a Volkswagen Jetta. It was gathered that one of the tyres of one of cars burst while on speed which made the driver to lose control of the car. A witness said: “Immediately one of the front tyres burst, the car collided with the other car coming from the opposite di-

rection. Both cars went up in flames.” A member of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) rescuing team at their Sector Command in Asaba yesterday said before they got to the scene, the victims had burnt beyond recognition. He said: “The accident occurred as a result of a burst tyre and over-speeding. We have advised motorists to keep to speed limit so that they will be able to control their cars when accident situation occurs.”

File picture of an accident scene

Metro 11

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

‘I’ve no regret trafficking drugs’ Juliana Francis

suspected drug trafficker, Kelvin Okoye, arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), stunned his interrogators when he said he did not regret his action. The 37-year-old suspect said that anybody who was as frustrated as he was would have done the same thing he did. He said: “I was frustrated. When you are frustrated, you can do anything. I took a risk but I was not lucky. Life is about taking risk. It is either you win or you lose. “I have worked and suffered as a casual labourer in Doha for two years and I was desperate to change my status.” A mother of three, Gladys Nwaokolo, 32, who was arrested for attempting to smuggle drugs to Spain, said she was sorry she might not see her kids for a long time because of her arrest. The suspect said all she wanted was to make quick money and return home to her kids, but luck was against her. The lady, who said she used to buy and sell clothes, added: “I have lived in Spain for about a decade. I came back to Nigeria because of financial hardship. I love to go back to Spain and I do not have enough money. This was how I found myself in drug trafficking. “The most painful aspect of my arrest is that I told a friend to look after my children for a few days. By my calculation, I thought I could quickly smuggle the drugs to Spain

Nwaokolo with parcels of cocaine

Okoye

and return within one week. I felt so bad when the drug was detected at the airport.” Aside from Okoye and Nwaokolo, four other suspects were arrested by the NDLEA at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos with 16.51kg of narcotics. The other suspects are Chidiebere Nwodo, Nicholas Ikebalum, Michael Madu and Obiora Nnadobe. The Head, Media and Publicity, NDLEA, Mitchel Ofoyeju, said the drugs included 10.27kg of cannabis, 1.31kg of methamphetamine and 4.93kg of cocaine. He said: “Two of the drug suspects were bringing cocaine from Brazil, two others were taking methamphetamine to Tanzania and South Africa. Another was taking cannabis to Doha, Qatar, while Nwaokolo, the only female among them, was going to Madrid, Spain with cocaine.” The NDLEA Commander at the Lagos airport, Mr Hamza Umar, explained that

one of the suspects was found with liquid cocaine in body cream while another excreted wraps of cocaine aboard the aircraft. He said: “We arrested six suspected drug traffickers with drugs weighing 16.51kg, including liquid cocaine. Chidiebere Nwodo was found with 3.260kg of liquid cocaine concealed in body cream from Brazil. Ikebalum was also arrested. He excreted 36 wraps of cocaine weighing 570 grams on board the aircraft. Madu was caught with 975 grams of methamphetamine while going to Tanzania. Attempt by Nnadobe to smuggle 335 grams of methamphetamine to South Africa failed. Okoye was found smuggling 10.27kg of cannabis to Doha while Nwaokolo was caught exporting 1.670kg of cocaine to Madrid.” Madu, 54, a father of four, described himself as a novice in drug trafficking. He said: “I own a boutique in Nairobi, Kenya. My friend lured me into drug trafficking. This is my first time and

I was arrested due to my inexperience. I regret my action.” Ikebalum, 31, said that his problem started when he excreted cocaine while on the flight. He said: “I lost my father at the age of five and I had since then been responsible for my upkeep. Last year, I struggled to travel to Brazil hoping that I would get a good job. In fact, life has been difficult. “I later met a Brazilian who decided to assist me. He gave me cocaine and paid for my ticket to Nigeria. He promised to pay me N1 million to start any business of my choice. “I was happy to return home and start up a business with the money he would pay me but my problem began when I excreted the drugs while on the flight. At the arrival hall, NDLEA detected the drugs in my luggage.” Nnadobe, 32, said that a friend gave him a bag of foodstuff to send to South Africa, adding that he was arrested following the discovery of the drugs in the bag. He said: “A friend gave me a bag to send to South Africa. When I got to the airport, 11 sachets of methamphetamine were found inside the foodstuff. That was how I got involved. Now I’m suffering alone while my friend is on the run.” Nwodo, 28, said that he resorted to drug trafficking after he lost his shop to an inferno. He said: “I used to sell clothes but I lost my goods in a fire incident. This was what led me into drug trafficking. I was given liquid cocaine inside body cream and they promised to pay me N500,000 to mitigate my suffering.”

91 suspected criminals held in Ondo

Some of the suspects

Babatope Okeowo Akure

olice in Ondo State yesterday paraded 91 suspected criminals, among them robbers who killed seven policemen during an attack at Owo in Owo Local Government Area.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr Isaac Eke, who paraded them before journalists, said seven of the suspected robbers were part of those who attacked four banks in Owo penultimate Thursday, killed seven policemen, two bank officials and 13 other civilians.

Eke said the fleeing armed robbery suspects were arrested by a combined team of policemen drawn from Ondo, Edo and military personnel. According to him, the suspects engaged the security personnel in a gun duel. He said while his men were pursuing the suspects, the Edo State policemen blocked them. In a big haul, Eke said 12,000 rounds of ammunition, six assault rifles, 17AK rifles, three riot guns, one revolver pistol, one chief revolver pistol, 11 dynamites and 142 magazines were recovered from them. Others, he said, were two sub-machine guns, six Beretta rifles, two scorpion guns, three large rifles, three Dane guns, Tarakov rifle and three pump action guns. Eke said N9.3 million cash, a pair of police uniform, 33 canisters of tear gas, police steel helmets and 13 vehicles used for the operation were also recovered from the suspected armed robbers.

The arms, the police boss said, were parts of the arms stolen from Ikare-Akoko and Owo police stations when the daredevil armed robbers struck last year and penultimate Thursday. Aside the armed robbery suspects, Eke said seven suspected pirates were arrested at Ajapa in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of the state while a cache of weapons was recovered from them. The commissioner, who said the suspected pirates were arrested with the help of Gallery Security Service and military men, added that 16 of the unrepentant militants were killed in a gun battle with the security personnel last week. According to him, heavily armed hoodlums in military uniform suspected to have been led by General Ibori, an unrepentant militant, invaded and attacked Gallery Security base located at Akanaku community with five speed boats.

City Briefs 785 motorists arrested for traffic offences Camillus Nnaji

he Lagos State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) said it arrested about 785 motorists for various offences during the Easter. The Sector Commander, Hyginus Omeje, told our correspondent in Lagos that the command also deployed over 500 officers and men for the Easter patrol on Lagos-Ibadan, Lagos-Epe and Lagos-Badagry expressways. He said: “Analysis of the three-day operations shows that a total of 785 motorists have been arrested for over 884 different offenses with a total of 306 vehicles impounded. “We have equally carried out 38 motor park rallies, 29 road shows during which over 5,000 handbills were distributed, alongside television station and radio programme appearances all aimed at educating the motoring public on the proper use of the highway during the Easter. He said: “This year’s Easter special operation is aimed at arresting motorists who drive under the influence of alcohol, overload their vehicles, over speed, make use of phone while driving, drive dangerously or recklessly and failure to use seatbelt, among other traffic violations.”

‘Save us from cult members’

he residents of Onigbedu Road at Itori in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State have sent a Save Our Soul (SOS) letter to the state Commissioner of Police to save them from members of a notorious cult group. The people said in the petition that members of Eiye Confraternity had constituted themselves as threats to lives and property in the area. In a letter addressed to the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Itori Police Station, the residents alleged that the cult group, led by one Awikonko was in the habit of robbing the people of their belongings while armed with machetes, guns, axes and other dangerous weapons. “He and his cult members are a law unto themselves. In our area, the fear of Awikonko is the beginning of wisdom in a state where law and order reign; hence our resolve to report him and his gang to the authorities,” the letter reads in part. The residents wondered why one man and his evil group should be denying them their right to live in peace as responsible citizens. They called on the police chiefs to come to their aid by curtailing the criminal activities of the hoodlums so that they and their families could live in peace.

Police give vehicle owners ultimatum

he Lagos State Police Command has warned owners of abandoned vehicles parked at Dopemu Police Division to remove them. The police said if not removed within 21 days after the publication, the vehicles would be auctioned. The vehicles are Space Wagon (scrap) with registration number KRD248 DP, Faragon bus (scrap) marked KTU 116XA and Faragon bus (scrap) with registration number AAA313XY.

12 News

SOUTH - WEST

Buhari's victory cannot guarantee yours, Alao-Akala tells Ajimobi Sola Adeyemo IBADAN

ormer Oyo state governor and governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, has flayed Governor Abiola Ajimobi for using the name of the presidentelect, General Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for his re-election campaign, saying that no amount of political gimmicks will save the governor from drowning. A statement by the Labour Party's governorship candidate's Director of Public Affairs, Oludare Ogunlana, stated that General Buhari and Governor Ajimobi are

two separate entities like "light and darkness" which can never work together, adding that "using Buhari's name rather than his (Ajimobi) achievements is the greatest undoing a sinking governor can do to win at all cost. Buhari neither awards contracts at questionable amount nor neglected meritocracy for mediocrity. The APC administration is anti-masses as it has inflicted pains on the people as against its campaign promises in 2011". Noting that Buhari won last Saturday's election because of his pedigree as an incorruptible person, the party described Ajimobi as “the most corrupt in the history of the State”.

Guber/Assembly polls: Osun APC chides critics of use of card reader Adeolu Adeyemo OSOGBO

sun State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday took a swipe at those agitating that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should discontinue with the use of card reader machines in the gubernatorial and State Assembly polls slated for Saturday. The APC’s Director of Publicity and Strategy, Barrister Kunle Oyatomi, who described the people behind the agitation, in a statement in Osogbo, as fraudulent and enemies of democracy, charged INEC to ignore their request. Oyatomi stated that "those who are now agitating that INEC should discontinue the use of

the card reader are the losers at the last election, who want to recoup their losses, and gain from a fraudulent manipulation of the voting process which they have used in the last 16 years to stay in power. "We vehemently oppose the idea being suggested by some interested parties that INEC should not use the card reader for the governorship and Houses of Assembly elections. "It will be defeatist for INEC, retrogressive for our emergent democracy and absolutely harmful to the credible electoral process which INEC is building and Nigerian should not accept the idea either, for if they do, they will be shooting themselves in the head, which will be tantamount to collective suicide.”

We won't congratulate Buhari — CD Babatope Okeowo AKURE

he Campaign for Democracy (CD) in Ondo State yesterday said it will not join other Nigerians to congratulate Gen. Muhammadu Buhari until he starts to address the myriads of problems confronting the country. The Chairman of the group, Mr Ifeanyi Odili, who cautioned Nigerians not to be over joyous over the victory of Buhari, said the task of rebuilding Nigeria at this time does not call for any celebration. He said Nigerians should constitute themselves into a strong opposition in readiness to always remind the president-elect of all his

electioneering promises. His words: "We can only congratulate him if he fulfils his promises to Nigerians after he leaves office. That is if he succeeds in weeding Nigeria of the endemic corruption which has eaten deep in our system. "It is very unfortunate that every successive leader in Nigeria had failed to critically address corruption which is the bane of Nigeria's social, political and economic development. We in the CD regretted that soon after we chased away the military and eventual return to democracy, we left the entire process in the hands of politicians thinking that our troubles as a people were over.

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ogun: PDP, APC trade words over uncollected 400,000 PVCs Kunle Olayeni ABEOKUTA

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State, Prince Gboyega Isiaka, yesterday accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of mopping up thousands of uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in the state in an alleged bid to rig Saturday's gubernatorial and House of Assembly elections. Addressing a press conference in Abeokuta, the Director of Media and Publicity of Isiaka's campaign organisation, Comrade Ifekayode Akinbode, warned against moves to disrupt the electoral process with thugs and some commercial drivers. He also said that the ruling APC had concluded ar-

rangements to recruit young supporters of the party to serve as youth corps members for the election. But in a swift reaction, the Deputy Director-General of Senator Ibikunle Amosun Campaign Organisation (SIACO), Chief Bisi Adegbuyi, denied the allegation, describing it as "outlandish and spurious." He said that the PDP made the allegation because the party was already scared of imminent defeat in the coming election. Akinbode said the evidence at the PDP's disposal showed that the APC had already purchased many of the uncollected 400,000 PVCs for "underhand use." He recalled that the PDP standard bearer had previously raised the alarm over alleged uneven and suspected clan-

destine distribution of PVCs "in a manner that seem to disenfranchise a section of the state in favour of another section". He said: "The grand plot is to give the purchased PVCs to members of their party and then push them to polling units where the impostor corps members are posted. This way, the cards will not be verified since everyone knows the plot. At such locations, huge votes will be returned for the APC to the detriment of the PDP and the unsuspecting voters. "Secondly, we also have it on good authority that the Amosun regime plans to disenfranchise a lot of civil servants in the state due to their perceived inclination to vote against the regime. The plan is to block access to PVCS by the workers, especially in areas where they are located. This is very ludi-

crous and shameful. It is a crass display of desperation by Amosun and his party." Akinbode cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against colluding with the Amosun-led administration in undermining the integrity of the poll, stressing that any attempt to truncate the popular wish of the people will be met with stiff resistance. "The Gboyega Nasir Isiaka Campaign Organisation has conducted the campaign with utmost decorum and is confident of winning the election on Saturday. The people have rejected Amosun and he must not drag the state down with him," he said. While reacting, Adegbuyi said the APC was not known to have predisposition to subversion of the people's will.

L-R: Head of Project Monitoring, Bureau of Social Services (BOSS), Wole Idowu; Permanent Secretary, Osun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mr. Fatai Kolawole; Director General, BOSS, Mr. Femi Ifaturoti and Governor Rauf Aregbesola, during Aregbesola’s impromptu visit to the on-going fabricated school building at Community Elementary & Middle School, Dada Estate in Egbedore Local Government of the state. Inset: Pupils of the school.

Sola Adeyemo IBADAN

head of Saturday's election, Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, has urged voters in the state to vote for him and all the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates in the House of Assembly election. He said "a vote for other candidates will be a waste, in view of APC's victory at the centre". The governor made the appeal yesterday while speaking on an MITV programme monitored in Ibadan, the state capital, saying that any vote for Accord, Labour Party (LP) or Social Democratic Party (SDP) is a vote for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Don't waste your votes on PDP, LP, Ajimobi urges electorates He said that the state could not afford to play opposition politics now when it stands a great chance of benefitting immensely from a federal government that is wholly the party’s. "Oyo State people are sophisticated and have demonstrated their acceptance of progress and change. They should repeat the same thing on Saturday. Don't waste your vote, I beg you. If you vote for Accord, it's PDP. If you vote for SDP, it is PDP. If you vote for Labour, it is also PDP. And PDP has crumbled

as you know." Ajimobi said. He added that having demonstrated their love for change and progressives by voting massively for the APC presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) and its National Assembly candidates in the state on March 28, Oyo State cannot afford to opt out and operate as an opposition state again. According to him, several initiatives of his administration which required the approval or cooperation of the Federal Government could

not succeed because of the Federal Government's refusal to play its role. But now that the APC had taken over the Federal Government, Ajimobi urged voters to repeat the same massive support for him and the party in the April 11 election as demonstrated in the last election. Declaring that he was confident of victory in the Saturday election, the governor said that his policies have endeared him to the people of the state who appreciate his transformation, reformation and repositioning agenda.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, april 7, 2015

Legislature

Abia guber

S’West, N’Central, N’East scramble for National Assembly leadership

Udensi charges electorate, accuses PDP of planning violence

Governorship poll

Reporter’s Diary

Amaechi can’t deliver Rivers for APC on Saturday – Wike

Fashola: I’m not a governor, but a voter

Politics APC lawmakers plot Fayose’s fall The victory of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Major General Muhammadu Buhari, in the March 28 presidential election seems to have geared up APC members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly who have been on a sort of leave. ADESINA WAHAB writes on the unfolding political drama in the state

kiti State is in the news again. This time over alleged service of a Notice of Impeachment on Governor Ayo Fayose by the APC caucus in the House of Assembly. For Fayose and his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members, the notice is nothing but a fluke. According to them, there is nowhere in the world that such a notice could be served online. While members of the PDP see the development as a fillip the APC got in the state because of Buhari’s victory, they warned against setting the state ablaze. Impeachment fluke Commenting on the development, the Minister of State for Works, Prince Dayo Adeyeye, warned APC and its members in Ekiti State to tread cautiously so as not to endanger democracy in the country, saying “posting notice of impeachment of a state governor online when the House of Assembly never sat to pass any motion for impeachment is not only ridicu-

AYODELE OJO

DEPUTY Editor, POLITICS ayodele.ojo@newtelegraphonline.com

Fayose

lous, but criminal.” The minister said it was necessary that the President-Elect, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, should call members of APC in Ekiti State to order so that they don’t by their desperation for power in Ekiti State truncate democracy in Nigeria. He said it was disheartening that APC members in Ekiti State were capitalising on Buhari’s victory to cause crisis in the state. “If President Goodluck Jonathan and the PDP had behaved the way APC people are behaving in Ekiti State now, the country would have been in chaos by now,” he noted. Adeyeye, who described the purported impeachment notice as laughable, said legislative businesses are conducted inside the hallowed chamber of the House of Assembly, not online. “Is it online that lawmakers sit to move motion for impeachment, adopt the motion and serve impeachment notice? Dr. Adewale Omirin, who signed the purported impeachment notice as Speaker of the State House of Assembly is in court, challenging his impeachment and if he is still the Speaker, what then is he challenging in court? “Also, the online notice of impeachment was dated March 9, 2015 and the governor was given seven days to respond to the allegations purportedly made against him. So, what has happened since March 16, 2015 that the seven days

Omirin

With Buhari’s victory in the recent presidential poll, APC members in the state, including the lawmakers, seemed energised, even though Buhari did not win in the state

ultimatum ended?” Factional Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Dele Olugbemi, also dismissed the purported notice of impeachment against Fayose and his deputy, Dr. Olusola Kolapo, by some APC lawmakers, describing it as a ploy by the APC to distract the state government. Olugbemi also petitioned the state Commissioner of Police and Director of the Department of State Service, accusing Omirin of forgery, impersonation and attempt to cause breach of public peace. He said: “The House never sat at any time to deliberate, and or pass any Motion for Impeachment of Mr. Ayodele Fayose.” In a letter written to the State Chief Judge, Justice Ayodeji Daramola, dated April 4, 2015, Olugbemi said: “Dr. Adewale Omirin, who signed the purported Impeachment Notice as Speaker of the State House of Assembly was duly impeached at the plenary session of the House on November 20, 2014.” The letter signed by Olugbemi and Clerk of the House, Joseph Tola Esan reads; “Our attention has been drawn to publications in some online newspapers of a purported notice to impeach the Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose by the State House of Assembly. “The purported Notice of Impeachment dated March 9, 2015 was signed by Dr Adewale Omirin, who claimed to be the Speaker of

the State House of Assembly. “We wish to dissociate the Ekiti State House of Assembly from the purported impeachment notice, as the House never sat at any time to deliberate, and or pass any Motion for Impeachment of Mr Ayodele Fayose. “Resolutions of the House of Assembly cannot be taken outside the precinct of the House and as at today, there is nothing in the records of proceedings of the Ekiti State House of Assembly to show that matter(s) on impeachment of Governor Ayodele Fayose was discussed in the hallowed chamber of the House of Assembly of Ekiti State. “Dr Adewale Omirin, who signed the purported Impeachment Notice as Speaker of the State House of Assembly was duly impeached at the plenary session of the House on November 20, 2014. “Votes and proceedings, Order Papers and Hanzard of sittings of the House are available for clarification. “In the face of the law, and going by records of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Dr. Adewale Omirin and Hon Adetunji Orisalade stand impeached as Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House respectively. “On November 26, 2014, Dr Adewale Omirin filed Suit No: PHC/L/CS/1823/14 at the Federal High Court Lagos, challenging his impeachment. “The two cases mentioned above are still pending in court. Having approached the court to challenge his impeachment, it is trite in law that the impeachment stands until the court decides otherwise. “In a situation whereby you have approached the court to adjudicate on a matter, it is subjudice to take any further action to overreach the court. “Your Lordship should therefore disregard any correspondence from the Ekiti State House of Assembly, bearing the name and signature of Dr. Adewale Omirin as Speaker of the House, until the court determines Suit No: PHC/L/ CS/1823/14 challenging the outcome of the House sitting of November 20, 2014 in which he (Omirin) was duly impeached.” Forgery accusation In another letter to the Commissioner of Police and Director of DSS, Olugbemi described the use of letterhead of the office of the Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly by Omirin as forgery. CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Politics

Gbajabiamila

TUESDAY, april 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Mark

Dogara

S’West, N’Central, N’East scramble for National Assembly leadership lGbajabiamila, Dogara battle for Speakership

Philip Nyam and Ibrahim Abdul

ith the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections, the jostle for leadership positions in the Senate and House of Representatives has begun in earnest even as the emerging dominant party, the APC, is yet to zone the principal offices of the federal parliament. APC has secured 60 senatorial seats while the party got over 200 seats in the lower chamber in the Eight Session due for inauguration in June. Already, the South-West, NorthCentral and North-East have embarked on intense lobby to produce the President and Deputy President of the Senate, and Speaker of the House of Representatives. The South-East and SouthSouth have been ruled out of the contest for the Senate leadership because of the failure of the zones to produce ranking senators. The only senator-elect from the two zones is from Edo North, a first timer. In the House, the South-East has lost out of the speakership as the two elected members of the lower chamber from Imo are first timers. It was also learnt that the South-South, which has two returnee APC members is equally making case for the position of Speaker. Hon. Pally Iriase from Edo is interested and we gathered is already making consultations. Iriase is a one-time speaker of Edo State House of Assembly and key member of the party. The second is Hon. Peter Akpatason, a labour activist turned politician. Those propping up the candidature of Iriase are of the opinion that the South-South geopolitical zone should not be left out of the power sharing arrangement. The South-South presently

holds the position of national chairman of the party and the two lawmakers are all from Edo State same as the Chief John OdigieOyegun. This may knock out the zone considering its insignificant numerical strength. The North-Central, North-East and South-West are now locked in the battle to succeed Senators David Mark and Ike Ekweremadu as President and Deputy President of the Senate. New Telegraph reliably learnt that if the North Central gets the Senate President's slot, the Speaker would be produced by the South-West and if the South-West is allotted the Senate President, the North-East would produce the Speaker. Yesterday, the North-East chapter of the APC opted for the office of Senate President or the Speaker of the House. The zone made the demand against the backdrop of its contribution to the party, even as it said it had eminently qualified candidates for the positions. A statement signed yesterday in Abuja by APC National Vice Chairman (North-East), Engr. Babachir David Lawal, also urged the voters in the region to vote massively for the APC at the governorship and state House of Assembly elections on Saturday. The statement read: “In recognition of this immense contribution to the party’s victory, I want to seize this opportunity to call on the APC national leadership to cede either the Senate Presidency or Speaker of the House of Representatives to the region where we have an abundance of talent and eminently qualified candidates for these positions. “This will set the region on a course of accelerated development that it so desperately needs. But for us to reap the full benefits of an APC government at the centre, we must also have APC in government in the six states in our zone.”

INDEP ELECT ENDENT NAT ORAL C IO OMMIS NAL SION

Meanwhile, the Minority Leader of the House, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila from Lagos and chairman, House Services Committee, Hon. Yakubu Dogara from Bauchi are presently frontliners for the position of Speaker. Although Gbajabiamila hails from the same zone with the vice president-elect, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, his campaigners argue that the South-West's votes were critical in the victory of General Muhammadu Buhari and should be given a presiding role in the national parliament. A returning member of the House told New Telegraph that Gbajabiamila has the clout and the required composure to preside over the House having been Minority Leader in the past four years. "We are making case for the South-West and Hon. Femi [Gbajabiamila] because the votes from the zone contributed immensely in the emergence of Buhari. I think no right thinking party member would want the zone to play second fiddle in the parliament. "And I can tell you, the minority leader is very competent. He has proven over the years since 2011, that he can hold his own given whatever circumstances. It is only right that he should be elevated to lead the House in the next Assembly." Another lawmaker from the South-West returning to the House for the third time disclosed to one of our correspondents in a telephone chat that the South-West will play a strategic role in the Buhari administration and that to give other zones a sense of belonging, the Senate President should go to the North Central, while the Speaker should be given to the South West. "Most APC stakeholders believe that since the vice president is from the South-West, the Senate President should be ceded to another zone, preferably, the North Central and then, speaker be given

to the South-West." According to him, "if the party finally resolves this after the gubernatorial and state assembly elections on April 11, Gbajabiamila should be the natural choice. He is matured; he is intelligent and outspoken; he is a team player and can function effectively as speaker, so we will support him." A lawmaker from Kaduna told our correspondent that "Dogara may eventually emerge as deputy speaker because the South-West has to be compensated for its massive support for the APC and Buhari. We can't ignore their contribution and unless the party zone the Senate President to SouthWest, the speaker will naturally come from the South-West." But those angling for Dogara are also not resting on their oars. One of his campaigners from Kaduna told our correspondent that "Dogara is the candidate to beat as far as position of speaker is concerned. As chairman of the House Committee on Services, Dogara has done extremely well. "He is a brilliant lawyer and a master strategist. We know ourselves in the House; we know who is who so I can assure you, unless the party say otherwise, he is our choice," he disclosed. Dogara's supporters argue that the North-East, where he comes from, has been unfairly treated by the Goodluck Jonathan administration and has not had its fair share in the scheme of things in the National Assembly. "The highest we have in the present dispensation is Deputy Senate Leader and Chief Whip of the House. To me, this is not enough for a zone that gave PDP much support. "Now, we are predominantly APC, so the APC should correct the injustices done to North-East by the PDP. If you remember, we (North-East) were to have Deputy Speaker in 2011 but the South-East (Ihedioha) took it away and there was no compensation. This time it must be corrected," a returnee member from Adamawa State told New Telegraph.

Politics 15

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, april 7, 2015

Abia guber: Udensi charges electorate, accuses PDP of planning violence Norman Obinna

bia State Progressive Peoples Alliance, (PPA) governorship candidate, Sir Chikwe Udensi has urged Abians not to be dispirited by last week’s manipulation of election results in the state but become more resolute in their quest to voting out the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Udensi, who made the call during the Easter day celebration in his Arochukwu country home, Abia State also accused PDP of planning to use violence to scuttle the forthcoming governorship election as the

party is aware that the people have rejected it. He said that the PDP has assembled some hoodlums and political thugs from Aba and Ohafia to harass voters, cause confusion and snatch ballot boxes in areas where the results are not favourable to the party. His words: “They (PDP) are afraid because of the massive rejection their National Assembly candidates suffered at various polling units across the state. They know that the situation cannot be remedied so the only option they have is to resort to violence by engaging the services of hoodlums to cause trouble. “PDP cannot eat their

cake and expect to have it, for eight years they subjected the people of Abia State to untold hardship thinking that they can woo them again with bags of rice and money. But the people are wiser and have decided to change the government that refused to change them. So why planning bloodshed?” Udensi who was optimistic of victory come April 11, further advised security agents to provide enough security at the polling units to avoid chaos and bloodshed. “A situation where you see a police officer

and one Civil Defence corps at polling units without a single rifle is unacceptable considering the experience of last week’s Presidential and National Assembly elections in Abia State where INEC materials were hijacked and results manipulated,” he said. He also urged the Independent National Electoral Commision (INEC) to ensure the protection of electoral materials and also ensure that they arrive early enough to avoid voting at night so that those planning to scuttle the election and blood-

INDEP ELECT ENDENT NAT ORAL C IO OMMIS NAL SION

shed in some various polling units and wards will not have their way. He, however, asked the people to undermine the threat of violence by the PDP and come out en mass to cast their vote for him and other PPA candidates

in Abia State on Saturday, saying that a vote for him is a vote for a better Abia where everybody’s future is guaranteed. “The passion to rebuild Abia is burning stronger in my heart, my blueprint for Abia State covers all sectors as well as provides for mentally challenged, the less privileged, the elderly ones and even the motherless babies. Under my watch as the governor of Abia State, if elected, every Abia indigene will be proud to tell people that he or she is from Abia State,” Udensi said.

Amaechi can’t deliver Rivers for APC on Saturday – Wike Emmanuel Masha, Port Harcourt

he Rivers State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barr. Nyesom Wike has said that the state governor, Rotimi Amaechi, cannot deliver the state for the All Progressives Congress (APC) no matter how hard he tried. Wike also said that no matter what the APC does, the governorship election is a concluded issue, warning that the APC “will rig their lives” if they attempt to rig Saturday’s election. Wike, who stated this at the Easter celebration/PDP victory rally held at Rukpokwu Primary School, urged his supporters not to lose sleep over this weekend’s governorship election because “nobody can stop us from winning on Saturday. “Let them (APC) be in charge of the Army, Navy or anything, they cannot win this election. If (Governor Rotimi) Amaechi likes, let him bring Secretary-General of the United Nations (Ban Ki moon) or (Attahiru) Jega, the chairman of INEC to conduct the election, APC will fail again on Saturday.” Wike said that Rivers government was scheming to shift the election until the President-elect, General Mohammadu Buhari has been sworn in to office. “They don’t want election to be conducted until

Buhari is sworn in. It will not work. We must hold election in Rivers State,” he said. Wike urged the members of the APC to stop being used by the Rivers government from staging unnecessary protests on the streets of Port Harcourt and sealing off of the INEC office, and promised to “mobilise the sponsors of such protest out of Port Harcourt.” Also speaking, the deputy national chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus called on supporters not to be intimidated by the governor, noting that they alone have the power to vote in the next governor of the state. Also speaking, Deputy Governor Tele Ikuru disclosed that in the last seven years, his advice for some projects that would impact the people were neglected. Ikuru noted that the PDP remains the only party that has peopleoriented blueprint of social contract with the Rivers people. Meanwhile, a cleric, Archbishop Elkanah Hanson of El-Shadai Ministries International has said that Wike is not a member of the Ogboni Confraternity, or any other secret cult. He said that the story of Wike belonging to a secret cult was being peddled by the APC to discredit him. He said that God told him “that Wike is the next governor of Rivers State.”

Governor Abiola Ajimobi addressing members of the Traditional Medicine Association of Oyo State chapter at a rally in Ibadan …yesterday.

Lagosians safe in my hands, says Ambode Temitope Ogunbanke

lGroups endorse APC candidate

he All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has restated his commitment to lead a government of inclusion where every Lagosian, irrespective of tribe or ethnicity, is carried along in the quest to make Lagos greater. Speaking yesterday while receiving donation of buses from the Nigeria Progressive Ambassadors, at an event held at the party’s secretariat in Lagos, the APC candidate noted that, “Every group in Lagos is safe in my hands as Governor. I will not discriminate against any religious or ethnic group. It is our Lagos and we must build it together.” Speaking further, Am-

bode said, “In my acceptance speech after the primaries I made this note that I will be a Governor for all and Lagos is safe in my hands. I want to build on the foundation of unity. Peace and progress and development laid by my predecessor.” “I am your best choice for a Lagos that must continue to thrive. And though tongue and tribe may differ we stand in brotherhood in Lagos from the smallest ethnic groups to the major ones. We are all stakeholders.” Speaking through the group’s General Secretary, Miss Vuakpor Ojo, the group was described as that of young persons who strongly believe in the future of Lagos and the country as a whole. Meanwhile, a group

within the entertainment industry, Nollywood Stakeholders Forum (NSF) has urged Lagos residents to vote for Ambode on Saturday. Addressing a press conference in Lagos yesterday, NSF coordinator, Eze Harris Chuma, said the forum would use everything at its disposal to ensure that Ambode become victorious in the governorship election, saying that Lagos cannot afford to be in opposition party. He also congratulated the President-elect, Major General Muhammadu Buhari on his victory and urged him to implement programmes that will promote and develop the entertainment industry in Nigeria. His words: “The vic-

tory of the APC is a welcome development and obviously, would positively bring the much desired change in the nation’s creative industry. Now that APC is going to be the ruling party at the federal government comes May 29, Lagos cannot afford to be in the opposition party. We cannot afford government that has been rejected at federal to take over Lagos State. “We are supporting APC because the APCled government in Lagos State has supported Nollywood in different ways. The party has undertaken medical bills of Nollywood stars who were sick at one point or the other. We want to show the world that Nollywood Stakeholders Forum is behind the APC and that is why we are backing the party.

16 Politics

TUESDAY, april 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Much ado about Fayose’s impeachment C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 3

He said: “Knowing that he ceased from being the Speaker of the State House of Assembly since November 20, 2014, Dr. Omirin still forged the letterhead of the Office of the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, using same to write a letter and signing same as Speaker of the House of Assembly, an office he no longer occupies. “I therefore urge you to use your good offices to investigate these criminal acts perpetrated by Dr Omirin with a view to prosecuting him for forgery and impersonation.” No escape route for Fayose – Omirin However, Omirin, through his media aide, Wole Olujobi, said Fayose cannot run away from facing impeachment process, noting that the impeachment notice served him is a constitutional matter and not about theatrics to play down serious issues of the law raised in the letter to the governor. “Instead of staying in hiding to evade justice, it is better to live with the reality that the rule of law has come to stay in the country,” he noted. Reacting to media reports credited to Olugbemi; and the governor’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, dismissing the impeachment notice to the governor as a joke, Omirin said the two men were still acting in ignorance of the supremacy of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in nurturing democratic conduct consistent with the universal standard. “Ekiti issue is a matter of rescuing democracy from the gridlock of executive lawlessness and impunity into which the state has been driven by the governor. “It will soon dawn on Fayose and his aides that the matter at hand goes beyond exuberant media skirmishes that are being deployed to rally support for the governor. “Attention of the world has shifted to Ekiti State following the leaked tape detailing electoral fraud perpetrated to give Fayose victory. After that, several issues in Ekiti State are being questioned on the place of the constitution in nurturing democracy in the country, and as responsible citizens, we must act right to make democracy work.” Omirin said all allegations raised in the impeachment notice are constitutional matters, to which the governor must be ready to produce answers instead of belligerent attitude in the media in addressing serious issue of constitutional significance. Advising the governor to respond to the allegations against him, he said running away from the Government House and using his aides to cover his track would not help him in defending his assault on the nation’s constitution and other infractions against the constitution that were already established against him in courts. “Even though the governor trampled on the same constitution when he led thugs to attack judges in court and tore court records,” he added. Police on surveillance Also, the police command, not

Omirin (middle) addressing reporters at the Assembly complex

wanting to be caught unawares, has intensified security surveillance in the state. The Commissioner of Police, Taiwo Lakanu, who disclosed this in a telephone chat, said the command had to take proactive steps to forestall any breakdown of law and order. Lakanu said 24 hours security surveillance had been put in place, particularly around the House of Assembly Complex and other hot spots. He said: “Security personnel have been placed on the alert while high visibility patrol is being conducted around Ado-Ekiti. We knew the tension generated must have caused some apprehension, but we are being proactive because the security of lives and property and general peace of the people is our top most priority.” Resurgence of political tension But having been quiet for a while, what led to this resurgence of political tension in Ekiti? Success of course. Success, which confers power and some privileges on the successful, can be intoxicating. It may not be to the extent that one becomes drunk, but can give one a kind of boldness one never had before. The situation is applicable to APC members in the Ekiti State House of Assembly who have been out of circulation for nearly six months. Since November last year, it has been no longer at ease with the Assembly that has been polarised into two. One consisting of 19 APC members and the other consisting of seven PDP members. When on November 17 last year, the PDP caucus removed Omirin of the APC as the speaker and installed Olugbemi in his stead, the crisis rocking the Assembly hit the roof. Omirin and his group have since gone to court to challenge his removal as the speaker. Apart from one occasion that the Omirin group met at an undisclosed location last December to arrive at some decisions, the group has been in a kind of limbo. With Buhari’s victory in the recent presidential poll, APC members in the state, including the lawmakers, seemed energised, even though Buhari did not win in the state. While APC supporters were con-

It will soon dawn on Fayose and his aides that the matter at hand goes beyond exuberant media skirmishes that are being deployed to rally support for the governor

gregating at the state secretariat to celebrate Buhari’s victory on April 1, and reporters were monitoring the situation, the information came that the Omirin group was heading for the Assembly complex. Fourteen APC lawmakers, led by Omirin, arrived the complex at about 11:50a.m. and headed for the conference room where they held a parliamentary session. Members of the Olugbemi group, who were taken by surprise, were in their offices while the drama was going on. Omirin asked the members to sing songs of praise and that lasted about two minutes before the opening prayer was said by Ogundele Folorunso (Efon Constituency). Omirin asked reporters to leave the room and barely four minutes later, at about 11:56a.m., they came out to address newsmen. It was at this point that two of their colleagues joined them to bring their number to 16. When asked why they have not been in the complex since November last year, Omirin said it was not compulsory that they performed all their official duties inside the Assembly complex. “We have been attending to our official duties since. For instance, I have been attending the Conference of Speakers and I attended one recently. Also, we have been performing our duties, as our duties are not limited to parliamentary and plenary sessions. “You should not be surprised that we are here, this is our office and we are coming to perform our duties. A lot of issues will be unfolding in the next few days. We will continue to resume here and perform our duties,” he said. Asked whether the APC lawmakers were not taking advantage of the recent victory of Buhari and acting as if they now have a godfather, Omirin said,”It is only a mere coincidence that we are here now to hold our parliamentary session. Asked what would be the next line of action of his group, Omirin said events would be unfolding soon and added that the situation has gone to the point that they would not retreat or surrender. Police, lawmakers drama While Omirin and his group

were about leaving, a team of armed policemen led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Operations, stormed the Assembly Complex and engaged the lawmakers in a shouting match. The member representing Ijero Consituency, Omowumi Ogunlola, wondered why the police should become a judge in a matter that did not concern them. The ACP, who wore a bullet proof vest that covered his name tag, urged the lawmakers to do everything according to the dictates of the constitution, adding that the police learnt that the issue on the leadership crisis was in court, and asked the lawmakers to leave. While Omirin was explaining the situation to him, some of his colleagues were interjecting and a shouting bout ensued. Omirin and his group left at about 12.10 pm. CP Lakanu later arrived the scene and ordered his men to cordon off the entire complex. It was at this point that Olugbemi came out to challenge Lakanu on why he should order the closure of the complex. “We are all Nigerians and we are doing our official duties here. I don’t think there is any need for the closure of this Assembly Complex. We can handle the matter. There is nothing that these APC lawmakers will do that we cannot match them,” he said. But an angry Lakanu said the order for the closure of the complex was from above and that the police would not wait and allow a breakdown of law and order in the state. Workers in the complex had no choice other than to vacate the complex. Olugbemi later issued a statement that the members were already winding down since their tenure is coming to an end and that they are already preparing comprehensive reports about their activities in the Assembly in the last four years. The 16 APC lawmakers that attended the session were Omirin, Ogundele, Adetunji Orisalade, Anike Oriniowo, Omowumi Ogunlola, Alabi Idowu, Ajayi Adebowale, Olajide Olaniyi and Oluyomi Daramola. Others were Odebunmi Gbenga, Fasakin Ajayi, Clement Adu, Agidi Peter, Odu Olurotimi, Olusegun Erinle and Shittu Oluwaseyi. Three others: Churchill Adedipe, Ogunrinde Olaseinde and Boluwade Kehinde were not present at the session. Olaseinde is being wanted by the police in connection with the violence that preceded last June governorship election in some towns in his constituency. Kehinde and some people are facing murder charges over the killing of Foluso Ogundare in Emure-Ekiti on November 3, 2013, but Omirin said they had some important issues to attend to outside the state. Buhari will be inaugurated as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Friday, May 29 and the tenure of the current Ekiti Assembly expires on Thursday, June 4, will the Assembly remain close till then? In Fayose’s first coming, he was impeached by the House of Assembly. Will the lawmakers succeed this time? Time will tell.

Politics 17

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, april 7, 2015

Going to the poll with heightened tension The March 28 elections in Lagos will remain indelible in the minds of Lagos residents. The atmosphere has never been charged as it was on the election eve due to the poll fever in the state. There were rumours that soldiers had bombarded everywhere in Lagos especially residences of the All Progressives Congress, (APC) chieftains across the state. There were also reports that many political thugs were around to unleash terror on anyone especially journalists. It was also rumored that members of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) in military uniforms are ready to unleash terror on the electorate. So intense was the fear that most offices closed for works in Lagos before 12 noon on Friday March 27. Some banks closed operations by 2:00p.m. The gridlock usually experience in most parts of the state at the peak hours suddenly disappeared as most workers had closed early and gone home before the usual time. On that day, I got several calls from relatives and friends across the country, warning me to be careful while covering the election. My mother-in-law, who was with us to take care of our newly born baby, Ibrahim, advised me to remain at home but after I explained the nitty-gritty of my job to her, she yielded and joined my mother, who was also around to rejoice with me on the birth of her grandson, to pray for me. Election Day As early as 6:30a.m. I joined the Press Crew bus of the Lagos State Governor’s Office Correspondents at the Lagos State Secretariat, Alausa, to monitor the election, especially in Surulere where Governor Babatunde Fashola will cast his vote. Voters in Lagos State trooped out in their large numbers early in the morning to participate in the much-talked presidential and National Assembly elections. As early as 7:30a.m, residents as well as some ad-hoc staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were seen at some of the polling units, getting ready for the crucial polls. Those who have no personal vehicles to convey them to their centres where the voting materi-

Fashola: I’m not a governor, but a voter

MURITALA Ayinla

ernor Fashola also said that his right hand thumb failed verification before he was asked to use his left hand. The governor, who is a lefthanded person, said all efforts to verify his voting eligibility failed until he used his right hand thumb, which eventually passed the verification screening.

Governor Fashola assisting an old woman to a polling unit in Surulere, Lagos.

als were kept, boarded few commercial vehicles who worked before the roads were closed for the crucial election. Many busy roads were deserted as there was no vehicular and human movements. Some of the roads which are usually characterised with gridlock were empty. From Berger, on Lagos-Ibadan Express Way, to Ojota, on Ikorodu road, the roads were empty. From Maryland to Costain Bus Stop on Funsho Williams Avenue, no vehicle was seen moving. So it was from Agege to Iyana-Ipaja as no shops or companies were seen open for operation as usual. Some security men, especially military personnel were also seen on some of the roads to check few moving vehicles who might be on essential duties. At Funsho Williams Avenue, precisely Barrack Bus Stop, some military personnel deployed for the election, stopped and searched our bus as they did to some other vehicles. They demanded for our Identity Cards, which we displayed before they allowed us to move on.

Why will I ignore the queue and leave those who voted for me in the sun only to come to the front because I am the governor?

Fashola queued behind 412 voters Governor Babatunde Fashola was among hundreds of residents who stepped out to perform their civic duties. Fashola, who queued behind about 412 voters with his family for about two hours before voting, also assisted an octogenarian to the polling booth to do accreditation. Explaining why he queued behind several other voters to vote, Fashola said: “You could see in the morning when I came for accreditation I joined the queue and by the time I came for voting in the afternoon to cast my vote, the queue has become so long. So, why will I ignore the queue and leave those who voted for me in the sun only to come to the front because I am the governor? So I had no option than to join them in the sun with my family. Today at this polling unit, I am not a governor but a voter.” Card reader rejected my right hand thumb, says Fahola As some residents complained about the malfunctioning of the INEC’s smart card readers, Gov-

Knocks, kudos as residents vote There were mixed reactions from Lagos voters over the elections. Some commended the electoral umpire for the conduct of the elections, others lamented the malfunctioning of the smart card readers. Many were disenfranchised by the failure of INEC officials to show up at some polling units. In some places, the officials came very late, making the election to spill over to the next day. As at 12 midnight on Saturday March 28, voting was going on in some areas in Magodo while some had to continue on Sunday. Shomolu Oshodi-Isolo, Kosofe, Eti-Osa and Alimosho local governments were affected by the logistic challenges. Halloween’ jokes in Alausa Like the famous 1938 radio dramatisation also known as Halloween’s joke, which placed ground zero of the Martian invasion in rural New Jersey and which led to confusion and made many residents flee their homes, Lagos State Secretariat also experienced commotion shorlty after the elections were concluded. There was a rumour that Governor Fashola ordered workers to flee the secretariat to avoid being attacked by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) thugs following the then likely declaration of the APC candidates as the winners of the presidential and National Assembly elections. Although, the governor immediately debunked the report, more than half of the workers had fled the secretariat before Fashola’s disclaimer.

March 28, Bauchi people and Boko Haram YEKEEN Nurudee n

hen the information came from the headquarters through the Bureau Chief that I had been posted to Bauchi to cover the presidential and National Assembly elections, I braced up bearing in mind the security challenges ravaging the Northern region. Four of us were sent on that special assignment: Johnchucks Onuanyim was to go to Kaduna,

Chukwu David went to Katsina while Philip Nyam was asked to go to Kano. All of them on the same route except me that went to Bauchi. I of course doubled my prayer, ditto for my family when they heard the news; they could not stop me from doing the work I signed for like military men, so they resorted to prayers for me. Therefore, when I left Abuja on Friday March 27 for Bauchi, I prayed like Jesus Christ on the Calvary, “that God, in your merciful hands I lay my life,” bearing in mind all the pre-election tension, crisis and of course scary prophecies by self-appointed men of God that the election

would witness bloodshed. So when I joined that Volkswagen Sharon space wagon from Mararaba to Bauchi that Friday afternoon, taking the front seat beside the driver it was with the mind of a prayer warrior and that of a soldier. I can’t recollect the number of calls I received between Abuja and Bauchi, friends, colleagues and of course my wife. All wanted to wish me safe trip and also warn me to be careful. Someone told me to put one Kaftan and watch what I say during the election coverage in Bauchi. From Keffi road to Bauchi, the road was manned by heavily armed security men comprising

INDEP ELECT ENDENT NAT ORAL C IO OMMIS NAL SION

of men of Nigerian Army and the Police which on hand calmed me down and also heightened my tension because they were always there when insurgents would attack villagers. The journey took about four and a half hours and we were in Bauchi town around 6p.m. Now, how do I find my way in Bauchi? That was the question that ran through my mind when my kits from INEC was handed over to me by my boss, Mr. Onwuka Nzeshi. I visited Bauchi first in 2010 when Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Senator Bala MoCONTINUED ON PAGE 20

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion Buhari: Safeguarding Igbo interest Jones Onwuasoanya

he Igbo used to be one of the most formidable of the tripod that held Nigeria together, and to a large extent decided its fate. But unfolding political dynamics make it obvious that the Igbo are fast losing grip of their hallowed place in Nigeria's political equation. Chief Ikedi Ohakim foresaw what happened today, at least several months ago. He made every effort to ensure that the Igbo interest is well protected within the outgoing PDP government led by President Goodluck Jonathan and his entreaties were rebuffed by those who feel they own Goodluck Jonathan more than Nigeria owns him. Some weeks ago, Ikedi Ohakim went public with his concerns over the chances of Jonathan's re-election and charged the President to ensure that he does the needful to ensure that most of the leaders of the Party who are aggrieved are made to return to the Party. In an article he titled; Obasanjo: What happened?, the former Governor of Imo State decried the high level mistakes by the Party leadership which made it possible for the PDP to lose some of its most valuable leaders across the Federation, culminating in the public shredding of Obasanjo's membership card, which he likened to a father tearing his child's birth certificate, which can be interpreted as the father repudiating the child. Ohakim called the President and the Party leadership's attention to the reality that a handsome amount of PDP leaders have torn their own Party cards in the privacy of their bedrooms, the huge deficit in votes which President Jonathan suffered in most PDP ruled States confirmed this. When Ohakim's efforts at salvaging his Party's for-

tunes were rebuffed, he discarded his partisanship like Obasanjo and began to look for ways to ensure that the Igbo extracted the best deals possible for the emerging political leadership in Nigeria. While not a tribal Lord, Ohakim was disturbed by the obvious retrenchment of the Igbo in Nigerian politics of the day. He forgot about being a member of any political Party and concerned himself with fighting for equity for the Igbo nation. He understood that Nigeria can only survive if all the groups within the country are treated fairly. His decision to convene the Igbo Conversational Group attracted some flak from those who did not care about the Igbo interest but were and are still more concerned about their personal interests. When Ohakim released a document which was titled 2015 and the Igbo question: agwo no na akirika, he called attention to the glaring injustices and marginalization which the Igbo ethnic group and especially the South-East region suffered under the Goodluck Jonathan administration, notwithstanding the massive support which the Igbo have given the President and the Peoples Democratic Party, since its inception in 1998. Ohakim spearheaded an unprecedented mobilization of the Igbo to ask the right questions before throwing their support behind any of the presidential candidates. He reminded the Igbo that politics is all about negotiations and bargains and not blind followership. The reality is that, President Jonathan took the support of Ndi Igbo for granted, and we needed to let him understand that. Ohakim gave him an opportunity to correct that, but he kept dragging his feet till it became too late. Instead of taking up the points raised by the Igbo Conversational Group based on its merits or other-

wise, some acclaimed PDP leaders from the SouthEast and elsewhere started a hate campaign against Ohakim, accusing him of anti-party activities and even making moves to suspend him from the PDP. In response to their concerns, Ohakim made it clear to them that he is first an Igbo man before becoming a PDP member, hence, he has to advance the Igbo interest beyond that of the Party. He made it clear to all who cared to listen that he can stop being a member of the PDP, but will never cease being an Igbo man. It is to Ohakim's credit that the Igbo nation will not be completely relegated in the unfolding scheme of things. Without any of the Igbo States producing an APC Senator, the chances of an Igbo Senate presidency is ruled out and the reality that there is no ranking legislator of Igbo extraction who won election into the House of Representatives also blurs the chances of an Igbo becoming the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The deputy Senate presidency and deputy speakers positions which the Igbo had in their kitty have also eluded us. What then, shall the Igbo get in the coming federal government? A situation where the Igbo will fail to take any sensitive position within the federal government will be very disastrous to our political survival as a people. If we do not get a sensitive political position, we can at least ensure that we get good infrastructural allocations. If the coming federal government picks up that Ohakim document in which he pointed out the several areas where the Igbo are being shortchanged and addresses those concerns, then, our complaints can be less. • Onwuasoanya wrote from Owerri, Imo state

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Let's welcome Buhari On the occasion of your historic emergence as Nigeria President – Elect at the presidential elections of March 28, 2015 the World Clergymen Congratulate your elbow and in my own name, World Youths for peace of United Nations an affiliated youth body of the International Association of Christian Clergymen for Peace of United Nation and the Nigeria- Romania Friendship and Cultural Association who endorsed your Excellency for the Presidential elections. All praises and thanks are due to God, Allah the Benevolent and Merciful. We praise Him and thank him for all His mercies. We bear witness solemnly that non except God is

worthy of worship. He is one and has no partner or assistance. The victory is sure if you will not ignore divine messages from God. You are the second Abraham Lincoln of the United States who contested for the presidency for many years before God sent him a helper from the throne and he emerged President. Bishop Lay Benson the vicepresident of International Association of Christian Clergymen for peace of United Nations who is also President World Missionary Press USA expressed joy that at last a good leader historically emerged in Nigeria. His Grace Archbishop Professor Uriel Bade Adesunloye (JP) President World Body Interna-

tional Association of Christian Clergymen for peace of United Nation urges your good leadership to promote and help nuture the friendly relations between Romania, the United States and the United Nations. The Bodies also congratulate Professor Yemi Osinbajo for his courage as running mate to General Muhammadu Buhari. Osinbajo has pledged to liberate the people of Nigeria from poverty. He is a great leader like Awolowo. • Prof. Uriel Adesunloye, Lagos

Beyond religion and culture There comes a time in every person's life, when it looks as if the situation at hand will not abate. Even when we try to be open, the situation seems perpetually and put us in the dungeon called confusion. This is the situation when we make restitution in life and reminisce on how we started and where we are heading to from the present situation. We are engrossed with a lot of things unsaid and see

unhappiness creep into our world, as the wind of sorrow blows away every word from our mouth. Our high delight vanishes replaced with a situation of grief that leaves a shoddy expression on our face. We question between truth and falsity and resort to providence called miracle. In a minute, we think of issues one million miles away; and think of one million and one issues in a minute. It is my wish that

every impossible and invisible line not come across our paths. I've now found out that confusion is a strange place. I have done everything on my part to eliminate it, yet it spreads. I'm looking for a solution to this seemingly dilemma. Remember me in your orison, while this fierce battle that has confronted us lasts. • Odimegwu Onwumere, Port-Harcourt

This time our votes counted When one looked in retrospect the odds stacked against the just concluded general elections; predictions of disintegration, uncertainties, terrorism, instability, economic meltdown and the deliberate heating of the polity, the palpable calm is a dues ex-machina. The Nigerian people for the very first time unequivocally spoke in one voice. Many factors though culminated in this resolution of the people’s yearnings. Prominent among the factors is the resolve of the people to collectively demonstrate their yearnings for change. The people are the real stake holders in the democracy and electoral process. When the people shunned ethnic patriotism and religious sentiment to embrace national patriotism, they reclaimed their rights as owners of the sovereignty. The journey into political maturity has jus begun; the critical objective now is to our political leaders accountable when we elect them to office. Like the USA where citizens pursue the American Dream, we must learn how to pursue a national dream. This is what we need at this point of our existence as we disrobe our triple heritage. The praise and credits for

this emerging change go to all Nigerians as we direct attention to some; civil societies, industrial unions, INEC, NOA, Nigerians in the Diaspora. They painstakingly convened political debates and dialogue conferences. Themes like; Enthroning an Issue based political culture in Nigeria’s Nascent Electoral democracy; towards Issue based electioneering Campaign are just a few of such. These collective efforts are purely public service depicting the creative ingenuity, patriotism and resilience of Nigerians in the face of adversity. This time our votes counted as we proved our critics and traducers wrong. It is perhaps the dawn of a new era to reposition our country as the truly undisputed Giant of Africa. I am of the opinion that, the winning party adopts a unity government. This allows for excellent minds and brains in other political parties who lost out to serve their fatherland. To achieve the yet to be institutionalized Nigerian Dream, we must practice politics of inclusion across party divides. • Comrade Ogbu A. Ameh, Abuja

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

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The need to vote wisely

n April 11, this year, Nigerians will, once again, troop to the polls in fulfillment of a fundamental civic responsibility- voting to elect candidates who will fly the flags of the respective parties as governors who will steer the development in a majority of the states of the federation for the next four years. Considering the tectonic political shift which translated into defeat for the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and victory for the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in the presidential election which held across the country last weekend, expectations are understandably high that the victory will consolidate the fortunes of the incoming ruling party. According to the national chairman of the ousted PDP, Alhaji Adamu Muazu, the party, which monopolised political power in the country for the past 16 years, will recover from its electoral rout to secure victory in at least 24 states of the federation. ‘I urge the PDP faithful to pick up the pieces and ensure that we return quickly to our old winning ways. There should be no room for voter apathy that was a major factor to our losing the presidential

election. While our opponents are savouring their famous victory, we should outflank them and corner, at least, two thirds of the states of the Federal Republic of Nigeria’. In a swift reaction, his APC counterpart, Chief John Oyegun, obviously buoyed by the new-found status as chairman of the new ruling party, accused the outgoing ruling party of day-dreaming, building unrealistic castles in the air and still being trapped in the past. ‘The PDP can continue living in the past. Nigerians are getting wise to their antics. They can dream. There is no way we are going to lose Lagos State. I am sure they are getting carried way by certain factors in the state’, he swaggered. ‘Many of the states that went to them are already seeing the errors in their judgement and are retracing their steps, determined to join the wind of change blowing across the country, a change which has not only excited Nigerians but also the global community’, Oyegun said. Also basking in the euphoria of the APC’s new status, the spokesman of the APC Presidential Campaign Organisation, Mallam Garba Shehu, said the PDP will continue to suffer defeat in the hands of his party.

‘Even without prompting, the bandwagon effect will be there. Nigerians are good copycats. Nobody would want to be on the side of the loser. So we expect a landslide in the in the governorship election,’ Shehu said. Already, the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Attahiru Jega has assured Nigerians that the commission would do everything within its power to address challenges associated with the last elections, especially the use of the card readers before the governorship elections. ‘INEC is committed to improving the elections in the country. We have identified some of the challenges and will ensure that they are addressed before the governorship and house of assembly elections. We hope to continue to work with the National Assembly so that we can keep improving the electoral process,’ Jega said. Beyond blustering by parties and expectations of bandwagon effect, there can be nothing like over-emphasising the fact that the ultimate responsibility of stabilizing the electoral process rests with Nigerians who must get it right on Saturday by voting only for credible candidates, not on the basis of money or superior capacity for

gratification. There can be no alternative to voters consciously deciding to cast their votes only for credible and transparently capable individuals who can deliver on their promises to return a better life for the people, not those who make unrealistic promises which may require more than one lifetime to fulfill. Voters must always be conscious of the fact that once their voting pattern is influenced by any manner of gratification, the people automatically forfeit the right to complain if such candidates fail to deliver on their campaign promises because a candidate who bought votes does not feel obliged to deliver on campaign promises, the substantive contract of soliciting for votes on the basis of cash and been consummated. paid for the votes that brought them to office. A candidate who paid for the votes that brought him or her to office simply does not feel obliged to do more than the responsibilities imposed on him by any ordinary business transaction which this scenario implies. That is why it is imperative for voters to vote right and only for credible candidates who can and will deliver on their campaign promises.

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

Eric Osagie

Editor n Yemi Ajayi

Managing Editor n Suleiman Uba Gaya

Editor, Saturday n Laurence Ani

Editor, Sunday n Emeka Madunagu

Deputy Editor n Emeka Obasi

Deputy Editor n Ayodele Ojo

Bureau Chief, Brussels n Leo Cendrowicz

Bureau Chief, Washington DC n Marshall Comins

Editorial Coordinator, Europe n Sam Amsterdam

Ag. Bureau Chief, Abuja n Onwuka Nzeshi

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Politics

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

hammed, then of the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) was officially moving from the party to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). It was in Alkaleri, the minister’s village along Gombe road and we had to spend two nights in Bauchi. My friend, Sani Tahir, a native of Bauchi who I had informed of my coming sent me an SMS of where to go immediately I get to Bauchi. I took a commercial motorcycle called “achaba” in the North to Gombe road in search of Talban Bauchi house. The road looked familiar; however it wasn’t

TUESDAY, april 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

March 28, Bauchi people and Boko Haram what I thought. The achaba man only dropped me off in front of one old house. He said: “This is Talban Bauchi house” and he sped off. With my shuttle bag strapped to my back I headed for the house where two young men were sitting. I greeted them with the little Hausa language I understood back in Kaduna, they responded, but when I enquired further on whether that was the Talban Bauchi house, I didn’t get the answer I was expecting. They didn’t speak

English and my Hausa wasn’t that good. I made calls after calls to Sani Tahir, he wouldn’t pick. Frustrated, I paced up and down in front of the house, nobody to talk to. There was no sign of people living in the house. It took Sani about 30 to 40 minutes to call back. He apologised and said I might have been to the wrong address: that is old Talban Bauchi house. He told me to ask people around of where Talban Bauchi house, near Alkali Aminu house is. Eventually, I located

the Talban Bauchi’s house but not without a scary and mild drama. The Talban’s house is not far from the main Gombe road but I was almost lynched. I got an inkling of what to come when I approached one kiosk owner near the house. With the little Hausa that I understood, I knew the young man was scared of seeing me with a bag behind me. He asked a number of questions, I smiled even though I didn’t understand much of what he said. I sensed

fear in him. He pointed to the back of his kiosk as where the house I was looking for is. I met a guy leaning by a fence, behind him were two horses tied to their stable in a compound supposedly Talban’s house. He almost slapped and kicked me; he refused to answer my greetings, he pretended he didn’t understand English language. My legs were shaking, heat erupted from within my system as I approached him and he put a stern face

while muttering words in Hausa. I was looking for who would bail me out. Sani was far away inside town. What did I do wrong? I didn’t know. But thank God for the divine appearance of Jubril, Sani’s younger brother. “Nurudeen, you are here,” he said. Sani called me you were on your way,” he added as he ushered me into the Talban’s house which happened to be their family house. “Sorry,” Jubril said. “You know because of Boko Haram, these are vigilante groups.” Continuing, he said: “Many times guys will come with bags and just drop it and before you know, there will be bomb blast.” As he was explaining, myself and the other guy were still staring at each other from the corners of our eyes. But we did become friends when the following morning fate brought us together again. He was sitting next to my left hand side in the mosque during the dawn prayer. After the prayer, I said salam alaekum to him with a handshake, he didn’t only respond but also smiled while taking my hands. Later in the day my friend, who I later discovered his name to be Sulaiman sat with me on the mat after I have concluded election monitoring. We chatted on different national issues but we never re-visited that our first encounter. Truly, you won’t blame Sulaiman. My experience on the Election Day at some polling units confirmed his fear. Voters were screened with handheld scanners before getting access to the polling units. In fact, one of the polling units was condoned off with red tape. Even journalists were screened. Then, I said now I know. Generally, the March 28 election was peaceful in Bauchi and the turnout was overwhelming. I saw young and old women with mats and chairs waiting to be accredited and later vote. I saw youths coordinating voters before the arrival of electoral officials and electoral materials. No violence to my knowledge on the day was recorded. I didn’t know of any attack in the state until Sunday March 29, when I was already on my way back to Abuja when I read on facebook of Boko Haram attack at Alkaleri village near Gombe. And later the story of curfew.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY APRIL 7, 2015

Arts

RT 21 Lagos recently welcomed art enthusiasts to appreciate Amoda’s new works and thoughts. The show is a representation of a critical mass consistent with one of the topical issues of the times-Privacy. The invasion of individual and group spaces resonates in the cameras, the open meshed spherical forms and columns, bugs and lights installations and the nude female forms. The public and privacy dialogue that Amoda has provoked in his visual statements will challenge notions and perceptions of how issues about privacy and the public affect or influence everyone. Amoda believes that “just as Adam and Eve lost their innocence after eating the forbidden fruit, we also lose our privacy the moment we buy any of these electronic devices such as television, camera, mobile phones, etc. This is eloquently captured in the work “For your Selfies.” A wall installation composed of several hundreds of camera like forms mercilessly staring at the viewer. This work brings to mind the number of handheld, laptops, desktops, CCTV and sundry surveillance and spy cameras that constantly take or steal images from bedrooms and bathrooms, streets and sitting rooms, hotels and hostels. These images find outlets in the media. We are ceaselessly bombarded by images which are in many cases unsolicited. It is like a scourge growing and it is sometimes really scary. In explaining the Forms of nudity as captured in the unclad or half-dressed female forms, Amodu notes that these women represent the workers of the commercial sex industry in Nigeria. “Rather than preaching morality or situating the pornographic as taboo, the female sensuality is celebrated.” Thus the blurred intersection of reality and fantasy is nuanced in this nude series. Viewed from a slightly different prism, Amoda has also drawn attention to the objectification of the female forms in the popular media. Internet Pop-ups, television adverts, posts from varied sources, sometimes creepy, hit your senses. Is Amoda’s celebration of the female form hinged on the pristine intention at creation as underscored by Mechelangelo’s nude figures in Sistine

TONY OKUYEME tony.okuyeme@newtelegraphonline.com

THEATRE

Crux of the Fringe in Amoda’s current oeuvre An exhibition of the latest body of works by Olu Amoda opened recently at Art Twenty One, Victoria Island, Lagos. The lecturer at the Yaba College of Technology and founder of Riverside Arts and Design Studios, Lagos, is exhibiting 25 works in the show titled Fringe. Art critic, AGWU ENEKWACHI writes that contemporary issues are at the centre of Fringe.

Some of the works

chapel at the Vatican City? Or is this celebration of the intent and purpose that taps into the ‘celebration’ in the popular media? How much nudity in the public would we accept of the women we really adore-wives, sisters and daughters. Will art and media ever do without nudity? The installation “NSA Columns and Balls” comprising four columns and 33 see-through metal balls, is a highlight of the exploitation of privacy invading devices by government establishment for the ‘safety’ of citizens which is sometimes exploited to rein in opposition. It is scary to live with the awareness of being watched and the thought of being stalked by strangers who peep into your private world. The meshed columns and balls represent the establishment and the compromised privacies. In one of the four columns, there are mini cameras while another one contains electronic gadgets tapping sounds from unwary persons within the exhibition space.

Amoda has been around for a while in the visual art scene in Nigeria. A graduate of Auchi polytechnic and Georgia Southern University where he obtained a Masters in Fine Arts, he has taught Sculpture and Drawing at the School of Art, Design and Printing at Yaba College of Technology in Lagos since 1987. His primary medium is steel and he has explored it significantly as can be seen in this recent body of works. His handling of the steel medium betrays great talent and a repertoire of skill accumulated over time from practice. The lyrical linear technique turns his metal into flexible lines of corporeal medium as seen in “Eye of the Storm”. The metals appear like pencil marks or brush strokes against the background. In works like “Ring my Bell,” “Sunday Outing” Amoda

Olu Amoda

transforms his blocks of found objects into a series of female figures in different poses in an CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Arts

espite working late into the night to complete a gown that must be collected the next day, Chioma Anukam radiates contentment and peace. Not even the fact that she had to rely on a generating set most of the time because of the frequent power cut in her neighbourhood has been experiencing could remove the smile from her face. “That is what happens when you like what you do”, she explains. “I work very hard but I don’t feel stressed up because I am passionate about what I do. I have this feeling of contentment when I make my customers happy. I’m a highly creative person and this is the only way, for mow, that I give vent to my creativity,” Anukam enthused. She had learnt to sew after her mother discouraged her from pursuing a career in music. At a very early age, she could not only sing beautifully but could write and compose excellent songs. But her mother, a Lady of St Mulumba and a devout Catholic woman, did not allow her. “My mom cried when I told her I would want to be a musician. Though she saw that I was doing well in music, she said that all musicians are wayward and that I was bent on bringing shame and disgrace to the family. I promised her I would stop everything about music when she started crying uncontrollable,” Anukam narrated. Her attempt at painting was also not supported even though she could draw so well. “Then, as young as I was, I could do abstract painting that come out colourfully well and I could paint excellent portraits. It was after my school certificate exams that I decided to use the long break to learn to sew. It was another burning passion that suddenly overwhelmed me. So much so that all the beating, sanctions and intimidation from my parents could not deter me. I had to work to earn the money I used to pay at the Fashion Designing School I attended. Even to allow me work was a big problem. I was beaten every day until they got tired of beating me.” Part of that effrontery she confessed was because she was coming of age and most importantly, she got a supporter in her elder brother who encouraged her not to allow their parents to stifle her destiny. The most caring of all the children, Anukam was pencilled down to read medicine by her Lecturer father, now late, but she ended up reading Industrial Physics, where she came out with flying colours. To them, it is better and more respectable than Music or Fine Art. “I heaved a sigh of relief when I got married and joined my husband. I thought, now, I could do whatever I wished to do but no. Just like my parents, he did not want to see any of those paints and brushes; neither did he support the idea of his wife sewing clothes. He convinced me to go back to school and read Business Administration so I could join in the management of his company. “Because I’m someone who puts in my best in everything I do, I came out cum laude but I was not satisfied. I felt unfulfilled.” But one day, Anukam had to revolt, against all odds. Setting her certificates aside she dusted her sewing machine for work. That was how Silky Stiches was established. Gradually and steadily, even to her own surprise,

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Parents should’nt kill children’s dreams, says Anukam she started having customers to the extent that she now makes clothes for most Nollywood stars. “Fashion designing is a form of art. You need to have a knowledge of fabrics and how to put these fabrics together and accessorizing it in a way that could bring out a an aesthetically pleasing design that will be good on the wearer and good for the occasion in which it will be worn. With a wide range of materials, patterns and colours to choose from, it takes one with a creative ability to get it right. “I use fashion designing to express my creative ability. I design a lot and having the ability to sew helps me to get it right. There is this indescribable happy feeling that swells in me whenever I finish a work and my customers like it.” Despite her success, Anukam is not yet done with art. She plans to have an exhibition of her old paintings and the ones she is musing about, one of these days. “I plan to make some collages, a combination of different fabrics and in addition to my old paintings; I plan to have an exhibition one day. I would be travelling home soon to bring my works here.” Despite the trouble she had to endure to express her creativity, Anukam has vowed to support two of her children who are showing great interest in arts. “I will never be a stumbling stone to their destiny. I encourage them to work hard and be the best in everything they set out to do. So far, they are good in both sciences

Anukam

Chioma Anukam was denied every avenue to express herself when she was younger. Though she wanted to be a Musician or an Artist, she ended up studying Industrial Physics to please her parents who wanted her to be a medical doctor. She later read Business Management but unfulfilled after all the certificates, she found creative expression in Fashion Designing. In this interview with EBERE AMEH, Chioma advises parents to guide their children to follow their passion and not to kill it

Anukam

Anukam’s self-drawn portrait

and arts. I support them all the way. I encourage them when they have to participate in Art competitions in schools. If they want to become Musicians, Painters or Sculptors, whatever; they have my backing. One can succeed in whatever one sets out to do if one is passionate about it and is determined to work hard,” she admonished. To parents who still insist that their children should read Medicine and Law, she advised them to guide and not kill their children’s dreams. “Parents are supposed to guide and not to kill the destiny of their children. It is wrong for parents to insist and push their children to do what they are not good in or passionate about. God that created them with such gifts and talents knows why. They are supposed to prayerfully guide their children, not stifle their dreams. If they must influence them to read a course of their choice, they should encourage them to develop their talents as hobbies. My parents only succeeded in slowing me down, I know where I would have been by now if I were encouraged,” Anukam said.

Crux of the Fringe in Amoda’s current oeuvre CO NT INU ED F RO M PAGE 2 1

equally expressive technique. A career spanning almost 30 years has seen Amoda participate in several exhibitions in many parts of the world such as Victoria and

Albert Museum (UK), the museum of Art and Design (New York), Skoto Gallery (New York), WIPO Headquarters (Switzerland) in addition to several exhibitions in Nigeria. He has received several recognitions in the

past including a top prize at the DAK’ART Biennale which he received in 2014 with one of the works in the exhibition titled “Sunflower”. Fringe is currently showing at ART TWENTY ONE, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victo-

ria Island, Lagos. Activities will climax with the Artist Talk and Panel Discussion titled “New Tendencies in Contemporary Sculpture” on Wednesday April 8, 2015 by 6pm. The exhibition runs till April 16, 2015.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

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UNIBEN don commends New Telegraph for grooming campus journalists

Education ANXIETY

There is mounting anxiety over the Federal Government’s proposed 50 per cent tariff or import duties on book importation

Anxiety over tariff policy grips book industry

Mojeed Alabi

hese are not the best of times for the nation’s book industry. Many operators in the sector may soon be run out of business, while the cost of books will be taken out of the reach of the people, if the Federal Government policy on imported books sees the light of the day. The Federal Government had introduced tariff or import duties on book importation by 50 per cent, thereby suggesting a hard time for the players in the industry. Though the implementation of the new import tariff is yet to take off, there is palpable indication that the cost of textbooks will not only go up, the reading culture which is currently at its lowest ebb will be greatly affected. The Federal Government had in March 2014, through the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Finance Minister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, announced a 20 per cent duty on printed books, in addition to a 30 per cent levy on imported books to the country. According to the government, apart from raising its revenue profile, the review of the tariff on printed books, is also aimed at building local publishing companies towards sustaining the administration’s support for local content and provision of job opportunities for the teeming unemployed Nigerians. But the new policy, which was earlier billed to take effect in December last year, has since been faced with stiff opposition from major players and stakeholders

KAYODE OLANREWAJU EDITOR, EDUCATION

kayode olanrewaju@ newtelegraphonline.com

Pupils in classroom

in the book industry, who insisted that the initiative would be counterproductive. Although, its implementation has remained suspended, the development the stakeholders have linked to the ongoing general elections. The Nigerian Book Fair Trust (NBFT) an umbrella body of associations of book sellers, authors, publishers, librarians and readers, which is in the forefront of opposition against the policy, has cited several reasons for its insistence that the policy, which it describes as antithetical to the growth of the book industry, should not see the light of the day. Among the reasons expressed by the Trust include the fact that such action is at variance with the Federal Government’s reading campaign on one hand and while on the other it runs against the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Convention on importation of educational materials among the member nations. Other reasons cited by the group is the poor infrastructure, especially power supply in the country that has over the years

Levying books coming into Nigeria will also encourage smuggling and piracy through our land borders

continued to frustrate the activities of manufacturers, as well as the country’s over reliance on foreign authors and their books, among others. Alluding to the United Nations 1954 Florence Agreement, the NBFT pointed out that there should be free flow of Educational, Scientific, and Cultural materials into member nations to allow for free flow and exchange of knowledge and ideas for the development of mankind. This agreement, they claim was further corroborated by the Nairobi Protocol of 1976, which they explained that Nigeria is a signatory to. Towards reinforcing its opposition against the tariff policy, the Chairman of NBFT, who is also the President of the Nigerian Library Association (LAN), Alhaji Rilwanu Abdulsalami, has expressed concern over the 50 per cent tariff on books and publishing materials importation as introduced by the Federal Government. This was as he lamented that new import policy is antithetical to the quest of a nation aspiring to achieve the Education for All (EFA) goals, earlier targeted for this year.

Abdulsalami, the Librarian of the Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State, who was newly elected President of the national body of the association, decried the falling value of the Naira, adding that the rising exchange rate will not only affect the business of books in the country negatively, but will also leave many bookshelves empty. The NBFT chairman, while addressing the media in Lagos during the organisation’s board meeting, said there was no basis for the new tariff, even as he added that with its introduction, the country would be flouting the UNESCO order which he insissted Nigeria swore to observe and protect. In view of this, he listed some reasons why the policy should be rebuffed and shot down before its implementation. He regretted that the reliance on foreign countries for books has been thriving mainly because Nigeria does not have the required capacity to make the books available at cheap prices as done in developed countries. Abdulsalami, while tracing the challenges facing the book CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

24 Education

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Kayode Olanrewaju

welve years after the Mike Okonkwo Educational Youth Initiative, instituted the Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition for Secondary School pupils in the country, the yearly competition has leveraged and improved the quality of secondary school education in the country, it has been learnt. The competition, which kicked off in 2004 as one of the pet-projects of Bishop Mike Okonkwo, the founder of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) for education development, was introduced to urgently reverse the trend of poor performance in basic and secondary school education. The entries for this year’s edition of national essay competition, which was flagged open on March 9, and to close on May 15, according to the organisers, is part of the activities lined up to mark the 70th birthday of Okonkwo. The topic for this year’s competition is: “The Nigerian Political Class and the Citizens Quest for Good Governance”. Part of the aims of the competition is to contribute to the nation’s education sector and to sensitize the students by encouraging them to excel in their world by developing their ability to think critically over issues and make a change in the society at their tender age. Over the years the competition, the organisers noted has gone a long way in helping the youth to develop analytical and problem-solving skills. On the prizes, the star winner school in this year’s edition will receive three internet ready desktop computer and a printer, while the student would smile home with N100,000 cash, a trophy, laptop and a plaque. The first runner up school will get two internet ready desktop computers and a printer and the student will go home with a cash prize of N75,000 and a plaque, while the second runner up school will receive an internet ready computer, while the student gets N50,000 cash prize and a plaque. To participate in the competition, the contestants, based on the requirements are expected to write an essay of maximum of 2,000 words, with a passport photograph of the student, full name, address, class, school and the school principal’s contact. The prize presentation for this year’s edition of the national essay

Okonkwo essay contest: Charting a cause for quality education

Bishop Okonkwo with 2013 winner of the competition, Folatomi Ali-Balogun of Vivian Fowler College for Girls, Lagos

competition, which spans over a decade of developing and rewarding the writing skills of Nigerian youths towards national development, the oragnisers said would take place during the 16th Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture, scheduled for Thursday, September 3, at the Shell Hall, Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos. Towards his contribution to national development, Bishop Okonkwo instituted the Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture in 2000, which entered its 16th edition this year, and which has grown to become a major contributor to government policies as it brings together seasoned professionals to discuss burning national issues. Meanwhile, to encourage the writing skills of children in secondary school and help them become solution providers to the national challenges, the Mike Okonkwo Essay Competition was introduced in 2004. However, worried by the need to reverse the trend of unemployment facing the country, Bishop Okonkwo, said there was the need for huge investment in vocational education and youth empowerment, which are key to nation’s development. The clergyman spoke of how he introduced the national essay contest, as part of his contribution to the

development of the education sector, in order to make young people, especially students more creative and to develop their thinking ability. “Apart from serving as a tool to encourage reading and writing, the competition has also in the past 12 years given the pupils the opportunity to make contributions on issues that are significant to the socio-economic development of our nation,” Okonkwo said. His words: “The standard of education has fallen, given what happens in JAMB, WAEC and NECO examinations. The rate of failure is very ridiculous. And a nation where the education system has fallen is heading for trouble, because we are looking at its long-term effects, and not the immediate effects. If we do not take urgent steps to arrest the trend, it means that in the next few years, we would have a bunch of illiterate people.” The Bishop, who expressed strong belief in vocational education and recalled how his foundation established a vocational centre where youths are trained in various trades, including welding, fashion designing, computer studies and masonry, added that the centre was established to complement the Mike Okonkwo Educational

Youth Initiative. His words: “When one looks back and listens to some of the testimonies and feedback we receive, one is happy that the objectives of the competition are being achieved. The poor, but brilliant pupils are getting university scholarships through it and in fact there is one of the past winners who also received a scholarship from Oxford University for his Master’s Degree after he completed his first degree under the full scholarship he received after winning one of the editions of the competition. To me, that is a good feedback.” The list of winners of the maiden edition of the competition in 2004 are: Mercy Dembem of Bishop Howells’ Memorial Grammar School, Bariga, Lagos, who came first; Miss Jaiyesimi Adedoyin, CTC International School, Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja Lagos and Master Philip Nwaga from Freedom & Peace International Secondary School, who came second and third respectively. The winners of the last two editions in 2013, Folatomi Alli-Balogun of Vivian Fowler Memorial Collage; Nwabiankea Mark from Lagos Senior Model College, Badore and Edet Samuel, a pupil of Government Technical College Calabar, were placed first, second and third respectively. While in 2014, Patience Brown, a pupil of Apapa Senior High School, Lagos, led the pack; Precious Nwaigwe, from St. Francis Catholic Secondary School, Idimu, Lagos, is the first runner up; and Akinwande Akinboluwarin, a pupil of Greater Tomorrow International School, Arigidi-Akoko, Ondo State, came third. The themes of the previous editions of the competition, according to the organisers include “Securing the Nigerian Future: Improving the Standards of Education (2004 edition); “Building Leaders for Tomorrow a Collective Responsibility (2005 edition); “Lawlessness and the Rule of Law in the Nigerian Society (2006 edition); “Political Office and Governance: For Gain or Service? (2007 edition) and for 2008 edition, the theme was: “The Role of Judiciary in Sustenance of Democracy.”

FUTA honours AAUA VC with SAAT ambassador award

he School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology (SAAT) of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has honoured the Vice-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun with the school’s Ambassador Award. The honour was bestowed on him during the eight FUTA-Agric Conference, with the theme: “Food Security and Climate Change: The Way Forward,” held in the university. According to SAAT, Ajibefun was honoured in recognition of his outstanding achievements in higher institution administration and as worthy ambassador of SAAT/ FUTA. Other recipients of the award include the Vice-Chan-

cellor of FUTA, Prof. Adebiyi Daramola; the Deputy ViceChancellor (Academic), Prof.

Adedayo Fasakin; the ViceChancellor of Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Prof. Valen-

tine Alector; his counterpart at Salem University, Lokoja, Prof. J.O. Fawape; Deputy Provost,

L-R: FUTA VC, Prof. Adebiyi Daramola; Olupona; AAUA Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Ambassador Oladele Akadiri and the VC, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun at the Foundation Day lecture.

College of Education, IkereEkiti, Dr. Oluyede Atunramu; Chief Executive Officer, Wokkman ICT Venture, Dr. Deji Fasuyi; Dean, College of Agriculture of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Dr. Adio Folayan; and the National Coordinator of WAAP Nigeria, Prof. D.O. Chukwuwendu. Responding on behalf of awardees, Ajibefun, an alumnus of the school, thanked SAAT for the honour bestowed on them, even as he acknowledged that FUTA had impacted on all the awardees either as alumni or members of staff, stressing the need to give back to the institution. He assured the university and SAAT of their readiness to continue to contribute meaningfully to the institution in all spheres of its development.

Education 25

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Kayode Olanrewaju

ome 7,022 graduating students of the Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH), Ikorodu, Lagos are to receive their scrolls for the award of National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) certificates during the 23rd graduation ceremony of the institution for 2013/2014 academic session. According to the Rector, Dr. Abdulazeez Abioye Lawal, the ceremony will take place on Thursday April 9, at the Ikorodu main campus of the state polytechnic. Addressing journalists at the pre-convocation press conference organised to kick off the week-long activities, he said the convocation lecture entitled: “Wriggling Out of Nigeria’s Economic Quagmire: The Polytechnic Option,” will be delivered today by Prof. Olalekan Asakiya, a lecturer at Babcock University, IlisanRemo, Ogun State. Other activities lined up for the ceremony which had since flagged off last week Thursday include a special prayer ses-

LASPOTECH rector restates commitment to quality education l As institution graduates 7,022 students sion at the Ikorodu Campus Mosque and interdenominational service at the SM&BS Auditorium, which held on Thursday; convocation variety show/drama presentation by the Mass Communication Department, billed for tomorrow; and a football match on the same day at the polytechnic football pitch, Ikorodu campus. Giving the breakdown of the graduating students, as approved by the Academic Board for graduation, the Rector said for full-time ND and HND, 1,860 will graduate; School of Part-Time Studies (Regular) – 2225; SPTS (Day) – 878; SPTS (Evening) – 343; SPTS (Annex) – 1,716. Lawal, who frowned at the discrimination against polytechnic products in the

Lawal

country, warned that any organisation, including bank or insurance companies that

discriminates against products of the polytechnic in its recruitment exercise as being done by some government intitutions despite the move by the Federal Government to remove such disparity, said the polytechnic would move against such institutions. While noting that the polytechnic has been repositioned for quality education, the Rector said the institution runs 62 fully accredited academic programmes in 32 departments. Lawal, who is expected to bow out of office in June this year, having completed his four-year term, said plans had been concluded to convert the Annexes of the polytechnic to Distance Learning programme. As part of efforts to im-

prove the academic culture of the polytechnic through human capacity development, the Rector pointed out that 85 academic staff have been sponsored for their Masters and PhD programmes within and outside the country including the United Kingdom, United States, South Africa and Malaysia, among others, saying many of them have already completed their programmes and have returned to the polytechnic to enhance its quality of scholarship. “The polytechnic of excellence is committed to educational development as the management over the years has invested a lot in its human capacity building through training and retraining of staff with the support of the Lagos State Government and the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund),” Lawal said.

52 visually-impaired beneficiaries of MTN scholarship graduate Mojeed Alabi

Cross-section of the students on a tour of Kaduna NBC’s waste water treatment plant after their induction as water ambassadors

NBC institutes Water Conservation Clubs in schools Mojeed Alabi and Flora Onwudiwe

s part of commitment to drive its water stewardship programme, tagged: “Water for Sustainable Development,” the Nigerian Bottling Company Limited (NBC), maker of Coca Cola soft drink and Eva Water, has instituted Water Conservation Clubs in some selected secondary schools across the country. The Head, Public Affairs Communications for NBC, Mr. Uzo Odenigbo disclosed this while addressing over 200 students from 10 selected public secondary schools in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, and Kaduna where the company has its factories. The water stewardship programme, according to him, was to mark the United Nation’s World Water Day and to provide an opportunity for students to embark on a guided tour of the company’s water treatment and Effluent Treatment Plants. Besides, the programme was to avail the students to also understudy water conservation initiatives of NBC

with a view to replicating same in their schools and communities. Odenigbo said the annual World Water Day presents a platform for NBC to enlist water ambassadors in its operating communities who will partner with the company in propagating the message of safe water practices. While reiterating the commitment of NBC to sustainable partnerships and integrated approaches to solving water problems in its communities under its water stewardship programme, he added that the task of conserving natural resources such as water is a collective responsibility. While acknowledging that water forms a significant part of NBC’s operations, Odenigbo listed the company’s water conservation initiatives to include, “installation of waste water treatment plants in all its bottling plants across the country. This, he hinted was to ensure that only water that can sustain aquatic and plant life is released back to the environment; increased focus on improving access to safe drinking water in over 20 communities through the provision of boreholes and water stor-

age facilities, as well as benefit about 300,000 people across the country and reducing the company’s ratio of water use from 5.15 in 2008 to 2.42 in 2014. “This year, we have gone a step further to ensure the sustainability of awareness campaign on safe water practices with the students, by encouraging and supporting them to start Water Conservation Clubs in their schools,” he added. NBC Managing Director, Mr. Ben Langat noted that “the Water Conservation Clubs will further provide volunteering opportunities for our partners to invest their time and expertise to aid knowledge transfer on safe water practices among students in a sustainable way.” Langat explained that NBC’s three major focal areas - Reduce Replenish and Recycle - water in its operations, even as he sought a multi-sectoral approach to tackling the challenges of access to fresh and potable water for the Nigerian people. Towards this end, Langat charged stakeholders to support the development and enforcement of policies that will provide sustainable potable water for all citizenry.

ore than 50 visually impaired students who were beneficiaries of the MTN Foundation Scholarship for Blind Students have graduated from the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo State. Some of the graduands, who benefited from the scholarship, which covered their tuition and book allowances for one year after they successfully underwent the selection exercise conducted nationwide, also enjoyed the renewal of the scholarship after maintaining a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.5. Speaking during the graduation ceremony, the Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Nonny Ugboma commended the students for their resilience and specially praised beneficiaries who have received the scholarship more than once. Ugboma, who was represented by the company’s Regional Trade Marketing Manager, South-West, Akinolu Oludiran, charged the graduates to take advantage of the training they had received as they pursue other goals in life. “We enhanced Phase Three of the scheme by including an employability training, which will prepare the beneficiaries for the labour market on graduation. The workshop content include, contemporary ICT skills, JAWS Software training, motivational talks and employment opportunities for blind students,” said Oludiran. Also speaking, the Corporate Services Executive, MTN Nigeria, Akinwale Goodluck, commended the beneficiaries for the zeal they showed all through the programme. “Education is pivotal to the growth and development of any nation and everyone deserves equal access to it. The challenges against qualitative education in the country affect all categories of students,” said Goodluck, adding that, “This is why the MTN Foundation expanded its scholarship scheme to accommodate one more category of students: the blind.”

26 Education

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Tariff policy grips book industry C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 3

industry in the country to infrastructural decay, erratic power supply, nonavailability of printing materials and scarcity of spare parts for printing machines, among others, said the introduction of the import duty on books would be a fast way of killing the nation’s education sector. Abdulsalami said: “We have continued to explain the challenges facing the book industry to the government at different fora, and that I think informed the suspension of its implementation till now. But, we must add that the Federal Government cannot wake up overnight and impose this import duty on the industry under the guise of building local manufacturers when in actual fact, there exists no enabling environment for the manufacturers to thrive.” Worried by the development, Abdulsalami noted that with more than 10 million children estimated to be out of school and another 35 per cent of the nation’s 160 million population considered to be illiterate, representing over 56 million illiterates, the percentage of illiterate people in the country will soar as most people will no longer be able to afford the new prices of books, due to the new tariff policy on imported books. He argued that more than 90 per cent of books currently in Nigerian schools, libraries and individual homes were not produced locally apparently because of the challenges listed above to be affecting the country. Apart from the fact that most of the books are printed abroad, some of the publishers lamented how they spend a huge amount of money on importation of printing paper, ink, and other ancillary printing materials. To them, it is either the materials could not be sourced locally, or the quality of those produced in the country is poor. Abdulsalami said: “Indeed, we can only build such capacity gradually with concerted efforts of everybody. In actual fact, levying books coming into

Shekarau, Minister

Abdulsalami

Nigeria will also encourage smuggling and piracy through our land borders. Piracy, if allowed, may drive few existing publishing firms in the country into extinction and that means job losses to many professionals.” Book pirates, according to him, are economic saboteurs who infringe on copyright law, as they pay no taxes to government or royalties to authors on the sale of their pirated books. He added that piracy reduces sales by genuine publishers and booksellers and also discourages creativity and intellectual growth. In fact, Abdulsalami, however, regretted that the introduction of the tariff will go a long way to negate the Federal Government’s policy on: “Bring Back the Book” campaign, which President Goodluck Jonathan had been championing in the last few years of his administration. Abdulsalami recalled how major stakeholders in the sector had at different occasions met with the Federal Government representatives to discuss the likely consequences of the proposed

policy, and where it could lead the country, especially as it was coming at a time when Port Harcourt has been voted the World Book Capital by the international community. But, while setting agenda for the incoming administration, the group, which expressed stromg belief that all hope has not lost, said it is looking up to the administration of General Muhammadu Buhari to repeal the policy, which it described as “anti-literacy law,” which will further draw the country backward on its journey to academic excellence. As part of the way out of the quagmire, Abdulsalami pledged the group’s support for the government’s plan to grow the economy locally and reduce the country’s over reliance on foreign products. But, he, however, cautioned that the new policy does not deserve what he termed fire brigade approach as being employed by the Federal Government. “But if I may ask, how many medical, law, engineering or even management books are written by Nigerians? Then what will be the place of this cross-bor-

der transaction of knowledge, particularly now that the world is building a knowledge-based economy,” he queried. Corroborating the NBFT chairman, the Executive Chairman of Safari Books Limited, Chief Joop Berkhout, lamented that even without the tariff, the book industry is currently struggling to survive as Nigerians now hardly buy books. An average Nigerian parent, he stated, will prefer to patronize the movie industry rather than purchasing books except it is unavoidably necessary for them. According to Berkhout, with more than 30 years business experience in the country, Nigerian book industry had never suffered poor patronage as it currently does, and the situation may further degenerate if the proposed policy is allowed to stand. In a similar development, the book industry is also claiming that the rising exchange rate is impacting negatively on the sector and urged the Federal Government to extent concessions to the book importers the same way their counterparts in the oil and gas industry are enjoy government’s magnanimity. While expressing his concern, Abdulsalami said the prices of orders placed by importers in the last few weeks, will definitely shot up whenever they arrive because of the exchange rate, and which will affect the cost of books especially now that the primary and secondary schools will be reopening for another term, as parents will face increase in books prices. Therefore, the NBFT chairman, appealed to the government to muster enough political will to support the book industry, by introducing several incentives such as concessions on exchange rate, zero importation duty, and low interest loans towards making the business more attractive to its practitioners. He said move would go a long way in dousing the frustration that has already gripped the book industry in the country and which the introduction of the new tariff policy will aggravate.

FG grants Lighthouse Poly approval to run HND programmes Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

he Federal Government has granted the Lighthouse Polytechnic, Evbuobanosa, Benin City, Edo State an approval to run Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes. The approval, which was conveyed to the management of the polytechnic last week by the Federal Ministry of Education through the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), the agency responsible of the supervision of polytechnic education in the country, said the approval was consequent upon the recent visit of the NBTE accreditation team to the institution in October, last year. According to the NBTE letter, “Lighthouse Polytechnic

is now approved to offer HND courses in Accountancy, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering Technology.” Similarly, the NBTE also accredited more National Diploma (ND) programmes for the polytechnic in which the institution has met the board’s accreditation requirements. The newly approved courses for the National Diploma programmes include Banking and Finance, Public Administration and Statistics. The NBTE further stated in the letter that “admission of students into the programme should commence from the 2014/2015 academic session”. Meanwhile, the polytechnic, which is one of the educational arms and owned by the Gospel Light International Ministries, New Covenant Gospel Church, is currently admitting students into its

HND and ND programmers for the 2014/2015 academic session.

Courses run by the polytechnic as approved by the NBTE in the HND category are Accoun-

tancy, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering Technology, while academic programmes in the National Diploma category include Banking and Finance, Public Administration, Statistics, Accountancy, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering Technology, Estate Management, Business Administration and Management and ND Computer Engineering.

Pupils of ChildVille School, Ogudu GRA, Lagos during the school’s cultural day celebration

Education

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Caleb VC seeks TETFund grants for private varsities Kayode Olanrewaju

aleb University ViceChancellor has raised his voice in support of the clamour for the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) allocations to private universities in the country. Prof. Ayedeji Olukoju, who made the call at the Imota, Ikorodu, Lagos main campus of the private university, described as ‘an aberration and anti-development’ the decision of the Federal Government to delist private universities from beneficiaries of the fund. “Access to TETFund allocations should be given to lecturers and students of private universities because the students studying in private universities are here by choice and they are studying in the universities as citizens of this country,” he stressed. The Vice-Chancellor, however, argued that as citizens of this country, the students and their lecturers should have access to whatever facilities that is available to any other Nigerian citizen, even as he stressed that the nation should not discriminate against them on the

basis that they attend or choose private universities. Olukoju, who pointed out that the government should encourage and treat everyone as citizen of the country, added that the resources of Nigeria should be utilized to develop Nigerians irrespective of where he or she comes from. Though, the Vice-Chancellor hinted that he was aware that TETFund has enabling law constricting its operations, he however insisted that such law should be made flexible to an extent that whichever university that can justify the need for such grant should be given. His words: “I strongly believe that what is more compelling is that most of our students and members of staff are not restricted to private universities alone. When we produce graduates here he or she may to go to public universities, and vis-versa. What I am saying in effect, is that private universities contribute to the labour pool in the country while the products are to develop the entire country and not public or private Nigeria. “To move the nation forward, we need to put all our

Olukoju

resource; financial, material, human and natural together to develop human capacity of the country and the government owes a responsibility to develop capacity for the country. Therefore, I believe strongly that whatever activities that are put in place to develop capacity for Nigerians; they should be readily made available to all.” While reiterating that TETFund is a product of taxation accruing from private sector, he said the fund should take care of the interest of all Nigerian

Don harps on socio-cultural revolution for development Mojeed Alabi

Professor of African Religion and Traditions at the Harvard Divinity School, Harvard University, United States of America, Jacob Olupona, has advocated socio-cultural revolution that will ensure an enduring development in the country. Olupona, who delivered the 2015 Foundation Day Lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, recommended a social and cultural revolution that recognise the benefits of our native knowledge system and that rehabilitates indigenous system of knowledge for development and our political renewal. He said faith and reason complement each other and religious knowledge or practice without scientific reasoning is incomplete, adding that there is significant relationship between faith and science to enhance human development. He, therefore, suggested that efforts must be geared towards bringing the two together to fight ignorance and promote deep knowledge for the benefit of Nigeria and the world, while insisting that religion is not only about charismatic expression or spirituality, but also include important rational practices, which included herbal knowledge and understanding of medical science. Olupona said the crisis of development that Nigeria is facing as a country today is due largely to the neglect of its cosmology-based value system and traditional life. Citing the examples of the strength of most southern civilization such as India, China, Brazil and Asian Society in general, the don called on Nigerian government and people to value the strength of

primordial civilization by reviving the dying cultural heritage of the country. He said archival material suggests that Europeans were deeply interested in African medicine, and, therefore, warned against the neglect of medical facilities by promoting faith alone. He said: “If we think only of the present moment and limit our understanding of spirituality to things like prayer and charismatic expression and ignore laboratory, science, engineering studies and teaching hospitals, we are wrong. This is because the knowledge that comes from all these practices – from prayer to the laboratory, exemplifies God being made into flesh in our present world, speaking and moving among us.” To keep faith in check over rea-

either he or she is studying in public or private universities. Rather than excluding private universities from benefitting from the fund, Olukoju suggested that the money should not be given to proprietors of private universities. The Vice-Chancellor noted: “The only thing I will agree to, is that we don’t give the money to proprietors of private universities. I won’t object to that. TETFund can give the grant to the universities as a loan, may be at five per cent and payable for a period of about 20 years.” On the argument that private universities already have enough resources, he said to the best of his knowledge no private university has made any profit as they are investing a lot of resources on infrastructure and running cost. The Vice-Chancellor, who pointed out that the Federal Government gave some grants to Nollywood, who are making money for themselves, wondered why the government should single outprivate universities that are complementing in the development of the education sector and the country in all ramifications from

son, the don added: “We must recognize that Nigeria faces serious religious crises today because of over-dependence on faith alone, the dissociation of faith from reason and promotion of irrational faith traditions. The solution lies in recognizing that faith and reason complement each other and that the religious knowledge or practice without scientific reasoning is incomplete.” In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebiyi Daramola expressed delight over the scholarly lecture, which he described as stimulating and apt. He said: “With the personality of Professor Olupona, I expected nothing less from him. He is an erudite scholar with sterling academic and administrative qualities. He is one of the Nigerian scholars in the Diaspora making our nation proud and he has truly proven to us that Nigeria is blessed with potentials. This is a great figure that many of us look up to and he is also a shining example for our youth to emulate.”

Daramola (left) presenting a commemorative plaque to Olupona after the lecture.

benefitting from TETFund. “I believe private universities also need assistance. Yes, the agency may not give the fund in form of cash,” Olukoju added, saying if a private university wants to set up a centre of excellence or acquire laboratory infrastructure, TETFund should be ready to provide such grants in form of loan payable over a period of years. On the institution’s research efforts, the Vice-Chancellor, who noted that though the university was still young, said despite its members of staff are publishing their research outputs in leading journals within and outside the country. “Most recently, a team from a professional body singled out a lecturer of the university for praise following the quality of his presentations or publications. That is a clear indication of the kind of quality of our research efforts,” he said. He also recalled how the Lagos State Government, last year, awarded grants and commissioned to conduct research into problems of solving projects in the areas of road traffic, infrastructure, urban and land use.

Education College admits 2,788 fresh students

he College of Education, Azare, Bauchi State, has admitted 2,788 fresh students into the Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) programmes for 2014/2015 academic session. While undertaking their oath of allegiance during the matriculation ceremony, the Provost, Dr. Abdullahi Mohammed Isyaku, congratulated the matriculating students on their admission that they have met all the necessary requirements for admission to the college. According to the Provost, who administered the oath on the students, this year’s admission had increased astronomically due to high demand for education and knowledge by the teeming youth coupled with the relative scarce of space in other tertiary institutions in the state and its other neighbouring states. Isyaku said the college was compelled by these prevailing circumstances to admit 2,788 students into Part I for NCE this academic session, even as he called on the students to familiar themselves with the college handbook. The Senior Public Relations Officer for the college, Suleiman Shehu, in a statement said the Provost enjoined the students to keep to the oath they have sworn to by being law abiding students, who will project the image of the college in good light. Isyaku said as students who want to become teachers and to serve humanity they should have it in their mind that the college is known for hard work, discipline, peace, harmony, just as he advised them to be committed and dedicated to their studies. He said the college provides free education to the less-privileged and physically challenged students and provides them with available means of transportation to ease their movement within and outside the college. According to him, the management was committed to the welfare of staff and students through the provision of free health care services, free shuttle buses for the students, as well as improved sanitary condition of the college, adequate security and regular electricity supply to enhance their studies.

28 Education

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Emmanuel Edigberhi UNIBEN

he Dean of Students’ Affairs (DSA), University of Benin (UNIBEN), Prof Francis Osagiede, has commended New Telegraph newspaper for offering Nigerian students the opportunity to practice campus journalism in their institutions. He gave the commendation while receiving the New Telegraph Campus Correspondents of the university who visited him in his office so as to congratulate him on his appointment as the DSA. The Campus Journalist team on the visit include Eddy Uwoghiren, 300-Level, Medicine and Surgery and Ezekiel Efeobhokhan, 400-Level Pharmacy. The Head of the team, Uwoghiren noted that the purpose of the visit was to congratulate the dean on his appointment and to foster a cordial working relationship with the office in their practice as campus journalists. He said: “Over the years, our practice has been hindered by certain setbacks resulting from our inability to have access to top management staff of the university. Whenever we cover news items that require comments from at

UNIBEN don commends New Telegraph for grooming campus journalists

Osagiede (middle) with the student journalists

least a top management staff or to be interviewed, we are always confronted with brick walls which makes it difficult for us to see them because of the admin-

istrative bottleneck put in place by their secretaries.” Responding, the dean praised Uwoghiren and Efeobhokhan for their

reportage over the years, even as he encouraged them to be more professional in ensuring that they do proper investigation before sending any news for publication. While admonishing them to portray the university in good light, he noted: “You might not see the benefit of your practice today, but I want to tell you that with time, you will begin to enjoy the benefits. It is good to know how both of you are combining professional courses with your practice as a journalist. Please keep developing yourselves.” Osagiede added: “I am an avid reader of New Telegraph newspaper and I must hail them for giving the students the platform to develop themselves and make them channel their energy into productive venture. They should keep at it”. Until his appointment as Dean of Students’ Affairs, Osagiede, a Professor of Mathematics at the Faculty of Physics Sciences, had served as the Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies.

Anambra varsity VC solicits funds for projects Emeka Onwudinjo UNIZIK

he Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, formerly Anambra State University, Prof. Fidelis Uzochukwu Okafor, has solicited the help of philanthropists, as well as sons and daughters of the state in funding the university. Okafor made the call during the 6th pre-convocation press conference held at the Igbariam campus of the university, while he noted that Igbo people, especially indigenes of Anambra State have more private jets than any part of the country. The Vice-Chancellor, who called on philanthropists as well as other public-spirited and well-meaning Nigerians to assist the institution in tackling the infrastructural

needs of the state university and save it from the rot. “It is common knowledge that Anambra indigenes own more private jets in the country, and that rather than lavish fortunes on ostentatious lifestyle, it was incumbent on such people to invest in the institution by building and donating structures in their names for posterity sake,” he said, stressing that such undertakings were worthwhile and epoch-making. The Vice-Chancellor, who explained that the state government’s subvention was inadequate to run the university, especially in executing developmental projects, said there was the need for external assistance through collaboration with corporate organizations, and well-meaning individuals for the university to realise its aspiration of being one of the most sought after Ivory Tow-

Okafor addressing the students at the event

ers in the country. Apart from infrastructural needs, Okafor, however, drew the attention of stakeholders to the menace of Hausa/Fulani cattle men in Igbariam community, which he noted that over the years the Igbariam campus of the university has continued to be invaded by cattle. On the effects of the invasion of the animals, the ViceChancellor lamented how they defecate indiscriminately; attract sun-flies and other harmful insects that unleash mayhem on staff and students of the institution, a situation in which he said the students are not happy with. Okafor, who pointed out that the university had made several representations to the state government and to the leaders of the Hausa/Fulani community in the state, wondered that all the efforts had ended in futility.

The student leaders during the prayer session

Fresh pharmacy students counselled Ezekiel Efeobhokhan UNIBEN

resh students admitted to the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin (UNIBEN), have been counselled to be more focused in their studies. The advice was given during a reception organised by the National Fellowship of the Christian Pharmacy Students (NFCPS) to welcome the new students to the institution at the Lecture Theatre Three. Dr. Henri Okeri, while addressing the students urged them to be up and doing as the faculty would not in any way retain students who are not ready to burn the midnight candle. He said: “It is what you sow, that you will reap. You do not expect to reap academic success after spending your time in frivolities and night parties.” However, Okeri warned the students to shun cultism, saying Pharmacy students are always known for their meek-

ness, cool headedness and humility. His words: “You should never think of being a cultist, in fact it is only coward that thinks that a cult can protect him or her. Be a man and stand always to face your challenges by reading your books and serve the Lord, and as you do all these all your way through Pharmacy Faculty will be smooth.” Other high points of the events were a drama presentation, choir ministration and Bible recitation, in which Akozi May emerged as the winner. Dignitaries at the event were Mr. Uyi Macpherson, Dr. Mathew Arewo and former NFCPS President, Precious Okunbor, who are all Pharmacists. Meanwhile, the association also organised a seminar, with the theme: “Ten Times Better,” which was attended by lecturers from the various departments of the faculty where they addressed the academic needs of students.

Education 29

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Amid tears, students bid colleague farewell Ezekiel Efeobhokhan UNIBEN

ears flew freely few weeks ago, as residents of Famous Villa on Ehico Street, Ekosodin in Benin City, the Edo State capital, as well as students of Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin (UNIBEN), mourned the untimely death of one of their own. Kenneth Asemu, a 600-Level Pharmacy undergraduate, who would have been inducted into the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN), died of fire complications. The students, who said they received the news of his death with shock, regretted that Asemu would have been inducted about 24 days to his death, as he was among the 113 graduating students from the Faculty of Pharmacy who would have received their scrolls during the university’s induction ceremony billed for March 25, this year. Narrating his last moments with Asemu, one of his friends and co-resident, Vincent Aifuwa, recalled how after exchanging greetings with Asemu on the fateful evening of February 17, he heard a loud explosion which was followed by a shout of help…help…help coming from Asemu’s apartment. “I quickly rushed to Kenneth’s room, only to meet him sprawling on the ground outside with water all over him,” Aifuwa said. According to Kenneth, while trying to prepare Indomie noodles his gas cooker over floated and suddenly exploded. The late Asemu and other tenants in the hostel, popularly called Famous Villa, were said to have been rushed to a nearby hospital, Fuller Health Hospital, Ekosodin, where he were referred to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). “Kenneth’s case was not an emergency as he walked to the hospital himself,” Aifuwa recalled. He added further: “I went to visit him the next day and I saw that he was responding to treatment. He even analyzed the prescription given to him since he was already a Pharmacist awaiting induction. After doing that he gave us his ATM card to assist him to withdraw the sum of five thousand naira which was for the cost of the drugs and treatment. “Thereafter, we were not allowed to visit him afterwards, but Kenneth told us on phone that it was because the ward where he was admitted contained other critically

ill patients, hence visitors were usually restricted. I couldn’t just understand why he had to die, since all we have been told was that he was responding to treatment. “I called him on Friday and he told me that they were to discharge him next Tuesday. I was shocked when a friend broke the sad news on Saturday that Asemu was dead. I could not believe what I heard about his death until I had to rush to the hospital to confirm the news. “Kenneth and I were close friends; he was so

friendly, humble and down to earth. I always called him ‘the General’. He had even given my child a free medical examination; also, he had saved my younger brother from adverse effects of drug complications which were sold to him by a chemist.” Born on May 29, 1984 in Delta State, the late Asemu was formerly a student of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria in Kaduna State, where he obtained the Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) Advanced Level certificate in Pure Sciences in 2007.

The students during the procession

30 Education

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Covenant varsity introduces programme on Internet of Things Mojeed Alabi

he Covenant University, Ota in Ogun State is attempting to blaze another trail by introducing a new course of study tagged: “Internet of Things,” which it claimed would lead its graduates the opportunity to earn Bachelor of Science in Technology (Internet of Things). The new field of study, according to the guest lecturer at the institution’s 41st public lecture and Visiting Professor to the university, Tokunbo Ogunfunmi, is the next phase of technological revolution in the world, after the industrial, computer and internet revolutions. Ogunfunmi, who hinted that out of the seven billion population in the world, about six billion are already hooked to the internet, noted that there are about 200 billion devices required to be linked with internet to improve the global economies. Speaking on the theme: “Technology Convergence and the Promise of Internet of Things: Prospects for Developing Economies,” Ogunfunmi lamented what he described as internet divide in Africa, saying the development had in no small measure contributed to the poor growth of economy on the continent. He, however, praised Nigeria for doing better among other African nations, but added that for the country to move along the global leading econo-

mies, it must adopt the new revolution, which he explained would ensure that various devices such as refrigerator, shoes, pens, glasses and clocks, could be linked to the internet to communicate with the users towards achieving economic benefits. He tasked government and school owners to make internet free in secondary schools and higher institutions for the benefit of the students and lecturers, while also allaying the fear that it would be used to achieve negative purposes. The don noted: “Yes, every coin has got its two sides and the negatives could only come in terms of privacy and security and all these could also be addressed by the same internet. It is benefits far outweigh the demerits.” In his message, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Ayo hinted that the institution was already working on the curriculum for the new programme and that it would soon be submitted to the National Universities Commission (NUC) for the university regulatory agency’s nod. The representative of the university’s Chancellor and proprietor, Dr. David Oyedepo and the Education Secretary of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, Prof. Bridget Sokan, commended the institution for partnering the best brains across the world, even as she pledged the chancellor’s continued support for the university and stressed that the best global economies today are knowledge-based.

R-L: Access Bank MD, Mr. Harbert Igwe; Provost, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola and other officials of the bank during the presentation of lab coats to the students of the college.

UNESCO Chair : NMC to partner KWASU T he National Mathematical Centre (NMC) in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory is to partner the Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete towards ensuring the successful take-off of its newly approved UNESCO Chair programme in Mathematics. In a letter to the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. AbdulRasheed Na’Allah, conveying the partnership deed, the Director and Chief Executive of the National Mathematical Centre, Prof. Adewale Solarin, described KWASU as one of the cherished partner-institutions that are germane to the successful implementation of the Chair. Specifically, the Centre invited KWASU-UNESCO Chair Holder in Alternative Energy, Dr. M.G. Zebaze Kana, to work with its team based on his experience as one of the functional UNESCO Chairs in the Nigerian university system. Kana is the Head of Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering and Technology.

According to the NMC boss, the UNESCO Chair in Mathematics is designed to promote an integrated system of research, training, information and documentation in the field of mathematics. While specifying his role, he explained that the Chair is expected to facilitate collaboration between high-level internationally-recognised researchers and teaching staff of the NMC and other institutions in the country, as well as other countries in Africa, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and in other regions of the world. Solarin, who highlighted the specific objectives of the Chair to include the promotion of close cooperation with partners, mathematics, science education in Nigeria, the other sub-regions as well as internationally, through the development of a critical mass of Algebra experts, who will teach and conduct research in Nigerian universities, as well as the West African sub-region and the entire world.

EDUPEACE

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

Integrity is it!

f there is anything that sustains a leader and makes followers, without any inducement, to stand by him, integrity is it! If there is a core requirement that followers want to see in their leaders, integrity is it! If hard work is needed to take you to the top, what quality do you need to keep you there? Integrity is it! The ninth and penultimate letter in the word “leadership” is “I” and your guess is right, it stands for integrity! Integrity refers to “steadfast adherence to a strict moral and ethical code” or “the quality of being wholesome, unimpaired”. The synonyms of integrity are honesty, uprightness, rectitude, purity, goodness, probity, sincerity, virtue, decency, among others, according a dictionary. Without integrity, leadership is pure vanity; without integrity, every leader is a nonentity. Therefore, it is necessary for present and aspiring leaders, students especially, being the future of the society, to be schooled in integrity. Human beings are known for who they are and those without integrity are often considered unfit for leadership positions. If people lacking in integrity, for one reason or another, occupy leadership positions, those they lead are in trouble. Character is the heart of integrity and discipline is the wing with which it flies. A man of integrity sticks to his principles such that those principles then define his personality. The Nigerian media brands the former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Hon. Justice Mustapha Akanbi (rtd.), “Mr Integrity”. He is known for decency and aversion to corruption. Dear reader, human beings are like products and every product is a brand. What comes to your mind when you hear Nokia, Samsung, Sharp or Techno? Why do the manufacturers of inferior products choose to deceive the unsuspecting public with the corruption of the established brand names? Panaldol, Abidas, Phillip are some fake products exploiting the names of established products. It is just like people without integrity exploiting the name and photograph of a General Muhammadu Buhari to swindle the public though they don’t share his political ideology or affiliation. It is no longer news that Nigeria recently conducted peaceful and successful elections, largely, and the whole world is happy. The President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, enjoyed the overwhelming support of the majority of Nigerians not because of the size of his bank account or the amount of money he was able to share to various groups but because of his integ-

Without integrity, leadership is pure vanity; without integrity, every leader is a nonentity rity. Here is a man who was viciously maligned and savagely attacked in traditional and new media to an unprecedented level. Here is a man against whom several billions of naira was expended for brutal character assassination. All kinds of lies were told about him but all were to no avail all because of Buhari’s unimpeachable integrity. Funnily, a young man was so pissed off with the anti-Burahi tirade that he wrote, as I shared in an article, “Buhariphilia versus Buhariphobia”: “If you like, tell me that Buhari went only to almajiri school, I will still vote for Buhari. Tell me that Buhari never attended any school before, I will still vote for Buhari. Tell me Buhari was actually raised in the bush by wild animals only, I will still vote for Buhari. Tell me Buhari is actually an alien from Mars, I will vote for Buhari. Tell me Buhari is 100 years old, I will still vote for Buhari. Tell me Buhari jailed every single Nigerian that was alive during his tenure, I will still vote for Buhari. Tell me that during Buhari’s tenure, people had to apply to Government and get approval before they urinate, defecate, eat or drink (sic), I will still vote for Buhari. Tell me during Buhari’s tenure, couples must apply to Government and get approval before they could make love, I will still vote for Buhari… Save your words, save your energy, save your keyboards, save your time, and leave me alone!” Obviously he was not alone. The former President of Ghana, Jerry Rawlings, in his assessment of the outcome of our recent presidential elections said something that has gone viral. According to him, “Nigerians have taken the lead in the rejection of corruption. The election result is a manifestation of the people’s resolve to confront corruption, dishonesty and exploitation… Nigerians did not vote for anyone. They voted for a man whose INTEGRITY (emphasis mine) is extremely high. Nigeria is tired of corruption and the choice of this leader is a clear indication of where she wants to go.” In essence, the big question is: to be a leader, what do you need? The answer is unmistakable: integrity is it!

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Energy

Mixed Grill for energy in Q1, 2015

Property

Aviation

Housing: Growth stunted by election fever, weak naira

Q1 2015: Still a long way for aviation

Business What's news

Construction: FG tasked on specialised bank Going by the high rate of housing initiatives across the country and the associated dearth of funds to promote economic development, both the Federal Government and concerned stakeholders have been tasked on the need for the establishment of a construction bank, aimed at making funds available for the sector.

p.32

PenCom to release guidelines for foreign investments in Q4 As a way of deepening investment options available to pension segment of the financial sector, the National Pension Commission (PeCom) plans to introduce guidelines for foreign investments in the fourth quarter of 2015.

p.32

Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Finance, Lagos State House of Assembly, Oluyinka Ogundimu (left) and Head, SME Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Akintunde Oyebode, at the commissioning of the Stanbic IBTC Bank Offin Cash Centre, Oke-Arin, Lagos.

Pipeline vandalism: N4.25trn gas investments threatened ON HOLD

The Business Desk Ayodele Aminu

Deputy Editor (Business)

Bayo Akomolafe

Pipeline vandalism discourages Foreign Direct Investments (FID) in gas sector

Asst. Editor (Maritime)

Sunday Ojeme

Asst. Editor (Insurance)

Tony Chukwunyem

Asst. Editor (Money Market)

Dele Alao

Industry & Agric Editor

Dayo Ayeyemi Property Editor

Adeola Yusuf Energy Editor

Wole Shadare Aviation Editor

Chris Ugwu

Capital Market Editor

Abdulwahab Isa

Adeola Yusuf

he target of N4.25 trillion ($25 billion) gas investments in Nigeria is facing a fresh threat, which may put them on hold, New Telegraph gathered at the weekend. This is buoyed by the increase in pipeline vandalism across the country. Director, Department of Pe-

Finance Editor

Kunle Azeez

Senior Correspondent

Chuks Onuanyin Energy

Nnamdi Amadi Reporter

Johnson Adebayo

Asst Production Editor

troleum Resources (DPR), Mr. George Osahon, had earlier said that gas projects would yield about $25 billion worth of investments. Osahon, who predicted this at a seminar organised by the Nigerian-South African Chamber of Commerce in Lagos with the theme: ‘FGN Gas Master Plan: Opportunities for Potential Investor,’ said that those investments would transform the economy. Investigations, however, showed that these investors are drawn back by the seeming government’s inability to curb the incessant gas pipeline vandalism. Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo, whose ministry’s efforts to generate suffi-

cient power has been thwarted by gas pipeline vandalism, hinted recently that vandals now use dynamites to destroy key facilities. “Gas shortage is the major issue confronting power generation at thermal plants. While some of the plants have not been generating power at optimal capacity, many have also not been able to start production due to this same reason,” he said. Blaming the gas shortage on

87% The percentage of gas currently being utilised

vandalism of gas pipeline, Nebo maintained that vandals now detonate dynamite on key pipelines. Meanwhile, prospective investors in the gas sector are already afraid of the safety of pipelines in the country. “They withhold their investments and you cannot blame them for that,” an industry source told New Telegraph on phone. She added: “The target of $25 billion in the gas sector is not out of place, given the enormous gas resources in Nigeria. But the bottom line is that government must put its house in order by tackling the issue of pipeline vandalism.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

Rates Dashboard INFLATION RATE February 2015.........................8.4% January 2015...........................8.2% December 2014.........................8%

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

EXCHANGE RATE (BDC as at Apr. 3)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N210 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N318 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N230

l Foreign Reserves – $29.778bn as at 1/04/2015

Source: CBN

EXCHANGE RATE (Interbank as at Apr. 3)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N199 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N300 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N220

Business | News

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Construction: FG tasked on specialised bank DEVELOPMENT

Experts seek longterm fund with lowinterest for capital projects Dayo Ayeyemi

oing by the high rate of housing initiatives across the country and the associated dearth of funds to promote economic development, both the Federal Government and concerned stakeholders have been tasked on the need for the establishment of a construction bank, aimed at making funds available for the sector. Reigniting the call, the immediate Past President of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Mr. Chucks Omeife, said that a special-purpose-driven construction bank had become mandatory given the sector’s peculiarities in terms of long term investment required to drive the industry. Construction and housing development is capital intensive and would require long-term fund as against the shortterm funds being made available by Nigerian financial institutions. Absence of long-term fund to match develop-

ment in the construction sector has been blamed on low growth recorded in the sector over the years by many experts. Justifying the call, Omeife said: “The Nigerian construction sector, especially the housing sector, has been declared globally as one of the sectors with very high returns on investment. This has been confirmed by the high rate of housing initiative and development across the country, especially in places like

Osahon had earlier said that the plan to drag $25 billion investments for gas was aimed at strengthening the gas market towards meeting government’s aspirations for achieving the goals of Vision 20:2020. He said: “The Nigerian Gas Master Plan (GMP) is a government initiative to grow the nation’s economy by providing the required infrastructure that will enable Nigeria consolidate on the multiplier effects of gas on the economy. “The policy is designed to ensure gas availability for the growing gas demands driven by rising gas prices, power sector reforms and investor confidence in Nigeria.” According to him, the progress being recorded in the gas sector through the implementation of the Gas Master Plan had opened up vast opportunities for investors in

ment would do well by looking into a way of establishing a construction bank to empower local sector’s stakeholders and exploit the great opportunity of job creation. He noted that the housing/construction sector had the capacity to absorb a large number of unemployed Nigerians, both skilled and unskilled, adding that the sector has the potential of providing opportunity for skill acquisition

for new entrants while encouraging training and retraining of artisans and craftsmen for quality work delivery in the sector. The NIOB boss tasked government to invest in the housing sector by making funds available through the proposed construction bank to assist young and upcoming entrepreneurs to embark on building materials and components manufacturing and fabrication.

He said: “The bank can also be a ready source of fund for local stakeholders to raise funds for construction contract execution with minimum interest rate and also provide the bulk of fund necessary for housing development.” He noted that the issue of fund for housing development had been a major issue in the nation’s ability and capacity to bridge the gap of ever-growing housing deficit in the country.

L-R: Head of Project & Design, Halogen Technologies, Mr. Timi Adebayo, General Manager, Technologies, Mrs Gbemisola Adejumo, National Sales Manager, Mr. Kehinde Oyedeji and Technical Manager, Mr. Humphrey Okorie, at the SECUREX West Africa Exhibition in Lagos.

N4.25trn gas investments threatened CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

Lagos, Abuja and PortHarcourt. “What stakeholders have been clamouring for is the establishment of special purpose driven construction bank with the mandate to make funds available for the sector given its peculiarities considering the long term nature of the investment required to drive the sector.” Omeife, who is the Managing Director of Build Consult Limited, pointed out that govern-

various areas. “Opportunities for investment are available in pipeline construction system, gas gathering and processing. Nigeria has the world’s seventh largest reserves of gas with a potential for a further 600 Tcf in undiscovered reserve. Nigeria, being Africa’s top and world’s nineth gas producer boasts of gas production average of 7.5 to eight Bscf /day. Only about 87 per cent of this production is currently being utilised. The gas sector holds a huge potential for record growths with prospect for 20 Bscf/d production by the end of 2015.” The Gas Master Plan initiated by the Federal Government, which aims at harnessing the country’s huge gas resources and reduce significantly massive gas flare by oil exploration and production companies, would soon attract monumental investment flow that will boost the economy.

PenCom to release guidelines for foreign investments in Q4 GROWTH

More room for investment will grow pension assets

Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

s a way of deepening investment options available to pension segment of the financial sector, the National Pension Commission (PeCom) plans to introduce guidelines for foreign investments in the fourth quarter of 2015. The total Pension fund assets as at December 31, 2014, was 4.61 trillion. At the moment, allowable instruments permissible for investment by the Pension Act include , quoted equities (ordinary shares, global depository receipts); Federal Government securities (FGN Bonds & Treasury Bills);State/local government bonds; corporate

debt securities (such as bonds, asset/mortgage backed securities etc); money market instruments; open/closed-end funds; and real estate investments; Infrastructure Bonds & Funds; and Private equity funds. The Commission put the net assets value (value of pension funds net of fees and other charges) of pension fund asset at N4.55 trillion as at January 31, 2015. However, New Telegraph learnt that the regulator has finalised plans to expand the investment options available to Pension administrators to include foreign investments. Sources at PenCom headquarters in Abuja confirmed the move in a response to New Telegraph’s enquiry. The Commission has also frowned at cases of pension deductions that were not remitted by some organisations and declared its readiness to sanction defaulting bodies. According to the commission, “in pursuance of this statutory responsibility of ensuring compliance with the

provision of the PRA 2014, the Commission deployed an application (Risk Management Analysis System) for monitoring remittance of pension contributions by employers. The application enables the Commission to monitor the status of the monthly remittance of contribution by all employers where employees have opened Retirement Savings Account. Defaulting employers are subject to the recovery process. “In addition, the Commission has in place a framework for recovery of outstanding pension contributions with penalty from defaulting employers. The framework, among others, provided for appointment of Recovery Agents (RAs). Consequently, the Commission has identified and assigned over 15,000 employers to Recovery Agents to review their records and recover any outstanding pension contributions plus penalty. The Commission also follows up on complaints from workers against their employers for failure to remit pension contributions as and when due.”

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Nigeria, Ghana bicker over $100m gas supply debt p.34

Energy FIRST QUARTER REVIEW

Mixed grill for energy in Q1, 2015

Oil rig. Insets: (L) Minister of Power, Prof Chinedu Nebo and Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke

he first quarter of 2015 was not short of expectations for a period that heralded the presidential election in Africa’s biggest democracy. Major decisions were taken during the quarter, ranging from separate cuts in the oil benchmark, differently done by the Senate as well as the House of Representatives, to the completion of sale of major assets by Shell and the Supreme Court judgment on a similar move by Chevron to sell assets. These major events were, however, dotted by the fuel scarcity, which climaxed during the period under review. Oil benchmark and legislators’ long knives The House of Representatives climaxed happenings in the first week of March with the approval of $54 per barrel benchmark for oil in the 2015-2017 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP). This decision, which came about six days after a similar decision by the Senate, was two dollars ahead of the benchmark set by the upper legislative house. After several weeks of bated breath, the Senate had approved a $52 per barrel oil benchmark for the 2015 budget. It also predicated the budget on an exchange rate of N190 to the dollar. The resolution on the budget benchmark and exchange rate was the outcome of a one-hour closed-door session held by the senators before the commencement of plenary. The House of Representatives, however, approved the 2015-2017 MTEF and FSP. It also fixed $54 as oil benchmark for the 2015 budget as against $65 proposed by the executive. The House also pegged the exchange rate at N198 to $1 just as it approved the crude oil production of 2.278.2 million, 2.327 million and 2.406 million barrels per day for 2015, 2016 and 2017 fiscal years respectively.

In this report, ENERGY EDITOR, Adeola Yusuf, periscopes major happenings in Nigeria’s energy sector, which shaped the first quarter of 2015. Major oil assets’ sale The first quarter of 2015 did not fall short of expectations. It turned out to be a period in which major decisions were taken in the nation’s energy industry. A consortium of companies led by Aiteo got necessary document for its acquisition of Shell’s stake in the Oil Mining Lease (OML 29), one of the biggest onshore oil blocks that Shell has ever divested in the country. Aiteo’s growth, the nation’s gains The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) appeared so excited for this milestone achieved by Aiteo. It described Shell’s completion of Stakes’ sale in OML 29 to the indigenous company as a boost for local content policy of the Federal Government. NNPC is the senior partner in the OML 29 Joint Venture. Other partners are Total and Agip. The formal handing over of Shell’s equity in OML 29 to Aiteo, the corporation said in a statement by its Group General Manager, Group Public affairs, Mr. Ohi Alegbe, would increase the participation of indigenous companies in the upstream sub-sector of the oil and gas industry. Also, Managing Director of SPDC and Country Chair of Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor, described the event as a major step towards the fulfilment of “the nation’s aspiration of growing indigenous participation in the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry.” The Shell boss who put the value of the oil bock at $2.56 billion also disclosed

that it has an average production capacity of 43,000 barrels per day with a potential to grow beyond its current capacity in the nearest feature. OML 18 goes to Eroton Consortium for $737m Earlier, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), a subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell Plc (Shell), has also announced the completion of the sales of its 30 per cent interest in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 18 and related facilities in the Eastern Niger Delta. The shares were acquired by Eroton Exploration and Production Company Limited at a cost of $737 million. This divestment is part of the strategic review of SPDC’s onshore portfolio and it is in

First quarter of 2015 turned out to be a period in which major decisions were taken in the nation’s energy industry

line with Federal Government’s aim of developing Nigerian indigenous companies in the country’s upstream oil and gas business. Supreme Court’s Judgment Another vulnerable event in the period under review was the verdict by the Supreme Court penultimate Monday warning chevron against selling some disputed oil blocks to an oil firm, Seplat Petroleum Development Company Limited. The suit before the apex court was filed by Brittania-U Limited, seeking to halt any planned sale of oil mining assets - Oil Mining Lease 52, OML 53 and OML 55- which it said rightly belong to it. The Supreme Court had resumed hearing in the appeal filed by an oil firm, Brittania-U Limited, against Seplat Petroleum Development Company and Chevron. Brittania-U Limited lodged the appeal over the decision of Chevron to sell its oil mining assets OML 52, OML 53 and OML 55 to Seplat. At the last hearing of the appeal, the Supreme Court ordered the parties in the suit not to take any measure that would render its decision nugatory. Brittania-U took the matter to the Supreme Court over the ruling of an Appeal court, which vacated an order of interlocutory injunction by a high court restraining Chevron and Seplat from concluding any deal on the oil leases. Oil firms dangle axe on 10,000 non-technical staff Oil companies have begun downsizing in a process that will see them sacrificing many of their non-technical staff. The international oil companies (IOCs) CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

Business | Energy

DENIAL

Ghanaian government refutes claims of gas cut by Nigeria

Adeola Yusuf

he bickering, which Ghana’s alleged $100 million gas debt to Nigeria generated among Ghanaian officials, has degenerated. Nigeria, biggest gas supplier to Ghana and other West African coun-

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Nigeria, Ghana bicker over $100m gas supply debt tries, had earlier halted supplies to the countries, but Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) alleged that the reason behind Ghana’s current power crisis is government’s failure to settle a $100 million debt owed the Nigerian Gas Company (NGC). But, the Ghanaian gov-

ernment, in a swift reaction, however, denied the claim that this was what led to a cut-off in the supply of gas to its power plants. A communications consultant to the Ghana Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, Edward Bawa, who denied the reports, confirmed, however, that there was a disruption in

gas supply to Ghana. Bawa, who acknowledged that Ghana’s power plants were running on gas supplied from Nigeria, however, added that a plant at the West African Gas Pipeline Company developed a fault recently, but has since been repaired. He was emphatic that Nigeria has not cut gas sup-

ply to Ghana. Bawumia had recently alleged that the reason behind Ghana’s current power crisis is government’s failure to settle a $100 million debt owed the NGC. He said that the situation was making it difficult for Nigeria to supply gas to the country as expected. “Nigeria Gas Company

is, therefore, dragging its feet with regard to the supply of gas, while this amount is unpaid. Ultimately, the problem is more of a financial problem than a technical one,” he suggested. According to reports in the country, Nigeria has cut gas supply to Ghana over indebtedness.

Prepare for deregulated gas price, FG tells manufacturers NEW ERA

NNPC subjects gas price to demand and supply mechanism Adeola Yusuf

he Federal Government has tasked manufacturers and other gas users in Nigeria to prepare for a ‘deregulated gas price.’ Group Executive Director, Gas and Power, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. David Ige, who said this revealed that the corporation and the Department of Petroleum (DPR) has advised manufacturers using gas to prepare for CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

such as Shell, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Total and EniSPA and their local counterparts have over 10,000 non-technical staff in their services that may be affected in the proposed restructuring. It was learnt that the directive to cut staff strength was, according to New Telegraph’s source, given to the IOCs by their parent companies abroad as a measure to survive the harsh economic environment created by the oil price rout for their investments. Fuel scarcity: A monster nib in the bud The long queues at filling stations, which was experienced across the country last weekend, got the boot on Wednesday when the Federal Government looked beyond partisanship and released fund to marketers. Before the close of work on Wednesday, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) opened $500 million Letters of Credits (LCs).

a ‘deregulated gas price’ mechanism. The new regime, which may be introduced before the implementation of the Nigerian Gas Transportation Network Code (NGTNC), is for manufacturers and other domestic gas users to buy the product at varying prices. NNPC and DPR have asked foreign and indigenous firms to prepare for a market where price would be determined by supply and demand and not by government as the NGTNC gets underway. The execution of the NGTNC, according to DPR, is in three stages: The manual (2015); partial auto (2016) and full auto implementation in 2017. Before anyone could say scarcity, major petroleum marketers informed that they have deployed 495 truckloads of fuel, with a minimum capacity of 33,000 litres each, to Lagos and Abuja. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, had addressed journalists after a meeting with the CBN, Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA), oil marketers and depot owners, in Abuja, where she stated that the Federal Government has addressed all contentious issues with the marketers, such as the issue of the foreign exchange rate differentials. She pointed out that the Federal Government has agreed to pay the N30 billion exchange rate differentials owed the marketers over the last couple of months and was already in the process of offsetting the N185 billion debts owed marketers with the issuance of the Sovereign Debt Note (SDN). Meanwhile, Money

A gas plant

Mixed Grill for energy in Q1, 2015 Deposit Banks (MDB) in the past one week, have opened Letters of Credits (LCs) worth $500 million for oil marketers to enable them import refined petroleum products, with a directive from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) that any oil marketer still encountering difficulties with the banks having LC opened should contact it immediately. On this, the CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, said: “All the issues have been resolved. Only last week when we had the meeting and now, LCs that have been opened by the banks is over $500 million in one week and $500 million in one week will translate to over 600 million litres of PMS, excluding other products that has been ordered. “We would like to appeal to all of you here, the marketers, that if there is any bank that refuses to open your LC or if it is being delayed, feel

free to reach us, you have our numbers and we will appeal to them because there are issues they have raised and those issues are being resolved. Executive Secretary, Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), Mr. Obafemi Olawore, who confirmed payment of the money, added that the queues will ease off in the next few days, as the marketers have moved 495 truckloads of fuel to Lagos, Abuja and its environs. Nigeria’s loss to Angola Nigeria loses Africa’s biggest exporter status to Angola in February, monthly market report of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has shown. This, the report revealed further, was due to fewer shipments of Nigeria’s largest stream, Qua Iboe. Politics for oil, gas and

power The about-two-year-old allegation and counterallegation on missing $20 billion oil revenues found its way back to the frontpage of major newspapers in the period under review. It was exactly two weeks to the presidential poll and this news, like many others, were given adequate doses of political interpretations. First, it was the announcement of over 50 per cent reduction in electricity tariff by the Federal Government, just 11 days to the presidential poll, which held on Saturday, March 28. Announcing the over 50 per cent tariff slash, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr. Sam Amadi, said that the decision was taken in response to complaints over tariff increase by industrial and commercial consumers. Mean-

while, power firms have kicked against tariff reduction. The Discos had anticipated recouping their aggregate technical, commercial and collection losses from consumers based on the provisions of the Multi-Year-TariffOrder 2.1 The dust raised by this has not subdued when the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, declared in an interview on Cable News Network (CNN) that NNPC was yet to adequately address the issue of $20 billion missing oil revenue. Sanusi has earlier raised the issue and he believed that the response by NNPC was nothing short of windowdressing. The Management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), however, raised objection to the allegation in a statement signed by the Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs, Mr. Ohi Alegbe.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Govt must provide land at zero cost to control house prices – Omeife p.36

Property&Environment 2015 FIRST QUARTER REVIEW

OPTIMISM Success of elections excites investors Dayo Ayeyemi

outed by many experts as a ‘safe haven’ against inflation, the real estate/ construction sector has witnessed its own fair share of the crises rocking the nation’s economy in the last three months. Against predictions, the sector has experienced slow growth in the first quarter due to many factors not limited to the global drop in oil prices, which has reduced government spending in the sector. The sector was further stifled by the devaluation of the naira. The weaker naira has increased the price of imports of building materials on which the sector depends. The increase in prices has also placed pressure on incomes, decreasing the money available for housing. While investors and all stakeholders have been bracing to the challenge, the fear of what could be the outcome of the nation’s elections made many developers put on hold their activities until further notice. Experts’ view Assessing the sector at the end of the first quarter, Managing Director of MCO Real Estate, Mr. Munachi Okoye, said that three major events that happened during the period slowed down activities in the sector. He noted that the devaluation of the naira, the elections and the plunge in global oil prices, were setback to investors, adding that many practitioners had to put their activities on hold. But with the peaceful presidential elections, he stated that expectations have been high for strong growth in the sector. Also, the Managing Director of Oxen Property, Mr. Victor Olaogun, summarised that the sector was inactive in the first quarter of the year due to the elections. He said: “The sector has been dull. Some people don’t want to take the risk until after the election. People that started construction slowed down their activities. “But it is expected to pick up now that the presidential election has been concluded. We will be looking at the first 100 days of the new president and people he appointed for various ministries. I am sure the sector will pick up.” In their analysis of the sector, experts at African Union for Housing Finance (AUHF) noted that the Central Bank of Nigeria had increased the benchmark interest rate to 13 per cent

Housing: Growth stunted by election fever, weak naira

Housing units at Northpoite Estate, Lekki, Lagos.

is cheaper than staying in hotels with flexibility in tenancy agreement. Unexpectedly, residential vacancy factor in Victoria Island declined by 26 per cent in February, while Ikoyi was down by 10 per cent.

in order to combat the inflationary effects, which decreases the amount of money available for housing investments and increases the price of financing housing projects. They argued that the loss of value on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, which crashed earlier in the year, also reduced the money available for investments. They stated that experts had predicted that government would increase taxes to make up for the loss of revenue, possibly allowing them to proceed with their housing projects. They said: “But, just as with the global recession, Nigeria’s housing finance markets will survive these pressures. “Nigeria’s finance and housing sectors have developed in recent years; increasingly stable because of stronger regulations and new sources of funding.” Rental segment Due to weak naira, landlords in some exclusive neighbourhoods insisted on dollar rental payments in Lagos. Reinforcement of monetisation of accommodation allowance has also affected demand for luxury apartments, while employees now prefer to use accommodation allowance to develop their own properties. Also, demand for short let apartments by foreigners has continued to increase because it

Nigeria’s finance and housing sectors have developed in recent years

Actions Despite the devaluation of the naira, the housing sector witnessed new inflow of capital, no thanks to the just announced Memorandum of Understanding between the US-based investment firm, Cantor Fitzgerald, and the Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC), which is worth $1 billion (about N200 billion). Also, efforts were geared towards providing houses to meet the 22,000 mortgages by Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Corporation. Although, the Housing Minister, Mrs Akon Eyakenyi, inaugurated some housing units to walk the talk, they are, however, not enough to meet the yearnings of over 16 million Nigerians in need of accommodation. Defying the odds Developers of Azuri Peninsular (the first residential buildings in Eko Atlantic City), Messrs Eko Development Company Limited (EDCL) has commenced construction works on the first phase of the project. Already, the piling works of

the 26-storey apartments have commenced. Situated in the Marina District of Eko Atlantic City, Asuri Peninsular is a mixed use development designed by Gensier, an internationally lauded architecture firm with headquarters in San Francisco. The developers disclosed that despite the economic crunch in the country, individuals’ interest recorded so far is over 80 per cent. On completion, the first phase of the Marina-front project will showcase two and four bedroom luxury apartments, six bedroom simplexes and seven bedroom villas, which are arranged across marina townhouse apartments and three outstanding residential towers up to 26 floors. Promoters of brand of Essential Homes, Gran Imperio Group, also rolled out plans to build 1000 housing units in 2015, in which construction works have commenced in their various sites across Lagos. Also, developers of Ikeja G.R.A’s Orchid Court, Briscoe Property Limited, delivered modern residential estate in February. The estate is a 25-unit of luxury apartments on 8,700 square metres of land. Due to the location, 65 per cent of the housing units has been sold out, while the prices of the remaining has been jerked up by 15 per cent due to high demand.

Business | Property & Environment

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Govt must provide land at zero cost to control house prices â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Omeife Chucks Omeife, the immediate past president of the Nigeria Institute of Building (NIOB), is the Chief Executive Officer of Build Consult Limited. In this interview with Dayo Ayeyemi, he speaks on issues that government must address in order to guarantee cheap houses for Nigerians

affordable to the targeted group is for government to provide land at zero cost to developers and also create a window where cheap fund for housing development can be accessed by developers. It is by so doing that government can control prices of houses that are produced through this initiative. You have always advocated for Construction Industry Commission or Construction Industry Development Board to direct activities in the sector. What is this supposed to means? The establishment of the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) is the next step to grow in the Nigerian construction industry. Government has the sole responsibility of establishing this agency that will midwife and stimulate sustainable growth, reforms and improvement of the sector for effective service delivery and enhance its contribution to the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy. This is a one stop regulating agency with all the professionals and stakeholders under one umbrella. Comparatively, we have witnessed a big leap in the industry for some countries that have adopted the approach of the establishment of CIDB just about a decade ago. South Africa is a good example; Malaysia and Singapore have become reference point too in construction expertise export and related businesses. When the CIDB South Africa was formally launched, some of the development and transformation challenges set out to be tackled include improving effectiveness of public sector spending on physical infrastructure development and maintenance, improving labour absorption, labour relations and job stability, Accelerating sustainable transformation through access to opportunity, finance and training, reducing the impact of HIV and AIDS in construction and ensuring international competitiveness. Looking at South Africans today, you will agree with me that they have overcome to a large extent the reason for establishing the CIDB.

With the dwindling oil revenue and devaluation of naira, do you think government should invest in 2015 to fast-track economic recovery? Yes. With the dwindling oil revenue and the unofficial devaluation of the naira, government has no choice but to keep investing in different sectors of the economy to accelerate the rate of economic recovery, especially in the critical sectors. Government has to provide the enabling environment to encourage both private sector involvement and foreign direct investment, which have been on the increase since the rebasing of the economy. It is important that efforts are intensified in sustaining the real growth in the economy by providing various categories of incentives that will attract international investment. What method should government adopt in reviving the construction sector? The Nigerian construction sector, especially the housing sector, has been declared globally as one of the sectors with very high returns on investment. This has been confirmed by the high rate of housing initiative and development across the country especially in places like Lagos, Abuja and Port-Harcourt. What stakeholders has been clamoring for is the establishment of special purpose driven construction bank with the mandate to make fund available for the construction sector, giving the peculiarities of the sector in terms of long term nature of the investment required to drive the sector. Government will do well to look into this area to empower local sector stakeholders and exploit the great opportunity of job creation since this sector has been identified as one of the major sectors that can absorb a large number of unemployed Nigerians both skilled and unskilled. The sector has the potential of providing opportunity for skill acquisition for new entrants and training and retraining of artisans and craftsmen for quality work delivery in the sector. How can government invest in housing/construction sector? Government can invest in the sector by making funds available through the proposed construction bank to assist young and upcoming entrepreneurs in the sector to start building materials and components manufacturing and fabrication. The bank can also be a ready source of funds for local stakeholders to raise fund for construction contract execution with minimum interest rate and also provide the bulk of the fund necessary for housing development. The issue of fund for housing development has been a major issue in our ability and capacity to breach the ever growing housing deficit gap in the country. This is because funds required for housing development are long term funds with low interest rate. This is the only way the houses that are being produced can be affordable to the generality of Nigerians. With the vast land mass of the country, government should be able to make land available and at a reasonable cost to reduce the overall cost of houses being produced.

Omeife

What will the country or construction sector benefit from its establishment? The country will benefit from the cooperation and collaboration of the built environment professionals and stakeholders by creating a platform for knowledge sharing and exchange to allow for that synergy that will signpost the impetus for growth and sustainability in the industry. It will drive technological development and innovation in the industry.

Do you think the increase in the prices of building materials is responsible for high housing cost in the country? Increase in the cost of building materials can have an effect on the overall cost of the houses. However, this cost is minimal compared to the effect of the cost of land and the cost of fund for housing development. The two are the major factors determining, to a large extent, the cost of houses. The major materials used in building construction apart from reinforcement and finishing materials are locally sourced with cost increase that is minimal in most cases. What can be done to bring building materials prices down? The process of bringing down prices of building materials should be work in progress for our level of development and this is to encourage local production and fabrication of materials and components, especially the finishing materials. The current trend where most finishing materials are imported does not augur well for the industry. This is one of the major reasons why government must provide the enabling environment and financial intervention in the sector just like what has been done for other sectors of the economy to encourage and improve local capacity and capability of stakeholders. The construction bank remains a veritable solution. There are lots of small cottage industries that can be generated from this sector if fund is made available to stakeholders. What is the viable alternative to be adopted to keep housing prices affordable for the targeted groups? The only option available to make houses

Looking at South Africans today, you will agree with me that they have overcome the reason for establishing the CIDB

How would you rate the current performance of the housing sector? The housing sector has been going through a lot of transformation through the various policy initiatives and governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s determination to attack frontally this scourge of housing deficit which has become a pain to many Nigerians. It is hoped that when the different institutional and regulatory frameworks are fully on ground the housing sector will witness a boom that will make it robust and responsive to the yearnings of Nigerians. So far, it is not so bad as we all wait for the take-off of the various platforms put in place especially those initiative driven by the private sector. The major expectation is the fulfillment of the objectives of the newly established government mortgage refinancing company giving the many subscribers that have been cleared to benefit from that initiative. A fulfillment of that promise will give Nigerians confidence in government initiative and create the necessary platform for sustainability in the housing sector. The challenge will now be the availability of these houses for allocation to would be beneficiary. This I assume is the crux of government collaboration with housing developers across the country which is encouraging.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Dust spell reduces visibility in Northern Nigeria p.38

Aviation

A new dawn in Nigeria’s aviation p.38

2015 FIRST QUARTER REVIEW

Q1 2015: Still a long way for aviation The last three months has been that of mixed feelings for aviation in Nigeria. In this piece, Aviation Editor, WOLE SHADARE, x-rays activities in the sector

he first quarter of 2015 was a tough one for the aviation industry in Nigeria. It was a period many activities were put on hold because of the just concluded presidential election. There was a lull in activities. Notwithstanding the lull, the Ministry of Aviation and by extension, the agencies also lived up to the billings in terms of letting the travelling public know the path they are charting for the sector. For the few months that the Aviation Minister, Osita Chidoka, has been in the saddle, he has shown commitment to transforming the sector, but many years of rot, especially in the past four years, coupled with the fact that he has just less than one year to perform, made his task really onerous. In January this year, buoyed by his passion for the sector, he came up with some reforms that divided opinions among stakeholders in the sector. As part of his reforms, the minister unveiled what is generally known as Aviation Commit Initiative in Lagos which is aimed at providing better service for customers and improving the revenue that accrue from the aviation sector for the Federal Government. He directed that the multiple charges levied on commercial airlines by aviation agencies must be reviewed and streamlined, while the exploitative fares charged passengers, including fuel surcharges, must be reviewed downwards. Chidoka also directed removal of cargo charges on agriculture produce exports in order to encourage exporters and generate foreign exchange, adding that there should be an immediate end to commercial operation by privately-owned aircraft. Chidoka said that any private airline doing commercial operations without regularising its operations before Thursday, February 5, would be grounded by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). He also directed that all airlines operating in Nigeria without a Nigerian pilot in its crew by July 1, 2015, also be grounded, as he said that airlines can now operate round-the-clock and no longer limited by time because

Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. Inset: Aviation Minister, Osita Chidoka.

by end of May, this year, every airport in the country would have airfield lighting, which will enable aircraft to land at night Government is already installing the runway lighting at 13 airports in the country and the projects would be completed by the stated date. According to the minister, the Aviation Commits initiative is a customer-centric step by the ministry to “bring back the customer.” The initiative will be a campaign to create awareness on the passengers’ bill of right. “The initiative is aimed at repackaging, re-branding and redirecting the aviation industry in Nigeria towards enhanced service delivery and customer satisfaction,” the minister said. During the period, Nigerian airline problems worsened, occasioned by lack of finance and harsh operating environment. Cost of aviation fuel is on the rise, charges are high. These are some of the issues the carriers are faced with. Everywhere else in the world, government’s support for airline business is geared towards the derived benefits of creating jobs for the populace, and stimulating other economic activities. In aviation-friendly countries, adverse policies, exorbitant charges and undue regulations (especially non-safety related regulations) are regularly reviewed to give airline operators a breather, to survive and prosper. These are, indeed, hard times for airline operators in the country as they continue to grapple with the scarcity of aviation fuel, otherwise known as JET A1. Until recently, Nigeria was one of the preferred destinations for

Cost of aviation fuel is on the rise, charges are high

refuelling because of the nation’s favourably competitive price of aviation fuel. Today, the product is more expensive in Nigeria than any other oil producing nation. The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has, therefore, called on the Federal Government to put an end to the arbitrary increase in the price of aviation fuel to safeguard the interest of the flying public, the airlines and the aviation industry in general. Justifying their actions, however, the marketers claim that they face a lot of challenges including the landing cost of the product. They also claim to spend so much money on demurrage charged by the Nigerian Port Authority (NPA), increased depot cost at the Apapa Port, increased operational cost, the high cost of charges levied on them by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and other charges they incur in the course of doing business. Concerned by these problems, Chidoka disclosed that the Federal Government was considering ways of assisting Nigerian airlines get out of the woods by proposing what it termed the stimulus plan. According to him, the stimulus will “involve a package of financial incentives that will provide support across the aviation value chain. The Federal Government had, in 2008, given over N200 billion to airlines under what it termed aviation intervention fund. Aero, the defunct Air Nigeria, IRS, Arik and others got substantial amount to help them resuscitate their operations.

Air Nigeria, owned by business mogul, Mr. Jimoh Ibrahim, got N35 billion and Aero over N25 billion. It was not known how much Arik Air got. The fund was to help the carriers offset their debts rather than buy equipment. Years after the monies were assessed, virtually all the airlines are in a serious financial crisis threatening their continued existence. But Chidoka said that the only way for Nigeria’s aviation industry to get out of the woods was the formulation and implementation of an ‘economic stimulus.’ He noted that the idea would help to grow the budding, but fast-paced sector, adding that government had considered the idea to save the nation’s floundering airlines. The minister stated that there was the need to introduce some initiatives to rescue the industry. Taking a comparative approach to justify the need for his plan, Chidoka said that several thriving airlines around the world had enjoyed or continue to enjoy government’s financial and material support. He listed such airlines to include three United States airlines – Delta Airlines, American Airlines and United Airlines – which received over $40 billion in the US government subsidies in the past decade. Chidoka explained that the country’s aviation industry was underperforming in terms of its contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). To him, at a current GDP of N80.3 trillion or $509.9 billion, Nigeria’s aviation industry contributes a paltry $0.7 billion, which, in percentage terms, is less than one per cent of the GDP.

Business | Aviation

HISTORIC The new routes will strengthen Ireland’s connectivity to the west coast of the United States

Wole Shadare

little piece of history was made recently as Ethiopian Airlines Dreamliner B787 made a scheduled first visit to Dublin Airport. Earlier this year, the largest airline in Africa had announced that it would commence three times weekly flights direct from Dublin to Addis Ababa and Dublin direct to Los Angeles on the Dreamliner 787. Chief Executive Officer of the airline, Tewolde Gebremariam,

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ethiopian Airlines flies first Dreamliner 787 into Dublin travelled on the aircraft from London Heathrow with crew and some African journalists and were received by Chief Executive of the Dublin Airport Authority, Kevin Toland. Gabremariam said in a statement that this is the first time a Dreamliner 787 has made a scheduled stop in Dublin Airport, adding that the ultramodern Boeing 787 Dreamliner offers unparalleled on-board comfort to passengers, especially for long haul routes, with its unique features such as greatly reduced noise, higher cabin air humidity,

biggest windows in the sky and spacious cabin interior. According to him, “these new flights commencing in June will be the only direct services connecting Africa with Ireland and the West Coast of the United States, following Ireland’s move to grant Ethiopian fifth freedom rights, enabling the airline to sell tickets on all sectors of the new Addis Ababa to LA route.” He noted that passengers from Ireland and Los Angeles will be able to enjoy seamless and convenient connectivity options thanks to Ethiopian’s extensive

network in Africa, spanning 49 destinations. Ireland’s Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe welcomed the Ethiopian Airlines Dreamliner B787 into Dublin Airport for the first time. His words: “This is a very exciting day for Dublin airport and for Irish tourism. I very much look forward to the start of Ethiopian Airlines’ new Addis Ababa-Los Angeles service via Dublin Airport in June, using the very impressive Dreamliner. “The new routes will strengthen Ireland’s connectivity to the west coast of the United States and will provide the first direct link to Ethiopia and other points in Africa and

beyond from the Ethiopian Airlines Addis Ababa hub, offering additional choice and convenience for passengers.” Gebremariam disclosed that the carrier was proud to be the first airline to link Africa and Ireland and bring the ultramodern 787 aircraft to Dublin airport. He thanked the Government of Ireland and the airport authority for their tremendous support, which he said has enabled the start of our flight in June. “Our flights connecting Addis Ababa, Dublin and Los Angeles will play a critical role in the expansion of trade, tourism and investment between the fast growing continent of Africa and Ireland”.

AIR RAGE

WITH

Wole Shadare

A new dawn in Nigeria’s aviation

T Ethiopian Airways’ 787 Dreamliner

Dust spell reduces visibility in Northern Nigeria Clem Khena-Ogbena

he Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has said that dust spell would result in the reduction of visibility in the Northern Nigeria, especially in the Northeast of the country, including Maiduguri and Gombe. In its dust forecast just released, NIMET informed of a possible dust outbreak, which is capable of affecting parts of the country this month, by which time the north easterly winds would still have been dominant over the northern region. The agency noted that the High Pressure system over the Sahara desert began to strengthen from 1034hpa to 1038hpa, as the mid-latitude trough passed over the area. Two days later, the

martwatch owners who install the KLM app on their Android smartphone will be able to check their flight overview in KLM’s smartwatch app any time after making a booking. They will start receiving trip-related notifications 24 hours ahead of their departure. Upon entering Amsterdam Airport Schiphol’s “geofence,” passengers automatically receive a notification with gate informa-

value reached a very significant threshold of 1038hpa resulting in very strong winds of 40 - 45Knots (72 - 80Km/hr) over the region. “This result in strong winds over the desert, raised a lot of dust particles from the source regions, which was subsequently transported by the dry Northeasterly winds into the country. The already airborne dust particles affected the northern and the central states of the country on April 1, 2015, reducing visibility to as low as 200 meters in Maiduguri and 800 meters in Gombe.” The Director-General of the agency, Dr. Anthony Anuforom, also said that the observed high pressure cell over the source region was weakening, but the winds were still very strong over the area, adding that as expected, fresh dust plume was raised on

the morning of Thursday, April 2, 2015, due to the persistent strong winds. According to him, this new dust episode was expected to further reduce visibility in the north eastern states. “As the pressure system continues to weaken in the coming days and the moisture laden south westerly winds from the ocean continue to advance inland, the dust particles will begin to clear and the visibility will also improve progressively northwards in the coming days. “This development will not affect flight operations adversely, because the atmosphere (especially the south and central states) is already having enough moisture to cause the raised particles to fall off the atmosphere early leading to improved visibility.”

KLM launches Android Smartwatch app tion and their boarding time. Opening the notification allows the passenger to swipe between all relevant flight information. An hour before departure, passengers receive a message with their boarding pass, ready to be scanned at the gate. A final notification with the passenger’s seat number is sent just before departure.

In line with this vision, KLM last year launched an airport navigation service using iBeacon technology that helps transfer passengers find their next gate at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. KLM is testing the smartwatch technology in order to benefit from user experiences. This will also be helpful for the Apple Watch app.

he presidential election is over. While all the intrigues that trailed the poll could be considered part of electioneering campaigns, there is high hope that the emergence of Muhammadu Buhari as president would help to sanitise the aviation industry that has been in the news for the wrong reasons. All institutions in the country are in sorry state and the aviation sector is one of them. The current Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, was appointed less than a year ago. Time is not his friend to effect any meaningful change in a beleaguered aviation sector. This is not an attempt to do a review, but an advice for Buhari and whoever is appointed to take over from Chidoka on what they need to do to reposition the ailing sector. The rot is indescribable. The last three or four years witnessed humongous graft. It was a period that should never be allowed to happen again. It was a period common sense took flight; corruption was caressed like a man in bed with a woman. It was a period mediocrity thrived at the expense of people who had things to offer. It was a period every criticism was seen as target against a female ex-Minister of Aviation; it was a period money was used to buy every dissenting voice. It was also a period this ex-female Minister of Aviation deployed blackmail as a tool to pull down critics. It was a period a renowned aviation consultant and highly

respected Capt. Dele Ore was threatened to keep quiet or pay dearly for his criticisms. Group Capt. John Ojikutu was called names and faced all manners of intimidation. Even this reporter faced intimidation, blackmail and harassment from people sympathetic to the ex-minister and sycophants who were reportedly close to her. Never again shall the aviation sector witness the population of the agencies with misfits, people who were imported from strange NGO to oversee media departments of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN); people who did not know the difference between ‘runway’ and ‘runaway.’ That was the extent of rot in the parastatal. The BMW cars’ scandal and many others vindicated the few reporters who hinted of massive graft in both the Ministry of Aviation, FAAN and NAMA. The agencies need urgent surgical operation to reposition the sector to be safer. We need to begin to see the appointment of serious minded aviators, people who have the interest of the nation at heart. Whoever is appointed to man the agencies, real focus should be on how to assist our carriers to become competitive, bring down astronomical cost of JET A1, reduction in multiple taxes, completion of some airport projects that have lingered for more than three years and other things that would help the industry to grow. This reporter is upbeat that things will take proper shape with the new administration that comes on board on May 29, 2015.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY APRIL 7, 2015

Photo | News

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Bishop of Ibadan Archdiocese, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, leading a procession for the Easter Sunday Mass at St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Church, Okepadre, Ibadan. PHOTO-NAN

Minister of Housing, Dr. Akon Eyakenyi (middle), with the directors and staff of the Federal Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, at the convocation ceremony of the University of Calabar where she was conferred with a Ph.D in Education.

L-R: Justice Sybil Nwaka; husband to the deputy governor of Lagos State, Mr. Abiodun Adefulire; the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Cathedral Church, Most Rev. Adebola Ademowo and Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, at the Easter Sunday service of the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos.

A Cross section of participant at the formal endorsement of the Lagos State APC candidate, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, by Coalition of Christian Nonâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Governmental Organizations (NGOS) in Lagos.

L-R: Secretary, Conference Education, Methodist Church of Nigeria, Diocese of Lagos West, Very Rev. Paul Olukuga; Bishop, Lagos West Diocese, Rt. Rev. Oluyemisi Ogunlere; Cathedral Presbyter, Very Rev. Kolade Odu and Cathedral Senior Steward, Mr. Abiona Babarinde, during the Easter thanksgiving church service at the Methodist Cathedral, Mushin, Lagos. PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

L-R: Head of Spirits, Marketing & RTDs, Diageo Nigeria, Liz Ashdown; Brand Manager, Bailey, Ufuoma Udjoh; Stephanie Coker, OAP of MTV Base Africa and Ebonylife TV and Fade Ogunro, OAP of Beat FM at the Baileys Day Tea party in Lagos.

L-R: Secretary-General, Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), Mr. Issa Aremu; President, Major-General Lawrence Onoja (rtd) and Vice President, Mr. Garba Tetengi, at a press conference on the activities of the institute in Abuja.

Unit Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nteje, Anambra State, Mr. Alkassim Mustapha (left), presenting a gift to the overall best officer of the Command, Mr. Agwu Dickson, during a visit to the unit.

Business | Money Line

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Oil slump: IMF warns of risks to Nigerian banks Hazard

Exposure to oil industry will hurt lenders Tony Chukwunyem

he International Monetary Fund (IMF) has war ned that the sharp drop in oil prices has significantly increased the risks for Nigerian banks because of the sector’s exposure to the oil industry. In a press statement issued at the end of its 2014, “Article IV Consultation” with Nigeria, the IMF noted that Nigeria’s oil exports and oil revenue are projected to decline by six percentage points and 2.4 percentage points respectively of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) this year from 2014 levels. It further stated that the decline in oil revenue would result in a reduction in the current account balance and loss in international reserves, adding that a strong contraction in public investment and domestic demand is projected to reduce growth

to 4¾ per cent, with inflation increasing to 11½ per cent from the effects of exchange rate depreciation. “These developments also increase risks to the banking sector, given its significant exposure to the oil industry and the potential for capital outflows,” the IMF stated. While noting that the

Nigerian monetary and fiscal authorities adopted bold policy actions in November 2014 such as an adjustment in the official foreign exchange rate and band, tightening of monetary policy rates, and spending cuts totaling 1.7 percentage of GDP in the proposed 2015 budget, the IMF stated that additional policies

will be needed, including greater flexibility in the exchange rate and further fiscal adjustment, particularly in state and local governments. The IMF said, “The authorities have a comprehensive economic transformation agenda, designed to boost growth, create new job opportunities, and reduce poverty.

enyan lender, Equity Bank, has concluded plans to expand to Nigeria and nine other countries on the continent over the next five years. The expansion will cost $2.2 billion. The bank said in a statement that its expansion plans would be achieved through acquisitions and new investments. It stated that it had already entered into loan deals for $400 million and was creating additional shares worth Sh20 billion as part of efforts to raise funds for the expansion. The lender also disclosed that it would also raise funds for the scheme through a rights issue or an Initial Public Offering (IPO). The Chief Executive of

the bank, James Mwangi, said, “For acquisition we will give shares in Equity Bank instead of cash. In some countries it is difficult to start from scratch because they are too big so we will enter by acquiring a medium-tier bank and upscale it.” Equity Bank already operates in four countries within East Africa, but its new plan will venture west to Nigeria, Ghana and Cameroon. It will also open up branches in Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Mozambique in the South. The lender, however, intends to start with East Africa, the region where it has consolidated its brand. The five-year plan will start with Ethiopia, Burundi and the Democratic Re-

As at N16,833,244.57 N16,509,472.5m 8.2 0.0000 13 10.899 7.96 17.01 US$61.39 US$29,778,223,398

Description

TTM

4.00% 23-Apr-2015 13.05% 16-Aug-2016 15.10% 27-Apr-2017 16.00% 29-Jun-2019 16.39% 27-Jan-2022 10.00% 23-Jul-2030

1.21 2.53 3.22 5.39 7.98 16.47

Tenor (Days) Call 7 30 60 90 180 365

Rate (%) 11.9167 12.3333 12.6667 12.9167 13.2167 13.5000 13.7500

NIBOR

Dec, 2014 Dec, 2013 Feb, 2015 2/5/2014 24/2/2015 11/6/2013 Dec, 2013 Dec, 2013 24/2/2015 1/4/2015 Source:CBN

FGN Bonds Bid Price 90.20 99.25 104.10 109.35 114.15 76.60

Offer Yield 13.01 13.40 13.47 13.49 13.44 13.59

Price 90.35 99.40 104.40 109.65 114.45 76.90

Tenor (Months) 1 2 3 6 9 12

Rate (%) 12.1827 12.2737 12.3744 12.8521 12.8535 13.8443

Treasury Bills Maturity Date 08-May-14 07-Aug-14 22-Jan-15

Bid 12.10 12.10 12.05

oritisation, as financing the entire plan would be a challenge, even with more supportive financial conditions and good progress in financial inclusion.” It, however, emphasised that the fiscal adjustment be achieved without endangering the delivery of critical public services.

Kenyan Bank plans $2bn expansion to Nigeria, others

Economic Indicators M2* CPS* INF IBR MPR 91-day NTB DPR PLR Bonny Light Ext Res**

With recent oil market developments, however, non-oil revenue mobilisation (including an increase in VAT rate) is more urgent than ever and is critical for creating the fiscal space necessary to implement the transformation agenda. Further, the national infrastructure investment plan needs careful pri-

Bid Spot ($/N) 163.28 THE FIXINGS –NIBOR,NITTY and NIFEX of February 6,2014

NITTY

Yield 12.86 13.33 13.35 13.42 13.38 13.53

Offer 163.38

Open-Buy-Back (OBB) Overnight (O/N)

Rate (%) 11.33 11.63

NIFEX Spot ($/N)

Bid 163.4000

Offer 163.5000 Source: FMDQ

Trade Organisation (WTO) and will be forced to open up its market. Its parent company, Equity Group Holdings Limited, has a customer base exceeding nine million within the region, making it the largest commercial bank by number of customers.

Why Africa should move towards cashless society – GTB boss

he Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank (GT Bank), Ghana, Mr Olelakan Sanusi, has stressed the need for Africa to move fast towards a cashless society to be able to catch up with the rest of the world. According to him, “Internationally it has been done and it is working for them and so why can’t we also do same to benefit from its merits?” He noted that in many parts of Africa, people are not used to the use of cards for transactions and, therefore, in spite of the introduction of cards, its usage is on a low side. Governments have also not found greater value in the use of cards in place of cash in transactions and have, therefore, not put any regulations in place to be able to encourage that. In places such as Kenya, the Mpesa, a mobile money system, is making major inroads, but the same cannot be said of a majority of countries, Ghana being no exception.

“As a bank, we have led the way to introduce cashless cards such as the Visa Card, Mastercard and others and we expect that more people will embrace it to enable them to do more things with it, instead of carrying cash around,” he said. In the area of innovation, Mr Sanusi said GT Bank had been able to study the market to know what customers really wanted to make banking easier for them. “This started way back in Nigeria when we changed the cage concept and also designed branches in a manner that made them attractive and more friendly for customers to come in to do business,” he said. He said the bank had also introduced innovative products for students at the universities to enable them to make payments faster and easier. He said African companies must be able to share ideas among themselves and learn from one another.

Survey shows Nigerians favour lower interest rate

Money Market Offer 11.85 11.85 11.80

public of Congo over the next two years before it expands further to the rest of Africa. Although in 2012 Ethiopia locked out private investors from its financial sector to boost home-grown investment, Equity Banks believes the fast growing economy would finally join the World

n Inflation Attitudes survey for the first quarter of 2015 carried out by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has revealed that majority of Nigerians favour lower interest rates for the economy as a whole rather than themselves. According to the survey, “Given a trade-off between inflation and interest rate, more respondents would prefer higher interest rates to higher inflation with a margin of more than two to one.” The survey also found that majority of respondents expressed satisfaction with the way CBN was doing its job to influence the direction of

interest rates to control inflation. Respondents further believed that the economy would end up weaker rather than stronger, if prices start to rise faster than they do now, thereby giving a sizeable support to price stability. According to the CBN, “The Q1, 2015 survey of households‟ attitudes to inflation and interest rates was conducted by the Statistics Department from 2nd to 14th February, 2015. This is in its bid to asses the general public perceptions of inflation which will help gauge the Bank‟s macroeconomic policy formulation.”

Business | Financial Market News

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

2-Apr-15

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 Issuer

Rating/Agency

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Description 4.00 23-APR-2015 ^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 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

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs)

Bid Price

Offer Price

23-Apr-10 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 28-Nov-08 22-May-09 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10 18-Jul-14

4.00 13.05 15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 15.54 16.39 14.20 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493

535.00 581.39 476.80 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 54.00 600.00 499.68 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 254.50

23-Apr-15 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 28-Nov-28 22-May-29 20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30 18-Jul-34

0.06 1.37 2.07 2.32 2.41 3.16 4.24 4.56 4.87 6.82 8.95 13.66 14.14 14.64 15.31 19.29

13.53 14.09 14.01 13.99 13.99 14.04 14.12 14.12 14.12 14.14 14.11 16.52 16.87 17.28 15.42 14.05

10.94 13.97 13.93 13.91 13.91 13.92 14.03 14.01 14.04 14.07 14.05 16.46 16.80 17.18 15.35 14.00

99.44 98.70 101.87 91.99 90.74 91.65 105.78 76.64 104.82 109.60 100.44 91.80 76.60 53.66 68.42 87.39

99.59 98.85 102.02 92.14 90.89 91.95 106.08 76.94 105.12 109.90 100.74 92.10 76.90 53.96 68.72 87.69

Bid Yield (%) Offer Yield (%)

5,023.13

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

Price

4,673.25 Issuer

Agency Bonds FMBN ***LCRM

Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Indicative Price

0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 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

24-May-12 03-Apr-12 09-Dec-11 20-Apr-12 06-Jul-12

0.00 17.25 0.00/16.00 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50

24.56 2.40 112.22 116.70 66.49

24-May-15 03-Apr-17 08-Dec-16 19-Apr-17 06-Jul-17

0.14 0.88 1.69 2.05 2.26

2.63 2.27 2.00 1.00 2.85

16.51 17.14 16.00 14.98 16.84

97.64 100.21 99.92 101.86 95.32

31-Aug-15 30-Sep-15 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 10-Oct-20 27-Nov-20 31-Dec-20 31-Dec-20 06-Jan-21

0.41 0.50 0.77 0.77 2.05 1.31 2.75 2.13 1.93 2.12 2.12 2.31 3.06 4.64 2.71 3.17 5.66 5.75 3.41 3.44

4.44 3.23 4.46 3.48 1.00 1.00 1.79 1.80 1.00 1.00 4.78 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.44 1.00

19.02 17.95 19.29 18.31 14.98 15.36 15.81 15.78 14.98 14.98 18.76 14.99 15.04 15.12 15.01 15.05 15.13 15.13 15.50 15.06

97.44 97.73 96.37 98.01 91.48 98.14 96.03 96.98 98.49 99.13 92.26 100.88 101.04 97.93 99.43 99.30 93.90 99.44 97.48 99.77

17-Aug-15 09-Dec-15 06-Jan-16 29-Sep-16 25-Oct-16 30-Sep-17 30-Nov-17 09-Apr-18 09-Sep-18 09-Sep-18 22-Sep-18 18-Oct-18 17-Feb-19 01-Apr-19 14-Nov-20 30-Dec-21 30-Sep-24 30-Sep-24

0.38 0.44 0.52 1.49 1.56 2.50 1.52 1.52 1.94 1.94 3.47 1.79 2.13 2.75 5.62 6.75 9.50 9.50

1.00 1.00 2.63 1.00 1.34 1.00 1.88 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 2.29 6.11 2.16 2.76 1.13 1.00 1.00

15.53 15.62 17.36 15.04 15.36 15.00 15.90 15.02 14.98 14.98 15.07 16.28 20.09 16.18 16.89 15.27 15.31 15.31

98.01 98.49 98.40 97.36 98.48 95.96 103.39 101.26 104.73 101.58 97.18 99.23 96.68 99.63 94.14 104.80 83.33 89.84

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

322.38

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

320.77

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

KADUNA *EBONYI *BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO *DELTA NIGER *EKITI *NIGER *ONDO *GOMBE LAGOS *OSUN *OSUN LAGOS KOGI *EKITI *NASARAWA

12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015 13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015 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 14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020 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

31-Aug-10 30-Sep-10 30-Jun-11 30-Jun-09 19-Apr-10 30-Jun-10 30-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 10-Oct-13 27-Nov-13 31-Dec-13 31-Dec-13 06-Jan-14

12.50 13.00 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 14.75 13.50 15.00 14.50 15.00

8.50 2.16 4.86 5.73 57.00 25.73 25.00 30.81 9.00 13.73 10.20 27.00 16.23 80.00 25.70 11.10 87.50 5.00 4.55 4.56

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

454.33 438.50

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

*UPDC *FLOURMILLS *CHELLARAMS NAHCO FSDH UBA *C & I LEASING *DANA#{r} *TOWER# *TOWER# UBA *LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS# *DANA#{r} NAHCO UBA STANBIC IBTC STANBIC IBTC

10.00 UPDC 17-AUG-2015 12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015 14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016 13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 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 22-SEP-2018 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 16.45 UBA I 30-DEC-2021 182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IA 30-SEP-2024 13.25 STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

17-Aug-10 09-Dec-10 06-Jan-11 29-Sep-11 25-Oct-13 30-Sep-10 30-Nov-12 09-Apr-11 09-Sep-11 09-Sep-11 22-Sep-11 18-Oct-13 17-Feb-12 01-Apr-14 14-Nov-13 30-Dec-14 30-Sep-14 30-Sep-14

10.00 12.00 14.00 13.00 14.25 13.00 18.00 16.00 18.00 16.00 14.00 15.75 18.00 16.00 15.25 16.45 11.93 13.25

2.50 18.75 0.42 15.00 5.53 20.00 0.64 6.30 2.54 0.70 35.00 2.40 0.36 4.50 2.05 30.50 0.10 15.44

162.73

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

160.06

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

IFC

Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P

AfDB

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

11-Feb-18

2.86

1.00

15.02

89.07

11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021

10-Jul-14

11.25

12.95

01-Feb-21

4.75

1.00

15.12

86.17

Bid Price

Offer Price

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

24.95 21.85 Issuer

Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value ($mm)

Maturity Date

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

6.75 JAN 28, 2021

07-Oct-11

6.75

500.00

28-Jan-21

5.78

5.55

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

12-Jul-13

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

5.14

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

12-Jul-13

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

6.06

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

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

FGN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,533.51

104.73

105.88

4.83

99.95

100.87

5.90

102.03

103.04

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

AFREN PLC I

11.50 FEB 01, 2016

01-Feb-11

11.50

450.00

01-Feb-16

124.92

48.00

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC I

7.50 MAY 19, 2016

19-May-11

7.50

500.00

19-May-16

6.54

4.58

101.00

103.13

B+/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC

B/Fitch; B/S&P

FIDELITY BANK PLC

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC

B/Fitch

AFREN PLC II

B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P

ZENITH BANK PLC

B/Fitch; B/S&P

DIAMOND BANK PLC

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

FIRST BANK PLC

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

AFREN PLC III ACCESS BANK PLC II FIRST BANK LTD

B-/S&P

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

11.28

92.00

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

12.91

11.18

85.01

89.00

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

10.25 APR 08, 2019

7.54

7.08

95.24

96.63

08-Apr-12

10.25

300.00

08-Apr-19

6.25 APR 22, 2019

39.35

43.63

22-Apr-14

6.25

500.00

22-Apr-19

8.56

92.24

8.75 May 21, 2019

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

8.25 AUG 07, 2020

14.27

13.32

83.20

85.83

07-Aug-13

8.25

300.00

07-Aug-20

6.63 DEC 09, 2020 9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021 8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021

13.44

80.00

09-Dec-13 24-Jun-14 23-Jul-14

6.63 9.25 8.00

360.00 400.00 450.00

09-Dec-20 24-Jun-21 23-Jul-21

25.16 13.64 11.33

25.16 13.02 11.33

45.50 81.89 84.50

45.50 84.17 84.50

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

14-Aug-14

8.75

250.00

14-Aug-21

10.87

10.42

89.63

91.50

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

4,760.00 3,773.11

**Treasury Bills^ DTM 7 14 21 28 35 42 49 63

FIXINGS Maturity 9-Apr-15 16-Apr-15 23-Apr-15 30-Apr-15 7-May-15 14-May-15 21-May-15 4-Jun-15

Bid Discount (%) 9.66 13.03 12.92 13.10 9.84 12.50 13.64 13.29

Offer Discount (%) 9.41 12.78 12.67 12.85 9.59 12.25 13.39 13.04

Bid Yield (%) 9.67 13.09 13.01 13.23 9.93 12.68 13.89 13.60

Money Market Tenor

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 10.3750 14.4561 15.9700 16.7460

Rate (%)

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards)

OBB

9.50

Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

O/N

10.17

Spot 7D 14D 1M 2M 3M

199.05 201.81 202.13 202.87 204.24 205.60

199.15 201.93 202.28 203.37 205.31 207.21

Tenor Call 1M

REPO

Rate (%) 9.50 10.00

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

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

28-Nov-08 22-May-09 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10 18-Jul-14

15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493

75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 254.50

28-Nov-28 22-May-29 20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30 18-Jul-34

13.66 14.14 14.64 15.31 19.29

16.52 16.87 17.28 15.42 14.05

16.46 16.80 17.18 15.35 14.00

91.80 76.60 53.66 68.42 87.39

92.10 76.90 53.96 68.72 87.69

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Indicative Price

2.63 2.27 2.00 1.00 2.85

16.51 17.14 16.00 14.98 16.84

5,023.13

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

4,673.25

Rating/Agency

Description

Issuer

Agency Bonds NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 FMBN

0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 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

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

24-May-12 03-Apr-12 09-Dec-11 20-Apr-12 06-Jul-12

0.00 17.25 0.00/16.00 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50

24.56 2.40 112.22 116.70 66.49

Business | Financial Market News 24-May-15 03-Apr-17 08-Dec-16 19-Apr-17 06-Jul-17

0.14 0.88 1.69 2.05 2.26

97.64 100.21 99.92 101.86 95.32

Nigerian Breweries increases shares outstanding ***LCRM

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

322.38

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

320.77

Sub-National Bonds

7,929,100,888 a were added to the31-Aug-10 share 12.50units KADUNA as 31-AUG-2015 30-Sep-10 13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015 result of absorption of outstanding of Nigerian 30-Jun-11 14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016 shares it offered to mi- Breweries Plc, thus30-Jun-09 bring15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016 Minority 19-Apr-10 10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017 nority shareholders of ing the total outstanding 30-Jun-10 13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017 shareholders of Consolidated Breweries shares of the company to 30-Dec-10 14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017 DELTA 30-SEP-2018 following its14.00 merger with 7,929,100,888 units.”30-Sep-11 Consolidated 04-Oct-11 14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018 Nigerian Breweries Plc. The Chief Execu09-Dec-11 14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018 Breweries allotted In a notice obtained 12-Dec-13 14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 tive Officer of Nigerian 14-Feb-12 15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019 366m ordinary from the Nigerian Stock Breweries, Mr. Nicolaas 02-Oct-12 15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 Vervelde, had said the Exchange (NSE), “a total 22-Nov-12 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 shares 12-Dec-12 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 merger was expected to of 366,396,456 ordinary 10-Oct-13 14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020 create value for all key shares of 50 Kobo each, 27-Nov-13 13.50 LAGOS 27-NOV-2020 15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020 being scheme shares allot- stakeholders, drive31-Dec-13 bene31-Dec-13 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 Stories by Chris Ugwu ted to minority members fits from increased econo06-Jan-14 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021 of Consolidated Brewer- mies of scale and enhance TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE igerian Brew- ies Plc as a result of the operating and administraTOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION eries Plc has merger between Nigerian tive efficiencies. Corporate Bonds 10.00 UPDCConsol17-AUG-2015 increased*UPDC its Breweries Plc and Heineken NV, 17-Aug-10 which ‡ /Agusto 12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015 BBB-/Agusto 09-Dec-10 number *FLOURMILLS of idated Breweries Plc at a was a major stakeholder 14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016 BB/GCR 06-Jan-11 *CHELLARAMS outstanding shares to price of N120 per share – and 13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 in both companies29-Sep-11 A+/Agusto; A-/GCR NAHCO 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 A-/Agusto 25-Oct-13 FSDH in favour of the merger, 13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 A/GCR 30-Sep-10 UBA had observed interna18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017 BBB-/GCR 30-Nov-12 *C & I LEASING A/Agusto A-/Agusto BBB+/Agusto ‡ /Agusto A+/Agusto; ‡ /GCR ‡ /Agusto ‡ /Agusto ‡ /Agusto; A+/GCR ‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR ‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR† ‡ /Agusto ‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR BBB+/Agusto; A-/GCR Aa-/Agusto; ‡ /GCR BBB-/Agusto; A-/GCR BBB-/Agusto Aa-/Agusto; ‡ /GCR A-/Agusto; BBB+/DataPro ‡ /Agusto A-/GCR

MERGER

KADUNA *EBONYI *BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO *DELTA NIGER *EKITI *NIGER *ONDO *GOMBE LAGOS *OSUN *OSUN LAGOS KOGI *EKITI *NASARAWA

tional12.50 best practice8.50 at the 13.00 2.16 court-ordered meeting by 14.00 4.86 deciding 15.50 not to exercise 5.73 10.00 right, avoiding 57.00 its voting 13.75 25.73 any possible doubts 14.00 25.00 on 14.00 30.81 of its integrity/conflicts 14.00 9.00 interest in the deal. 14.50 13.73 Under the merger, 14.00 10.20 15.50 27.00 shareholders of Consoli15.50 16.23 dated14.50 Breweries 80.00 are to 25.70 as of 14.75 the terminal date 14.75 11.10 receive 13.50 four ordinary 87.50 15.00 shares in Nigerian5.00 Brew14.50 4.55 eries 15.00 for every five4.56ordinary shares held454.33 in the Consolidated Breweries 438.50 or a cash consideration 10.00 2.50 of of N120 per share 12.00 18.75 Consolidated Breweries 14.00 0.42 shares held. 13.00 15.00 14.25 Reacting to the 5.53 merg13.00 20.00 er arrangement, some 18.00 0.64

31-Aug-15market 0.41 19.02 97.44. capital operators 4.44 tively on profitability 30-Sep-15 0.50 3.23 17.95 97.73 described the proposed According to him, the 30-Jun-16 0.77 4.46 19.29 96.37 business consolidation merger will ensure 30-Jun-16 0.77 3.48 18.31 98.01 the 19-Apr-17 the two 2.05 14.98 has adequate 91.48 between brewing 1.00 company 30-Jun-17 1.31 1.00 15.36 98.14 companies as a step that capital to fund all invest31-Dec-17 2.75 1.79 15.81 96.03 30-Sep-18 2.13 1.80 ments required 15.78 96.98 would enhance shareholdto operate 04-Oct-18 1.93 1.00 14.98 98.49 ers’ return on investment. competitively . 09-Dec-18 2.12 1.00 14.98 99.13 A founding 2.12 member 4.78 He said com12-Dec-18 18.76 that the 92.26 2.31 1.00 14.99 100.88 of14-Feb-19 the Nigeria Sharepany should ensure en02-Oct-19 3.06 1.00 15.04 101.04 holders dividend97.93 to the 22-Nov-19 Solidarity 4.64 Asso- 1.00 hanced15.12 12-Dec-19 15.01 99.43 ciation, Alhaji 2.71 Gbadebo 1.00 shareholders during the 10-Oct-20 3.17 1.00 15.05 99.30 Olatokunbo, said that 1.00 post-merger era to com27-Nov-20 5.66 15.13 93.90 31-Dec-20 5.75 1.00 pensate 15.13 the business consolidathem for99.44their 31-Dec-20 3.41 1.44 15.50 97.48 tion would increase the support. 06-Jan-21 3.44 1.00 15.06 99.77 Nigerian Breweries’ marOlatokunbo, however, ket share of the nation’s urged other companies listed on the nation’s brewery market. 17-Aug-15 98.01 the to emulate Olatokunbo, 0.38 who com- 1.00 bourse 15.53 09-Dec-15 0.44 15.62 98.49 Nigerian Breweries and mended the merger, said 1.00 06-Jan-16 0.52 2.63 17.36 98.40 Breweries that the company’s cost 1.00 Consolidated 29-Sep-16 1.49 15.04 97.36 1.56 be mi- 1.34 initiative 15.36 98.48 of 25-Oct-16 business would to upscale their 30-Sep-17 2.50 1.00 15.00 95.96 nimised and impact posigrowth. 30-Nov-17 1.52 1.88 15.90 103.39

Okomu Oil reports 27% drop in pre-tax profit

UAC posts 8% growth in net earnings

komu Oil Plc has ended December 31, 2013 recorded a 26.6 per decreased as the comNAHCO UBA cent drop in profit pany’s profit after tax STANBIC IBTC on continuing operation dipped to N425.09 million STANBIC IBTC beforeOUTSTANDING tax for theVALUE finan- against the N8.95 billion TOTAL TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION cial year ended Decem- posted in 2012. ber 31, 2014. The result which was Supranational Bond According to a notice contained 10.20 in IFC the com11-FEB-2018 AAA/S&P IFC 11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021 Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P AfDB by the Nigerian Stock Ex- pany’s audited result TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE change (NSE), Okomu Oil, released by the Nigerian TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION one of the big commercial Stock Exchange (NSE) showed a decrease of operators in the Nigerian Issuer Description Rating/Agency palm oil sector, posted a pre- 95.25 per cent in net profit FGN Eurobonds tax profit of N2.127 billion over the figure in 2012. in 2014B+/S&P year end as against The profit before 6.75 taxJAN 28, 2021 BB-/Fitch; N2.693 billion posted a year FGN also declined by 38.17 5.13 perJUL 12, 2018 BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P earlier, accounting for a cent to N2.69 billion from BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P N4.35 billion achieved6.38 inJUL 12, 2023 drop of 26.6 per cent TOTAL VALUE ItsOUTSTANDING profit on continuing the corresponding period TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION operation after tax equally of 2012 while gross profit dipped by 4.6 per cent from stood at N4.99 billion in Corporate Eurobonds N601.381 million as against bil-FEB 01, 2016 B/Fitch; B-/S&P AFREN PLC Icontrast to the N6.31 11.50 7.50a MAY 19, 2016 B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK I N574.541 million recorded a PLClion achieved in 2012, 7.25 JUL 25, 2017 B+/S&P ACCESS BANK PLC year earlier while turnover decrease of 20.92 per cent. 6.88 MAY 09, 2018 B/Fitch; B/S&P FIDELITY BANK PLC dropped slightly by 2.4 per The company’s turn6.00 NOV 08, 2018 B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC cent to close at N8.655 bil-PLC IIover stood at N8.86 10.25 bil-APR 08, 2019 B/Fitch AFREN B+/Fitch; ZENITH BANK PLC against N10.15 6.25 lion inBB-/S&P contrast to N8.860 lion bil-APR 22, 2019 8.75 May 21, 2019 B/Fitch; B/S&P DIAMOND BANK PLC million in 2013. lion achieved in 2012, 8.25 AUG 07, 2020 B-/Fitch; B/S&P FIRST BANK PLC representing a decrease Okomu’s performance 6.63 DEC 09, 2020 B-/Fitch; B/S&P AFREN PLC III 9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021 B-/Fitch; B/S&P had for theACCESS II indicators year BANK ofPLC 12.71 per cent. 8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021

AC of Nigeria Plc billion in 2014 while revenue (UAC) has reported recorded a marginal increase 7.9 per cent increase of one per cent to N60.545 bilin net earnings for the finan- lion as against N60.030 billion cial year ended, December 31, 162.73 in 2013. 2014. The company had posted 160.06 The company in a filing a commendable top –line growth of 11-Feb-18 13 per cent from with11-Feb-13 Nigerian Stock10.20 Exchange 12.00 2.86 10-Jul-14 11.25 01-Feb-21 4.75 (NSE) posted a profit after tax 12.95 N69.6 billion in 2012 to N78.7 of N10.726 billion during the 24.95 billion in 2013. Operational period under review as against 21.85 profit grew from N11.5 bilN78.714 billion recorded in lionValue in 2012 to N15.3 Bid billion Outstanding Issue Date Coupon (%) Maturity Date Yield (%) 2013, representing an increase ($mm) in 2013. Profit after tax went up by of 7.9 per cent. 07-Oct-11 6.75 41 per cent 28-Jan-21 to N9.95 billion Profit after tax firmed up 500.00 5.78 in 2013 to N7 billion in the commarginally from N13.935 bil12-Jul-13 5.13 500.00 12-Jul-18 5.14 lion a year earlier in contrast parable period of 2012. 12-Jul-13 12-Jul-23 6.06 to N14.096 billion 6.38 posted in 500.00As a result of the perfor2014, accounting for 1.14 per 1,500.00 mance, the board had recom1,533.51 cent growth. mended for approval a diviRevenue went up to N85.654 dend of N3.3 billion or N1.75 billion in 2014 from kobo per ordinary share 01-Feb-11 11.50N78.714 450.00 01-Feb-16 124.92of 19-May-11 6.54 billion recorded in7.50 2013, rep- 500.00 fifty kobo 19-May-16 each, less with25-Jul-12 7.25 11.28 resenting 8.10 per cent growth 350.00 holding tax.25-Jul-17 09-May-13 6.88 300.00 02-May-18 from08-Nov-13 the previous year. The dividend declared12.91 was 6.00 400.00 08-Nov-18 7.54 The company had posted a 300.00 a 9.4 per cent increase in39.35 divi08-Apr-12 10.25 08-Apr-19 22-Apr-14 6.25 22-Apr-19 8.56 of 20 per cent drop in profit after 500.00 dend payment to investors 21-May-14 8.75 200.00 21-May-19 14.27 tax for the nine months ended the company when compared 07-Aug-13 8.25 300.00 07-Aug-20 13.44 (Q3)09-Dec-13 September 30, 6.63 2014 from 360.00 to the N1.6009-Dec-20 kobo paid in25.16 year 24-Jun-14 9.25 400.00 24-Jun-21 13.64 N5.872 billion in 2013 to N4.669 2012 end.

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

*DANA#{r} *TOWER# *TOWER#

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

FIRST BANK LTD

B-/S&P

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

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

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 22-SEP-2018 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 16.45 UBA I 30-DEC-2021 182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IA 30-SEP-2024 13.25 STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

09-Apr-11 09-Sep-11 09-Sep-11 22-Sep-11 18-Oct-13 17-Feb-12 01-Apr-14 14-Nov-13 30-Dec-14 30-Sep-14 30-Sep-14

16.00 18.00 16.00 14.00 15.75 18.00 16.00 15.25 16.45 11.93 13.25

6.30 2.54 0.70 35.00 2.40 0.36 4.50 2.05 30.50 0.10 15.44

23-Jul-14

8.00

14-Aug-14

8.75

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

09-Apr-18 09-Sep-18 09-Sep-18 22-Sep-18 18-Oct-18 17-Feb-19 01-Apr-19 14-Nov-20 30-Dec-21 30-Sep-24 30-Sep-24

1.52 1.94 1.94 3.47 1.79 2.13 2.75 5.62 6.75 9.50 9.50

450.00

23-Jul-21

11.33

250.00

14-Aug-21

10.87

1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 2.29 6.11 2.16 2.76 1.13 1.00 1.00

15.02 14.98 14.98 15.07 16.28 20.09 16.18 16.89 15.27 15.31 15.31

101.26 104.73 101.58 97.18 99.23 96.68 99.63 94.14 104.80 83.33 89.84

11.33

84.50

10.42

89.63

Chemical and Allied Products (CAP) Plc , one of UAC subsidiaries, had also recorded a 17 per cent growth in net earnings for the financial year ended December 31, 2014. The company in a filing with the Nigerian Stock 1.00 15.02 89.07 1.00 15.12 86.17 Exchange (NSE) posted a profit after tax of N1.662 billion during the year end as against N1.416 billionOffer inPrice 2013. Offer Yield (%) Bid Price The company’s revenue Prices Yields grew by&13 per cent to N6.987 billion in 2014 N6.195 5.55 104.73 from 105.88 billion in 2013. 4.83 99.95 100.87 The company had also re102.03 5.90 corded a 19 per cent 103.04 growth in net earnings during the third quarter ended September 31, 2014. According to a notice from 124.92 48.00 48.00 4.58 the company 101.00 103.13 NSE, posted a 11.28 after 92.00 92.00 bilprofit tax of N1.128 11.18 89.00 lion during 85.01 the third quarter 7.08 95.24 96.63 as39.35 against N946.2 million in 43.63 43.63 8.56 92.24 92.24 2013. 13.32 83.20 Its revenue grew by85.83 15 per 13.44 80.00 80.00 cent to N5.054 in 2014 25.16 45.50billion 45.50 13.02 N4.412 81.89 84.17 from billion in 2013. 91.50

2-Apr-15

4,760.00 3,773.11

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 **Treasury Bills^ FIXINGS Money Market Exchange (Spot Forwards)the 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 orForeign up to date. We do not &guarantee DTM Maturity Bid Discount (%) Offer Discount (%) Bid Yield (%) Tenor Rate (%) NIBOR 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. 7 9-Apr-15 9.66 9.41 9.67 14 16-Apr-15 13.03 21 23-Apr-15 12.92 28 30-Apr-15 13.10 FGN Bonds 35 7-May-15 9.84 42 14-May-15 12.50 49 21-May-15 13.64 Issuer Description Rating/Agency 63 4-Jun-15 13.29 70 11-Jun-15 13.17 4.00 23-APR-2015 84 25-Jun-15 13.50 91 2-Jul-15 13.59 ^13.05 16-AUG-2016 105 16-Jul-15 13.69 ^15.10 27-APR-2017 112 23-Jul-15 13.60 9.85 27-JUL-2017 119 30-Jul-15 13.59 9.35 31-AUG-2017 126 6-Aug-15 13.53 133 13-Aug-15 13.59 10.70 30-MAY-2018 147 27-Aug-15 11.80 ^16.00 29-JUN-2019 154 3-Sep-15 13.39 7.00 23-OCT-2019 161 10-Sep-15 13.55 NA NA 15.54 13-FEB-2020 175 24-Sep-15 13.65 182 1-Oct-15 13.72 ^16.39 27-JAN-2022 196 15-Oct-15 14.50 ^14.20 14-MAR-2024 245 3-Dec-15 12.55 15.00 28-NOV-2028 259 17-Dec-15 13.09 12.49 22-MAY-2029 280 7-Jan-16 13.45 294 21-Jan-16 13.65 8.50 20-NOV-2029 308 4-Feb-16 13.42 ^10.00 23-JUL-2030 322 18-Feb-16 13.64 ^12.1493 13.80 18-JUL-2034 336 3-Mar-16 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE 350 17-Mar-16 13.37 357 24-Mar-16 13.46 TOTAL MARKETbonds, CAPITALISATION *for the Amortising the average life is calculated and not the duration

12.78 12.67 12.85 9.59 12.25 13.39 Issue Date 13.04 12.92 23-Apr-10 13.25 13.34 16-Aug-13 13.44 27-Apr-12 13.35 27-Jul-07 13.34 31-Aug-07 13.28 13.34 30-May-08 11.55 29-Jun-12 13.14 23-Oct-09 13.30 13-Feb-15 13.40 13.47 27-Jan-12 14.25 14-Mar-14 12.30 28-Nov-08 12.84 22-May-09 13.20 13.40 20-Nov-09 13.17 23-Jul-10 13.39 18-Jul-14 13.55 13.12 13.21

13.09 13.01 13.23 9.93 12.68 13.89 Coupon (%) 13.60 13.51 4.00 13.93 14.07 13.05 14.25 15.10 14.19 9.85 14.22 9.35 14.19 14.30 10.70 12.39 16.00 14.19 7.00 14.41 15.54 14.61 14.72 16.39 15.72 14.20 13.70 15.00 14.43 12.49 14.99 15.33 8.50 15.14 10.00 15.50 12.1493 15.81 15.34 15.50

Bonds

Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Rate (%) 10.3750 14.4561 15.9700 16.7460

9.50

Tenor

O/N

10.17

Spot 7D 14D 1M 2M Offer3M Yield 6M 10.94 1Y

REPO

Tenor Call

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs) 1M 3M 0.06 6M

NITTY

535.00 23-Apr-15 Tenor Rate (%) 581.39 16-Aug-16 1M 12.1032 476.80 27-Apr-17 2M 13.8784 20.00 27-Jul-17 3M 14.1178 100.00 31-Aug-17 6M 14.6766 9M 14.8472 300.00 30-May-18 12M 15.3503 351.30 29-Jun-19 233.90 23-Oct-19 54.00 13-Feb-20 NIFEX 600.00 27-Jan-22 Current Price ($/N) 499.68 14-Mar-24 BID($/N) 199.0000 75.00 28-Nov-28 OFFER ($/N) 199.1000 150.00 22-May-29 200.00 20-Nov-29 591.57 23-Jul-30 254.50 18-Jul-34

OBB

Rate (%) 9.50

Bid10.00 Yield (%) 10.50 13.53 11.00

Bid ($/N)

(%)

1.37 14.09 13.97 2.07 14.01 13.93 2.32 13.99 13.91 :Benchmarks 2.41Bond 13.99 13.91 * :Amortising µ :Convertible Bond 3.16 14.04 13.92 AMCON: Asset of Nigeria 4.24 Management Corporation 14.12 14.03 FGN: Federal Government of Nigeria 4.56 14.12 14.01 FMBN: Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria 4.87 Finance Corporation 14.12 14.04 IFC: International LCRM: Local Management 6.82Contractors Receivables 14.14 14.07 NAHCO: Nigerian Aviation Handling 8.95 14.11 Company14.05 O/N: Overnight 13.66 16.52 Company 16.46 UPDC: UAC Property Development 14.14Africa Portland16.87 16.80 WAPCO:West Cement Company 14.64 17.28 17.18 15.31 15.42 15.35 19.29 14.05 14.00 NOTE:

199.05 201.81 202.13 202.87 204.24 Bid Price 205.60 206.28 99.44 220.29

Offer ($/N)

Price

199.15 201.93 202.28 203.37 205.31Price Offer 207.21 213.47 99.59 226.27

98.70 98.85 101.87 102.02 91.99 92.14 NA :Not Applicable 90.74 90.89 ^ : Market Prices # : Floating Rate Bond 91.65 91.95 ***: Deferred 105.78coupon bonds 106.08 76.64 76.94 ‡ : Bond rating under review †: Bond104.82 rating expired 105.12 N/A :Not109.60 Available 109.90 {r} :Issuer in receivership100.74 100.44 91.80 92.10 NGC: Nigeria-German Company 76.60Bank for Africa 76.90 UBA: United 53.66 53.96 68.42 68.72 87.39 87.69

5,023.13 4,673.25

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

Rating/Agency

Issuer

Agency Bonds

0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 Porfolio Market Total Outstanding 0.00/16.00 LCRM 08-DEC-2016 Value(Bn) Volume(Bn) 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 19-APR-2017 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017 1,431.09 1,409.48

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

FMDQ FGN BOND INDEX

0.00/16.50 44.48 0.00/16.50

3<5

1,159.46

1,099.68

32.78

36.03

627.18

846.07

25.22

19.49

322.380.33

3,217.73

3,355.23

100.00

Modified Duration Buckets

***LCRM

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

Issue Date

24.56 2.40 Bucket 112.22 Weighting 116.70 66.49 0.42

FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Description

Market

24-May-12 03-Apr-12 Weighting by 09-Dec-11 Outstanding Vol 20-Apr-12 42.01 06-Jul-12

0.00 17.25

Weighting by Mkt 0.00/16.00 Value

0.25

320.771.00

Maturity Date

24-May-15 03-Apr-17

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

# Risk Premium (%)

Indicative Price

19-Apr-17 19.93 06-Jul-17

0.14 0.88 Implied1.69 Yield 2.05 14.08 2.26

105.6282 2.85

16.51 17.14 16.00 INDEX 14.98 1,183.45 16.84

38.46

14.12

109.2172

1,089.78

7.6250

41.61

14.91

73.2831

1,030.00

2.2823

100.00

14.44

98.6482

1,114.72

5.6420

% Exposure_ 08-Dec-16 Mod_Duration

2.63 2.27

Valuation Yield (%)

Implied 2.00 Portfolio Price

1.00

97.64 100.21

YTD Return 99.92 (%)

101.86 6.8244 95.32

Sub-National Bonds A/Agusto A-/Agusto BBB+/Agusto ‡ /Agusto A+/Agusto; ‡ /GCR ‡ /Agusto ‡ /Agusto ‡ /Agusto; A+/GCR ‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR

KADUNA *EBONYI *BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO *DELTA NIGER

31-Aug-10 30-Sep-10 30-Jun-11 30-Jun-09 19-Apr-10 30-Jun-10 30-Dec-10 30-Sep-11 04-Oct-11

12.50 13.00 14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00 14.00

8.50 2.16 4.86 5.73 57.00 25.73 25.00 30.81 9.00

31-Aug-15 30-Sep-15 30-Jun-16 30-Jun-16 19-Apr-17 30-Jun-17 31-Dec-17 30-Sep-18 04-Oct-18

0.41 0.50 0.77 0.77 2.05 1.31 2.75 2.13 1.93

4.44 3.23 4.46 3.48 1.00 1.00 1.79 1.80 1.00

19.02 17.95 19.29 18.31 14.98 15.36 15.81 15.78 14.98

97.44 97.73 96.37 98.01 91.48 98.14 96.03 96.98 98.49

Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015

Business | Capital Market

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025

Daily Summary (Bonds)

No Debt Trading Activity

Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025

The Nigerian Stock Market Exchange as at April 2, 2015 Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (Equities) Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Crop Production FTN COCOA PROCESSORS PLC OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC. Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals

Symbol FTNCOCOA OKOMUOIL PRESCO Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 2 42 31 75

Current Price 0.50 28.29 28.50

No. of Deals 37 37

Current Price 2.48

AGRICULTURE Totals CONGLOMERATES Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 Diversified Industries Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025 JOHN HOLT PLC. S C O A NIG. PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals

112 Symbol JOHNHOLT SCOA TRANSCORP UACN Daily Summary

No. of Deals 2 1 547 233 (Equities) 783

Activity Summary on Board EQTY CONGLOMERATES Totals CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Building Structure/Completion/Other

Current Price 0.94 4.44 3.59 36.02

783

Quantity Traded 7,000 555,882 531,340 1,094,222

Value Traded 3,500.00 15,846,316.76 15,267,911.36 31,117,728.12

Quantity Traded 1,226,511 1,226,511

Value Traded 3,010,836.59 3,010,836.59

2,320,733

34,128,564.71

Quantity Traded 3,500 120 92,068,232 24,814,005 116,885,857

Value Traded 3,290.00 506.40 322,812,897.19 918,486,798.89 1,241,303,492.48

116,885,857

1,241,303,492.48

Page Quantity Traded 836,034 836,034

No. of Deals 18 18

Current Price 0.70

Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 57 57

Current Price 50.26

Quantity Traded 518,258 518,258

Value Traded 26,199,255.90 26,199,255.90

Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 62 62

Current Price 11.40

Quantity Traded 935,342 935,342

Value Traded 10,298,660.64 10,298,660.64

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Symbol UNION HOMES REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST (REIT) UHOMREIT UPDC REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST UPDCREIT Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Totals Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025 CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals

No. of Deals 1 1 2

Current Price 45.22 10.00

Quantity Traded 46 493 539

Value Traded 1,976.16 4,930.00 6,906.16

2,290,173

37,087,986.50

Quantity Traded 3,978,072 576,687 2,074,666 13,211,506 181 Quantity Traded

Value Traded 31,610,490.29 80,888,366.36 47,393,224.74 2,292,590,848.11 631.69 Value Traded

CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. CONSUMER GOODS PREMIER BREWERIES PLC Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Food Products DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NATIONAL SALT CO. NIG. PLC N NIG. FLOUR MILLS PLC. UNION DICON SALT PLC. Food Products Totals Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 Food Products--Diversified Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025 CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. VONO PRODUCTS PLC. HouseholdGOODS Durables Totals CONSUMER

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Personal/Household Products Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC.© UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals CONSUMER GOODS Totals Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 Printed 02/04/2015 FINANCIAL15:09:25.025 SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY BANK PLC. Activity SummaryTRUST on Board EQTY SKYE BANK PLC FINANCIAL SERVICES STERLING BANK PLC. Banking UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals

139

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Daily Summary (Equities) CHAMPION GUINNESS INTBREW NB PREMBREW Symbol

103 58 51 249 1 No. of Deals 462

7.38 139.00 22.87 166.25 3.61 Current Price

19,841,112

Page Quantity Traded 27,364 27,364 Quantity Traded 268,361 5,510,262 2,281,572 2,248,399 6,287,123 10,447 907 16,607,071

Value Traded 1,145,206.27 42,924,486.00 84,689,369.94 7,373,901.20 51,826,601.33 197,970.65 10,766.38 188,168,301.77

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 41 16 57

Current Price 40.00 936.60

Quantity Traded 925,044 56,914 981,958

Value Traded 37,267,554.64 53,305,652.40 90,573,207.04

Symbol VITAFOAM VONO

No. of Deals 45 2 47

Current Price 4.12 0.89

Quantity Traded 5,408,581 100,000 5,508,581

Value Traded 21,569,950.77 89,000.00 21,658,950.77

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

No. of Deals 42 48 90

Current Price 29.19 44.45

Quantity Traded Page 288,000

Value Traded 3 8,359,374.98 of 13 28,226,605.24 36,585,980.22

Symbol ACCESS DIAMONDBNK Daily ETISummary FIDELITYBK GUARANTY SKYEBANK STERLNBANK Symbol UBA UBN UNITYBNK WEMABANK ZENITHBANK

43,907,560

2,793,880,274.49 Value Traded 303,803,151.91 181,599,268.60 238,824,866.90 288,969,166.01 4,212,750,825.76 63,445,307.89 20,932,294.87 Value Traded 577,279,932.94 44,953,992.76 343,525.00 4,008,407.72 2,813,624,596.74 8,750,535,337.10

Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Symbol No. of Deals AIICO INSURANCE PLC. AIICO 34 CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CONTINSURE 7 CORNERSTONE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC. CORNERST 1 Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © PLC GREAT NIGERIAN INSURANCE GNI 1 CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC HMARKINS 2 INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC INTENEGINS 7 MANSARD INSURANCE PLC MANSARD 4 N.E.M INSURANCE NEM 5 Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 CO (NIG) PLC. NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. NIGERINS 3 Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025 PRESTIGE ASSURANCE CO. PLC. PRESTIGE 1 SOVEREIGN TRUST INSURANCE PLC SOVRENINS 2 WAPIC INSURANCE PLC WAPIC 81 Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Daily Summary (Equities) 148

Current Price 1.02 0.94 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.55 3.05 0.75 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.58

Quantity Traded 2,623,996 138,145 1,000 Page 5,000

Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FBN HOLDINGS PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UBA CAPITAL PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals

Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

589,000 634,603 54,500 133,500 350,000 200,000 385,000 17,798,236 22,912,980

INDUSTRIAL GOODS

Building Materials Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC EQTY Activity Summary on Board CAP PLC CEMENTGOODS CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC INDUSTRIAL Building Materials DANGOTE CEMENT PLC DN MEYER PLC. PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC PREMIER PAINTS PLC. LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals

OIL AND GAS Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Published by TheSummary Nigerian Stock Exchange © Totals Energy Equipment Services Activity on and Board EQTY

OILIntegrated AND GAS Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Integrated Oil and Gas Services

Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Exploration and Production Totals Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 Printed OIL 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025 AND GAS Totals SERVICES Automobile/Auto Part Retailers R T BRISCOE PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC SERVICES TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Courier/Freight/Delivery Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals

Hotels/Lodging IKEJA HOTEL PLC TOURIST COMPANY OF NIGERIA PLC. TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC Hotels/Lodging Totals Printing/Publishing LEARN AFRICA PLC UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC. Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 Printing/Publishing Totals

294,500.00 348,168.32 168,850.00 100,125.00 175,000.00 100,000.00 192,500.00 10,275,348.06 14,436,151.38

Road Transportation ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC Road Transportation Totals Specialty Activity Summary on BoardTECHNOLOGY EQTY SECURE ELECTRONIC PLC Specialty SERVICES Totals

Transport-Related Services NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC Support and Logistics Totals

Current Price 1.06

Quantity Traded 3,518,300 3,518,300

Value Traded 3,696,636.79 3,696,636.79

EQTY Board Totals

Symbol RESORTSAL

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 200,000 Page 200,000

Value Traded 5 100,000.00 of 13 100,000.00

Activity Summary on Board ASeM

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FBNH FCMB ROYALEX STANBIC UBCAP

No. of Deals 111 23 985 253 2 57 159 1,590

Current Price 2.84 4.16 9.54 3.18 0.54 31.00 1.53

Quantity Traded 4,301,371 12,739,612 64,872,850 72,020,670 97,000 17,798,871 10,436,151 182,266,525

Value Traded 12,333,538.32 53,847,236.52 625,389,395.58 232,159,568.06 52,380.00 573,030,430.98 16,022,771.47 1,512,835,320.93

863,145,490

10,281,603,446.20

Symbol MORISON

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.82

Quantity Traded 1,000 1,000

Value Traded 1,730.00 1,730.00

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER

No. of Deals 6 61 32 23

Current Price 2.20 3.41 51.04 1.66

Quantity Traded 267,200 2,581,774 375,402 486,291

Value Traded 579,260.00 8,812,549.52 18,971,288.56 807,243.06

Page

29,180,096.74

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 29,889 29,889

Value Traded 14,944.50 14,944.50

Symbol OMATEK

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 500 500

Value Traded 250.00 250.00

Symbol CWG

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 4.00

Quantity Traded 15,000 15,000

Value Traded 57,000.00 57,000.00

Symbol CHAMS

No. of Deals 21 21

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 70,899,057 70,899,057

Value Traded 35,452,128.50 35,452,128.50

70,944,446

35,524,323.00

Daily Summary (Equities)

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Daily Summary (Equities) ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP CCNN Symbol DANGCEM DNMEYER PORTPAINT PREMPAINTS WAPCO

51 36 25 14 No. of Deals 143 1 6 1 115 392

21.40 9.06 34.00 12.60 Current182.00 Price 0.83 3.46 10.93 93.00

Symbol CUTIX

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.66

CONSUMER GOODS Food Products MCNICHOLS PLC Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 Food Products Totals Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025

Symbol THOMASWY

No. of Deals 2 2

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol No. of Deals Current Price JAPAULOIL

Name LOTUS HALAL EQUITY ETF NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) STANBIC IBTC ETF 30 VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

Value Traded 83,000.00 83,000.00

22,982,137

3,350,788,305.06

Quantity Traded 2,500 2,500

Value Traded 1,750.00 1,750.00

2,500

1,750.00

Quantity Traded 260 Page 260

Value Traded 130.00 of 130.00 13

1 1

0.50

Symbol OANDO Symbol

No. of Deals 811 No. of Deals

Current Price Current 17.60 Price

Quantity Traded 39,115,792 Quantity Traded

Value Traded 683,950,541.14 Value Traded

Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS TOTAL

No. of Deals 40 28 76 38 7 27 216

Current Price 39.50 3.20 215.00 175.00 50.54 180.07

Quantity Traded 303,929 1,565,090 270,171 111,124 7,700 572,712 2,830,726

Value Traded 12,186,079.73 5,150,764.70 55,802,674.24 19,239,831.67 351,514.00 105,577,270.43 198,308,134.77

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 40 40

Current Price 443.99

Quantity Traded 111,339 111,339

Value Traded 49,319,995.69 49,319,995.69

42,058,117

931,578,801.60

811

39,115,792 Page

1,068

683,950,541.14 9 of 13

Symbol

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.79

Quantity Traded 50,220 50,220

Value Traded 39,673.80 39,673.80

Symbol REDSTAREX TRANSEXPR Symbol

No. of Deals 2 12 No. of Deals

Current Price 3.60 1.24 Current Price

Quantity Traded 22,500 Quantity506,759 Traded

Value Traded 85,050.00 632,695.65 Value Traded

Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals 9 9

Current Price 0.50

Page Quantity Traded 1,672,453 1,672,453

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL TOURIST TRANSCOHOT

No. of Deals 17 1 5 23

Current Price 5.13 3.51 9.63

Quantity Traded 489,640 415 1,845 491,900

Value Traded 2,352,263.80 1,386.10 18,428.20 2,372,078.10

Symbol LEARNAFRCA UPL

No. of Deals 7 6 13

Current Price 1.27 4.70

Quantity Traded 250,000 12,310 262,310

Value Traded 311,500.00 54,903.38 366,403.38

No. of Deals 15 15 Daily Summary (Equities)

Current Price 0.59

Quantity Traded 850,388 850,388

Value Traded 508,478.92 508,478.92 Value Traded 250.00 250.00

Daily Summary (Equities) RTBRISCOE

Symbol ABCTRANS

529,259

717,745.65

Symbol NSLTECH

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 500 500

Symbol NAHCO

No. of Deals 87 87

Current Price 6.75

Quantity Traded 1,979,328 1,979,328 Page

Symbol CAVERTON

No. of Deals 14 14

Current Price 3.30

Quantity Traded 269,696 269,696

Daily Summary (Equities)

Symbol MCNICHOLS

Value Traded 13,027,870.01 13,027,870.01 11 of 13 Value Traded 869,343.18 869,343.18

178

6,106,054

18,742,168.79

1,174,365,294

18,753,819,209.57

Quantity Traded 9,800 9,800

Value Traded 15,540.00 15,540.00

9,800

15,540.00

2 9,006

1,174,375,094

9,800

15,540.00 18,753,834,749.57

Current Price 1.55

Page

Daily Summary (ETP) Symbol LOTUSHAL15 NEWGOLD STANBICETF30 VETGRIF30

10 of 13 Value Traded 840,325.75 840,325.75

9,004

No. of Deals 2 2

ASeM Board Totals

Exchange Traded Fund

Current Price 0.73

7Value Traded of 13 14,100,078.15 4,137,134.40 5,336,110.22 1,171,800.99 Value Traded 2,685,404,207.38 10,398.24 446,340.00 228.58 640,099,007.10 3,350,705,305.06

Quantity Traded 50,000 50,000

Quantity Traded Page 646,954 456,435 143,008 92,907 Quantity Traded 14,905,334 12,528 129,000 22 6,545,949 22,932,137

393

CONSUMER GOODS Totals

3,722,227

No. of Deals 4 4

SERVICES Totals

No. of Deals 13 13

5,029

Value Traded 8,025.60 29,178,366.74

Symbol COURTVILLE

Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025

Value Traded 2,648,060.80 130,599.20 500.00 4 of 13 2,500.00

Symbol NPFMCRFBK

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Medical Supplies MORISON INDUSTRIES PLC. Medical Supplies Totals

2 of 13 Value Traded 4,410,273.50 4,410,273.50

Quantity Traded 10,560 3,721,227

126

NATURAL RESOURCES Totals

2,452,483,561.19

Current Price 0.73

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

NATURAL RESOURCES Paper/Forest Products THOMAS WYATT NIG. PLC. Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 Paper/Forest Products Totals Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025

Current Price 4.27 7.72 36.82 3.30 8.19 18.05 12.46

1,147

No. of Deals 3 125

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals

No. of Deals 26 125 147 29 146 3 2 478

653,474 941,474

Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 ICT Totals Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025

Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON NNFM UNIONDICON

Quantity Traded 45,448,227 39,581,040 12,233,013 139,611,889 141,078,747 23,397,193 8,680,296 Quantity Traded 121,204,001 4,026,811 687,050 3,732,725 114,566,693 654,247,685

Micro-Finance Banks Totals FINANCIAL SERVICES Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services RESORT SAVINGS & LOANS©PLC Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

IT Services COMPUTER WAREHOUSE GROUP PLC Daily Summary as of 02/04/2015 IT Services Totals Printed 02/04/2015 15:09:25.025 Processing Systems CHAMS PLC Processing Systems Totals

Current Price 161.00

Current Price 6.67 4.45 19.51 2.07 31.88 2.64 2.39 Current Price 4.92 11.00 0.50 1.11 25.05

Micro-Finance Banks

Computers and Peripherals OMATEK VENTURES PLC Computers and Peripherals Totals

No. of Deals 13 13

No. of Deals 258 139 (Equities) 70 357 752 213 67 No. of Deals 602 48 4 46 721 3,277

Activity Summary on Board EQTY NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC

ICT Computer Based Systems COURTEVILLE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS PLC Computer Based Systems Totals

Symbol 7UP

Daily Summary (Equities)

Symbol NEIMETH

HEALTHCARE Totals

of 13 Value Traded 583,163.80 583,163.80

Symbol COSTAIN

COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals

HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Pharmaceuticals Totals

No. of Deals 1 1 1 2 5

Current Price 10.82 2,317.00 94.80 16.41

Quantity Traded 5,000 20 1 1,010 6,031

Value Traded 54,100.00 46,340.00 94.80 16,024.10 116,558.90

ETF Board Totals

6,031

116,558.90

ETP Activity Totals

6,031

116,558.90

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, april 7, 2015

While seeking votes, politicians usually dip hands into their bags of tricks to befriend the electorate. Sometime they do the unexpected, sometime the unthinkable, to sell themselves, reports ABIODUN BELLO

Features Politicians: Identifying with the masses

ike him or hate him, no one, especially politicians, can ignore the Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose. Any politician who ignores him does that at his own peril. His impact since he strolled to political limelight in 2003 has been phenomenal, although many people may not agree. But the man, who returned to office in 2014, has brought into governance charm and colour. In his first stay in office, the governor, generally regarded as the enfant terrible of Nigerian politics, was reputed to done many things hitherto believed not to be in tune with leadership. Fayose has been spotted in the midst of the people on the street. For instance, he was said to have stopped to buy roasted corn from an old woman, which he ate from relish. He was said to have later given the woman wads of new naira notes. The governor was also recently spotted at a local restaurant eating a staple food, amala. These acts and many more were said to have endeared the governor to many people, especially the downtrodden. This, according to a lot of people, explained why Fayose won his re-election bid, particularly against the odds staked against him. But to win elections, many politicians have tried to copy Fayose’s style, especially when it is contrary to their nature. For instance Chief Iyiola Omi-

ABIODUN BELLO FEATURES Editor

abiodun. bello@newtelegraphonline.com

President Jonathan dancing Orezi’s shoki

Amaechi plaiting a woman’s hair

soye, a former deputy governor of Osun State, tried this unsuccessfully in 2014. Omisore, a senator, who contested the Osun State governorship election, was pictured while buying roasted corn by the roadside. He also rode on commercial motorcycle, popularly called Okada, during the electioneering. But this failed to draw people’s opinion or votes when the chips were down. But while Omisore failed at the poll, Governor Rauf Aregbesola won on the crest of his closeness to the masses. Aregbesola, described as a grassroots’ man, was said to be washing football matches at Viewing Centres. He is reputed to always frequent Viewing Centres at Oke-Fia to watch EPL and Champion League matches. “I cannot speak about others, but Governor Aregbesola is not copying anybody. That is his true nature. He has always been

Mrs. Aishat Buhari frying ‘Akara’

Omisore eating roasted corn

Aregbesola has been doing that even before he ventured into politics

Ambode buying roasted plantain

closed to his people, the common people. “Aregbesola has been doing that even before he ventured into politics. He is even a fan of one of the Fuji musicians,” said an Osun State-based politician, who craved anonymity. It is yet to be understood whether this also had any positive impact on the election of General Muhammadu Buhari on March 28. But during the campaign, the picture of his wife, Aishat, frying akara (baked beans) went viral on the social media. She was said to have won the hearts many people when she helped a roadside Abuja seller to fry akara. The simple gesture was said to have endeared her to many. Also during the electioneering, the Director of the All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Organisation (APCPCO), Governor Rotimi Amaechi,

surprised a lot of people when he helped a lady to plait her hair. Amaechi, the Rivers State governor, spotted two ladies plaiting hair during a campaign tour and decided to show his dexterity at hair weaving. President Goodluck Jonathan is not also left out of the enthusiasm to endear himself to the electorate. The President was said to have danced “Shoki” (a trending dance step among the youth) while meeting with youth at a popular hotel on Lagos Island in the rundown to the March 28 poll. Also, the APC gubernatorial candidate in Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, bought and ate boli (roasted plantain) during a campaign tour. On the fateful day, Ambode and his campaign crew had stormed Apapa area of the state when he decided to go for boli. Will this also work for Ambode? Only the Lagos electorate could answer that on April 11.

FEATURES

etrified, two kids, aged four and one, running from death, hid under the bed. In their innocent minds, that bed would keep death at bay when the house went up in flames. But how wrong they were! Unfortunately, their mother, who reportedly unknowingly started the fire when she tried to on a gas cooker, rushed out of the building, forgetting her children. Apart from destroying the entire building located at 11 Fabiyi Street, Igbo Efon on Lekki-Ajah Expressway in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State on Sunday March 29, the ensuing inferno consumed property and household items said to be running into millions of naira. Unfortunately also, the kids, a boy and a girl, lost their lives before help could reach them. The owner of the house, Hon. Muyideen Jinadu, also died in the inferno. Jinadu, it was said, was trying to rescue the children from the raging fire. A resident said: “Honourable died while trying to save his tenants and his house from fire.” The mother and her children were said to have gone to visit a relative who had just delivered a baby. The kids’ mother went to the kitchen to on the gas cooker but it exploded. The bodies of the kids were later recovered from under the bed where they took cover when the fire started. But their mother has not been seen since then. Earlier on Friday March 27 a twoyear-old girl, Rasheedat Kazeem, lost her life to fire after fuel kept in a residential area exploded. The incident occurred at Ibafo in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State. The residents woke to hear the shouts of fire. But the gallons of fuel belonged to the landlady of the building, who disappeared after the inferno started. People scampered to safety, abandoning their property. Angry residents said the explosion, which occurred at Ajaga area, was caused by the petrol kept in the building for sale by the landlady. Rasheedat was sleeping in her parents’ apartment when the explosion occurred. The fuel seller had been warned several times on the dangers of selling fuel in a residential area, but she refused to heed the warnings. One of the residents said: “We call on Governor Ibikunle Amosun to come to our rescue as oil bunkers have taken over the whole of Ibafo, while the police are not helping the situation.” One of the residents of the building, Mr Muhammedu Isa, is now squatting in an uncompleted building with his wife and kids. He said: “My family and I were left with nothing. Everything we had laboured for was gutted by fire. “My family and I were inside our apartment sleeping when we suddenly heard the shout of fire. We saw that smoke had engulfed the whole house. We all ran out. When the fire finally settled, all what we had laboured for was gone. “The most annoying aspect of the incident was the little girl that was sleeping inside the house. She died in the fire.” Another affected resident, Mr Mohammed Aliu, said that he had earlier wanted to vacate the building, but was unable to because of financial difficulties. He said: “When the incident occurred, we were all left with nothing. We are now living on the generosity of Good Samaritans. It was the Baale of

TUESDAY, april 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Kids at the mercy of fire Children are the future of any nation. But the future is dying today. Many children are being killed needlessly because of the negligence of adults, writes ABIODUN BELLO

The building where a boy and his sister died

Kazeem

The late Jinadu

our community that assisted us with this uncompleted building. He saw that we had nowhere to go or sleep.” The Baale, Chief Balogun Folorunso, blamed the disaster on the stubbornness of the landlady. He said: “Before this incident, I had sent warnings to this woman over the sales of fuel in area where people reside. But whenever we tell her this, she would start quarrelling with us. But when it happened, she absconded.” Another unfortunate twist to the story is that the mother of the twoyear-old Rasheedat has reportedly gone ‘mad’. The woman, Mrs Ajoke Kazeem, reportedly started to display signs of insanity when she heard the news of her daughter’s death. It was learnt that the 32-years-old woman could not absorb the shock of losing her daughter. The father of the deceased, Mr Yekini Kazeem, said: “My daughter was inside the room sleeping waiting for someone who will come to pick her to school when the ugly incident occurred. All my belongings in the house, money and other vital documents were

not spared in the inferno. “My wife always leaves very early in the morning to her office on the Lagos Island. She would bathe for the little Rasheedat and place her on the bed to sleep. When her teacher is going to school in the morning, she would come to our house and take her to school. “On the fateful day, my wife and I had left home very early to our different destinations. I was in my office when I received a phone call from our neighbour about the fire incident. I asked the person about my daughter but he quickly put off his phone. “When my wife came in the evening, she saw people gathered in the neighbourhood to discuss the incident. That was how she rushed home only for her to be told by some elders in the community that her daughter had died in the fire. “Since that day my wife has been behaving strangely. She is still at the hospital where we are taking care of her. What pains me most about the death of my daughter was that it took my wife and I seven good years before we had the baby. “But as a Muslim, I have resigned to

fate, because there is nothing I can do that will bring her to life.” Kazeem, however, appealed to wellmeaning Nigerians and government to come to the aid of his family. “The little savings left in my account has been spent on my wife who is in the hospital,” he added. Also during that weekend, two siblings, one of them a polytechnic student, lost their lives to fuel explosion at Agegunle area of Lagos State. Their mother, who was affected in the explosion, was rushed to the hospital. The residents said that the woman’s husband immediately suffered stroke when he got the news about his wife and two children. According to some of the residents, the mother fondly called Mama Kehinde, used to sell fuel in jerry-cans in a shanty were they live at Olowojuenjeje Street. But on the day of the incident, a lady was cooking close to where the woman sells fuel. The heat from the stove caused the fire. Flames engulfed Mama Kehinde, her two children as well as the woman cooking. The fire gutted the shanty and burnt the two children to death. One of the children, identified as Kehinde, was a polytechnic undergraduate. A resident, Juliana Mmaduako, explained that Mama Kehinde was well known in the area for buying fuel in gallons, which she would later resell. He said: “Mama Kehinde’s shanty was gutted by the fire and it killed her two children. The fire affected Mama Kehinde. She was rushed to the hospital. “The father of the children suffered stroke when he heard of the accident. I wept like other people when we saw what happened. The woman who was cooking was also rushed to the hospital.” From all the instances, it is clear that children, expected to be protected by the adults, are the victims of adults’ negligence and atrocities.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

News 47

SOUTH-EAST

APC alleges rigging plot in Ebonyi, tasks security agents

APC warns INEC, security agencies against compromise

Uchenna Inya

Igbeaku Orji

Abakaliki

Umuahia

head of Saturday’s governorship and House of Assembly elections across the country, the Ebonyi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday alleged plan by the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to rig the polls. Speaking to newsmen in Abakaliki, Chairman of the party, Hon. Ben Nwaobasi, said the party has received reports that result sheets of the April 11 elections have been sold to the PDP by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He called on security agents to investigate the matter, adding that it was capable of causing crisis during and after the elections. “We can’t allow a repeat of the National Assembly elections in the state and we are calling on the security agents to brace up for the challenges ahead. We have heard that people have bought the result sheets for next elections and we are watching them. We have alerted the whole world on this,” he said.

he All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State yesterday warned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Abia State Commissioner of Police, the Director, Department of State Security (DSS) and the

Umuahia

chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State and a member of its Board of Trustees (BoT), Chief Tony Ukasanya, has urged the electorate to vote massively for the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Dr. Alex Otti, in the April 11 poll. He made the request at a reception organised in

honour of Otti by an Abuja-based business woman, Mrs. Josephine Nwaeze, at Ubakala, Umuahia South Local Government area of the state. Ukasanya described Otti as the only governorship candidate that has the capacity to transform the state, saying that having excelled in the banking industry; the former Diamond Bank’s chief executive has the requisite experience, exposure and network to attract local and international investors to the state.

Group congratulates Buhari, wants PDP out in guber poll Peter Osondu

pressure group, Abia Change Agents (ACA) yesterday congratulated President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, for emerging the winner of the March 28 presidential election after three previous attempts. The group also warned Abia people to guide against voting for PDP in

sonnel compromised their commitment to providing a level playing field for all candidates. The APC said the party would not accept a repeat of that in the governorship and House of Assembly elections this Saturday. This was even as the party called for the cancellation of the National Assembly results in the state, because, according to it, the results did not reflect the true wishes of the people.

The party also called on the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state to release the authentic results of the election. The Chairman of the party, Hon. Donatus Nwankpa, made the party’s position known yesterday at a stakeholders’ meeting in Umuahia, convened to strategise on the April 11 election. “The APC condemns the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections in Abia State, the

L-R: Anambra State former Governor, Chief Chris Ngige; Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha and Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere, during their arrival from Abuja…recently

PDP chieftain rallies support for APGA candidate Igbeaku Orji

military authorities in the state against compromising the April 11 governorship and House of Assembly elections in the state. To ensure that transparency is upheld in the elections, the party drew the attention of INEC and the security agencies to the allegation of widespread manipulation in the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections in which their per-

Saturday’s governorship election so that the state would not be in opposition when a new government is formed on May 29. In an interview in Aba, the chairman of the group, Comrade Nnamdi Chidiebere, in congratulating Buhari, said the group was happy at the emergence of the former military Head of State as the winner of the polls.

conspiracy of INEC and the security agencies, the connivance of the ad-hoc staff, who are members of PDP,” Nwankpa said. He also condemned the action of the local government chairmen, who turned the local government headquarters into collation centres. Nwankpa also requested the reshuffling and overhaul of the personnel for the April 11 polls, including the presiding officers and assistant presiding officers. He also insisted that the card reading machines be used for the next election in order to ensure its integrity. He said the APC would resist acts of intimidation and brutalisation even while calling on the people to join in ensuring that the election is acceptable. The chairman said: “The proper conduct of the next election is the responsibility of everyone, not the exclusive responsibility of the APC; we will not allow another manipulation.” He added that the party was already discussing with other parties for possible alliance. He called on Ndigbo to vote APC candidates and to support the national government of the APC so as not to be in opposition with the attendant loss of political relevance.

Group wants Abia NASS election probed

non profit organization, Abia Revival Group, has described the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections in Abia State as a failure due to wide spread rigging that characterised the poll. Addressing the media in Umuahia at the weekend, spokesman for the group, Barrister Ike Ajah explained that the result that is being circulated in the media was fake as

the INEC appointed returning officer for Abia North, Professor Ihekweaba Chukwugoziem had distanced himself from the purported result owing to irregularities and inconsistencies on the result sheet. According to Ajah, voters came out en masse happily to cast their votes for their preferred candidates. Afterwards, things took a new dimension at the INEC designated col-

lation centre in Arochukwu Local Government as INEC officials were bribed by PDP agents to doctor figures in favour of their candidate, Chief Mao Ohuabunwa. The activist added: “Any attempt to change the will of the people will not only set the region back in terms of good governance but will also ignite violence in the region”. Ajah noted that the

Elechi blamed for Ebonyi crisis Charles Onyekwere Abakaliki

member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Sylvester Ogbaga, yesterday blamed Governor Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State for the crisis in the state and for allegedly mismanaging SURE-P funds, which he alleged was used in sponsoring some people for the elections. He also accused the governor of deceiving the people of the state

over power shift to Ebonyi South senatorial district, which he earlier championed. The lawmaker, who is returning to the House of Representatives for the third term to represent Abakaliki-Izzi Federal Constituency, made this known while briefing journalists in Abakaliki. He expressed dismay that the governor had deceived the people by telling them that he is in PDP, whereas he has been using state funds to allegedly sponsor the Labour Party.

He said: “The party could not discipline him, because of certain respect the party has for his age and for allowing peace to reign in the state. Some time ago, there was a move for impeachment, but the leaders of the party said no. It is not that people did not know what to do, but he has less than two months to leave office. “The popularity of Elechi is what we should think about, if he could not deliver his son in the senatorial election, then he has a diminishing return

essence of democracy is to allow the people’s vote count in the electoral process. The group’s spokesman, while urging the INEC boss, Professor Attihiru Jega to look into the allegation of manipulation of figures by INEC officials, noted that justice delayed is Justice denied, adding that INEC must uphold the tenets of transparency and openness in any election. prospect and I believe it is wholly against him. He has refused to give way for peace to reign. From the PDP congresses till now, he has continually deceived the people of the state.” Now there is a rumour that the National Assembly election is cancelled, why can’t we tell the people the truth. “The purported merger of Labour Party (LP), the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) openly cannot change anything and whatever he does; it is still Elechi we know.”

News

SOUTH-SOUTH

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ogboru, Emerhor, may merge against Okowa in Delta Dominic Adewole ASABA

he All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Labour Party in Delta State may have concluded plans to forge a common front before the April 11 governorship race against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa. Speculation was rife

yesterday across the state that the APC governorship flag-bearer, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor and his LP counterpart, Chief Great Ogboru, have started plotting how to defeat the PDP candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa. But it has not been ascertained which political party, out of the two, will be used to hatch the proposed merger. New Telegraph, however, learnt in Asaba yesterday that APC has sent

emissaries to Ogboru to consider the interest of the President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari, in the negotiation. It was further gathered that Emerhor was interested in the intended dialogue with Ogboru, because his party has been made popular by the outcome of the March 28 election in which his party emerged victorius. A top APC chieftain, who did not want his name in print, yesterday

said the “APC is seriously disposed to any negotiation that will lead to the liberation of Delta State from16 years of PDP barrenness.” The source said prior to Buhari’s victory, the party had reached out to major contenders in the race, including Ogboru, and other stakeholders in the politics of the state, on the need to key into the wind of change blown across the country. “Delta State should not

be found wanting among the comity of states that will benefit immensely from the government of General Muhammadu Buhari. Our selling point since the APC won the presidential election has been; “Do we want Delta State to be listed among the opposition states from May 29, this year? “Ogboru and Emerhor are brothers. The current crisis over the governorship seat between them was the handiwork

of PDP agents. We have already spread out our tentacles, PDP may get another shocker before the day of the election in Delta State,” the source said. But, the Director of Media and Publicity, PDP Campaign Organisation in the state, Dr. Festus Okubor, said his party is battle ready for the two of them, maintaining that “No amount of gang up will stop Okowa from defeating them on Saturday.”

APC leaders, palace chiefs, vow to shame PDP on April 11 Cajetan Mmuta

BENIN

takeholders drawn from the seven local government councils in Edo south senatorial district including elders and top hierarchy of palace chiefs of the ancient Benin yesterday in one voice expressed their strong resolve to vote massively for all the candidates of the All Progressives Congress under President elect, Gen Muhammadu Buhari. The people of the senatorial zone vowed that never again would they be taken aback in the scheme of things in the political equation of the country. They insisted that the interest of the people of the area would better be served by the APC-led government of Gen. Buhari and its national leadership under Chief John Odigie Oyegun and state governor Adams Oshiomhole respectively. At a well-attended gathering preceded by a press conference, speakers and various support groups as well as the campaign organisation of former minister of works for state; Engr. Chris Ogiemnyonyi, condemned the plot by forces

within the camp of one of the opposition parties to arm twist voters with one thousand naira to cast their votes against the APC in favour of the PDP during the Presidential and National Assembly polls held on March 28. Former Minister of state for Works, Engr. Chris Ogiemwonyi in his speech urged voters in the state to jettison a vote for the PDP in favour of the APC so that the ruling party in the state would have majority in the state house of assembly in order to avert further chaos and anarchy as was witnessed in the past few months in the state. Ogiemwonyi who spoke on the topic: “Edo state in alignment with Federal Government”, said: “What Edo people want is development; more modern schools, increased economic stability for job creation in an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.” He said that the emergence of Gen. Buhari as President-elect to defeat a sitting government speaks volumes for the country and therefore Edo people “must say no to money politics and people you will not see till after four years.”

Delta people urged to vote for Okowa, PDP candidates Gabriel Choba Ughelli

espite the change of baton at the Presidency going by the outcome of the March 28 presidential election, the people of Delta State were yesterday charged to cast their votes for Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Saturday’s governorship election. A PDP chieftain in the state, Patrick Egone, who spoke with newsmen in Ughelli, called on Delta people to vote for all the PDP House of Assembly

candidates in the election. Egone said: “Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would emerge victorious on Saturday, because he is more experienced to govern Delta State and consolidate on the achievements of the outgoing administration.” According to him, the Okowa’s administration shall vigorously provide employment for our youths, enhance the quality of education and provide health facilities and infrastructure, including goods, potable water for all.

L-R: Major General Charles Arhiavbere (rtd); Hon Richard Lamai and Governor Adams Oshiomhole, at the defection of Arhiavbere, the governorship candidate of the PDP in the 2012 election in Edo State, and Lamai to the APC …at the weekend.

INEC to investigate disappearance of result sheets Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

he Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Edo State, Mr. Mike Igini, yesterday commenced investigation into alleged irregularities and absence of result sheets in some parts of the state during the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections in the state. Igini disclosed this at a press briefing on the commission’s preparedness ahead of the April

11 governorship and state House of Assembly elections held in Benin City, the state capital. This was as the REC also yesterday held a meeting with all the electoral officers and other management staff of the commission ahead of the elections. He said the meeting was aimed at reviewing the outcome of the March 28 elections and to strategise for Saturday’s state House of Assembly and governorship elections. The REC, however, expressed concern over reported hitches that

trailed the last elections in parts of the state. Igini said the commission has taken delivery of necessary sensitive and none-sensitive materials preparatory for Saturday’s elections. He said anyone found culpable of committing electoral offence would be made to face the full wrath of the law. According to him, “I am compiling areas where results sheets were not accompanied with other materials.” He further warned against breach of procedures in the April 11

elections, stressing that “the outcome of the election must be decided by the people. “The will of the people must not be compromised, because this office will occupy is under public trust,” he said. He reminded electoral officers of the commission that “When I distributed sensitive and none-sensitive materials, I gave everything to all of you. To say that there were no result sheets is a clear violation of our procedures and there must be consequences today,” Igini said.

Anamdu: Esuene is Akwa Ibom’s best option for governor Tony Anichebe Uyo

head of the 2015 governorship election coming up this weekend, the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the Labour Party, Prof. Ekeng Anamdu, has said that the party’s governorship candidate, Senator Helene Esuene, remains the best person that is capable of

taking the state to the promised land. Speaking yesterday in an interview with newsmen in Uyo, Anamdu said the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have failed the people of the state. He said the PDP that has been in power for 16 years and members of the APC, who had been part of the ruling party;

do not have anything new for Akwa Ibom people other than the continued mismanagement of state resources. The former university don said the PDP right from the time of the former governor, Obong Victor Attah, lost focus and derailed from the dreams of the founding fathers of the state while the citizenry continued to wallow in abject poverty.

The Labour Party chieftain noted that the continued stay in power for the PDP and the APC would mean the continued impoverishment of the citizenry. Anamdu regretted that players in the game of politics have made the game lose its values and only need people of upright and strong character in the person of Esuene to right the wrongs.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

CHALLENGE Party tasks Niger governor on the stalling of market project Dan Atori MINNA

News 49

NORTH

APC: Aliyu must account for N1.8bn market construction fund

l Allegation is spurious, says CPS

he All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State yesterday challenged Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu’s administration to account for the N1.8 billion loan that was accessed to build the Madalla ultra-modern market. The party in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Jonathan Vatsa, yesterday in Minna, said the people of Niger State will want to know what is stopping the project even though the said fund has been accessed. According to the party, “We are worried about the lives of the market men and women at the Madalla Market, who are exposed to danger every market day, because the government remained insensitive to their plight. “Despite collecting N1.8 billion loan to build the market, the government of Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, in Niger State has refused to understand the danger of

the market still being operated along the AbujaKaduna Highway.” The party also expressed disappointment at the attitude of the administration, saying despite collecting such huge amount for relocating the market; nothing was being done to change

PDP chieftain, others defect to APC in Kebbi

Jigawa Deputy Governor expelled from PDP

Abubakari Abdul BIRNIN KEBBI

ollowing the declaration of General Muhammadu Buhari as the winner of the March 28 presidential election, the immediate past Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kebbi State, Alhaji Mansir Shehu Mansa and some other stakeholders have defected to the All Progressives Party (APC). Reports from the state said two other aggrieved governorship aspirants, Alhaji Zubairu Abdullahi Turaki and Alhaji Hussaini Adamu, who also defected to the APC, expressed lack of confidence in the system and were also not happy about the injustices meted to them. Other prominent politicians who dumped the PDP include Hon Bello Kaoje, who lost the Suru/ Bagudu federal constituency election to an APC candidate in the last election; Alhaji Abbas Jega, Alhaji Danjuma Sabi Kamba and others.

the situation. Vatsa said: “Governor Aliyu must account for the N1.8 billion meant for the market, because nothing has happened since the loan was accessed. Reacting to the issue yesterday, the Chief Press Secretary to Gov-

ernor Aliyu, Mr. Israel Ebije, said the state government has since relocated the market, adding that the new Madalla Market is just opposite the old location. He accused the APC of unproved attack on the person of the governor to score cheap political

points, adding that the N1.8 billion allegedly collected for relocation only exists in the pessimistic mind of the APC. “There was a consortium that indicated interest in constructing the Madalla new market, which was relocated across the road. The stake of the Niger State government was the land which was provided with

a Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O). The state government was also to help in supervising the project. “The APC should provide papers where Niger State government under the Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu administration collected N1.8 billion for the market. It is indeed worrisome for a political party to engage itself in cheap blackmail to achieve electoral value,” Ebije said.

More PDP leaders join APC in Kwara Biodun Oyeleye ILORIN

M L-R: Reverend-in-Charge, Church of Christ in All Nations (COCIN), Kagadama, Rev. Zakka Bayero; North-East Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Shuaibu Byal and Chairman, Bauchi Local Government, Rev. John Madaki, at the Easter Monday service at Kagadama, Yelwan, Bauchi…yesterday. PHOTO-NAN

Dahiru Suleiman DUTSE

igawa State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ahmad Mahmud Gumel, was yesterday expelled from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. Making this known yesterday, the Chairman of the PDP in the state, Alhaji Ibrahim Dogo Kafinta, said the Deputy Gover-

nor’s exit from the party was not unconnected with his alleged anti-party posture during the recently concluded Presidential and National Assembly elections in the state. He said: “Our resolve in expelling the Jigawa State Deputy Governor from our midst was informed by the anti-party activities exhibited by him during the just concluded presidential election,” said Kafinta.

PDP stakeholders in the state had earlier accused the deputy governor of involvement in such anti-party activities, especially in wooing communities in his polling unit (Kalanga Ward) to cast their votes for the All Progressives Congress (APC) against the PDP. But reports had it that even before taking this decision, it was alleged that Gumel was preparing the

ground for his defection to the APC. Sources also said that the deputy governor has confirmed his expulsion from the PDP. The source also added that the deputy governor has accepted his expulsion in good faith saying; “that the PDP is a party and whosoever wishes to join the party is free and is also at liberty to leave when he deems fit, no one should be forced to leave.”

Suswam: I did not collapse after loosing Senate election Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

overnor Gabriel Suswam of Benue State yesterday dispelled the rumour milling round that he collapsed at the Government House after losing his bid to transmute to the Senate. The governor lost the Benue North East senatorial election to the incumbent senator Barnabas Gemade of the All Progressive Congress, scoring 118,603 while Gemade polled 140,714 of the total

votes cast. Disclosing this while speaking at this year’s Easter concert organised by his wife’s office for Benue youths, held at the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida Square in Makurdi, Suswam described the rumour as untrue, noting that he contested and won different elections, four times in the state. “I have won election four times and if there is any anomaly, I should be thanking God. No election will make me lose my composure. I have never been to the hospital

on the account of losing any election, and I urge you people to pray that I should not be in the hospital”, said Suswam. He stressed the need for youth in the state to imbibe the spirit of peaceful co-existence, especially as the last lap of this year’s general elections comes up at the weekend. Governor Suswam warned the youths against indulging in any acts inimical to the conduct of the forthcoming polls, but to be peaceful before, during and after the elections, emphasizing that anyone

caught fomenting trouble will not be spared. While urging other politicians to tow the line of President Goodluck Jonathan who conceded defeat to the President-elect, General Mohammadu Buhari to allow peace to prevail in the country, Suswam appealed to the people of the state to come out and vote for the People’s Democratic Party’s candidate, Mr. Terhemen Tarzoor’s whom he described as a young and energetic young man who is capable of propelling the state to the next level of development.

ore leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara state defected yesterday to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing their voyage in the former party as a disaster. Few days to the presidential election, a prominent leader in the PDP, Senator Gbemisola Saraki had directed her followers to vote for the APC. The PDP Women Leader in the state, Hajia Nimota Ibrahim had also resigned her position to join the APC just before the election. Among the latest list of defectors is Reverend Bunmi Olusona, a close associate of Mr. Dele Belgore, the state’s coordinator of the Jonathan Campaign Organisation. Others include Engineer Adebayo Ajimoti, Alhaji Gobir Mohammed, Alhaji Dele Sarkinwa, Dr. Mohammed Potun, Funso Agaka, Alhaji Nasiru Ubandawaki, Engineer Yunus Abdullahi and Mr. Dada Abiodun. In a letter addressed to the state’s chairman of the APC, Alhaji Ishola Balogun-Fulani, the former PDP leaders traced their decision to defect to a recent meeting they held with the APC leader in the state, Dr. Bukola Saraki and their realisation that the PDP is peopled by those who do not have the interest of the state at heart. A copy of the letter, dated April 6, 2015 was seen yesterday by our reporter. They stated that their decision to join the PDP and abandoned the progressive platform was as a result of “ignorance”, adding that what they found in the PDP was best described as belonging to a “generation of vipers”.

WORLD | News

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Yemen clashes kill more than 100

ierce clashes raged yesterday between rebels and loyalists in southern Yemen, leaving more than 100 dead in 24 hours, as the Red Cross faced delays to urgently needed aid deliveries. Relief workers have warned of a dire situation in the impoverished Arabian Peninsula state, where a Saudi-led coalition is waging an air war on the Iran-backed Huthi Shiite rebels. Most of

the 114 deaths in the past 24 hours occurred in fighting between rebels and loyalists of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi in the main southern city of Aden. Seventeen civilians were among 53 people killed in Aden where fighting continued as rebels tried to seize a port in the city, which sits on an extinct volcano jutting out into the sea. At least 19 Huthis and 15 pro-Hadi militiamen were

killed overnight in the town of Daleh, north of Aden, officials said. Seven more people were killed in the southern province of Abyan, where pro-Hadi fighters have laid siege to the base of a renegade army brigade loyal to ex-president Ali Abdullah Saleh, who is accused of backing the Huthis. In nearby Lahj, coalition air strikes hit the strategic Al-Anad airbase and a nearby military camp, killing 10 rebels and forcing many oth-

ers to flee, an army source and witnesses said. In Shabwa province, eight rebels were killed in an air raid as two others died in clashes with tribes, sources said. Hadi, considered by the UN to be Yemen's legitimate leader, took refuge in Aden in February after the Huthis, who hail from the mountainous north, seized power in Sanaa. Hadi fled to Saudi Arabia last month as rebels advanced on his southern stronghold, prompting the military campaign by the Saudi-led coalition, now in its 12th day. Yemen, strategically located near key shipping routes and bordering oil-rich Saudi Arabia, is sinking deeper into a multi-sided civil conflict. The fighting has drawn in an array of armed groups in-

cluding the Huthis, pro-Hadi militia, army units loyal to Saleh, southern separatists, Sunni tribes and Al-Qaeda militants. The Red Cross has appealed for an immediate truce to facilitate aid deliveries and allow people to seek water, food and medical assistance. It has been trying to fly emergency supplies into Sanaa but the plane is still stuck on the tarmac. "We have a cargo plane with medical supplies which is ready to go," said Sitara Jabeen, a spokeswoman for the International Committee of the Red Cross. "We have the permission for this plane but we have logistical problems for the landing. There are less and less planes landing in Yemen. We are trying to solve the logistic problems," she told AFP.

Kenya destroys two al Shabaab camps in Somalia

Supporters of the Shiite Huthi militia brandishing their weapons in the Yemeni capital Sanaa during a demonstration against Saudi-led coalition's Operation Decisive Storm against the Huthi rebels.

Malawi orders police to shoot attackers of albinos

alawi has ordered police to shoot "dangerous criminals" who attack albinos in order to sell their body parts for witchcraft. "Shoot every criminal who is violent when caught red-handed abducting people with albinism," the country's police chief Lexen Kachama told officers at the weekend, according to local media. Six albinos have been killed in the poor southern African nation since December, according to the Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi. Kachama told officers in Machinga district in the south of the country, where most of the attacks have happened, that we cannot just

watch while our friends with albinism are being killed like animals every day." He said he does not want to "hear of a police officer chasing dangerous criminals especially those abducting albinos carrying teargas or any other soft weapon. "That is why I am ordering the police to use weapons in proportion to the gravity of the offence. We need to be secure from criminals," he added. Kachama, appointed last month by President Peter Mutharika, ordered his ill-equipped force of 12,000 not to be afraid to use "live ammunition" after criminals shot a police officer in the commercial capital Blantyre last week. "We will not put down or hold back our weapons until

Malawians are living and doing their business freely," he said. He said police were empowered by law "to use any weapon when discharging our duties." Albinos have been the victim of a surge of attacks across Africa in recent months, with the UN warning the situation was particularly acute in Tanzania, Burundi and Malawi. It said the spike in violence against them in Tanzania may be linked to general and presidential elections in October 2015, as political campaigners attempt to win over influential sorcerers. The UN Human Rights Council last month decided to appoint an expert to investigate abuses suffered by albinos across east Africa.

Syria crisis: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;300 Kurds kidnapped' by Islamist rebels

n Islamist rebel group has kidnapped some 300 Kurdish men in northwest Syria. Reports say the men were seized from buses travelling from the town of Afrin to the city of Aleppo. It is still not clear which rebel group is responsible but officials from the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD) have blamed Jaysh al-Islam (Army of Islam). The kidnappers have demanded the release of rebel members held by Kurds. Reports said the Kurdish hostages were being held in a

town in Idlib province and had been allowed to keep their mobile phones. One of the men had told the PYD that they would not be harmed and would be freed if three rebels, detained by the Kurds in Afrin, were released. The men had been taken from a convoy of buses forced to stop at a checkpoint on the way to Aleppo. A group of women and children were said to have been allowed to go free. The PYD implicated the Jaysh al-Islam (Army of Islam) in the kidnapping but it is only one of a number of Islamic rebel factions operating

in the area. The al-Nusra Front is active in the region. It helped capture the city of Idlib from government forces at the end of March. Idlib is only the second provincial centre to fall into rebel hands, after Raqqa was seized by Islamic State (IS). Syria's bloody conflict, which has entered its fifth year, has claimed the lives of more than 200,000 Syrians. The battle between forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad, rebels opposed to his rule and jihadist militants from IS has driven more than 11 million people from their homes.

he Kenyan air force has destroyed two al Shabaab camps in Somalia, it said yesterday, in the first major military response since the Islamist group massacred students at a Kenyan university last week. Al Shabaab denied the camps were hit, saying the air force bombs fell on farmland. Gunmen from the al Qaeda-aligned group killed 148 people on Thursday when they stormed the Garissa University College campus, some 200 km (120 miles) from the Somali border. Jets pounded the camps in the Gedo region on the other side of the frontier on Sunday, Kenya Defence Forces spokesman David Obonyo said. The mission was part of efforts to stop fighters from those camps carrying out cross-border raids into Kenya. "Our aerial images show that the camps

were completely destroyed," he said, though cloud cover made it difficult to estimate the death toll. Al Shabaab has killed more than 400 people on Kenyan soil in the last two years, including 67 during a siege at Nairobi's Westgate mall in 2013, piling political pressure on President Uhuru Kenyatta that intensified with last week's killings. Kenya has struggled to stop the flow of militants and weapons across its porous 700-km border with Somalia, and the violence has also damaged the economy by scaring away tourists and investors. Sheikh Abdiasis Abu Musab, al Shabaab's military operations spokesman, told Reuters that none of its camps were damaged in Sunday's raid, and that the fighter jets had instead struck farmland. "Kenya has not targeted any of our bases," he said.

Indonesian court rejects appeal by Australian drug smugglers

n Indonesian court yesterday rejected appeals by two Australian drug traffickers who challenged President Joko Widodo's decision to refuse them clemency and spare their lives. The complaints by Myuran Sukumaran and Andrew Chan were tried separately with the same threejudge panel at the Jakarta High Administrative Court, which agreed with a lower court that the case is out of their jurisdiction since clemency is the prerogative of the president. "The object of the dispute is not part of the jurisdiction of the Administrative court," said presiding judge Ujang Abdullah. Sukumaran, 33, and Chan, 31, are among 10 drug smugglers whose planned executions last month were adjourned due to last-minute appeals from six inmates. The others are three Nigerians and four men from Brazil, France,

Ghana and Indonesia, and a Filipino woman. Two of the foreigners, Serge Areski Atlaoui from France and Martin Anderson of Ghana, are still waiting for the outcome of their request for judicial reviews by the Supreme Court. Last month, the country's highest court rejected judicial reviews by Filipino Mary Jane Fiesta Veloso. The planned executions have soured relations between Indonesia and other countries, especially Australia and Brazil, but Widodo has vowed not to grant mercy to drug offenders because he says Indonesia is suffering a "drug emergency." Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said in a statement that the government was disappointed the petitions by Sukumaran and Chan failed and that Australia "respectfully requests the President to review their pleas for clemency."

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY APRIL 7, 2015

Sport News

International Sport

World Cup: Opodu tips Falcons for glory

Man United’s form scares City, says Van Gaal

Basketball

AfroBasket ‘draw’ okay for D’Tigers coach

Interview

Sport

Perfumes, cars, photography my passions, say Onazi

Did you know? That Arsenal and Germany star, Mesut Ozil, donated his €300,000 World Cup victory bonus to pay for the surgery of 23 children in Brazil.

Athletes beg Jonathan to fulfil promise Muhammed

President Jonathan receiving the Super Falcons in Abuja after winning the African Women Championship

Charles Ogundiya

The Sport Team Adekunle Salami Group Sport Editor

Emmanuel Tobi Assistant Editor, Sport

Ifeanyi Ibeh Sport Correspondent

Ajibade Olusesan Sport Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya Sport Correspondent

ollowing the Presidential election of March 28, which saw President Goodluck Jonathan losing to General Muhammadu Buhari (retd), some athletes promised rewards by the presidency are eager to receive the largesse. The sports men and women are particularly worried that the mood of Mr. President might not be in favour of theathletes receiving their rewards before the May 29, hand over date. Nigeria’s female national team, the Super Falcons, won the African Women Championship late last year and the team is yet to be rewarded in accordance with the presidential pledge. The junior athletes that won the African Junior Athletics

Championship in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, are also expecting the President to host them and give them words of encouragement for the feat. Only last month, the national U-20 side, the Flying Eagles were glorious in Senegal, where the team won the Africa U-20 Championship. “Now that his Excellency has lost his bid for re-election, what will happen to the promises? We worked so hard with the aim of winning the title and getting a presidential reward,” one of the Super Falcons players who craved anonymity told our correspondent. A junior athlete who was in Ethiopia also said; “I want President Jonathan to please fulfil his promise because it was during his tenure that we won the athletics event. We need him to talk to us as a father and event if it is schol-

arship, it will be fine.” Some of the athletes are banking on the reward to better their live. According to one of them, despite the difficult situation while in camp, they were still able to perform well at the championship. “We have nothing to show for winning the championship and we have been looking forward to what the president promised us. This is his glory and he should not abandon us now because of the outcome of the election,” another athlete added. A Flying Eagles official also revealed to our correspondent that the players were asking questions about the presidential reward. “The players are really expectant; they want to meet the President. Any other thing that follows would be a plus but since the final match in

Brume

Sene g al, their ment excitehas been about meeting t h e number one citizen of the country. It is a big honour,” the official said. In a reaction however, The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Gbenga Elegbeleye, told our correspondent that President Jonathan would still host the athletes. “He is a man of his words; he will still host the athletes. We are going to arrange it for them together. It is clear that athletes should be encouraged to do more,” Elegbeleye said.

Sport

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Eagles need consistency - Sredojevic Charles Ogundiya

ranes of Uganda coach, Milutin Sredojevic, has advised the technical crew of the Nigeria national team, the Super Eagles, to lay more emphasis on continuity. Speaking with our correspondent, the Serbia-born coach said rather than changing the players often, the technical crew should maintain the bulk of the team. “Consistency is important in a team, you cannot continue to tamper with your team every now and then, he said. Some players were there when the Super Eagles won the AFCON. I remembered Sunday Mba who scored the winning goal in the final game against Burkina Faso; he suddenly disappeared from the team. There was also another player, Brown Ideye, just to mention only two. When you keep changing

Super Falcons striker, Asisat Oshola, contesting against a Cameroonian during the 2014 AWC

World Cup: Opodu tips Falcons for glory

your team, it will take time for them to form understanding; there won’t be cohesion which will affect the team’s output on the field of play. If there is need to change, it should be few players, but the core of the team should be together. He however called on Nigerian fans to give the new players the opportunity to excel as a team, while also saying the world is looking forward to seeing Nigeria as a great football nation. He said: Nigeria must be patient with the team, I noticed you had a new set of players and they are yet to become a team. They have potential and with time, they will become a great team that will take Nigeria to the next level in world football. Despite the recent problem in Nigerian football, people still look up to the Super Eagles as one of the top teams in the world.

• Rues team’s poor preparations Ifeanyi Ibeh

he Super Falcons’ preparations for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup have not been encouraging but that doesn’t mean the team can’t still go all the way to the final in Canada, so says former national team coach, Sam Okpodu. The reigning African champions will slug it out in Group D alongside former two-time world champions, the United States of America; Sweden and Australia for a place in the second round at the World Cup. But unlike their World Cup group stage opponents, who have been playing tune-up matches ahead of the tournament which kicks off in June, the Super Falcons have not had such good fortune. In fact, other than practice matches against local club sides the only international game the side, handled by Edwin Okon, has been involved in was the All Africa Games qualifier against Mali in Bamako. The game, which ended in a draw, was however prosecuted mostly with players who have little or no chance

of making the final World Cup squad. As a result, Okpodu accepts the team will need to be at its best in order to stand a chance of making it out of Group D, but reckons that with the quality of personnel expected to be available to the coaching crew they should be able to give their group stage rivals a run for one of the two automatic tickets to the tournament’s round of 16. “We are going to the World Cup, but whether we are going to do well is another question,” said Okpodu. “I know our girls, in their usual manner, are going there to give their best but whether their best is going to be good enough to lift the trophy is what I don’t know. “For a number of reasons they have so far not had the best of preparations, and that is a problem that needs to be addressed right now because June is not so far away; it is just around the corner. “So the kind of games that we play between now and then will determine how far we will go. But there is a lot of potential in this team and given the right level of preparations they can go very far [at the World Cup].”

Eboigbe to watch Edo FA Cup final

ormer Nigeria defender, Sunday Eboigbe, who has been suffering from stroke, is among ex-internationals, coaches and government officials expected at the final of the 2015 Edo FA Cup, scheduled for the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, on Wednesday. Giant killers Kukuruku Dragons of Auchi and BJ Foundation of Benin will trade tackle in what promises to be an exciting final at 4pm, while Fortress Ladies battle Edo Queens earlier at 2pm in the women’s category. Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, will lead a government delegation to the venue while former national coaches Alabi Aisien, Sebastian

Brodericks, Godwin Izilein, Shaibu Amodu and retired stars like David Aigbovo and Monday Eguavoen are also expected to grace the occasion. Edo FA chairman, Frank Ilaboya, who paid Eboigbe a visit, appealed to fans across the state to join the ex-Green Eagles star in making both finals memorable. He said, “Eboigbe is excited to be back and he wants to watch the final games. We have made arrangements to take him to and from the stadium. “The FA board met on Friday to ensure a successful closing ceremony of the competition. We want the fans to come to the stadium in large numbers to witness a revival in Edo football.”

The FA board has courted several sponsors to make the event a successful one. Regional Operations Director, Airtel, Veronica Onoja, said, “As sponsors, Airtel will give the first 100 fans at the stadium 100 T-shirts while fans also have a chance of winning SIM cards at half-time.” On his part, CEO Zenith Sports, Paul Maduakor, stated “We have provided two sets of medals for the final and three awards for outstanding players and officials of the competition. We will also provide kits for ball boys.” Managing Director Ohonba Line, Godwin Ohonba, added that the company had made available buses for the final day.

Sredojevic

Pepsi Academy lights up Gidi culture festival

epsi Football Academy underlined its rising profile in beach soccer with a commanding performance in this year’s edition of Gidi Culture Festival at the weekend in Lagos. This is coming on the heels of a sterling performance last December against the Brazilian Beach Soccer team at COPA Lagos beach soccer tournament. In the first match, Pepsi Academy boys whitewashed JK team in a game

that ended 6-1 to book a ticket for the final of the 4-team competition. Pepsi Academy also defeated AGMP team in the final match to lift the trophy. According to Mr. Norden Thurston, Head of Marketing, Seven Up Bottling Company Plc, “the essence of the tournament at the Gidi Culture Festival was to excite the brand’s consumers at Easter. He expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Pepsi youngsters adding, that

the brand is committed to developing grassroots football and beach soccer in Nigeria through the Pepsi Football Academy.” Mr. Thurston was represented by the Brand Manager, Seven Up Bottling Company Plc, Mr. Segun Ogunleye. Coach Kasimawo Laloko, Director of Pepsi Football Academy, described the performance of the PFA boys as very impressive even though they played on sand, which is still very new to them.

Pepsi Football Academy team, winners of the Gidi Culture beach soccer in Victoria Island, Lagos displaying their trophy at the weekend.

International Sport

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY APRIL 7, 2015

ouis van Gaal believes the improvement in Manchester United’s form has Manchester City worried ahead of the upcoming derby match between the two sides. United welcome their rivals to Old Trafford on Sunday with both teams vying for second spot behind Premier League leaders Chelsea. Van Gaal’s United have won their last five league fixtures. And the Dutchman said confidence was sky-high in the United dressing

room as they look to build on wins against Liverpool and Tottenham. “Of course form plays a part in the spirit of our opponents and also our players,” Van Gaal said. “We have more confidence now and when they lose a point then it’s also sitting in their minds. Maybe it plays a role but that is dependent on the individual player and I don’t know the individual players of Manchester City so well. “But we have a lot of confidence and we haven’t lost so many times at home.”

Man United’s form scares City, says Van Gaal

Mourinho slams Oscar as exit rumours build

ose Mourinho laid into Chelsea midfielder Oscar following Saturday’s 2-1 victory against Stoke. The Brazilian star was dragged off at half-time after another poor performance. And the Blues boss criticised his 23-year-old at a post-match conference, saying: “I don’t think he had a bad performance, I just think he was not good enough, which is a huge difference.” The comment has fuelled transfer rumours linking Os-

car with a move away from the club. Recent reports have stated that he could be used as a makeweight in a potential deal with Juventus for Paul Pogba. Meanwhile, his west London side continues to be linked with a host of other midfielders including - Liverpool’s Jordan Henderson and Atletico Madrid’s Koke. The Stamford Bridge ace has not scored a goal in his last 12 matches and has failed to provide an assist since January 17.

Rooney’s spectacular goal against Aston Villa at the weekend

Simeone looks for Djokovic momentum equals Nadal’s A weeks at No. 1 tletico Madrid will hope to steal a march on their Liga title rivals with victory over Real Sociedad at Vicente Calderon on Tuesday. The defending champions are nine points adrift of leaders Barcelona and five behind Real Madrid, but can reduce their arrears when they host David Moyes’ side 24 hours before the top two play their respective matches. Simeone watched with delight as Atletico cruised past Cordoba on Saturday thanks to goals from Antoine Griezmann and Saul, and the Argentine is keen to maintain momentum with a third league win in succession. Atletico are looking for revenge over Sociedad after losing at Anoeta earlier in the season, with Simeone all too aware that Moyes’ men pose a big threat. “You have to be more prepared than ever because [this stage of the season] is very difficult,” he said. “We competed very well in our last game against Real Sociedad. “We had 10 men in that game [after Guilherme Siqueira was sent off in the 50th minute] and it spoke volumes about the competitive tension the coach [Moyes] has instilled in them.”

Simeone

Fenerbahce shootings: Turkish Super Lig suspended

Djokovic

n addition to winning his 5th Miami Open title Sunday, Novak Djokovic hit another milestone in the last 24 hours. Djokovic, who’s been the ATP’s No. 1 since July 7, is now tied with rival Rafael Nadal at 141 weeks on top of the rankings. With Nadal now ranked No. 5 and out of the No. 1

mix for the near future, Djokovic’s next target is John McEnroe at 170 weeks. He could reach McEnroe if he stays on top at the end of October. Roger Federer leads all players at 302. To reach Roger, Djokovic would have to hold No. 1 for another 163 weeks, or just before the French Open in 2018!!

he Turkish Super Lig has been suspended for a week following the attack on the Fenerbahce team bus which left the driver wounded. The team bus was attacked by gunmen as they returned from their 5-1 win over Rizespor on Saturday, with the driver taken to hospital with a head wound following the incident. Fenerbahce released a statement calling for the league campaign to be halted while an investigation is carried out into the attack, saying: “It is the end of football when blood is spilled. Fenerbahce’s complete priority is

for the culprits to be found and punished immediately.” And the Turkish Football Federation has now confirmed the next matchday will be postponed, along with the cup quarter-finals due to take place this week. FA Chairman Yildirim Demiroren announced on Monday: “The Super Lig clubs asked us to postpone the games for one week and we have taken this decision accordingly.” Fenerbahce were due to face Mersin Idmanyurdu on Wednesday in the Turkish Cup, with a Super Lig clash at home to Bursaspor following on April 13.

Cavani, Blanc in touchline spat

dinson Cavani was involved in a furious touchline argument with coach Laurent Blanc on Sunday after he was substituted in his side’s 3-2 Ligue 1 win over Marseille. The Uruguayan was replaced by Ezequiel Lavezzi after 59 minutes, and had a heated exchange with his boss as he walked towards the bench. It has been claimed in the French press that Cavani has a poor rapport with both his coach and his fellow forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic, with the ex-Napoli man said to be unhappy at being played on the wing in order to accomodate the Swede. Cavani has admitted his frustration at being placed out wide

by Blanc. “I do not know where this rumour of a bad relationship with Ibrahimovic comes from,” Cavani told Canal Plus. “We are footballers who play for the same club and we respect one another. One cannot be friends with everyone. “The only concern that I have ever spoken about is that I was recruited to play as a striker with Ibrahimovic and it has not always been the case. “There is a long series of games where I have not scored in Ligue 1 but that can happen. In France, people judge me as a lone striker, but I do not play in that position. “But aside from that, everyCavani celebrating with his team mate thing else is perfect here.”

Sport

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ighalo’s stunner seals Watford victory A first-half strike from captain Troy Deeney and a stunning second from Ighalo in the second period wrapped up the win for Slavisa Jokanovic’s men in one of their most important games of the campaign so far. The Nigeria international picked up the ball on the edge of the area twisted delightfully and unleashed

Emmanuel Tobi

ewly capped Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo’s outstanding second half strike sealed a 2-0 victory for Watford over their automatic promotion rivals, Middlesbrough, in the English Championship on Monday.

a magnificent left-footed shot that sailed over Boro’s keeper, Dimitrios Konstantopoulos, into the top corner. It was his 19th of the season and surely one of the best the crowd at Vicarage Road had witnessed all year. Watford will travel to face Millwall on Saturday before meeting Nottingham Forest on Wednesday, April 15th.

Christ Ambassadors, COD Ladies win Lagos FA

Melissa makes winning debut for Nigeria

Charles Ogundiya

hrist Ambassadors of Lagos on Monday became the winner of the 2015 edition of the Winners Golden Bet/Lagos FA Cup. The non league side defeated another non league side, Nath Boys 2-1 in the final game played inside the Agege Township Stadium. The two teams will represent Lagos in the national final. Speaking with New Telegraph, the captain of Christ Ambassadors, Aguda Godwin, who won the golden boot and was also named the Most Valuable Player of the competition said it was a dream come true for him.

Ighalo (right)

Ajibade Olusesan

ussian-born Melissa Ifidzhen, on Monday, opened her international career with Nigeria on a winning note as she paired Elizabeth Garos-Pam to beat Algerian duo of Saadia Belhadj and Sihem Sahli in the girls’ doubles of the 38th ITF/CAT African Closed Junior Championship taking place in Cairo, Egypt. The 16-year-old showed great composure and understanding with her Londonbased partner, Garos-Pam, to dispatch their North Af-

Lagos State FA Chairman, Seyi Akinwumi (second left), presenting the FA trophy to the winners, Christ Ambassadors

“I am grateful to God that I was able to lift the trophy this year,” Aguda said. “The journey was tough but we were able to win due to hardwork.”

In the female category, COD United led by former international Ann Chiejiene defeated FC Robo 3-1 to avenge 2014 edition’s final when they lost 3-0 to Robo.

Basketball Flakes

rican opponents 6-0, 6-3 in less than an hour in the first round tie. However, both players recorded mixed fortunes in the singles as Garos-Pam lost to Mariam Mujawimana of Burundi 7-6 (6), 6-3 in a close contest while Ifidzhen, due to her point haul on the ITF junior rankings, was drawn bye to the second round. Ifidzhen now faces a tough battle as she confronts Lee Barnard of South Africa for a place in the third round. The seventh-seeded Barnard did not drop a sweat as she was also drawn bye.

with Ifeanyi Ibeh 08054175662

AfroBasket draw ‘okay’ for D’Tigers coach

’Tigers Head Coach, Sani Ahmed, is hopeful about the national team’s chances at the 2015 AfroBasket Championship, but is quick to admit that the tournament won’t be a stroll in the park for his side. The draw for the AfroBasket Championship, taking place in Tunisia from August 19 to 30, was conducted last Saturday at the Carthage Acropolium in Tunis with D’Tigers pitched alongside 2011 champions Tunisia, Uganda and a yet to be determined wild card entrant in Group A.

The Championship serves as the qualifying tournament for the basketball event of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. But only the eventual winner of the 16-team tournament will automatically qualify for the 2016 Olympics, and Ahmed is hoping his team will qualify at the end of the championship on August 30. “It was an okay draw and I am optimistic about our chances, but it is not going to be as easy as it looks,” said Ahmed, who also manages Nigerian Premier League champions, Kano Pillars.

“The Tunisians have always been a tough nut to crack and will be motivated to win since they will be playing in front of their fans, while the Ugandans will be doing all they can to play the role of spoilers. We don’t know yet who the last team will be, so it is not going to be an easy tournament as everyone wants to play at the Olympics.” Seven countries – South Africa, Algeria, Central African Republic, Congo, Guinea, Rwanda and Senegal – have applied for the three available wild card slots to be decided by FIBA Africa at the end of April.

If the pedigree of the abovementioned countries are taken as the major criteria in the allotting of the wild cards, then Senegal and Algeria, as well as one of either South Africa or Central African Republic would be the beneficiaries. Ahmed is aware of the possibility of having one of either Algeria or Senegal in Group A, but insists his team will be ready to take on any side they come up against in Tunisia. “To be the best you have to beat the best, and this is one competition where grabbing first place is all that matters

as we don’t wish to go through to the Olympics the way we did the last time,” continued the retired Air Force officer, who was part of the historic coaching crew that qualified D’Tigers for their maiden Olympic Games in 2012. D’Tigers, after crashing out at the quarterfinal stage of the 2011 AfroBasket Championship, proceeded to take part in a qualifying tournament in Venezuela alongside other top basketball playing nations such as Greece, Lithuania and Russia and that was how they made the olympics.

Olajuwon teaches Houston Rockets rookie

Olajuwon (right) and Capela

igeria’s greatest basketball player of all-time, Hakeem Olajuwon, has been handing down some of his legendary basketball moves to Houston Rockets centre, Clint Capela, in a bid to make the NBA rookie a much better player ahead of the upcoming post-season. The Rockets are already through to the Western Conference playoffs as they bid to clinch a first NBA

title since 1995. Olajuwon, who was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame in 2008, six years after his retirement, was the cornerstone of that Rockets side that won back to back NBA titles in 1994 and 1995. And backup centre Capela, who has spent most of the ongoing season in the NBA Development League, and studying videos of Olajuwon, last weekend began receiving

lessons from the 52-year-old Atlanta ‘96 Olympic Games gold medallist. Describing his practice sessions with the former NBA star popularly known as ‘The Dream’ as “amazing”, Capela told the media: “It’s so good for me. I’m sure I’ll get better. “I saw his videos in the Finals in 1994, some rookie videos in 1984, so he was sort of like me when he just came,” added the 20-year-old Swiss-born player.

Sport 55

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY APRIL 7, 2015

Perfumes, cars, photography my passions, says Onazi Nigeria and Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has revealed to AfricanFootball.com some salient things about his life. Do you find time to watch movies at all? Yes, I watch movies. What kind of movies do you love to watch? I like comedies and I follow Nigerian movies very closely. They are my favourite. What freaks Onazi the most? I love perfumes. I like the Tom Ford range as well as Creed. I was previously stuck on Paco Robanne. I see myself as someone who likes to experiment with perfumes, so I tend to change quite often. Which of your properties do you cherish most? What I cherished most are not properties that I bought with money. My family and closest friends I cherish dearly. There are some people who make my life run smoothly, they have contributed immensely to my achievements, so I cherish them to bits. What are the cars in your garage? I currently drive a 2015 edition of BMW X4 SUV and I also like the Range Rover Sport. I tend to go with powerfully-built cars.

Onazi with the trophy

How do you dress if not on duty? I love to dress casually. Although I have learnt that people tend to address you the way you dress, so I tend to do some shirts and suits lately.

What are your hobbies? It’s interesting how I have transformed over time with respect to hobbies. I used to love playing music, which I still do. I then got hooked on Play Station. But right now, I am currently hooked on photography. I have been using the ActiveOn action camera for a while, and it has

been a big part of me lately. So, the camera actually led you into loving photography? Yes, it’s tempting - it has eight lens Glasses that give me sharp images. It has an aqua mode that makes it possible for me to snap under water without affecting the colour. It has 4x digital zoom. It’s a wonderful machine.

Young: Winning is the Manchester United way Ashley Young in this interview with FIFA.com describes the spirit at Manchester United as ‘getting better and better’ since his arrival from Aston Villa in June 2011. tour. You go away and you start to get to know the staff and players even more than you already did when you’ve been training for a few weeks before you go away. So, you start to get to know people and build that team spirit. The team bonding we’ve got here has been fantastic. All through the years I’ve been here I think it’s getting better and better, the team spirit. The trophies and titles the club has won, the honours that the club has won. It’s that winning way. It’s the Manchester United way.

Young

In June you would have been with Man United for four years. When you walked in here for the first time, what was it like? Obviously when you join the biggest club in the world it can be daunting. When I walked in here for the first time, I just wanted to get on the training pitch. Most of the players had come back and I just wanted to get out there and train. For me, when I actually signed on the dotted line, it was fantastic.

went on my first tour to America. We pulled up to the first hotel, you could see the number of fans that stood outside the hotel just waiting for us to turn up. I think at the first training session there were 40-or60,000 fans there, which is incredible. Then, you start to realise the size of the club. It’s like a big family. Everyone here welcomes you with open arms and the hard work starts as soon as you walk through the front door.

When you think about your career, playing for clubs such as Watford and Aston Villa, did you notice another step up here in terms of the scale? I first noticed it was when we

How long do you think it takes someone to settle in at Manchester United on average? For me, I settled in straight away and I think it helps with a pre-season

That mentality of winning has been constant, but there have been changes. The dressing room has changed. Obviously big characters such as Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs aren’t there anymore. How has it evolved since you’ve been here? Players come and go. That’s just the way the world of football is. It takes our players to step up and become seniors and take over that mantle and now you feedback to the younger players. I think this season, I’m the fifth-oldest now, so I’m trying to keep to being young but by now it’s only by name. But then, when you go out on the pitch there are 11 leaders. Everyone has a voice and gives their input into the team. I think that’s what helps, that everyone’s pulling in the right direction and buying into the manager’s philosophy.

Louis van Gaal has used you in a variety of positions this season so far. That obviously must be quite challenging, but has it also been stimulating for you? I think it has. Nowadays you have to be a versatile player. There have been different formations we’ve played this season and the manager has picked me to play in a few. I think if you’re clever enough to play in those different positions, you go out and give as much as you’ve got. I’ve played in a numerous positions, and especially playing as a left wing-back has been a new position for me. Come preseason, the manager said he saw me as a wingback and it was the formation we were playing with at the time. I just went and did the job. It’s a lot more defending than I would normally do but I’m clever enough to be able to go out there and know what positions to be in and when to attack. You’re playing well for United, and that’s all you can do, but would you like to play for England again? Of course! It’s an honour to represent your country. I’ve got 30 caps at present and I want to get more. It’s one of those things where I have to keep playing as well as I can for United, and if called upon again by the England manager, then I’d be delighted.

On Marble

Sanctity of Truth

World Record

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the humblest he can speak.” – Elizabeth Barrett Browning

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

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Jackie Bibby, USA, holds the record for most, live, rattlesnakes held in his mouth. In 2001, he held eight, by their tail, for 12.5 seconds.

Buhari: The pains, the gains

GUEST COLUMNIST Joe Onwukeme

ednesday, April 1, 2015 will remain a great day in our democratic history, not only because it was the first time an opposition party defeated an incumbent president in a presidential election but because it was a day Nigeria joined the privileged few African countries where the idea of competitive electoral politics is becoming gradually institutionalized. Let me use this medium to congratulate the people's general, Muhammadu "Okechukwu" Buhari on a well deserved victory. You are the change that we seek. May your reign bring the desired change. My support for the president-elect became appallingly obvious when he emerged as All Progressive Congress (APC) presidential flag bearer. In one of my articles December last year titled, General Muhammadu Buhari: "The Wind Of Change", I averred that "General Muhammadu Buhari is the Moses of our time who is confidently living out his life of grace, this explains his wild acceptance this time across the federation which has made him remain resolute in his mission and vision to stamp out corruption once he's elected president". I postulated further that, "General Buhari’s charismatic authority is a phenomenon, he is a man of untainted integrity, a strong distinct personality, with an unlimited amount of passion, he has the ability to inspire people to key into his vision. His cult personality is on the increase. It cuts across ethnic, religious and party affiliations, it is a demonstration of his extra-ordinary insight and accomplishments". I had urged Nigerians where ever they were in the yuletide season, North, West, East or South, they should drum it, sing it, shout it, write it, draw it. However they could, they should spread the good news about General Muhammadu Buhari. I give kudos to all those that shunned parochial sentiments and supported the people's General till the last day, it wasn't an easy decision to make. To the narrow minded, it was strange for someone from my region to be a die hard supporter of an assumed muslim fanatic. Many of us passed through the fire in defense of the Buhari they hardly know other than the hate documentaries and contrived propaganda some paid apologists of the out going government used to get at him. On social media platforms like facebook and twitter, I wasn't spared at all, the insults were beyond reproach and in the process of defending the people's general, tempers ran high and friendships were severed, I lost friends who did not see reasons with me why we should look beyond

Women from an Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp, waiting to vote after accreditation, during the Presidential and National Assembly elections in Maiduguri.

President Goodluck

Buhari

religion and ethnicity and vote for a change. Due to ignorance or outright refusal to see the impossibility of

such, majority christians were irreversibly paranoid of an "Islamic agenda" in Nigeria if GMB emerged president of Nigeria courtesy of repeated sermons in their various places of worship. Now GMB has won the presidential election what will majority christians do with such delusions of islamisation of Nigeria? On Monday 30th March, while many awaited the announcement of the winner of the presidential election, I was in my comfort zone celebrating the victory of the people's General on my facebook page, many that doubted me from the onset started coming to terms with reality as results from states were collated. You and I were witnesses to the celebration of Nigerians both at home and abroad, Tuesday, 31st March even when they were not yet through with collation of results and

The emergence of GMB as the president-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is a strong reminder that "failure is indeed an orphan"

before the winner was eventually announced, the victory was a through reflection of the wishes of the people, a change from a system that allows a few to live off the misery of the entire population, to a change that will herald the beginning of a new era in our democratic history. The emergence of GMB as the president-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is a strong reminder that "failure is indeed an orphan". Many that never saw anything good in the opposition APC before now are already identifying with the party and before the May 29th hand over date, there will be an exodus of politicians from other political parties to the soon to be governing/ ruling party. After the elections, the biggest shame won't be who won or lost, but the friendships or relationships that were damaged over politicians while the campaigns lasted. Same politicians we supported that made us severe our friendships may defect to the soon to be governing party and it will be business as usual. I may have had the last laugh but the truth remains that friendships lost may never be regained. It's not worth the stress. Let's drop our hatred for one another and move on, there's life after politics. To friends that have been asking me all over the social media, "the gains of supporting General Buhari now he has won?". The answer is very simple and brief, "It is not what I will gain, it is what Nigeria will gain, a great and better Nigeria for us all. Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure... than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much, because they live in a gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat. Theodore Roosevelt. •Onwukeme, (Unjoeratedjoe@gmail.com, I tweet @unjoeratedjoe) wrote in from Enugu.

Printed and Published by Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Ltd: Head Office: No. 1A, Ajumobi Street, Off ACME Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja-Lagos. Tel: +234 1-2219496, 2219498. Abuja Office: Orji Kalu House, Plot 322, by Banex Junction, Mabushi, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Advert Hotline: 01-8541248, Email: info@newtelegraphonline.com Website: www.newtelegraphonline.com ISSN 2354-4317 Editor: YEMI AJAYI.