Tuesday, january 20, 2015 binder1 by Newtelegraphonline

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Tuesday, January 20, 2015

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Vol. 1 No. 335

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Politicians, threat to free, fair polls, says Jega }14

Economy: Banks walk the rough road Ayodele Aminu and Godson Ikoro

n a bid to mitigate the effects of regulatory headwinds, which have reduced liquidity in

the banking sectors, banks have embarked on stringent measures to cut cost as part of efforts to safeguard their profitability. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has, since

last year, churned out policies that guide the way that lenders market their products and services in form of higher Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) on public sector deposit,

diminishing Commission on Turnover (COT), which would be abolished next year and the charges by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

In addition, to protect the value of the naira and guard against speculations in the foreign exchange market, the central bank first increased the CRR CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

25 days to go... Nigeria votes

2015

ria Nige

s vote

2015

}14 & 15

Jonathan: I've been fair to the North }2

lWe'll support Buhari to salvage Nigeria, says IBB lDefend your votes, Tinubu to Nigerians

Quick Read

Editorial Mobil filling station on Macarthy Street, Lagos Island Oando filling Station on Simpson Street, Lagos Islandâ&#x20AC;Śyesterday.

PHOTOS: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

Nigeria loses N1.56bn to lower oil output, prices lMarketers disregard new fuel price in Lagos, Ogun, others

Lessons from the Paris terror attacks }19 Buhari not fit to run, Fani-Kayode insists }15

Travel Advisory

Your guide to local and international flights }4

News

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Jonathan: I've been fair to the North Anule Emmanuel, Umar Danladi Ado, Onyekachi Eze and Dan Atori

resident Goodluck Jonathan yesterday took the battle for votes in next month's presidential election to the stronghold of his main challenger, Major General Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with assurances to the geopolitical zone that his administration has given the North its due. The president, accompanied by party stalwarts, told a crowd of party supporters at a rally in Sokoto, the Sokoto State capital, that the North has benefitted more than 65 per cent of developmental projects executed by his administration. While he was in Sokoto, from where he left for Kebbi State, Buhari was in Minna to seek votes during which he paid a courtesy visit to former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, who assured him of the support of retired military generals, including himself, to salvage Nigeria. Buhari, along with a national leader of APC and former Lagos State Governor, Senator Bola Tinubu, also called on Nigerians to defend their votes to prevent rigging. The president, at his campaign in Sokoto, also reiterated his unflinching commitment to the cause of North, saying that he has no reason to hate or antagonise people from the region. According to him, his administration remains committed to ensure the provision of infrastructure to ensure the development of the North. He listed various developmental projects executed in the North by his administration to include the railway project, establishment of 10 universities, Almajiri schools, Green Great Wall project and efforts to eradicate polio. He said: "I said polio must stop in the North and if I did not like the North, I will not want to stop polio. I will not support farmers from the North. I established Almajiri schools to boost the basic education system in the North. Let them (the opposition) tell us what they have done." He also said his administration had keep faith with its commitment to ensure Nigerians were better off in so many areas of human developments. He also pledged to focus on the Goronyo and Shagari dams in an effort

to demonstrate commitment to boost agriculture. Also at the occasion, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Mua'zu, said the party was committed to ensure even development of the country irrespective of any political difference. A former Sokoto State Governor and Chairman, Sokoto PDP Elders Forum, Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa, said the party was ready to take over from the APC and pledged to deliver the state to Jonathan in the general elections. Earlier, the president had visited the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, who appealed to him to immediately address the current

insurgency in the country. According to him, the issue of insurgency poses a great concern to the country and should be addressed to ensure peace and stability in the country. He also said the signing of peace pact by Jonathan and Buhari, among other presidential candidates, was not enough to guarantee non-violent polls, pointing out that it has to translate to the ordinary Nigerians who should be cautioned against the use of thugs and weapons before, during and after elections. Responding, Jonathan said the visit was to seek his blessings as a mark of respect for the Sultanate which he described as key

for the peace and stability of the country. He said his administration had been keeping faith with its commitments to ensure Nigerians were better off in so many areas of human developments. On his part, Buhari while in Minna, got assurances of support from Babangida, who said he and other Generals would support his candidacy for the presidential election to salvage Nigeria. Babangida stated that contrary to the notion created by the media that the two former leaders were fighting, they have been in good terms. "We both fought to keep the unity of the country when we were both Majors

in the Nigeria Army. “Media men have created this impression that we are fighting each other, but look at us here today, he (Buhari) knows what I mean and I know what he means. We both fought to keep Nigeria one when we were young Major then. We were well travelled,” he said. He also commended the APC for allowing Buhari to emerge as its presidential candidate, adding that “all of us will support you in this course to salvage this country.” While commending Buhari for his perseverance and persistence to offer himself for the service at the highest level, he said: “You have beaten some

of us in proving General Douglas McArthur’s theory of old soldiers never die but fade away gradually.” Buhari had earlier stated that he was in Minna to shop for votes and that former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Babangida would support his presidential bid. He said the support for APC in Niger State was unprecedented and that from what he has seen and the calibre of people who have defected from PDP to APC in the state, the APC was sure of dislodging PDP from the state. At the campaign rally, Buhari Tinubu urged the electorate to defend their votes in the February elecCONTINUED ON PAGE 5

L-R: Executive Director, Personal Banking, Access Bank Plc, Victor Etuokwu; Executive Director, United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), George Kell; Chairman, The Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Foluso Phillips; Chairman, Honeywell Group, Mr. Oba Otudeko and Head, Transparency and Anti-Corruption, UNGC, Olajobi Makinwa, at the Africa Sustainable CEO Business Roundtable sponsored by Access Bank in Lagos...yesterday.

Nigeria loses N1.56bn to lower oil output, prices Our Correspondents

he Nigeria has lost about N1.56 billion in oil revenue in one month as a result of output outage and price rout occasioned by the volatility in the price of crude oil in the international market. The nation's gross oil revenue dipped to N381.58 billion ($2.3 billion) in December, from N383.14 billion in November, according to figures from the Federal Ministry of Finance. Nigeria, Africa’s biggest crude exporter, which depends largely on crude proceeds to service over 85 per cent of its budget, has been facing down time since the last quarter of 2014 and the ministry said in a statement that the oil

price rout cost the country N1.56 billion revenue loss in one month. This came as fuel marketers yesterday stuck to the old price of petrol at N97 per litre despite the order by the Federal Government on Sunday that slashed the price by N10. In announcing the new price regime of N87 per litre, which took effect from Sunday midnight, Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, ordered the Petroleum Product Pricing Regulating Agency (PPPRA) and the Directorate of Petroleum Resources (DPR) to ensure strict adherence to the new price regime. The Ministry of Finance blamed the output outage on trunk shutdowns and pipeline van-

dalism. The statement quoted Minister of State for Finance, Alhaji Bashir Yuguda, as saying that the government has sent notices to the 36 states of the federation to cut down on spending and rely less on oil revenues. "For the past two months, we have been advising states to key into the austerity measures that we are taking at the federal level to cushion the effect of the declining oil revenue," Yuguda said. However, a day after the Federal Government ordered fuel marketers to begin selling petrol at N87 per litre, many dealers in Lagos, Ogun, Ekiti and many states of the federation were yet to adjust their pumps to reflect the new price.

Already, PPPRA has sent memos to all tank farm and depots owners notifying them of a new ex-depot price of N77 per litre. A survey by New Telegraph across filling stations in Lagos and Ogun state, showed that the product was still selling at N97 per litre. Filling stations such as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) mega stations Abule Egba, Oando, Forte Oil and Total in the area were still selling at the old price when New Telegraph visited. "No instruction has been given to us on that (new price of N87 per litre). You can see that I did not cheat you because the amount I sold for you is still the N97 per litre

displayed on the pump," a female attendant at the NNPC mega station said. Petrol marketers in Ekiti State were also yet to comply with the Federal Government's directive reducing the pump price of the product from N97 per litre to N87. Checks revealed that only the NNPC Mega Station on Iworoko Road, AdoEkiti had adjusted its metre to reflect the new price. The development led to a long queue at the station. Attendants at filling stations visited said they had not been instructed to adjust to the new price. In Edo State, many fuel dealers complied with the federal government’s directive for the reduction of the pump price to N87 per litre. CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

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Travel Advisory

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

International Flight Schedule

Local FLIGHT SCHEDULE 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 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

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

Lagos-London London-Lagos Lagos-New York

W3 101 W3 102 W3 107 (Mon, Wed & Fri) W3 108 (Tues,Thurs & Fri) W3 103 W3 104 - (Tues, Wed &Thur) - (Tues, Wed &Thur) -

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

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

12:30hrs

16:00hrs

KLM

ARIK AIRLINES

New York-Lagos Lagos-Johannesburg Johannesburg-Lagos Lagos-Douala Douala-Lagos Lagos-Accra

10:45hrs 09:35hrs 11:10hrs 13:25hrs 07:20hrs 17:00hrs -(Tue,Thur,Sat,Sun) 08:05hrs -(Mon,Wed,Fri) 13:35hrs 18:00hrs -(Daily) 17:00hrs 06:00hrs - (Wed,Fri,Sun) 08:00hrs 17:00hrs -(Wed,Fri,Sun) 08:00hrs -(Wed,Fri,Sun) 15:20hrs -(Wed,Fri,Sun) 21:00hrs -(Mon,Tue,Thur, Fri,Sat) -(Tue,Wed, 01:00hrs Fri,Sat,Sun)

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

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

BA075 BA074 BA 082 BA 083

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

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

Lebanon-Lagos Lagos-Lebanon

MEA 571 MEA 572

3:00hrs 14:00hrs

8:00hrs 19:00hrs

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

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

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

BRITISH AIRWAYS

hrs

Middle East Airlines (Two flights weekly (Tues & Friday) to Lagos) EMIRATES AIRLINES

QATAR AIRWAYS DELTA AIRLINES

UNITED AIRLINES

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

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

ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES

Departure 14:00hrs 16:30hrs 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

Arrival 15:55hrs 18:15hrs 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

Lagos to Addis Ababa Addis Ababa to Lagos Abuja to Addis Ababa Addis Ababa to Abuja Enugu to Addis Ababa Addis Ababa to Enugu Kano to Addis Ababa Addis Ababa to Kano

ET900 ET901 ET910 ET911 ET930 ET931 ET930 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

05:25+1hrs 20:20hrs

Lagos-Casablanca Casablanca-Lagos

AT738 AT 737

06:25hrs 02:15hrs

09:55hrs 6:00hrs

Lagos-London London-Lagos

VS 652 VS 651

11:00hrs 22:40hrs

17:00hrs 4:40hrs

Lagos- Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi-Lagos

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

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

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

Lagos-Cairo Cairo-Lagos

MS 876 MS 875

14:25hrs 08:30hrs

22:20hrs 13:30hrs

Lagos-Nairobi Nairobi-Lagos

KQ 533 KQ 534

12:30hrs 18:00hrs

19:35hrs 23:45hrs

Lagos-Kigali

AWB 201 11:15hrs (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun) AWB 202 14:00hrs (Tue, Thur, Sat, Sun)

16:45hrs

Lagos-Istanbul Nairobi-Lagos

332 333

22:35hrs 15:10hrs

06:00hrs 21:20hrs

Lagos to Abidjan

HF 851 10:10hrs (Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sun) HF 852 19:20hrs (Mon,Wed, Thurs, Sat)

10:50hrs

IBERIA

air maroc

VIRGIN ATLANTIC ETIHAD AIRWAYS

EGYPT AIR

KENYA AIRWAYS RwandAir

Kigali-Lagos

Turkish Airlines Air Côte d'Ivoire

Abidjan to Lagos

17:30hrs

21.50hrs

ASKY Airlines international travel tips Earning Miles on ASKY Airlines ASKY is a Lome -Togo based airline that provides an extensive route network within West Africa. The airline provides excellent connections with Ethiopian Airlines flights serving cities in West Africa. Ethiopian Airlines and ASKY provide an end-toend service for frequent flyers enrolled in ShebaMiles. The airlines jointly provide full coverage of Africa providing full mile earning opportunity for a frequent flyer.

News

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Lamorde: EFCC'll go after corrupt govs, ministers, others Emmanuel Onani Abuja

hair man of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ibrahim Lamorde, has vowed that the anti-graft agency will go after governors, ministers and other public office holders, serving or former, who are alleged to have been involved in loot-

ing public treasury. This, he noted, is with a view to eliminating official corruption from the system. A statement by the Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, quoted the Commission's chairman as making the declaration in Abuja yesterday, when he received a team of investigators from the Metropolitan Police, led by Jonathan

Benton. According to Lamorde, the Commission is currently investigating some sitting and ex-governors, ministers, ex-ministers and former Heads of Service of the Federation. The list of those being investigated, includes some members of the National Assembly, who may have abused their privileges. He threatened that the

commission will spread its dragnet outside the country, to repatriate looted funds that may have been stashed outside. He announced that in a few months, "confiscation proceeding" of former Governor James Ibori's assets in the United Kingdom (UK) will begin. Ibori is serving a jail term, after his conviction by a UK court. Lamorde also thanked

the Metropolitan Police for helping the Commission, in the cases of former Bayelsa State Governor, Chief Diepriye Alamieyeseigha and his then Plateau State counterpart, Senator Joshua Dariye. The statement quoted Lamorde as saying: "A lot is going on. We have embarked on investigations, which involves some sitting governors, ex-governors, serving ministers,

L-R: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in Sokoto State, Abdullah Wali; President Goodluck Jonathan and the party's National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, at a presidential rally in Sokoto...yesterday.

ex-ministers, some former Heads of Service of the Federation and some members of the National Assembly. "Any public officer who decides to deep his or her hand in the government coffers to steal, even if such money is taken outside the country, it has no hiding place. There are machinery to trace and recover the money and then bring the culprits to justice. "In a few months, there is also going to be a confiscation proceeding in respect of the assets of James Ibori in United Kingdom which, of course, we have been working assiduously to make sure that it will be successful when the case comes up." Lamorde, who also used the opportunity of the visit to review the activities of his agency over the years, said the UK anticorruption Asset Recovery Task Force Unit had been of tremendous support to EFCC in fighting economic and financial crimes in the country. Earlier, Benton said: “It is important that we play our part in fighting corruption. Therefore, we are very privileged to have this long-standing relationship with EFCC. On our part, we shall continue to partner EFCC with investigation of its cases in Nigeria. So far, we have had success stories."

Economy: Banks walk the rough road We'll support Buhari to CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

for private and public sector to 75 per cent and 100 percent respectively, as well as monetary policy to 13 per cent. In view of the development in the sector, New Telegraph investigations revealed that some banks have decided to prorate or manage their staff welfare allowances on housing, furniture and transport, which make up their upfront pay, while others plan to pay off workers’ gratuities and asked them to reapply in their bid to end every legacy issues of workers. While banks such as Ecobank Nigeria Plc are not paying upfront because it is not part of their corporate culture, First City Monument Bank Plc (FCMB) is yet to pay upfront to staff even as it is set to sack some of its workers. Also, Skye Bank Plc has resorted to the hiring of Direct Sales Executives (DSEs) in a bid to reduce labour or human capital cost of operations. Other banks such as Union Bank of Nigeria Plc seeking to pay off the

gratuities of their workers have asked them to reapply, in their bid to end staff legacy issues and safe costs. Some banks have also commenced the process of cutting jobs and putting on hold branch expansion plans. Others laid off workers late last year, while others have already began outsourcing some job functions, a development that has seen some of them transferring some categories of employees to thirdparty companies. Recently, Skye Bank Plc announced that it had transferred its tellers, drivers, security personnel and other support staff members to three outsourcing firms. This led to the disengagement of the affected employees from the bank and their subsequent transfer to the third-party firms. Skye Bank has since defended the move, saying it is part of the initiatives to strengthen all cadres of its workforce. It added that the outsourcing companies appointed to take over the

employees are Optimum Continental Services, Strategic Outsourcing Limited and Integrated Corporate Services Limited. The bank gave the assurances that the outsourcing firms would engage the affected employees under the same terms and conditions as the financial institution employed them. Also, Unity Bank Plc had last July announced the disengagement of 170 of its workers as part of efforts aimed at repositioning it for effective service delivery. The lender also said that it had recruited over 300 new members of staff, mostly at the entry level. Zenith Bank Plc, Union Bank and Diamond Bank Plc had in the last two years sacked hundreds of their workers. Besides job cuts, lenders, especially those in the Tier 1 bracket, are also planning to reduce the number of new branches to be opened this year. Similarly, major projects and sponsorship programmes for third-party companies, which may not add value, have al-

ready been expunged from banks’ budget for this year according to the head of corporate affairs of one of the big banks, who elected not to be named because of the sensitive nature of the issue. Global rating agency, Fitch Ratings, and other international and local research firms had late last year predicted that Nigerian banks would witness a fall in profitability this year. On November 25, 2014, the CBN’s Monetary Policy Committee devalued the naira by eight per cent; raised Monetary Policy Rate from 12 to 13 per cent; and also increased the private sector Cash Reserve Requirement from 15 to 20 per cent. The development, which led to the immediate withdrawal of about N500 billion from the banking system, was said to have affected the banks adversely. Also, in a bid to halt the sliding naira, the CBN had in December stopped the banks from keeping any of their funds in foreign currencies. It also said dollars bought from it must be CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

salvage Nigeria, says IBB CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

tions so as not to give any room for rigging. The duo said the policing of voters by the electorate was the surest way to deter politicians from subverting the people's wishes. Buhari said: "Do not leave the polling units, until the result is declared. Anything that may jeopardise the result of the election should not be allowed to take place. Wherever you are, defend your votes during the February elections." He also assured the people of the state that he will provide enough power to enable businessmen carry out their businesses in a well dignified manner. "Without power, most of the industries will not strive. If voted, I will improve the agricultural sector in Niger State, knowing full well, the state is one of the food baskets of the nation," he added. Tinubu who spoke in the same vein, said Jonathan's administration was deceiving Nigerians that was why the country could not move forward.

"Six years ago, he promised us that, he we will step down and will not re-contest again; but today, what is the case? He has put the country in economic mess." He urged electorate to get their voters' cards ready for the election, stating that their cards will bring development to the nation. However, the PDP has described the campaigns of the APC as mere drama and empty. The party also said Jonathan would be massively voted for in the North because of his achievements. At an interactive session with journalists in Abuja yesterday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, said Nigerians were not yet told by APC what it would do for them, if elected into office. "Our opponent has been talking. The party has not told people what it will do. There is no zone APC will win in the next election. PDP will win zone by zone in the coming presidential election", Metuh added.

News

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Election petition: INEC advocates dispute resolution mechanism Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is advocating for an effective dispute resolution mechanism, rather than judicial process in resolving electoral disputes. INEC chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega at a two-day international conference on “Emerging Electoral Jurisprudence in Africa” in Abuja yesterday also said the 2011 general elections were less disputed compared to the previous polls before it. Jega, who was represented by a National Commissioner, Dr. Ishmael Igbani, noted that electoral and political litigations had always turned out to be expensive and time consuming. "Perhaps, a rethink and remodelling has become necessary to explore the use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism as an alternative to litigation. "INEC believes that this is viable and the upgrading of ADR Unit to a Directorate and the modest success it has achieved has vindicated this position," Jega

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said. He said the number of recorded petitions in 2011 was 733 compared to 3,000 recorded in 2007. A breakdown of the petitions, he disclosed, was presidential election two, governorship 53, Senatorial 90, House of Representatives 198, States Houses of

Assembly 390. "Currently, the widely held view is that it is the judiciary rather than the voters that determine electoral outcomes in Nigeria. "The judiciary, beginning from electoral tribunals to the Supreme Court, have had to decide on sensitive and prominent guber-

natorial and presidential cases, respectively," Jega said. The Director-General of the Electoral Institute, Prof. Abubakar Momoh, said that the conference was organised to find better alternative to election litigations considering the huge cost of electioneering

and electoral litigations. He said this was necessary to improve the trust and credibility of ballot in the country. The West Africa representative of Ford Foundation, Mr. Innocent Chukwuma, said the importance of the conference was underscored by the obser-

vation of the presidential election petitions in Africa. The conference was organised by the Electoral Institute (TEI), an organ of INEC in collaboration with the Ford Foundation and was attended by participants from Kenya, Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania and Ghana.

L-R: Group Head, Human Capital Management and Development, First Bank, Mrs. Ayo Jaiyesimi; Managing Director, Vision and Talent International, Mr. Paul Uduk and Head, Learning and Development, Fidelity Bank Plc., Irunna Ejibe, during the 2015 Vision and Talents Training Colloquium in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO: ADEYANJU OLOWOJOBA

Economy: Banks Marketers disregard new fuel walk the rough road price in Lagos, Ogun, others CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

utilised within 48 hours, adding that the actions were aimed at stopping the banks from speculating on the exchange rate. It also issued fresh guidelines on the operation of the standing deposits facility, setting the maximum renewable daily placements by banks at N7.5 billion, thereby forcing banks and discount houses to fast-track their financial intermediation with reduced earnings. In addition, the central bank forbade banks from charging fees on services it deemed essential to boosting domestic access to financial services. Increasingly, a princely portion of deposits held by banks ends up with the CBN, where these increasingly expensively sourced funds just sit idling away. While this depletes the funds available to banks to lend to the economy, or to arbitrage money market failures, it also has the unintended consequence of driving up rates. All these have the comprehensive impact of reducing lenders’ volume of their transaction and by extension, reducing the profit they make.

Experts said the recent regulatory measures would have major negative effects on the banks this year, adding that they were already feeling the effects of previous actions by the CBN, especially the increase in public sector CRR, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria’s levy increase and the gradual removal of certain bank charges. The Managing Director, HighCap Investment and Securities, Mr. David Adonri, said although banks had been affected by previous regulatory measures, the recent actions of the CBN would further affect their operations beginning from the first quarter of this year. “A number of banks will declare good yearend results for the last financial year. But starting from the first quarter of this year, their profits may begin to decline owing to some of these regulatory headwinds,” Adonri said. Fitch, in a report released on October 8, 2014, said actions aimed at protecting the economy and the banking system by the CBN would make the profits of the lenders for this year to drop.

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Findings showed that some filling stations, including the NNPC mega station, Total on Sapele Road and Conoil on Akpakpava Road, all in Benin City, were selling at the new price. Officials of the State Petroleum Monitoring Committee also swung into action to ensure compliance. Oando station on Sapele Road was sealed off for non-compliance with the new price regime. At the Airport Road in Abuja, it was discovered that stations owned by independent marketers were still dispensing fuel at N97 per litre as only NNPC mega stations sold petrol for N87. At the Conoil stations, a fuel attendant stated that the price adjustment would not be immediate. According to her, there would "check and balance" before the pump price would be adjusted. At Mobil station also along the airport road, the price pump still read N97 per litre. But DPR said it had begun enforcing the new price in Abuja. The spokesperson of DPR, Mr Mohammed Saidu, said in an interview with journalists in Abuja

that the agency was poised to ensure full compliance with the directive/ According to him, the agency has deployed surveillance teams, led by the Director of DPR, Mr. George Osahon, to ensure full compliance in Abuja. He said about 70 per cent of the filling stations visited had changed their metres to reflect the new pump price. Meanwhile, the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) have reacted to the new price. NLC commended the government for the price reduction, but said it was not sufficiently deep enough. In a statement in Abuja yesterday by its General Secretary, Dr. Peter OsoEzon, NLC lamented that the government had prior to the price reduction substantially devalued the naira to ensure that the full benefits of falling crude oil price were not passed on to Nigerians. It added that it had advised government to reduce the price of the petroleum products in the wake of the falling crude

oil prices in the international market for Nigerians to benefit from the development. But TUC described the price cut as a sign of government's sensitivity to the plight of poor Nigerians. The APC also accused the Federal Government of making a show out of deceit by its so-called fuel price reduction, saying a 10.3 per cent slash in the price of petrol (is a mere tokenism at a time the price of crude oil has crashed by about 60 per cent. APC in a statement in Lagos yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said the pump price of a litre of fuel should not be more than N70. Also, the APC Presidential Campaign Organisation (APCPCO) called on the government to further reduce the pump price of petro just as it stated that the so call reduction came late. The campaign organisation, in a statement by its Director of Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, said the price reduction was politically motivated and the N10 removed from the old price fell short of the people’s expectation.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

News

NATIONAL

Air traffic controllers shelve strike, sign deal with NAMA Wole Shadare

ir traffic controllers, under the aegis of National Association of Air Traffic Controllers (NATCA) have shelved their planned disruption of flight operations as the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has acceded to their demands with a view to resolving all industrial disputes. The management of NAMA had held meetings with the controllers with a view to prevailing on them to rescind their

decision. The first meeting held on Saturday was deadlocked, heightening fear of impending strike action slated for yesterday. Worried by the danger of air traffic controllers withdrawing their services, NAMA also held another meeting through Sunday night until they were able to reach a truce at about 1 am on Monday. At the end of the meeting involving Air Transport Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSAN), NATCA and NAMA, a communiqué was issued for the par-

ties to shelve the strike action. They agreed that the list of NAMA staff due for promotion shall be compiled and forwarded to the Minister of Aviation for approval, adding that the NAMA management was already addressing the issue of effective working tools with the ongoing deployment of ADS-C/CPDLC, Activation of Mode S, the renewal of the total radar coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) support services agreement, the on-going Federal Government project for the

replacement of navigational aids in 12 airports, as well as the automation of operational processes. Part of the agreement was that the NAMA management had already commenced due process for the recruitment and training of air traffic control cadets through a request earlier forwarded to the Minister of Aviation in 2014; sustenance of NAMA’s commitment to the conduct of safety critical trainings as exhibited in the ongoing Performance Based Navigation (PBN) training for 40 air traffic controllers

in Cairo, Egypt. The communiqués signed by the Managing Director of the agency, Ibrahim Abdulsalami; ATSSAN President, Benjamin Okewu and NATCA President Victor Eyaru, agreed that the management of NAMA will obtain and implement the report of the management committee earlier set up to review the issue of outstanding balance of course allowances arising from the World Bank sponsored trainings in 2010 and 2011. The controllers had last week raised the dan-

Dangote, six foreign firms to mine gold, iron ore

The percentage of men above 60 years in Ghana in 2012. Source: Un.org

75.4%

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

The life expectancy of women at birth in Bulgaria in 2010-2015. Source: Un.org

2.23

The number of fixed-telephone subscriptions per 100 inhabitants of Mauritania in 2008. Source: Itu.int

PAYBACK TIME

Fanatical support for Jonathan is a way of paying back for winning election, Ekiti gov says

Adesina Wahab ADO-EKITI

kiti State Governor, Mr Ayo Fayose, has given the reason he is fanatically supporting President Goodluck Jonathan to be re-elected for another term. Speaking at the palace of the Elemure of Emure-

ger with air safety in the country as they disclosed that the newly installed 64 million Euros radar at the Lagos airport has collapsed. According to a statement by NATCA President, Victor Eyaru and General Secretary, Olawode Banji said, “In the past four days, it has collapsed totally twice. When any of the equipment fails; the workloads of air traffic controllers and pilots increase and increasing the levels of fatigue thereby encouraging infringement on air safety”.

L-R: Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Kwara State, Hon. Ishola Balogun Fulani; Deputy Governor, Elder Peter Kisira; Governor and APC gubernatorial candidate, Dr Abdulfatah Ahmed and APC Leader, Kwara State, Senator Bukola Saraki, during the party’s campaign rally at Erin-Ile, Kwara State

Why I am supporting Jonathan — Fayose Ekiti, Oba Emmanuel Adebayo,yesterday, the governor said the President's main challenger, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC), had been pocketed by a cabal whose interest they have placed above the corporate interest of Nigeria. "The candidate of the main opposition has been cornered by a cabal for their own selfish interest. If Buhari is allowed to return, the country will slide into dictatorship. Jonathan

is a humble personality, who does not allow the aura of office to go into his head. "For me, it is reciprocation time. The President was solidly behind me and the victory recorded in the June 21 governorship election was not without the solid support from the Presidency. "What I believe in my life is absolute loyalty and that is my own philosophy about politics. It is either I am for you or I am against you. “Apart from the fact

that President Jonathan has done his best by Nigeria, the Presidency is a very powerful position that needs a humble personality like Jonathan to superintend over. So Ekiti must stand up for Jonathan and I want to assure you, he will not forget you”, he stated. Oba Adebayo, who urged politicians to play the game by the rule, advised gladiators in the political arena to consider the corporate interest of the nation. Speaking at the campaign ground, Fayose

appealed to all aggrieved aspirants to bury their grievances and join efforts with the candidates to win the elections. “When I was in opposition, I defeated an incumbent governor in all the 16 local government areas. I know it is going to be an easy ride now that we are in government. “By the grace of God and the support of the people, I won’t lose any slot in the State House of Assembly and National Assembly elections,” he boasted.

angote Goup of Companies is among seven companies listed by the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office to begin the mining of gold, iron ore, coal and lead/zinc this year. According to the Director-General of the Office, Mr Mohammed Amate, Dangote and six other foreign companies have been chosen to engage in the mining os the listed solid minerals. He made the disclosure in an interview in Abuja. Amate said the companies were Kogi Mines Ltd, Segilola Nig. Ltd and Mines Geotechniques Nig. Ltd. Others are Northern Numero Resources Ltd, West African Polaris Investment Ltd. and Tongyi Allied and Mineral Services Ltd. He said Kogi Mines; an Australia Mining Company based in Kogi, had concluded exploration programmes, adding that it would commence mining of iron ore in Agbaja in the state in 2015. Amate said that the company had completed its four-year exploration and that it had delineated more than 500 million tonnes of iron ore. He said Segilola Nig. Ltd would also begin mining of gold in Iperindo area of the IIesha Schist belt of Osun.

Shake-up: Army redeploys 137 Generals, other senior officers Our Correspondent

he Nigerian Army has carried out routine postings and appointments that affected 35 Major Generals and 102 Brigadier Generals. Also affected in the exercise were 50 Colonels, 17 Lieutenant Colonels, 25 Majors and 41 Captains. The document contain-

ing the names of officers, their Personal Number (P/o) and new postings, which was exclusively obtained by New Telegraph, was dated January 15, and signed by Major General I.I. Abbah. The routine exercise had earlier been confirmed by the Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Brigadier General

Olajide Laleye. Laleye, in a text message to one of our correspondents, had said: "Following retirements and promotions in the Army, the Nigerian Army has accordingly promulgated routine postings." The document said the posting and appointment of the officers are effective from the dates shown

against their names. The affected Major Generals are: Major Generals MB Ibrahim (to remain in Defence Headquarters), AG Olonisakin (from HQ NAS to HQ TRADOC), SZ Uba, DMN Oji, RN Nkado, PAA Falola, JM Ogidi, JN Nimyel, JS Zaruwa, RO Yusuf, BT Ndiomu, SN Muazu (now GOC 2 Division), and MT Ibrahim.

Others are: Major Generals H Umaru, MA Alkali, AB Abubakar, ECN Obi, CAT Jemitola, OE Ekanem, OO Adeleke, DD Ahmadu, EO Nze, MH Garba, KI Abdulkarim, MY Ibrahim, LO Adeosun (now GOC 7 Division), AG Okunlola, IN Ijioma, IH Edet, BO Okunkale, LC Ilo, AA Tarfa, IM Alkali, I Birigeni, and LEO Irabor.

Among the Brigadier Generals are: Brig. Gen AO Odidi, OO Okunowo, AL Igeleko, AA Fadunsi, AM Sabo, RC Duru, HO Oliki, FC Eze, MM Mshella, IM Raji, KO Ogundele, KSN Gora, AG Adeyemi, OU Obono, JA Orokpo, EG Ode, CM Abraham, SA Gyam, TC Eze, EB Oyelolu, CB Wanda, and EO Udoh.

For the record

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For the record

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Metro 10

Shola Adefuwa

robbery suspect, Monday Obebe, has told detectives attached to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Ikeja, Lagos State that his life of crime started while he was still in Junior Secondary School. According to him, it was the need to pay his school fees that spurred him to embrace crime. He later graduated to armed robbery. Obebe, 28, who said he used to be a plumber, said: “I have gone to four operations with the gang. I was in Junior Secondary School (JSS 3) when I started stealing. “My first crime? I stole a phone belonging to a teacher in my school and sold it for N3,000. I had to steal the phone because I wanted to pay my school fees. I don’t have a mother and my daddy is an old man. I attended Bariga Comprehensive High School.” Obebe was among three suspects arrested for robbery. The others are Gbolahun Lawal (26) and Beneth Kwum (20). They were arrested on December 17, 2014, at 7up, Ijora area of the state. The police alleged that the suspects had carried out a series of operations at Ajah, Orile, Bariga and other places in Lagos before they met their waterloo. Police recovered two locally-made guns from them. The downfall of the gang began after the Commissioner of Police, Mr Kayode Aderanti, got information from an anonymous caller, about the activities of the gang. Aderanti instructed the Officer in Charge of SARS, Mr Abba Kyari, to track down the suspects. A police source said: “The leader of the gang, Lawal, was arrested on December 17. Three other members, Wanne, Taiwo and Ceian are still at large. Kwum’s duty in the gang is to provide information on where they would go and rob. “He told the police that he was not going on robbery operations with the gang because he was known to the prospective victims.

ABIODUN BELLO FEATURES Editor

abiodun.bello@newtelegraphonline.com

My life of crime started in secondary school –Suspect

The suspects

“But the last operation was at Bariga. It happened before the suspects’ arrest. He had to go with the gang because none of the members knew the precise location of the house of the person they wanted to rob. “He, however, stayed outside while the gang members went inside to rob the man. The gang collected the victim’s Toyota Camry car, 2010 model, a laptop, gold necklace and other valuables.” The stealing of the Camry car was the gang’s undoing. The gang members did not

know the car had a tracker. Detectives were able to track the car to where the gang was about to sell it. Lawal, a lotto agent at Ijora area, said: “I have gone to five operations with the gang. I have gone with them to rob at Ajah, Orile, Bariga and twice at Oworoshoki. “The first operation was not good because members of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) disturbed us. In the Orile operation, I collected N26,000, while in the Ajah robbery, my share of the loot was N18,500. I was

also given a laptop.” Lawal, who said that he got a gun for robbery from a friend who was a cult member, added that he embraced robbery because he was incurring a lot of debt in the lotto business. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the arrest of the suspects. He said: “Three of the suspects were arrested and they had already confessed to some robberies in Lagos. Three of them are on the run but efforts are ongoing to arrest them.”

Adebutu promises to provide job for youths

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives’ candidate for Remo Federal Constituency, Ogun State, Hon Oladipupo Adebutu, has promised to provide jobs for youths in his constituency, if elected. Adebutu gave this assurance at Oja-Ale, Iperu Remo during his ongoing campaign tour of 35 wards across Sagamu, Ikenne and Remo North local governments. The PDP candidate promised to provide more jobs in addition to the ones he already provided through his chain of businesses established within Remo. Adebutu, according to a statement by his Director, Media and Publicity, Mr Sesan Akinsanya, also promised to empower his people with all the salaries that would be paid to him in the National Assembly. He said: “I urge you to vote for me and all other PDP candidates in the 2015 general election. A vote for me and President Goodluck Jonathan is one that will bring federal presence to Remo and thereby provides the much-anticipated dividends of democracy.” Also speaking at the event, PDP chieftains, Gbenga Ogunnoiki and Alhaja Mujidat Ogunnaike, enjoined the people to vote for Adebutu because of his various philanthropic gestures which had greatly helped to better the lot of the people at the grassroots.

Fresh crisis claims two in Nasarawa Cheke Emmanuel LAFIA

t least two persons have reportedly lost their lives in a fresh outbreak of violence at Gidan Bem in Lafia East Development Area of Nasarawa State. Two other persons were abducted when people suspected to be of Fulani stock wielding AK47 rifles opened fire on the residents. The residents, who had fled the community seven months ago in the wake of a bloody attack, were said to be returning to their village when the armed men struck again. Similarly, gunmen attacked the residents of Fadama Burga, a suburb of Lafia, the state capital. The attack occurred a few hours after the people returned to the community. A survivor of Gidan Bem attack, James Tyav, told our correspondent that he and four others had gone to the village to look for foodstuff when the

gunmen opened fire on them. According to him, the assailants shot dead two persons and abducted two others. He said: “We were on our way to the village to look for food stuff. We did not know that armed Fulani men were there. When they saw us, they opened fire on us. They killed two of my brothers and took away my sister and one other person. I was lucky to escape.’’ It was, however, learnt that soldiers later rescued a woman who was abducted at Gidan Bem when the matter was reported to them. The soldiers reportedly apprehended two suspects and three others caught stealing yam and roofing sheets at Logobi on Assakio-Obi Road. The attacks came three days after Governor Tanko Al-Makura had called on the people, especially the displaced people in the Southern Senatorial District, which was engulfed by communal crisis, to return home. Suspected armed Fulani

File picture of scene of violent attack in Nasarawa

men had carried out attacks on Eggon, Tiv and Migili communities, all in the Southern Senatorial District of the state, killing hundreds of people and burning houses. They also graced farmlands and displaced thousands of people. The crisis, which had ravaged many communities,

spread to Tudun Gwandara, Kilema, Tudun Amba and Shabu all in Lafia, the state capital, resulting to loss of lives and property before it was checked by security forces. The police had arrested 22 persons in connection with the Lafia crisis and charged them to court. The police also recovered arms from the suspects.

Metro 11

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY JANUARY 20, 2015

Banks shut over robbery scare in Akure Babatope Okeowo Akure

ommercial banks and business outfits in Akure, the Ondo State capital, hurriedly closed their doors yesterday following a robbery scare at Alagbaka and other parts of the town. The robbery scare, which started around midday, made many people who wanted to transact business to be stranded as customers who were already in the banks were asked to leave. Many of the banks located at Alagbaka area of the city also prevented customers from entering the banks’ premises. Similarly, bank officials who were attending to customers hurriedly closed for the day as the scare circulated by text message spread to different parts of the state. In fact, those who wanted to collect cash from the ATM machines were asked to leave as the banks said they could not guarantee their safety. The development, however, caused untold hardship for bank customers in the city as many of them returned home disappointed. Armed robbers had last

week wreaked havoc on Ikare Akoko, headquarters of Akoko North East Local Government Area of the state and killed about 20 people. The police immediately deplored Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) to all the areas where banks are located while armed policemen patrolled the city. A security officer at one of the braches of an old generation bank in Alagbaka area, who preferred anonymity, said the banks in the area got the alert that armed robbers were in the city and planned to rob some new generation banks, hence the closure of the banks. Reacting to the development, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr Wole Ogodo, said the police moved round the state to prevent robbery. He, however, said the alert of an impending bank robbery was false. Ogodo said that police officers led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police moved round all the banks to ensure security of lives and property. While urging the people to continue with their lawful businesses, the PPRO said that the police were on top of the security situation in the state.

Muritala Ayinla

One of the banks attacked in Ikare Akoko last week

‘Workers’ health, key to nation’s growth’

he Managing Director, Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Mr Akin Soyemi (an engineer) has called on Nigerian workers to take seriously issues relating to their health. Soyemi said this at the opening of a two-day workshop on gender and health issues affecting workers’ performance for workers of the authority. The workshop, organised by CTIC Direct, was held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Declaring the workshop

Obebe (left), Awe-Obe and Head, Strategy and Planning, CTIC Direct, Mr. Leke Akinpelu, at the workshop.

open, the MD, who spoke through the Deputy Direc-

Lagos to provide 117 squad cars for police

tor, Administration, Mr Soji Obebe, enjoined participants

to take advantage of the workshop to improve their understanding of gender issues with a view to engendering better working environment thereby improving their productivity. Soyemi, according to a statement issued by the Chief Executive Officer of CTIC Direct, Dr Olusegun Awe-Obe, urged the workers to be more conscious of their well-being. He said that it was only a healthy worker that could contribute to the growth of the authority and actualisation of its goals.

overnor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State yesterday said he would soon send 117 squad cars to the state police command in addition to over 880 vehicles which his administration had provided to the divisional police stations across the state in the last seven years. New Telegraph had earlier reported that the state government had spent N2.3 billion on fuelling the vehicles which include undercover cars, patrol vehicles and 30 Armour Personnel Carriers (APCs). But while handing over the Information, Communication Technology (ICT) resource centre to police stations at the Area ‘H’ Police Command, Kosofe Local Government, Fashola disclosed that the squad cars would enhance policing in the state. He said: “We have also concluded plans to ensure that the 117 division police stations in the state have world standard patrol vehicles. It will not be Hilux because those ones are for operational purpose. They will be proper squad cars used in other advanced countries.” Fashola said the squad cars were already being assembled in Japan and when deployed, they would assist police personnel to respond to crime more efficiently. He added: “With the squad cars in each of the police stations, officers can go in pairs with on-board computers and reinforced shock absorbers. This will not affect the continuous provision of the Hilux vans for the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and police stations.” Earlier, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Kayode Aderanti, thanked Fashola for his consistent support to the state police command. Aderanti said the various forms of support had not only enhanced the operational capacity of the force but had also made the state safer. He said: “We thank you for your consistent support. All of your interventions had helped make our job easier. ICT centre is first in the country and we assure you that it would be put to use to help achieve our dream of a crime-free Lagos.”

RCCG offers residents free medical test Taiwo Jimoh

he Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Lagos Province 37, Peace Sanctuary, has offered free medical check-up to the residents of Akintoye Street, Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos State. Aside from the free eye test, the residents underwent different tests to know their health status. They were tested for genotype, sugar level, blood pressure, weight and height, among others. Pastor Oluwayemi Olajide, in charge of Corporate Social Responsibility, who bemoaned the inability of Nigerians to observe regular medical checkups, said the gesture was to safeguard people’s health. He said: “What we are do-

ing is the vision laid down by the General Overseer of the church, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, to ensure that our host community where we minister, benefits from the welfare package of the church. “We want to contribute our quota to making life better for our host community by ensuring reduction in illness in the community.” Olajide added that the exercise would help the residents to know their health status. According to him, if there is a complex situation the church cannot handle, the person will be referred to a bigger facility while the church foots the medical bills. A beneficiary said: “I thank the church for the good gesture extended to us. Some of us don’t have money to go to hos-

pitals for medical check-up. But we were treated free of charge by the church. We want other churches in the neighbourhood to emulate the RCCG.” Mrs. Tokunbo Ogunmakin, another beneficiary, said: “What the church is doing would help in alleviating the suffering of majority of the residents. Many are suffering from one illness or another and do not have money to take care of themselves.” The presiding pastor, Urhrebrume Kennedy, said: “We had it at the back of our minds that anywhere our parishes are located, we should touch the lives of the people. “When I was posted to the church, I looked around the vicinity and met with some of the elders in the community. I told them that we were go-

Some of the beneficiaries being screened at the event

ing to construct drainage for them, but they refused. We, however, later came up

with a free medical checkup for members of the community.”

News

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

SOUTH-WEST

Osoba: SDP will run issue-based campaign Kunle Olayeni Abeokuta

he former governor of Ogun State and National Leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Chief Olusegun Osoba, yesterday said his party would run a campaign that would focus on issues and address specific needs of the people. He also warned party members against abusing or attacking the per-

sonalities of opposition parties’ candidates in the run-up to the February general election. Addressing party supporters at the SDP campaign rally in Ota yesterday, Osoba said the party was not interested in running anybody down. The former governor, who defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), said he would rather focus on wooing voters through the party’s plans and programmes. He also urged SDP

The sex ratio of men to 100 women in the 60+ age group in Aruba in 2012. Source: Un.org

members not to engage in raining abuses or attacking other candidates except when they have genuine evidences to back up such claims. Osoba said: “Party members should not engage in abuses or attacks, particularly personal attacks on candidates, except when they have genuine and unassailable evidence to back up their claims. “Party members should not join in the silly idea of tearing posters and destroying billboards of

0.34%

other candidates and parties. Any misbehaviour or inappropriate action, including cases of violence, should be immediately reported to appropriate law enforcement agencies. “I believe if we concentrate on winning more people to our side through persuasion and propagation of our philosophy and programmes, we will achieve our objectives of winning the forthcoming elections.” Also speaking, the SDP governorship candidate, Akin Odunsi,

647.5

The percentage share of passenger air travel of Ibadan The total area (in sq. km) of airport of Nigeria’s total air passengers in 2013. Singapore. Source: National Bureau of Statistics Source: Paywizard.co.uk

promised to run an allinclusive administration if voted. Odunsi, who is currently representing Ogun West senatorial district, said people of the state would reap maximum benefit from the projects to be embarked upon by his government. “We shall put to judicious use, funds to manage all ongoing projects. There will not be over concentration of government in a singular area as projects will be evenly spread across the state,” he added.

14.54%

The percentage of individuals using the internet in Azerbaijan in 2007. Source: Itu.int

L-R: Marketing Communicator, Mantrac Nigeria Limited, Chinenye Okoli; Chairman, Association of Local Government of Nigeria, Oyo State Unit, Hon. Yekeen Popoola; Acting General Manager, Construction Machines, Alex Nwoko and Lead Sales Executive, Adetutu Mesele, at the commissioning of 66 units of Mantrac Construction Equipment supplied to Oyo State in Ibadan.

Olasunkanmi warns against violence in Osun Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

he senatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun West, Senator Olasunkanmi Akinlabi, yesterday charged politicians, especially the candidates of the different political parties in the forthcoming elections, to embrace the peace pact signed by them to make the exercise a violent-free one. Speaking yesterday at a gathering where numerous members of his party passed a vote of confidence in his candidature, Akinlabi preached against violence and acrimony, saying if the pact signed by politicians could be followed to the latter, the country’s democracy would be at advantage to the key players and its beneficiaries. He frowned on politics with bitterness, which he argued would only retard the country’s democratic process and charged politicians to always play by the rules. The senatorial candidate, while assuring the people of his readiness to impart positive changes, also pledged to sponsor bills ‘that would impact positively on Nigerians.’ While receiving Olasunkanmi on behalf of other party members, a PDP chieftain, Chief Abiola Ogundokun, described the senator as a straightforward politician with credible potential, urging the people to cast their votes for him.

NUT, ASUSS: Our strike Agbaje accuses APC govt of underfunding primary education not politically motivated T

Kunle Olayeni Abeokuta

he Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS) in Ogun State yesterday said the indefinite strike embarked upon by teachers in public schools in the state was not politically-motivated. Ogun State NUT Chairman, Comrade Dare Ilekoya and his ASUSS counterpart, Comrade Akeem Lasisi, said this at a joint press conference held in Abeokuta yesterday. The unions had on Friday paralysed activities at public schools, vowing not to return to the classroom until their demands are met by Gov-

ernor Ibikunle Amosun. Their demands include the non-payment of the remaining 12.5 per cent Teachers Peculiar Allowance (TPA), non-remittance of deductions to appropriate organisations, non-payment of leave allowance and the compulsory retirement of 34 teachers last year. The unions also expressed dissatisfaction over the ‘non-filling of vacant Principal General and Headmaster General positions as well as the non-release of running grant for four terms’ in public schools. Addressing journalists yesterday, Ilekoya said Amosun’s failure to honour the agreement reached with the teachers since last year led to the industrial action.

he governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, Mr. Jimi Agbaje, has identified inadequate funding as one of the factors militating against primary school education in the state. He attributed this to the fact that only three per cent of the state’s budget went to primary

school education, while vocational education is accorded 1.5 per cent. This, he said, placed the state at a major disadvantage in view of the strategic position of primary education to national development. Agbaje said the PDP government under him, would reverse the trend to improve the system, accord-

ing to a statement issued by his campaign office. Agbaje, who spoke at a governorship debate organised for governorship candidates in Lagos, said governments around the world placed a lot of emphasis on primary education as it was the foundation of formal education. This, he said, was the

reason why the founder of Facebook and many inventors with little university education, ended up being astounding innovators. Continuing, the PDP chieftain lamented that foreign welders were flown into the country, earning thousands of dollars working as welders in the oil and gas industry.

Osun PDP in disarray as spokesperson is sacked Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

he bickering between the Osun State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Ganiyu Olaoluwa and the party’s Director of Publicity and Strategy, Prince Diran Odeyemi, took a dramatic turn

yesterday as the leadership of the party sacked the spokesperson for allegedly attacking the chairman on the pages of newspapers. The leadership of the party in a statement signed by the Publicity Secretary, Prince Bola Ajao and made available to newsmen in Osogbo, however, passed a vote of

confidence on the chairman, describing him as a straightforward and patriotic leader. Ajao said the state working committee of the party took the step “since Mr. Diran Odeyemi has shown himself as an uncontrollable irritant and it is important that the party excuses him to allow him engage in his

cash-and-carry media management strategy.” Odeyemi in a separate release yesterday, said: “Sacking me as the Director of Media and Strategy of Osun PDP is a display of ignorance in party management and an exhibition of intellectual deficiency. It is a voluntary position assigned to me with no pay.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Election

Niger deputy gov, PDP leaders defect to APC

Certificate

Buhari not eligible for presidential election, Fani-Kayode insists

Power tussle

Insurgency

Edo: PDP, APC draw battle line

Reps, INEC plan for displaced persons

Politics South-West as Jonathan, WALE ELEGBEDE writes on the combative moves, depth, loopholes and make-up moves of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) in the battle for the soul of the South-West ahead of the February 14 presidential election

Buhari’s battleground

n paper, there are six zones to fight for in the presidential election, but in political reality, two – NorthWest and South-West – appear to be the major turf owing to the voting population advantage they carry above the remaining four geo-political zones. From the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) record of voters’, the two zones have the biggest chunk from its 68,833,476 numbers of registered voters nationwide. The South-West has 13,731,090 voters in the commission’s register representing 19.9 per cent. Unlike in the 2011 general election where the All Progressives Congress (APC) held sway in five out of the six states in the SouthWest, the political equation for the 2015 election presents a different scenario as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) seems to have made incursion into the region by nipping two states to its patent. Presently, the APC controls Lagos, Ogun, Osun and Oyo states, while the PDP has Ekiti and Ondo states under his ambit. However, one shared belief among political watchers is that with the different contradictions playing out within the parties in the zone, the outcome of the election might be determined by factors outside holding the control of the state by a political party. As it stands, the influence of state governors in the zone is on the line as to whether they can deliver their states with

AYODELE OJO

DEPUTY Editor, POLITICS ayodele.ojo@newtelegraphonline.com

Buhari

a satisfactory percentage or not. For example, in Ondo State, the defection of Governor Olusegun Mimiko from the Labour Party (LP) to the PDP has caused disaffection within the ranks of both parties and if not checked, may affect the fortunes of the governor’s newly adopted party. The Lagos burden With an estimated 5,822,207 registered voters, the highest in the country, no doubt, the Centre of Excellence is poised to be the cynosure of all attention in the polls. In 2011, there were reports of compromise between the PDP and the now defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) for the presidential election in Lagos, but the 2015 election presents a different scenario as both parties are expected to display their potential at the political market-place of the electorate and as such, it is expected to be a crowded fight. For the PDP in Lagos, the hangover of the governorship primaries in the state almost rocked the party’s boat, but for the quick intervention of the presidency. Erstwhile Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, was already charging up to challenge the election of the party’s governorship candidate, Jimi Agbaje, before President Goodluck Jonathan summoned

Jonathan REGISTERED VOTERS IN SOUTH-WEST

INDEP ELECT ENDENT NAT ORAL C IO OMMIS NAL SION

Lagos

5,822,207

Oyo

2,415,566

Ogun

1,829,534

Ondo

1,524,655

Osun

1,407,107

Ekiti

732,021

Total number of registered voters in SouthWest: 13,731,090 representing 19.9% Total number of registered voters nationwide: 68,833,476

With the different contradictions playing out within the parties... the outcome of the election might be determined by factors outside holding the control of the state

and prevailed on him to withdraw his case from the Federal Court in Abuja. Already, there are insinuations that he was appeased with a gentleman’s agreement of a ministerial slot. Though pundits described the brokered truce by the presidency among the PDP gladiators as peace of a graveyard, owing to the absence of the major figures at the parley including Chief Olabode George and Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, among others, it is also being insinuated in some quarters that the ego war between the Obanikoro camp and the George’s Network Group may be the Achilles heel of the party in both the presidential and governorship elections in the state. By and large, the PDP in Lagos is resting more on the popularity

of its candidate, Agbaje, who they believe has enormous goodwill among Lagosians. By the same token, the party is also harping on the influence of George within the core Lagos elites’ circle to propagate the party’s candidates and programmes. As it stands, it might suffice to say that the battle for Lagos governorship stands more on personality check, as against party affiliation, but that of the presidential election appears to be a race full of holes for both the PDP and APC. No doubt, the APC under the influence of the former governor of Lagos State, Senator Bola Tinubu, has in the past 16 years literarily pocketed the opposition. The 2015 election may however, quell the solo run of the party especially with a motivated PDP fuming across the state. After surmounting an initial heat that saw the state governor, Babatunde Fashola moving against Tinubu over his successor, the party seems to be getting its groove back as its governorship candidate, Akinwunmi Ambode, is already enjoying the support of both the governor and other aspirants. Also, the party’s register got jacked up recently when some PDP stalwarts and members moved to the party. On the surface, it appears the CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Politics

Muhammad Kabir, Kano

hairman of the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, has expressed concern over the negative attitudes of politicians towards the forthcoming presidential election. Jega said that he is worried that the desperate action of politicians today, and their do-or-die attitude at winning elections by hook or crook, if not quickly checkmated, poses a serious challenge to the conduct of elections in the country. Jega, who spoke at a conference at Bayero University, Kano, with the theme, “INEC and the 2015 General Elections; Expectations, Prospect and Challenges,” assured that despite the open challenges that threaten the very foundation of the nation’s democratic culture, “we are hell-bent in doing our best, although our best might not be enough, but we will be impartial

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Jega: Politicians, threat to democracy and non-partisan.” He added: “We are doing our very best under the tense circumstances, and Nigerians should know that a good election is not the business of INEC alone, but all other stakeholders should join hands with the commission to ensure that the open threat facing the elections are well checkmated and overcame.” He stated that politicians are strategising, “and we are re-strategising to face them. They are working towards enticing the electoral officials and many other participants in the forthcoming elections, but we are telling them that our eyes are wide open. We are moving towards blocking all available routes of rigging and making the election to fail.” Jega insisted that the commission is ready to conduct elections in the three North Eastern states of Adamawa, Yobe

and Borno that are embroiled in the activities of insurgency. He said the commission had already deviced a very powerful strategy on how it will make sure it captures all the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), “and today we are going to hold meeting on that in Abuja to concretise plans on that,” he said. The INEC chairman urged Nigerians to come out en masse and cast their votes during the elections, adding, that “no matter what people have to come out and vote with integrity and do everything that will avoid political crises. This is so

because election results are not determined by violence or burning of people properties; it is determined by open casting of one’s vote in a free and fair atmosphere.” Jega expressed worry over the negative attitudes of politicians, pointing out that it shows Nigeria is not yet a democratic nation. “We are still struggling to nurture democratic culture after long years of military rule, as such we have to do everything possible to improve the situation and raise the bar,” he said. According to him, “in these elections we have 750,000 ad hoc workers

we are employing, most of them are still universities lecturers, vice chancellors and members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and we have 150,000 voting points to cover.” Earlier, former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mohammed Uwais, cautioned politicians against unnecessarily creating tension, and overheating the polity through their unguided remarks and reckless statements, saying whatever they do, Nigeria would scale through the huddles of 2015 and beyond. Meanwhile, President Goodluck Jonathan has

INDEP ELECT ENDENT NAT ORAL C IO OMMIS NAL SION

said that he has explicit confidence in the ability of Jega in conducting credible, free and fair elections next month. The president stated this yesterday during the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential rally held in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.

Kaduna stands still for Buhari Ibraheem Musa Kaduna

aduna stood still for the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Major General Muhammadu, yesterday as residents of the town abandoned their daily schedules and trooped to the Murtala Mohammed Square venue of the presidential campaign rally as early as 8a.m. Billed to start by 2p.m., Buhari’s aircraft landed at Kaduna airport by 4p.m. from Mina, the Niger State capital but he was unable to arrive the venue of the event till two hours later at 6:25 pm, a journey of 45 minutes. According to reports, supporters lined up the road from the airport to the venue and some even laid down on the road which prevented Buhari’s entourage from passing through until the General addressed them. Buhari, who came in company of Senator Bola Tinubu, the APC national leader, Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State and Malam Nasiru El Rufai, the Kaduna state gubernatorial candidate, addressed the excited crowd at 6:35p.m. Buhari has promised that Nigerians will notice a difference in two years if he is elected the president, in spite of the current challenges that

the country is facing. Buhari, who made this pledge yesterday in Kaduna during his presidential campaign, painted a gloomy picture of the country’s socio-economic and political life in front of a mammoth crowd. Revealing a five-point agenda of improved security, boosting the economy and fight against corruption, Buhari also promised to improve health care and education if elected president of Nigeria. According to the presidential candidate, his main focus will be to improve the lot of the people and the country at large. “I am not seeking the presidency for selfish reasons. There is no position that I have not held. I am pained by how Nigeria is mismanagement and so I can’t sit idly by and watch,” Buhari maintained. The presidential candidate, who reiterated his commitment to democracy, said that he never advocated violence in spite of the fact that he was robbed of his mandate on three occasions. Buhari added that because of his belief in due process, he pursed his mandate in court. “This time around, I am calling on you, come February 14, go out and vote, guard your votes and make sure that you wait until the votes are counted,” Buhari advised.

Niger State Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu (right), presenting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in the state, Alhaji Umar Nasko at a rally in Kontagora …yesterday

Niger deputy gov, PDP leaders defect to APC Dan Atori Minna

he Niger State deputy governor, Hon. Ahmed Musa Ibeto, and over 200 elected and appointed officers of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday decamped to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Ibeto announced his defection while speaking with journalists at his residence in Minna, the state capital. The deputy governor told journalists who gathered in his house as early

as 8:30am that he alongside over 200 leaders from the PDP have decamped to APC. Ibeto hinged his defection on injustice and irreconcilable differences with his former party, saying he owes nobody including Governor Mu’azu Aliyuhis any apologies. According to him, “You (media) are all witnesses to the charade that characterised the PDP governorship primaries. We filed our objection to the primaries up to the national level of the party with the hope for justice, but up till now nothing has been done and we feel we should go to where

we can find justice and fairness. “Over 200 people comprising of serving and former members of National Assembly, State Assembly, former commissioners, former local government chairmen and party leaders across the 25 local government areas of the state are today crossing with me to APC. “We have decided to leave only those who are currently holding positions at local, state and national levels. All our supporters will automatically go with us and you will see all of them at General Muhammdu Bu-

hari’s rally today (Monday). “I am going to APC rally but now I am going to the airport to welcome our leader, General Muhammadu Buhari, who is coming to Niger State today for campaign,” he said. Ibeto had with him Special Adviser on Roads and Infrastructure, Engr. Mohammed Daban and Special Adviser on Legislative Matters, Hon. Ahmed El’Waziri. From the House of Representatives were Hon. Ibrahim Ebbo and Hon. Mohammed Cheche and Hon. Madolia.

Group faults Obasanjo’s claim on PTF probe Wale Elegbede

group, Integrity and Justice Forum has condemned the position of former President Olusegun Obasanjo on the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF). The groups said Obasanjo should not trivialise a major issue of probity and accountability in

government. Addressing a press conference on behalf of Integrity and Justice Forum in Lagos, Mr. Ayo Fadaka said the theft and mismanagement of over N25 billion oil money at a time when Nigerians were made to pay through their noses for petroleum products cannot be described as “mere discrep-

ancies.” According to the groups, “We assert that the findings of the Haroun Adamu committee were more than just mere “discrepancies” as former President Obasanjo would have Nigerians believe.” “We submit that these germane issues of probity and accountability

do not and can never fall into the category of “mere discrepancies” for which a bedroom talk could absolve the retired General,” he said. “We see this posturing by the Chief Obasanjo as a desperate desire to coverup for his preferred candidate in the forthcoming presidential election and hereby condemn such.”

Politics 15

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Buhari not eligible for presidential election, Fani-Kayode insists Wale Elegbede

he Director of Media and Publicity of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Campaign Organisation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode said the issue surrounding the academic qualifications of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, is a matter of law and not sentiment. Fani-Kayode in a statement yesterday said it is disingenuous for Buhari to say that he contested previous elections and that the issue of his qualifications did not arise, noting that but for the adherence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with the Electoral Act this year, Nigerians would have remained ignorant of the fact that Buhari has probably been submitting affidavits for the past elections. He said: “The fact that he got away with it in 2003, 2007 and 2011 does not make it right. The minimum that Nigerians require from Buhari is the presentation of his secondary school certificate which enabled him to gain admission into the Nigerian Military College in 1962 and on which basis he became a commissioned officer of the

Nigerian Army. “This forms the fulcrum for the subsequent courses that he attended as he rose in the Army, including the U.S. War College. Failure to produce that school certificate implies that Buhari’s entire career in the Army was based on falsehood which cannot stand. This brings to question the admission system/policy into the Army in the early 1960s. “Were the rules bent for certain individuals in fulfilment of the quota system? Anyone that reads General Alabi Isa-

ma’s book which was published last year will know that this was the case. In fact, Alabi Isama went as far as to allege that some Nigerians were admitted into the military academy without the necessary qualifications like school certificate.” Drawing an allusion from Isama’s allegation, the former Aviation Minister noted that: “We believe that Buhari was one of those people and this is why he is unable to produce his certificate. The truth is that he was never qualified for entry

INDEP ELECT ENDENT NAT ORAL C IO OMMIS NAL SION

into the Military Academy in the first place and consequently he should never have become a commissioned officer let alone a man that rose to the rank of General. At

best, he ought to have remained a non-commissioned officer. “As long as he cannot produce that secondary school certificate, we believe that he is not qualified to run for the Presidency of Nigeria. This is a matter of law and not sentiment. Buhari, just like any other Nigerian, must be compelled to abide by the law and he must prove his eligibility for the Presidential election by simply producing his secondary school certificate,” FaniKayode said.

L-R: Imam, Mainland Mosque, Alhaji Sabit Lawal; former Dean, Faculty of Arts, Lagos State University, Prof. Tajudeen Gbadamosi; Lagos State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode and his running mate, Dr. Idiat Adebule, at a prayer organised by Lagos Muslim Community.

Fashola: President, PDP afraid of APC’s popularity Temitope Ogunbanke and Muritala Ayinla

agos State Governor, Mr Babatunde Fashola yesterday took a swipe at President Goodluck Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the demonisation of the APC presidential candidate, Major General Muhammadu Buhari. Fashola said after rigging the former Head of State out in the previous elections, the ruling party have come out with series of allegations and condemnations. Fashola spoke yesterday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally at Oworosoki area of the state. The governor argued that Buhari was the only presidential candidate of the party that stood at the convention venue for over 24 hours, saying that it would not have been

possible if the man was not hale and hearty as rumoured by the ruling party. Fashola added: “They have rigged him for three times in the previous elections, but in all those elections they never said he had no certificates. Now that they see that he is going to win, they said he doesn’t have certificates. Tomorrow they will say he is sick. Who is sick among them? “Buhari’s body is made of steel. He doesn’t drink before he speaks, we know

those people that when they represent us abroad they will not show up when they are called to make a speech. Who is sick among the two?” The governor also accused President Jonathan and his supporters of deliberately terminating the contract of the firms that placed adverts in the state. Also speaking at the event, the APC governorship candidate, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, urged Lagosians to vote for him and other APC candidates in the February 14 and 28

elections, especially the party’s presidential candidate, Buhari. Ambode also promised to do more roads in Lagos State and make life more comfortable for the people of the state. “The PDP candidate in Lagos State should tell them at the centre to release the audit report concerning the subsidy scam; you will be sorry for Nigeria. This is not the time for us to be deceived. “We started it from Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; we

have continued with Babatunde Fashola and God willing, I will take Lagos to the next level. “Lagosians should vote for experience because we don’t want try and error in Lagos. Come February 14, we must vote for Buhari and come February 28, you must vote for APC and vote for me.” Pandemonium broke out at the rally as thugs stabbed themselves at Oworoshonki Playing Ground, venue of the rally, leaving two persons badly injured.

Lamido warns govs against hate campaign Umar Danladi Ado Sokoto

igawa State governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, yesterday warned politicians against using religion to divide Nigeria, advising that issues that promote peace and unity

of the country should be emphasised on. Lamido, who gave the advice in his goodwill message at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential campaign in Sokoto, said the use of religion for selfish reasons by politicians portends danger for the

polity. He also admonished the All Progressives Congress (APC) governors and their supporters, especially those who defected to other parties to desist from abusing the PDP, saying such amounts to abusing themselves because they

belong to the PDP family. Describing Sokoto State as a centre of social justice in line with Islamic injunctions, the Jigawa governor urged the people of the state to abide by the teaching and discipline of Usman Danfodio in solving their political issues.

Kinsmen reject Okorocha Steve Uzoechi Owerri

he second term aspiration of Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State may have suffered a major setback as the people of Orlu senatorial zone where the governor hails from have advised him to forget his re-election bid. The people of the area described his first term as ‘a disappointment to Imo State, particularly Orlu geo-political zone.” A socio-cultural organisation in the area, Orlu Zurumee, who cautioned the governor against dabbling into the gubernatorial race, promised to humiliate him at the poll, if he disregards their warning. According to them, “no man however great is greater than his own people. Okorocha’s second term will be a disaster.” They made their position known when the group’s President-General, Prince Macdonald Akano, paid a courtesy visit to Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, the Chairman of Imo State and South East Councils of Traditional Rulers in Owerri. The Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT) of the Organization, Chief Ray Okoro averred that “Rochas has failed us and there is nothing positive again he can offer Orlu people in particular and Imo people in general.”

RMG to provide insurance cover for observers

Temitope Ogunbanke

ights Monitoring Group (RMG), a coalition of 45 civil society organisations, has concluded arrangements with two leading insurance companies to provide adequate insurance policy cover for all the 13,000 observers to be deployed to monitor the general elections. The National Coordinator of the group, Mr. Olufemi Aduwo, in a statement made available to New Telegraph, assured Nigerians that RMG would give a good account of itself all through the period of the election. RMG, along with 87 local and foreign organisations and foreign missions, were accredited by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to observe the general elections. “Our mission during the exercise is to assess all aspects of the electoral processes, the constitutional and legal framework,” Aduwo stated.

16 Politics

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

South-West as Jonathan, Buhari’s battleground

give up the fight too soon as they anticipate possible slips and fallouts from their opponent days to the election.

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

APC house is tidy, but in politics, only time stands between losers in a race and their silence, especially when compensation and attention are also taken away from them. For once, pundits are still at a loss on what sort of support the likes of Muiz Banire, who openly opposed the emergence of Ambode will give to the party’s flag bearer. Perhaps, the biggest test for the party will be how it will manage the disenchantment of some aggrieved legislative aspirants against the party and its hierarchy. A source told New Telegraph that, “our leaders should watch out and ensure that they appease those who lost out in the legislative race. For example, we need more reconciliation drive among aspirants for the Lagos West Senatorial ticket because many people were disappointed the way the ticket went. Look at how Demola Seriki, Isaac Ajiboso and even Mama Deputy lost out in the race. We must quickly rally all these people and their supporters; otherwise we might get a shocker with Olamilekan Solomon as our candidate.” As it stands, the familiar rivalry between Tinubu and George is expected to play out before, during and after the polls. Both gladiators are expected to lurch their political machineries for the election at both the state and presidential levels. It only remains to be seen, whether the lion of Bourdillion will once again cage the Atona Odua and the PDP. The Osinbajo Challenge If there is any zone that the nomination of Prof. Yemi Osinbajo as the running mate to APC presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) altered its political equation, it is the SouthWest. For once, the body languages of APC leadership prior to the emergence of Osinbajo, indicated that the position may likely go to the South-South zone, a development that, should the APC win the presidential election, would make the South-West automatically present the Senate President. All these conjectures, however fizzled into thin air when Osinbajo was named as Buhari’s running mate. Although Buhari picked Pastor Tunde Bakare as his running mate for the 2011 presidential election, the fiery clergyman could not muster enough votes as he even lost his state to the PDP. However, the scenario is quite different now. Aside the forces that threw Osinbajo up, he has other factors purportedly working to his advantage, different from factors that threw up Bakare in 2011. Aside being a pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), the 54-year-old SAN who is married to a grand-daughter of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, also has the political structure of Tinubu at his behest. Expectedly, the APC leadership must have worked on the assumption that the Osinbajo appeal among the Christian community and the Tinubu influence in the zone would automatically neutralise Jonathan and PDP strategy in the zone. Speaking recently, the chairman of the PDP in Osun State, Al-

Tinubu

haji Gani Olaoluwa said Osinbajo did not have the capability to sway electorate in the South-West to vote for Buhari, saying that the former Lagos Attorney General and his principal have nothing to offer. He said: “Osinbajo is not known in the South-West. He has no impact in the region. We do not know him and our people cannot support a man they don’t know. He cannot make the people of the South-West to vote for the APC candidate.” With both parties still in the field of threats and opportunities before the election, only time will tell whether the South-West will queue behind one of their own and by extension, Buhari or will stick to Jonathan who has repeatedly emphasised the importance of the zone to the development of the country. The 50:50 chance in Oyo In INEC’s voters’ register, Oyo followed Lagos in the number of registered voters. The Pacesetter State has 2,415,566 voters. Interestingly, the centre is not holding for both the APC and the PDP in these states. For pundits, the politics playing out in both states is no longer the usual oneway traffic politicking as different break-up groups and alliances are springing up on a daily basis. In Oyo, the same crisis that hit the APC under Governor Abiola Ajimobi, has erupted in the PDP. While three APC senators called it quits with the party, a former governor, Adebayo Alao-Akala dealt a big blow to the PDP by pitching his tent with the Labour Party (LP) as its governorship candidate. As it stands, the votes in Oyo State will be shared among the APC, PDP, Accord, Social Democratic Party (SDP) and LP, a development that clearly shows that no one single party can claim it has the party in its pocket. Though the Ibadan division may have an edge at the end of the day, how that will turn positive for Jonathan is what pundits are at loss about. Already, the likes of Chief Richard Akinjide, Yekini Adeojo, Elder Wole Oyelese, Lekan Balogun among others have vowed that next month’s election will be a repeat of 2011 where they delivered Oyo State to President Jonathan, it is only left to be seen whether Governor Ajimobi and his party would allow a repeat, or rewrite history

Osinbajo

INDEP ELECT ENDENT NAT ORAL C IO OMMIS NAL SION

Osinbajo is not known in the SouthWest. He has no impact in the region... He cannot make the people of the SouthWest to vote for the APC candidate

in favour of Buhari. For analysts, the beautiful bride in the presidential contest in Oyo state is the governorship candidate of Accord Party, Senator Rashidi Ladoja. It is believed that his signature in favour of either candidate may be the game changer in the state considering the cult-followership he commands across the state, especially in Ibadan, the state capital. The Ogun conundrum The scenario is not different in neighbouring Ogun State as Governor Ibikunle Amosun is under fire from within and without. His former godfather, Aremo Segun Osoba, caused a storm in the party and led three senators, eight House of Representatives members and some state lawmakers out of the APC, including the state deputy governor, Mr. Segun Adesegun. Perhaps, Ogun State is the most trickish for both parties and there is a point to prove especially from the PDP. Ogun State has 1,829,534 registered voters. With the PDP leadership disenchantment with former President Olusegun Obasanjo over his subtle support for the APC as against his former godson, Jonathan, the party wants to have its own pound of flesh on the Owuborn chief. Also, the party is still in the web of its governorship primaries fallout as there are still many aggrieved members in its fold. The likes of former Speaker Dimeji Bankole still feel short-changed by the party’s hierarchy and may likely not be involved in the campaigns. With Buruji Kashamu, former Governor Gbenga Daniel, and Senator Jubril Martins-Kuye, among others on the front lines, for the re-election of Jonathan; the likes of Governor Amosun, Senator Lekan Mustapha and others will battle from all corners to ensure that the Buhari/ Osinbajo tag team sway the votes on February 14. The major conundrum in Ogun will be the direction that Osoba’s SDP will go. With its spread and support base over a short period of time, the SDP, which does not have a presidential candidate is said to be rooting for President Jonathan and this may make the difference between the PDP and APC. For Ogun and Oyo, the calculations are shaky and no party would assume or anticipate an en bloc vote. Thus, the parties won’t

Task before Mimiko in Ondo Not a few believe that the defection of Governor Mimko of Ondo State from the LP to the PDP will solidify the tones of votes expected for the president to win the state. It was initially looking up as planned and Mimiko was even commissioned to be the South-West coordinator of the Goodluck-Sambo campaign, until the festering crisis in the PDP got to a head with the defection of 48 PDP leaders to the APC. The development made the president and his campaign train shelve his plan to campaign in Akure, the Ondo State capital. Among those who left the PDP in anger are a former Ondo Assembly Speaker, Victor Olabimtan, Femi Agagu, a former Chief of Staff to late Governor Segun Agagu, and five former Commissioners in the state, eight former local government chairmen as well as scores of ex-councillors. For the APC, it is getting its groove back after the failed 2012 governorship election crisis, and it is gaining ascendancy by the day. It is only left to be seen whether the party will sustain the momentum and ensure that its presidential candidate gets the best of Jonathan. However, it is believed that Mimiko has the masterstroke to turn tides around in a situation as this, but time is of essence for him. Battle in Ekiti, Osun In Ekiti State, Governor Ayodele Fayose’s fever is a boost for President Jonathan. If there is any state in the South-West the president is sure of carting away necessary votes, it is Ekiti. According to INEC, the state has 732,021 voters on its register. Though the APC will not go down without a good fight, it will only have a sizeable number in areas where people are disenchanted with few months of Fayose’s government but the president could count its chicks in Ekiti before the February election. The weekend reconciliation between APC leadership and member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Bamidele Opeyemi, may boost the chances of Buhari in the state if there is a working arrangement with the June 21 LP governorship candidate. In the 2011 election, the only South-West state that voted against President Jonathan was Osun State. The candidate of the now defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, defeated Jonathan by polling 299, 711 votes against Jonathan’s 188,409 votes, while Buhari had 6, 997 votes. With the PDP in the valley of crisis after losing the August 9, 2014 gubernatorial election, it will be a repeat of the 2011 election and it is expected that the APC will cruise to victory in Osun State. Already, the APC can boast of influence of former members of the PDP in its fold. The defection of former governors Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Isiaka Adeleke from the PDP to the APC, will add additional reinforcement to Buhari’s machinery in the state.

Politics 17

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State seems all out to expose the inadequacies of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) administration of Governor Adams Oshiomhole. CAJETAN MMUTA reports

fortnight ago, the leadership of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State rolled out its war tanks, in a renewed onslaught against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This time, it was far from the usual propaganda and name-calling that has characterised politicking between the ruling and opposition parties in the state. The opposition PDP did not miss its target when it took the battle to the door step of Governor Adams Oshiomhole at the Dennis Osadebay Avenue in Benin City, over the perceived shortcomings of the government of the day. And when it did, there was no doubt that the government and residents of the state were a bit taken aback. The state chairman of the PDP, Chief Dan Orbih, had during a rally organised to welcome defecting APC members to the PDP in Igboubazuwa, headquarters of Ovia South West local government area, warned the presidential candidate of the APC, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), and the party’s national leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to stay away from the state. He alleged that the state’s treasury is depleted anytime both politicians visit the Heart Beat state. Although, the Oshiomhole-led government seemingly took the bitter pills in its stride, and remained completely unscratched by the accusation. The APC members who defected to the PDP at the rally included a former APC coordinator in the council, Comrade Richard Igorigo, Chief Richard Digho and an Ijaw youth leader, Samson Yanbor, who said he left the APC after one of the losers in the party’s House of Representatives primaries in Ovia Federal Constituency was made winner. At the rally, the PDP also solicited for massive votes from the electorate for the re-election bid of President Goodluck Jonathan and other PDP candidates in the general election. Orbih also carpeted the state government, alleging corruption, financial recklessness and wastefulness against its officials. In addition, he accused the government of allegedly commissioning some projects twice. Specifically, Orbih spoke on the recent sixth year anniversary celebration of Governor Oshiomhole. He did not spare a word for the ruling APC and government in the state when he made public two separate vouchers which he claimed emanated from the Edo State Government House with numbers EXT/GOV/

Oshiomhole

Orbi

Tinubu

Edo: PDP, APC draw battle line GHSP/2441/14 and EXT/GOV/ GHSP/2477/14 respectively. According to him, the vouchers were allegedly used to sign out the sum of N76 million and N66 million respectively for the inauguration of projects on November 28 and 29, 2014 in the state. No doubt, Buhari and Tinubu on the invitation of the state government were in the state last year to commission the popular Airport road and Ewohinmi General Hospital which formed part of the projects executed by the administration in the state. According to Orbih, “Governor Oshiomhole sat in his office and signed two vouchers to commission projects on 28th and 29th November. In those vouchers, it was written ‘voucher to commission projects in Edo State by two eminent Nigerians, retired General Muhammadu Buhari and Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.’ In those vouchers, the sum of N76 and N66 million were signed away simply to cut tapes for projects that had earlier been commissioned.” The state PDP chairman questioned, “How else do you define a corrupt governor? How can a government sign away N142 million just for Buhari and Tinubu to come to cut a tape? Never before in the history of this state have we witnessed this level of fraud and misappropriation of public fund. “We are telling Buhari and Tinubu to stay away from Edo State because our accounts are usually emptied to massage their over-bloated ego. What they have shown is that they do not love Edo State,” Orbih declared. Speaking on the forthcoming presidential election, Orbih stated that it was the responsibility of all sons and daughters of the South-South geo-political zone irrespective of their political affiliations, to rally round President Goodluck Jonathan so that he would bring more developments to the zone and the country at large. But reacting, the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Louis Odion, dismissed PDP’s allegation as one borne out of “malice”, and that it is common knowledge that

the opposition would definitely “gnash its deformed teeth in envy.” Odion said: “With Comrade Oshiomhole inaugurating worldclass projects all over Edo State in the last two months, we knew PDP would be gnashing their deformed teeth in envy. But we least expected malice would push them into forging vouchers to back up a shameless lie in their evil desperation to tarnish Oshiomhole’s golden records.” He reminded the PDP that Edo people are never deceived by its popular antics to divert attention on key issues. He also stated that the administration has been prudent in the management of resources accruing to the state from the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) despite the lean allocation from the federation account. The commissioner also lashed at the PDP-controlled government of President Jonathan of owing workers arrears of salaries, and cornering over 52 per cent of the federation account. He commended the state government for not owing its workers. According to the commissioner, “Edo people are not deceived. They know their governor is a very prudent man. That is why even today, whereas PDP-led Federal Government owes workers arrears of salaries despite cornering whopping 52 per cent of the federation account, Edo does not owe its workers. The joke is on Edo PDP.” He continued: “With less than six weeks to the general election, it is very laughable that PDP, rather than show remorse by first apologizing to Edo people for under-developing the state for 10 years, has resorted to peddling fake vouchers for a transaction that exists only in their crooked imagination. It is very cheap, indeed.” It is, however, instructive that the rivalry between forces within the ruling APC administration of Governor Oshiomhole and those of PDP will stop at nothing in throwing brickbats at each other towards the general election. This is a fallout of the recent crisis, and some political misgivings between core eggheads within both camps which analysts say,

INDEP ELECT ENDENT NAT ORAL C IO OMMIS NAL SION

How can a government sign away N142 million just for Buhari and Tinubu to come to cut a tape? Never before in the history of this state have we witnessed this level of fraud

was sparked by a failed attempt of the ruling government to allow for proper rationalization of issues, arising from the contentious party primaries, and subsequent defection of many to the opposition PDP, among other unresolved matters. But the governor has maintained that those that left the APC fold did so for good, so that the ruling party could reorganise itself in the interest of the state. The crisis is also fuelled by President Jonathan’s declaration during his visit to the state last year, that the PDP would take over Edo State during the February elections, and the 2016 gubernatorial polls in the state. But the Oshiomhole-led government has vowed to stop at nothing to sink the PDP permanently. The governor said the massive performance indices of his administration that cut across parts of the three senatorial districts of the state would serve as a punishment option for the PDP, and its leaders at the polls this year and in 2016. Besides, forces within the APC and PDP camps had early last year locked horns in serious battle over the split of the state House of Assembly into two factions with Speaker Uyi Igbe in control of the APC group of 15 lawmakers, while Chief Festus Ebea was in charge of the PDP faction of nine members. The feud among the legislators and chieftains of both parties has lingered irreconcilably as all efforts to bring the warring parties together collapsed. Sadly, the state government seems to be gaining the upper hand with the recent movement of two more PDP lawmakers to join their APC counterparts bringing the number of APC lawmakers to 17 while that of PDP has been depleted to seven. Despite this, the opposition however says it is still determined to bring the ruling party to its knees. As the ferocious battle moves towards the general election with frightening grandstanding on both sides, it is feared that the state may be turned into a theatre of war, as the political actors understand each other’s tricks, and have gone all out to stop the other.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion

A beautiful land with ugly rulers-Buhari on my mind

Janet Fashakin

have read and watched with amusement how all of a sudden we are being told that Muhammadu Buhari, a Muslim fundamentalist to the core will clean up Nigeria and wipe off the Boko Haram insurgency. Those Christians who are dogmatically supporting such nonsense should be careful for when you get your wish, no one can rescue you. Do not hand yourself over on a platter of gold to a group that paid for the sponsorship of Boko Haram while they were in power and who have sworn to not only Islamize Nigeria but determined to govern with the Sharia law where opposition would be slaughtered with impunity. Jonathan is weak but you have freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of association. What is your own contribution to the corruption that pervaded your land??? The worst form of democracy is better any day than the best of a religious fundamentalism. These people have almost overrun the western part of Nigeria, putting themselves in key positions, pretending to be married to "christians," giving "appointments" to uncommitted Christians and atheists and cladenstanlly planning their moves like a game of chess. Do you know that Muhammadu Buhari clearly challenged Muslims and the government to implement the Sharia law on full scale? Is that not what Boko Haram wants? So why all this noise about his ability to quench Boko Haram insurgency? He will succeed in keeping them quiet (as his soldier) by giving them what they want and with governmental seal, Nigeria would be another Sudan, Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia and all those nations where Nigerian funds have been used to train the Boko Harams and where practising and uncompromising christians get beheaded. Is that your wish people? In a speech, which he delivered at a seminar organized by the Supreme Council of Sharia in Nigeria, August 2001, the retired general said: “I will continue to show openly and inside me the total commitment to the Sharia movement that is sweeping all over Nigeria… God willing, we will not stop the agitation for the total implementation of the Sharia in the country.” Has he recanted that statement? Even if he did, it meant nothing- he has expressed his desire at a place where he felt comfortable. Are you saying that does not matter and we should just make him our

president regardless??? Onigbagbo eronu o!!! So much for religion tolerance- I don't know what kind of kool aid my people drank that made them forget the arrests of pastors who dared use microphones in their places of worship during the Buhari regime. As to his ability to bring discipline-What discipline did he exercise when his govt banned children below the age of 14 from going to Mecca, yet his deputy's 14 year old was elevated above the millions of other 14 year olds in Nigeria and allowed to go to Mecca? On his ability to be fair and not be tribalistic: Where was that judgment when his government upon taking over in a "bloodless coup", imprisoned for years and under horrible conditions, Vice President Alex Ekwueme an Igbo while Buhari put Shehu Shagari the President that was torpedoed under house arrest. Why? He is an Hausa. The excuse that Shagari was near death held no water then and Shagari has not died till today. Buhari practiced tribalism and had the barrel of gun to silence. No one who would complain. The fear of Buhari's torture was the beginning of wisdom. On his love for justice: What justice did he uphold when he made Decree 20, a retroactive law used to execute Ben Ogedengbe, Akanni Ojuolape and Barth Owoh over an offence that did not carry death penalty at time of commission? He touted the promotion of Nigeriamade products and banned the importation of hot drinks when it was no brainer that under his nose, official jets were being used to bring foreign gins to their officers mess. You guys are touting him as someone who would bring discipline because of WAI-I laugh. Theirs was always one law for the common people and another for those close to thm. Have you guys forgotten so soon the issue of the Emir of Gwandu and the 53 suitcases saga which arose in 1984 during the currency exchange exercise ordered by his military junta that every case arriving the country should be inspected irrespective of the status of the person behind such. The Emir who was the father of Buhari's ADC Mustapha Jokolo came in with 53 suitcases (of naira) that the soldiers did not allow the custom to inspect. Buhari's explanation that the emir came when someone else came and that each had a suitcase with their 15 children only buttressed that he had 'sacred cows. The order was open and

check every luggage notwithstanding who came in with them. So why were those luggages not checked? Atiku who was the then head of custom said that his men told him that the soldiers who came with Jokolo threatened a shoot out should any of them touch any of the luggages. So much for discipline! Have you guys also forgotten the role of Buhari's NSO and their terroristic acts. I remembered one afternoon when a presenter of a popular Yoruba question and answer TV programme ("En ba laya" or so) sarcastically said to a guest who gave a wrong answer as "Idiagbon" said "Idiagbon ko idiope ni" he was stopped mid program and arrested. His crime-he disrespected the second in command Tunde Idiagbon's name. Is that the kind of country that we want? Not me!. Freedom of speech: May be the doctors families during Buhari's era may have forgotten how one doctor after the other was been thrown in jail for criticising his governmentt over lack of medicine in the hospitals when it was one of the reasons used for chasing away. Shagari's government. I was married to a medical doctor who was the Secretary of the doctors in Ife Ijesa. I remembered running helter skelter at being informed by the ambulance driver sent by our then Medical Director (God bless Professor Makanjuola and all his) that the NSO had come for Dr. Fashakin and that we should go into a hiding. I was eight months pregnant in 1985 with my now attorney daughter when I ran like an Olympic runner to escape the wrath of the saddist ruler who wanted to wipe off the face of the earth all elites and their families that dared to criticize their government. We are part of the lucky ones that escaped to England upon finding the opportunity from where we came to America and are today refered to as the "diasporans." Many doctors were not so lucky in that they were caught (during ward rounds or in their clinics) and thrown in jail, some even died in jail. Buhari created the exodus of the best of the best medical doctors from Nigeria. As bad as anyone may think Ibrahim Banbagida was, he with his then friend Chief Moshood Abiola helped many of the doctors to escape out of Nigeria from the wrath of Buhari and Idiagbon. • Fashakin sent in this piece from the United States of America.

Desperate godfatherism in Nigerian politics Emeka Johnson

t is incontrovertible that most of the outstanding arrowheads in the All Progressive congress (APC) are aggrieved politicians who were nudged out of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) ‘juicy’ umbrella. I assume that the big umbrella got filled up such that new entrants had to squeeze in with renewed vigour and began to displace those who are at the fringes without a hold at the stick or the handle. Having made every effort to struggle back into the scrumptious umbrella without success, the aggrieved politicians decided to embrace the opposition APC broom, maliciously perforate the umbrella and sweep off the debris. By this, all those sheltered by the ‘almighty’ umbrella would lose the ever-flowing yummy they had ever enjoyed. Expectedly, the men and women with the broom gleefully received them and brandished the broom with which to sweep the debris of the expected-to-soon collapse umbrella. They, in addition, now sermonise about the evil of corruption and the wickedness of enjoying the ‘national cake’ alone, without the rest of Nigerians. Then, I ask, would they

have sung the same song, had they got space under the ‘juicy’umbrella? I doubt! These politicians are all the same, irrespective of political leaning. Therefore, all those desperate politicians in APC cannot and should not be tolerated in Nigerian political terrain. The conflict arising from godfatherism has become one of the greatest problems facing the Nigerian political system. The consequence is that holders of the political positions become a stooge as may be the case of the APC vice presidential candidate who was allegedly handpicked by the national leader of the party. The issue of Godfatherism in Nigeria politics is as a result of societal decay which has encroached into all spheres of the polity . The so called godfathers in recent times have shown how they can manipulate and single handedly hold to ransom a nation with a grip of a perpetual dictator. In Lagos state for example, many have over the years, held the notion that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s godfatherism is more akin to that of unscrupulous mafia dons. I believe Nigerians should not be fooled by the antics of these desperate folks, they have been directly and indirectly associated with ethnic politics in

Nigeria, which will further deepen and throw our dear nation into unprecedented calamity. Because of the powers and illegitimate wealth they have amassed as dictators , they possess powers that can hold a country to ransom, if they are given the slightest opportunity. My dear country men, we have to keep the likes of these people out of Aso Rock come 2015. Nigeria has no saviour yet! The godfather doesn’t have two heads, a mighty arm, a magical stick nor does he have a wand. He has probably no fine face, nor the charm that beguiles women; neither will he be your peculiar man. The one in whose time Nigeria will start making positive strides is he who has a wealth of experience, the will, strength, resolve, and guts to champion, lead and inspire change. He will not be drawn or consumed in your daily crucible of ethno-religious hegemony. He will have the track records of excellence, not someone drawn out of the blues to fill a vacant space created by another godfather. Nigeria’s savior/messiah will not be North or South, he will be Nigeria personified. He will be driven by the hunger and will to set things right. To correct the flaws, to rectify the institutions, to inspire change through the system, to

fix our image of corruption, to fix Nigeria no matter whose ox is gored. It happened in Ghana, we have such men here. The question is: will our divisive nature allow him get there? Will he be consumed by our ethnic and religious divisions, our sentiments before he comes out? He will not make promises and renege on them. He won’t promise you heaven on earth. You may not like him. He is not a saint, but he will be the deliverer you expect. What to do: study his past and check his history. He’ll be moved by the afflictions of the common man. He will be down to earth. A breed without greed. He will have realistic plans and pragmatic enough to tackle our problems gradually. Nigeria needs an honest man who will take the people above the party; whose allegiance will be to uplift the people out of the trenches of poverty right into abundance, where they truly deserve to be. On this generation lies enormous responsibility to fix the sinking titanic called Nigeria. On this generation lies the onus to be sensitive, beyond the critical appraisal of “WE NEED A PERFECT MAN”. In the present crop of those who aspire to fix Nigeria, THERE ARE NO SAINTS. To deny this is to live in delusion. Vote Wisely! • Johnson writes from Lagos, Nigeria

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

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Lessons from the Paris terror attacks

or three days beginning from January 7 to 9, France had a dose of what has become a global problem when three terrorists -Cherif and Said Kouachi and Amedy Coulibaly- carried out ferocious attacks killing 17 people in between them in Paris. Cherif and his brother, Said, killed 12 people at the satire magazine Charlie Hebdo office. The next day, a French policewoman was gunned down by Coulibaly. And on the third and final day, Coulibaly seized a Jewish grocery and killed four hostages. The three terrorists were eventually killed by the French security agents. Expectedly, for the three days that the standoff lasted, Paris was in the news. International media organisations feasted on the heinous crime perpetrated by the young men and equally gave conspicuous spaces to the triumph of good over evil when the terrorists were killed. They also promoted the need for humanity to work in unison against terrorism. This, perhaps, explains why more than one million people including 40 world leaders participated in a march between Place de la Republique and Palace de la Nation to honour the victims of the monstrous attacks on January 11. Even belligerent neigbours – Ukraine and Russia put aside their bellicosity and took part in the gathering described as unprec-

According to a report released last week by the Internally Displaced Monitoring Centre (IDMC) and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), Nigeria has 3.3 million persons displaced by conflict – the highest number in Africa edented in the annals of France. Momentarily, Paris was “the capital of the world.” The Paris march resonated in different parts of the world. For instance in Europe, about 3,000 people reportedly converged on Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, 1,000 people gathered in London’s Trafalgar Square, 25,000 people marched in Montreal, Canada, while hundreds staged rallies in places like Beirut, Jerusalem, West Bank among others. France did not walk alone. It was its gratifying moment. Ironically, a similar attack with more casualties took place in Baga, a town in Borno State, NorthEast of Nigeria, the same week as France’s. Yet, Nigeria could not garner such overwhelming show of solidarity or something close

to what France enjoyed. Although the death toll in Baga was put at 150, there are insinuations that the figure could be as high as 2,000. Unfortunately, there is no independent verification on the actual number of people killed as Boko Haram insurgents are in absolute control of the town. The only available evidence is satellite images which showed that the town “was almost wiped off the map” and perhaps the implied description of the disaster by Amnesty International as Boko Haram’s “deadliest act.” Nigerians are angry and are beginning to ask: ‘If France, why not Nigeria?’ Already, the hashtag #IamBaga, a variation of #JeeSuisCharlie has gone viral on social media as a way of calling the international community’s attention to the massacre in Baga. According to a report released last week by the Internally Displaced Monitoring Centre (IDMC) and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), Nigeria has 3.3 million persons displaced by conflict – the highest number in Africa. The report tagged, ‘Global Overview 2014: people internally displaced by conflict and violence,’ states that of the 3.3 million, 470,500 individuals were displaced in 2013 alone. On a global scale, Nigeria is only ranked behind Syria with 6.5 million IDPs and Colombia with 5.7 million IDPs. “Violence, abuses, and forced evictions all add to the conflict-mix

in many of these situations, while in places such as Nigeria we see how challenging life becomes for those already displaced by conflict when they are struck down again by severe floods and storms,” Director of IDMC, Alfredo Zamudio, says. The report attributes the astronomical figure in IDPs in Nigeria last year by the increased number of Boko Haram attacks, heavyhanded counter insurgency operations, and ongoing inter-communal violence in various communities. The frightening figure of IDPs is an indication that the world can no longer pretend as if insurgency is Nigeria’s problem and as such it should be able to solve it all alone. It is evident that the problem is beyond the Nigerian government as can be seen its lethargic approaches to the burning issue. The case of the over 200 missing Chibok schoolgirls is still an embarrassment. Whether terrorism occurs in a remote village in Pakistan, a hamlet in Cameroon, a relatively unknown community in China or a cosmopolitan city like New York, we make bold to say that terrorism is a global problem that requires global solution. Nigeria has been sitting on a keg of gunpowder for long and the world needs not wait for it to explode before coming to its rescue. The mistake the international community made in Rwanda should not be allowed to repeat itself.

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Politics

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Reps, INEC plan for displaced persons PHILIP NYAM examines the efforts of the House of Representatives and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in making sure that Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are not disenfranchised in the forthcoming elections

few weeks to the February general election, the House of Representatives last week took a major step to ensure that Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)

from the North-East geopolitical zone are made to exercise their franchise. The North-East geopolitical zone, particularly Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states have been ravaged by the Boko

Haram insurgency with thousands of residents displaced. The House adopted the report of the Committee on Electoral Matters on “a Bill for an act to further amend the Electoral Act No. 6 of 2010 to ensure a level playing field for all participants in the electoral process and for a more transparent process of conducting elections in Nigeria and for other matters connected therewith.” If this proposed amendment is passed and eventually signed

into law, the IDPs would exercise their voting rights. While reacting to the development, Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Victor Ogene, said the House was “desirous to fast-track the proposed amendment to the Act.” According to him, it was due to this that the House expedited work on the Bill and consequently inaugurated a conference committee to meet with its Senate counterpart during the recess period

and reconcile areas of disagreement. Ogene also disclosed that because of the importance of the Bill, the House will not hesitate to reconvene over the amendment if need be. He insisted that such a move would not amount to waste of time as being perceived, since the law, even if not applicable in the coming elections, would be useful in the future should a similar situation present itself, adding that the House was determined to pull the amendment through.

Before passing this amendment, the House had a day earlier asked INEC to make provision in its elections guidelines allowing all registered voters with either Temporary Voters’ Cards (TVCs) or the Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) cast their votes in the February polls. The House took the decision following the unanimous adoption of a motion by the House Minority Leader, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila (APC, Lagos), under matters of urgent national importance praying the House to direct INEC to include in its election guidelines those with TVCs as being eligible to vote. While presenting the motion, Gbajabiamila submitted that it was becoming worrisome to every discerning Nigerian that some electorate may be disenfranchised in the February 14 and 28 elections unless the House wades into the issue of Nigerians yet to get their PVCs. Gbajabiamila said he was “disturbed that if the current position of the commission (that only voters with the permanent voters’ cards are qualified to vote) is not addressed, many registered and eligible voters will be disenfranchised in the 2015 general election to the detriment of the growth of democracy in Nigeria.” INEC plans for IDPs These actions by the House are coming on the heels of an impending plan by INEC to carve out constituencies for the IDPs. According to the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC chairman, Mr. Kayode Idowu, this is one of the possible options being considered by the task force set up by the commission to ensure that IDPs scattered across the country vote in the February elections. Idowu who disclosed this in a recent television interview also explained that “the possible option was that the safe havens could be carved out as constituencies for IDPs to vote and that such option was constitutional.” State of IDPs As at December 2014, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) stated that from available statistics, there were 981,416 IDPs scattered across the country. The agency said the displaced persons, who were victims of insurgency from the North-East geopolitical zone are presently living in 31 relief camps in different parts of the country.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Film

Echoes of non-violent struggle In remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr.

Arts Kunle Afolayan, Don Jazzy shine CULTURE

at The Sun Awards 2014 A Tony Okuyeme

ctor and filmmaker, Mr. Kunle Afolayan and celebrated songwriter and musician, Mr. Michael Collins Ajereh popularly known as Don Jazzy were among the array of icons honoured on Saturday night at the prestigious The Sun Awards 2014, held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. Initiated and organised by The Sun Publishing Limited, publishers of The Sun newspapers, The Sun Awards 2014 is a celebration of 19 iconic and outstanding Nigerians, who contributed immensely to the socio-economic and political development of the country last year. Ever since the inception of The Sun Man of the Year in 2003, the awards have been tailored to honour distinguished personalities, for exhibiting their will to surpass others and excel in their chosen fields. Again, this year, the awards honoured Nigerian patriots whose public doings have helped to enliven hope for a greater Nigeria. Afolayan won the Nollywood Personality of the Year, while Don Jazzy was honoured as the Creative Person of the Year. The Nollywood Personality of the Year is conferred on that actor, actress, film producer/director who has made the most outstanding contributions to the development of the movie industry in the year under review – 2014. Celebrated as a master story teller, filmmaker, and producer of award-winning films such as Irapada, Figurine, Phone Swap and October 1, which have all turned out box office hits, Afolayan has taken part in many film festivals and won several awards. His latest film October 1, released on October 1, to coincide with the nation’s 54th independence anniversa-

TONY OKUYEME tony.okuyeme@newtelegraphonline.com

Members of the Benue State Council for Arts and Culture performing at The Sun Awards 2014, held on Saturday at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Afolayan’s movies are rich, compelling and inspiring. His productions are in a class of their own, and tell stories in beautiful and arresting manner

ry, gulped more than N200 million. Starring leading actors and actresses of Nollywood, October 1 is a story of love, vengeance and the hypocrisy associated with government and the rule of law. Afolayan’s “movies are rich, compelling and inspiring. His productions are in a class of their own, and tell stories in beautiful and arresting manner,” notes the organisers of the awards. Afolayan thanked the organisers of the awards, the media and the federal government for the support, noting that Project Nollywood Act supported the promotion of October 1.”I dedicate this award to the Nigerian media,” he said.

L-R: Samson, Seun Soyinka, Damola Adeojo, wife of the Olowu of Owu, Olori Bosun Dosunmu, Kunle Afolayan (displaying the award) and Tony Okoroji at The Sun Awards 2014 in Lagos. Photos: Suleiman Husaini

The Creative Person of the Year award is designed to honour Nigerians who have demonstrated unparalleled dexterity and extraordinary imagination in developing original ideas that impacted positively on the country. Don Jazzy is, arguably, one of Nigeria’s “finest songwriters and musicians. Music has, indeed, come to be part of his life. He has produced many blockbuster albums for Nigeria’s leading musicians that include Wande Cole, Darey, Dr. SID, Naeto C, Ikechukwu, Sauce Kid and Tiwa Savage among others. Don Jazzy, the organisers notes, “has not only succeeded in making a strong impact on music loving Nigerians, he has also created an indelible imprint on the Nigerian music scene. Subsequent to the resting of Mo’Hits record label, he moved and successfully established Mavin Records. Since then, Don Jazzy has produced several hits. These uncommon feats are deserving of recognition”. Sokoto State Governor, Aliyu Wamakko won the Man of

the Year award. The award is the ultimate honour bestowed yearly on that man or woman of excellence, a chart-topper who has inspired hopes for a better Nigeria. The 2014 award winners are: The Lifetime Achievement Awards: former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida; Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Tony Anenih; former president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Prof Joe Irukwu,; former Education Minister, Prof Jibril Aminu, and Chief Folake Solanke, first female to be conferred with Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) title. Others are Banker of the Year: Mr. Bisi Onasanya; Manufacturer of the Year: Chief Uzochukwu Uduji, Business Person of the Year: Mr. Ernest Azudialu, Chief Executive Officer, NESTOIL PLC; and Mr. Taiwo Afolabi, chairman, Sifax Group. Other 2014 winners are: Public Service Award: Engr. Eugene Juwah, Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian

Communications Commission (NCC); Mr. Sani Sidi, DirectorGeneral, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA); Hospitality Man of the Year: Mr. Charles Odunukwe; Investor of the Year: Mr. Jim Ovia, Chairman, Zenith Bank Plc; Creative Person of the Year: Don Jazzy; Sportsman of the Year: Blessing Okagbare; Nigerian Hero of the Year: Dr. Stella Adadevoh; Nollywood Personality of the Year: Kunle Afolayan; and Most Supportive First Lady of the Year: Mrs. Yemisi Suswam. The colourful and inspiring awards ceremony held at the highbrow Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, last Sunday, had in attendance dignitaries from various spheres of life, including former head of state, Chief Ernest Shonekan, who was the chairman of the occasion, Speaker of the Federal House of Representative, Hon. Aminu Tanbuwal, former president, General Ibrahim Babangida, who was represented by former Military Governor of Lagos State, Brigadier-General Raji Rasaki (rtd), Sokoto State Governor Aliyu Wamakko, First Lady of Benue State, Mrs. Dooshima Yemisi Suswam, former Education Minister, Prof Jibril Aminu, Chairman of Slok Group and Publisher of The Sun, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu, who was represented by the Vice Chairman of Slok Group, Rev. Emeka Abone, Group Managing Director/ CEO of First Bank, Mr. Bisi Onasanya, Chief Folake Solanke (SAN), Managing Director/Editor-inChief of The Sun Newspapers, Mr. Femi Adeshina, Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of New Telegraph Newspapers, Mr. Eric Osagie among others. Musicians and Nollywood stars who were at the awards include 2Face Idibia, Steph Nora Okeke, Chika Ike among others. Anchored by Gbenga Adeyinka 1 and Helen Paul, the awards was marked with performances by the Vintage band and the US-based Nigerian classical opera singer, actor and poet, Abiodun Koya who thrilled the audience with her mellifluous voice and performance, especially her rendition of “Climb Every MounCONTINUED ON PAGE 21

Arts

Ebere Ameh

he screening of a documentary film titled In Memory of Martin Luther King Jr., at the just concluded Martin Luther King Day which was held last week at the United States Consulate Lagos, again brought to the fore, the life and struggle of the late renowned activist, humanitarian, and leader in the African-American Civil Rights Movement, Martin Luther King Jr, for the emancipation of his people. In what would have been the 86th birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., people from different works of life gathered at the consulate to remember and reflect on the life of this great black man; and lessons Nigerians could learn from his life the nation grapples with elections and quest for good governance. As the documentary, In Memory of Martin Luther King was screened to start of the programme, the life of Martin Luther King made more sense to many of the participants, as can be seen when they shared their thoughts later. Family members, friends, former classmates and advisors of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. relate their memories of the civil rights activist in this moving documentary, which features Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King, Bill Cosby, Jimmy Carter, Jesse Jackson, Dick Gregory, Ralph Abernathy, Desmond Tutu, Edward Kennedy, Julian Bond. “Injustice anywhere threatens justice somewhere,” “the death of any man diminishes me because I am for mankind,” “an eye for an eye makes everyone blind,” “If you don’t overcome the fear of death, you are not free,” were some of the quotes of Martin Luther King, which some of the participants found to be very stirring and relevant for Nigerians to consider. “You can’t give what you don’t have,” one member of the audience said. He built his capacity and spoke with facts. Whatever sector we belong, let us know the facts, let’s say the facts with conviction and passion” he said, noting that the highest office in any country is the office of the citizen. “Civil society is not about fighting the government, it is about collaborating with them for good governance, standing for the truth as we fight for the common good,” another said. For another participant, there is a need for unity of purpose to be able to fight and succeed. “To do what he did, one needs to be focused, one needs to be involved. The journey of nation building is different from the journey of an individual. Though he is six feet down, the struggle continues because did not fight alone,” he said. “He lived for love, he spoke love, acted love and died for love. If you are a leader, you need to have love for your people, love for your nation and love for humanity, not love for your pockets,” one participant shared with so much passion. Touched by the fact that Dr King was a pastor, one participant got piqued by the stance of Nigerian pastors, who instead of fighting for the emancipation of the masses, or encouraging them to fight, preach survivalist messages that make the average Nigerian Christian regrettably docile. “We should not be hoodwinked. Christians and Muslims don’t want to participate in politics and we cede power to gangsters and over the years we complain. What they preach to us is survivalist message, the message Jesus brought was different. We are supposed to be the light of the world. Dr King was so bright that he got into college at 15 years. He used his wisdom and commitment to God to work for the emancipation of his people. We should be open minded enough to see what we can do to alleviate the plight of our people and not let

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Echoes of non-violent struggle In remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr.

Civil society is not about fighting the government, it is about collaborating with them for good governance, standing for the truth as we fight for the common good

religion blindfold us,” he advised. The Public Affairs Officer, Mrs Ronda Watson was on ground to moderate the event. She thanked all the participants, advising that we shun violence and desist from selling our conscience for a paltry sum, thereby mortgaging the future of our children, as the elections draw near. “Everybody is getting apprehensive but we can go out there and start preaching the message of Martin Luther King - the message of non-violent social change. An eye for an eye will surely make everyone blind,” she cautioned. The event which took place on the 15th of January, was also used to launch the Eisenhower leader-

ship lecture series. The alumni of the Eisenhower Fellowship in Nigeria in conjunction with the United States Mission in Nigeria initiated the leadership series to advance the ideals of the prestigious fellowship in the country. With the theme Promoting Citizen’s Leadership, the event, which was in honour of Martin Luther King Jr., took place simultaneously in Abuja and Lagos, with the Lagos audience to join through video conferencing. Speaking at the event the US ambassador to Nigeria, Mr James Entwistle expressed hope that the leadership series will develop into a meaningful, educational, and inspirational se-

ries of events under the simple title, “The Eisenhower Leadership Series”. “We hope this series will be a forum allowing our alumni to share their experiences and wisdom and, by so doing, give back to Nigerian society, particularly the next generation of Nigerian leaders.” Also at the event was the Former governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode John Fayemi, who was the Guest Speaker. Speaking on Promoting Citizens Leadership, Fayemi, among other things, argued that our obsession with political Messianism is undermining our capacity to develop citizens leadership and broad social consensus.

Don Jazzy’s day of glory at The Sun Awards CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

tain” from the Sound of Music. There were also performances by Zakky Azzay. Shonekan commended The Sun Publishing Limited, for organising the awards, noting that each of the awardees deserves to be honoured and truly celebrated. He urged the

recipients of the awards to see it as a challenge to do more, saying, “To whom much is given, much is expected. I see the award as a means of spurring you to do more”. Dr Orji Uzor Kalu, in his remark, told the awardees to see the recognition as a testament of their good works in the country, urging them

Don Jazzy (left), 2face Idibia (middle) at The Sun Awards

not to relent in doing more. The former Governor of Abia State, who was represented by the Vice Chairman of Slok Group, Rev. Emeka Abone, thanked the readers of The Sun Newspapers for their choice of the paper above others. Kalu also thanked the management of The Sun for keeping the flag flying and charged them and the editorial team to keep The Sun shining by presenting fair, balanced and objective reports to the readers. Earlier, in his welcome address, the Managing Director/ Editor-Chief of The Sun Newspapers, Mr. Femi Adeshina thanked the guests and recipients for their presence. He explained that the awards is usually held in February of every year since inception but that it had to be moved to January because of the elections. This year’s award ceremony is the 12th in the series, the first having been held in 2003, with Otunba Mike Adenuga, Chairman, Globacom, as the maiden The Sun Man of the Year winner.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Interview

Pollution

Dankwambo has changed the face of education in Gombe, says Commissioner

UNN, scholars move to curb noise pollution

25&26

Education

Okoye, fashion designer, emerges NOUN’s best graduating student EXCELLENCE

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has offered automatic employment to its first set of First Class graduates.

Kayode Olanrewaju

“W

hatever I achieved today, I owe it to my husband, who believes so much in me and my ability. It has not been easy coping with my studies and house needs, but my husband was there for me and he stood by me. He took over the role of the house as a father, husband and mother, taking care of our five children. I will forever be grateful to him.” In fact, these were the words of Antonia Okoye, 43 during the fourth graduation ceremony of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) for 2015 academic session, where she was the cynosure of all eyes for leading the pack as the overall best graduating student of her set. The Main Exhibition Hall of the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, venue of the ceremony, was aglow with thunderous ovation when the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Vincent Tenebe announced Okoye’s name as the overall best graduating student. At the ceremony were top government functionaries, diplomatic corps members, traditional and religious leaders, captains of industry as well as parents. Okoye, one of the two first-

KAYODE OLANREWAJU EDITOR, EDUCATION

kayode olanrewaju@ newtelegraphonline.com

Okoye

ever First Class graduates to be produced by the Open Distance Learning (ODL) institution, stood tall as she mounted the podium to present her valedictory speech on behalf of her colleagues. For emerging as the best overall graduating students, the graduate of Peace and Conflict Resolution was offered automatic employment by the university as Graduate Assistant. Okoye, a fashion designer recalled how her husband obtained the university’s admission forms for her in 2011, and encouraged her to pursue a course of study at the Wuse II Study Centre of the university. While narrating her ordeal and how she was frustrated out of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) few years ago, she said: “After my secondary school education in Surulere, Lagos, I was admitted into YABATECH to study Accounting. As a brilliant student some students were copying my work during exami-

...I became more attached to my fashion designing profession and family, but my husband has a strong passion for me to acquire university education because of his belief in my ability

PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

nation and unfortunately for me, we were caught by the examiners for examination malpractice and I was sanctioned by the Examination Disciplinary Committee to lose a session. I became frustrated and I withdrew from the school. “Throughout my secondary school education I never came second. I was always in the first position. My dream was to become a doctor. I later secured an admission into the University of Lagos (UNILAG), but there was no money to pursue my ambition. Again, I was admitted into University of Abuja, but by that time I was already married and under child labour and so I lost that admission. “Since then I became more attached to my fashion designing profession and family, buy my husband has a strong passion for me to acquire university education because of his belief in my ability. So, he did everything possible to encourage me. That was how I got myself enrolled in

NOUN and I am happy that I have fulfilled my age-long dream.” Okoye, who described NOUN as a foremost institution, offering qualitative university education, insisted that the students should see themselves as products of the vision to transform the country and the education system. On how she has been able to cope, she recalled that apart from caring for the children and home, there were other challenges, which most often made life a bit difficult for her in the process of her studies, most especially having left school for long and having to care for five children. For instance, she cited certain situations when her children fell sick during examinations. “But, I thank God all is history,” she recalled, saying the course guide and modules distributed to them as course materials, to a large extent, helped her in her learning and examinations. According to Okoye, she was able to excel because she defined her educational goals and how to achieve them early enough. She, therefore, noted that students should learn how to dream new dream that will shape their future, and work hard towards achieving such goals by being innovative. On the quality of distance learning education offered by NOUN, Okoye said the system of education unlike the conventional university system where students rely solely on their lecturers, ODL prepares students to be more creative and develop skills with which they study on their own. No fewer than 7,000 graduating students including three prisoners received their scrolls for the award of Certificates, Diplomas, Bachelor Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and Honorary Degrees of the university, which was established in 1999 by the Federal Government. The three prisoners were inmates from Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison, Apapa, Lagos and Enugu Prison, who were brought to the ceremony amid tight security by a team of Prison Officials, led by the Deputy Controller of Kirikiri Maximum Prison, Mr. Mojeed Olaniran. CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

Education

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Kano moves to curb child marriage, institutes scholarships Mojeed Alabi

ighteen-year-old Aisha Abba, a Kano State indigine has a big dream. Despite her admission into the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Faculty of Environmental Sciences at the Bells University of Technology (BELLSTECH), Ota, an industrial community of Ogun State, her hope is to become a Dietician, working with multinational companies, where she plans to work on the workers’ diets. Similarly, Buhari Amina, a 20-yearold indigene of the state who has also been admitted into the Department of Biomedical Engineering of the same university, has pledged to excel in the department so as to prove the strength of women. The two ace among other 100 fresh students who are being admitted into the Bells University and sponsored by the Kano State Government, as part of the government’s initiative to tackle the problem of insecurity, poverty and illiteracy impeding the progress of northern part of the country. Basking in the euphoria of their admission penultimate week, during the university’s matriculation ceremony, the young boys and girls, who have just completed their secondary school education, promised to do the state proud by shinning brightest in their studies. Buhari and Abba, as young Hausa girls, have said good bye to early marriage, which they hinted was far from their immediate dream as they also aspire to become great women like their counterparts in the western world. The students, who applauded the Kano State Government for doing well to discourage child marriage, especially among the girl-children noted that the awareness campaign launched by the government was already yielding fruitful results. Amina explained: “Unlike in the past, many of us particularly young girls willingly opted for schooling be-

Aisha and Amina during their matriculation ceremony

cause we have gone through series of sensitization programmes. These campaigns are not limited to us, but also to our parents who are being shown clips of young boys and girls doing very well out there. So, whether you are lettered or not in Kano today, the dream of every parent is to send their children to school regardless of the state of his or her purse.” On the criteria for selecting the students by the state government, 18-year-old Abubakar Umar who attended Dawakin Kudu Science College, Kano, said the process was transparent as every school leaver with minimum required credits in the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) is to write a qualifying examination, and those who passed are offered scholarships into various higher institutions in which the state is currently partnering on the initiative. Umar stressed: “If you consider my case for instance, my parents are traders and I put in for the examination and

upon my success, I was offered the state scholarship.” The Representative of Kano State Government at the ceremony and Deputy Director, Academic Planning in the Ministry of Education, Mr. Musa Gambo, said the initiative was part of the measures put in place by the Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwanso to address major challenges facing the northern region including child marriage, illiteracy, poverty, diseases and insecurity. According to Gambo, the 100 students that were enrolled at BELLSTECH are the third batch of the yearly 100 students being sponsored in the institution, saying for the current batch of the students, the state has set aside N120 million annually for their fees, accommodation and feeding. He explained: “The 300 students we have at the university are not the only students on the state’s scholarship. Annually, 150 students are admitted at the Igbinedon University, Okada while several others are at Crescent Univer-

Ekiti monarchs commend VC over varsity’s growth

kiti monarchs, under their umbrella group, the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers have applauded the Vice-Chancellor of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Prof. Patrick Oladipo Aina and his management team for the improvement of the university in all spheres of its development in the last three years. The monarchs made the commendation during the fact-finding mission to the institution by Council’s Committee on Education, just as the leader of the Committee and the Olomuo of Omuo Ekiti, Oba Noah Adejuwon Omonigbehin said they were impressed by the level of infrastructural development of the university. Oba Omonigehin said: “Things have changed so dramatically in this institution that mere words may not be enough to describe our happiness that our university can now rank among notable universities in the country. We are highly impressed by what we have seen on ground.” He, however, told the Vice-Chancellor and members of his management team that they were at the university on the directive by the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers to observe the development

sity, Abeokuta and Ibrahim Babangida University, Lapai, Niger State, among others. “Several others are pursuing their degrees in higher institutions outside the country, especially for their Masters programme, while at Ibrahim Babangida University alone, the government has spent more than N1 billion because of the high fees. Apart from their fees, the state gives each of the students N25,000 per semester for their upkeep.” On the choice of private universities for the initiative, Gambo noted more than 15,000 students of the state origin are currently at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, alone, while the state has its students in all the public institutions in the state and other neighbouring states. He said it would have been more economical for the state to keep the students at public institutions due to competition, but that the selected private universities were chosen based on their standard and pedigree. Gambo, who said the initiative, was already yielding fruitful results in terms of the re-orientation of the mindset of the people, added that the case of child marriage has been reduced greatly in the state, just as he expressed delight that the students are excelling in their various universities. “I want to inform you that as at today, the best student in Accounting Department is a 300-Level student, who is one of the beneficiaries of the scholarship scheme,” he noted. Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Isaac Adeyemi has advised the fresh intakes to abide by the rules and regulations of the university, saying the institution would provide them every opportunity required by them to excel in their studies. Adeyemi, while giving the breakdown of the matriculating students, said no fewer than 514 students were admitted into the university’s six colleges with the College of Management Sciences having the highest figure of 183 students.

President’s aide advocates support for open varsity system Mojeed Alabi

Oba Omonigbehin (left) and Aina during the visit

in the university particularly at the Col lege of Medicine. Responding, the Vice-Chancellor, expressed delight over the monarchs’ visit even as he explained that 99 per cent of the academic programmes offered by the institution had been accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and that the university was fully prepared and ready for the accreditation of the College of Medicine. The Provost of the College, Prof. Mathew Araoye further explained that the college had been well positioned and developed to the extent

that its accreditation would be a foregone conclusion. However, he appealed to the traditional rulers to intervene on behalf of the university in the adequate funding of the college by the state government, saying “College of Medicine in all ramifications is capital intensive”. The monarchs, who spoke in English and Yoruba, however, lauded the university for what they described as its positive growth, while pledging their readiness to meet Governor Ayodele Fayose on the need to adequately fund the college.

f the Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on Political Affairs, Prof. Rufai Alkali, has his way, well-meaning Nigerians as well as various governmental and nongovernmental institutions should support the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, as the viable solution to the challenge facing many young Nigerians who are unable to access university education. Alkali made the plea at the National Theatre, Lagos while delivering the university’s fourth convocation lecture. The lecturer was entitled: “Open and Distance Learning Education and Democratic Transformation of Nigeria.” The lecture was delivered on his behalf by the former Sports Minister, Prof. Taoheed Adedoja, who expressed the commitment of the Federal Government to the massiffication of education in the country. He said with the involvement of NOUN in the provision of university education to the grassroots, the government has practically democratised access to university education. The lecturer, therefore, appealed to the National Youth Service Corps and the Nigerian Law School, to reconsider their opposition to the existence of the ivory tower by allowing their products to participate in the compulsory one-year programme. The event, was chaired by the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Educational Research Council, NERC, Prof. Godswill Obioma.

Education | Interview

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Dankwambo has changed the face of education in Gombe, says Commissioner Dr. Isa Mohammed Wade is the Commissioner for Higher Education in Gombe State. In this interview with BEN NGWAKWE, he bares his mind on the achievements of Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo in education sector, his transformation agenda in the higher education and the establishment of the State College of Education, among other issues. Excerpts:

What are some of the notable achievements of the state government in the education sector? Well, to start with, when His Excellency, Dr. Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, the Governor of Gombe State, a man who has passion for the development of the state, assumed office he raised a 12-man committee and placed education as a critical factor in the development process of the state. As we all know, education is the basis of every developmental process in any society. Based on his vision and the appointment of a Commissioner for Higher Education, it was clear that the governor wanted to improve the status of higher education of Gombe State. With this we immediately went to work and the fundamental thing we did was the changing of the thinking and perception of the youth in the state in order for them to appreciate and understand that they all have one skill or talent or the other, and that they can make it in life if these skills and talents are properly harnessed and channeled. Also, we made them realise that they can achieve that through education and by changing the kind of life style they were used to before as political thugs, visionless and ambitionless youth. More importantly, we allowed them see the reasons why they needed to change and acquire higher education so that they could become useful members of the society. Though, it was a major task, we were able to achieve that. By and large, we have been able to record substantial improvement in the number of students who are interested in higher education. We have been able to open new vitas for them by encouraging them to become achievers in the society. What are the reforms you introduced? Firstly, we provided opportunity for those who have not been able to make their SSCE (O’ Level) results and those whose

Wade

thinking was to be engaged as political thugs after their secondary school education. We provided a new focus for them through the establishment of Remedial programme. We entered into partnership with the University of Maiduguri on the remedial programme, which runs for two semesters and each of the semester, we admit about 1,000 students. So far, we have admitted 2,000 students who are undertaking remedial programme in Sciences and Arts. We are happy to inform you that the University of Maiduguri has been able to absolve about 80 per cent of the students that graduated from the programme. This has to a large extent, helped many of them and also encouraged the students to further realise that they too could make it in life. When we appraised the situation we realised that the issue of access to education was a critical factor. So, with this we were able to discuss with some universities, and we also established new institutions in order to absolve more students in view of the increasing needs to expand access to education. We also opened other opportunities through the introduction of Marine training, under which we sent some of our students to the Marine Academy, Orum in Akwa Ibom State. Presently, we are partnering

Of course, more students are now interested in the UTME and their population has increased by almost 45 per cent

MASA where we sent about 20 students to India, who have already completed the first part of their training and who are presently in the United Kingdom for programmes in higher degrees in Maritime sector. In order to sustain our efforts and provide a new sense of direction for our teeming youth, the government established the School of Basic and Remedial Studies in Kumo. The school runs three components - normal remedial programme, basic education and entrepreneurship, and skill acquisition training as well as sporting. How much has the government committed so far to the project? The government has spent about N6 billion on the projects. Indeed, we provided opportunities for those who over the years were not able to attend school and those already in the school system. Our hope is that at the end of the day, they would be able to come out with two things – acquire their results, learn a trade or sports – so that they would be able to sustain themselves. In order to provide a holistic approach to the development of the education system, the governor has approved the establishment of the State College of Education at Billiri. The college is to provide training and research in

the field of education. Although, the state has a Federal College of Education, which is technically based and it is providing holistic teacher education in order to meet the need for teachers in our schools. The new state college of education is to take care of basic education in the overall training of teachers. The state also has a polytechnic located at Bajoga, which is about taking off. The college is design to produce middle level manpower and also serve as centre for cement technology research and training for Ashaka Cement Company. In addition, the state has a College of Legal and Islamic Study that is design to produce teachers for the Almajiri schools, as well as provide a career pad, and middle-level manpower for the judiciary in order to strengthening the dispensation of justice in the state and the nation as a whole. We also improved on the conduct of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) which has helped in improving the performance of our candidates in the UTME. Of course, more students are now interested in the UTME and their population has increased by almost 45 per cent. The government has also strengthened science education by encouraging students who want to study science and science-related courses at the ATBU Bauchi Remedial Programme and School of Basic and Remedial programme at Funtuwa under the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria where they are encouraged to study professional courses such as engineering and medicine. The ministry has also been able to strengthen the Gombe State University, especially the College of Medical Sciences, which has been adequately equipped. Based on this, the state has been receiving commendation from the National Universities Commission and the Medical Dental Council of Nigeria. Apart from these, the state government has put in place a rescue mission for our students in the troubled states in the peak of the insurgence. This has gone a long way in helping to change their focus and thinking in terms of the need to pursue higher education. We have also been able to improve the state’s scholarship programme by introducing Tolba Bursary Cards that has helped to reduce the possibility of abuse of the process by making it more convenient especially considering the security challenges in the disbursement of funds to the students. Under the new arrangement, beneficiaries with ATM cards only need to wait for the bank alert for their bursary payment. The new State College of Education at Billiri is being hampered by paucity of funds for its take-off. How far have you been able to adCONTINUED ON PAGE 26

Education

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Edo college old boys honour NBA president, others

ld boys of Edo College, Benin-City under their umbrella group, the Edo College Old Boys Association (ECOBA), Lagos branch, has described the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Augustine Alegeh and other members honoured by the association as worthy products of the college. The Chairman of the association, Mr. Godwin Ize-Iyamu disclosed this during the first meeting of the year of the association which took place in Magodo, Lagos. The Publicity Secretary of the Lagos chapter of the association, Mr. Charles Igbinidu in a statement made available to the New Telegraph, said the Chairman noted that the Association is always very meticulous in choosing members to be honoured yearly. According to him, the criteria used for the selection of members for the association’s honours include integrity, hard work, excellence in various aspects of life and display of positive values inculcated in the old boys by the college.

Chief Aguele (right) receiving his plaque from Prof. Osuide at the dinner

The association during its Annual Dinner and Dance, which took place last month at the Ruby Gardens, Lekki, Lagos, the association honoured the NBA President for excelling

in the legal profession, while other award recipients were the Chairman of Grenigas Limited, Mr. Emmanuel Aguele, an engineer, who was conferred with “The Life Time Achieve-

ment Award,” and the Country Senior Partner for PWC Nigeria, Mr. Uyi Akpata and an Executive Director with Ecobank Plc, Mr. Kingsley Aigbonkhaevbo who were honoured for Out-

‘Dankwambo has changed the face of education’ CO NTINUED FROM PAG E 25

dress this? Well, I don’t know the source of your information and whether it is genuine or a mere story-telling. I think I am an academic who is expected to work on fact and not journalistic statements. Establishment of tertiary institution involves a lot of processes; it is not like setting up primary or secondary school in which you build one block or two blocks of classroom and say okay, you have established primary school or secondary school. It is something outside the regulatory control of the state government. For colleges of education, we have the National Commission for Colleges of Education, which supervises and approves the establishment of the colleges. It involves a lot of procedures and the Commission has regulations for approval and we have to meet those requirements. It is a gradual process. First, the good thing is that the government has decided to establish the college; the second thing is that we have to enact a law for the establishment of the college. We have to acquire land for the project; we have to engage contractors for the construction of the projects; we have to appoint principal officers and we have to write the Commission that this is what we have done so far; and invite them to assess the facilities before they could give us the approval to go ahead with the project. The government has agreed to establish the college, and State Assembly has enacted a law, which the governor had already signed into law. We have approached the community for land, and compensation had been paid. Now, construction work is ongoing in the permanent site of the college. It will interest you to know that some temporary structures had been donated to the college and which the

no cause for fear. Whether it is indigene or non-indigene, we are hoping for the best that will move the university forward as an international centre of excellence.

government had already renovated. Principal officers have been appointed for the college who are now working on the academic brief. That is, the courses to offer and the nature of the programmes. All these things had to be done for the National Commission for Colleges of Education to inspect the structures to see if they met its requirements. There are indications that Gombe State University would soon embroil in crisis of who becomes the new Vice-Chancellor, following the expiration of the tenure of the incumbent, Prof Mahdi, and the agitation of some indigenes. How do you intend to nip this in the bud? Let me put the record straight. Wade First, I wouldn’t know where you got your information and I don’t know what will bring about the crisis. It is a normal thing and tradition for one to leave office and for another to take over. There is no cause for crisis. I don’t know who is talking about crisis. Where is the crisis coming from? Normally, in law, a Vice-Chancellor is to stay for five years and when he completes his five years tenure, there are procedures for engaging a new ViceChancellor. In our case, we have followed that procedure. So, I don’t see anywhere crisis could come in. I think you should withdraw that statement because there is no crisis and nobody has raised any objection to what we are doing because the procedures are well elaborated. Now, it is not only the indigenes that are applying, it is open to everybody and if you feel that you have the capacity you can apply. That is why it is advertised in the national dailies. We want the best for the institution and no matter what, somebody must complete his tenure and somebody has to continue. It is the system that is more important to the institution.

standing Performance Award in their professions. The Director General/CEO of Nimasa, Mr. Ziakede Akpobolokemi, was the keynote speaker at the event. While commending the award recipients, Ize-Iyamu implored them to keep the flag of their alma mater, Edo College, flying, even as he urged the younger ones to emulate their exemplary performance and character. Speaking on some of the achievements of the association, he said: “One of the major goals of ECOBA is to revive educational excellence at Edo College. We are happy to report that in 2014, we financed the re-launch of the annual prizegiving ceremony of the college. Through the generous donation by the members to the Education Fund, an initial sum was invested in which the interests were spent to fund the cash prizes and plaques presented to the best pupil of the college in 11 subjects in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) selected by the association.”

Prof. Mahdi has laid a good foundation; he has established a structure and he has done well. But like any other organisation, if one completes his tenure, he or she must go and we cannot say because of him the whole system should seize to work. People have ideas and that is how development is achieved. So, what we have is that the process is ongoing and there is no problem. Advertisement has been published and people have applied. We have put in place the search committee, selection committee and interview committee, and when they finish their work, they will make their reports known and at the end of the interview, the best three candidates will be shortlisted. We are following due process in our procedure and those shortlisted, will be called for interview. They will be interviewed by a panel of experienced professors, and at the end, the report will be submitted to the university’s Governing Council which will make recommendations to the state government. It is a normal process and there is

How will you rate the state-owned tertiary institutions in terms of quality? The state has four major tertiary institutions that are functional. These are the State University, School of Nursing, School of Health Technology and College of Education, which is about to take off. We also have the State Polytechnic, Bajoga which is also about to take off. So far, so good, the system has been running and you can see that they are well managed to an extent that we have not experienced any crisis. There is good labour relation and industrial harmony in our schools. Our institutions never embarked on strike except the solidarity strike with their national bodies of their unions. The institutions have been able to sustain stable academic calendar and we want to commend their management, workers, students as well as the entire people of the Gombe State, and specifically the state government. What is your reaction to the poor SSCE results released by WAEC recently? In case of Gombe State, Governor Dankwambo has embarked on various transformation agenda, improvement and changes in the secondary and basic education in the state. I strongly believe that in the next two years, we hope to experience some monumental changes in that area. Presently, we have begun to experience this manifesting in the students’ performance. We recorded about 60 per cent in the performance of our children which is better than what it used to be before Governor Dankwambo assumed office. That shows that there is hope and that we are on the right course. We hope other states should also commit their resources towards addressing the problems of education so that in the next two years, we will begin to witness improved performance.

Education | Campus

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Adeboye, others give UI zoological garden a facelift Kayode Olanrewaju

hree years after the famous Zoological Garden of the University of Ibadan (UI) was devastated by a heavy downpour in August 2013, the garden is now wearing a new look. Thanks to the efforts of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Adewole and numerous donations from some well-meaning Nigerians, including the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, who donated N45 million towards reviving the garden. The upgraded and rehabilitated Zoological Garden, which had in the last three years been inactive, was inaugurated last week by Pastor Adeboye. The university’s Director of Public Communication, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo, who described the garden as “National treasure” said the August 2013 disaster would remain memorable in the history of the university. “But, the university community is happy that the academic and recreational tourism no long exists in vacuum as the university management and other wildlife lovers have risen to support what could be regarded as a “national treasure,” he said. While commending the commitment of the Vice-Chancellor, towards the rehabilitation of the facility, he noted that his personal monitoring of the project on a daily basis to en-

sure that the contractors handling the project deliver quality job to specification would ever remain a reference point. Established in 1948, the Zoo is designed primarily to support teaching and research in the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science. But, as animal collection grew in number, it became a full-fledged zoo in 1974, with an array of visitors and tourists, who from all walks of life, far and near visit the garden frequently. Apart from displaying animals for teaching, research and the entertainment of patrons, the Zoo is for the conservation of endangered species with a view to saving or preserving them from extinction. The garden, which is a home to a wide array of animals comprising mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, according to Oladejo received a boost with the appointment of Dr. Olajumoke Morenikeji, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Zoology in the Faculty of Science on September 20, 2010 as Acting Director. He recalled how the Director attracted high profile individuals and corporate organisations to the Zoo for a life-long relationship in the effort to revive it. The effort, according to him, focused on reclaiming the glory of the recreational facilities with some prominent individuals including the Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, who paid a working visit for on-the-spot assessment

Pastor Adeboye

of the newly-improved garden. The governor, while lauding the management for what he described as “wonderful initiative,” he insisted that “the visit afforded him the opportunity to realise that both UI and Oyo State Government are on the same page in the provision of functional and world-class tourist centres in the state as he is vigorously giving the moribund Agodi Gardens a facelift.” Oladejo recalled how former President Olusegun Obasanjo praised the university during one of his visits to the Zoo on the invitation Dr. Morenikeji. Towards the rehabilitation of the Zoo, he explained that Pastor Adeboye donated N45 million to the Zoo in three tranches (N5 million, N20 million and N20 million) to actu-

alise the university’s dream of building an Educational Unit where children and adults could acquire more information about animals existing in and outside the zoo. He said the money was spent based on the new architectural design prepared by the Director for the Zoo, which include building of modern cages, children zoo, upgrading of facilities, sit-outs, walkways, playgrounds, as well as acquisition of more animals. According to the Director, some eminent Nigerians and companies that contributed to the development of the Garden, which is a tourism legacy, through donation of cash and animals include the late Alhaji Arisekola Alao, who donated a male Lion called Arnold, Mr. Tony Daaboul gave a Lion (Rocky); and Alhaji Boladale Idowu donated a dwarf Crocodile. Others are Mr. Kodi Ogbona, who donated a big Baboon; ACP Egbeyemi donated two Patas Monkeys, while Mr. Adeniyi Oladeinde (Ladsom) donated 10 desktop computers to the new Zoo library, among others, as well as foreigner, who gave $1,000 US Dollars to the Zoo towards its upgrading to international standard. Dr. Morenikeji listed some companies which contributed towards the development of the zoological garden to include Coca-Cola Company which supported the development of the zoo buttery; 7up Bottling Company which helped in the painting of the garden and also supported in setting up of the

buttery, as well as the Nigerian Brewery that has continued to donate feeds for the animals. “There are more than 50 species of birds, snakes and other animals in the zoo, where the animals are provided with natural habitat and world-related experiences,” the Director said, stressing that the teeming visitors to the Zoo will be able to observe the animals in safety, and with leisure, as they could watch them in their interesting habitat. Situated on many acres of land, she hinted that the fully transformed UI Zoo has a large concentration of monkey species. As part of the attraction, Oladejo noted that the front view now looks charming and welcoming to visitors, while it is opened daily to visitors or tourists, with the shops providing wide variety of delicious snacks and drinks. He said: “There are numerous picnic spots located within the Zoo where visitors can satisfactorily relax in the shade of giant trees. More cages have been built and the beautification of the river that flows through the garden has been completed. In place of the former bamboo bridge, there are two concrete bridges linking the two halves of the animal gardens. Ample and secure spaces are available for parking at the main entrance as security personnel are on duty for visitor’s convenience. Each room in the Zoo is well-labelled in order to educate the visitors about animals.”

Academic activities resume at Abia varsity Uchechukwu Amanze ABSU

embers of Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State community has put behind the festivities as academic and administrative activities have resumed fully in the institution. The state university resumed for the 2014/2015 academic session last Monday. When Telegraph Campus visited some of the faculties last week, lectures were on full swing, except fresh students who were still going about with their registration exercise that were yet to commence lectures. Meanwhile, allocation of hostel accommodations to students was ongoing. Kelechi Okorie, a 400-Level student of the Faculty of Law, in a chat with Telegraph Campus said lectures had already commenced in the faculty. “Our faculty, as usual, has started lectures as students are all back from the Christmas and New Year recess,” he noted, saying the fresh students are yet to start, because most of them are still

going about with their registration.” He, however, expressed hope that they will begin lectures this week. When Telegraph Campus visited the Faculty Offices there were indications that fresh and returning students were changing their e-Transacts to receipts, which is part of the procedures for registration. A fresh student from the Department of English and Literature, who gave his name as Uche Emeka, as well as Benjamin Onwubiko from the Department of Medicine and Surgery expressed happiness over resumption of the institution for academic activities. “I have looked forward to this day, since I secured admission into the university in September last year. I am happy that we have finally resumed,” Emeka said. Most of the students who spoke with Telegraph Campus expressed delight over the resumption, which according to them, has availed them another opportunity to re-unite with their course mates, friends and lecturers.

The participants with the VC

UNN, scholars move to curb noise pollution Oladele Oge UNN

orried by the negative impact of noisy and polluted environment, especially through unnecessary sound system and vehicle horning, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has intensified efforts towards curbing the threat to human health. To achieve this, the university organised an international conference tagged: “Sound and Technology: Impact on Health and Environment,” which attracted more than 2,000 scholars from different institutions, who gathered to proffer lasting solutions to the high-level of noise in the society.

The conference was the second in its series to be organised by the Acoustical Society of Nigeria (ASON), an affiliate of the institution’s International Commission for Acoustics. Declaring open the conference, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Benjamin Ozumba, who was represented by his Deputy in charge of Administration, Prof. Edwin Igbokwe, described the conference as a major way to address distraction in “academic circle.” His words: “A noise society is a useless place where no intellectual work or research could be achieved. For instance, a university community that is regarded as a geographical enclosure where the academic activities are being carried out “noise is vices,” and it should be purely a secluded environ-

ment where scholars from all walks of life come to seek knowledge,” he said. According to him, “if noise could be reduced, quality and accurate research outputs and development are guarantee, since nothing meaningful could be achieved in a noisy environment.” Addressing the participants, the National President of the association, Dr. Joy Uguru highlighted some of the significance of the conference to the society, saying one of the areas the programme outlined was the Anatomy of the Ear, which to her is the circular organ lying across the whole of the external auditory canal that acts as a small amplifier particularly for sound within the frequencies of 3,000 and 4, 000 Hz.

Education

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Insecurity hinders take-off of Oyo varsity Sola Adeyemo IBADAN

G L-R: Dr. Mike Okolo, Prof. Elegido and Mr. Frank Wiggle

Zainab Balogun

ew years after it took off as private university running academic programmes at the Postgraduate level, Pan-Atlantic University, Ajah, Lagos has begun undergraduate programmes. The university, last week performed its first ever matriculation ceremony for students at the undergraduate level. No fewer than 86 students took the matriculation oath of the institution at the event, which the management said would mark a significant step in the university’s journey towards becoming a full-service institution of higher learning. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Juan Manuel Elegido, said at the Ajah campus of the university that despite the difficulties, the university, which previously taught only postgraduate programmes, was able to launch its undergraduate programmes at its new campus at

Pan-Atlantic varsity begins undergraduate programmes Ibeju-Lekki in November last year. Elegido explained: “To start off in this new direction, the university has begun with only three programmes and 86 students. This is paying off in terms of the personal attention to the students and quality of lectures for the programmes. It has also helped in the preservation of the university’s culture. One incident which encapsulates this was a student who expressed surprise when a lecturer apologised for being five minutes late to class.” The Vice-Chancellor, who noted that the university had been able to keep to its promise of having at least 15 per cent of its students on scholarship, also spoke about the infrastructural development in the university. Already, he hinted that three

buildings (two students’ hostels and the main gate) had been completed, even as he expressed satisfaction with the quality of facilities put in place by the hostel providers. While saying that the hostels were of very high standards, he pointed out that five other buildings would be completed this year. “These were an 11,000m2 academic complex, three hostel buildings and the main utilities building,” Elegido said, explaining that the utilities building would house the generating sets that are currently providing 24 hours power supply. The Vice-Chancellor, who noted that the university was yet to be connected to the power grid, said there is adequate provision for water treatment plant and the sewage treatment plant.

overnor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has blamed the delay in the take-off of the state’s proposed Technical Education University on the worrisome security situation in the country. The governor, who lamented that arrangement, had already been concluded with the Texas University, United States of America for the institution to commence academic operation last year, with students already admitted, said the worsening security challenges with the abduction of the Chibok girls and kidnapping of foreign nationals put spanners in the partnership. Speaking with New Telegraph, Ajimobi said: “When we came in, we started with the establishment of the Technical Education University. And we set up a committee consisting of past Vice-Chancellors and renowned scholars. We even travelled to the Texas University. We reached an agreement and everything went well. They sent two of their expatriates here, who participated in the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and design of the university.” The governor added: “We went to Lagelu Local Government Area in Egbeda to acquired land in order to kick-start the university project. We decided to use the old site of Ajoda structure. It is a nice place and big enough with infrastructure for the take-off of the university. But, barely few months to its take-off, the Texas University authorities called to express their worries about the security situation in Nigeria with the abduction of the female pupils of Government Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State and kidnappings of foreign nationals.” “They said they would prefer to suspend resumption date and all other activities until they are comfortable with the security situation in the country.”

Delta hails Zenith Bank over N3m school uniforms Dominic Adewole ASABA

elta State Government has lauded the management of the Zenith Bank Plc for keying into its vision and quest to improve quality and redefine access to education in the country. The state government had last year appealed to banking institutions, contractors and other private sector operators, and public spirited individuals in the country to partner the state in providing free school uniforms to pupils of its 10 Model Primary Schools at the cost of N3 million per school. According to the state government, of all the numerous banks and contractors approached under the intervention scheme, only Zenith Bank and Perculiar Ultimate Concerns responded. The administration of Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, was said to have at the wake of his second term in office renovated and rehabilitated

Uduaghan

43 primary and secondary schools across the state, and began the construction of 10 Model Schools. According to the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Mr. Orezi Esievo, the schools are G.R.A Model Primary School, Asaba; Atuwatse II Model Primary School, Warri; Ethiope Model Primary School I and II, Sapele; Igbudu Model Primary School, Warri; Igbogidi Model Primary School, Owvian-Aladja; Mosogar Model Primary School, Mosogar; Eke Model Primary School, Utagba-Og-

be, Kwale; Ozaha Model Primary School, Oleh; Model Primary School, Abigborodo and the Model Primary School, Burutu. “We are most grateful to the Zenith Bank Plc and Perculiar Ultimate Concerns that have since responded. We still call on other public spirited organisations and individuals to assist the state to ensure that the facilities are maintained in good condition over a long period of time,” Esievo said. She said over N2 billion have so far been spent on the construction of the four new state polytechnics located at Sapele, Bomadi, Aboh and Abigborodo, which contract was awarded at the cost of over N4 billion. According to her, the project comprises one college in each of the polytechnics with office complexes for the principal officers, as well as other related structures to facilitate the smooth take off-of the new polytechnics.

Jumoke (3rd left) and other volunteers during the visit

NGO lifts children of Lagos community Sikiru Akinola OAU

he Feminine Care Development Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, has lifted the children of Zion community, a slum in Ajegunle area of Lagos State with gifts. Tagged: “Storm the Slum,” the children numbering more than 100 were entertained with foods, gifts, several games and music. The event, which took place at the water front, featured display by Father Christmas. Unperturbed by the water, broken bottles and the half-buried waste products that littered the untarred and the unplanned community, the children who differed the scorching sun radiated joy

throughout the event. The Project Coordinator, Jumoke Awe said the Foundation decided to take Santa Claus to the slum in order to make the children happy. She said: “Some kids living in the slum cannot afford the luxury of paying to visit a Santa Claus and other fun-filled activities that comes with Christmas for kids. We felt this void should be filled, hence we organised the programme where we treated the children in their hundreds to dance, eating and fun catching.” The Secretary of the community’s Development Association, Mr. A. Ilesanmi expressed gratitude to the foundation, saying the team has indeed put a smile on the faces of the children, and their parents, even as he appealed to the organisation not to be far from the community.

Education

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

‘I owe my education to my husband’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

Olaniran, who prevented two of the inmates at the event from talking to the media for security reasons, said one of the prisoners had already been discharged about two weeks ago, while the other is serving a life sentence. While stressing that the nation’s prisons are reformative, he said Kirikiri Maximum Prison had already produced two graduates during the last year convocation ceremony. He said efforts were on top gear to get the West African Examinations Council’s (WAEC) nod to establish examination centre for the conduct of the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) for the prisoners. One of the graduates, Moshood Oladipupo, who is serving a life sentence, according to Olaniran, had already been deployed to teach at the prison’s secondary school. Olaniran, while saying that the inmates graduated with B.Sc in Business Administration, explained that the study centre at the prison is wellcomputerised, even as he noted that the inmates are given the opportunities to develop themselves. “Currently, we have about 44 students comprising prison inmates and officials at the NOUN Study Centre pursuing one degree or the other. The inmates through our encouragement avail themselves of the opportunity to acquire higher education,” he said. On how their education is funded, the Deputy Controller said they were being sponsored through funding from the prison service and non-governmental organisations. Congratulating the graduating students, and particularly Okoye and her colleague for being the pioneer First Class graduates to be produced by the institution, the Vice-Chancellor announced that the duo had been offered automatic employment. According to Prof. Tenebe, all First Class graduates of the university, who are interested in joining the university, will be offered automatic employment, as members of the academics. “First Class graduates, who wish to join us in our institution, will now become members of our academics,” he said, adding that the students were awarded the university certificates in consonant with its tradition. He said the graduates were found worthy in learning and character,

and therefore inducted into the university’s hall of fame as graduates of NOUN, while urging them to be good ambassadors of the Ivory Tower. The Vice-Chancellor, who enumerated some of the challenges of the university, pointed out that “the acceptability of Open Distance Learning (ODL) as a good method of education has continued to be a major challenge to the university. Tenebe said: “Discrimination of ODL is witnessed not only among the educationally disad-

vantaged and uneducated citizens who feel reluctant to utilise ODL as mode for personal advancement, but also among the elites and professionals.” To this end, he said there is need for strategic advocacy and general enlightenment in order to correct the misgiving. Alluding to the quality of education offered by the university, the ViceChancellor recalled that the Webometric Ranking of World universities, ranked NOUN as 20th out of 132 universities in Nigeria and 172nd out of

1,306 universities in Africa in the July 2014 edition of the ranking. In fact, he said the university has entered into collaborations and academic relationships with many international organisations and universities towards boosting its quality of tuition and research. He listed some of the areas of the partnership to include staff training, research, students’ exchange, conference, online library materials, project supervision and dual certification where necessary.

Meanwhile, as part of efforts to develop ODL and make it accessible to prospective students, Tenebe, however, noted that NOUN study centres have increased over the years from 52 to 62, just as he hinted that more centres are waiting for inauguration across the federation. The Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Julius Okojie, who stood in for the President and Visitor to the university, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, reit-

erated the support of the Federal Government to the institution through injection of more funds and resources. Meanwhile, Okojie noted that the open and distance learning education had become an integral part of the nation’s education system that provides unfettered access to quality education for the teeming qualified candidates seeking university education. He described ODL as the best way in which religious and ethnic crises could be reduced to the barest minimum, saying “if all Nigerians are educated, violence will reduce in the country.”

Education

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

UNILORIN campus journalists harp on violence-free elections

EDUPEACE

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

What is Ubuntu?

A A cross-section of participants at the event

Odeyemi Afis Olawale UNILORIN

ow will the country conduct a free and fair election in this year’s general election and the people’s votes count. This was at the front burner at this year’s annual Fresher’s Oratory Contest organised by the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) chapter of the Union of Campus Journalists. The theme of the contest was: “Party Politics and Democratic Sustenance; 2015 General Election in Focus.” The yearly contest, which was borne out of the desire to actualise and promote good verbal competence and the writing prowess of students, is particularly opened to newly admitted students of the university. The event, which took place at the institution’s Auditorium Basement attracted participants from various faculties including the Faculties of Physical Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Education, Arts, Agricultural Science, Social Sciences, Management sciences and the Faculty of Law. No fewer than nine faculties participated in the preliminary stage of the competition, in which five students each represented their faculties in the grand finale. While declaring the contest open, the Director, Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies of the university Dr. Mahfouz Adedimeji, who doubled as the Staff Adviser of the union, noted: “While examination may not necessarily be a true test of knowledge; in life a winner may not necessarily be the best. Life is itself a competition ground where individuals face challenges on a daily basis and achievement is recorded based on individual effort.” He, however, congratulated the participants for a job well done, saying it requires hard work, diligence and dedi-

cation to be one of the contestants, just as he wished the members of the union a successful outing. During the grand finale, each of the competitors was given five minutes to defend his or her position on the topic. The guest lecturer of the day, Dr. Lukman Saka of the Department of Political Science, in his lecture offered a professional insight into the topic, suggesting ways for peaceful conduct of free and credible general election. He said: “In order to achieve a free, fair and credible election this year, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must be an independent body devoid of impartiality, and which will embark on constructive, but legal ways to conduct credible election, which is crucial to the success of the February 14 general election.” The don advised politicians to see the election as trust which must not be truncated by personal and selfish interest, but rather as a will to deliver justice to the people. According to him, security of the nation should be a collective effort and common objective of all political actors before, during and after the election. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara chapter, Mr. Abdulkareem Abiodun, who represented the Assistant General Secretary of the chapter, Mallam Abubakare Mustapha advised the students to involve in educative programmes rather than in social vices on campus, saying this will go a long in helping them leave the four walls of the institution better than they had come. At the end of the exercise, Victory Evans Emmanuel, an undergraduate from the Faculty of Engineering emerged the overall winner, while Olawuyi Damilola of the Faculty of Education emerged the first runner up, and Ajibade Temidayo of the Department of Physical Sciences came third respectively.

cursory look at our global society aptly reveals that beyond the glitz and glamour of lights and colours, fancy automobiles and trendy gadgets, we are sick from within. I call this “soul sickness”. This soul sickness manifests in hatred, callousness, torture, killings, war and the totality of gross violations of human dignity that we witness among and around us. For us as Africans, our unquestioning attraction to the meretricious values of the foreigners at the expense our salient values, values that used to define us, has led us to the point of damnation that we are. What Y. B. Keats wrote in 1919 remains a compelling reality today as “Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold;” and “Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world.” In Nigeria of today, under the watchful eyes of our unruly rulers, our days are dangerous and our nights are nightmarish. There is plenty, yet there is want; we are rich as a country; yet we are wretched as a people. When I look at how our politicians fight, how they bomb their opponents’ offices, how verbal attacks have become physical attacks, how the young generation only believes that only money matters and values are antiquated, my heart aches as I wonder what the future holds in store for our beleaguered people. I soon came to the realisation that saving today and tomorrow rest on the concept of “ubuntu”. What is “ubuntu”? Mbuntu is a concept in Bantu languages and it is common in the Eastern, Central and Southern Africa. It is a human-oriented conception of peace that is found in many African cultures. It has six components through which it engenders peace at the individual, familial, local/societal, national, regional and global domains. Ubuntu, an uneasy concept to define, is construed by Jannie Malan as meaning, “Every single human being only becomes a true human being by means of relationship with other beings”. It encompasses the philosophy of one for all, all for one. The anti-apartheid cleric, Desmond Tutu, broadens our horizons on how “Ubuntu” means being human and sharing what we have. With reference to others, Tutu said that “Ubuntu” means

We live for one another and without the other, we cease to exist. Live ubuntu; live and let live

“my humanity is caught up, is inextricably bound up, in theirs, we belong to a bundle of life. We say, ‘a person is a person through other people’ (In Xhosa Ubuntu ungamntu ngabanye abantu and in Zulu Umuntu ngumuntu ngabanye). I am human because I belong, I participate, I share. “A person with ubuntu is open and available to others, affirming of others, does not feel threatened that others are able; for he or she has a proper self-assurance that comes with knowing that he or she belongs in a greater whole and is diminished when others are humiliated or diminished, when others are tortured or oppressed, or treated as if they were less than whom they are.” The essence of “Ubuntu”, as Prof. David Francis of the University of Bradford further tells us, “is to promote a culture of peace, tolerance, peaceful coexistence and mutual development”. He notes that it embraces the notion of acknowledgement of guilt, showing of remorse and repentance by the perpetrator of injustice, asking for and receiving forgiveness, and paying compensation or reparation as a prelude for reconciliation and peaceful co-existence. If education is to serve any purpose, it is to serve the purpose of “ubuntu”. If Nigerian leaders were educated in the true sense of the word, they would appreciate that the Government needs the opposition to be kept on its toes so that it would not derail from the path of pursing public good. If Nigerian leaders were to have proper education, they would know that the opposition too needs Government because without Government, there wouldn’t be any entity to oppose and challenge it. We live for one another and without the other, we cease to exist. Live ubuntu; live and let live.

FUTA partners Carnegie Foundation on smart grid tech Mojeed Alabi

he Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) is partnering the Carnegie Foundation towards the deployment of the Smart Grid Technology. The initiative is part of efforts at addressing the country’s developmental challenges and the African continent by extension.

The partnership, which is under the Foundation’s African Diaspora Fellowship Programme (ADF), a scholar fellowship programme for educational projects at African higher education institutions, and offered by the Institute of International Education in partnership with Quinnipiac University (QU), according to the university, is in line with its vision of developing tech-

nological innovations. The collaboration was kick started last week with a workshop on the benefits of the initiative. The workshop was attended by a Visiting Carnegie ADF Scholar from Howard University, United States of America, Prof. James Momoh, who spoke on the theme of the workshop: “Deployment of Smart Grid Technology for National Development.”

Daramola (5th left), Momoh (5th right) and senior academic staff of FUTA after the workshop

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Property

Energy

Aviation

Nigeria’s crude demand to touch decade low –OPEC

Lagos land charges: Experts seek input on apt property values

Are African airlines’ failures aiding foreign dominance?

Business What's news

$18bn power investments suffer as oil price rout retards gas deals The oil price rout rocking global oil and gas industry is already taking a toll on the planned $18 billion power investments in Nigeria, New Telegraph gathered at the weekend.

Cost of refining in Nigeria rises by N67.2bn –Investigation NEW DEALS FG mulls renewal of marine supply contracts to refineries

Bonny to PHRC crude supply pipeline. A source at the PPMC told our correspondent that the contracts between NNPC and marine vessels’ operators, which he said is “moving

close to one year,” was conceived after the collapse in the contracts with the PPMC for products’ supply through the pipelines. “Yes, about N1,200 ($7.52) per barrel is spent to trans-

port crude oil to these refineries through this new special arrangements. In fact, talks are on to renew the contracts with the marine vessel owners CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

Adeola Yusuf

p.32

Men’s luxury goods to hit $110bn in 2019 Global sales of men’s luxury goods are projected to hit $110 billion by 2019, up 36 per cent from $81 billion in 2014, according to Euromonitor International.

p.32

The Business Desk Ayodele Aminu

Deputy Editor (Business)

Bayo Akomolafe

Asst. Editor (Maritime)

Sunday Ojeme

Asst. Editor (Insurance)

Godson Ikoro

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

he Federal Government has spent N67.2 billion ($420 million) on marine crude supply contracts to the three refineries in Nigeria in seven months, investigation by New Telegraph has shown. Two are in Port Harcourt, while the other one is in Warri. This amount, which is the accumulation of N320 million ($2,007,840 million) daily expenditure on crude supply to the facilities through marine vessels, was due to the total collapse of the contracts with the Pipeline and Products Marketing Company (PPMC) for crude transportation through pipelines. Checks by this newspaper revealed that the rise in the cost arose from the transportation of 267,000 barrels of crude to refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri by vessels as a result of the vandalisation of the pipeline network through which the crude could have been delivered to the refineries. Group Executive Director, Refining and Petrochemical of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Gregory Udoh, confirmed in a statement on the NNPC’s website that the supply to the refineries are now done through marine vessels. This, according to him, was bypassing the implacable activities of oil thieves along the

Finance Editor

Chuks Onuanyin Energy

Nnamdi Amadi Reporter

Johnson Adebayo

Asst Production Editor

Kunle Azeez

doption of Nigeria’s country code Top Level Domain (ccTLD), .ng, continues to witness a lull in the public sector as 90 per cent of state governments and their parastatals have not fully embraced the local domain names, New Telegraph has learnt. In effect, only 10 per cent of the state governments have embraced and started using the domain names for official activities.

‘90% state govts yet to embrace .ng domains’ A Director of the Board of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), Mr Akin Connerstone, disclosed this in an exclusive chat with New Telegraph in Lagos at the weekend. NiRA is the regulatory body set up by the National Information Technology Development

Agency (NITDA) to administer the nation’s ccTLD .ng aimed at deepening local content in the Information Technology sector. NiRA had set August last year for all government’s ministries, departments and agenCONTINUED ON PAGE 32

Rates Dashboard

Kunle Azeez

Senior Correspondent

L-R: President, African Paediatric Association and Societies, Dr. Dorothy Esangbedo; Paediatrician and former Head of Department, Paediatrics, LASUTH, Prof. Oluyinka Ogundipe; Marketing Director, West Africa, GSK Consumer Health, Ms. Kerry Alexander and Medical Director, GSK West Africa, Dr. Bode Adesoji, at the launch of GSK’s Panadol Children and Scott’s Emulsion, in Lagos. PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

INFLATION RATE December 2014.........................8% November 2014........................7.9% October 2014............................8.1%

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

EXCHANGE RATE (Parallel as at Jan. 16)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N192 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N293 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N223

l Foreign Reserves – $34.505bn as at 15/01/2015

Source: CBN

EXCHANGE RATE (Official as at Jan. 16)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N169 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N256.22 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N198.48

Business | News

DIP

OPEC’s oil price falls below $42 per barrel

Adeola Yusuf

he oil price rout rocking global oil and gas industry is already taking a toll on the planned $18 billion power investments in Nigeria, New Telegraph gathered at the weekend. The planned investments, which cut across power generation, transmission and distribution, are being planned majorly on various gas projects, on-going and in prospects, in the country. This newspaper, however, learnt that these gas projects are facing a setback following the falling prices of oil and gas at the global market.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

$18bn power investments suffer as oil price rout retards gas deals The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had earlier issued caveat emptor to commercial banks and other lenders on the dire consequences of the falling oil price on loan advances to oil projects. An industry source, who declared that the gas investments are also suffering this fate, added that all these are already having effects on power deals. “When there is no gas to fire thermal plants, the power investments, which is at the tail end of the chain, will also suffer,” he said, adding that the “CBN’s directive, even though is on oil and gas loan advances, is

already affecting power investments and this will be more felt if the oil prices continue to fall.” Many people do not, according to him, know that whatever happens to oil at the global market usually has direct effect on gas. “As at today, the price of gas has also fallen for over $1.48 per metric tonnes in the last few weeks. “The effect is that many gas projects that were planned based on a price above this will naturally suffer. Even though these projects are usually based on longterm plans, the current

price regime has indirect effects on them. “You are aware that the caveat emptor, which the CBN issued to commercial banks on loans for oil projects, also affects gas projects,” he said. The Federal Government, which has privatised the power sector, is banking on the investments of about $18 billion over the next five years to boost the sector. Nigeria with a population of 170 million people currently generates less than 4,000MW of electricity. As at December 21, 2014, power generation

was 3,732.27MW, while 3,666.76MW was sent out, data obtained from the Ministry of Power showed. The country is dwarfed by 13 of its sub-Saharan African counterparts including Kenya, Togo, Senegal, Cameroun and Mozambique in electricity, according to the latest Global Energy Architecture Performance Index. The World Economic Forum report, which was prepared in collaboration with Accenture, ranked Nigeria 114th out of 125 countries. Meanwhile, the price of OPEC basket of 12

crudes at the weekend stood at $41.65 dollars a barrel last Wednesday, compared with $41.50 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The new OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Oriente (Ecuador), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

‘State govts yet to embrace .ng domains’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

cies (MDAs) at all level of governments to migrate their email and websites platforms from foreignbased domain names to .ng domain, to avoid capital flight due to continuous usage of foreign domain names. Connerstone, however, said that while NiRA tried to raise the level of awareness of .ng domain names last year by participating in many activities, both local and international and talking to various governments in Nigeria, “a number of the state governments have only bought into the idea of using .ng, but majority of them are not yet using the domain names

functionally; it is not just about adopting it, it is about using it.” He listed Lagos, Ogun, River states, Abuja and a few others as those who have embraced and are functionally using the .ng domain names. He, however, noted that federal MDAs were fast adopting .ng domain names for official emails and websites, following the efforts of Federal Ministry of Communication Technology to drive local content in the ICT in government. Over 90 per cent of domain names being used in Nigeria, including .com, .uk, .net, among others, are foreign domain names, resulting in annual capital flight of over N600 million.

Refining cost rises CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

including some affiliates of PPMC,” he said. The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, according to the source, is “fully aware of these contracts, which is aimed at cushioning the effects of incessant vandalism of the crude pipelines.” With this arrangement, this N1,200 is spent on a daily average of 267,000 barrels that are being transported to the facilities for refining. Alison-Madueke, it would be recalled, had said at the last conference of the Society of Petroleum Engineers in Lagos, that $7.52 per barrel is spent to transport crude oil by ships due to total failure of pipelines. The refineries have

a combined installed capacity of 445,000 bpd, but only perform at 60 per cent, which is 267,000 barrels per day, according to official figures released by NNPC. Alison-Madueke said in a speech that crude transportation to three state-run refineries is being done by ship in a bid to bypass damaged pipelines. “Due to theft-related vandalism, crude oil supply to our refineries remain constrained, thus affecting uptime and volume. “In order to mitigate this anomaly, the option of crude transportation by marine vessel has been deployed, thereby increasing the operating cost of refining by an additional sum of $7.52 per barrel,” Alison-Madueke said in a speech to the conference.

L-R: Nigerian Idol, Season 4 Winner, Zibili Evelyn (Evelle); Executive Director, Optima Media Group (OMG), Ugochi Pedro; Director, Brands and Experience, Etisalat Nigeria, Enitan Denloye; Nigerian Idol 5 Judge, Yinka Davies; Nigerian Hip Hop Artiste, Olamide Adedeji and Nigerian Idol 5 judge, Dare ‘Art’ Alade, at the media launch of Nigerian Idol Season 5 in Lagos

DEMAND

Men’s luxury growth would continue to outpace that of women

lobal sales of men’s luxury goods are projected to hit $110 billion by 2019, up 36 per cent from $81 billion in 2014, according to Euromonitor International. Euromonitor International is reputed to be the world leader in strategy research for consumer markets. Head of luxury goods at the market research firm, Fflur Roberts, who noted that the appeal of the men’s market is clear, said: “There’s a lot of room for growth, not only globally, but also for Western brands on their home turf.” Roberts, who noted that men’s luxury growth would continue to outpace that of women’s luxury over the next five years, said: “In 2013, the total men’s wear market grew

Men’s luxury goods to hit $110bn in 2019 by roughly five per cent, about one per cent point more than women’s wear.” Over in Europe, several fledgling British brands were ahead of the curve in pursuing the men’s market. Christopher Kane, for one, launched a men’s collection in 2011, followed by Richard Nicoll and Jonathan Saunders in 2012. The same year, high street retailer Jigsaw re-launched its men’s collection after shuttering the line a decade earlier. On the growing potentials of men’s luxury goods, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Michael Kors, John Idol, posited that his firm might have up to 500 men’s stores worldwide over the long term. Idol projected the company’s men’s business would

generate $1 billion in revenue by 2017. Michael Kors is only one of several major women’s wear brands betting on the potential of the men’s market. Late last year, Coach, another American label, reported that sales of men’s bags and accessories were up for the most recent quarter, despite a decrease in overall sales. The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Victor Luis, said its men’s business also aims to generate $1 billion in revenue by 2017. While reacting to the growing business, founder of Sleuth, a brand consultancy, Shireen Jiwan, said: “Breaking out of women’s wear and into men’s seems to help a brand make the leap into lifestyle territory.”

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Energy

NPA lauds NIPCO’s 2014 audit report p.34 SHALE BOOM

Oil slump slows US shale boom Adeola Yusuf

emand for crude oil from Nigeria will fall to its lowest in a decade in 2015, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) said at the weekend amidst worsening oil price rout rocking the global market. OPEC, which said this on its website, maintained that the same fate would befall 11 other members of the organisation. Nigeria, Africa’s biggest crude exporter, is facing a cash crunch following the continued fall in prices of crude, its biggest revenue earner. The collapse in oil prices is also slowing growth in US output, OPEC said, although the slowdown will not prevent an increasing global surplus in 2015 and demand for the exporter group’s oil falling to its lowest in a decade. In a monthly report, OPEC forecast demand for the group’s oil would drop to 28.78 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2015, down 140,000 bpd from its prior estimate and well over one million bpd less than it is currently producing. Oil prices have fallen almost 60 per cent since June, partly because OPEC, in November, decided against cutting output to retain market share against rival suppliers. The rout has put forecasts for the boom in US output in the spotlight. “The steep drop in global oil prices could endanger the marginal barrel’s output from unconventional sources,” OPEC said in the report, written by its economists at the group’s Vienna headquarters. “As drilling subsides due to high costs and a potentially sustained low oil price, production could be expected to follow, possibly late in 2015.” At OPEC’s meeting, top exporter, Saudi Arabia, urged fellow members to combat the growth in supply from competing sources, including US shale, which needs relatively high prices to be economic and has been eroding OPEC’s market share. In the report, OPEC forecast that total US oil supply will average 13.81 million bpd in 2015, up 950,000 bpd from 2014. The growth rate is slower than the 1.05 million bpd expected last month, but the United States is still by far the largest contributor to non-OPEC supply expansion. OPEC is not the only oil forecaster to see a slowdown in US supplies. The US government said last Tuesday that it expects domestic oil output in 2016 to grow by only

Schlumberger mulls 9,000 job cuts p.34

Nigeria’s crude demand to touch decade low –OPEC Sees 2015 supply surplus rising 2.2 percent, the slowest pace in years. Even so, this year’s average demand for OPEC crude is expected to be the lowest since 28.15 million bpd in 2004, us-

ing the December reports published on OPEC’s website each year as a comparison. The lower OPEC demand forecast for 2015, plus a rise in OPEC output in December led

by Iraq, means that the report projects a larger global supply surplus in 2015, without output cuts by OPEC or other producers. With OPEC pumping 30.20

million bpd in December, according to secondary sources cited, the report indicates that there will be a supply surplus of 1.42 million bpd in 2015 and 2.41 million bpd in the first half - more than last month.

The Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Dr. Joseph T. Dawha welcoming the new Managing Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC), Mr. Osagie Okunbor during a courtesy call on him at the NNPC Towers, Abuja by top management of SPDC Nigeria.

CULPRITS

Western Goldfield Group Limited, Dome Minerals Nigeria Limited and Nifex Limited, top culprits’ list Adeola Yusuf

he Federal Government, at the weekend, threatened to clamp down hard on violators of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, as it officially announced the revocation of 44 coal mining licenses. The Mining Cadastre Office, which said this in a statement, noted that 54 coal titles escaped the axe out of a total of 119 initially listed for revocation. Thirteen coal titwles have also, according to the

FG revokes 44 mining leases agency, been relinquished, while four others are still under processing. “The revocation of 44 licenses was based on the companies’ non-compliance with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, dormancy, non-submission of statutory report and non-payment of annual service fees,” the statement read. The notice indicated that the four coal titles of Owkpa Consolidated Mines Limited are still under processing as a result of the unsatisfactory performance “in compliance.” However, Western Goldfield Group Limited, Dome Minerals Nigeria Limited and Nifex Limited, were among the top three on the list whose coal titles have been revoked. Ashakacem Plc, NCC

Okabo Mines Limited, Golden Horsefield Mining Company Limited and 51 others had their coal titles retained for submitting satisfactory reports to the regulatory body. The statement also indicated that the coal titles that were relinquished also submitted satisfactory reports, but explained that the revocation of some coal titles was as a result of unsatisfactory report submitted and inactiveness. Some were also revoked for having defaulted and not submitting report to the regulatory body as required. Director-General, Nigerian Cadastre Office, Abuja, Malam Mohammad Amate, has earlier said that the Nigeria’s mining sector is receiving a boost

as four foreign companies would begin mining of gold and iron ore in the country. Amate said the mining activities of the companies would be carried out in Kebbi, Osun and Kogi states. He added that Mines Geotechniques Nig. Ltd., an Australian firm, and Northern Numero Resources Ltd. from the UK were granted licences to mine gold in Kebbi. The director-general said two other Australian companies; Segilola Nigeria Ltd. and KCM Mining Ltd. would mine gold in Osun and iron ore in Kogi, respectively. The companies had completed exploration programmes in areas approved for them and they would commence actual mining this year, he noted.

Business | Energy

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Schlumberger mulls 9,000 job cuts DIP

Tullow slashes exploration budget to $200 million

chlumberger Ltd, the world’s number one oilfield services provider, said it will cut 9,000 jobs, or about seven per cent of its workforce, as it focuses on controlling costs amid plummeting oil prices. The company said it took charges amounting to $1.77 billion in the fourth quarter including impairment charges related to its seismic business, Venezuela currency devaluation and job cuts. This came as independent energy firm, Tullow Oil, also cut its exploration budget to just $200 million as it battles to respond to the collapse in the price of oil. The company, which revealed this at the weekend, maintained that it would cut its exploration budget to just $200 million this year after spending approximately $1 billion on exploration activities in 2014. In a trading update, Tullow stated that it expects to report revenue for 2014 of $2.2 billion, with gross profit coming in at around $600,000 and pre-tax operating cash flow at $1.5 billion. The fall in the oil price has cost Tullow at least $1.6 billion, it said. The

firm – which is largely focused on Africa – has written off around $400,000 in relation to 2014 exploration activities in Norway, Mauritania and Ethiopia and taken a further impairment charge of $1.2 billion relating to drilling and license costs from prior years. For this year, the firm expects to maintain its capital-spending budget at $1.9 billion, although this will be largely di-

rected at production assets and the commercialisation of existing discoveries. Commenting in a company statement, Tullow’s Chief Executive, Aidan Heavey, said: “Tullow has already taken steps to strengthen the business to adapt to current market conditions. This work will continue during 2015 to ensure the group is in a position to benefit when condition improves. In late 2014, we

materially reduced our 2015 exploration capital expenditure and today announce a further cut to this expenditure to $200 million. We continue to carry out a review of the business to streamline processes and improve efficiencies, which will result in significant longterm cost savings. “We have re-allocated our future capital to focus on delivering highmargin oil production in West Africa, which

will grow significantly to around 100,000 (barrels of oil per day) net to Tullow by the end of 2016 and will generate stable, long-term cash flows for the business. The reduced exploration programmes will predominately focus on a number of high-impact, low-cost exploration opportunities in East Africa.” Oil sector analysts at London-based investment bank, Westhouse Securities, noted that

L-R: Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi, receiving the papers of the donated Toyota Landcruiser by UN-Habitat from Mr Kabir Yari. With them is the Permanent Secretary, George Ossi.

NPA lauds NIPCO’s 2014 audit report LAUREL

Authority tasks tank farm and jetty operators to boost investments and commitments Adeola Yusuf

he Nigerian Port Authority (NPA), at the weekend, unveiled the audit report on the level of compliance of tank farms and jetty operators in the nation’s coastline in 2014 to Health Safety and Environment (HSE) standards, conferring the best safety compliant terminal award on NIPCO Plc. NPA’s HSE committee chairman, Emmanuel Abazie, unveiled this report at a ceremony in Lagos, according to a statement from NIPCO. He tasked other tank

farms operators in Nigeria to up their HSE investments and commitments. Abazie listed the notable achievements of the company to include zero fire incident nor fatalities in 2014, participation in fighting fire incident at Apapa Bulk Terminal premises on April 4, 2014 and consistent high score in HSE audit during the year. NIPCO, an integrated indigenous downstream operator, won the best safety compliant terminal award for the fourth consecutive year at the preeminent NPA honours’ event for tank farm and jetty operators in the nation’s coastline in 2014. The HSE recognition provides veritable avenue for the authority to showcase role models in the oil and maritime industry that have been operating within the context of international best practices in their different fields of endeavour.

In the area of HSE facility upgrade, the NPA Safety chief said that NIPCO purchased additional foam fire tender with 5,000 litres of water and 1,000 litres of foam capacity in March, 2014, aside from installing an 8km range emergency alarm system to effectively muster people together during sudden crisis. According to him, safety is first in every endeavour and without it nothing is safe, including port efficiency, service delivery and return on investment. Safety Chief, NIPCO Plc, Mr. Vitalis Ofoegbu, who received the award on behalf of the company, dedicated it to the giant strides of the company’s Managing Director, Mr. Venkatapathy Venkataraman, for his peerless support to HSE elated activities in the last four years. He noted that the fact that for NIPCO to have retained the awards in the last four

years that he assumed the headship of the company, is not by accident, but for the painstaking nature the issue of safety is being handled in the organisation. Reacting to the honour, the MD, Mr. Venkatapathy, said it is a good omen for the company, stressing that the company had as one of its cardinal policies to make compliance to best HSE practices an important facets in its overall operations. He noted that the continuous feat of the company in this realm did not come as a surprise, adding that the NIPCO families have always taken safety as a culture even beyond the work place. According to him, all through year 2014, the company had conducted its businesses with high level of integrity and candour, which had mainly accounted for the plethora of recognitions by stakeholders in the oil and gas industry.

Tullow is “battling” to respond to the oil price collapse. “They are taking the opportunity to kitchen sink most of the peripheral assets in the portfolio,” Westhouse added. Schlumberger had said last month that it would take a $1 billion charge related to jobs cuts and the writedown of some seismic vessels. “They did say they would be cutting jobs, but the magnitude of them is definitely a shocker,” Philip Van Deusen, an analyst with Tigress Financial Partners LLC, told Reuters. A slew of global oil majors such as BP Plc and ConocoPhillips have cut jobs due to a nearly 60 per cent slump in oil prices over the past six months. Brent crude closed at $47.67 on Thursday. “If oil prices stay at this level, none of these companies would just be able to adjust with one round of workforce reductions,” Robin Shoemaker, analyst with KeyBanc Capital Markets, told Reuters. Schlumberger’s customers – oil producers – have slashed capital budgets for 2015 and reduced the number of rigs. The Houston-based company said that capital expenditure, excluding multiclient and project management investments, is expected to be $3 billion for 2015. Capex for 2014 was $4 billion. “In this uncertain environment, we continue to focus on what we can control,” Chief Executive, Paal Kibsgaard, said. Schlumberger, which provides drilling technology and equipment, reported a fourth-quarter profit that beat Wall Street estimates for the tenth straight quarter. Revenue rose six per cent to $12.64 billion, mainly helped by an 18.5 per cent jump in revenue from North America. Net income attributable to the company fell to $302 million, or 23 cents per share, in the fourth quarter ended December 31, from $1.66 billion, or $1.26 per share, a year earlier. On an adjusted basis, the company earned $1.50 per share, beating the average analyst estimate of $1.45 per share, according Thomson Reuters. Shares of the company closed at $76.63 on the New York Stock Exchange.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

NAWOJ, firm partner for 18,000 houses p.36 DOING BUSINESS Experts believe that reduction in the cost of property registration will enhance real estate’s investment

Property&Environment

Lagos land charges: Experts seek input on apt property values that the reduction of the rates would result in reduced charges and may encourage more property transactions to be captured by government, property owners may not necessarily enjoy lower tax and charges. He said that the use of fair market value as basis for assessment may result in significantly higher property values than the previous method of valuation adopted by Lagos State government. “Therefore, a lower tax will only be paid where the rate of increase in property value is less than the ratio of decrease in the applicable tax rates,” he said. He projected that non-tax issues affecting land transactions in the state should be addressed in order to encourage property development-related investment to achieve noticeable results.

Dayo Ayeyemi

t was cheering news for real estate professionals - developers, builders, valuers and investors, last week when Lagos State government signed an Executive Order announcing a major reduction in land charges. From 30 per cent in pre-1999, down to 13 per cent around 2005, the state authority has slashed the cost of land transactions to total of three per cent. Governor Babatunde Fashola had announced that the Executive Order was with immediate effect. The Executive Order given by the governor reduces Consent Fees from six per cent to 1.5 per cent, while Capital Gains Tax, which was previously two per cent, was reduced to 0.5 per cent. Also, cost of Stamp Duty has been reduced from two per cent to 0.5 per cent and registration fees slashed from three per cent to 0.5 per cent. What is paramount to some real estate professionals that spoke with New Telegraph last Sunday, was the need for government to convey a meeting and dialogue with them (professionals) in order to arrive at appropriate property values for effective implementation of the new fees. Experts’ view Meanwhile, while some professionals and investors in the real estate sector have lauded government for the cost-cut initiative on the premise that it would reduce the amount of money being spent on Governor’s Consent, property registration and stamp duty, among others, many other practitioners, just like the doubting Thomas, have not seen any cause for celebration. For the latter, their concerns were that, going by the fair market value method the government claimed it adopted, property owners in high-end neighbourhoods of Ikoyi, Lekki and Victoria Island may likely pay more. Also, they expressed the fear about bureaucracy of government parastals,which is majorly responsible for delay in getting building approval, title and registration of property as at when due. They pointed out that if such unnecessary bottleneck is not checked, it might rubbish the beauty of the whole exercise. While commending government’s initiative, Chairman, Nigeria Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Lagos branch, Mr. Stephen Jagun, said: “It is a welcome development,” adding that practitioners were pleased with the proposals.

Agric: Professionals seek safe environment p.36

One of the housing units in UPDC Estate, Abuja.

Fashola

Jagun

He explained that estate surveyors have met to consider their position over the issue, adding that the group would organise a press briefing this week “to make our position known. “We met today and we are trying to organise a press conference to make our position known,” he said. He noted that the state government has recognised the need to get valuers’ opinion this time around, unlike the arbitrary land charges it did a few years ago. He want government to work with professional valuers to arrive at appropriate values, He said: “We hope Lagos State government will use professionals to arrive at appropriate values. The system should be made to be transparent by allowing people to get consent with appropriate valuation report. We also hope that civil servants will make the process work.” Explaining the efforts of the group to educate government about land charges, Jagun said that members of the association met with the governor recently to tell him some basic facts about land charges just the way it is being practiced all over the world to make the process simple and enhance cheap property transactions.

The Lagos NIESV boss remarked that the authority was getting it right by basing land charges on value of property. “That is what governments are doing all over the world. If Lagos State supports with relevant valuation report, we will support it,” he said Another estate surveyor and valuer, Mr. Sola Fatoki, confirmed that NIESV was coming up with a decision about the reduction in land charges in Lagos, describing it as “a good development.” He said: “It has reduced certain percentages, this is a good development.” Chief Executive Officer, Gran Imprio Limited, Mr. Adeyeye Ogunwusi, an investment banker and real estate investor, said that the news about major reduction in land charges in Lagos was exciting, adding that it would encourage property registration and seamless transactions on land. It was, however, argued in some quarters that the reduction in land charges might not necessarily reduce rate in locations such as Ikoyi, Lekki and Victoria Island due to prevailling high property values in those areas. According to one of the government staff in Lagos, who did not want his name in print, reduction in land charges might have little effect on some high-end locations. He however said that neighbourhoods with low property values would enjoy low charges under the new dispensation. Meanwhile, government, said it has also adopted fair market value, which will be assessed by professionals and published in the official gazette periodically. This will serve as the basis for determining transaction costs. Previously, land transactions were valued based on the size of land at the government assessment rate. A consultant with PWC had explained lastweek that though it was expected

Government’s justifications Justifying the action, Fashola stated that reducing the cost of land transactions in the state, “is in order to ensure that land transactions are carried out with minimal difficulty, especially with difficulties relating to payment of taxes, rates and legitimate levies charged under the enabling law.” Executive Order The Executive Order, (No. EO/BRF/001 of 2015), provides, among others: “Unless otherwise indicated, the valuation of landed property for the determination of tax and other charges payable shall be by reference to the statement of fair market value produced by relevant professionals, adopted by the state government and published from time to time in the Official Government Gazette.” Fashola said that the Order was intended to improve the internal management of the state and not to create any rights or benefits by a party against Lagos State, its departments, agencies or entities, its officials, employees or experts or any other person. The governor explained that at the time when the state’s economy was challenged, there was the need to continue to grow the information on capital, business concerns and industrialisation. He added that some of the expectations in expanding business in the state’s enterprise zones and the Free Trade Zones could only be achieved through the reduction of cost of land acquisition. He said that by reducing a cost of setting up business, his administration has made a huge impact by allowing enabling private enterprise to thrive, adding that the slash in land costs would provide employment opportunities to businesses that will be formed through this policy intervention.

Business | Property & Environment

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

NAWOJ, firm partner on 18,000 houses ACCOMMODATION Synergy will enhance homeownership among female journalists Appolonia Adeyemi

he Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) in partnership with CRCI Africa, is concluding plan to build 18,500 housing units for female journalists in the country. Besides, some indigent women in communities where the housing project will be located also have a chance to benefit from the scheme. Through the scheme, 500 units of three bedroom bungalows, will be built in each state of the federation at N1 million each. To benefit from the project, it is expected that NAWOJ must have acquired land for the building project while members who are direct beneficiaries will pay $250 dollars each (less than N50,000) into NAWOJ’s domiciliary account. After this, the investor will

be shown NAWOJ’s statement of account as proof of fund for CRCI to build houses for journalists. National President of NAWOJ, Ifeyinwa Omowole, said that her union would be pioneering the building of the housing project in which 500 housing units wouldbe built in each state of the federation to reduce the challenge that shelter poses to its members. Omowole gave the hint about the project at the January Congress of the Lagos NUJ, which was held at the Council’s Secretariat in Ikeja. The investors, CRCI Africa, which will execute the project, is a group of investors that draw from development fund to help women development in Africa. CRCI Africa’s mission is to elevate the living standard of women in the community. She said: “I do not want to say the total numbers of people that will benefit from it, because some states may not buy into it, but the 500 units per state is the number on the table.” Omowole expressed that raising 500 female journalists per state to key into the project

might be a challenge, but that indigent members of the community within the project’s location have been designed to benefit from the project. “These indigent women will not pay anything to acquire the bungalow since it is coming to NAWOJ members at very low cost, which is estimated to be less than N1 million.” To boost the number of beneficiaries, she stated that the gesture would be extended to interested members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) to subscribe to the project. According to Omowole, female journalists are well suited to benefit because “many of us have peculiar issues. Most of us are single mothers. Most of us even have husbands who are incapacitated financially. Most

of us bear the burden of being a journalist and a breadwinner and this interested the investors. After their board meeting, they agreed that NAWOJ could draw from this fund.” On how to acquire land for the project, she explained that the scheme would take off in a few states where both NAWOJ and NUJ members already have land, including Lagos State. After the investors must have built, she stated that NAWOJ would release the money to the investors “but not after they have given us the keys of the bungalows. “After that, for four years, each beneficiary will pay $100 dollars, just about N18,000 monthly for four years as mortgage. “After four years, you are

done with your mortgage and the beneficiary will own the property which is three bedroom bungalow with kitchen, toilet and bathroom.” Explaining the background to CRCI Africa, the national president of NAWOJ said the initiation of the group originated from a position paper that was presented at the African Union (AU). “One of the people at that meeting decided to use that and started this organisation,” she said. Already, she affirmed that CRCI Africa has built some houses in Ghana, Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) and are currently building in Cameroun. So, for us in Nigeria, NAWOJ will be the first beneficiary in Nigeria, she added.

Lagos, four others urged to embrace NHF Dayo Ayeyemi

ousing stakeholders have appealed to authorities in Lagos, Kano, Ekiti, Edo and Oyo states to return to the National Housing Fund (NHF), a statutory contributory scheme, for the benefit of enhancing homeownership among civil servants in their territories. This call may not be unconnected to the fact that some state governments that pulled out of the scheme some years back over percieved delay in accessing the fund are yet to return. While some state governments that discontinued their participation with the scheme had since returned, states such as Lagos, Kano, Ondo, Ekiti, Edo and Oyo states are yet to return. Appealing to these states to embrace the housing fund were participants during the 4th Meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The stakeholders noted that despite the significant progress made by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) in its operations and management of the country’s housing finance sector, the organisation is still constrained by the failure of some states to embrace the NHF scheme. Other constraints mentioned at the forum were non-passage of critical mortgage-related bills and delay in the recapitalisation of FMBN. NHF is a Federal Government scheme, which entitles all Nigerians above 21 years of age and in paid employment to contribute a token to the govern-

ment-funded loan. Members of the scheme contribute 2.5 per cent of their monthly salary to the fund through Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria. The maximum amount obtainable under the NHF used to be N5 million, but has since been increased to N15 million. The borrowed capital is repayable over a maximum of 30 years at the rate of six per cent interest. Delegates lamented the impact of housing deficit, which they described as grievous on the low income group, resulting in more urban slums and higher crime rates. To bridge the nation’s housing deficit of 17 million units, they also called for the establishment of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), anchored on Home Ownership Property Development Cooperative Societies. This initiative, they said, must be driven by partnership with land donors, cooperative members as ‘off-takers’, contractors, investors/financiers, shareholders, Primary Mortgage Institution (PMIs) and Bank of Industry (BOI) as currently practiced by Ondo State Development and Property Corporation. A call was also made for the adoption of technological innovations in areas of walling, roofing and associated materials for housing delivery by the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NIBRRI). According to them, these innovations have significant advantages over conventional materials in terms of affordability, sustainability and efficiency.

Freedom Park Estate-Agbara, Atan, Ogun State.

Agric: Professionals seek safe environment Dayo Ayeyemi

ow to adopt modern agricultural practices without compromising the quality of the environment was brought to the fore last weekend during the 13th Chief S. L. Edu Memorial Lecture in Lagos. Themed: “Sustainable Agriculture and the Environment,” the event which was organised by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) in partnership with Chevron Nigeria, was attended by senior citizens, students, school children and environmentalists. High point of the event was the presentation of research grants to two students who submitted their doctoral research proposals for screening by NCF. Guest lecturer at the event and Head of Department of Agronomy, University of Ibadan, Professor Victor Adetimirin, while speaking on sustainable agriculture without compromising the environment, canvassed incentives through regulatory structure to encourage large

farms. Such incentive, he said, must be devoid of corruption, saying: “Corruption can degrade the environment more than agriculture.” According to him, there was the need to immune the incentive from corruption through regulatory structures to encourage large farms to invest in adopting agricultural practices that are not injurious to the environment. He explained that when agricultural practices degraded the environment, the latter would fight back by adversely affecting agriculture in terms of productivity and quality of produce and ultimately public health. He dwelt much on the effect of agriculture on environment and how to make agriculture sustainable in the face of increasing population and its attendant pressure on natural resources. Immunisation of incentive from corruption, he said, would also encourage pre-plant soil analysis to guide fertilizer application

among investors, adding that such farms should receive non-monetary incentives. The professor of agronomy also wants the deployment of appropriate technologies for small-holder agriculture, especially for land preparation in a way that ensures sustainability and preservation of natural resource base. He bemoaned the primitive way of practicing agriculture in Africa, saying that less than 1 percent of the agricultural GDP of developing countries was devoted to research compared to 5.5 per cent for developed countries. Adetimirin urged the need to strengthen integrated research that would jointly address agricultural production and environment by increase research funding by government and private universities. He also called for population control and education that would integrate environment into agricultural objectives and support conservation practices by the poor.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Ethiopian acquires Dreamliner simulator p.38

Aviation

How safe is that airline? p.38

Are African airlines’ failures aiding foreign dominance? African countries’ failure to manage their air transportation properly has opened the door to Gulf airlines such as Emirates, Etihad and Qatar, writes Aviation Editor, WOLE SHADARE Africa’s three major hubs Each of Africa’s three major airport hubs is associated with a large, efficient state-owned carrier: South African Airlines in Johannesburg, Ethiopian Airlines in Addis Ababa and Kenya Airways in Nairobi. Seventeen other countries of sub-Saharan Africa continue to operate weak state-owned carriers in very small, protected markets. Those carriers survive, thanks to substantial government subsidies. They often represent a considerable drain on public finances. An additional 25 countries have scrapped their flag carriers in favour of private operators. The remaining three have no reported operators of their own. The combined effect of airline failures and regulatory restrictions on competition has resulted in increase on concentration, both in the total market and on individual routes. By early 2008, 15 airlines accounted for 59 per cent of all seat capacity offered in Africa. Sixteen of the top 60 routes and 66 of the total of 206 routes, have only one carrier. Ethiopian Airlines and, to a lesser extent, Kenya Airlines, have contributed to this concentration by developing new routes where they are the sole carrier. Opportunity for foreign carriers The lack of competition on those routes has paved the way for gulf and European airlines to make a strong inroad and contribute to lack of retention of foreign exchange by the continent’s airlines. This has equally contributed to relatively high prices: air travel within Africa is considerably more expensive per mile flown than to intercontinental travel, especially on routes of less than 2,000 nautical miles. Moreover, aircraft landing charges are generally high by international standards, partly because of the absence of nonflight revenues from airport concessions. Head of sales for Airbus Africa and Middle East, Hadi Akoum dis-

Inside Arik’s A340-500 premium class lounge

closed that African countries’ failure to manage their air transportation properly has opened the door to Gulf airlines such as Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Gulf airlines. Akoum further stated that these carriers are expanding their African routes but also positioning themselves as international hubs for Africa, adding that it means international travelers fly to and from Africa through Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar. That translates not only into more traffic for Gulf airlines, but also more business for their tourism industries and economies. Experts’ view Experts told New Telegraph that emerging markets are expected to drive air traffic growth and they’re forecast to grow six per cent annually, compared to four per cent for mature markets. Right now, emerging markets account for 39 per cent of air passenger trips and also 39 per cent of aircraft in service. By 2032, Airbus says these shares will grow to 54 per cent and 51 per cent respectively. They noted that some African airlines have recognised the challenge, with South Africa Airways recognised airline for Southern Africa. Ethiopian Airways is making a strong pitch for East Africa. Kenya Airways is also strong in that region, although recent terrorist attacks undermined its position. Elsewhere, particularly in West Africa, the market is wide open to whoever wants it the most. Nigeria, despite its grow-

Nigeria, despite its growing economy and huge population, has shown it’s unable to sustain a reliable, profitable airline

ing economy and huge population, has shown it’s unable to sustain a reliable, profitable airline. International Air Transport Association (IATA) figures released this week show that Gulf airlines aren’t just picking up African passenger traffic. Airfreight carried by African airlines grew 2.9 percent in April, compared to 1.1 percent the previous year. Middle Eastern carriers, however, reported an 8.7-percent growth in demand for airfreight and 8.1-per cent growth in capacity. IATA said: “Carriers are benefiting from the upswing in developed economies and increased volumes from emerging markets in Asia and Africa. The major problems of air transport in Africa could be described as self-inflicted. Countries in Africa refused to liberalise their skies for free entry and exit for African airlines. Policies enunciated and implemented by African governments tend not to augur well for business and this affect profitability for African airlines. Policy somersault There is always policy summersault in many countries, whereby policies change as new aviation ministers are appointed. Most policies are not followed through, but changed midway. According to World Bank report on air transport in Africa, the continent is home to 12 per cent of the world’s people, but it accounts for less than one per cent of the

global air service market. Part of the reasons for Africa’s under-served status, according to World Bank study, is that it refused to open its skies by implementing the Yamoussoukro Decision, which was adopted by African states in 1988 aimed at liberalising the continent’s airspace, as many African countries restrict their air services markets to protect the share held by state-owned air carriers that were established in the 1960s, many of which had gone under. Chief Executive of Ethiopian Airways, Tewolde GabreMariam, said bloc to bloc negotiation is there to make competitive landing scale level field for everybody, adding that because of lack of these two policy instrument; first one is the Yamoussoukro Declaration and the second one is unfair competition in the continent “and the result of it is that 80 per cent of the intercontinental traffic between Africa and the rest of the world is carried by none African airlines.” He lamented that only 20 per cent of traffic is carried by African airlines, adding that this has led to lopsidedness and should be corrected. “To correct this imbalance and unfair competition is to enact those instruments that I explained before. I sincerely wish that Nigeria would lead the change because Nigeria is a big aviation market, a big country, the most populous country, the largest economy in the continent. Nigeria has a lot of ways to drive this initiative.”

Business | Aviation

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ethiopian acquires Dreamliner simulator HISTORIC The B-787 Flight Simulator we will be fully selfsufficient in providing in-house training Wole Shadare

n furtherance of its aviation technology leadership in Africa, Ethiopian, the largest and most profitable airline of the continent, has acquired the first ever B-787 Dreamliner full flight simulator in Africa. The installation and build-up of the full flight Simulator is in progress at Ethiopian main Hub in Addis Ababa and the first pilot training in the B-787 flight simulator will start in March, 2015. Ethiopian was the first in the world outside Japan to receive and operate the B-787 Dreamliner in August 2012. Currently, the airline is the largest operator of B-787 in Africa. With the installation of the B-787 flight simulator, Ethiopian will be the first in Africa to give full flight simulator training for pilots on the B-787 aircraft. Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines Group, Mr. Tewolde Gebremariam, said:

“We are continually investing in developing our training capability. With installation of the B-787 Flight Simulator, we will be fully self-sufficient in providing inhouse training for our pilots on the B-787 aircraft, which has become our core fleet on our mid and long range routes. “Over the last four years, we have invested $80 million in expanding both the scope and scale of our academy. In line with our 15 years strategic roadmap Vision 2025, we will continue to invest heavily on our academy with the objective of increasing its annual in-take capacity from current 1,000 trainees to about

4,000 by 2025.” The carrier already provides full flight simulator training for pilots on the Q-400, the B737, the B757 and the B767. Ethiopian Aviation Academy is certified by the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority, United States’ Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and IOSA (IATA Safety Audit). The academy has been providing training for pilots, maintenance technicians, cabin crew, marketing and leadership for the airline and other sisterly carriers in Africa for over six decades.

Ethiopian Airways’ B787 Dreamliner flight simulator in Addis Ababa. First of its kind in Africa.

Delta Airlines, partners unveil expansion at JFK Airport

elta Air Lines, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and JFK International Air Terminal LLC (JFKIAT) have unveiled the next phase of a Terminal 4 expansion at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The $175 million project adds 11 gates and 75,000 square feet to Terminal 4’s Concourse B and continues Delta’s $1.2 billion investment to enhance and expand the terminal. “The newest enhancements at

Terminal 4 underscore the significant investment Delta is making in New York City’s airports - nearly $2 billion over the last six years,” said Ed Bastian, Delta’s president. “Our customers and employees are benefitting from substantial enhancements to our JFK operations and we thank our partners at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and JFKIAT for working with Delta to create a world-class facility that meets - and, we believe, exceeds

- the expectations of today’s modern travelers.” Through this latest investment, Delta is significantly enhancing the customer experience at Terminal 4 and Terminal 2 by relocating a majority of its Delta Connection flights at JFK from Terminal 2 to the expanded Concourse B in Terminal 4. This will streamline travel for those with connecting flights at JFK and enhance access to amenities at both terminals.

AIR RAGE

WITH

Wole Shadare

How safe is that airline?

e don’t think much about airline safety in this country. It’s been over a year since the last fatal accident involving Associated Airlines, occured precisely on October 3, 2013. But in other parts of the world airline safety isn’t always a given. If you travel overseas, you might find yourself flying an unfamiliar airline, or worse, a name you know because that airline made headline news with a horrific accident. People ask me frequently if a particular airline is safe to fly and with the vast number of new airlines coming up, it is increasingly challenging to ascertain the safety practices and record of a specific airline. If an airline is lacking in certifications, runs an older fleet and recently had some questionable changes in management, I think it would raise more flags than if the airline experienced a single incident in the past 10 years. The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has the statutory power to ground or suspend any airline that flouts safety regulations. The aviation regulatory body does not want to go through the tedious task of defending its policy on air safety any time there is an accident. At that point, it becomes difficult to convince ‘angry’ Nigerians that they have carried out all their oversight functions, forgetting that accidents do occur even when you have done all the right things. Just last week, Discovery Airlines made headlines for all the wrong reasons. The carrier’s operation was suspended for allegedly ‘flouting safety rules’.

According to the aviation regulatory authority, Discovery Airlines failed to carry out certain corrective actions within one week from January 1 to 7, 2015, as raised in an earlier letter to the operator. Spokesman for the agency, Sam Adurogboye, stated that consequent upon the inability to address the issues raised, the Authority in its 8th of January, 2015, letter to the operator declared, “the Authority pursuant to Section 35(2) and (3)(b) of the Civil Aviation Act 2006 and Part 1.1.3.3.3(a) (1) of the Nig. CARs 2009, hereby suspends the Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) of Discovery Airways Limited’’. However, the airline told reporters that it had begun moves to get its Air Operators Certificate (AOC) restored. This brings us to the issue of air safety and how to ensure that our airlines are safe at all times. Although the NCAA has the global safety template for regulation, the financial health of the airlines should also be looked at. It is no longer a secret that many of the nation’s airlines can no longer pay salaries. A motivated worker is one who gives his best while a demoralised worker could easily compromise safety. Most of the airlines are already feeling the heat less than a year they started operations; a sign that they could be forced to go the way of other carriers because of the high capital-intensive nature of airline business. The devaluation of the Naira could see job losses in the sector and an end to many airline businesses within a few months.

Arik Air resumes flights to Cotonou, Douala

L-R: Nigerian Representative, Chartered Institute of Management Consultants, Canada, Mr. Akintunde Sileola; Mr. J. Balouga of the Department of Economics, UNILAG; Mr. Kehinde Odujoko and certificate recipients, Mr. Nathaniel McAbraham-Inajoh, Prof. Ade Ibiwoye of Business Administration Faculty, UNILAG and Mr. Albinus Chiedu, Media Consultant, ESI Global Concepts, at the CIMC induction/certificate honour presentation held at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja.

rik Air has resumed flight services to Cotonou, Benin Republic and Douala, Cameroon, from yesterday. Flight services between Lagos, Nigeria and Cotonou/Douala were suspended last year in the wake of the outbreak of Ebola Virus in some parts of West Africa. The airline said it would be operating four weekly flights from Lagos to Cotonou and Douala on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thurs-

days and Saturdays. Arik Air’s Managing Director, Mr Chris Ndulue said: “We are pleased to return to Cotonou and Douala after the brief period of suspension of flights. We thank our guests for their loyalty and promise that we shall not renege on our pledge to provide world-class experiences and services which are safe, reliable and continually contribute towards the quality of life in the region.”

Photo | News

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

L-R: Ondo South Senatorial candidate, Senator Bode Olajumoke; Governor Olusegun Mimiko and Prof. Kole Omotosho, at an interactive session with interest groups, in Akure.

National Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Adamu Muazu; Deputy Speaker, House of Reps and Imo State PDP Governorship candidate, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and his wife, Lady Ebere, at the PDP Presidential campaign in Owerri, Imo State.

L-R: Head of Administration, Coalition for Change, Ms. Ona Peteri; President, Dr. Tunde Ayeye; Project Director, Ireti Bakare; Special Project Coordinator, Tola Adekunle; his Assistant , Dr. Wale Oyebanji and Lagos Coordinator, Mr. Rotimi Vaughan, during the Coalitionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Drive for Change campaign in Lagos.

L-R: Chairman, Labour Party (LP), Chief Daniel Nwayanwu; President Goodluck Jonathan and Daddy Shokey, during a visit to Jonathan, in Abuja. PHOTO: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN

L-R: Chairman, Lagos State Chapter, Nigerian Automobile Technician Association (NATA), Jacob Fayeun; Senator, representing Lagos West, Sen. Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon and Chairman, Lagos State Vulcanizer Association, Rasheed Adeyemi, during the presentation of mechanical tools and vulcanizing machines to the artisans by Senator Solomon in Lagos.

L-R: Director, DJA Media, Mr. DJ Abass; Rivers State Labour Party Governorship candidate, Prince Tonye Princewill and Chief Executive Officer, NN24 Media Group, Mr. Tony Dara, shortly after a town hall meeting with Princewill by UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friend and associates at Best Western Palm Hotel, London.

PHOTO : SULEIMAN HUSAINI

L-R: Strategist Director, Build A Nation Initiative (BAN), Mr. Eizu Uwaoma; Convener, Mr. Emmanuel Ehiemua; Financial Adviser, Mr. Chris Akaigwe and Media Adviser, Mr. Mike Okwoche, during the inaugural media parley of the Initiative in Lagos. PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

L-R: Communication Officer, HarvestPlus Nigeria, Mr. Abayomi Awelewa; Local Government Inspector (LGI), NYSC, Akinyele LGA, Mrs. Abimbola Ajayi; Country Manager, HarvestPlus Nigeria, Dr. Paul Ilona; Executive Officer, NYSC, Mr Kenneth Okonji and Assistant Local Government Inspector, NYSC, Mrs Anthonia Ilo, during the Skill Acquisition Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) training programme for corps members in Ibadan.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Leisure Arcade NUTS

NTPuzzle

By Kaycee

Hockey Word Search Puzzle

Find and circle all of the Hockey words that are hidden in the grid

MAMA LASISI

By Aliu Eroje

MOYIN & FRIENDS

By Ayo Oyerinde

SUDOKU - Answer to No 36

SUDOKU - No 37

R E Y A L P I T S O P L A 0 G F O R E W A R D T W E N 0 I S N E P S U S N G N I P P I R T T E I P E R I 0 D E F E N S E M E N G L 0 V E S M T M E V A S L 0 V E R T I M E C G N I W 0 B L E R E 0 F F S I D E R 0 C S G S K 0 T 0 A F E A E E 0 J I G H S R E S T U L N H E C N N T H K I S C U A E H E E E L R E D 0 I 0 S N E T I 0 C C N R T R T R F H A T J E N T H 0 A D 0 H A 0 U I E 0 N E R E S P F E A F 0 K G K E N R Z C C p F F F H N R S S E C A F K C I U I R G G A W E T F F N L A A H B T Y 0 C I S H 0 N C 0 E R 0 X K 0 0 E E P 0 M I R E S R E I E R G A I I K 0 B L 0 T A L T s 0 S C E T T G M S N L L S N B E 0 I S P C T G N L A E T A N A E A T I T E Y G I D N P I H S N N F A A N I K I N E S S L T A C D Y E E N A I C A I H S D I T A N L H K L E E G A C C A 0 R H E S H D R H L L D W 0 E A F R U S U H H R B G W N 0 G A L A I E C T A N Y I 0 S L G E A I M I K T E 0 N N 0 R N Y G E Y N C I u A B C N N A N A E B M E I E H B G P R K 0 S U M L K K G G Z G E R 0 P P 0 W E R P L A Y T U E P T K N E E I N G ARENA

ELBOWING

ICE RINK

PENALTIES

SLAPSHOT

ASSIST

ENFORCER

ICING

PENALTY BOX

SLASHING

BLUE LINE

FACE MASK

JERSEY

PERIOD

SLOT

BOARDING FACE-OFF KNEEING PLAYER

SPEARING

BOARDS

FOREWARD

LEAGUE

POINT

STANLEY CUP

BODY CHECK

FOUL

LINE CHANGE

POKE CHECK

SUSPENSION

BREAKAWAY

GAME

LINESMAN

POWER PLAY

TIME-OUT

CENTER

GLOVES

MISCONDUCT PUCK TRIPPING

CHARGING

GOALPOST

NHL

CONTACT

GOALTENDER OFFENSE

REFEREE WINGS

CREASE

HAT TRICK

OFFICIALS

ROUGHING

DEFENSEMEN HELMET

OFFSIDE

SAVE ZAMBONI

DEKE

OVERTIME

SCORE ZONES

HOLDING

EJECTION HOOKING PASS

RED LINE WHISTLE WRIST SHOT

SKATES

NTJokes WORLDWIDE TALKING Akpos: I’m Hungary, Mum: Why don’t you Czech the fridge? Akpos: Ok, I’m Russian to the kitchen! Mum: Hmmm...Maybe you’ll find some Turkey. Akpos: Yea, but its all covered in Greece...Yuck! Mum: There is Norway you can eat that! Akpors: I know, I guess I’ll just have a can of

How to play

Sudoku

ALIU EROJE

CHIEF CARTOONIST aliu.eroje@newtelegraphonline.com

The objective is to fill a 9x9 grid so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3x3 boxes (also called blocks or regions) contains the digits from 1 to 9. A cell is the smallest block in the game. A row , column and region consists of 9 cells and the whole game consists of 81 cells. A region has thicker lines surrounding it. This simply makes it easier to play the game.

Chile Mum: Denmark your name on the can. Akpos: Kenya do it for me? Mum: Ok, I’m Ghana do it! Akpos: Thanks, I’m so tired! Iran for an hour today! Mum: It Tokyo long enough. Akpos: Yeah, Israeli hard sometimes!

Business | Money Line

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Experts predict more naira devaluation CBN disowns Alade’s Facebook account

PURCHASING POWER

Nigerians await outcome of MPC meetings Godson Ikoro

head of Monetary Policy Committee meeting, FBN capital yesterday predicted a follow-up devaluation of the naira, following the committee’s opinion that oil prices will not recover in a hurry. This is coming just as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has refuted the existence of any Facebook account purportedly opened by one of its Deputy Governors, Dr. (Mrs.) Sarah Alade FBN Capital in a report said that the MPC met yesterday and today in Abuja, adding that since its last meeting, the foreign exchange rate on the interbank market had moved quickly south of the new corridor while official reserves declined by a further $2.5 billion and the spot price of Bonny Light fell below $50/pb. The experts argued that these developments

could be said to point to further measures this week, saying that it was unconvinced, and not pushing the view that the committee was waiting for the elections before acting. FBN capital said it expected an unchanged policy rate of 13 per cent, adding that the increase last time in the rate of one percentage point and in banks’ cash reserve requirement (CRR) for private-sector deposits were pushing up lending rates to the real economy. It argued that the rationale for the increase in the CRR (from 15 per cent to 20 per cent), combined with the CBN’s administrative measures, was to squeeze liquidity and banks’ “speculative” forex trading activities. It added that the committee naturally wanted banks to play more of a developmental role in lending to their customers. After the meeting, the CBN had ruled that authorised dealers had to maintain flat forex positions at the close of each trading day to ensure the ultimate measure against speculation. It further said that

subsequent relaxation to a net open position equivalent to 0.1 per cent of shareholders’ funds did not undermine its argument. Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday de-

bunked a Facebook account purported to belong to Dr. Alade, In a press statement signed by Mr. Ibrahim Muazu, Director of Corporate Communications Department, the apex bank said: “We wish to

Ecobank to challenge Ivory Coast court decision over ex-CEO

cobank Transnational Inc will challenge a ruling by a commercial court in Ivory Coast that the pan-African bank must pay $15 million in damages to former chief executive, Thierry Tanoh, a spokesman said yesterday. The court ruled last week that a letter written by Ecobank board member, Daniel Matjila, last year and published in the media tarnished the image of Tanoh, who was dismissed last March. Tanoh lost his job after months of infighting that raised questions about the regulation of Ecobank, one of Africa’s biggest financial institutions. Matjila is chief executive of South Africa’s Public Investment Corporation, which was the largest shareholder in Ecobank until Qatar National Bank

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

N14,737,618.7m N16,509,472.5m 8 0.0000 12 10.899 7.96 17.01 US$109.9 US$42,604,781,796.6

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, 2013 Dec, 2013 Dec, 2013 2/5/2014 1/20/2014 11/6/2013 Dec, 2013 Dec, 2013 1/20/2014 2/5/2014 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

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

Money Market Offer 11.85 11.85 11.80 Offer 163.38

inform all members of the public, particularly members of the social media community that Dr. (Mrs.) Sarah Alade currently has no Facebook account. We wish to state categorically therefore that the Face-

book account bearing her name is fake and aimed at misleading members of Public. Consequently, the bank wishes to advise all members of the public to desist from transacting business with the owner of the impostors account as doing so would be at their own risk.

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

Rate (%) 11.33 11.63

NIFEX Spot ($/N)

Bid 163.4000

Offer 163.5000 Source: FMDQ

bought a stake of more than 23 per cent in September. “It’s not a fair judgement and we don’t think that the commercial court is the competent court in which this matter should have been held,” said Ecobank spokesman, Richard Uku. The appeal according to Reuters, would be to Ivory Coast’s

Court of Appeal in Abidjan, said a lawyer for Tanoh. Judgement in a separate case involving Tanoh’s dismissal filed in Togo is expected on February 3, Uku said. Tanoh, an Ivorian, now works for Ivory Coast President, Alassane Ouattara, as deputy secretary general in the presidency.

Naira falls to record low as rate decision looms

he naira weakened to a record low a day before the central bank decides on interest and exchange rates and as Morgan Stanley and Renaissance Capital forecast further declines for the currency battered by low oil prices. The naira fell three per cent, the most in a week, to N190.45 against the dollar before paring losses to trade at N190.30 as of 12:03 p.m. in Lagos. It will probably drop to N220 by the end of 2015, according to Yvonne Mhango, a sub-Saharan Africa economist for Renaissance Capital. “We see no respite over

the short term,” Johannesburg-based Mhango said in a note to clients. The reversal of inflows and low foreign-exchange reserves imply “sizable naira depreciation is coming,” she said. Policy makers in Nigeria, which relies on crude for 90 per cent of export earnings and 70 per cent of revenue, have reacted to oil prices more than halving since June with spending cuts and an increase in interest rates to a record 13 per cent. The naira depreciated 13 per cent in the past three months, the most among 24 African currencies tracked by Bloomberg.

John Holt returns to profitability

espite insecurity around the country and weak purchasing power of citizens, John Holt Plc posted a profit after tax of N 93 million and an earnings of N591 million in 2014. This indicated showing an improved performance, when compared with its previous years’ outings. The company recorded a drop of N3billion in 2013 to N2.8 billion in 2014. This became evident from its results for 2013/14 filed with the Nigerian Stock Exchange, which showed that in 2013, the company recorded a profit after tax of N93 million and N591 million in 2014. “This is, indeed, a remarkable stride, considering the fact that in the 2012 account previously reviewed, a loss after tax of N67 million was recorded,” says economic analysts.

Although the account of the company shows negative shareholders’ funds, the group shareholders’ funds which represent the consolidation of the subsidiary companies’ assets improved over the three years closing at N3.3 billion in 2014 as against N2 billion in 2013 and N1.8 billion in 2012. A closer look at John Holt Plc shows that the conglomerate comprises the company itself and investments in the shares of 100 per cent owned subsidiary companies, and in accordance with the accounting rule of consolidation, the true performance and financial position of the parent company is best viewed by including the performance and financial position of the subsidiaries to form the Group result and financial position.

Business | Financial Market News

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

19-Jan-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

Price

Rating/Agency

Issuer

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 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)

23-Apr-10 16-Aug-13 27-Apr-12 27-Jul-07 31-Aug-07 30-May-08 29-Jun-12 23-Oct-09 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 16.39 14.20 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493

535.00 581.39 476.80 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 600.00 434.68 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 206.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

4,855.63

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

4,420.27

Rating/Agency

Issuer

Description

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs)

23-Apr-15 16-Aug-16 27-Apr-17 27-Jul-17 31-Aug-17 30-May-18 29-Jun-19 23-Oct-19 27-Jan-22 14-Mar-24 28-Nov-28 22-May-29 20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30 18-Jul-34

0.26 1.57 2.27 2.52 2.61 3.36 4.44 4.76 7.02 9.15 13.86 14.34 14.84 15.51 19.49

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

Bid Price

Offer Price

12.76 15.39 15.39 15.40 15.40 15.44 15.48 15.50 15.49 15.56 14.47 14.33 14.20 14.89 15.23

12.15 15.28 15.30 15.32 15.32 15.31 15.38 15.39 15.42 15.50 14.42 14.28 14.13 14.82 15.18

97.78 96.80 99.40 88.75 87.35 87.88 101.60 72.08 103.75 93.40 103.11 88.86 65.08 70.70 80.91

97.93 96.95 99.55 88.90 87.50 88.18 101.90 72.38 104.05 93.70 103.41 89.16 65.38 71.00 81.21

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Indicative Price

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 2.70 112.22 116.70 66.49

24-May-15 03-Apr-17 09-Dec-16 20-Apr-17 06-Jul-17

0.34 1.21 1.89 2.25 2.46

2.63 2.27 2.00 1.00 1.00

15.99 17.96 17.40 16.39 16.39

94.77 99.34 97.88 96.31 93.11

Agency Bonds FMBN ***LCRM

0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 0.00/16.00 LCRM 09-DEC-2016 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 20-APR-2017 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

322.67

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

310.10

Sub-National Bonds A+/Agusto

KADUNA

12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015

31-Aug-10

12.50

8.50

31-Aug-15

0.61

4.44

19.21

96.25

A/Agusto

*EBONYI

13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015

30-Sep-10

13.00

4.18

30-Sep-15

0.45

3.23

17.34

98.88

A-/Agusto

*BENUE

14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-11

14.00

4.86

30-Jun-16

0.97

4.46

20.22

94.97

‡ /Agusto

*IMO

15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-09

15.50

5.73

30-Jun-16

0.97

3.48

19.25

97.05

‡ /Agusto; ‡ /GCR

LAGOS

10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017

19-Apr-10

10.00

57.00

19-Apr-17

2.25

1.00

16.39

88.33

‡ /Agusto

*BAYELSA

13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017

30-Jun-10

13.75

25.73

30-Jun-17

1.51

1.00

16.46

96.67

‡ /Agusto

EDO

14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017

30-Dec-10

14.00

25.00

31-Dec-17

2.95

1.79

17.21

92.79

‡ /Agusto; A+/GCR

*DELTA

14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018

30-Sep-11

14.00

34.14

30-Sep-18

2.12

1.80

17.19

94.70

‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR

NIGER

14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018

04-Oct-11

14.00

9.00

04-Oct-18

3.71

1.00

16.46

93.31

14.50

13.73

09-Dec-18

2.32

1.00

16.39

96.70 89.45

‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR†

*EKITI

14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018

09-Dec-11

‡ /Agusto

*NIGER

14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018

12-Dec-13

14.00

10.20

12-Dec-18

2.32

4.78

20.17

‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR

*ONDO

15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019

14-Feb-12

15.50

27.00

14-Feb-19

2.50

1.00

16.40

96.39

A/Agusto; A-/GCR ‡ /Agusto; ‡ /GCR

*GOMBE LAGOS

15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019

A/Agusto; A-/GCR

*OSUN

14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019

02-Oct-12 22-Nov-12 12-Dec-12

15.50 14.50 14.75

16.23 80.00 26.62

02-Oct-19 22-Nov-19 12-Dec-19

2.76 4.84 2.82

1.00 1.00 2.74

16.41 16.50 18.15

98.27 93.44 92.95

‡ /Agusto

*OSUN

14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020

10-Oct-13

14.75

11.10

10-Oct-20

3.37

1.00

16.44

95.91

‡ /Agusto; ‡ /GCR

LAGOS

13.50 LAGOS IV 27-NOV-2020

27-Nov-13

13.50

87.50

27-Nov-20

5.85

1.00

16.51

88.93

A-/Agusto; BBB+/DataPro

KOGI

15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020

31-Dec-13

15.00

5.00

31-Dec-20

5.95

1.94

17.45

14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021

31-Dec-13

14.50

4.55

31-Dec-20

3.61

1.44

16.89

94.06

06-Jan-14

15.00

4.56

06-Jan-21

3.64

1.95

17.41

94.05

96.75

‡ /Agusto A-/GCR

*EKITI *NASARAWA

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

91.14

460.61 427.07

Corporate Bonds *UPDC

10.00 UPDC 17-AUG-2015

17-Aug-10

10.00

3.61

17-Aug-15

0.33

4.88

18.16

*FLOURMILLS

12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015

09-Dec-10

12.00

9.34

09-Dec-15

0.64

1.00

15.85

98.21

*CHELLARAMS

14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016

06-Jan-11

14.00

0.42

06-Jan-16

0.72

2.63

17.70

97.81

A+/Agusto; A-/GCR

NAHCO

13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016

A-/Agusto

‡ /Agusto A-/Agusto BB/GCR

29-Sep-16

1.69

1.00

16.43

95.05

FSDH

14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016

25-Oct-13

14.25

5.53

25-Oct-16

1.76

1.34

16.76

96.23

A/GCR

UBA

13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017

30-Sep-10

29-Sep-11

13.00

20.00

15.00

30-Sep-17

2.70

1.00

16.41

92.75

BBB-/GCR

*C & I LEASING *DANA#{r}

18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017

30-Nov-12

18.00

0.64

30-Nov-17

1.72

1.88

17.31

102.07

Nil

MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018

09-Apr-11

16.00

6.30

09-Apr-18

1.72

3.48

18.91

96.17

A-/DataPro†; B+/GCR

*TOWER#

MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

09-Sep-11

18.00

2.90

09-Sep-18

1.89

5.20

20.60

96.30

AAA/DataPro†; A/GCR

*TOWER#

MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

09-Sep-11

16.00

0.80

09-Sep-18

1.89

5.06

20.46

101.76

A/Agusto; A/GCR

UBA

14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018

22-Sep-11

14.00

35.00

22-Sep-18

3.67

1.35

16.81

92.47

Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR

15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018

18-Oct-13

15.75

2.40

18-Oct-18

1.99

2.29

17.68

97.18

BBB-/DataPro†; BB/GCR

*LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS#

MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019

17-Feb-12

18.00

0.41

17-Feb-19

2.08

6.11

21.50

94.43

Nil

*DANA#{r}

16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019

01-Apr-14

16.00

4.50

01-Apr-19

2.95

2.16

17.58

96.62

A+/Agusto; A-/GCR

NAHCO

15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020

14-Nov-13

15.25

2.05

14-Nov-20

5.82

2.76

18.27

89.39

A/GCR

STANBIC IBTC

182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IA 30-SEP-2024

30-Sep-14

11.93

0.10

30-Sep-24

9.70

1.00

16.51

78.13

A/GCR

STANBIC IBTC

13.25 STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024

30-Sep-14

13.25

15.44

30-Sep-24

9.70

1.00

16.51

84.42

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

124.44

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

115.90

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

IFC

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

11-Feb-18

3.06

1.00

16.42

85.45

Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P

AfDB

11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021

10-Jul-14

11.25

12.95

01-Feb-21

4.29

1.00

16.49

84.65

Bid Price

Offer Price

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

24.95 21.22

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

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

7.18

6.84

97.94

99.55

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

12-Jul-13

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

6.14

5.73

96.86

98.11

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

12-Jul-13

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

7.40

7.20

93.66

94.82

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

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

FGN

BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,442.28

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

54.19

69.38

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC I

7.50 MAY 19, 2016

19-May-11

7.50

500.00

19-May-16

6.99

100.63

B+/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

11.23

91.50

B/Fitch; B/S&P

FIDELITY BANK PLC

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

11.99

11.28

86.38

88.13

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

9.52

8.54

88.99

91.89

B/Fitch

AFREN PLC II

10.25 APR 08, 2019

08-Apr-12

10.25

300.00

08-Apr-19

31.05

24.92

52.79

62.96

B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P

ZENITH BANK PLC

6.25 APR 22, 2019

22-Apr-14

6.25

500.00

22-Apr-19

9.21

89.75

B/Fitch; B/S&P

DIAMOND BANK PLC

8.75 May 21, 2019

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

14.95

13.46

80.69

84.88

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

FIRST BANK PLC

8.25 AUG 07, 2020

07-Aug-13

8.25

300.00

07-Aug-20

9.95

92.00

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

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

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

27.33 12.51 11.35

27.33 12.20 11.35

41.00 85.75 84.00

41.00 87.00 84.00

B-/S&P

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

14-Aug-14

8.75

250.00

14-Aug-21

10.74

9.69

89.84

94.52

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

4,760.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

3,888.36

**Treasury Bills DTM 10 17 24 31 38 45 52 59

FIXINGS Maturity 29-Jan-15 5-Feb-15 12-Feb-15 19-Feb-15 26-Feb-15 5-Mar-15 12-Mar-15 19-Mar-15

Bid Discount (%) 10.90 10.11 10.50 9.92 10.45 11.50 10.93 10.81

Offer Discount (%) 10.65 9.86 10.25 9.67 10.20 11.25 10.68 10.56

Bid Yield (%) 10.93 10.16 10.57 10.00 10.56 11.67 11.10 11.00

Money Market Tenor

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 10.1667 13.0795 14.3828 15.6973

Rate (%)

OBB

9.50

O/N

10.00

Tenor Call 1M

REPO

Rate (%) 9.17 14.04

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

Spot 7D 14D 1M 2M 3M

187.00 187.09 187.38 188.07 189.34 190.60

187.10 187.19 187.52 188.53 190.33 192.10

0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017

06-Jul-12

0.00/16.50

66.49

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

322.67

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

310.10

06-Jul-17

2.46

1.00

16.39

93.11

Sub-National Bonds A+/Agusto

KADUNA

12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015

31-Aug-10

12.50

8.50

31-Aug-15

0.61

4.44

19.21

96.25

A/Agusto

*EBONYI

13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015

30-Sep-10

13.00

4.18

30-Sep-15

0.45

3.23

17.34

98.88

A-/Agusto

*BENUE

14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-11

14.00

4.86

30-Jun-16

0.97

4.46

20.22

94.97

‡ /Agusto

*IMO

15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-09

15.50

5.73

30-Jun-16

0.97

3.48

19.25

97.05

10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017

19-Apr-10

10.00

57.00

19-Apr-17

2.25

1.00

16.39

88.33

‡ /Agusto; ‡ /GCR NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY,LAGOS JANUARY 20, 2015

Business | Financial Market News

‡ /Agusto

*BAYELSA

13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017

30-Jun-10

13.75

25.73

30-Jun-17

1.51

1.00

16.46

96.67

‡ /Agusto

EDO

14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017

30-Dec-10

14.00

25.00

31-Dec-17

2.95

1.79

17.21

92.79

‡ /Agusto; A+/GCR

*DELTA

14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018

30-Sep-11

14.00

34.14

30-Sep-18

2.12

1.80

17.19

94.70

‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR

NIGER

14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018

04-Oct-11

14.00

9.00

04-Oct-18

3.71

1.00

16.46

93.31

‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR†

*EKITI

14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018

14.50

13.73

09-Dec-18

2.32

1.00

16.39

96.70

‡ /Agusto

*NIGER

14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018

14.00

10.20

12-Dec-18

2.32

4.78

20.17

89.45

‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR

*ONDO

15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019

15.50

27.00

14-Feb-19

2.50

1.00

16.40

96.39

A/Agusto; A-/GCR ‡ /Agusto; ‡ /GCR

*GOMBE LAGOS

15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019

15.50 14.50 14.75

16.23 80.00 26.62

02-Oct-19 22-Nov-19 12-Dec-19

2.76 4.84 2.82

1.00 1.00 2.74

16.41 16.50 18.15

98.27 93.44 92.95

FMDQ OTC turnover hits N104 trn mark in 2014

CONFIDENCE

Market capitalisation rises by N246 billion

09-Dec-11 12-Dec-13

Nigerian stocks 14-Feb-12 02-Oct-12 advance on 22-Nov-12 12-Dec-12 investors’ optimism 10-Oct-13

14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 he N i g e r i a*OSUN n over of N45 trillion and 14.75 11.10 10-Oct-20 3.37 1.00 16.44 95.91 *OSUN 14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020 over-the-counter by the end of December 27-Nov-13 13.50 87.50 27-Nov-20 5.85 1.00 16.51 88.93 ‡ /Agusto; ‡ /GCR LAGOS 13.50 LAGOS IV 27-NOV-2020 (OTC) market for 2014, this rose signifi31-Dec-13 15.00 5.00 31-Dec-20 5.95 1.94 17.45 91.14 A-/Agusto; BBB+/DataPro KOGI 15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020 31-Dec-13 14.50 4.55 31-Dec-20 3.61 1.44 16.89 94.06 foreign cantly to N104 trillion, ‡ /Agusto exchang, Trea*EKITI 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 Stories Chris Ugwu 06-Jan-14 15.00 4.56 per3.64 shares 1.95 lion shares 17.41 94.05at N1.2 A-/GCR Bills *NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021 with the top15.00 10NASARAWA dealing sury (T.Bills), The key market of06-Jan-21 426.2 billion valued TOTAL money OUTSTANDING 460.61the bonds, andVALUE de- members accounting worth N3.4 billion in billion in 1,643 deals. formance measures, TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION 427.07and rivatives achieved an for over 70 per cent of espite has con- NSE All Share Index 4,391 deals was recorded Further analysis of overall turnover in 2014 this turnover. tinued to come market capitalisation, in the day’s trading. the day’s trading showed Corporate Bonds the of ‡circa FX (including FX the way of 17-Aug-10 inves- rose by Insurance sub-sector 10.00 UPDC 17-AUG-2015 10.00 2.48 per cent 3.61 as 17-Aug-15 0.33 4.88 that GTB 18.16 Plc topped 96.75 /Agusto N104 trillion. *UPDC FLOURMILLS A-/Agusto figure slightly 12.00 sentiments 9.34 ex0.64services 1.00 day’s 15.85 98.21 with *FLOURMILLS derivatives)12.00was the9-DEC-2015 This tors as the09-Dec-10 bulls market of09-Dec-15 the financial gainers table 14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016 BB/GCR 14.00 0.42 06-Jan-16 17.70 *CHELLARAMS most actively traded strengthened their06-Jan-11 exceeded the analysts’ grip tended gaining streak sector was the0.72most ac-2.63 9.94 per cent to97.81 close at 13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 A+/Agusto; A-/GCR 29-Sep-11 13.00 15.00 29-Sep-16 1.69 1.00 16.43 95.05 NAHCO product, accounting on the market activities, estimate of N100 trillion following investors’ high tive (measured by turnN19.68, while NEM Insur14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 A-/Agusto 25-Oct-13 14.25 5.53 25-Oct-16 1.76 1.34 16.76 96.23 FSDH causing bargain hunters published on Septemfor the largest share of optimism. over volume); with 146.8 ance Plc followed 13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 A/GCR 30-Sep-10 13.00 20.00 30-Sep-17 2.70 1.00 16.41 92.75 with UBA the market turnover at30-NOV-2017 Consequently , the berBBB-/GCR 4, 2013, based on its to jostle for shares on the million shares cent to close 18.00 C&I LEASING 30-Nov-12 18.00 0.64 All30-Nov-17 1.72 worth 1.88 7.55 per 17.31 102.07 at 57 *C & I LEASING MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 09-Apr-11 09-Apr-18 1.72 3.48 kobo per 18.91 share. 96.17 Nil growth projections *DANA of 37.5 per cent followed back of blue chip compaShare16.00 Index gained6.30 738.51 N74.2 million exchanged Nigerian MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 09-Sep-11 2.90 per 20.60 96.30 B+/GCR *TOWER by T.Bills and Repos/ nies. by09-Sep-18 investors in1.89 106 deals.5.20 Breweries theA-/DataPro†; nation’s OTC market basis18.00 points or 2.48 Plc gained of MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 09-Sep-11 16.00 0.80 09-Sep-18 1.89 5.06 20.46 101.76 AAA/DataPro†; A/GCR *TOWER following the launch of Buy-Backs with a share Analysts said the recent to close at 29,773.40 Volume in the sub-sec5.04 per cent to close at 14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018 A/Agusto; A/GCR 22-Sep-11 14.00 35.00 22-Sep-18 3.67 1.35 16.81 92.47 UBA FMDQ OTC Plc (FMDQ) of 25.4 per cent and 22.8 surgence of the bulls to as against 29034.89 tor was largely1.99 driven by2.29 N146.00 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR 18-Oct-13 15.75 2.40 re18-Oct-18 17.68per share. 97.18 *LA CASERA for corded onto the financial marper cent respectively. during the0.41 previ- activities in the2.08shares of6.11 On21.50 the flip side, MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS IIsustain 17-FEB-2019 market rally 17-Feb-12 18.00 17-Feb-19 94.43 UPL BBB-/DataPro†; BB/GCR *CHELLARAMS 16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019 the third day after weeks 01-Apr-14 16.00 4.50 01-Apr-19 Benefits 2.95 Assur2.16 Plc led 17.58 96.62with a *DANA ketNillandscape. The bond market ous transactions, while Mutual the losers 15.25only NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 14-Nov-20 5.82 2.76 drop of 18.279.72 per 89.39 A+/Agusto; A-/GCR 14-Nov-13 15.25 2.05 NAHCO accounts for FMDQ was officially 7.7 of losses, was an indicathe market capitalisaance Plc. cent to 182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IA 30-SEP-2024 A/GCR 30-Sep-14 11.93 0.10 30-Sep-24 9.70 1.00 16.51 78.13 STANBIC IBTC launched in November per cent of the martion that confidence was tion of equities appreciAlso, banking sub-secclose at N3.81, while Cad13.25 STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024 A/GCR 30-Sep-14 13.25 15.44 30-Sep-24 9.70 1.00 16.51 84.42 STANBIC IBTC 2013 with a mandate to ket turnover, an area returning to the market ated by N246 billion or tor, boosted by activities bury Nigeria Plc shed TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE 124.44 work with stakeholders where FMDQ and oth- in spite of the build up to 2.48 per cent as market in the shares of Access five per cent to close at TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION 115.90 to develop the Nigerian er market stakeholders 2015 general elections that sentiment remained on Bank Plc and Diamond N39.90. Champion BrewSupranational Bank Plc, followed with eries lost 4.92 per cent to OTC market Bond and in the are looking to boost in has posed threat to invest- the green territory. 10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018 AAA/S&P of just overIFCa 11-Feb-13 10.20 12.00 16.42 85.45 N6.19 per ments in the country . course 2015, through market Meanwhile, a turnover a 11-Feb-18 turnover of 3.06 141.8 mil-1.00 close at share. 11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021 Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P 10-Jul-14 11.25 12.95 01-Feb-21 4.29 1.00 16.49 84.65 initiayear, has engaged inAfDB a development TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE number of initiatives tives to be championed ansard Insurance Plc 24.95 TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION to deliver on this man- by FMDQ. said it completed the 21.22 This turnover repredate. acquisition of 60 per Outstanding Value Rating/Agency Issuer trades executedDescription Date issued Coupon (%) paid Maturity Date Bid Yield (%) Offer Yield (%) Bid Price Offer Price FMDQ in a state- sents cent Issue of the and ($mm) ment noted that in its between dealing memup share capital of a Pension FGN Eurobonds Prices & Yields capacity as the market bers, dealing members Fund Administrator (PFA) cess of completing the trans“In view of the acquisi6.75 JAN 28, 2021 BB-/Fitch; B+/S&P 07-Oct-11 6.75 500.00 28-Jan-21 7.18 6.84 97.94 the beneficial 99.55 organiser and front- & clients, and dealing known as Penman Pensions action and had obtained reg- tion of AAH, line market regulator, members and the CenLimited. ulatory approvals from the ownership of the 77 per BB-/Fitch; FGN 5.13 JUL 12, 2018 12-Jul-13 5.13 500.00 12-Jul-18 6.14 5.73 96.86 98.11 Mansard in a notice to the National Pension Commis- cent of Mandard’s shares theBB-/S&P organisation was tral Bank of Nigeria BB-/Fitch; 6.38 JUL 12, 2023 12-Jul-13 Stock Exchange 6.38 500.00 12-Jul-23 7.40 7.20 93.66 94.82 improving market (CBN). It excludes priNigerian sion, the National Insurance (the majority shareholder) BB-/S&P transparency in the (NSE), said the acquisition mary market auctions Commission and the Securihas changed to AXA while TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE 1,500.00 OTC market with its in T.Bills, Bonds and extended its subsidiaries to 1,442.28 ties and Exchange Commis- the legal ownership of the TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION four having already made sion. trading systems, price FX,” the management shares will not change,” it Corporate Eurobonds discovery applications, said. significant inroads into Asset The company also noted noted. 11.50 FEB 01, 2016 B/Fitch; B-/S&P AFREN PLC I It noted that FMDQ 01-Feb-11 11.50 Insur450.00 01-Feb-16 54.19 54.19 69.38had posted 69.38 Mansard a 56 website and the weekly Management, Health that further to its market 7.50 MAY 19, 2016 B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC I 6.99 28, 6.99 cent decline 100.63 per in100.63 post-tax bulletin of19-May-16 November data submissions by its would continue to enance 19-May-11 and Property 7.50 segments 500.00 7.25 JUL 25, 2017 B+/S&P members such ACCESS BANK PLCin initiatives that 25-Jul-12 7.25 owned 350.00 25-Jul-17 11.23As11.23 91.50 91.50 year profits during the half 2014 on acquisition of dealing gage through its wholly 6.88 MAY 09, 2018 B/S&P FIDELITY would BANK PLC make the Nigeri09-May-13 (Mansard 6.88 Invest300.00 11.99 11.28 86.3830, 2014. 88.13 ended June as B/Fitch; banks and discount subsidiaries sur Africa02-May-18 Holding Limited 6.00 NOV 08, 2018 B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC 08-Nov-18 9.52 8.54 88.99 houses on their trading an OTC market globally ments08-Nov-13 Limited and 6.00 Mansard 400.00 (AAH), it has notified the NiThe company in91.89 a filing 10.25 APR 08, 2019 B/Fitch AFREN PLC II 08-Apr-12 10.25 300.00 08-Apr-19 31.05 24.92 52.79 62.96 activities in the OTC competitive by working Health Limited) as well as gerian Stock Exchange that with the Nigerian Stock 6.25 APR 22, 2019 B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P ZENITH BANK PLC 22-Apr-14 6.25 500.00 22-Apr-19 9.21 9.21 89.75 89.75 its majority holding in the the process of transferring Exchange said its half-year market. with the stakeholders 8.75 May 21, 2019 B/Fitch; B/S&P DIAMOND BANK PLC 21-May-14 8.75 200.00 21-May-19 14.95 13.46 80.69 84.88 the ownership toPLCimprove liquidity, “In the of BANK property joint ventures, APD 300.00 net 8.25 AUG 07, 2020 B-/Fitch; B/S&Pfirst half FIRST 07-Aug-13 8.25 07-Aug-20of Assur 9.95 Af9.95 earnings 92.00 decreased 92.00 from transparency, goverLimited. N1.842 2014, the dealing memrica Holding Limited (AAH) billion to N814 6.63 DEC 09, 2020 B-/Fitch; B/S&P AFREN PLC III 09-Dec-13 6.63 360.00 09-Dec-20 27.33 27.33 41.00 in 2013 41.00 9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021 B-/Fitch; B/S&P ACCESS BANK PLC II and efficiency 24-Jun-14 9.25 month 400.00 24-Jun-21 12.51 on 12.20 85.75 87.00a drop bers achieved an overnance Mansard had last to AXA was completed million accounting for 8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021 FIRST BANK LTD 11.35 11.35 84.00 84.00 all B-/Fitch; OTCB/S&P market turnin the OTC market. noted23-Jul-14 that it was in8.00the pro- 450.00 December 23-Jul-21 8, 2014. of 56 per cent. A/Agusto; A-/GCR ‡ /Agusto

#{r}

B-/S&P

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Mansard completes 60% acquisition of Penman Pensions

14-Aug-14

8.75

250.00

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

14-Aug-21

10.74

9.69

89.84

4,760.00

94.52

19-Jan-15

3,888.36

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 Foreign & Forwards) 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 upExchange to date. (Spot We do not guarantee DTM Maturity Bid Discount (%) Offer Discount (%) Bid Yield (%) Tenor Rate (%) NIBORfor the results of any action taken on the basis of the Information. the accuracy, timeliness, completeness, performance or fitness for a particular purpose of any of the Information, neither do we accept liability 10 29-Jan-15 10.90 10.65 10.93 FGN

17 24 Bonds 31 38 45 Rating/Agency 52 59 66 73 80 87 94 101 108 115 NA 122 136 143 157 199 227 318 332 353

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

5-Feb-15 12-Feb-15 19-Feb-15 26-Feb-15 5-Mar-15 Issuer 12-Mar-15 19-Mar-15 26-Mar-15 2-Apr-15 9-Apr-15 16-Apr-15 23-Apr-15 30-Apr-15 7-May-15 14-May-15 NA 21-May-15 4-Jun-15 11-Jun-15 25-Jun-15 6-Aug-15 3-Sep-15 3-Dec-15 17-Dec-15 7-Jan-16

10.11 10.50 9.92 10.45 11.50 Description 10.93 10.81 4.00 23-APR-2015 12.30 12.58 13.05 16-AUG-2016 12.10 15.10 27-APR-2017 10.73 9.85 27-JUL-2017 12.25 9.35 31-AUG-2017 13.10 10.70 30-MAY-2018 12.50 16.00 29-JUN-2019 12.50 7.00 23-OCT-2019 13.70 16.39 27-JAN-2022 14.10 14.20 14-MAR-2024 13.46 15.00 28-NOV-2028 14.35 12.49 22-MAY-2029 13.70 14.00 8.50 20-NOV-2029 13.65 10.00 23-JUL-2030 14.00 12.1493 18-JUL-2034 14.20

9.86 10.25 9.67 10.20 11.25 Issue Date 10.68 10.56 23-Apr-10 12.05 12.33 16-Aug-13 11.85 27-Apr-12 10.48 27-Jul-07 12.00 31-Aug-07 12.85 30-May-08 12.25 29-Jun-12 12.25 23-Oct-09 13.45 27-Jan-12 13.85 14-Mar-14 13.21 28-Nov-08 14.10 22-May-09 13.45 13.75 20-Nov-09 13.40 23-Jul-10 13.75 18-Jul-14 13.95

Bonds

10.16 10.57 10.00 10.56 11.67 Coupon 11.10 (%) 11.00 4.00 12.58 12.90 13.05 12.43 15.10 11.01 9.85 12.65 9.35 13.59 10.70 12.98 16.00 13.01 7.00 14.36 16.39 14.88 14.20 14.21 15.00 15.29 12.49 14.81 15.34 8.50 15.49 10.00 16.04 12.1493 16.46

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

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION #

Issuer

Description

Issue Date

Agency Bonds 0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 0.00/16.00 LCRM 09-DEC-2016 Total Outstanding Modified Duration Buckets Porfolio Market Value(Bn) ***LCRM 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 20-APR-2017 Volume(Bn) 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017 FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

OBB

9.50

O/N

10.00

REPO

Tenor TTM Call (Yrs) 1M 3M0.26 6M1.57

Maturity Date

535.00 23-Apr-15 NITTY 581.39 16-Aug-16 Tenor Rate (%) 476.80 27-Apr-17 1M 9.9590 20.00 27-Jul-17 2M 10.7822 100.00 31-Aug-17 3M 11.7114 300.00 30-May-18 6M 14.5132 351.30 29-Jun-19 9M 14.6496 233.90 23-Oct-19 12M 17.9782 600.00 27-Jan-22 434.68 14-Mar-24 75.00 28-Nov-28 NIFEX 150.00 22-May-29 Current Price ($/N)20-Nov-29 200.00 BID($/N) 591.57 189.2625 23-Jul-30 OFFER ($/N) 189.3625 206.00 18-Jul-34

4,855.63

Coupon (%)

Rate (%) Bid Yield 9.17 14.04 12.76 14.57 15.87 15.39

Tenor

(%)

Bid ($/N)

Spot 7D 14D 1M Yield Offer 2M (%) 3M 6M12.15 1Y15.28

2.27 15.39 15.30 2.52 15.40 15.32 2.61 15.40 15.32 :Benchmarks 3.36 15.44 15.31 * :Amortising Bond 4.44 15.48 15.38 µ :Convertible Bond 4.76Management Corporation 15.50 15.39 AMCON: Asset of Nigeria 7.02 15.49 15.42 FGN: Federal Government of Nigeria 9.15Mortgage Bank of 15.56 15.50 FMBN: Federal Nigeria 13.86 Finance Corporation 14.47 14.42 IFC: International 14.34 14.33 Management 14.28 LCRM: Local Contractors Receivables NAHCO: Nigerian 14.84 Aviation Handling 14.20Company 14.13 O/N: Overnight 15.51 14.89 14.82 UPDC: UAC19.49 Property Development Company 15.23 15.18 NOTE:

WAPCO:West Africa Portland Cement Company

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

FMDQ FGN0.00 BOND INDEX 24.56

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

32.63

17.25 Weighting by Mkt 0.00/16.00 Value 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50

34.43

2.70 112.22 Bucket Weighting 116.70 66.49

1,012.86

1,034.18

3<5

1,366.73

1,365.98

43.09

46.46

562.26

769.57

24.28

19.11

310.100.24

2,941.85

3,169.73

100.00

1.00

Market

Sub-National Bonds

(N'bn)

Value

Rate (%) 10.1667 13.0795 14.3828 15.6973

Offer ($/N)

187.00 187.10 187.09 187.19 Price 187.38 187.52 188.07 188.53 Bid Price Offer Price 189.34 190.33 190.60 192.10 97.78 97.93 194.95 197.90 204.22 209.76 96.80 96.95

99.40 99.55 88.75 88.90 87.35 87.50 NA :Not Applicable 87.88 88.18 # :Floating Rate Bond 101.60 101.90 ***: Deferred coupon bonds 72.08 72.38 103.75under review104.05 ‡ : Bond rating 93.40expired 93.70 †: Bond rating 103.11 103.41 N/A :Not Available {r} :Issuer 88.86 in receivership 89.16 65.08 65.38 NGC: Nigeria-German Company 70.70 71.00 UBA: United Bank for Africa 81.21 80.91

4,420.27

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

Rating/Agency

Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M Outstanding

0.33

322.67

0.43

Maturity Date

24-May-15 03-Apr-17 % Exposure_ 09-Dec-16 Mod_Duration 20-Apr-17 06-Jul-17

13.61

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

0.34 1.21 1.89 Implied Yield 2.25 2.46

15.39

# Risk Premium (%)

2.63 2.27 Implied 2.00 Portfolio 1.00 Price 1.00

117.2928

Valuation Yield (%)

15.99 17.96 17.40 INDEX 16.39 16.39

1,114.04

Indicative Price

94.77 99.34 YTD Return 97.88 (%) 96.31 93.11

0.5591

45.83

15.51

119.3970

1,011.01 -

40.56

14.98

86.4459

1,010.70

0.1543 0.3663

100.00

15.28

110.7104

1,057.19

0.1899

A+/Agusto

KADUNA

12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015

31-Aug-10

12.50

8.50

31-Aug-15

0.61

4.44

19.21

96.25

A/Agusto

*EBONYI

13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015

30-Sep-10

13.00

4.18

30-Sep-15

0.45

3.23

17.34

98.88

A-/Agusto

*BENUE

14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-11

14.00

4.86

30-Jun-16

0.97

4.46

20.22

94.97

‡ /Agusto

*IMO

15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-09

15.50

5.73

30-Jun-16

0.97

3.48

19.25

97.05

‡ /Agusto; ‡ /GCR

LAGOS

10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017

19-Apr-10

10.00

57.00

19-Apr-17

2.25

1.00

16.39

88.33

‡ /Agusto

*BAYELSA

13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017

30-Jun-10

13.75

25.73

30-Jun-17

1.51

1.00

16.46

96.67

‡ /Agusto

EDO

14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017

30-Dec-10

14.00

25.00

31-Dec-17

2.95

1.79

17.21

92.79

‡ /Agusto; A+/GCR

*DELTA

14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018

30-Sep-11

14.00

34.14

30-Sep-18

2.12

1.80

17.19

94.70

‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR

NIGER

14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018

04-Oct-11

14.00

9.00

04-Oct-18

3.71

1.00

16.46

93.31

‡ /Agusto; A-/GCR†

*EKITI

14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018

09-Dec-11

14.50

13.73

09-Dec-18

2.32

1.00

16.39

96.70

Daily Summary as of 19/01/2015

Business | Capital Market

Printed 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH Daily Summary as of 19/01/2015 Printed 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046

Daily Summary (Bonds)

The Nigerian Stock Market Exchange as at January 19, 2014

No Debt Trading Activity

Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

HEALTHCARE HEALTHCARE Totals

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

No. of Deals 1 53 4 58

Current Price 0.50 25.46 29.70

Quantity Traded 430 556,874 3,689 560,993

Value Traded 215.00 13,520,699.83 105,446.30 13,626,361.13

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 17 17

Current Price 2.28

Quantity Traded 464,844 464,844

Value Traded 1,037,259.62 1,037,259.62

1,025,837

14,663,620.75

Quantity Traded 147,000 66,534 29,141,097 2,363,495 31,718,126

Value Traded 184,300.00 61,211.28 88,379,360.88 76,836,214.30 165,461,086.46

31,718,126

165,461,086.46

AGRICULTURE Totals CONGLOMERATES Diversified Industries Daily Summary as of 19/01/2015 A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. Printed 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046 JOHN HOLT PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals

75 Symbol AGLEVENT JOHNHOLT TRANSCORP UACN

No. of Deals 7 4 198 75 284

Current Price 1.25 0.96 3.04 32.52

Daily Summary (Equities)

CONGLOMERATES Totals

284

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Building Structure/Completion/Other COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals

Page

Symbol COSTAIN

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 0.64

Quantity Traded 151,958 151,958

Value Traded 97,783.12 97,783.12

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

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 24 24

Current Price 44.49

Quantity Traded 110,735 110,735

Value Traded 4,780,230.20 4,780,230.20

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

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 32 32

Current Price 8.50

Quantity Traded 739,842 739,842

Value Traded 6,278,948.08 6,278,948.08

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) UPDC REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) Totals

Symbol UPDCREIT

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 10.00

Quantity Traded 5,800 5,800

Value Traded 58,000.00 58,000.00

1,008,335

11,214,961.40

Quantity Traded 486,890 237,795 2,615 3,556,740 4,284,040

Value Traded 3,023,679.40 30,182,709.97 55,272.50 509,301,024.88 542,562,686.75

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals DailyCONSUMER Summary asGOODS of 19/01/2015 Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Printed 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046 CHAMPION BREW. PLC. GUINNESS NIG PLC INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals

64 Symbol No. of Deals CHAMPION 20 GUINNESS 71 INTBREW 4 Daily NB Summary (Equities) 176 271

Current Price 6.19 126.00 21.89 146.00

IT Services COMPUTER WAREHOUSE GROUP PLC IT Services Totals Processing Systems CHAMS PLC E-TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC Processing Systems Totals Daily Summary as of 19/01/2015 ICT Totals 14:56:46.046 Printed 19/01/2015

of 12 Value Traded 8,940,903.70 8,940,903.70

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON

No. of Deals 37 59 85 12 35 228

Current Price 3.88 5.28 37.00 3.00 6.18

Quantity Traded 342,582 1,156,298 1,531,235 174,086 564,000 3,768,201

Value Traded 1,284,736.64 6,103,966.20 56,769,165.05 525,832.39 3,488,310.23 68,172,010.51

Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 27 62 89

Current Price 39.90 855.00

Quantity Traded 276,455 113,029 389,484

Value Traded 11,040,217.53 96,657,675.18 107,697,892.71

Symbol VITAFOAM

No. of Deals 21 21

Current Price 3.60

Quantity Traded 255,082 255,082

Value Traded 922,275.20 922,275.20

Symbol No. of Deals Daily PZ Summary (Equities) 45 UNILEVER 32 77

Current Price 25.11 32.80

Quantity Traded 357,892 237,423 595,315

Value Traded 9,017,462.40 7,779,757.21 16,797,219.61

FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC BANK NIG.PLC. Daily SummaryUNION as of 19/01/2015 UNITY BANK PLC Printed 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046 WEMA BANK PLC. ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AIICO INSURANCE PLC.

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

FINANCIAL SERVICES Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CORNERSTONE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC. EQUITY ASSURANCE PLC. INSURANCE PLC. Published byGUINEA The Nigerian Stock Exchange © CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. LAW UNION AND ROCK INS. PLC. MANSARD INSURANCE PLC MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. PRESTIGE ASSURANCE CO. PLC. REGENCY ALLIANCE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC SOVEREIGN TRUST INSURANCE PLC STANDARD TRUST ASSURANCE PLC STANDARD ALLIANCE INSURANCE PLC. UNIVERSAL INSURANCE COMPANY PLC Daily Summary as of 19/01/2015 WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Printed 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046 Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals

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

Symbol CONTINSURE CORNERST EQUITYASUR GUINEAINS HMARKINS INTENEGINS LASACO LAWUNION MANSARD MBENEFIT NEM NIGERINS PRESTIGE REGALINS SOVRENINS STACO STDINSURE UNIVINSURE WAPIC

Current Price 5.25 4.20 15.19 1.34 19.68 2.30 2.40 3.66 8.60 0.50 0.97 17.30

Quantity Traded 39,674,158 28,351,251 1,660,798 8,376,480 23,115,904 1,547,734 609,758 18,716,849 971,915 10,900 2,987,271 15,816,387 141,839,405

Value Traded 206,657,807.53 119,032,727.14 25,360,302.31 11,206,269.04 453,619,677.43 3,553,005.99 1,458,977.94 68,624,732.00 8,387,510.75 5,450.00 2,761,841.54 273,612,162.79 1,174,280,464.46

No. of Deals 25

Current Price 0.78

Quantity Traded 2,434,226

Value Traded 1,882,509.27

No. of Deals 2 2 2 2 1 1 2 2 3 5 28 1 2 2 3 1 1 1 20 106

Current Price 0.89 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 2.85 0.50 0.57 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.57

Quantity Traded 5,000 530 723 1,115 Page 430 333 1,545 400 1,100 141,537,139 1,082,263 30,000 1,000 336 446,630 900 900 430 1,293,504 146,838,504

Value Traded 4,450.00 265.00 361.50 557.50 4 of 215.00 166.50 772.50 200.00 3,289.00 70,768,569.50 590,490.75 15,000.00 500.00 168.00 223,315.00 450.00 450.00 215.00 737,397.28 74,229,341.80

No. of Deals 2 Daily Summary (Equities) 2

Current Price 0.80

Quantity Traded 3,469 3,469

Value Traded 2,913.96 2,913.96

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 215 215

Value Traded 107.50 107.50

No. of Deals 32 8 554 101 4 39 40 778

Current Price 2.81 3.80 7.70 2.12 0.50 25.12 1.51

Quantity Traded 712,443 589,047 27,529,525 44,938,118 25,130 2,289,405 958,121 77,041,789

Value Traded 1,999,026.21 2,222,688.13 216,341,443.16 94,979,357.24 12,566.60 59,803,316.35 1,433,389.26 376,791,786.95

365,723,382

1,625,304,614.67

Quantity Traded 540,530 242,094 54,800 168,500 16,154 10,000 1,032,078

Value Traded 1,785,238.80 9,529,083.00 82,748.00 113,712.00 97,085.54 22,400.00 11,630,267.34

Symbol NPFMCRFBK

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Page

FINANCIAL SERVICES Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC. Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals 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

Symbol UNHOMES Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FBNH FCMB ROYALEX STANBIC UBCAP

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC NIGERIA-GERMAN CHEMICALS PLC. PHARMA-DEKO PLC. Pharmaceuticals Totals

2,530 Symbol FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH NIG-GERMAN PHARMDEKO

No. of Deals 6 20 13 10 6 5 60

Current Price 3.30 40.00 1.58 0.69 6.32 2.24

Page

Current Price 4.13

Quantity Traded 50 50

Value Traded 196.50 196.50

Symbol CHAMS ETRANZACT

No. of Deals 2 1 3

Current Price 0.50 3.39

Quantity Traded 6,290 100 6,390

Value Traded 3,145.00 323.00 3,468.00

503,840

252,364.50 Value Traded 1,028,874.31 95,760.00

Current Price 20.40 9.00

Quantity Traded 49,568 11,200

Symbol CAP CCNN DANGCEM FIRSTALUM PORTPAINT WAPCO

No. of Deals 15 23 114 1 3 33 213

Current Price 36.00 9.00 156.00 0.50 3.89 79.80

Quantity Traded 44,250 Page 352,300 1,258,275 3,900 2,050 288,909 2,010,452

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

Symbol CUTIX

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 1.47

Quantity Traded 60,166 60,166

Value Traded 88,206.36 88,206.36

Packaging/Containers AVON CROWNCAPS & CONTAINERS Packaging/Containers Totals

Symbol AVONCROWN

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.59

Quantity Traded 16,219 16,219

Value Traded 25,788.21 25,788.21

2,086,837

223,939,205.35

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials CAP PLC CEMENT CO.Stock OF NORTH.NIG. Published by The Nigerian Exchange © PLC DANGOTE CEMENT PLC FIRST ALUMINIUM NIGERIA PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE AFRICA PLC. Building Materials Totals

220 Symbol JAPAULOIL Symbol OANDO

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 55,490 55,490

Value Traded 27,745.00 27,745.00

No. of Deals 178

Current Price 16.45

Quantity Traded 9,814,999

Value Traded 161,335,421.95 8

No. of Deals 178

Current Price

Quantity Traded 9,814,999

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

Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS TOTAL

No. of Deals 5 13 82 15 2 14 131

Current Price 38.11 2.60 227.22 157.06 53.20 144.00

Quantity Traded 2,320 242,152 407,532 7,539 185 7,220 666,948

Value Traded 84,007.20 628,719.18 92,450,694.04 1,127,594.36 9,349.90 1,049,661.27 95,350,025.95

Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Exploration and Production Totals

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 37 37

Current Price 311.00

Quantity Traded 1,177,393 1,177,393

Value Traded 365,530,739.00 365,530,739.00

11,714,830

622,243,931.90

R T BRISCOE PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC.

352 Symbol RTBRISCOE

Value Traded 161,335,421.95

No. of Deals 15 15

Current Price 0.80

Quantity Traded 500,000 500,000

Value Traded 400,000.00 400,000.00

Symbol No. of Deals Daily Summary (Equities)

Current Price 3.99 1.02

Quantity Traded 100 312

Value Traded 398.00 333.84

REDSTAREX TRANSEXPR

1 1

Page

Courier/Freight/Delivery Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals

Symbol

No. of Deals 2

Current Price

Quantity Traded 412

Value Traded 731.84

Employment Solutions C & I LEASING PLC. Employment Solutions Totals

Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 5,129 5,129

Value Traded 2,564.50 2,564.50

Hospitality TANTALIZERS PLC Hospitality Totals

Symbol TANTALIZER

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 100 100

Value Traded 50.00 50.00

Hotels/Lodging IKEJA HOTEL PLC TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC Hotels/Lodging Totals

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL TRANSCOHOT

No. of Deals 15 16 31

Current Price 3.11 10.00

Quantity Traded 760,100 105,250 865,350

Value Traded 2,528,325.00 1,051,500.00 3,579,825.00

Media/Entertainment DAAR COMMUNICATIONS PLC Media/Entertainment Totals

Symbol DAARCOMM

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 4,000 4,000

Value Traded 2,000.00 2,000.00

Symbol LEARNAFRCA UPL

No. of Deals 3 11 14

Current Price 1.34 3.81

Quantity Traded 30,000 245,900 275,900

Value Traded 38,400.00 942,019.00 980,419.00

No. of Deals 3

Current Price 0.53

Quantity Traded 173,450

Value Traded 91,928.50

Daily Summary as of 19/01/2015 Printing/Publishing Printed 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046

LEARN AFRICA PLC UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC. Printing/Publishing Totals

Road Transportation ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © SERVICES

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol ABCTRANS

Page

Road Transportation Road Transportation Totals

Symbol

No. of Deals 3

Current Price

Quantity Traded 173,450

Value Traded 91,928.50

Transport-Related Services AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals

Symbol AIRSERVICE NAHCO

No. of Deals 3 19 22

Current Price 1.65 5.00

Quantity Traded 2,050 255,719 257,769

Value Traded 3,386.50 1,264,478.04 1,267,864.54

Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC Support and Logistics Totals

Symbol CAVERTON

No. of Deals 5 5

Current Price 3.00

Quantity Traded 5,300 5,300

Value Traded 15,350.00 15,350.00

2,087,410

6,340,733.38

4,390

426,248,121

3,426,143,774.23

Quantity Traded 30 30

Value Traded 50.10 50.10

50.10

SERVICES Totals

EQTY Board Totals

Page

Symbol

OIL AND GAS Totals

Value Traded 1,639,782.50 7 3,227,477.44 of 12 194,799,774.97 1,950.00 8,252.50 23,023,339.06 223,825,210.78

No. of Deals 6 6

Daily Summary (Equities)

ANDNigerian GAS Stock Exchange © PublishedOIL by The Integrated Oil and Gas Services Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals

Daily Summary as of 19/01/2015 SERVICES Printed 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046 Automobile/Auto Part Retailers

745,092,988.48 3 of 12

No. of Deals 243 140 66 94 523 53 19 227 33 2 26 217 1,643

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol AIICO

9,347,446 Page

No. of Deals 1 1

No. of Deals 22 2

Activity Summary on Board EQTY 702

Symbol CWG

Symbol

Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC

Food Products DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NATIONAL SALT CO. NIG. PLC Food Products Totals

Value Traded 248,700.00 248,700.00

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals

Current Price 162.00

Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Quantity Traded 497,400 497,400

BERGER

Daily Summary as of 19/01/2015 AND GAS PrintedOIL 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046 Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals

No. of Deals 16 16

Household Durables Totals

Current Price 0.50

Activity Summary on Board EQTY 12

Symbol 7UP

Daily Summary as of 19/01/2015 Household Durables Printed 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046 VITAFOAM NIG PLC.

11,630,267.34

No. of Deals 2 2

ASHAKACEM Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Page Quantity Traded 55,324 55,324

1,032,078

Symbol COURTVILLE

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC

Activity Summary on Board EQTY CONSUMER GOODS Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals

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

Daily Summary of 19/01/2015 Activity as Summary on Board ASeM Printed 19/01/2015 14:56:46.046 SERVICES Food/Drug Retailers and Wholesalers JULI PLC. Food/Drug Retailers and Wholesalers Totals

Daily Summary (Equities)

Symbol JULI

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.75

Daily Summary (Equities)

SERVICES Totals

Equity Activity Totals

Page

4,391

426,248,151

50.10

3,426,143,824.33

Daily Summary (ETP) Exchange Traded Fund

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

Symbol LOTUSHAL15 NEWGOLD STANBICETF30 VETGRIF30

No. of Deals 1 2 1 1 5

Current Price 9.07 2,287.00 100.00 13.46

Quantity Traded 5 24 10 7 46

Value Traded 45.35 54,904.00 1,000.00 94.22 56,043.57

ETF Board Totals

56,043.57

ETP Activity Totals

56,043.57

Page

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Features

Curtailing illegal arms stockpile in Edo In the countdown to the February general election, politicians are stockpiling arms in Edo State, writes CAJETAN MMUTA

n Nigeria, high level crimes have become the order of the day. Armed robbery, rape, theft, fraud, defilement, vandalism of public property, burglary, membership of secret societies, assassination and other unwholesome practices in the name of quest for power and protection are now rife. Relevant bodies and individuals responsible for the protection of lives and property of the citizens have lost grip of their statutory roles and in the process joined the crowd of those to be protected. To protect themselves, some people now resort to self-help. Indications are that of a failing state. It seems everything is at war with itself and violence has taken the centre-stage. Leaders and the led have lost sense of responsibility. Indeed, the centre no longer holds. Every corner is dripping with the blood of defenceless masses who everyday watch in shock the utter destruction of human lives and property. The general election is a few weeks away, with ominous uncertainties. Guns are booming in parts of the country amid prophesies of doom. There is a reverberating echo of unanswered questions to the nation’s security system over the worrisome silence on arms build-up in the hands of wrong individuals seeking or being assisted to seek elective positions. Political thugs are waiting with eagerness. Recently, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Foluso Adebanjo, issued a 14-day ultimatum to politicians, suspected thugs, cult members and supporters of various political parties to surrender all illegal arms in their possession or face the full wrath of law. The warning by the police chief is seen to be timely as Nigerians prepare for the general election. Crime statics by police show that there is massive build-up of arms by some unscrupulous politicians, hired thugs, cult groups and other undesirable elements out to cause mayhem ahead of the polls in the state. Adebanjo said the possession of such illegal arms was unauthorised by the force. The alarm by the command co-

ABIODUN BELLO FEATURES Editor

abiodun. bello@newtelegraphonline.com

Arms and ammunition

incided with the parade of 76 suspects arrested for various criminal activities such as robbery, rape and defilement, kidnapping, fraud, production of adulterated drinks, car theft, manufacture and possession of illegal firearms and cultism, among others in parts of the state. Adebanjo said: “The anti-robbery and other special squads have been directed to identify, raid and confiscate such illegal weapons and prosecute offenders in competent law courts. “Unconfirmed intelligence at our disposal indicates massive build-up of arms and ammunition by some politicians, hired thugs, violent cult groups and other undesirable individuals to cause mayhem if they do not win.” The police chief warned criminals and their collaborators of the consequences if they failed to heed the warning. He added: “The possession of illegal weapons is unauthorised. Everyone in the state, irrespective of their status, should surrender to the office of the commissioner of police within a period of 14 days all illegally acquired weapons in their possession. “Failure to adhere to this ultimatum will spell danger for anyone arrested with such illegal weapons.” The commissioner reiterated the resolve of his command to ensure the protection of lives and property before, during and after the polls and therefore urged the public to provide the command useful information that would lead to the arrest of suspected hoodlums. Adebanjo promised a reward for any vital information volunteered by anybody towards the arrest and recovery of arms and ammunition in the hands of suspects. He said: “Insecurity is a threat not only to the fast approaching elections, but to the security and wellbeing of the citizens as well as business activities in the state. It is my duty and responsibility to tackle it squarely with the active support and participation of other security agencies and the good people of Edo State. “Together we must ensure peace and security in the state and that the 2015

Adebanjo

elections are violence-free.” Aside the proactive steps by officers and men of the command to check activities of criminals and their collaborators to make life bearable for the residents, police recover 21 assorted cars stolen from individuals and arms of various types and sizes as well as cash during raids. Also, a few months ago, thugs loyal to one of the political parties descended on the residents of legislators’ quarters on Ihama Road at the Government Reserved Area (GRA) where they smashed more than 28 exotic cars and destroyed other valuables belonging to the legislators. Also, violence has been visited on several communities where land disputes, cult related activities and youth rivalries have been the order of the day. It is instructive to note that while these unfortunate incidents occur with impact on families, individuals and groups must not sit on the fence as miscreants take over. The various villages, communities and local governments, according to observers, must rise to the challenges through concerted efforts of well-articulated activities of vigilance groups whose membership must earn public

confidence. Such groups, they added, must, with proper coordination, regularly assist the police and other security agencies to reduce crime. Parents as well as the residents of designated areas within the villages, communities and towns must be alert to their responsibilities of cautioning their wards against any indulgence in unwholesome practices, the observers added. Also, bearing in mind that Edo is a gateway to other states in the South-East, North and South-South zones, the task of policing the state and its environment must not be left in the hands of police and other security agencies alone. There is, no doubt, that the state government under Governor Adams Oshiomhole has taken steps to stem the wave of crime and criminals in the state by setting up anti-crime outfit, ‘Operation Thunderstorm,’ manned by armed policemen and soldiers as well as providing hundreds of patrol trucks with modern communication gadgets. While this is commendable, the efforts should not limited to the constitution of teams alone, there should be measures to always x-ray those entrusted with this enormous task in order to weed out bad eggs among them. This is necessary as it has often been indicated that some individuals among the crop of security agencies have wrongly been recruited. During the police-Ombatse cult war, Boko Haram-military onslaught and jail-breaks in parts of the country, it was discovered that professional officers entrusted with the statutory responsibility of protection of lives and property were the ones giving out vital information to the agents of death and criminal elements. In the past, criminals have been released from detention or custody through the aid of top and low uniformed men. More importantly too, the police, the military, the Department of State Security (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security outfits must purge themselves and also take decisive steps to rid the various communities of illegal arms. The time to do this is now as Nigeria and Nigerians go to the polls in February.

FEATURES

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

NAOWA’s gift of love to widows The National President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Felly Minimah, recently put smiles on the faces of widows of officers and men killed by Boko Haram, reports FLORA ONWUDIWE

everal women were seated under the canopies at the parade ground of the 9 Brigade of Ikeja Cantonment, 149 Battalion Ojo Cantonment and 35 Artillery Brigade, Alamala Barracks, in Abeokuta. With straight faces and a stare in no particular direction, it was easily seen that they were not happy. They had every reason to be unhappy because their soul-mates, husbands, companions and pillars of support are no more. Some of them have lived with such wounds for several months and have had difficulties battling with enormous challenges of life they have been made to face since the terror attacks in the North-East began. The experience has not been palatable to the women and the children, whose fathers are no longer there to give them fatherly love and care. About 127 of the widows of officers and men killed by terrorists from 2012 to 2014 had a reason to smile. Wife of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Mrs Felly Minimah, and 18 others members in her entourage, who came from Abuja, donated bags of rice, tubers of yam, wrappers, coolers, groundnuts oil, cartons of noodles, sachets of salt, packs of detergent, among others, to the widows. Minimah, who is also the president of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), also had soothing words for the widows. According to her, their husbands are not dead rather they are missing in action. For other officers and men still on the battle fronts, she prayed for them to return home alive. The NAOWA president pointed out that there is a symbiotic relationship between officers and men. She said: “Soldiers are important to the officers, without the soldiers, the officers cannot work and that is why we are concerned about the soldiers’ wives.” Minimah implored them to give their children good training and stop engaging in idle gossip. For soldiers who rose to the rank of RSM or Warrant Officer, she said now the Army has promised that when they are retiring from service they will go home with a car and other benefits so that they can start another life outside the barracks. In an interview with journalists, she said it was part of her maiden familiarisation tour of Army units. According to her, the tour was

Mrs Amosun (right) welcoming Mrs Minimah during the visit.

also to get acquainted with the wives of officers and men in the barracks as well to reach out to the widows and the less privileged. She said: “What you are seeing here today is in accordance with the aim and objectives of the association. I am here to put smile on their faces and make them feel good because their beloved are no more. But with NAOWA here we want to make them to know that without their beloved we are here to cater for them.” During the tour, Minimah also inaugurated a school, because, according to her, child education is her priority. She said: “Since I took over as NAOWA national president, child education has been my priority in the barracks. Education is the best legacy parents can give to their children. “I am glad that the Almighty God is using me mightily and I know by the grace of God I will do more and I pray that God will give me the grace to do more than what I am doing.” Minimah said NAOWA, as a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), would empower women to be self-sufficient and self-employed after training them on various skills such as hairdressing, beads making, tailoring and catering, among others. “I am giving them fish; I will also teach them how to fish,” she added. Minimah also paid a courtesy visit to the wife of Ogun State governor, Mrs Olufunsho Amosun. She was received by the governor’s wife, Commissioners for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Elizabeth Sonubi, and Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mrs Funke Oladipo. The NAOW president, however, told her host that humanitarian activities of the organisation were not limited to those in the barracks. According to her, members of surrounding communities, such as women, children and the less privileged, benefit from the organisation’s gestures. She said: “We are working hard to make an impact on Nigerian women, the less privileged and the needy. We are in Ogun State on charity outreach to widows, children of our befallen heroes and other victims who lost their lives during the on-going insurgency in the country. “A visit of this magnitude will not be complete without paying hom-

A widow, who is also a nursing mother, Mrs Kate Dennis (right), receiving a gift from Mrs Minimah at Ojo Cantonment, Lagos.

Some of the beneficiaries at Ikeja Cantonment, Lagos.

Soldiers are important to the officers, without the soldiers, the officers cannot work and that is why we are concerned about the soldiers’ wives

age to the host community. We have confidence that you will remain a helping hand to our enabling efforts towards alleviating the suffering of widows, children and other victims of insurgency in Nigeria.” Responding, Amosun said NAOWA’s activities were in line with those of her NGO, Uplift Foundation. She said: “It is nice to appreciate women who are in similar roles, because we all understand and we know what it takes to be pillar of support behind men. “We know that our husbands are always out there working, striving to better our nation, Nigeria and you have to hold the home fronts. “It is also extremely nice to realise that despite all this, you have been able to form a formidable association – NAOWA. It is a powerful NGO. You

said that you are here on outreach to the widows, children and families that were displaced due to the insurgency. “We know of some NGOs whose leaders are fashionable in their attires without any impact on society. “To note that despite the way you look so radiant and beautiful, you stand for something worthwhile. You have got up to reach out to people who are in need and for me that makes it really wonderful. “It is in line with the things I believe in as an individual - that whenever you can lead to lend a helping hand to whoever it is in the society then you should. This is what you have demonstrated today.” Amosun also made a cash donation to NAOWA. She added: “This cash donation is for outstanding things that you need for the displaced families. It is a worthy course that I would like to be identified with. “There are so many of them out there. Anytime we hear of bomb blast, as human beings we feel terrible, we think of the lost lives. “But I am not sure that we think and focus on what transcends beyond those that lose their lives those that no longer have people that provide for them. We can only depend on people like you who get up from various homes and actually are doing something about it.” The officers’ wives were entertained by cultural dancers both in Lagos and Abeokuta. At the end, Minimah was presented with gifts in appreciation of her kind gestures. It ended with a cocktail at the Officers’ Mess, Bonny Camp, Lagos.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY JANUARY 20, 2015

News 47

SOUTH-EAST

We will deliver Anambra to Jonathan, says Uba Tony Okafor AKWA

he senatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra South district, Chief Chris Uba, yesterday declared that the state would deliver over 95 per cent votes to President Goodluck Jonathan in next month’s general election. Uba, who spoke at his Udoka Guest House, Awka, Anambra State, said he would commence state-wide mobilisation of the people of the district and state on Wednesday for that purpose, stating that his reason for supporting the ambition of President Jonathan was to ensure a united Nigerian nation as well as ensure continuity in the good works embarked upon by the administration. He maintained that the Jonathan administration had good intentions for Nigerians, especially the South- East, which would be actualised if re-elected. On why he is vying for the senate seat, he

said he had progressive ideas that would radically transform the people’s lives in his constituency, Anambra State and Ndigbo in gen-

15%

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

eral if voted as a senator. He said over the years, he had noticed that those who had represented the area were not as active as they were expected

to be. “I’m going to the senate to bring about a radical change and progressive representation for the people.

The life expectancy of men at birth in Guadeloupe in 2010-2015. Source: Un.org

“In Nigeria, more often than not, you won’t be noticed if you continually choose to be a “gentleman”. “Sometimes you need to be a

1,109

The number of refugees in Guinea-Bissau at the beginning of 2010. Source: Un.org

radical to achieve positive results. “You need to stand up to be counted. Like they say ‘equity does not aid the indolent, “ he said.

220,000

The projected number of Americans above 65 years with Alzheimer’s in Michigan by 2025. Source: Alz.org

Chief Executive Officer, Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA), Joe Billy Ekwunife; Nigeria’s Ambassador to Thailand, Ambassador Chudi Okafor and Thailand’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Chailert Limsomboon, at the arrival of the Thailand business community delegations in Awka, Anambra State

Otti accused of aiming at debt Obi assures Nigerians on Second Niger Bridge completion the extent of work on the project to the South-East using the bridge as proGovernor of recovery for Diamond Bank Former Anambra State and the Second Niger bridge say- and Nigeria at large, he, paganda to know that

Norman Obinna

he All Progressives Grand Alliance, (APGA), governorship candidate in Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, has been accused of being on a debt recovery mission for Diamond Bank, with his political ambition of becoming the governor of the state. Most Abia State civil servants and residents are said to be skeptical about the sincerity of the former chief executive of the bank, which the Abia State government is alleged to be indebted to, to the tune of N8.5bn accruing from N500 million loan granted to each of the 17 local Governments of the state. This amount is alleged to be exclusive of $250m bond given to Abia State government in 2010 by Diamond bank under Otti’s watch as the Managing Director. Some civil servants in Abia State who spoke to our reporter on condition of anonymity claimed that they were unable to receive their November and December salaries, accusing Otti and Diamond bank of seizing Abia State allocations paid into the bank. According to them, Otti was part of the conspiracy that slowed down develop-

mental projects in Abia State but fell-out with the government, when he realized there was a plot to deny him the Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship ticket which he was promised as a reward for his loyalty to the government of Abia State. The last minute disappointment from Abia State PDP-2led government not to honour its side of the bargain to make him the Governor of Abia State, was said to have angered Otti, who in collaboration with APGA National Chairman, Chief Victor Umeh, got the APGA ticket. through the back door leading to the gubernatorial primary crisis that produced three candidates; Mr. Udo Ahaiwe, Chief Regan Ufomba and Dr. Alex Otti respectively. “Most of us Abia civil servants are suspicious of Otti’s slogan of change. He is a known PDP member and a good friend of the people in the corridors of power in Abia State. Where was he all this while? Is he not one of our elder statesmen; have you seen him criticize the state government before except now that he is vying to become governor?” a source in Umuahia North LGA said.

Deputy Director General, South of the PDP National Campaign Council, Mr. Peter Obi has backed President Goodluck Jonathan, on his promise to complete the Second Niger Bridge, as well as other projects being executed by his government in other parts of the country. Obi, who spoke to newsmen after a campaign in Onitsha, expressed joy at

ing, “During the SouthEast campaign, Mr. President led stakeholders from the zone to inspect works on the ongoing project. The seriousness of the company, Julius Berger, handling the project is not in doubt as work already done is visible, including the pilling which is currently on.” Obi, said that due to the importance of the

along other stakeholders also inspected the facilities of the company after the departure of the President, and were happy at the progress achieved so far by Julius Berger on the project. Obi, said the visit had dispelled the position in some quarters that work was yet to start on the bridge, appealing to those who resorted to

completion of the project earlier planned for between 4 and 5 years has not taken up to a year after its commencement. He said, “For the opposition All Progressives Congress that is criticizing this, they have forgotten that they planned to deliver a Monorail for Lagos in two years. 16 years after of its government, the project is yet to be delivered”.

Crisis rocks Anambra community APGA unveils ex-NCC over illegal oil exploration boss as Senate candidate Okegwo Kenechukwu

risis is to looming in Umerike Na Umia Village of Umolum, an oil producing community of Anambra State. Angry youth in the village are protesting against an alleged illegal oil deal involving a Priest and a retired Head master and an oil company in the area, Orient Petroleum. The youths were said to have alleged that the Priest Rev. Fr Ben Okwuife Eboh and the ex- Headmaster Chief Anthony Makwudo, had recently invited some people believed to be workers of Orient Petroleum to the site of oil reserve in the community for the purpose of exploration without the consent of the elders and

the youth in the Anyamelum Local Government Area of Anambra state. The youths in a peaceful protest match to the oil wells at Otu Umolum, had sought for the oil workers without success. They however, marched to the resident of the Rev. where they demanded to know the identity of the visitors and the purpose of their visit. Addressing the youths, Rev. Eboh, said that the visitors were not workers of Orient petroleum, stating that they came to install a power generating plant that will supply electricity to Orient Petroleum Refinery at Nsugbe in Anambra East Local Government, adding that Orient petroleum workers would work on the project if it is formal.

Tony Okafor AWKA

he All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) will today officially present the former Executive Vice Chairman of Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Engr. Ernest Ndukwe, as its senatorial candidate for Anambra South district. The ceremony which will take place at the Ekwulobia Township Stadium in Aguata Local Government Area of the state would also feature the presentation of other candidates of the party. Speaking with reporters in Oraifite ,Ekwusigo Local Government Area, Ndukwe debunked the claim that

he did not help his people when he was with the NCC. He said, “It is not true that I have not been active in my area, I have been involved in giving out scholarships to people, I have also been involved in making sure that we have security in my own little way, so whoever says such is a liar”. He said that Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano and the National Chairman of the party, Chief Victor Umeh, would spearhead the zonal rally at Ekwulobia. Ndukwe, said he decided to contest the senatorial election to bring new things to his people, who he claimed had not been represented very well in the past.

News

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

SOUTH - SOUTH

Ex-militants raise the alarm over threat to lives

ome for mer militants on the platform of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) have raised the alarm over alleged threats to their lives by some persons allegedly masquerading as leaders of MEND. That is over the failure to declare support for the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Muhammadu Buhari. The former militant leaders, Reuben Wilson, popularly known as Gen.

Pastor and Paul Eris, also known as Ogunboss, have called on security operatives in the country to ensure the safety of their lives before, during and after next month’s election, just as they said that they would not be intimidated into supporting president Goodluck Jonathan. It could be recalled that Jomo Gbomo, the spokesman of MEND had last week issued a statement to the media,

calling the President of the forum of all former militant camp leaders in the Niger Delta, the Leadership, Peace and Cultural Development Initiative and Ogunboss, to withdraw their avowed support for Jonathan and support Buhari or face the consequences. In the statement, Gbomo had said that Jonathan was a failure and did not do anything for his people in Bayelsa, nor did he also

perform as a Nigerian president to deserve the support of the former militant leaders. Gbomo, had warned them to watch their back, reconsider their stance against Buhari and retrace their steps. But Wilson, said yesterday that the former militant leaders would neither dump Jonathan nor support Buhari as the countdown to the presidential election begins.

Wilson said: “My attention has been drawn to the threat to my life and that of Ogunboss, my fellow freedom fighter, by some people who parade as MEND fighters. Their condition is that we must denounce Jonathan and support Buhari whom they claim to be supporting for the 2015 election. “As much as I laugh over the threat, I am also worried because even though I know that

Oshiomhole chides PDP over failed promises Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

overnor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, yesterday chided the Peoples Democratic Party-led government for its failure to deliver on its numerous promises to Nigerians in the last 16 years. He said it was shameful that the PDP despite the huge resources available to it, could not keep hope alive to dredge the vital River Niger, to ensure constant electricity supply, improved security and create jobs to checkmate the increasing wave of unemployment in the country. Oshiomhole, who addressed a crowd of APC members and supporters at a campaign rally held in Etsako, East, West and Central local government areas of Edo north, urged Nigerians and people of the state to use their votes to ensure that President Goodluck Jonathan was not re-elected in the February 14th presidential election. He said Nigerians would use the Valentine Day celebration to usher in General Muhammadu Buhari as Nigeria’s new leader. The rally showcased the handover of party flag to all its candidates in the areas including Barrister Francis Alimekhena, (Edo North APC senatorial flag-bearer and Hon Philip Shaibu, (Etsako federal House of Representative candidate). According to him, “They promised to dredge River Niger and I asked you today, have they done it? But they have taken the money and it is finished. That is typical of PDP. Secondly, from 1999 in a national broadcast, PDP promised to fix NEPA, they had change more than ten minister since then."

L-R: Bayelsa State Coordinator, National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Mr Sunday Apakasa; representative of the Director-General, Mrs. Carol Godswill and Head of Administration, Bayelsa State Micro-Finance and Enterprise Development Agency, Mr. Fiekuma Gombo, at the NDE’s Skills Acquisition Training in Yenagoa …yesterday. PHOTO-NAN

Jonathan, Buhari divide Urhobo ANGER

Urhobo disagree with leaders over Delta governorship Gabriel Choba UGHELLI

head of the presidential election, the Urhobo nationality has been torn apart, as various Urhobo groups are said to have turned their back against the leadership of the Urhobo Progressive Union (UPU), over the implementation of

its “Uvwuiamuge declaration” which favours only a candidate of an Urhobo extraction, notwithstanding the political platform. The scale was said to have tilted towards the All Progressives Congress (APC), governorship candidate Olorogun O’tega Emerhor regarding the ‘’Uvwuiamuge declaration’’ as he remains the only candidate of Urhobo extraction. Speaking on the development, a strong pressure group in Delta Central known as Urhobo Integrity Group (UIG), in a statement yesterday called on the UPU to stop

playing politics of personal interest, urging that they should place the general interest of the Urhobo nation above any other. In a communiqué issued at a briefing in, Ethiope East Area of Delta state, signed by its National Chairman, Chief Frank Kokori, the group wondered why the UPU executive led by Chief Joe Omene should reverse the Urhobos’ earlier decision of voting for only the gubernatorial candidate from PDP or APC which produces the gubernatorial flag bearer from Urhobo.

Princewill: PDP didn’t create level playing field Emmanuel Masha PORT HARCOURT

he Governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Prince Tonye Princewill, has said that he dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), because the party refused to provide a level playing field for all the aspirants

that declared interest in the governorship candidacy. He said that he would have remained with the PDP to actualize his governorship ambition had the party not favoured Nyesom Wike, noting that he could not remain in the party because he genuinely wants to address the issue of pov-

erty, which he noted was his main point agenda. He said he was not against the entry of Wike in the race, but frowned at the way those in charge of the PDP in the state made it clear that they were out to make it very difficult for other aspirants to scale the hurdle of the primaries.

there is nobody bearing the name Jomo Gbomo any longer, after we left the creeks and accepted the amnesty offer of the Federal Government, the fact that this same group of people have declared support for the APC and Buhari gives us some concern. “We have always suspected that the so-called MEND’s endorsement of Buhari came from the APC and its agents because the name Jomo Gbomo is a name that anybody could use while we were in the creeks, fighting for the good of this country. We were the MEND commanders and we restate that having left the creeks, Jomo Gbomo also ceased to exist. If anybody is using Jomo Gbomo’s name to declare support for Buhari on behalf of MEND, that person must be an APC and a Buhari supporter. “We know that the APC is capable of doing anything to be able to win the February 14 election. We suspect that the threat is coming from the APC agents who are worried about our consistency in the support for Jonathan. We wish to inform them that we will not eat our vomit. Our support for Jonathan is constant and final. We cannot support Buhari no matter the threat to our life."

Ogboru, Emerhor, lobby UPU Dominic Adewole ASABA

he apex decision making body in Urhobo ethnic nationality, the Urhobo progressive Union (UPU) is said to be concluding arrangements to announce its decision on who to adopt as Urhobo nationality candidate for the February 28 governorship race in Delta State. The candidate, which is expected to emerge from one of the two arch-rivals of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, will slug it out with Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, the party’s flag-bearer. The union became aggrieved on December 8, last year, after Chief David Edevbie, the PDP’s candidate of Urhobo extraction lost to Okowa during PDP’s primary election. Since then, the union has been shuttling between the state and Abuja, consulting on possible ways of delivering any of their sons, irrespective of party affiliation. Meanwhile, the Direc-

tor of Media/Publicity for Okowa Campaign Organization, Dr. Festus Okubor yesterday at the Okowa campaign headquarters described the move as “anti-democratic”, maintaining that the union was not a political party but an ethno-centric group. New Telegraph gathered in Asaba yesterday that Chief Great Ogboru of the Labour Party (LP) and APC’s O’tega Emerhor, have swung into intensive lobbying among the 15 kingdoms making up Urhobo land to emerge as the adopted candidate. The President-General of the union, Chief Joe Omene, who spoke on the development in Mosogar, Ethiope West Local Government Area of the state said between January 24 and 25, the Urhobo candidate would be announced. He said: “It was no going to be UPU decision alone but Urhobo choice. It is the verdict of the Ighene (Urhobo Youths), women, Clergy, professionals, PresidentGenerals of the 15 kingdoms making up Urhobo nation, the Ivie of Urhobo land that will prevail.”

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Plateau PDP denies Tallen, Wapmuk as party members GOOD RIDDANCE

Party disowns defected members, saying they worked against it Musa Pam JOS

he Acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State, Chief Raymond Dabo, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of playing politics of blackmail. He also described the defection of the former Deputy Governor of the state, Pauline Tallen and the immediate past Director General of the Industrial Training Fund, Prof. Sambo Wapmuk, as deceit, claiming that they were not members of the PDP. The APC on Saturday during their presidential rally in Jos received some politicians who were said to have defected from the

PDP to APC in the state. The defectors led by a former deputy governor, who contested the governorship of the state on the platform of the Labour Party in 2011, Pauline Tallen, claimed that they defected to the APC with their teeming supporters. However, Dabo, in a press statement issued to newsmen yesterday, accused the APC of bringing together disgruntled forces that have worked against the party in the past and are working against the party to deceive Nigerians. According to him, “Those who allegedly defected from the PDP to the APC at the Jos Township Stadium, were members of the PDP in the past, who left the party to other parties that are no longer existing in the state, and decided they want to return to the PDP. But we insisted on due process, knowing they were coming with the plans of destabilising the party.”

News 49

NORTH

Yari: Buhari will end Boko Haram Idris Salisu GUSAU

amfara State Governor, Abdulaziz Yari, yesterday said the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, General Muhammad Buhari, has the experience and the wherewithal to end Boko Haram in the country. Speaking at the APC governorship campaign rally in Anka, the head-

quarters of Anka Local Government, Yari said the retired General will end the insurgency if elected president. He said the Boko Haram menace was man made and was intended to achieve certain political gains at the expense of innocent Nigerians. Yari said Buhari understood this and will swing into action immediately he was elected to end the menace and put an end to other social problems like cattle rustling, kidnap-

ping, among others. He said: “I tell you, all those behind the insurgency, no matter how highly placed, Buhari will not spare them.” Advancing reasons why the APC presidential candidate should be elected, Governor Yari said Buhari’s record of service to his father land was awesome and speaks for him. 'Hear is somebody who has served as a governor of North Eastern region,served as a minis-

ter of petroleum, Head of state, yet he has only two houses, one in Kaduna and the other in Daura his town “Buhari is an incorruptible Nigerian, who loves this country, so his critics should stop the campaign of calumny and blackmail against him. Yari insisted that Nigerians are fed up with the style and leadership of President Goodluck Jonathan, saying that the message on the lips of every Nigerian is change.

Kwara to pay sacked SURE-P workers Biodun Oyeleye ILORIN

ormer governor of Kwara State, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has assured workers of the Subsidy Reinvestment programme (SURE-P) that were sacked following their allegiance to the party that they will be paid latest by today. Saraki, who is the party's leader in the state, gave this cheering news while addressing APC supporters in Oyun Local Government during a campaign tour of the area. The state and the Federal Government have been at loggerheads over

alleged politicisation of the scheme, following the defection of operatives of the scheme from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in deference to the decision by Saraki, who is their political leader. Two coordinators of the scheme, Alhaji AbdulGaniyu Olododo (Kwara Central) and his counterpart in Kwara South, Alhaji Kola Yusuf, have at different times, openly accused the state Coordinator of the scheme, Chief Moses Ibeyemi, of replacing the names of PDP members who defected to APC. Ibiyemi however denied the allegations.

NBA seeks speedy resolution of judiciary workers’ strike Ahmed Miringa MAIDUGURI

he Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) in Borno State has appealed to relevant authorities in the judicial sector to ensure the speedy resolution of the judiciary workers’ strike, so that normal court activities will resume. The Chairman of the Maiduguri branch of the association, Abdulwasiu Alfa, made the appeal while delivering his speech during the Annual Law Week of the Maiduguri/Biu branches of the

association. Alfa lamented the shutting down of courts across the nation, saying it has hindered the administration of justice in the country. He said: “The security challenges have succeeded in crippling a substantial aspect of our means of livelihood; it has, in fact, threatened our values and essence. Today, legal practice is narrowed to the state capital only. No one gets briefs outside Maiduguri." Legal practitioners are very precarious and in a vulnerable situation.”

L-R: Deputy Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, Mr. Sanusi Gumau; Rector, Mr. Shuaibu Musa and Librarian, Mrs. Hajara Pisagih, at the institution's 3rd inaugural lecture series in Bauchi …yesterday. PHOTO-NAN

Shinkafi pledges to reinstate sacked workers Idris Salisu GUSAU

head of the February 14 general election, the People Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State has flagged off its campaign with a promise by the party’s gubernatorial candidate, Alhaji Mamuda Aliyu Shinkafi that if elected, he would recall all sacked workers in the state. The former governor, who was visibly elated, said part of his campaign promises is to ensure the recall of the over 10, 000 workers sacked by the current government in the state, three years after. Shinkafi, who lost to the present administration in 2011, assured the people that God willing, if he was voted again, such sacked workers would be recalled. He added that civil servants, who are currently undergoing hardship, would laugh again as their salaries and other

welfare packages would be enhanced. According to him, other sectors like agriculture, education and youth empowerment, would receive attention. He said the abandoned Zamfara State Agricultural Revolution Programme (ZACAREP) would be revived to enhance food production in the state. Speaking earlier on, the Minister of Finance (State), Ambassador Bashir Yuguda, Dr. Bello Haliru, the PDP North West Chairman and Zamfara Chairman of the PDP, Senator Hassan Nasiha, assured the party’s teeming supporters of PDP’s readiness to uplift the living standard of the people. Those at the occasion includes Minister of Defense, General Aliyu Mohammed Gusau, Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, former Sokoto State Governor, Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa and the PDP governorship candidate in the state, among others.

Baraje condemns Fayose over attack on Buhari Biodun Oyeleye ILORIN

chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and member of the Buhari/Osinbajo Campaign Organisation, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje, yesterday condemned the advertorial sponsored by the Ekiti State governor, Mr. Ayo Fayose, against APC presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari. The advertorial, which ran in some national newspapers, had put Buhari on the same list with

past Nigeria leaders from the North-West, who died in office, putting a question mark on Buhari and his ability to survive his term in office, if elected. Baraje, in a statement made available to newsmen in Ilorin, Kwara State, drew the attention of the Inspector-General of Police, the INEC chairman, the SSS and other security agents to the inflammatory statements originating from the PDP and its candidates, particularly Governor Fayose, noting that such comments could ignite crisis in the country.

Wada makes case for Jonathan Muhammad Bashir LOKOJA

ogi State Governor, Idris Wada, has assured the people that another term in office for President Goodluck Jonathan will help in consolidating on the rapid change so far witnessed in all sectors of the nation's economy. Wada also said that the continuity project being

clamoured for by wellmeaning Nigerians, will help in the stability of the country as all the programmes initiated by the president would have matured to fruition to meet the development needs of the country. Speaking in Kontagora, at the official flag off campaign for the 2015 general election, Wada in a goodwill message, said PDP remains a viable platform.

50 News

WORLD | News

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Abia traders, traditional rulers Kenyan police tear-gas protesting endorse PPA’s Udensi for governor children over playground Norman Obinna

bia State traders, under the auspices of Abia State Traders Association for Good Governance and some notable traditional rulers have endorsed the Progressive People Alliance, (PPA) gubernatorial candidate, Sir Chikwe Udensi, as the next governor of Abia State. The traders, who trooped out enmass on Sunday, at the PPA’s campaign headquarters, Okigwe road, Aba, Abia State, said their decision to endorse Udensi as the next

governor of Abia State was based on his unambiguous transformation agenda which will reposition Abia State as well as enhance trade especially in Aba, the commercial nerve centre of the Igbo. Towing the same line with the traders also are the traditional rulers of Obioma Ngwa, HRH, Eze Ananaba and the Udi of Ossa Ibeku HRH Eze Onuigbo. The two traditional rulers agreed with the traders that Udensi has the leadership qualities to move Abia State forward, even as they prayed for his success in the poll

come February 28. Speaking on behalf of the 28 market executives present at the occasion, Chief Okaka said Abia traders, especially Aba have suffered untold harassments, hardship and neglect from the present government, despite the huge revenue government derives from the traders. He decried the multiple taxation and levies forcefully imposed on the traders by Abia State government, saying these have subjected the traders to untold hardship forcing most of them to relocate to Imo and Akwa Ibom states.

enyan police yesterday teargassed schoolchildren demonstrating against the removal of their school's playground, which has been allegedly grabbed by a powerful politician, said a Kenyan human rights activist. The students from Langata Road Primary School were in the front line of people pulling down a wall erected around the playground which has been acquired by a private developer

said to be a powerful politician, said Boniface Mwangi. Primary school children in Kenya are usually between six and 14 years of age. "The governor, the senator and other government officials are all scared of the politician, they cannot do anything to stop the playground from the being taken," Mwangi said. Television footage showed children, some being carried away, writhing in pain, screaming and choking because of the tear-gas. Police of-

ficers later brought dogs to the playground. Acting police chief Samuel Arachi said he had suspended the police officer who was in charge at the scene of the protest. In such an incident tear gas is not used because the protests were not violent, Arachi said. He said five people have been arrested; three for vandalism and two for incitement. "We will never allow officers to use force not only on any citizen more so on children whether in a demonstration or otherwise," he said.

Four million civil servants register with NHF in four years Clem Khena-Ogbena

he National President, Real Estate Development Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Chief Emmanuel Olabode Afolayan, has said that four million civil servants have registered with the National Housing Fund (NHF) in four years.  folayan said this at the weekend, in Abuja, while applauding the re-ap-

pointment of the Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Mr. Gimba Ya’u Kumo, for another four-year term in office. He addressed some journalists shortly after the inauguration of Kumo, alongside others, including Charles Mfe Nyor-Ajiva, Richard John Esin and KolaDaisi Arinola Morenike, by Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban

Development. Afolayan, who also pointed out that the introduction of Information Communication Technology (ICT) to FMBN’s operations had led to gross collection of more than N2.4 billion from its N700 million monthly collection, reiterated that Kumo’s last four years in the bank had seen huge “growth with over 4 million civil servants registering with the National Housing Fund.”

Amosun to create 30 LCDAs in Ogun Kunle Olayeni Abeokuta

overnor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State yesterday promised that his administration would create new Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) to deepen good governance at the grassroots' level. Amosun said his plan was to create about 30 LCDAs in addition to the existing 20 local government areas in the state in order to increase the councils to 50. He spoke in Ibooro,

Yewa North local government area during the continuation of his re-election campaign tour. According to the governor, the proposed LCDAs would be created immediately after the February 28 governorship election. He stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government in the state had put in place all necessary mechanism for the creation. Amosun said the LCDAs would have been in full operation before the end of his first term in office in May, this year.

The governor wondered why some states in the federation, which were not up to Ogun State, are having more than 30 local government areas. He said: "We have concluded plans on the creation of the local council development areas. It would have come before today, but due to some hitches, which is mainly, finance. But I can assure you now that we are more than ready. Most states in the country are having like 30; some are 40 and you need to see these states, they are half of Ogun State.

Okonkwo kicks-off senatorial campaign in Awka Wale Elegbede

he Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial candidate in Anambra Central, Senator Annie Okonkwo, yesterday kicked off his campaign in grand style, donating a trailer load of rice to supporters of the party. Speaking during the distribution of the rice and cash incentive, at his campaign office in Awka, Okonkwo, who represented Anambra Central in the

Senate from 2007 to 2011, thanked his supporters for the confidence reposed in him, and assured them that he will not let them down. He recounted his efforts in the aspect of employing the youths, erosion combating, scholarship to students, adding that he has come out to serve his people again. According to him, “ If I am elected again as a senator, I will have an advantage of holding a key position, which will give me the opportunity to serve my

people better.” He enjoined his supporters not to give credence to rumour mongers, for their aim is to disorganise and destabilise his dream from ameliorating the sufferings of the people of his senatorial district, due to their selfish and despotic interest. He stressed that he decided to run the race under the umbrella of the Peoples Democratic Party, so as to have a strong voice in the Senate and not as a minority.

Kenyan school pupils and activists pushing down the wall leading to their platground, during a protest against the removal of their school's playground, at the Langata Road Primary School, in Nairobi, Kenya.

Syria begins destruction of chemical weapons facilities

yria has started the long-delayed destruction of a dozen underground bunkers and hangars that were used for the production and storage of chemical weapons, diplomatic sources told Reuters yesterday. Damascus last year handed over 1,300 metric tonnes of toxic agents after joining the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), but it is months behind schedule in destroying the facilities used to make and store its deadly stockpile. Work at a first tun-

nel began on December 24, but was delayed by winter storms. The site will be sealed off with cement walls by the end of January, said one source in The Hague, where the global chemical weapons watchdog is based. "The work finally began, which is good news," said another source. "There were some technical issues and the bad weather has slowed up the process." Syria joined the OPCW after a sarin gas attack killed more than 1,000 people in the Damascus suburb of

Ghouta on Aug. 21, 2013, prompting threats of military intervention by the United States, which blamed President Bashar al-Assad's government. Assad's government and rebels blamed each other. US President Barack Obama called off military action against Damascus after Syria agreed to destroy its chemical stockpiles. A year later the United States began a bombing campaign against Islamic State militants in Syria with the tacit approval of Assad, which still continues.

Protests in Iran over cartoon

ore than 2,000 Iranians protested yesterday outside the French embassy in Tehran, chanting "Death to France" and urging the ambassador be expelled because of a cartoon of the Prophet Mohammed. The demonstration was in response to French satirical magazine Charlie

Hebdo's use of the cartoon in an edition published a week after 12 people were killed by Islamist gunmen at its Paris offices. The image has angered many Muslims as depictions of Mohammed are widely considered forbidden in Islam, and has triggered protests in Asia, Africa and the Middle East, some of which turned deadly.

Iran denounced the Paris massacre but it also condemned the magazine's new cartoon, where the prophet holds a "Je suis Charlie" sign under the heading "All is forgiven". Plans for yesterday's protest led the French ambassador to announce that the embassy, located in busy downtown Tehran, would be closed all day.

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

International Sport

Sport News

AFCON 2015

Quadri seeks corporate Nigeria support

League Cup: Mourinho urges Chelsea fans to respect Gerrard

Cameroun, Cote d’Ivoire begin assault without Eto’o, Drogba

Sport

Did you know? Derby County went an amazing 32 games without a win in 2007-08 season

Wewon’tmiss Iheanacho, Nwakali–Manu

Ifeanyi Ibeh

lying Eagles coach, Manu Garba, has told New Telegraph that he is untroubled over the unavailability of Kelechi Iheanacho and Chidiebere Nwakali for the upcoming African Youth Championship, insisting that he has suitable replacements for the overseas-based duo. Iheanacho, the most valuable player at the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, and Nwakali, who also impressed as Nigeria emerged world champions in the Middle East, will miss the AYC following the release of their English

Iheanacho (left)

Premier League club, Manchester City, to release them for the Flying Eagles camp in Kaduna. While City are hanging on to Iheanacho due to an injury the forward recently picked up, Nwakali was prevented from teaming up with the rest of the Nigerian U-20 side because he is on the verge of making a loan move to one of the English side’s affiliates. Iheanacho is also expected to either join the Manchester City setup or another team on loan before the end of the current transfer window. But with the AYC holding from March 8 to 22 in Senegal, Manchester City feel the players’ development could be hampered by their participation at the tournament which serves as the qualifiers for this year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup, holding in New Zealand. Garba is however unruffled by the development as he insists he has players capable of getting the job done in the absence of both players. “They (Manchester City) have the right to do what they want with their players, They are only doing what they feel is in the best interest of the players so we can’t

speak ill of them,” he said. “We all want what is best for these boys as we will be the ones to benefit in the end if all goes well for them, so I am not worried as there are lots of talented players in this country. Not many knew about them before we took them to the (U-17) World Cup so who says we cannot throw up a number of new stars that Nigerians would be proud of.” Garba, who said he had long envisioned the possibility of not having some players available for the AYC, added: “There was always a possibility that this would happen but their absence will only serve as a motivation for others to raise their game and do their best to ensure that we qualify for the World Cup and make it hard for us (the coaches) to leave them out of the team.” The Flying Eagles will at the AYC be up against hosts Senegal, Cote d’Ivoire and Congo in Group A. The top two teams from the group will qualify automatically for the World Cup alongside the top two teams from Group B made up of Mali, Zambia, South Africa and Ghana.

Australian Open: Nadal through, Ivanovic out The Sport Team Adekunle Salami Group Sport Editor

Emmanuel Tobi Assistant Editor, Sports

Ifeanyi Ibeh Sports Correspondent

Ajibade Olusesan Sports Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya Sports Correspondent

hird seed Rafael Nadal returned to Grand Slam action with a comprehensive win over Russia’s Mikhail Youzhny. The Spaniard, 28, won 6-3 6-2 6-2 in his first match at a Grand Slam since Wimbledon following injury and illness. Sixth seed Andy Murray beat India’s Yuki Bhambri 6-3 6-4 7-6 (7-3). Women’s fifth seed Ana Ivanovic suffered a shock 1-6 6-3 6-2 defeat by Czech qualifier Lucie Hradecka. Nadal, who is a 14-time Grand Slam winner, had only played eight matches since a shock defeat by Australian teenager Nick Kyrgios at Wimbledon last year. Before the tournament, he played down his chances of winning a second Australian Open title but showed glimpses of his best against

world number 49 Youzhny. “I was a little bit under doubt before, but I think I played without making too many mistakes and the only way to get better is to win more matches so it will probably help me,” said Nadal. “In general I was working well, returning well and I just need to build a little bit, such as being more dynamic with the movements sometimes. But for the rest I am more or less happy.” Serbia’s Ivanovic appeared close to tears as she dissected her shock first-round exit against Hradecka in front of the post-match media. “I think the whole match I didn’t really feel like myself out there. I had some issues. You know, it’s probably the worst thing that could happen,” she said.

Nadal

SPORT

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Quadri seeks corporate Nigeria support NFF: Pinnick did not attend CAS hearing

lTo get special racket from Joola

Ajibade Olusesan

014 International Table Tennis Federation Player of the Year, Aruna Quadri, has appealed for the support of corporate bodies and well-meaning Nigerians as he hopes to build on the success he has recorded in his career so far. Quadri, who is the highestranked African in the world, at number 30, said he needed all the support he could get to remain on top of his game. “I am using this platfor m to appeal to corporate bodies in the telecommunications industry and other companies to come to my aid especially for me to attend more competitions this year. I am looking forward to the Globacom, MTN, Airtel, Etisalat and Visafone of this world for assistance for me to continue to do what I love doing,” he said. He added: “I worked hard in 2014 using my resources and with support from the President, Nigeria Table Tennis Federation, Wahid Oshodi, to get to where I am now in the world. But now that I have made my country proud, what I need is support so that I can take part in more competitions and keep up the pace as well as be in top shape in readiness for the All Africa Games and Olympics.” Meanwhile, Joola, the Germanybased company, will produce a special blade for the African champion as part of the new deal Quadri has with the kits manufacturer.

Quadri

Mikel okay with Chelsea bench role

igeria midfielder Mikel Obi has said he will not complain about his relegated role at title-chasing Chelsea, insisting he will just get on with the job. Mikel has made only four starts in 12 appearances for all-conquering Chelsea in the

EPL this season to spark off speculations about his future at ‘The Blues’. But the Nigeria midfielder has maintained he still has a place at the Stamford Bridge side and he will keep working at it in his ninth year at the club. “We all know Chelsea

Danagogo tasks NFF, coaches on Eagles Comfort Chukwu Abuja

ports Minister and Chairman, National Sports Commission, Dr. Tammy Danagogo has urged the Nigeria Football Federation and coaches of the Super Eagles to make the senior national team competitive and ensure that only the best players represent the country at all times. The minister made this plea

he Nigeria Football Federation has denied a report in a section of the media that its President, Mr. Amaju Pinnick was in Laussane, Switzerland, last week to testify in a case brought before the respected Court of Arbitration for Sports by some football stakeholders led by Ambassador Chris Giwa. “Our attention has been drawn to a report that the NFF President, Mr Amaju Pinnick, and Mr. Chris Giwa testified before the Court of Arbitration for Sports in a case brought by Giwa and others. “Ordinarily, there would have been no need to react to this report, but we feel it is important to put the facts straight. The President of Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Pinnick, has been on CAF duty in Equatorial Guinea, and that was made known to the public. He was nowehere near Lausanne where the hearing took place. “It is also important ato let the public know that the said case was instituted by Giwa and Mr. Yahaya Adams, claiming to represent NFF, against the world governing body, FIFA. The NFF General Secretary, Barrister Musa Amadu was in Lausanne to give evidence on behalf of FIFA, to prove clearly that there was no election on August 26, 2014 as claimed by the plaintiffs,” a statement signed by Musa Amadu said.

on the heels of the recent twolegged friendly matches put together for the home-based team against Cote d’ Ivoire and Yemen where the team lost 1-0 to star-studded Cote d’Ivoire in Abu Dhabi and beat Yemen 2-0 in Dubai. A statement from the minister’s special Assistant on Media, Patrick Omorodion, said that Dr. Danagogo argued that with regular friendly matches for the Team B Eagles, the coaches would be able to beef

up the first team for crucial matches with new players discovered as the Eagles prepare for the 2017 Africa Nations Cup qualifiers. “If the Team B gets regular friendly matches, the coaches will have a pool of players to select from to beef up the main team. They have to make the team competitive so that only the best will represent the country at all times,” he said, as he commended the NFF for arranging the matches.

pack quality and, to even be in the reckoning at all is a big thing,” said Mikel. “Fellow Africans will agree with me that it is not easy to break into the Premier League, but I have weathered it - this is my ninth year, and I have no regrets at all.”

Mikel

Dolphins players predict tough Super 6 tourney Charles Ogundiya

layers and officials of Dolphins FC have expressed optimism over their chances of having a great but tough outing at the Glo Premier League invitational tournament featuring the four top teams in the league and two junior national teams. Dolphins, last season’s

Australia face North Korea, New Zealand for Falcons Ifeanyi Ibeh

ne of Nigeria’s opponents at the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup, Australia, will take on Asian champions, North Korea, and Oceania champions, New Zealand, in matches expected to prepare them for the tournament which kicks-off in June in Canada. According to a statement from the Football Federation of Australia, the Aussie women’s national team will play against New Zealand and North Korea as part of a three-nation tournament

to be held in Auckland, New Zealand in February. The matches against North Korea on February 10 and New Zealand on February 12 will be the Matildas’ first since the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2014 final against Japan in May 2014, and also their first under their new coach Alen Stajcic. In addition to the matches against the 18th-ranked Football Ferns of New Zealand and North Korea, which currently occupy seventh in the FIFA world rankings, the Matildas will also take part in the Cyprus Cup, where they

have been drawn in Group A along with England, Finland and Netherlands. The Cyprus Cup will be held in Cyprus from March 2 to 15. At the World Cup, which runs from June 6 to July 5, the Super Falcons will come up against the Matildas on June 12 at the Winnipeg Stadium, Winnipeg, four days after opening their tournament campaign against Sweden at the same venue. Nigeria’s last game against the United States of America will take place in Vancouver on June 16.

Oparanozie (left)

Federations Cup losing finalist and 2015 CAF Confederation Cup hopefuls regrouped on Sunday ahead of the tournament which serves as the opener to what promises to be a busy 2014/15 football season for the club. Captain Sunday Rotimi said, “It’s been long I participated in a tournament of this magnitude and I think it will help the teams in terms of match practice. It’s going to be a tough tournament because I believe the clubs involved are the best in the country currently.” In the same vein, his teammate and defender, Jonathan Zikiye who joined the team in January 2014 is also relishing his maiden appearance at the tournament. The former Nembe City star is also of the opinion that the pre-season tournament will be keenly contested. “It is a good opportunity for us as a team and it will be a wonderful experience for me as an individual being my first time of playing in such tournament. The opposition will be stiff, seeing that we will have some of the best clubs in the country and two national teams participating in the tournament.”

INTERNATIONAL SPORT 53

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

League Cup: Mourinho urges Chelsea fans to respect Gerrard

Steven Gerrard (right)

Inzaghi vows to revive Milan A

C Milan coach Filippo Inzaghi has taken full responsibility for his team’s slow start to the new year. The Rossoneri lost 1-0 at home to Atalanta on Sunday to suffer a second defeat in their last three league games, and are now eighth in the standings, seven points adrift of third-place Napoli, who hold the last Champions League qualifying spot. “Until a short while ago we were competing with Roma and Napoli. But I didn’t get ahead of myself then and I won’t get down now,” Inzaghi

told his club’s official website. “I take the blame and we will try and turn the whistles into cheers.” The Rossoneri, who are not competing in Europe this season, have collected just one win in their last six league games and Inzaghi knows his team must react. “Everything is up for discussion when you lose,” he added. “We have to understand what isn’t working and find a solution. It’s not a question to do with the formation, but rather playing with heart and desire.”

ose Mourinho has called on Chelsea supporters to stop taunting Steven Gerrard and show the Liverpool captain respect. Gerrard has been the subject of a chant from Chelsea supporters referencing his famous slip in last April’s Premier League contest that allowed Demba Ba to open the scoring in a 2-0 victory at Anfield. With Chelsea set to visit Anfield in Tuesday’s League Cup semi-

Rangers, and while he failed to score himself, the striker was pleased to get time on the pitch. “It was 90 very important minutes for me,” The Mirror quotes Falcao as saying. “I need to play and I am very happy that I did. Obviously, I really hope to score soon, but the opportunities will come, I am sure of that. “I am fine. I feel really good. I am playing without any sort of fitness problems. I am very happy with the win. It was a very difficult game but we managed the match well and got the three points.”

Ribery targets another treble

Ribery

ayern Munich forward Franck Ribery is targeting a repeat of the club’s famous treble of the 2012/13 season when they won the Bundesliga, Champions League and DFB-Pokal. Last year, they managed to win the Bundesliga and do-

mestic cup once again, but fell short of defending their Champions League title when they were dismantled by eventual winners Real Madrid in the semi-finals. “I’ll never forget how I felt after we won the treble,” Ribery told Germany’s Bild newspaper. “It’s like I was flying. It was so sensational - so incredible. It drives you crazy and that is something I want to experience again in my career.” Bayern have an 11-point cushion at the top of the Bundesliga and are in the last 16 of both cup competitions. However, Ribery warns that they cannot rest on their laurels.

and go, especially when a player like him deserves respect, we don’t need that.” Mourinho has long been an admirer of Gerrard, and the Portuguese still harbours regrets that he was unable to lure him to Stamford Bridge during his first stint in charge at Chelsea. “I was dreaming of Claude Makelele, Gerrard and Frank Lampard. We were playing in an open triangle without a number 10,” he added. “We did everything.”

Wenger hails ‘perfect role model’ Cazorla

rsenal manager Arsene Wenger has heralded Santi Cazorla as the perfect role model for young players aspiring to impress at the top level following the Spain international’s impressive form as Arsenal triumphed 2-0 at Manchester City on Sunday. Wenger believes the attacking midfielder is reaping the rewards for his versatility and feels the young players in his squad can learn from the way he plays the game. “Cazorla has started playing

centrally - he played wide a lot and now he’s at a level of his career where he can have more influence centrally,” Wenger said. “He’s been fantastic because he gets you out of pressure in very tight situations. He finds openings that are very interesting. “He is a good example for young players, he shows you how important it is to be two footed in the middle of the park, it’s a vital quality for a midfielder today and he does that very well. He loves the Cazorla game.”

Wilder keen to test Tyson’s fury

I don’t have any fitness problem – Falcao

anchester United striker Radamel Falcao has insisted that he “needs” to play regularly and is not suffering from any fitness problems. Many have suggested that the Red Devils will decide against sealing a permanent £43m deal at the end of the season after manager Louis van Gaal left Falcao out of the side that suffered a 1-0 defeat to Southampton a fortnight ago. However, the 28-yearold returned to the side at the weekend for United’s 2-0 win over Queens Park

final first leg, Gerrard is sure to be the subject of more derision from the away end. But manager Mourinho has asked for Gerrard - who will join LA Galaxy in July - not to be targeted. “He’s a historic player for Liverpool, a historic player for the Premier League,” Mourinho said. “He’s an opponent I always admired and respected. There is a song that my fans have that I don’t like at all. “A couple of times it’s good fun but to go and go

Wilder

ew WBC world heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has described Tyson Fury as ‘an entertainer’ and would be happy to put his title at stake against him. Wilder, who on Saturday became the first American to win a heavyweight world title since 2006, has already dispatched another Briton – Audley Harrison – inside 70 seconds and is also keen to arrange a future unification clash with WBO champion Wladimir Klitschko. “I would love to fight Tyson Fury. I think he’s doing a

good job of what he’s doing in boxing,” said Wilder. “As far as being entertaining, I think he’s ahead of his business in the UK in entertainment and I think I’m doing the same in America. And I think that is going to be a big clash down the road. “There’s nothing like the big guys going at it. It’s like a freak show, so I can’t wait on that one. I can’t wait for it.” British and Commonwealth champion Fury, 26, has won all 23 of his professional bouts and is scheduled to fight Germany’s Christian Hammer in London on February 28.

Australian Open: Federer, Sharapova ease through R

oger Federer and Maria Sharapova glittered under the Rod Laver Arena lights on Monday, restoring order at the Australian Open after eight women’s seeds crashed out in the afternoon sun on a manic opening day. The evergreen Federer strolled into the second round with a classy 6-4 6-2 7-5 win over Taiwan’s Lu Yen-Hsun before fellow second seed Sharapova ruined Croatian qualifier Petra Martic’s 24th birthday with a 6-4 6-1 victory. World number two Sharapova, looking for her first Australian title since 2008, swept aside Croat Petra Martic 6-4, 6-1. “I made a few too many unforced errors but overall I’m glad I got through,” said the Russian, adding that she was reaping the benefits of a strong lead up to the tournament when she won the Brisbane International. Federer joined Sharapova in the winners’ circle at the Brisbane In-

Sharapova

ternational this month and, on his coach Stefan Edberg’s 49th birthday, the Swiss notched his 1,001st tour win. “Winning in the first round, it’s always a bit of a relief. I thought I played good,” the 33-year-old told reporters after dashing around the court like a frantic teenager against the 47thranked Lu. He will now face Simone Bolelli in the last 64 following the Italian’s

four-set win over Argentina’s Juan Monaco. “I thought it was a really good level,” Federer said. “Lu played a tough match and I really had to step it up. I’ve played him before so knew what he was capable of. The season is still early and it’s tough to get rhythm, especially in the first round but it was a nice match.”

SPORT

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015 NEW TELEGRAPH

Transfer News Agent denies Sneijder Juve deal

he rumored move of Wesley Sneijder to T Italian heavyweights Juventus is increasingly unlikely, as the Dutch player’s

club has refused to allow him to leave. Istanbul side Galatasaray are adamant the former Inter play-maker is to remain with them in Turkey and the chances of a transfer are now almost certainly none. ‘It’s nearly impossible to bring Sneijder to Turin, I can’t see it happening,” confirmed agent Guido Albers to Tuttosport.“The Galatasaray officials have been perfectly clear with me. He would have been happy to return to Italy but only if the club had wanted to sell.”

Equatorial Guinea 2015 AFCON

Senegal shock Ghana 2-1

enegal defeated Ghana 2-1 in their opening Group C game at the Africa Nations Cup thanks to Moussa Sow’s late goal. Ghana took a first half lead through Andre Ayew’s penalty after Christian Atsu was brought down in the box by Senegal goalkeeper. The Senegalese got stronger as the half went on and went close in the 33rd minute through a stunning acrobatic effort from Mame Biram Diouf, which forced Brimah Razak into a fine save. However, Senegal eventually leveled matters in the 58th minute, as Diouf headed into an

Benzema close to Liverpool move

Madrid are prepared to offload Rpoolealstriker Karim Benzema, with Liverwaiting in the wings.

The Express report the Frenchman is keen on a move to the Premier League, after growing ‘frustrated’ with boss Carlo Ancelotti. Despite this, the 27-year-old has still netted 14 goals in 29 games so far this campaign, including a brace at Anfield in Madrid’s 3-0 Champions League win back in October. The French international, who scored three goals for his country at last summer’s World Cup in Brazil, would most likely replace the misfirings.

Roma target Kalou

alomon Kalou is reported to be a target for Roma as the Giallorossi look to reinforce their attacking options. Rudi Garcia’s side has slipped to five points adrift of Juventus after drawing with Palermoattheweekend,andit’sbelievedthat the Coach is pressing the Lupi to invest in the squad. According to Corriere dello Sport, former Chelsea forward Kalou is the capital club’s priority, with Garcia having coached the player during his time at Lille.

Wenger opens talks with Destro

rsenalaresettoopentalksoverapotential Aplayer move to sign Mattia Destro from Roma, a who has also caught the eye of both

Chelsea and Liverpool. According to The Express, the 23-yearold is wanted by Arsene Wenger in the hope thathecanfilltheattackingvoidleftbyLukas Podolski and Yaya Sanogo. I n addition to that, Joel Campbell is also being tipped for anEmiratesexitwhilesummersigningDannyWelbeckisstilloutwith an injury, leaving Olivier Giroud as the only available striking option.

Everton reject Spur bid for Mirallas ottenham Hotspur have had a JanuT ary enquiry for the winger Kevin Mirallas knocked back by Everton.

Mirallas has 18 months remaining on his Everton contract and the Merseyside club does not want to sell him this month. Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid are monitoring the 27-year-old, but it has emerged that Spurs have also shown a strong interest in him. Mauricio Pochettino, the Spurs head coach, identified the left side of his attack as an area he wants to strengthen in the summer and Tottenham have identified a number of players who could fill that role.

Van Gaal eyes move for Turkey star Tufan

anchester United are monitoring M the progress of Turkish international Ozan Tufan, according to The

Express. The 19-year-old prodigy plys his trade at Turkish outfit Bursaspor, and has already attracted attention from clubs across Europe. United, Man City, Chelsea, Atletico Madrid, Valencia and Juventus are all said to have sent scouts to watch the versatile defensive midfielder. Tufan’s father broke the silence regarding his son’s future by revealing multiple clubs have “been to see him play”.

Action between Senegal and Ghana

FIXTURES AND RESULTS

January 17 Equatorial Guinea 1 – 1 Congo Burkina Faso 0 – 2 Gabon

January 18

Zambia 1 – 1 DR Congo Tunisia 1 – 1 Cape Verde

January 19

Ghana 1-2 Senegal Algeria vs South Africa

January 20

Cote d’Ivoire vs Guinea 5pm Mali vs Cameroon 8pm

January 21

E/Guinea vs Burkina Faso 5pm Gabon vs Congo8pm

January 22

empty net after his initial header crashed onto the upright. Ghana were struggling to deal with the Senegalese, and Jonathan Mensah was nearly punished for an error but Diouf somehow managed to fire wide from close range in the 80th minute. Jordan Ayew had a chance to clinch three points in the 87th minute but the forward failed to steer his header on target from six-yards out. However, Senegal snatched the win in stoppage time, as substitute Sow fired into the far corner from 12-yards to get their AFCON campaign off to a winning start.

Cameroun,Coted’Ivoirebegin assaultwithoutEto’o,Drogba

ndomitable Lions of Cameroun and Elephant of Cote d’Ivoire will begin their first Africa Cup of Nations after the retirement of Samuel Eto’o and Didier Drogba, today against the Eagles of Mali and Guinea respectively. Cameroun will be keen to continue their impressive form in qualifying, where they emerged top of their group and were unbeaten - they also conceded only one goal. Volker Finke’s Indomitable Lions have recovered from a poor World Cup campaign in Brazil and the retirement of Eto’o to be genuine contenders to win the title. Mali’s Roma midfielder Seydou Keita is set to play at his seventh Cup of Nations, while former Poland World Cup midfielder

Henryk Kasperczak is having a second spell as Mali coach having lifted the Eagles to fourth place in 2002 when they hosted the finals. Ivory Coast may have lost their place as the top-ranked team in Africa - they are now third behind Algeria and Tunisia - but they still boast a squad that is arguably the strongest on the continent. With Yaya Toure, his brother Kolo, Serge Aurier, Gervinho, Seydou Doumbia and Wilfried Bony at his disposal, coach Renard can call on star players as he seeks to lift the Elephants from nearly men to champions. On the other hand, Guinea are widely considered to be the weakest team in the group and it would be a big surprise if they reached the quarter-finals for the first time since 2008.

Zambia vs Tunisia 5pm Cape Verde vs DR Congo 8pm

January 23

Ghana vs Algeria 5pm South Africa vs Senegal 8pm

January 24

Cote d'Ivoire vs Mali 5pm Cameroon vs Guinea 8pm

January 25

Congo vs Burkina Faso Gabon vs Equatorial Guinea

January 26

RD Congo vs Tunisia Cape Verde vs Zambia

January 27

South Africa vs Ghana 8pm Senegal vs Algeria 8pm

January 28

Cameroon vs Cote d'Ivoire 8pm Guinea vs Mali 8pm

Carlos Tavares Carlitos of Cape Verde clears from Eduok Ahmed Akaichi of Tunisia

Cape Verde coach celebrates draw against Tunisia

ape Verde coach Rui Aguas has described his team’s 1-1 draw with Tunisia in the Africa Cup of Nations as a ‘good result’. The Blue Sharks fought back from a goal down to salvage a 1-1 draw in their Group B opener in Ebebiyin on Sunday night, with Heldon scoring a late penalty to cancel out Mohamed Ali Manc-

er’s opener. “We wanted to win and I believe we did everything to win. We were better in the first half and had good possession of the ball. We lost some concentration and Tunisia scored,” said Cape Verde’s Aguas after the match. “We came back from a goal down and in the end it was a good result.”

NEW TELEGRAPH TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

Lance the boil: Indian racism against Nigerians

“R

acist prejudice against black Africans in India has taken a deadly new turn following the murder last week of a Nigerian man who was stabbed to death in the western coastal resort of Goa. That attack, which also wounded five other Nigerians, represented the culmination of long tensions between local Indians and a small Nigerian community.... However, some other Indian lawmakers, reflecting a general disdain for Africans, have insulted the black people in their midst. Dayanand Mandrekar, a Goa minister who belongs to the right-wing Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said, "Nigerians are like cancer," while another BJP legislator, Subhash Phaldesai, equated black Africans to “wild animals.” (International Business Times, November 6, 2013). The victim of the racist attack in question was Obodo Simon. After the slaying, his body was left lying, uncovered, on a hot, dusty Indian road under a blazing sun for hours and hours on end. That tragedy took place in another country, a distant subcontinent, in the sightless dim of our shores. Justice in that case has been stalled, stifled and will, ultimately, be buried along with the luckless Obodo. But closer home, in our own Lagos, in our Abuja and in our own Aba, under our broad noses, Indians are abusing, torturing, degrading and killing Nigerians, in their own country, at will and often without repercussions or reprisals or retaliations or due process of investigations. They literally get away with murder. The Vanguard edition of January 17, 2015, in a report appropriately entitled: “Indians handing death and slavery to Nigerians”, rendered a shocking narrative of degradation, subjugation and inhumanity against Nigerians by African Wires and Allied Industries, a division of a conglomerate called Parco Group of Companies which I understand is owned by the Guptas. The most germane part of the report, in my opinion, is this: “Nigerian authorities including the police, immigration...compromise on matters of compliance to rules as the police demonstrated when Tosin died. As we write this story, Tosin who died a few days ago has already been buried and forgotten. “They have completely bought over the Agbara police station,” a company staff told us, adding “you need to see where a policeman is saluting an illiterate Indian. They have also bought over the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity....” The above report was filed in respect of a young Nigerian, Tosin Olajide, whose death, last month, was caused by the customary callousness of Indians towards their African workers. He was about 23 years old. The domestic perspective offered by the Vanguard report is a narrow snapshot of the endemic problem of Indian racism in Nigeria. The international narrative is more disturbing. The headlines, as outrageous as they are, offer a higher threshold of tolerance than the contents. You are left wondering how a society out of which erupt these tales of gross inhumanity and blind hatred could possibly be described as decent and civilized: “A Racist Turn in India”, New York Times; “Their Indian horror: Africans recount everyday racism”, Hindustan Times; “Racist Indian mob attacks Af-

Broadside EMMANUEL ONWE agubata@aol.com

Jonathan

Indian PM, Narendra Modi

rican students”, The Telegraph (UK); “Africans decry racism in India”, Al Jazeera; “India must check racism towards Africans”, The Observer (Uganda). And then this: “After Goa, it is the turn of New Delhi. The Residents Welfare Association (RWA) of Arjun Nagar at Green Park in south Delhi is planning to pass a resolution instructing local landlords and property dealers to stop renting apartments to people of African descent. The area has a considerable population of Africans, mostly Nigerians. The locals are unhappy with them, accuse them of being a nuisance and allege that most of them are involved in criminal activities like drug peddling.... The local community uses the racist slur

"Habshi" (nigger) to refer to all people of African descent. Rumours abound about how some Nigerians killed a human child and ate it in January this year.... a Nigerian national, who is a student of NIIT, complained of the glaring discrimination that he is subjected to: "People are very hostile towards us. They call us derogatory names and refer to us as monkeys. The administration does little to stop this.... The police is highly racist and are of no help," he said.... Anil Sharma, a property dealer, said, "We are trying to get a resolution passed by the RWA that these people shouldn't be given houses on rent. It is extremely hard to say anything to these people as they are well built and look very dangerous.... ” (The Sunday Guardian (India), November 9, 2014). The global notoriety that India has attained for the rampant abuse and rape of women across their own country, a reflection of entrenched misogyny in the Indian society, is matched only by the conspiracy of silence that has enshrouded virulent anti-Nigerian racism in India and the ineptitude of our leaders in tackling the outrage. India is fundamentally and culturally steeped in racism. There is no better way of describing a society that maintains the bizarre, diabolical and inhuman caste system. But the untouchables of India are leagues ahead on the measure of human worth compared to the contempt and disdain and revulsion reserved for Africans by Indians. Idi Amin got a number of things wrong during his brutal excesses as the Ugandan dictator in the 1970s. But his robust approach to the odious anti-African racism by the Indian settler community in East Africa was proportionate and inescapable. The host community was spat at and defecated upon by a bunch of thoughtless and arrogant immigrants whose idea

The victim of the racist attack in question was Obodo Simon. After the slaying, his body was left lying, uncovered, on a hot, dusty Indian road under a blazing sun for hours and hours on end

of their own superiority has never ceased to amuse and disgust me in equal measure. As an undergraduate at the London School of Economics, one of my closest friends was an Indian young man of East African descent. The weekend he visited my apartment and stayed over was the weekend that our strong bond of friendship melted under the insufferable heat of racism. His parents all but disowned him for, as they put it, “foolishly choosing to be associated with an African.” Such a backward and unenlightened reaction by parents who called London, the most cosmopolitan city in the entire known universe, home, was an experience that stunned and educated me. But this is not personal. According to the BBC, some 40,000 Nigerians are resident in India. The proportion of the Indian population below the poverty line is more than three times the entire population of Nigeria. You might, therefore, legitimately question the motivations of those who made the choice to emigrate to a country stained by such an ugly statistic. But as free citizens of the world, they are entitled to their choices and preferences. Their freedoms and liberties, as long as they conduct themselves within the limits and permits of the law, are not to be abridged, denied or abused. The right to life and human dignity which is the cherished possession of every human being, including Nigerians, are not subject to any condition except as prescribed by the laws of nations. There are hundreds of thousands of Indians resident in Nigeria. Most of them are here legitimately but there are amongst them those who have no legal entitlement to remain in the country and whose purpose for being here is not only less than honourable but outrightly criminal. Should Nigerians raise cudgels and machetes and start slaughtering them on the streets of Lagos or Abuja? I think not. Nigerian lives are wasted by Indians in India and they get away with it because the attitude and minds of the Indian police are perverted by racism and bigotry. Nigerian lives are wasted by Indians in Nigeria and they get away with it because the Nigerian police is composed of the most corrupt bunch of conniving, duplicitous, violent and mindless thugs ever empowered with uniform and arms and put in charge of the affairs of men. The time has come to take this matter up at the presidential/prime ministerial level. While that is ongoing, a crack team of the Nigerian police, carefully selected from amongst the decent elements in the force should reopen all outstanding cases of murder, sexual assault, domestic assault, rape and sundry offences perpetrated by Indians against Nigerians and investigate them thoroughly and impartially, with a view to not only bringing charges where necessary but also with a view to prosecuting them with the rigour and single-mindedness they deserve. The requisite organs of the Ministry of Internal Affairs should conduct a careful review of all the entry permits issued to Indians and deport with dispatch those who have remained here illegally. Racism and misogyny are rife in India, almost to the point of rivalling its most remarkable reputation for population density and for giving the world the Taj Mahal. Such ugly pockmarks on an otherwise beautiful face!

Sanctity of Truth

On Marble

Emmanuel Onwe

We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.

– Winston Churchill

Leisure & Puzzle }40

Lance the boil: Indian racism against Nigerians

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2015

N150

}55

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