Wednesday, may 4, 2016 new telegraph by Newtelegraphonline

$115m deal: CBN officials swoop on Fidelity Bank's Hq

lBank's shares dip Tony Chukwunyem and Chris Ugwu

op officials of the Central Bank of Nigeria

(CBN’s) compliance unit yesterday swooped on the headquarters of Fidelity Bank Plc. in Lagos, as part of investigations into the

$115 million cash deposit deal involving key officials of the lender. The bank’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Nnamdi Okonkwo, as well as its Head of Opera-

tions, Martins Izuogbe, are currently being detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over suspicion that the money was received from the former Minister

of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, allegedly for bribing officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during the CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Emefiele

Sanctity Of Truth

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

Wednesday, May 4, 2016

At last, N'Assembly submits adjusted budget to Presidency }4

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Vol. 3 No. 805

Saraki

Gunmen abduct lecturer, students }9

Arase

Ex-minister rescued, kidnappers arrested }6

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Anisulowo

FG mulls incentives for oil firms }2

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Kachikwu

Buhari orders clampdown on armed Fulani herdsmen …security agencies must apprehend, expose attackers }2 lAPC govs: Attackers are criminals lNigerians in UK protest attacks lPolice remove Enugu CP, appoint Ojukwu new helmsman

Nigerians protesting in London over recent attacks by Fulani herdsmen in Nigeria… yesterday

Thugs invade Edo Assembly amidst sporadic shooting lSpeaker, deputy impeached lI remain speaker, says Edoror }3 Artificial placenta keeps premature babies alive }6

NEWS

WednESday, May 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Buhari orders clampdown on armed Fulani herdsmen Anule Emmanuel, Emmanuel Onani Mojeed Alabi, Kenneth Ofoma and Charles Onyekwere

resident Muhammadu Buhari has given a clear order to military authorities to deal decisively with armed herdsmen terrorising various communities in the country. The president spoke on Monday night when he met with members of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the presidential villa, Abuja. Buhari said his administration would stop the killings allegedly perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen. According to the president, all heads of security agencies have been ordered to take necessary action to apprehend and expose those behind the heinous attacks. “We are determined to secure all Nigerians and I have told the InspectorGeneral of Police and other security agencies, in very strong terms, to deal decisively with the attackers,” the president said. Buhari, during the meeting, expressed condolences to the Catholic Bishop of Enugu, the people of Ukpabi-Nimbo and all other communities that have suffered fatalities and other losses from the recent attacks. He assured the bishops that he was acting with deliberation and moving methodically to implement his change agenda for the good of the country. “We need to rebuild our institutions methodically, we need to change the way we do things. "In the last 10 years, crude oil sold for more than $100 per barrel, but Nigeria did not save. That is why we have found ourselves where we are today,” Buhari told the Catholic Bishops, led by Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, the Archbishop of Jos. The attack in Enugu by the Fulani herdsmen claimed its first casualty yesterday. The Inspector-General

35.2m

The total followers of NFL players in 2016. Source: Goal.com

$22.9m

The total pay (including salary/ winnings & endorsements) of Alex Rodriguez (Baseball) for 2014. Source: Forbes.com

of Police (IGP), Mr. Solomon Arase, ordered the immediate redeployment of the Enugu State Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr. Nwodibo Ekechukwu. The CP was redeployed in the wake of herdsmen attack on a Ukpabi-Nimbo community in the state. The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olabisi Kolawole, confirmed the redeployment. "Yes, he has been redeployed. He has been replaced by CP Emmanuel Ojukwu." Ojukwu until yesterday was in charge of Kogi State Police Command. Meanwhile, Nigerians living in the United Kingdom yesterday protested in London over what they described as the senseless killings of innocent persons by Fulani herdsmen. The protesters, under

the aegis of London Protest Against Fulani Herdsmen, Mr. Chidi Ughonu, visited the UK Westminster Parliament to seek international support for the agitation against the armed herdsmen. According to Ughonu, the protest is in response to the recent attack at Nimbo, Uzo-Uwani community in Enugu State, where about 40 people were killed with scores wounded and property worth millions of naira destroyed by suspected herdsmen. Similar attacks by Fulani herdsmen had taken place in Oyo, Ondo, Benue, Nasarawa and Plateau states. Ughonu said that the protest would also hold in the United States, Canada and across cities in Europe.

Also, governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday stormed Enugu to condole with the state governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and people of the state over the loss of their citizens in the recent attack on Ukpabi-Nimbo community in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area by suspected herdsmen. The governors included Rochas Okorocha (Imo), who is also the chairman of the APC Governor’s Forum; chairman, Northern Governors’ Forum, Kashim Shettima (Borno); Badaru Abdulahi (Jigawa); Rauf Aregbesola (Osun); Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Simeon Achuba and Deputy Governor of Yobe State, Abubakar Aliyu. Okorocha, who led the delegation, condemned

the killings. He described the incident as a crime and should be treated as such. The Imo State governor further noted that the APC governors would join hands with the Federal Government to bring justice to the people and ensure that such killing was the last anywhere in the country. “We are governors from various states of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing our government, representing the Progressive Governors’ Forum of the APC. We are here because of the recent conflict that took place in Enugu State that recorded the loss of many lives. “As you are aware, death is death and it can be very painful, no matter what shape or form it

comes. But the most painful thing is the death that is man-made and one that one never expected. So, we are here because we are one and this nation of ours is one, irrespective of political party affiliation. We are APC government, you are PDP, but in death, there is no party. So, we have come here to express our genuine concern over the great loss. “Again, we want to condemn in its entirety any criminal activities, whatever form or shape it may take. What is criminal is criminal and we see this as an act of criminality. Most often, in our country, rather than addressing the issue of criminality, we tend to trivialise it. We either associate it with party or tribe or religion. But let me tell CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

L-R: Enugu State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; Governors Abubakar Badaru (Jigawa), Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), Rochas Okorocha (Imo), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Kashim Shettima (Borno) and Kogi State Deputy Governor, Simeon Achuba, during a condolence visit of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governors to Enugu over attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen in Enugu… yesterday.

FG mulls incentives for oil firms lLocal content fund hits N120bn Adeola Yusuf

HOUSTON, TEXAS

he Federal Government plans to extend fiscal incentives, including tariff cuts, for all investors with oil and gas facilities close to rural oil producing communities. These inducements came on a day the savings in the Oil and Gas Local Content Development Funds hit all-time high of N120 billion ($600 million) in three years. Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, revealed the planned cut in tariff for investors at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas, USA. He said that the government was pushing forth the drive to harness the country’s hydrocarbon resources for industrialisation. Represented by the Director, Monitoring and

Evaluation, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Tunde Adelana, the minister noted that the government’s emphasis was not only to generate revenues from exporting crude oil, but also to process locally to meet petrochemical, power, energy and domestic home needs of the people. The local content development fund-operating model was currently, according to him, being reviewed to enhance its accessibility to local service companies for their capacity enhancement activities. The government, he said, was determined to accelerate the implementation of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Park Scheme to enable the country’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) focus on production and services while infrastructure and facilities were being developed to support domiciliation imperatives.

The site, he disclosed, are being acquired in strategic locations and physical development is expected to commence in earnest to meet the aspirations of the industry. He said: “Government is determined to keep our populace productively engaged. As such, we are working on enforcing local content practice in other sectors, especially power, construction and Information and Communication Technology. As you may be aware, the National Assembly is currently in the process of amending our public procurement laws with stricter local content provisions. The crosssectorial synergy that will be created therein will expand market opportunities for oil equipment manufacturers that set up in Nigeria beyond opportunities in the oil and gas sector.” The government, he said, was working on a procedure that will identify companies that have

invested in the economy and categorise these companies for specific work scope in a way that will facilitate contract opportunities. Kachikwu noted that these measures are intended to boost investor confidence and attract investment into the Nigerian economy. Meanwhile, the Nigerian local firms have raised the alarm over their inability to access the Nigerian Content Development Fund, which has reached N120 billion ($600 million) over the last three years. Rising under the auspices of the Petroleum Engineering and Technicians Association of Nigeria (PETAN), the indigenous firms said that the inaccessibility of the funds is an impediment to the growth of the industry. Fielding questions from newsmen at Nigeria’s stand at the OTC, Chairman of PETAN, Bank-Anthony Okoroafor, called on the government to make the funds accessible to his members.

This, coupled with the speedy passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), he said, was the only way that the motive for which the fund was established could be achieved. “I think there is a consensus of people to move forward. We have to also appreciate that we are doing oil prices at $40 per barrel today compared to $100 per barrel few years ago. The reality of today is now dawning on people,” he said. “On improving domestic refining capacity, I think with the drop in oil prices and the constraints we have on locally-produced petroleum products, it is actually important to develop our domestic refining capacity because it helps us to develop and rethink our process. “Already, we have been seeing a lot of steps in that direction. Modular refineries have been licensed, many of them have completed their detailed engineering, and moving ahead to start construction very soon,” he added.

NEWS

WednESday, May 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Thugs invade Edo Assembly amidst sporadic shooting Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

ayhem. That was the situation yesterday at the Anthony Enahoro Legislative Complex in Benin, Edo State, when armed thugs invaded the House of Assembly. The thugs had invaded the house, following the impeachment of the Speaker, Mr. Victor Edoror and his deputy, Mr. Bright Osayande. The removal of the two principal members of the house had caused hired thugs, suspected to be loyal to the speaker, to invade the house, shooting sporadically into the air to scare away lawmakers and other people who were at the gallery to watch the day’s proceedings. The heavy shooting by the thugs forced people and traders at the popular Oba Market and adjoining streets and roads to scamper for safety.

When the tension finally died down, the lawmakers elected the first female member, Mrs. Elizabeth Ativie, representing Uhunmwonde State Constituency as the new speaker and Dr. Joseph Okonoboh, representing Igueben as her deputy. Sixteen out of the 24 All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers in the house signed the impeachment notice that was made available to newsmen in the state. It was gathered that trouble started when the member representing Owan East constituency and Majority Leader of the house, Mr. Folly Ogedegbe, moved a motion to impeach Edoror and the deputy speaker. The motion was seconded by Mr. Gani Audu, representing Etsako West Constituency 1. According to the motion, “We, the under listed and undersigned honourable members represent-

ing the various constituencies in the Edo State House of Assembly have, on this day 3rd of May 2016, resolved to impeach our speaker, Hon. (Chief) Victor Edoror Tiger and the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Osayande for acts of gross misconduct.” Before Edoror’s ouster, a speaker ex-tempo, Mr. Patrick Iluobe, was appointed by the lawmakers to preside over the business of the day. The new speaker, Ativie, announced the suspension of impeached speaker, Edoror, for three months for invading the chambers with thugs. Ativie, who briefed newsmen shortly after the former speaker was impeached, said the House took the decision to impeach the speaker on grounds of high-handedness, dictatorial tendencies and financial recklessness. "The removal of the speaker is a victory for democracy and freedom for Edo House of Assembly;

we are all witnesses to how he has brought the House to disrepute. "We have taken this decision today because he invaded the hallowed chambers with thugs; due process was followed in the impeachment of the speaker," Ativie said. According to her, a fiveman committee had been set up to investigate the finances of the House from June 2015 to May 2016. The new speaker said the impeached speaker has over six pending alleged financial cases before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). She stated that the lawmakers cannot tolerate an indecent character to occupy the exalted position as speaker of the hallowed chamber. The house added that a five-member committee, headed by the lawmaker representing Akoko Edo constituency one, Mr. Kabiru Adjoto, will carry out full scale investigation into the alleged financial reck-

lessness of the impeached speaker between June 2015 and May 3 this year. But Edoror said he remained the elected speaker of the house. He said that only 11 lawmakers were at the sitting in the hallowed chambers when he was impeached. Edoror described his impeachment as unfortunate. "What they have done this morning is not legal. We will set up a committee to investigate the matter. We are not going to suspend anybody," Edoror said. A team of anti-riot policemen and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) were quickly drafted to the Assembly complex to maintain peace and orderliness. It was gathered that the house under Edoror had recently summoned some

Abuja

Arms deal: Again, FG fails to produce Dasuki in court Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

gain, the Federal Government, yesterday, failed to produce former National Security Adviser (NSA), Colonel Sambo Dasuki (rtd) before an Abuja High Court where he is standing trial over alleged diversion of N6 billion meant for the purchase of arms. The Department of State Services (DSS) has held Dasuki in custody since December 2015. When the matter came up yesterday, prosecuting counsel, Oluwaleke Atolagbe informed the trial judge, Justice Baba Yusuf, that he had made serious efforts through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to contact the DSS to produce the first defendant (Dasuki) in court

and regretted that as at the time the court was sitting, his efforts did not yield fruitful result. The counsel informed the court that there was no indication that the former NSA would be brought to court for the trial, even though the witnesses are in court and that also Rotimi Jacobs (SAN) who was supposed to be the lead prosecution counsel was at the Court of Appeal for a different matter. Atolagbe appealed that the matter be stood down pending the arrival of Jacobs in court to come and shed more light on the absence of Dasuki. However, counsel to one of the defendants, Salisu Shuaib, a former Director of Finance in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Akin Olujimi (SAN) said that the coming into court of Jacobs

would be inconsequential in the absence of the first defendant (Dasuki). Olujimi told the court that the prosecution had failed to produce the defendant in court and ought to admit that and asked for adjournment. He argued that it is settled in law that trial cannot go ahead in the absence of the defendant and prayed the court to grant adjournment to the prosecution to enable them take steps to produce Dasuki in court on the adjourned date. Olujimi also asked the court to issue a stern warning to the prosecution to be serious in the trial and to ensure that Dasuki is produced in court at all stages of the trial as demanded by law. In his own submission, counsel to Aminu BabaKusa, a former Executive Director at the Nigerian

National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Solomon Umor (SAN) submitted that “ordinarily, the prosecution ought to apply for a bench warrant against Dasuki for failure to appear in court for trial, but noted that in the instant case, the prosecution would not do so because they are the one responsible for the absence of Dasuki because of his unwarranted detention. In his ruling, Justice Yusuf said that that it was the responsibility of the prosecution to produce the defendant in court as required by law, but regretted that the prosecution has unfortunately abdicated this responsibility today as far as this case is concerned. The court, however, held that the conduct of the prosecution had been good in the past and consequently adjourned till May 23.

26%

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

877

The number of fatalities in terrorists’ violence involving civilians in 1998. Source: Satp.org

Catholic bishops pledge to help Buhari fight corruption Anule Emmanuel

L-R: Company Secretary, Custodian and Allied Plc., Mr. Adeyinka Jafojo; Chairman, Chief Michael Ade Ojo and Managing Director, Mr. Wole Oshin, at the 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the company in Lagos...yesterday

commissioners in Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s cabinet. Also, under the watch of the embattled ex-speaker, the house sacked 18 local government chairmen without reference to the state governor; a matter our correspondent gathered did not go down well with the state government. The lawmakers were also against the impeached speaker for not protecting their collective interests.

he Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has pledged to work with President Muhammadu Buhari to build a united, morally upright and corrupt-free Nigeria. The Catholic bishops, led by Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, the Archbishop of Jos, spoke at the presidential villa, Abuja on Monday night when they visited the president. "We are willing to collaborate with you and with your administration, in which we see hope for a greater Nigeria,” he told the president. The bishops pledged continued prayers for Nigeria and the government, expressing their conviction that current hardships are temporary, and Nigeria will soon overcome its present difficulties. Buhari assured the bishops that his administration was working very hard to fulfill all the promises it had made to Nigerians, adding that his greatest motivating factor now is the desire to bring positive change to Nigeria. In an interview with State House Correspondents after the meeting, Kaigama said the group presented a publication on corruption to the president. “This is a book I just presented to Mr. President. Since 1960, the Nigerian Catholic Bishops have been talking against corruption and telling people to avoid it. “It is a cancer, it is dangerous and it is a social

disease. So, we have compiled this to assure Mr. President that we are 100 per cent with him in the fight against corruption. “And with corruption we cannot progress, with corruption everything goes wrong, immorality takes over, retrogression instead of progression takes place. “So, corruption is a huge obstacle that has to be dismantled,” he said. The bishop said the meeting also provided the opportunity for the Catholic bishops to appreciate Buhari's genuineness and sincerity to positively change the country. According to him, the bishop found Buhari a sincere man with great sense of dedication who wants the best for this nation. “We had a warm and cordial meeting. We heard the president talk with passion about how to make this country better and to mobilise all Nigerians to selflessly put in their best. “We assured the president of our prayers, moral support and our desire to cooperate. In Catholic church, whether it is education, healthcare or social services, we have done quite a lot over the years,” Kaigama said. He added: “With the willing disposition of the president and his attitude of embracing everyone, we felt we should spell out some areas of closer collaboration. Speaking on the recent attack on John Cardinal Onaiyekan, the cleric said, “It was one of the acts of criminality that we witness in Nigeria. You cannot say who did what. It is criminal.”

NEWS

WednESday, May 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Finally, National Assembly submits adjusted budget to Presidency Philip Nyam and Chukwu David Abuja

t last, the National Assembly yesterday submitted the adjusted copy of the 2016 Appropriation Bill to the Presidency for further scrutiny and onward transmission to President Muhammadu Buhari for his assent. New Telegraph, however, gathered that the reviewed budget which was earlier transmitted to the president at 1:10a.m. on Tuesday was “surprisingly” returned to the National Assembly about 12 noon due to some observations made by the president. A Presidency source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told New Telegraph that the document, which was again reviewed had left the custody of the National Assembly and was now with the executive arm. The source said that members of the joint Appropriation Committee of the Senate and the House of Representatives met at an enlarged meeting with principal officers and the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma. The meeting said to have lasted from 3p.m. till about 5:30p.m. yesterday, worked at the document especially the observations raised by the president before finally transmitting to him for assent. The source said: "We have received a copy for preview. We are meeting with them about 3p.m. to 4p.m. because it was to be consensual working. Ministers will look at what they

have done so that it will be agreed fully that this is what will be presented. We have received the preview copy, not the final copy that will be forwarded." The source also said that the assurance by the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, that the budget would be signed this week would be fulfilled. "The assurance will be kept because the vice president is the head of the economic team," the source said. On the changes carried out on the former document passed by the National Assembly, the Presidency source said that he was not privy to the changes done on the budget. "I'm not going to speak on what they changed. My job is to bring them (Executive and Legislature) together. My job does not entail knowing what is the content or no content," he said. The source further told our correspondent that the controversial areas of the budget had been removed so that the budget could be signed into law. "They are being eliminated one by one. And Nigerians will be happy when the budget is passed. They are being eliminated and reduced. It will be a budget for Nigeria made by Nigerians," the source assured. On the report that the padding in the budget has been reduced from N500 billion to N70 billion, the source said: "I don't even know which one is padding. I am not aware of N500 billion padding, not to talk of reducing it to N70 billion. "We want to make sure that it is done properly so as to keep each other's powers intact. The executive has its

NBS commences survey on corruption across Nigeria Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

he National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) is collaborating with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the European Union (EU) to conduct a national survey on the quality and integrity of public service in Nigeria. The bureau, which announced this yesterday in a statement by the Statistician General of the Federation, Dr. Yemi Kale, said the survey was a follow up to a pilot survey earlier conducted on the same issue in Delta, Oyo, Katsina and Kwara states. "This baseline survey’s main objective is to collect evidence-based data on the different forms of corruption affecting the daily life of average Nigerian citi-

zens," Kale said. Other objectives of the survey include direct experiences of corruption events by citizens, opinion and perception of citizens about recent trends, patterns and policies on corruption, experience of reporting corruption and other crimes to public authorities’ access to justice. To this end, Kale added that the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) would be covered in the survey. "NBS interviewers will visit 33,300 households from April 30 to May 19 to solicit for information during the survey. The Bureau seeks the cooperation of respondents in volunteering accurate information to interviewers during the data collection exercise," the statement added.

powers; very enormous. The small powers of the legislature is preserved. So in matters like these, it is the legislature that is the boss. So, we the executive have to respond. We are the ones begging them to pass budget." All attempts to get some of the principal officers and the review committee members to confirm or deny the story proved abortive as some of them switched off their phones while those whose phones were active ignored calls and refused to respond to text messages. But a source privy to the budget imbroglio confirmed to New Telegraph that the budget was actually submitted to the president but he refused signing it due to some issues he was

not comfortable with. “The budget got to the Villa (State House) at 1:10a.m. and Mr. President went through it early this morning and still had some issues with some of the figures. I cannot tell you exactly what it was but I think the insertions made by the lawmakers were not significantly altered. “You know the lawmakers had moved some allocations for key projects that are dear to the president to other areas especially to their constituency projects. Of course, they have changed some but I believe Mr. President is not satisfied with the reconciliation they did. I think this is one of the reasons it was returned,” the source explained. Although, the source

17%

The percentage share of New York Times that Carlos Slim Helu owns (the highest shareholder). Source: Forbes.com

14m

The total followers of MLB players in 2016. Source: Goal.com

could not mention any definite amount, New Telegraph investigations revealed that the N500 billion diversion of funds to constituency projects was “what is given the president headache” A lawmaker, who is not a member of the review committee but a member of the standing committee on appropriation, told

our correspondent in confidence that the “president want a situation whereby the insertions should be reduced to about N50 billion before he will sign the budget”. According to him, the reviewed copy, which was sent Tuesday morning did not cut substantially from the N500 billion. Meanwhile, as at the time of filing this report, it was learnt that the leadership of the National Assembly was meeting with the executive in the Aso Rock Villa, to take final decision on the budget. When the Senate spokesman, Aliyu Sabi, was contacted for his comment, he declined to say anything on the budget, saying that he had not been briefed at all on the matter.

L-R: Wife of the President, Mrs. Aisha Buhari; President of Cameroon, Paul Biya; President Muhammadu Buhari and wife of the Cameroonian president, Chantal, during Biya’s visit to Buhari in Abuja… yesterday. PHOTO: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN

CBN officials swoop on Fidelity Bank's Hq Enugu Commissioner of Police removed CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

2015 elections. New Telegraph gathered that the bank’s executive committee had already made a comprehensive presentation to the CBN on the transactions and the visit by the compliance department of the apex bank was to enable CBN officials to compare transaction documents with the presentation made by the committee. Okonkwo has been in the custody of the EFCC since Wednesday last week, as part of investigations into transactions made in the run-up to presidential elections last year. The lender had maintained that the transactions were duly reported to the appropriate agencies, as required by law. It said in statement that it was “cooperating fully with the authorities on the investigation.” Financial institutions are required by the AntiMoney Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Regulations, 2013 (as amended) to forward their AML/ CFT Compliance Manual to the CBN for off-site re-

view of the document, as well as carry out enhanced customer due diligence for high risk customers and effective Know Your Customer (KYC) processes. Last Monday, the bank issued a terse statement, announcing the appointment of Alhaji Mohammed Lawal Balarabe, as its Acting Managing Director/ Chief Executive. According to the statement, “In the absence of the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo, the Board of Directors has appointed Alhaji Mohammed Lawal Balarabe, Executive Director North as Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive of Fidelity Bank Plc with immediate effect subject to regulatory approval. “The bank reassures all its stakeholders including over 400,000 shareholders and 3.4 million customers of its continued seamless services.” Meanwhile, shares of the bank yesterday traded down marginally by 5.98 per cent to close at N1.10 per share, as analysts said that investors had started getting worried over the issue.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

you, a criminal in Borno is the same as a criminal in Enugu State and in Imo State and Osun State. So, we must begin to separate criminals from wherever they come from and treat them as criminals.” Shettima traced the history of relationship between the North and Enugu State, recalling that the first Mayor of Enugu State, Alhaji Umaru Altine, was from Katsina State in the North. He said: “In a period like this, we must be able to maintain clear-headedness about the challenges that face us as a country and we know that these are very difficult times for our country. Times like this call for sobriety, for maturity, for levelheadedness and I want to pay a special tribute to my brother, the governor of Enugu State, for showing leadership in moments of crisis." Ugwuanyi expressed happiness for the sympathy visit, saying that it was “heart-warming and goes to confirm that Nigerians, all over the country, do share a common sense

of grief and loss with us over this unfortunate incident.” “I recall that most of you had earlier, during our last meeting, extended condolences to me, but your coming here in person today, also demonstrates your love and high regard for the people of Enugu State.” The chairman of Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Ambassador Lawrence Agubuzo, said the only appeal they have for the Federal Government was to fish out the perpetrators of Nimbo killings and to prevent similar thing from happening anywhere else in the country. Meanwhile, the Enugu State House of Assembly yesterday called for the redeployment of all security chiefs in the state. The lawmakers lamented the alleged the dereliction of duty and criminal betrayal by the security agencies, which resulted in the attack. The House maintained that what transpired at Nimbo should be conveyed to all the international human rights organisations.

WednESday, May 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

THE HOPE Wednesday August 31, 2011

ADEKUNLE AJASIN UNIVERSITY

Page 17

P.M.B. 001, AKUNGBA-AKOKO, ONDO STATE OF NIGERIA

www.aaua.edu.ng st ...building a 21 Century University, properly called!

ADVERTISEMENT FOR VACANT POSITIONS

Applications are invited from suitably qualified and interested candidates for the following positions in Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria. 1. PRINCIPAL OFFICERS POSITIONS REGISTRAR · Responsibility The Registrar is a Principal Officer and the Chief Administrative Officer of the University. He/She is also the Secretary to both the Senate and Governing Council. The Registrar shall be responsible to the Vice Chancellor for the day-to-day administration of the University except on matters for which the Bursar is responsible. · Requirements A good Honours Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) plus a Master's Degree in relevant discipline from a recognized University and must have a minimum of fifteen (15) years cognate experience in a University or an Institution of comparable status, at least three (3) of which must have been spent as a Deputy Registrar in a University. Computer literacy is compulsory. · Tenure The successful candidate shall be appointed for a single term of five (5) years. · Remuneration and Conditions of Service The remuneration and other conditions of service are as applicable to the post of a Registrar in Nigerian Universities and as may be determined by the University Governing Council from time to time. BURSAR · Responsibility The Bursar is the Chief Financial Officer of the University. He/She shall be responsible to the Vice Chancellor for the management of the finances of the University. · Requirements Candidate must possess B.Sc. Degree in Accounting with at least Second Class (Lower Division) plus MBA or M.Sc. in relevant discipline from a recognized University, and must be a full member of a recognized professional accounting body such as ICAN, ACA, ACCA, ACMA and CPA plus a minimum of fifteen (15) years cognate experience, at least three (3) of which must have been spent as a Deputy Bursar in a University. Computer Literacy is compulsory. · Tenure The successful candidate shall be appointed for a single term of five (5) years. · Remuneration and Conditions of Service The remuneration and other conditions of service are as applicable to the post of a Bursar in Nigerian Universities and as may be determined by the University Governing Council from time to time. 2. ACADEMIC STAFF POSITIONS Academic vacancies exist in the following faculties: Faculty of Agriculture Department of Animal Production and Health Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Department of Agricultural Economics Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Department of Agricultural Extension Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Department of Forestry and Wood Technology Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I Department of Crop Science and Pest Management Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Faculty of Arts Department of Performing and Film Arts Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Faculty of Education Department of Vocational and Technical Education Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Department of Human Kinetics Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Department of Adult Education Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Faculty of Social and Management Sciences Department of Accounting Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Department of Banking and Finance Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II Faculty of Science Department of Biochemistry Senior Lecturer REQUIREMENTS PROFESSOR (CONUASS 07) A good Honours Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) plus a Doctorate Degree. He or she must have not less than fifteen (15) years, of teaching and research experience in a University, or an equivalent Institution. In addition, he or she must demonstrate ability to initiate and direct research projects as well as have substantial scholarly publications in recognized and reputable journals and other verifiable outlets. Proven evidence of academic leadership and ability to attract research grants is essential. READER (CONUASS 06) A good Honours Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) plus a Doctorate Degree. He or she must have not less than twelve (12) years, of teaching and research experience in a University, or an equivalent Institution. In addition, he or she must demonstrate ability to initiate and direct research project as well as have substantial scholarly publications in recognized and reputable journals and other verifiable outlets. Proven evidence of academic leadership and ability to attract research grants is essential. SENIOR LECTURER (CONUASS 05) A good Honours Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) plus a Doctorate Degree. He or she must have not less than nine (9) years, of teaching and research experience in a University, or an equivalent Institution. In addition, he or she must demonstrate ability to initiate and direct research projects as well as have substantial scholarly publications in recognized and reputable journals and other verifiable outlets. Proven evidence of ability to attract research grants is essential. LECTURER I (CONUASS 04) A good Honours Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) plus a Master's degree with thesis in his/her field of specialisation from a recognised University. He or she must have at least six (6) years, of teaching and/ or research experience in an equivalent Institution and have some published articles in recognized and reputable journals and other verifiable outlets. Or A good Honours Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) plus Master's and Ph.D Degrees with thesis in his/her field of specialisation from a recognised University, with at least three (3) years of teaching/and or research experience in a recognized University or an equivalent Institution. Evidence of some publications in recognized and reputable journals is required for this position. LECTURER II (CONUASS 03) A good Honours Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) plus a Master's Degree with thesis in his/her field of specialisation from a recognised University. He or she must have at least six (6) years, of teaching and/ or research experience in an equivalent Institution and have some published articles in recognized and reputable journals and other verifiable outlets. Or A good Honours Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) plus Master's and Ph.D Degrees with thesis in his/her field of specialisation from a recognised University. Evidence of publications in recognized journals would be an added advantage. 3. ADMINISTRATIVE AND TECHNICAL STAFF POSITIONS DIRECTOR OF WORKS AND SERVICES (CONTISS 15) Requirements Candidate for the position of Director of Works and Services must possess a good Honours Degree in Civil, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, with at least Second Cass (Lower Division) from a recognised University and must have fifteen (15) years post qualification cognate experience in a University or any Institution of a comparable status, eight (8) of which must have been spent in Senior Management. Registration with COREN is required while possession of a Master's Degree in a relevant discipline will be an added advantage.

DIRECTOR OF HEALTH SERVICES (CONTISS 15) Requirements Candidate for this position must possess requisite medical qualification, i.e. MBBS or MBCHB and be registered with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) plus a Master's Degree or Fellowship in Public Health or related clinical discipline. He/She must, in addition, have at least fifteen (15) years post qualification cognate experience in the Health Services of a University or equivalent Institution with substantial involvement in the administration of the Health Services. DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICES (CONTISS 14) Requirements B. Pharm. or B.Sc. Pharm. Degree from a recognized University plus Master's Degree in the relevant field and must be registered with Pharmacists' Council of Nigeria (PCN). In addition, he/she must have at least twelve (12) years postqualification cognate experience in the Health Services of a University or an equivalent institution. DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF NURSING (CONTISS 14) Requirements · A good Honours Bachelor Degree with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division) in Nursing from a recognized University plus Master's Degree in the relevant Field and must be registered with the Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria. He/she must, in addition, have at least twelve (12) years post-qualification cognate experience in the Health Services of a University or an equivalent institution. Or A good Honours Degree with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division) in Nursing plus a PhD in relevant field from a recognized University and must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria. He/she must in addition have at least nine (9) years post-qualification cognate experience. DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL LABORATORY SERVICES (CONTISS 14) Requirements · A good Honours Bachelor Degree in Medical Laboratory Science or related discipline with a minimum of Second Class (Lower Division) from a recognized University plus Masters Degree in relevant field and must be registered with the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN). In addition, he/she must have at least twelve (12) years post-qualification cognate experience in the Health Services of a University or an equivalent Institution. DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF MEDICAL RECORDS SERVICES (CONTISS 14) Requirements · A good Honours Bachelor Degree in relevant field with at least Second Class (Lower Division) from a recognized University plus Master's Degree in relevant field and must be registered with the Health Records Officers Registration Board of Nigeria (HRORBON). In addition, he/she must have at least twelve (12) years post-qualification cognate experience in the Health Services of a University or an equivalent institution. PROCUREMENT OFFICER I (CONTISS 8) Requirements · A good Honours Bachelor Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) in Accounting /Economics/ Marketing/Purchasing and Supply from a recognized University plus final examination of the Institute of Purchasing and Supply. Or A good Bachelor Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) in Accounting/ Economics/Marketing/Purchasing and Supply from a recognized University. In addition, he/she must have at least three (3) years post-qualification cognate experience in the Procurement Unit of a University or an equivalent Institution. SENIOR PROCUREMENT OFFICER (CONTISS 9) Requirements · A good Honours Bachelor Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) in Accounting/ Economics/ Marketing/Purchasing and Supply from a recognized University, plus membership of the Institute of Purchasing and Supply. Or A good Honours Bachelor Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) in Accounting/ Economics/Marketing/Purchasingand Supply from a recognized University. In addition, he/she must have at least six (6) years post-qualification cognate experience in the Procurement Unit of a University or an equivalent Institution. CHIEF ACCOUNTANT (CONTISS 13) Requirements A good Honours Bachelor Degree in Accounting or related discipline with at least Second Class (Lower Division) from a recognised University. The candidate must be a full member of a recognised professional Accounting body such as ICAN, ACCA, ACMA & CPA and must have at least nine (9) years cognate experience, two of which must have been in a University or an equivalent Institution of higher learning. SENIOR ACCOUNTANT (CONTISS 9) Requirements · A good Honours Bachelor Degree in Accounting with at least Second Class (Lower Division) from a recognised University, plus full professional qualification from a recognised Accounting body such as ICAN, ACCA, ACMA & CPA. · A good Honours Bachelor Degree in Accounting with at least Second Class (Lower Division) from a recognised University plus six years of cognate experience in the University or an equivalent Institution. CHIEF SUPPLIES OFFICER (CONTISS 13) Requirements · A good Honours Bachelor Degree from a recognised University, with at least Second Class (Lower Division) in Economics/ Accounting/Business Administration, plus membership of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supplies (CIPS) and must have at least twelve (12) years post qualification experience in a University or an equivalent Institution. Or A good B.Sc. Degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) in Economics/ Accounting/Business Administration from a recognised University plus M.Sc. Degree in relevant discipline or MBA plus membership of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing And Supplies (CIPS) and must have at least nine (9) years post qualification experience in a University or an equivalent Institution. · METHOD OF APPLICATION Interested candidates for Principal Officers' position should submit 25 copies while candidates for other positions are required to submit 15 copies of their applications and Curriculum Vitae, together with photocopies of their certificates and relevant credentials. Detailed curriculum vitae should include: i. Full Names (Surname first) ii. Place and Date of Birth iii. State of Origin/Local Government of Origin iv. Nationality v. Permanent Home Address vi. Current Contact Address vii. Marital Status viii. Number and Ages of Children ix. Name and Address of Next of Kin x. Post Desired xi. Names of Educational Institutions attended with Dates xii. Statement of Work Experience xiii. List of publications, research fellowships and grants (for academic positions) xiv. Names and Addresses of three (3) Referees. Candidates should request their Referees to forward their references under confidential cover on their behalf directly to the University before the close of submission of applications. CLOSING DATE Applications for the positions of Registrar and Bursar, with supporting documents, should reach the University, not later than four (4) weeks from the date of this publication and should be addressed to: Vice Chancellor, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba- Akoko, P.M.B. 001, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria. Applications for other positions, with supporting documents, should reach the University not later than four (4) weeks from the date of this publication and should be addressed to: The Registrar, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, P.M.B. 001, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State. Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted. Signed: Mr. M. S. Ayeerun Ag. Registrar

NEWS | national

wednesday, may 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Artificial placenta keeps premature babies alive

Appolonia Adeyemi

rtificial placenta that mimics conditions in the womb has been certified as capable of saving the lives of million preterm babies from complications of prematurity. Researchers from the University of Michighan (U-M) have designed the placenta which they said could improve survival rates of preterm babies. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that some 15 million babies are born too early every year and almost one million of them die from preterm birth complications. The placenta (also known as afterbirth) is an

organ that connects the developing foetus to the uterine wall to allow nutrient uptake, provide thermoregulation to the foetus, waste elimination, and gas exchange via the mother's blood supply, fight against internal infection and produce hormones to support pregnancy. The placenta provides oxygen and nutrients to growing babies and removes waste products from the baby's blood. According to a report in the Daily Mail, the man-made placenta uses a pump to circulate blood through an artificial lung and back into the bloodstream of the baby and provides gas exchange without mechanical ventilation. A pregnancy normally

lasts about 40 weeks, but some occur before the 37th week—deeming the birth premature, which is the number one killer of newborns globally. More newborns in developing countries especially in sub Saharan Africa die as a result of prematurity. Extremely premature are births occur before 28 weeks, which is puts newborns at even higher risk as their organs are unable to function properly. Although still in preclinical stages, researchers at the University of

2.03m

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

Michigan say the artificial placenta “holds the promise of normal growth and development outside the womb for extremely premature infants until they are ready for postnatal life”. The university has shown that its external placenta is somewhat successful, as it has kept five extremely premature lambs alive for weeks “We thought, 'Why don't we solve the problem of prematurity by re-creating the intrauterine environment?'' said Mychaliska. The artificial placenta is designed around an extracorporeal membrane oxidation (ECMO) system that uses a pump to circulate blood through an artificial lung and back into the bloodstream.

L-R: Managing Director/ Editor in Chief, Vanguard Newspapers, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye; Publisher, Cable, Mr. Simon Kolawole; Producer, “NOT IN MY COUNTRY” Anti-Corruption TV Campaign Project, Mr. Akin Fadeyi and Representative of the Minister of Health, Mrs. Bosede Akinola at the media launch of “NOT IN MY COUNTRY” in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO:GODWIN IREKHE

The lives of the premature lambs depend on the university securing $2.7 million in funding to push the research along. Over the next five years, the team hopes to demon-

APC: NEC should resolve N56, 000 minimum wage demand Johnchuks Onuanyim Abuja

he All Progressives Congress has called on its National Executive Council, NEC, to look into the N56, 000 minimum wage demand made by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for workers. The APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, who made the call yesterday in his office in Abuja, stated that the solution also must be within the present economic realities. Speaking further on the development, the party chairman explained that the delay in the release of the Board and Chief Executives of Federal Parastatal appointments was as result of the pruning down of the ministries.

Abuja

Six days after abduction, Anisulowo regains freedom Abeokuta

olice yesterday rescued for mer Minister of State for Education, Senator Iyabo Anisulowo, six days after she was abducted. Two suspects were also arrested in connection with her abduction. Anisulowo, 65, was kidnapped last Wednes-

According to OdigieOyegun, who fielded questions from journalists on the delay on the federal appointments by the presidency stated that there was likelihood that the parastatals would also be punned down. He, however, assured that the Federal Government would soon release the Board and Chief Executives appointments. Responding to the delay, Oyegun said: "Well, l assure you it will come out. The only thing is that the merger of ministries brought a lot of questions as to whether the parastatals and agencies would not also be merged. So, these processes are being gone through and l give you the assurance that sooner than later their announcement would be made".

Buhari receives cameroonian President, Biya Anule Emmanuel

Kunle Olayeni

strate that an artificial placenta can re-create the intrauterine environment and support a fetal premature lamb until it is deemed a normal newborn.

day while returning from her farm at Sawonjo in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State. Her Toyota Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) with registration number LSD 115 AM was recovered by the police shortly after the incident. Though details of her rescue were sketchy at press time, it was learnt that the former minister regained her freedom

from her captors about 7p.m. at Gbegbelawo village, near Olorunda town in Abeokuta North Local Government Area of the state. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the rescue last night. He said: “The police have rescued Senator Iyabo Anisulowo at a village called Gbegbelawo, near Olorunda town,

Ogun State, today (yesterday) about 7p.m. Two suspects were arrested.” Police deployed two helicopters in the search for the former minister and also offered N5 million reward to informants. Also yesterday, Governor Ibikunle Amosun, who had vowed that Anisulowo would be rescued unhurt, expressed delight at the rescue of the former minister.

resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday received the President of the Republic of Cameroon Paul Biya at the presidential villa, Abuja. Biya who was on a twoday state visit to Nigeria arrived the villa about 2:15pm alongside his wife Chantal, and senior Cameroonian government officials on the visit and was treated to a ceremonial parade by officers and men of the Brigade of Guard. Buhari was joined to receive the visiting Cameroonian leader by his

wife Aisha. The two leaders after the reception ceremony proceeded to a close door meeting which our correspondents gathered featured bilateral discussions. Presidents Biya and Buhari were expected to have discuss issues of common interest to Nigeria and Cameroon, including ongoing bilateral and regional cooperation against terrorism, violent extremism and cross-border crimes. Both leaders did not, however, speak at the end of their meeting which lasted for over three hours.

FG to retrieve stolen Benin artefacts from UK NERC: EEDC has 70% unmetered customers Philip Nyam Abuja

he Federal Government has concluded arrangements to retrieve all artifacts and portraits stolen from ancient Benin Kingdom and sold abroad, but have been found at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom. Minister of information, culture and national orientation, Alhaji Lai Mohammed disclosed this at the sectoral debate organized by the House of Representatives on the diversification of the Ni-

gerian economy. Mohammed also disclosed that the government plans to establish arts and craft centres across the 774 local government areas of the country, lamenting that tourism as of today contributes less than 1.5 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He said the sector was the main revenue earner in most countries but “unfortunately, in Nigeria, this sector contributes less than 1.5 percent to the GDP” the minister noted that although, “this is the only sector that

creates employment opportunities for those who ordinarily would have been unemployable, either due to lack of skills or lack of education. It is the only sector that is for the under privileged and the poor, it is a sector that brings peace and stability to the polity. It fosters unity and it discourages rural/urban migration. “Regrettably, this sector faces many challenges today, ranging from institutional to logistics and then financials and these challenges have not helped the sector to achieve its potentials”.

Johnchuks Onuanyim Abuja

he National Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC has revealed that the Enugu Electricity Distribution Companies, EEDC, has about 70 percent of unmetered customers, as the acting Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Anthony Akah decried the complaints of estimated billing against EEDC. A statement by the acting Head, Media Unit of NERC, Christie Iliya, quoted Akah as saying

at the inauguration of the Abakaliki Forum Office of the commission in Ebonyi State, that the Commission was closely monitoring EEDC and other distribution companies to ensure that the metering gap in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry, NESI estimated at about fifty per cent should be eliminated within the shortest possible time. Akah stated that available statistics to the commission indicates EEDC had 732,423 customers, with 70 per cent or 512 335 of them unmetered, a development he described

as unacceptable for quality service delivery. The NERC chief executive decried the situation where EEDC had not commenced its meter roll plan as contained in the performance agreement signed with the Federal Government when the new owner took over the electricity distribution company about two years ago. EEDC has as part of its performance agreement to ensure an average of 100,000 meters was installed within its network on an annual basis over the next five years.

WednESday, May 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

METRO

ABIODUN BELLO

...CRIME, CITY WATCH, COURTS

How police murdered my father, by boy, 10

Juliana Francis

10-year-old boy has narrated how policemen attached to Ayinla Police Division, Agbado in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State tortured his 45-year-old father, Sina Adewuyi, to death. The boy, Jonathan, said the incident occurred on Saturday at number 4, Itoki Road, Itoki, a community in the local government area. The deceased, a bricklayer, hailed from Ilesha in Osun State. The victim’s son, an apprentice trader, said about 4p.m. on the fateful day, a team of policemen came to extort money from his master, a spare parts dealer, whose shop is located in the compound where the deceased lived with his family.

abiodun.bello@newtelegraphonline.com 08023938212

He said: “My master, Dona Okey, told the police he had no money. He used to give the police money whenever they come. When my father came out of the house, he saw the policemen and became curious. He demanded to know what the police came to do. But they shouted at him and asked what he was waiting for and that he should go away. “But my father told them he lived in the compound. They said ‘so what?’ and started to beat him for having the gut to challenge them. He tried to run away, but they chased him, caught up with him, hit him with the butts of gun and asked him to enter their bus. He refused. But they bundled him into the bus and took him away. He did not return till about 10p.m. He was in pains and with marks

Mrs. Adewuyi

Late Adewuyi

of brutality on his body. He was complaining of headache and chest pains. We bought pain reliever for him, but he vomited it. “My mother said we would take him to the hospital in the morning since it was already late. But around 5a.m. on Sunday, he died.” Jonathan said the family rushed to Sango Ota Area Command under which Ayinla Police Division falls, to report, but they were advised to go and ‘incident’ the matter at Ayinla Division. According to him, the matter was reported at Ayinla. He added: “Police came to our house, took photograph of my late father before he was taken to the mortuary for autopsy. They said we should come back to the station the following day. I went with my father’s family mem-

bers. They brought many policemen for identification parade. I was able to identify two among the policemen who took my father away after beating him.” When contacted, the Area Commander, Sango Ota Area Command, Adegoke Fayoade, confirmed the report. He said the two suspects identified had been transferred to the state Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Muyiwa Adejobi, said there was an allegation that policemen from Agbado beat somebody to death. He said: “We have commenced investigation. Two policemen have been arrested. If they are found culpable, they will face the music. We

are waiting for the autopsy report of the deceased. “If the result proves he was beaten to death, whoever did that will face the music. We are in the era of modern policing. The question of unknown police is no longer tenable.” Meanwhile, Adewuyi’s widow, Tunrayo, has called on Governor Ibikunle Amosun, the Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, and the Federal Government to come to her assistance and ensure the killers of her husband are brought to book. She said: “He is the bread winner of the family. I am only a petty trader. I have six children, four boys and two girls. I am 35 years old. We got married in 2002. Who will help me? I don’t have anybody. The government should come to my aid.”

I’ve impersonated a soldier for eight years –Suspect Court remands five for beating Muritala Ayinla tanker driver

fficials of the Lagos State Task Force on Environment and Special Offences Unit yesterday arrested a suspected fraudster, who claimed he had impersonated Army officer in several police stations, Army barracks and Lagos metropolis. The suspect, Mr. Gorge Edem, said he had been parading himself as an Army captain for over eight years and collecting money from innocent people who had cases with the police and Nigerian Customs Service (NCS). Edem added that he had deceived many Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) in Lagos State on different cases where he had collected millions of naira. He had also impersonated Army officer to secure release of

impounded vehicles and motorcycles. But nemesis caught up with Edem, who claimed to be residing at Flat 11, Block 2, Intelligent Quarters, Nigerian Army Cantonment, Ojo, Lagos, when he stormed the ‎task force headquarters, Alausa for the release of a ‘Boxer’ motorcycle with classis No MD2A18AZ3FMW which was impounded at Oshodi. The fake Army captain had harassed both police and paramilitary officers demanding to see the chairman of the task force immediately. He was eventually ushered in to see the chairman. But Edem was discovered to be a fraudster when he couldn’t respond to some of the questions asked by the task force Chairman, SP Olayinka Egbeyemi. The suspect later confessed

that he was just an engineer and not an Army officer. Edem, however, appealed for leniency from members of the public and the police.

Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

Edem

n Osogbo Magistrates’ Court yesterday remanded five suspected touts in Ilesha prison, Osun State, for reportedly beating a tanker driver to coma. The accused, who were said to have constituted nuisance at Akepe area of Osogbo by unleashing terror on motorists plying the roads, committed the offence on April 30 about 9p.m. The accused, Toheeb Waheed (14), Adama Ganiyu (16), Moshood Raji (20), Rilwan Rauf (14) and Adelusi Sunday (23), according to police prosecutor, Sergeant Rasaki Olayiwola, inflicted inju-

ries on the left eye of the tanker driver, Mr. Akeem Tijani, following his refusal to give them N10,000, which they demanded as ‘owo orita’ (money paid at the junction). Olayiwola told the court that “the accused, after beating Tijani to coma, also damaged mirror valued at N30,000 and finisher valued at N50,000 of his tanker with registration SGB 248 XB”. Though the accused pleaded not guilty to a four-count charge of conspiracy, malicious damage and assault slammed against them, Olayiwola maintained that the offence committed was contrary to and punishable under sections 516, 355, 451, 249 (D) of the Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol. 11, Laws of Osun State.

METRO

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Three die, others injured in Lagos-Ibadan road fire Kunle Olayeni and Taiwo Jimoh

hree persons were feared killed while 15 others sustained serious injuries in an accident at Lotto junction, Mowe, on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday night. The crash was said to have happened when a fuel-laden tanker ran into herds of cattle crossing the road. The incident led to a gridlock on Tuesday morning on the ever-busy expressway as traffic was diverted to a single lane. It was learnt that the tanker, which was travelling to Ibadan, crushed some of the cattle, killing The burnt truck four of them instantly. In the process, the tanker veered off its course and spilled some of its its content. content onto the highway. It was gathered that the vehicle Sources said tragedy, however, being towed on its rims caused a struck when a towing truck which friction on the road tarmac, which was conveying a vehicle earlier consequently caused a spark and the involved in an accident, got to the whole area was engulfed in fire. spot where the tanker had spilled A fire truck belonging to the Ogun

State Fire Service, which was earlier deployed to the scene to prevent fire outbreak, was consumed alongside three persons. One of the firefighters, identified as Ayo Adedeji, was said to have been seriously injured.

When contacted yesterday, the Public Relations Officer of the state Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), Babatunde Akinbiyi, said the accident occurred about 11p.m. on Monday. He said: “Our men on ground at the scene said the fire incident occurred around 11p.m. Though the fuel tanker ran into a herd of cows around 3:30p.m. and spilled its content, as it veered off the road, the owners of the truck brought another tanker and transferred the product into it, and moved it to its destination. “Around 11p.m., a towing vehicle was passing by, and it was towing another vehicle, which had no tyres. The rims were having direct contact with road and this led to a spark, and it resulted into a huge fire, which consumed the tanker, fire fighting truck and three persons.” Akinbiyi said the injured persons were taken to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, for treatment.

Gunmen abduct UNICAL lecturer, students S

even armed men yesterday abducted a lecturer in the School of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar (UNICAL), Dr. Stephen Ndifon. The gunmen invaded the residential quarters of the university in Calabar, Cross River State, and abducted Ndifon as well as two students of the institution. It was learnt that the suspected kidnappers, who came in a speedboat through the Obufa Esuk River near the university staff quarters about 4a.m., were shooting indiscriminately before they stormed Ndifon’s house to abduct him and the students. Another lecturer, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the students abducted were living in Ndifon’s boys quarters. He said: “They came in from the water, which is quite close to the residential quarters and shot sporadically to scare away even our security men before invading Dr. Ndifon’s house to kidnap him.” At press time, the abductors were yet to contact anybody or make demand. The UNICAL Information Officer, Effiong Eyo, said the matter had been reported to the police and investigation was in progress. Sources said residents usually contribute money to pay some policemen to keep guard around the quarters but

were surprised that the gunmen did not meet any resistance during the invasion. “We usually contribute money to assist the university security men to keep vigil around the quarters because the place is quite desolate and is frequently invaded by thieves and robbers,” one of them said. At the time of filing this report, no demand has been made by the hoodlums and the Information Officer of the University, Effiong Eyo said the matter has been reported to the police and investigation was in progress.

University of Calabar gate

Teenager beheads mom for ‘making’ him impotent Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

17-year-old boy, Iorzenda Agayo, yesterday told journalists that he beheaded his mother because she made him impotent. Agayo, who reportedly murdered his mother in KatsinaAla Local Government Area of Benue State, spoke at the state police command headquarters in Makurdi, the state capital. He was paraded alongside 16 other suspected criminals arrested for various offenses such

as cultism, drug trafficking and armed robbery. Speaking with journalists, Agayo said he killed his mother because he was told by a herbalist that she was responsible for his impotence. According to him, he was misled by his friend who informed him that his problem would be solved if he killed his mother. When our cor respondent sought to know if he had become potent after he murdered his mother, the suspect became emotional. He broke down and wept profusely.

According to him, he still cannot sleep with a woman even after he hacked his mother to death. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Moses Yamu, paraded suspects. He said Agayo and other suspects would soon be charged to court. Yamu added that the police were on the trail of the kidnappers of the Vicar General of Otukpo Catholic Diocese, Rev. Fr. John Adeyi, who was abducted over a week ago. The PPRO promised that the police would do everything possible to rescue him alive and unhurt.

City Briefs

Robber arrested after snatching N350,000 ‘Market demolition will render 500,000 jobless’ Dominic Adewole ASABA

olice in Delta State yesterday arrested a 28-year-old suspected robber after he and his gang members robbed a man, Roman Marshan of No. 3 Onofor Close, off New Ogorode Road, Sapele, of N350,000. Marshan had just withdrawn the money from the Warri Refinery branch of Ecobank when the three-man gang in a tricycle trailed him, accosted him and collected the money at gunpoint. Nemesis, however, caught up with the suspects after men of the Dragon Patrol Team received the information and went after them.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Celestina Kalu, said in Asaba that the team chased the tricycle to Aziza Junction on Sapele Road. She said: “The robbers, upon sighting the patrol team, abandoned the tricycle and jumped into the bush. One of the suspected robbers identified as Victor Ebigwe of No. 1 Ohe Okpe community was caught by the dragon patrol team Kalu listed the items recovered from the suspects to include one locally-made singlebarrelled gun, two live cartridges, one black bag with a face cap and one blue tricycle with registration number SKL 181UM. The PPRO said the suspect and items had been handed over to the Ebrumed Division while investigation was ongoing.

Temitope Ogunbanke

ivil Liberties Organisation (CLO) and traders have appealed to Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode to stop the proposed demolition of Olorunsogo Market, Oshodi because it would render about 500,000 people jobless. Addressing a press conference in Lagos yesterday, Head, Campaign and Strategy, CLO, Chijioke Odom, urged government to desist from all actions capable of upsetting the peaceful coexistence and trading activities in the market. He said: “We implore Governor Ambode to use his good offices to call the Ministry of Physical Planning to order

so that these threats against the lawabiding marketers in Olorunsogo Market are abated. The governor must know that every segment of the civil society, the trade unions and the members of the public are eagerly watching to see how this matter would be resolved. “The CLO demands that the Lagos State government should toe the path of honour by guaranteeing an immediate cancellation and perpetual reversal or abrogation of its plan to demolish the market because from our investigation, personal interest is solidly behind the demolition.” Also speaking, the Baba Oloja of Olorunsogo Market, Mr. Adeyemo Adewale, urged Ambode to stop the proposed demolition.

NEWS | national

wednesday, may 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Protect free press,US Consul-General Synagogue’s engineers' trial commences May 21 advises Nigerian media Akeem Nafiu

Mojeed Alabi

s stakeholders in journalism across the world yesterday marked this year’s edition of the annual World Press Freedom Day, the United States Consul General in Lagos, John Bray, has called on the nation’s journalists to keep fighting towards achieving a free press and a neutral Internet in Nigeria. He said that the society relies on the media to offer objective information on major issues that impact the country. This is as a non-governmental organisation focused on the safety of journalists, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), revealed that between 1992, when it started compiling the list of journalists attacked in the course of their journalism work, till date, a total of 1,189 journalists have been killed globally. A sizeable number of these victims, including the late Mr. Bayo Ohu of The Guardian newspapers, were said to be Nigerians. Speaking yesterday at a programme organised by the United States Consulate General Office in Lagos, Bray said for democracy to thrive, there has to be transparency and accountability and that a free press and civil society shoulder the burden of holding governments re-

sponsible for their actions or inactions. He said his home country does not only defend a free press with vigour “but we also monitor other governments how they operate when it comes to a free press. “Each year, the State Department gathers information and reports how press freedom is operating as part of our human rights assessment. The report is disseminated to governments, the news media, and civil society. Countries that condone the oppression of the press are exposed in the human rights report, which helps them to take steps to uphold the freedom of the press. In our public and private engagement we defend and reinforce a free press,” Bray said. Meanwhile, the nation’s association of journalists, the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), yesterday said it would not fight for the safety of those it described as ‘blackmail journalists,’ saying many bloggers and online users have thrown the ethics of the job into the dustbin and have, therefore, become irresponsible. Speaking at the event, the West African Representative of CPJ, Mr. Peter Nkanga, while advocating for responsible and balanced reporting, insisted that it was only when journalists are free to do their work that soci-

Tinubu tackles Orji on food security bill Chukwu David Abuja

he lawmaker representing Lagos Central senatorial district in the National Assembly, Senator Oluremi Tinibu, yesterday tackled former Abia State Governor, Senator Theodore Orji, who is representing Abia Central in the senate, on his bill seeking to guarantee food security in the country. The bill was entitled; "A Bill for an Act to make provisions for freedom from hunger and the right to adequate food of acceptance quality: The right of every child to basic nutrition and for connected purposes." In his lead debate on the bill, which received overwhelming support from senators, Orji noted that Nigeria was one of the few countries of the world that had no legal framework for food secu-

rity. He said sequel to this legal lapse, there was no accessibility to quality and adequate food security by Nigerians, noting that the bill, if passed, would compel government to provide quality food as part of its primary responsibilities to the citizens. However, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in her contribution, blamed the former governor and the past administration for doing nothing to boost agriculture in order to guarantee food security in Abia and the country in general. She challenged Orji to show Nigerians what he did in Abia State to ensure food security during his eight years in office as executive governor. Tinubu lamented that the failure of governors and the immediate past administration of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in general, had contributed to impoverishing Nigerians.

ety can develop. He called on the Consul General, to use his office to advise the government of his home state against giving grants or any material support to individuals and organisations whose actions and projects are against the interest of the common man. The National President of NUJ, Mr. Waheed Odusile, while reacting to the allegation that the body of journalists does not fight for the freedom of abused journalists, accused many journalists of abandoning the ethics of the profession and also abdicating their responsibilities to the union. Odusile revealed that the union was already working towards presenting a bill to the National Assembly for the review of the constitution on the need to guarantee press freedom and not only the freedom of information as currently captured.

he trial of the two engineers indicted over the collapse of a six-story building within the premises of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) is to start on May 21 before Justice Lateef Lawal-Akapo of an Ikeja High Court. The date was fixed yesterday after the duo

of Oladele Ogundeji and Akinbela Fatiregun, were granted bail by the judge. Justice Akapo in a ruling on the two engineers' bail applications upheld the arguments of the defence lawyers in urging the court to exercise its discretion in favour of the defendants. Consequently, the engineers were admitted to bail by the judge in the sum of N10 million each with two sureties in like sum.

One of the sureties, according to the judge, must be a civil servant, who is not less than Grade Level 14 officers while the second surety must be a property owner in Lagos State. Also the sureties must provide evidence of three years tax payments, in addition to the conditions, such must present utility bills to verify their addresses, which will be verified by the police.

Call for retrenchment: NLC lambasts Okupe Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

former Senior Special Assistant to former President Goodluck Jonathan on Information, Dr. Doyin Okupe has drawn the ire of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) with his advice

21%

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

to state governors to retrench civil servants as a panacea to irregular payments of salaries. Okupe had few days ago said governors should resort to laying off workers, arguing that "virtually all state governments have over- bloated civil service." He said between “2008 and 2009, Ogun State received N2 billion monthly from the federation account and paid out N1.8billion as staff salaries, wages and overhead costs” to civil servants, not more than 50,000 in a

state with a population of 5,000,000. But in a reaction to this advice, NLC President, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, said the former Presidential Assistant was bandying political statistics which he said was neither good for his health nor the health of those with whom he seeks to ingratiate himself. The NLC President also challenged him to disclose how much his monthly gross pay was before President Obasanjo showed him the exit door. L-R: Coordinating Director, Domestic Tax Group, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Bamidele Ajayi; Executive Chairman, Mr Tunde Fowler and Chairman, Ad Hoc Committee to investigate the accounting procedures of the FIRS, Hon. Michael Eyong, during an investigative hearing at the National Assembly in Abuja… yesterday. PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

Witness tells court how NIMASA’s N60m was withdrawn

Compliance Officer with Access Bank Plc and a prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of Patrick Akpobolokemi, Mr. Oliver Enwerem, yesterday testified about how N60 million was withdrawn from the account of Gama Marine Limited, a contractor with NIMASA. Enwerem made the revelation before a Lagos High Court sitting in Igbosere, in the heart of the city. A former DirectorGeneral, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Akpobolokemi, is standing trial over alleged theft of N754.7 million belonging to the organisation. He was charged alongside six others; Ezekiel Agaba, Ekene Nwakuche, Amechee Juan, Vincent Udoye, Adegboyega Olo-

poenia and a company, Gama Marine Nigeria Limited. They are standing trial on a 13-count charge bordering on stealing and forgery, preferred against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Enwerem, was led in evidence by the antigraft's agency counsel, Mr. I. A. Mohammed. He said the money was withdrawn in three tranches from Gama Marine Limited's account with the bank in favour of the fifth accused. Enwerem said that on February 2, 2015, there was a credit of N67.5 million paid into Gama Marine Limited's account by the Committee on Maritime. He also said that on the same day, there was a credit of N28 million and

a N39.5 million that were paid into the account of Gama Marine. The witness also testified that between February 10 and 11, 2015, there was a withdrawal of N60 million from Gama Marine, which was paid in favour of Vincent Udoye, adding that it was withdrawn in three tranches. However, during cross examination, Enwerem admitted that the first, second, third, fourth, sixth and seventh accused were not beneficiaries in the above mentioned transactions. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that at the last adjourned date, the trial was stalled due to the failure of the prosecutor, who appeared for the EFCC to produce the fiat of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

Reps, pensioners ask FG to invest pension funds in infrastructure Philip Nyam Abuja

etirees under the auspices of the National Union of Pensioners (NUP) have called on federal and state governments to invest their pension funds in infrastructure so as to alleviate the suffering of this category of persons known as senior citizens. The group made the call at a one-day public hearing of the House of Representatives Joint Committees on Pension, Finance and Capital Market and institutions held at the National Assembly. In a presentation made to the joint committee, NUP National President, Dr. Abel O. Afolayan, implored government at all levels to make efforts at repositioning pension administration by investing in infrastructure projects across the federation.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Kogi Bello's many troubles

Politics

Interview I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t become governor by accident â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ohakim

12 14

Averting herdsmen's time bomb Incessant attacks on towns and villages across the country by suspected Fulani herdsmen have triggered divergent shades of views, but the Senate seems to have been spurred to action by the recent attack on Nimbo community in Enugu State. CHUKWU DAVID reports

rom January 2016 to date, nomadic cattle rearers have carried out deadly and devastating attacks on many communities, particularly in the Middle-Belt states and some southern states. For instance, in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, the herdsmen sacked 10 communities and killed not less than 500 persons, while setting houses ablaze. Also this year, about 25 local government areas in Delta State grounded traffic on the Benin-Asaba expressway over alleged killing of over 23 persons by the herdsmen. Within the area of that invasion, the police reportedly recovered 20 AK-47 rifles, 70 dane guns, 30 double-barrel guns and over 1,000 live ammunition, mostly from the herdsmen. Similarly, farmers in Lagun, Iyana Offa, Offa, Atagba, Lapata and their surrounding communities in Lagelu Local Council Area of Ibadan, Oyo State, recently alleged that a group of Fulani armed men attacked their communities at night, injured a guard and carted away valuables worth millions of naira. The herdsmen also attacked two villages in Gashaka Local Government Area of Taraba State and killed many people. The latest is the attack on Nimbo Community in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, where over 50 people were reportedly killed and houses razed includ-

FELIX NWANERI

GROUP PoLITICAL EDITOR nwanerif@newtelegraphonline.com

ÂŠ Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Agatu orphans protesting against killings by Fulani herdsmen

ing at least two churches. The Enugu attack provoked serious agitation across the South-East, South-South and the South-West. It equally sparked off intense reactions in both chambers of the National Assembly. In the Senate, far reaching resolutions were made including the summoning of security chiefs to come and brief the lawmakers on the activities of fleeing Boko Haram members and herdsmen terrorists and what the government was doing to contain their threat to the peace, security and unity of the country. The Upper Chamber also set up a six-member ad hoc committee to holistically look into the menace of herdsmen, with a view to proffering a lasting solution to the problem, while calling on the security agencies to improve on their intelligence gathering capabilities and be proactive rather than reactive to threats to internal security, especially in cases where there was credible intelligence to act on to safeguard lives and property. The Red Chamber also urged the security agencies to enforce the laws on arms bearing by unauthorised persons with clandestine motives to harm others. It also called on the Nigerian Police to expedite action on the establishment of rapid response units around communities, where herdsmen had carried out attacks in recent times. The resolutions were made following a motion brought on the floor of the Chamber by Senator Chukwuka Utazi (PDP, Enugu North), under matters of urgent public im-

The problem is a very serious one; people cannot remember history, this is how the civil war started

portance. In his lead debate, Senator Utazi told the Senate that the people of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area in Enugu State were attacked by Fulani herdsmen in the early hours of Monday last week, killing about 38 persons, with hundreds sustaining various degrees of injuries. He lamented the uncountable heinous attacks of herdsmen on innocent citizens, saying that terrorists hiding under the guise of cattle rearers, have killed thousands of citizens in the last three years. Contributing, most senators cautioned on the dangers of activities of herdsmen in the country, warning that they pose a great threat to national unity and peaceful coexistence of the various ethnic nationalities that make up the country. However, it was observed that the debate tilted towards geo-political and religious dichotomy. While senators from the south, who are essentially Christians, vehemently condemned incessant attacks on innocent citizens by the herdsmen, their core northern counterparts, who are mostly Muslims, appeared to be on the defence of the herdsmen. But Senator Ben Murray-Bruce (PDP, Bayelsa State), in his contribution to the debate on the motion, said: "The herdsmen are now considered one of the worst terrorist organisations in the world today. They are a deadly force; they have turned Nigeria into a very dangerous country. They have been going around killing, raping, maiming innocent people. "They have killed more people

in Nigeria on an annual basis than Boko Haram. It is true they are very dangerous but here is my problem; they have killed more people than Boko Haram and I will be happy to provide the statistics. "The problem is a very serious one; people cannot remember history, this is how the civil war started. My problem right now is when regular people start retaliating and that day is here and that day is now." On his part, the Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Sola Adeyeye, suggested that state and local government police should be established for effective policing of towns and villages in this era of terror attacks. In his remarks, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over the session, urged the government to live up to its responsibilities by promptly attending to the needs of the people. He said: "We have said so much regarding this very matter. We have to do this because to the ordinary people of Nigeria, what they know is that we are all in government. There is no difference between the executive, legislature and judiciary. So, we are all held responsible in issues such as this." While the Senator Ali Ndume-led ad hoc committee was mandated to come up with solutions to the menace of herdsmen, Nigerians are waiting to see whether its propositions would be articulated and implemented promptly to avert further occurrences or they will go the way of past recommendations.

POLITICS PLATFORM

Buhari must address structural problems – Nyiam Tony Nyiam is a retired army colonel and a delegate to the 2014 National Conference. In this interview, he speaks on federalism and implementation of the report of the confab, among other issues. TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE reports In recent times there have been different ethnic attacks and the recent and most worrisome one was the Fulani herdsmen attacks on a community in Enugu State. Does it mean that Nigerians cannot cohabit in peace? It is not that we cannot cohabit in peace. What we are experiencing now are effects and effects have causes. And if you deal with effects, you can never solve the problem because effects do not happen by themselves; effects are caused by something. It is so sad that all these years, we refused to look at the mother cause of all the effects we are experiencing. The mother cause of all the experience we are facing is that we continuously negate the principle of federalism. A country like ours is a country of many ethnic nations and therefore it has to be governed in a federal way. The moment you don’t do that, you will have the problem we are having now. For example, Ethiopia was having for years, the kind of conflict we are having and after some years, they accepted what they call ethnic federalism. Ethiopia is the fastest growing and most peaceful country in Africa right now. But we are experiencing what we are facing in Nigeria because we refused to do the right thing by recognising nations. God created languages and nations, so you cannot wish away ethnic nations. The Russians did it when they had USSR (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics); it didn’t work. Yugoslavia also tried it, it didn’t work. Yoruba is a nation, Igbo is a nation, Hausa is also a nation and we must recognise them. Once we recognise them, we can then build a true federal Nigeria. Without doing that, we shall be going two steps up, four steps backward. So, the issue of one ethnic person attacking the other is all an indication of the refusal o f

Nyiam

5 Questions

our leaders to restore Nigeria to true federalism. How do you think we can marry ethnicity and religion, and how do you think people can coexist happily? We can only coexist happily if you allow people to determine their future within the nation state. In South Africa, there was a saying, ‘Let my people go,’ which means you have to allow people to determine their future within the nation state. That is what is important. This is not theory; the moment you don’t allow the South-West to be South-West and South-East to be South-East and you want everybody to conform to one government, one centre; it would not work. No matter what President Muhammadu Buhari does, the changes he is embarking now is only changing the leaves and branches of a tree; he has neither goten to the stem of the tree nor has he got to the root of the tree. In other words, all the changes will come to nothing if he does not go to the structural causes of the problems. You can fight corruption and arrest people, but if you did not deal with the structure that encourages corruption, you have not started. How you think the government can solve the structural problems? We need to restore Nigeria back to what Nigeria really is; a country of many nations. That is federalism as it was in the case prior to the military taken over in 1966. Some people are of the view that the report of the 2014 National Conference will address Nigeria’s problem if implemented. What is your take on that? If the decisions reached at the National Conference were followed, things would have been resolved. Would you advise President Buhari to implement the National Conference report, considering that his party APC was against its convocation? I think President Buhari is a man who can act if he is convinced by anything. I think he needs to be convinced that we cannot run away from restoring Nigeria back to true federalism, which was adequately addressed at the last National Conference.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Kogi State governor, Mr. Yahaya Bello, is not having it rosy in the Confluence State after taking up affairs of the state four months ago. WALE ELEGBEDE looks at the various battles the youngest of the 36 governors is fighting and asks if he will be able to surmount them

hough he is in his early 40's, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State knows that the game of politics is not a child's play, and that in many instances, one has to be a very fast learner to be able to master its art and sophistry. Coming on board as a child of circumstance, the last four months for the Kogi governor has been a baptism of fire in politics, since this was his first adventure in elective office. The death of the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Prince Abubakar Audu, mid way in the announcement of the result of the November 21 election, put the nation's Constitution and the Electoral Act on the spot, as there was no provision on what should be done in such a scenario. After consultations, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) allowed the APC to substitute its late candidate with Bello and he subsequently won the supplementary election. He took his oath of office as the fourth democratically elected governor of the state on January 27, 2016. Unlike the usual warm reception and understanding that new governments enjoy before issues start to throw themselve at them, the Kogi governor met a very hostile environment, even within his party APC. In fact, some members of the party saw him as a usurper, who, according to them came to reap where he did not sow. While some are blaming the governor for resorting to aligning himself more to the centre with little concern about what transpires at home, others are castigating the 'youthful' governor of empowering members of the opposition as against the major players in the party. After four months, the governor already have so many things to chew and there are no indications that the issues may subside very soon. The State Assembly crisis The Confluence State came under legislative turmoil when two factions in the state House of Assembly were up in arms against each other over who leads the chamber. The Assembly is made up of 25 members, but the number was reduced to 20 last December following judicial pronouncement by the Appeal Court sacking five of the lawmakers. After weeks of intense battle, the bickering between the two factions in the Assembly reached its crescendo on February 16 when five members of the house sacked the Speaker, Hon. Momoh Jimoh-Lawal and elected Hon. Umar Imam to take over from him. The new ‘speaker’ who was part of the five who impeached the speaker was reportedly sworn-in at the office of the Deputy Governor, instead of the assembly chambers. With the puncturing of the relative

peace in the state legislature, the National Assembly decided to intervene in the affairs of the state legislature. After series of fact-finding missions, the federal lawmakers eventually took over the responsibilities of the Assembly and ordered the Inspector-General of Police to seal up the legislative chamber. Interestingly, the group, led by Jimoh-Lawal, who incidentally is a kinsman to Governor Bello, believes that the crisis in the Assembly was orchestrated by an unseen hand from another arm of government. According to the group, Governor Bello directed the script that was played out by the group of 5, positing that the governor was bent on removing his Ebira tribe kinsman in order to be the most influential public office holder in the district. However, the governor absolved himself of any interference or having a hand in the crisis rocking the Assembly. Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Abdulmalik Abdulkarim, he said. “To drag the name of the governor to the crisis in the Kogi State House of Assembly is in the least, uncharitable. The crisis in the House of Assembly predates the present administration in the state,” he said. The election tribunal At the governorship election tribunal, Governor Bello is dealing with petitions against his declaration as the winner of the December 5, 2015, supplementary election. Perhaps, the most formidable of the petitioners is the one by former running mate to Audu, Hon. James Faleke and the former governor of the state and the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Capt. Idris Wada. The tribunal, which was relocated to Abuja from the state capital, Lokoja, has Justice Halima Mohammed as Chairman and Justices Patricia Njoku and Ogbogo Elijah Ejembi as panel members. Notable among petition brought before the tribunal for determination include whether the governor violated Section 187 (1) of the constitution by contesting in the Kogi State Governorship Election held on December 5, 2015 without a running mate; whether the governor was validly nominated and whether he was validly elected by majority votes cast in the election, among others. While those opposed to the governor are of the view that his election will be annulled by tribunal given the different issues being raised by the petitioners, the supporters of the governor however believe that the governor will have the last laugh at the tribunal because he was duly picked as the candidate of the party and he emerged victorious at the poll. APC’s exco vote of no confidence Perhaps, the biggest blow to the gov-

CROSSFIRE And for those who seek to spill blood on accout of a mere party nomination exercise, the God of justice shall bring justice upon them -Pius Odubu

It is laughable that the Odubu campaign will allege that the Deputy Governor... was shot at, yet no casualty was recorded on the other side... -Adams Oshiomhole

POLITICS PLATFORM

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Kogi: Bello's many troubles

tice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, to stop meddling in the affairs of the APC in Kogi State. In defence of Bello Not wanting to have any of the attacks on the governor, APC youths across the three senatorial districts of the state rose in stout defence of the governor and subsequently passed a vote of confidence on Bello. Addressing a press conference in Lokoja, the state youth leader, Mr Emmanuel Ayo, cautioned the youth against the antics of some individuals in the state who will hide under the party to cause crisis.

Bello signing the oath of office during his inauguration

ernor’s image so far was the vote of no confidence verdict passed on him by the State Executive Council (SEC) of his party. The party executives accused the governor of sidelining the leaders and members of the party while appointing members of the opposition PDP into key positions. At a meeting held in Lokoja, the state capital, on April 11, and presided by the state chairman of the party, Alhaji Haddy Ametuo, who is from the same Kogi Central Senatorial district with Bello, the party executives said it has forwarded a letter to the national headquarters of the APC, detailing the many “sins” of the governor, urging the Chief John Odigie-Oyegun-led national executive to sanction the governor for anti-party activities. Briefing newsmen at the end of the meeting, the party’s scribe, Salam Adejo, said the approach of the governor to governance is worrisome, adding that his body language indicates that he is not ready to work with the party. He said: “I am the secretary of the party in the state, and am representing my local government in the state executive, the gover-

We gave him a number of recommendations at the level of the party, but all of them were thrown into the dustbin

nor appointed a Senior Assistant from my local government and I don’t know him in person. This is a big slap on the party. When the governor assumed office, we gave him a number of recommendations at the level of the party, but all of them were thrown into the dustbin. We are operating on parallel lines.” Speaking with New Telegraph in an interview, the state publicity secretary of the party, Ghali Usman, said, “He (Bello) is not carrying the party along, we are not calling for his removal. As soon as he carries the party along, we are okay with him. But up till now, he has not met with us.” As if that was not enough, some APC elders and stakeholders, led by the likes of Senator Nicholas Yahaya Ugbane, Senator Salihu Ohize and Chief Dare Olatunde, among others, fired another salvo at the governor, accusing him of relegating the party to the position of “an opposition”. The stakeholders, however, added a fresh twist to the lingering crisis when they urged President Muhammadu Buhari to prevail on the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Jus-

The Governor reacts Speaking with New Telegraph on the various issues threatening the serenity of the state, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Kingsley Fawo, absolved the governor of all the assertions, stating that the Bello is doing his best to create a new Kogi that will be a confluence of opportunities. “Those against the governor are those who are determined to resist change. The resources of the state is going into the hands of those who are contributing nothing to the development of the state. We have people who live in Kaduna, Kano and Lagos and their names are on our payrolls. “On assumption of office, the governor decided to embark on staff verification exercise to determine the actual number of genuine workers in the state. Reports emanating from the panel are mind-boggling. We have many ghost workers, ghost schools, ghost clinics. Ghosts have basically destroyed the economic space of Kogi State. “This is the main sin of the governor. He is trying to remove tick from the dog. Kogi cannot continue to pay those who live and spend their resources in other states. We need a radical change and that is what the governor is doing." From the developments in the Confluence State, it is clear that sleep has been murdered by the different forces pushing to exert influence on governance in the state. It is however expected that the various interests will bury their rifts and harmonise their positions before external forces hijack the crisis for their pecuniary gains.

POLITRICKS

Kashamu as S’West PDP leader? Police to the rescue hat the inaugural Federal them with some tips, this parhead of the 2019 general thoughts are of the view that Government's organised ticular local government chief Aelections, the political re- there is more to the issue, since T Town Hall meeting held in La- called their bluff. Sensing he alignment in the South-West this is not the first time, he will gos has come and gone is no news. But for the Executive Secretary of a local government (names withheld), April 25 is a day he won't forget in a jiffy. Just after the end of the parley, he stepped out of the City Hall, venue of the town hall meeting alongside his colleagues and while they were waiting for their chauffeurs, a group of street urchins, popularly called area boys, approached them for 'settlement'. While others obliged

wasn't ready to 'drop' for them, the area boys made for his agbada, and in a jiffy, the elegantly dressed young politician was disrobed. Confused on what to do, the embarrased LG official sought the help of policemen attached to the area. It ended well for him as the police came to his rescue, picked up two of the boys and they eventually produced his agbada. Who says Police is not your friend?

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is gradually taking shape and one man at the centre of it is Senator Buruji Kashamu, who was recently declared South-West PDP leader by some of chieftains of the party in the zone. Though Kashamu, who is representing Ogun East Senatorial district in the Red Chamber had refuted his purported declaration as South-West PDP leader, some school of

be put on the spot. He was accorded the same position prior to the 2015 general elections by some PDP leadersbecause of his position as Chairman, Organisation and Mobilisation Committee of the South-West PDP. Now that the PDP has no specific leader in zone, the question on the lips of many members of the party ahead of 2019 polls is: Will Kashamu be the new South-West leader?

POLITICAL NOTES

INEC’s unfinished business

he delay by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conclude rerun elections in six senatorial districts in Anambra, Kogi, Imo and Rivers states has put the electoral umpire on the spot once more. Nigeria had on March 28, 2015 held federal legislative election into the country’s 469 federal legislative seats; made up of 109 senatorial seats and 360 House of Representatives seats. But 12 months after the poll, a number of outstanding reruns abound. The electoral umpire is yet to conclude rerun elections in all the three senatorial districts in Rivers State, Anambra Central, Kogi East and Imo North even when the courts ordered that the polls be conducted within 90 days. By the country’s 1999 Constitution and Electoral Act of 2010, judicial enquiries into any dispute associated with the outcome of any legislative poll so conducted, must end in eight months or within eight months; starting from 21 days after the official announcement of the results. The available laws further provide for conduct of a postelection rerun or related others in 90 days or within 90 days, on account of nullification of the original poll and ordering of new one by a court of last instance (i.e. Court of Appeal). That is to say those legal disputes associated with the conduct of polls into the country’s 469 federal legislative seats on March 28 2015, mandatorily commenced in April 2015 and mandatorily concluded in December 2015 (six months of procedural proceedings plus two months of appellate proceedings), while the appellate court ordered reruns or related others; must be commenced and concluded in March 2016. But these laws and judicial orders have been observed in gross breach by your electoral Commission till date thereby denying the people of the five senatorial districts quality and deliberative legislative representation since December 2015. It was against this backdrop that the Senate’s condemnation of INEC’s inability to conclude the polls, following a point of order raised by Senator Ben Murray-Bruce (PDP, Bayelsa East) last week, has been commended by most stakeholders. The International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law, (Intersociety) alongside South-East-based coalition of human rights organisations, which is on the same page with the Senate on the issue, warned that further delay in the conduct of the re-run polls could lead to anarchy. No doubt, there is no justification for the delay but the country cannot afford another round of crisis as it already has its hands full given the spate of insecurity across the nation.

FELIX NWANERI

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

I didn’t become governor Chief Ikedi Ohakim was the governor of Imo State from 2007 to 2011. He won the election on the platform of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), but later defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He speaks on his journey so far in politics, his administration and the legacy he left for the people of the state. FELIX NWANERI brings the excerpts At what point in your life did you start thinking about politics? I think it came very early and naturally, because I was following the footsteps of my father who was a community leader. It might interest you to know that at the age of 25, I became the president of my town union, which was the first of its kind in my area. So, it has been natural. No matter what I do, I am still close to my people and community, being sympathetic to issues of leadership and governance. It has been natural to me. You have been involved in Imo State politics and governance since 1992, when then Governor Evan Enwerem appointed you a commissioner at quite an early age. How did it happen and what is the experience like? Chief Evan Enwerem of blessed memory in partnership with other leaders considered me worthy, considered my contributions both at the community level and the corporate level and decided that I would have a role to play and the first ministry that was allocated to me was Commerce and Industry, and my ministry was responsible for the first development summit of Imo State, which was printed in a book form at the end of the day. We were able to attract foreign investors as far back as 1992/93. But unfortunately, by November 1993 there was coup in the country and that administration was overthrown. There were allegations against me, including the fact that a permanent secretary, who worked with me, witnessed against me, I still went through them. That incident thought me a big lesson in life. My mother told me that every document that I signed then, that I must return a copy to her because no one knows tomorrow. I did obey my mother and that helped me. All the documents they forged against me, when I brought out the original copies, people were shocked. And even as a former governor, most of the things I did I placed a lot of importance on keeping records and that has saved me. If you look at the situation we have in this country today, I am walking the streets upon all the allegations leveled against me; upon all the propaganda against my administration, I have not been found guilty because I did things the way they were supposed to be done and I followed due process to the letter. I never saw the cheque book of Imo State Government. I operated in accordance with the requirement of the system. We never awarded any contract without design, we never awarded a contract without going through tender. We never awarded any contract to a

contractor that was not registered. We made sure the contractors were registered, and they must provide Advance Payment Guarantee and Performance Bond. We never involved in any project that was not properly supervised. No single contract failed throughout my administration. No contractor ran away with One naira throughout my administration. There was no project that we undertook that did not add value to our vision. I have not been found guilty in any court of law. I have not been to any police station all my life, reporting anybody or writing a petition. And that is my life; as simple as that. As I speak to you, I have no piece of land anywhere in Imo State other than the one my father gave to me in my village. You are also aware that the three bedroom bungalow I have in Owerri was the house I built in 1992/93. Apart from that house, there were allegations that I own more than half of Owerri, but people have now discovered that this is mere political allegation and propaganda. And you know, allegation and propaganda have lifespan. When they expire and you have nothing to say, you lose credibility, and the man you leveled all the allegations against will begin to rise on that crest. So, I thank God Almighty that I did the right things. Today, I wouldn’t have had anybody to defend me. But my happiness today is that there is nothing anybody has alleged against me that has been proven. Many had thought that you would have quit politics because of the 1993 experience but you never did and later emerged as governor in 2007. How did that happen? I believe in doggedness. I believe in starting something and finishing it, because my God is a finishing God. I don’t start something and leave it half way. Like I told you, I didn’t just emerge as governor from nowhere. I ran for the Senate in 1999 and people knew about that. I ran for governorship in 2003 and people knew. I also ran for governor in 2007. I don’t know what you mean by how it happened, but it just happened. I ran for an election, I ran one of the most professional elections and I had my own strategy. My being governor was not one percent accidental; I knew what was going to happen. I laid out my plans clearly. I have never done anything in this world without planning and without doing my SWOT analysis, without looking at what could happen, without looking at moves that my opponents could make. I had vision

Ohakim

My being governor was not one per cent accidental; I knew what was going to happen

for my people. I had vision for the development of our state. I had vision to create an economy, vision to create employment. I had vision to take our people higher, to make sure that we operate in a clean and green environment, because cleanliness is next to godliness. And then I believe in law and order. Throughout my regime you could not see anywhere there was thugery. There was no political assassination in Imo throughout my tenure as governor. Nobody’s house was burnt, no opponent, and I repeat, no opponent was chased away from Imo State. I allowed the political space for everyone. I was a pure democrat and I still remain a democrat. I believe in the philosophy of my party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Our policy was purely on the people, the survival of the people, because you must survive, you must eat before you talk about other things. We must begin to create jobs for our teaming masses. You had a vision before you became governor. Were you able to put your vision to work and make it come through?

We did, but we still have an unfinished business. The critical thing in this country is that we must begin to educate our people. Policies that can rekindle the economy, policies that can create the kind of societies and economy we are looking for usually take a long gestation period. If you want to build for the mob rather than the masses, you can begin to build town halls. These days, I have learnt that people can even award road contracts with mouth and people will begin to tar roads. Those are not critical things. If you want create an economy, if you want to rekindle an economy, if you want to create a system where people will be employed, you require a long period of time. You must put governance structure in place. There are certain things that require law. I listened to a Lagos State Commissioner for Transport speaking to the media about the banning of okada (motorcyclists), and he talked about law in Lagos State banning okada, and I was so happy. In Imo State, when we took the bull by the horn, when first term governors were afraid to take certain decisions, we banned okada, and there was a law to that effect. When we launched the Clean and Green Initiative, there was law backing it. When we set up the Environmental Transfor-

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

by accident – Ohakim

mation Commission (ENTRACO), there was law backing it. When we set up the Imo Roads Maintenance Agency (IRROMA), there was law backing it. For everything we did, there must be a bill to the House of Assembly and a public hearing. For example, we set up a refinery. A refinery is not what you use your mouth to award the contract and it would begin to happen. First of all, we acquired the land from Ohaji/Egbema people, 250 hectares. We got the President of Nigeria and took our report to him. We led a delegation of Igbo leaders to him, and the then President gave us an approval to partner with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with us. We got the foreign investors, who wanted an account of Imo State. We had to prepare an account of Imo State, from 10 years before we came in. We got it right. And there are other approvals you need to get to partner with people. These things take quite some time. There are certain approvals you would need from the National Assembly, and they have to be presented to the National Assembly and they would have to sit and deliberate on them. So, anybody who thinks we did not realise our dream may be right in one and wrong in the other way. But that does not stop us from going about

to do those things that would keep our people alive. Let me give you one example. In 2009, because of the breaking of oil pipelines, our Organisation of Oil Exporting Countries (OPEC) quota which was two million barrels, but we were barely making 700,000 barrels per day. But in Imo we sat down and said that our place is a rural place and we don’t have industries that are paying tax, and if we begin to lay off our people, and graduates are coming up every day; what do we do to make sure that money circulates in the rural communities. Instead of laying off people we decided that we would employ. That was how we began the process of creating 10,000 graduate jobs and 30,000 non-graduate jobs. Remember that even a newspaper wrote an editorial on it; that how could a state government create 10,000 graduate jobs in that condition. It said that it was practically impossible. But because we wanted the son of the poor to be able to get graduate job without knowing a commissioner, without knowing anybody, we decided that we must hire an international consultancy firm, and we brought in KPMG. Working with KPMG and our civil service commission, they decided that they were going to conduct examinations using the internet, and then in my wisdom, I said no,

I have no piece of land anywhere in Imo State other than the one my father gave to me in my village

that if you bring our people together in one place for the exam, there would be cataclysm. We created a center in Kaduna, a center in Lagos, four centers in Imo, a center in Abia and one in Rivers State and asked Imo people to apply. We advertised it widely. While this process was going on we were being flogged left, right and center, everywhere, to the extent that someone even went to court to stop the process. These guys took the examination and it was marked instantly and the process of recruitment started. It was not done in 2010. The process started in 2009. And we gave them these graduate jobs, permanent employment. 250 of them were moved to the judiciary, and our goal was that at the age of 30-something we would be able to produce judges from them. The most economic advantage of that programme was that at the end of every month, we would have N450 million pumped into the rural communities by salaries of these graduates. And we created IRROMA, to make sure that 16,000kilometre roads would be maintained. And then we looked at the situation that people must access our state capital and the idea that you could access the capital from any community in 40 minutes. Before we came in, from Ogboko, the hometown of the present governor, you would require two and half hours to get to Owerri. You can confirm that. We got an internal company, because of the erosion prone areas, to do the 32 kilometre road linking the governor’s village to Isiekenesi, and to Osina, with six bridges. When we did that we started opening up the rural areas. We made sure that every access to the capital was properly designed, the drainage properly channeled and the road properly done so that it would become a state capital. We created employment and we started these key projects that would revolutionise our economy. We got foreign investors and went to the capital market. And you know what it means, the discipline required to go to the capital market. We did all that and got the money. But you know that out of the N18 billion we got from the capital market, not the N100 billion people were talking about and going to sue us in court, we left 13.3 billion in an interest yielding account in UBA, which we handed over to my successor.

Are you saying that you handed over N13 billion to Governor Rochas Okorocha in 2011? Yes! We had N13.3 billion in an interest yielding account in UBA and I handed it over to my successor to continue the Wonder Lake project for which we had employed 2,000 people. But unfortunately, is it fortunately, I don’t know, when you leave office it is no longer your business what they do with money. The governor applied for change of purpose and the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) granted him change of purpose for that money. So, no one can accuse us that we did not achieve our goals. Your opponents also accuse you of

leaving uncompleted projects in the state. I took over from someone, His Excellency Chief Achike Udenwa, who for example started the Annual Free Medical Service, where he brought medical doctors from all over the world who traversed the 19 general hospitals in the state, conducting examinations and performed surgeries. I did not stop that project. I continued with it. He started the teaching hospital, in fact, he commissioned the hospital, but I continued it. He left about eight roads when I came on board, including the Amaraku/ Nwangele road and the Ugiri/Isiala Mbano/Ehime/Mbaise road. I continued those roads. It was Udenwa who started the Concorde road leading to the state secretariat. I completed that road. You see, it is all about continuity. Now, if we had continued the process of the refinery, by now, we would have gone half way. The Federal Government luckily was in the process and even allocated two marginal oil fields to Imo State for the partnership for the refinery. Because of that refinery, the Federal Government brought in certain projects that would help the realisation of that project. We brought in a housing estate, we got Marine Police. We got a Naval Base, the dredging of the lake, building a port, plus the Wonder Lake because of that refinery. And those who invested from overseas did so because of the refinery. So, that place would have been an industrial hub, and by now it would have created a lot of jobs. So, these are projects that require thinking, vision and project management to push. We had three critical projects that we undertook – the refinery, the Wonder Lake Resort and Conference Center and the Inner Ring Road. The Inner Ring Road was not our design. The man that designed Owerri City, Dr. Fingerhat of Fingerhat and Partners was 82 years when I brought him to Imo State in 2007, and after launching the Clean and Green Initiative on August 10, he went round the town with his two sons and said: ‘This is one of the best cities I have ever designed, a twin city.’ He said that our state capital is the only city in Nigeria that is in a valley and that there were 62 manholes designed in the city and that all have been blocked, and that if we don’t open them regularly and dredge our river, the Nworie River, the city would become a big disappointment and would have environmental problem. One is that it would be washed away; second is that you will not do any road that would stand the test of time. We went ahead to open the 62 manholes, and when it rained, people were shocked and surprised, whether it was magic. We started maintaining the structure. The man came and said that if we did not achieve anything – there are three ring roads in Imo State that make it a one city state: the Inner Ring Road, the Outer Ring Road and the Outer-Outer. The Inner Ring Road has five flyovers designed with it. The Outer Ring Road would connect about CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion

CPC: How far can it protect the people? Adewale Kupoluyi

few weeks ago, I witnessed a terrible flight delay on my way to Abuja. The delay was so much that three or four scheduled flights were either cancelled or merged. While the intending passengers waited endlessly, the most annoying thing was that, apart from the apologies being relayed via the public address system, no specific provisions was made for the passengers, who were delayed up to a period of nothing less than five hours. While chatting with other passengers that sat close to me, a lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), who was also lamenting the neglect of the passengers, had to challenge officials of one of the airlines on the legal consequence of keeping checked-in passengers for so long without offering them any form of comfort or refreshments. Sensing trouble, the airline personnel quickly made some calls and within a few minutes, people were being served some snacks and drinks. The above scenario is just one of the several ill-treatments being meted-out to Nigerians by manufacturers and service providers. It is in our dear country that the producer, rather than the consumer, is the king. Consumers are repeatedly sold fake or sub-standard products thus constituting social and economic problems not only to consumers themselves but for the manufacturers as well as the government. In a bid to curtailing these type of problems, the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) was established. CPC is a parastatal of the Federal Government, which is supervised by the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment and established by Act No. 66 of 1992 and commenced operations in 1999, when its institutional framework was put in place. Its mandate includes working towards eliminating hazardous products from the market, providing speedy redress to consumers’ complaints, undertaking of campaigns that would increase consumer awareness, ensuring that consumers’ interest receive due consideration at the appropriate forum, encouraging trade, industry and profes-

sional associations in developing and enforcing quality standards. In carrying out these tasks, the CPC adopts a number of measures such as providing speedy redress to consumers’ complaints through negotiation, mediation and conciliation; seeking ways and means of removing unhealthy products from public locations and replacing with safer alternatives; publishing from time-to-time the list of banned, withdrawn, restricted or products that are not approved by the Federal Government; causing an offending company, firm, trade association or individual to protect, compensate, provide relief to injured consumers or communities from adverse effects of technologies that are inherently harmful, injurious and disastrous. Globally, in safeguarding consumer interest, these rights are clearly defined by the United Nations Consumer Bill of Rights. They are: the right to safety by safeguarding against goods that are hazardous to life and property; right to information, consumers have the right to be informed regarding the price, quality, quantity of the products they buy; right to choice, consumers should be provided with a wide variety of goods to choose from; the right of consumers to have their complaints heard; right to satisfaction of basic needs, this right demands that people have access to basic, essential goods and services: adequate food, clothing, shelter, health care, education, public utilities, water, and sanitation and right to redress, consumers have the right to seek redress regarding their complaints. Others are the right to consumer education; the right of consumers to be educated about their rights; right to a healthy environment and the right to live and work in an environment that is non-threatening to the well-being of present and the future generations. But how far has the interest of Nigerian consumer been protected? It should be appreciated that an uninformed consumer population cannot be effectively protected, if they do not know that they have rights, what the rights are and how the rights could be protected. That is the dilemma of an average consumer in Nigeria.

It should be appreciated that an uninformed consumer population cannot be effectively protected

The problem with enforcing consumer protection seems to be diverse in the sense that consumers are not sure of what they are buying, the producers of goods are not effectively monitored to ensure quality assurance, the existing legislation does not appear to be adequate to tackle the observed lapses while offenders are hardly punished for their illegality, as very few convictions have been recorded in the course of prosecuting violators of the CPC Act to date. Violators are found in virtually every facet of our national life such as those engaging in the sale of fake and substandard drugs, adulterated food, prohibited goods and those engaging in consumers’ exploitation and providing poor services. However, a number of interventions and attempts have been made by the CPC to safeguard the interest of Nigerians. These include the agreement between the council and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in enforcing the mandatory 60-day order to electricity distribution companies (DISCOs), to either provide meter or stop billing consumers under the Credited Advance Payment for Metering Implementation (CAPMI) scheme. Similarly, the CPC was able to wade-in and resolve the allegations of consumer rights violations by MultiChoice Nigeria Limited in the provision of its Digital Satellite Broadcast Television (DStv) service to numerous Nigerian viewers. The council has also successfully intervened on the issue of far-reaching orders including the suspension of service whenever consumers were away; release of free-to-air channels even when subscription had expired; securing compensation across board to consumers for lost viewing time, introduction of local toll free lines; and ensuring reasonable and equitable spread of popular sports channels, among others. In the same vein, the company was made to subject its processes to the council’s inspection to ensure compliance with the existing directives. All these were done to ensure that Nigerian consumers were protected from exploitation and arbitrariness. • Kupoluyi writes from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State, adewalekupoluyi@yahoo.co.uk, @ adewalekupoluyi

The leadership Ndigbo deserve Jones Onwuasoanya

here are few issues in the country today that gather more consensus that the issue of Igbo leadership. The Igbos are seen as a people whose direction is as diverse as the number of people that constitute that group; Igbo. And at no time than now do the Igbos need even if not a single individual, whom they can look up to for political, then a group of few people whose integrity, courage and strength of character are not in doubt. Before the Nigerian independence of 1960, the Igbos had strong individuals like Chief Nnamdi Azikwe, Michael Okpara, Akanu Ibiam, Ozuomba Mbadiwe and many others whose voices carried weight, not just among the Igbos but in the entire country. These were people who would raise the alarm about any ill-treatment being meted out on their people and Nigeria would sit up. These men were of untainted integrity. They could not have been bought over with any amount of money in this world or political appointments or promises of such. Few years after independence and at

the time when this first generation of Igbo leaders was almost losing steam, Colonel Chukwuemeka Odumegwu was thrown up by circumstances and he took up the task of leading the Igbos at a most difficult time in the history of these long-suffering people. With him were individuals like; Philip Effiong, and many others who did not need to be cajoled into joining the struggle nor was any of them ready to struggle for the prime leadership position, as Ojukwu showed every sense of integrity, passion and dedication to the job. A good leader does not command the people to follow him, the people simply flow with him, without looking back. General Odumegwu Ojukwu, who led the Igbos under the umbrella of the Peoples Republic of Biafra remains a model of what a leader should be. His successes and popularity among the people also shows that the Igbo people are easy to lead, but one of the most difficult people on earth to rule. The only thing the average Igbo needs to follow your lead is to convince him or her that you are sincere and selfless. Even while contending with unbearable malnutrition, unprovoked and barbaric killing of their siblings and relatives, and other realities that

made their future so uncertain, the Igbos, young, old, male and female never deserted their leader, Ojukwu. There were always people ready to volunteer to go to war, even when there were no guns or even bows or arrows, able bodied Igbo men left their families and offered to go to war against the heavily armed Nigerian military with ordinary clubs, sticks and even bare-hands. Now, that is what leadership means. Odumegwu Ojukwu’s personal sacrifices in trying to defend the Igbo nation was not in doubt. He liquidated his family’s personal wealth in prosecuting the war against the murderous Nigerian Army under General Yakubu Gowon. The people of Biafra knew that Ojukwu had many options available to him, but he chose the hard option; fighting for his people. Ojukwu could have chosen to keep quiet over the unprovoked massacres of his people by the Hausa in the North, after all, he was already a military Governor of the entire Eastern region, comprising about nine States of the Federation. Colonel Ojukwu could have simply taken a flight to Lagos, Dodan Barracks then and bowed before General Yakubu Gowon and possibly got promoted to a higher positon

in the Supreme Military Council, but he chose instead to stick out his neck for another Igbo officer whose whereabout was unknown. Had Ojukwu decided to pursue his personal goals, he might have ruled Nigeria as either a Military Head of State or a civilian President. His insistence on justice for his people on one hand and fairness for his fellow Southern Comrades in the Army, is the only reason why the Nigerian government declared war on him and his people. he did not run away. With less than 10,000 ragtag soldiers with little ammunition available, General Ojukwu held his own against more than 120,000 strong Nigeria Army who got their arms supplies from across Europe and America for thirty solid months, and I daresay, it was a success for the Igbo nation. Fast forward to 2016, and some Fulani herdsmen invade a community in Enugu State, killing, raping and maiming innocent and vulnerable civilians, leaving in their trail more than 200 corpses and hundreds of injured Igbos, razed down houses and looted properties of Igbo men and women in their own homes. •Onwuasoanya wrote in from Owerri

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Still waiting for our girls

wo years ago, the rustic innocence of Government Girls’ Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State was shattered by rampaging Boko Haram terrorists, who had one deadly mission: to kidnap as many students as possible. Heavily armed terrorists, riding on motorcycles and trucks, burst into the school in the dead of the night and kidnapped hundreds of students. The heartless invaders also proceeded to burn down the school before leaving with the children who were roused from sleep. The invaders took advantage of the fact that the pupils were in the middle of West African School Certificate examinations and that the school was filled with pupils. Curiously, there was no security presence around the school to counter the offensive, resulting in one of Nigeria’s most embarrassing incidents. Though news of the kidnap broke on social media within a few hours, the political and security authorities of the country failed to act decisively. Despite assurances by the military high command that they were on the trail of the kidnappers and would rescue the girls. high hopes about the rescue began to dim when President Goodluck Jonathan failed to act decisively, despite credible evidence that some of the girls escaped. Eventually, no fewer than 216 girls were identified as having been kidnapped.

The incident sparked off a global campaign championed by world figures such as the United States first lady, Michelle Obama. A hashtag #bringbackourgirls also circulated globally while a movement soon developed around the issue. That was how the Bring Back Our Girls movement was born. The movement championed by civil rights activist, Hadiza Usman, and former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has since held protest marches and sitouts in Lagos and Abuja to sustain global attention on the issue. Their at-

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had in a video displayed some of the girls at an undisclosed location and threatened to sell them off. Also, there have been reported attempts by government to negotiate with elements within the group for the girls’ release but these have not yielded fruit. Given the failure of the Jonathan administration to rescue the girls, it was with high hopes that Nigerians welcomed President

Some media reports have also indicated that the girls have been used as sex slaves or suicide bombers

tempts to meet with Jonathan were rebuffed by security agents. Though some ministers and senior Jonathan administration officials addressed them during one of the protest marches, it was to the bewilderment of Nigerians that statements from some of them virtually dismissed the incident as non-existent. The parents of the girls have not been left out of the campaigns for their release, calling out regularly for global attention to the unresolved issue. Boko Haram at different times used the girls as pawns in their pretentious attempts to negotiate their release. Infact, the former leader of the sect, Abubakar Shekau,

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Muhammadu Buhari’s inauguration day to ensure the quick release of the girls. Though he met with parents of then girls and BBOG, his inability to

return the 216 children is a major blot on his administration’s first year record. Recently, a teenage girl captured by Cameroonian forces claimed she was one of the Chibok girls. She was eventually discovered to have been kidnapped from Bama, another town in Borno State. Since the girls were shown in Shekau’s video, there have been reported sightings of the hostages in different places, including Sambisa forest and Southern Libya. Some media reports have also indicated that the girls have been used as sex slaves or suicide bombers. An international coalition

that was raised by the US and Britain reported sighting the girls in 2014 but failed to act because there was no request from Abuja. There are a number of lessons to learn from the saga. The key one is the poor attitude of Nigerian leaders to the safety and security of citizens. The tokenism with which ex-President Jonathan treated the matter gave his administration out as uncaring and unmoved by the incident. It was made worse by the fact that teenage girls were involved. Nigeria failed these innocents in their hour of need. Reports suggested that many of the girls would have been rescued if there was a determined pursuit of the terrorists. Second, that ex-President Jonathan chose to fly from Abuja to Kano for a campaign rally hours after the incident demonstrated a gross disdain for citizens of his own country. Third, the many attempts by Nigerian government officials and political sympathisers to water down the incident apparently emboldened the terrorists to continue to kidnap more people from other communities. It is noteworthy that the issue has not disappeared from global consciousness. The countdown has remained consistent. It is hoped that someday, the clock will tick to the hour when the Chibok girls finally return to their families and the sad episode is brought to a closure.

POLITICS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Lagos’ll conduct credible LG poll – Idris support of what the government is doing. So, we are not worried because we know that LASIEC and the state government are working for a credible poll. All we need do is to support them to succeed. Without our support, the success of the poll will be relative, and that is why it is incumbent on everyone across party boundaries to support LASIEC in giving us a commendable exercise. The government is a responsive government and is aware of the feeling of the people, but they are making sure that the election is credible that is why the House is working on it. We have been telling our supporters that it is better to have a credible election than to have an election, which its aftermath will be subject to litigation. Among us, mobilisation and sensitization are taking place.

Mr. Segun Idris, who seeks to govern Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in this interview with TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE, believes that the delay in conducting local government election in Lagos State, is in the interest of Lagosians How do you feel that the local government election is taking this long to hold in spite of public expectation? As a chairmanship aspirant in Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, I have been on ground to make sure that the needed information regarding the election gets to the people. We are all aware that the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) is making a lot effort to create awareness and give all parties a level playing field which is critical to the successful conduct of the exercise. Because of the nature of politics in Nigeria, you find so many people reading interpretations to most political exercises like we currently have in Lagos as regards the local government election. But the truth is that in order to give Lagosians a free and fair exercise, the state government, I believe, is taking its time to put every necessary ingredient of a successful election in place. As an aspirant, it feels good that the state government is working to make sure that everyone is carried along. I will tell say authorita-

Idris

tively that the House of Assembly in its supervisory capacity is doing its best to make sure that the election is successful. So, people should relax and expect the best from the government. Already, they are working on the LASIEC law to make sure that the agency is supported to supervise a credible electoral process. The governor is committed. That he has done by sending the names of LASIEC commissioners. Are you saying that members of your party are not agitated over the delay? Even though we are expecting the election to hold any time, we will appreciate an election that is held when all necessary things are put in place. That is what I have been telling my supporters at the grassroots and they are fully in

It is better to have a credible election than to have an election, which its aftermath will be subject to litigation

A section of the public has called on LASIEC to create more wards ahead of the election, do you think the call is really necessary at this time and do you think the state needs more wards? The state does not need more wards alone, it needs more local governments. It is a fact that the population of Lagos is growing every day and it is important that government comes closer to this ever growing population. How can that be achieved? It is only by creating more wards, more local governments, so that the people can feel the impact of governance. The primary essence of local government is for government to be closer to the people. If local government is far from the grassroots, whatever the state of federal government is doing, will not connect properly with the people. If more wards are created, more developmental project will go to that area because the councilors will agitate for the development of those areas. The truth is that we need to expand. I believe that if the govern-

ment can look at it from that angle, it will be better for the process. But the agitators should not be unmindful of the economic situation of the country, because creating more wards means having extra financial responsibilities. Nevertheless, we have to consider the financial situation of the government but if the government feels it is buoyant enough to do so, that will be good for the process. So, increase in population demands increase in the number of local governments. That is why we are also clamouring for a special status for Lagos State, to be able to govern its growing population better. Considering the prevailing economic challenges in the country, which has negatively impacted on service delivery, do you have plans of making Amuwo Odofin self-sufficient in order to reduce dependence on federal allocations? There are so many ways that the local government can be selfsufficient apart from collecting rates and that is captured in my blue print for Amuwo Odofin. The local government hosts so many people of ideas who have contributed in making it distinct in Lagos. So, I capitalised on the strategic nature of the local government when preparing my blue print, which will make Amuwo Odofin a reference point in Lagos and Nigeria. We also have one of the largest markets in Africa which is the Trade Fair Complex and we have plans to make it to contribute to what comes into the local government. We have arable land in the local government which can be used for commercial farming. Having carried out a proper study of the possible areas of developing the council, I came up with a feasible blue print which I hope to implement when elected. And it is my hope that my dreams for Amuwo Odofin will come true.

Ohakim: I left N28bn for Okorocha C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 5

seven local government areas and the Outer-Outer would link 19 out of the 27 local government areas in the state. We started the Outer-Outer, the Inner Ring Road and the Outer Ring Road with the flyovers and part of the fund was to come from the money we got from the Stock Exchange, which was cheap money. We never went to the commercial banks to borrow, except when we required bridging financing, a smaller amount which we paid, because as a governor, you have only three dry seasons to do your constructions. So, you can as well take bridging fund and begin to work and pay back as you get your allocation. That was exactly what we did. We never abandoned any project. We continued the projects of others, and all the key projects, which we started were not projects meant for the mob or for people to clap for us. They were projects meant to support our economy. When we came in 2007, hotels in Imo had about 2,000 rooms but by the time we left in 2011, we had about 10,000 hotel rooms with about 90 per cent occupancy. And you know what that means to our economy. By 6.am, our women sweep-

ers had completed sweeping Imo State and return home to take their children to school. There was law and order. People respected everybody and money was circulating. We made sure that 90 per cent of the contracts we did in Imo were given to local contractors. When we were working in rural areas, we made sure that contractors and suppliers came from that area. Despite all these projects, yet you handed over N28 billion to your successor? More than N28 billion! What was the debt profile of the state when you left? I don’t know what you mean by debt profile. When I handed over that money, what was outstanding in the debt profile of Imo State was not more than N3 billion, which was a kind of bridging facility. I didn’t borrow money from any commercial bank other than bridging financing, which we paid off. And again, what may surprise you is that out of the N18 billion we got from the capital market, we had already refunded about N7 billion. Was the N7 billion out of the N18bn… Yes! Out of the N18 billion, we had

already paid off N7 billion. It was as good as that, and the records are there at the Stock Exchange. It is not a hidden thing. It is there at the bank. You see, everything we do we must be evidential because government is supposed to be a deity, and anything that comes out of the mouth of a governor must be the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

I decided to worship at the Adoration Ministry in Enugu. And remember that it was Rev. Father Mbaka, who popularised a song that I flogged a reverend father. Today, I call Father Mbaka a leader, a true man of God because in the whole world, it is difficult, if not impossible, to see any leader say ‘I made a mistake. I was deceived.’

Many believe that one of the issues that cost you a second term was the accusation that you flogged a reverend father at the Government House. I am not sure you denied that. I denied it. We did everything humanly possible to say that it was a capital lie.

Did Father Mbaka say to you that that information was wrong? Yes! He said it and it was publicised. It is everywhere. I worshipped at the church. I worshipped there for my birthday’s thanksgiving, and he told the church that he has realised after investigation, after speaking one on one with the reverend father, who told him that he didn’t see Ohakim, that if he sees Ohakim, he wouldn’t know whether he is tall or short. That he won’t even recognise me, that he sees me only on television or newspapers.

Did you flog the reverend father in question or any other reverend father during your tenure? Ok, let me answer you directly. I did not. I never, I would have never. I couldn’t have. It was practically impossible for me to, looking at my upbringing as a child. And I call people’s attention to Exodus 20:16, that no one should level false accusation on his fellow human being. But let me draw your attention to what happened in one Sunday in August 2014. As I was celebrating my birthday,

Do you have any documented evidence of this? It is on tape. It is also on Youtube now. I think some radio and television stations also reported it and most of the newspapers published it. So, I have been vindicated.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

The Mega City

Life in the city Berger pedestrian bridge, almost a reality

THE PEOPLE’S VOICE Mile12 Relocation: Have your say

...EXCLUSIVE LAGOS MAGAZINE

21 23

Land grabbers at a building site in Lagos

Battling the ‘land owners’ It’s no news that acquiring a landed property in Lagos State is a herculean task. The experience of buying a land to develop in the Mega City is generally described by most people, especially victims as nightmarish, VICTOR UDDO reports

OLUWATOSIN OMONIYI CITY Editor

tosin.omoniyi@newtelegraphonline.com

arrating to New Telegraph his ordeal in the hands of land grabbers, popularly called Omo o’nile in what he described in a manner similar to acts of gangsterism, Uche Okeke, said: “My first day of taking workers to my site, a parcel of land at Iba area in Ojo Local Government Area to start work was horrible. Not more than five minutes that the workers settled down to dig the foundation, suddenly and in a commando film style, about 12 young men wielding cutlasses, sticks, broken bottles and a double-barrel gun invaded the site and beat the workers to stupor.” He said that several attempts to pacify them, appealing that he was the rightful owner of the land yielded no positive response. Rather, they got more infuriated, and he got beaten. “In less than 10 minutes, they had moved us out of the site and were gone with the workmen’s tools.” What happened, according to Okeke was that the piece of land in question, he bought was resold to another person by another

Does it mean government is in the know of land duping?

family. And he didn’t know, nor was his money refunded to him. Rather, Okeke said he was promised of another land. “They promised to re -allocate another land to me after the two families involved met. More than years counting, I have not gotten the land and my money was not returned,” he said. Another victim, a younger brother to a chairman of a one of the big political parties, who pleaded anonymity told New Telegraph that “it took 12 years for me to get back my land and that was because providence smiled on me as my elder brother became a chairman of a political party. He had to call his colleague in Lagos State and that was it. The families playing games with me over the land had to give up and allowed me to start my building but that was not without paying other illegal dues which I think the state government should critically look into.” Wondering why the Lagos State government has not taken drastic action to address this burgeoning land matter by ‘land grabbers and ‘Omo o’niles’ in

the state, a member of one of the big Pentecostal churches in Nigeria narrated his harrowing experience with ‘Omo o’niles.’ According to him, “we have gone through various peaceful ways to resolve the issue of a parcel of land somewhere in Samuel Ekunola Street in Ago area, which the church bought from Okota family but taken over by Itire family after a court judgment in favour of Itire family in a case between the two families.” “Our church had already paid to Okota family and now that Itire served us with a court judgment, we had to settle the Itire family in order for us to commence our building work but we were taken aback when Okota came again demanding all manners of fees. However, we did not mind but settled with them and paid a certain agreed sum of money.” He concluded that Omo o’niles’ matter in the state is becoming an evil trend. “However, we are praying and as well using this opportunity to call on the state government CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

LIFE \ MEGA CITY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

The healing well

This well may have been dug centuries ago, but it still holds its potency beyond the domestic chores that it was purposely built for. FLORA ONWUDIWE reports

ug in 1842 by the British missionaries somewhere in Badagry, area of Lagos is the first Nigeria well. Today, the well does not only serve for drinking or other domestic chores, but serves as a spiritual healing water that attracts visitors from all parts of Lagos to Badagry. The well, according to Mr. Ezekiel Viavonu, curator and caretaker of the building, heals the sick and saves those condemned to die. “They call the well, water of life because of its spiritual powers. If they have any sickness, when they use the water with faith, they get healed,” He said. He added that the people all over Badagry love to take the water. As such, they come to the missionary house to fetch from the well water. Corroborating Viavonu were few residents of the well water environment. They disclosed that the well water refreshes and cleans itself even without anyone having to treat it. It is said to be odourless and tastes good in the mouths among all the well water in Badagry. “What we discovered about the well is that the water is fresh and good for drinking, even when it is not treated. Yet it is fresh, odourless unlike most of

Mystery of Badagry’s ‘healing well’ the well water we have in Badagry that have colours and changes colour three times yearly especially each time the ocean changes to green. It changes along with the wells in Badagry.” Viavonu further stated that, the mystery behind the mystical well water is yet unknown but the potency and efficacy have been proven beyond doubt. He reasoned that the missionaries may have discovered that Badagry was suffering from lack of portable water and prayed into the well for them. “Believe me, if it is prayers of the missionaries, then I make bold to say it worked. In fact, people gave testimonies of how they got healed after taking the water by faith,” he said. The curator, who is a native of Badagry had worked at the Slave Museum for the Mobbee family for six years as a store guard. He also worked under the diocese of the Anglican Communion Church in Badary but came to work as the curator of the first storey building September, 15, 2012. Meaning that he is vast with the knowledge of the well and environment He narrated that the efficacy of the well was discovered during a church programme when some church members pointed out the well and prophesied into it. “People will ask for anything

they need from God and He will do it through this water; pregnant mothers would take the water and deliver safely; the blind shall see, the lame shall walk e.t.c.,” he quoted them saying. The curator, however, described the depth of the well as about 250 metres away from the Ocean. He said it does not

When they use the water with faith, they get healed

get dry and it has not been re-dug since 1842 just as other well waters in the dry season get dried up and is re-dug. It paved way for more water to fill up the well. He said that they have never experienced it getting dried up for once. “We discovered that it never gets dry since 1842. The government did tap water for people in Badagry, but it does not function. So most people depend on the well water from the missionary house.” He described the water as naturally clean. The well is positioned under a fruit tree and when opened , “you will see dried leaf fall inside the water. People filter it before drinking the water but I drink the water like that. The water is clean. You don’t need to treat it before drinking,” he said.

LIFE \ In the city

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ifeoluwa Idowu

he long anticipated wait for a pedestrian bridge on the Berger Bridge of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway has finally started to ease as the construction of the bridge is already in top gear. Started in March, the bridge has rapidly become visible for all to see, amongst the construction equipment and workers. The construction company’s (CCECC) banner was seen displayed on the bridge as the company carrying out the work. The lanes on the expressway which is usually four has thinned down to two due to the construction as equipment such as tractors, cranes and etc. have taken up a major part of the road. There are several warning signs indicating the travel speed limits and conveying the information that construction was ongoing. A supervisor with the construction company, who simply identified as Mr. Gideon, said that the work was going very fast. “I can assure you that the work is going very fast. The initial plan was that the project would run from March to May 27, which is two months in total. But as it is, another two months has been added to the plan.” Mr. Moses Eze, who owns a shop at computer village and resides at Kara, expressed joy at the development. “I have to cross this Berger expressway daily and it is not easy. I have seen people die here several times on this vast expressway while trying to cross. Crossing this road is a nightmare, only God has been protecting us. I am very happy and I hope this project would be completed On-going construction on time and not abandoned like several other projects.” Due to the construction of the bridge, the Berger bus park had to be reorganized, affecting traders, transporters and passengers alike. Most of the people who trade by the road side atop the Berger bridge were sent away from their positions, while bus drivers were rearranged in such a way that the park can no longer contain the buses that queue for ers, but that is mostly because of turns. the economic situation of the naMr. Kayode Okunola, a bus tion. The Lagos State government driver, who works at the Berger came to tell us about the construcgarage, said that the conditions tion before it started and we were are not convenient but he had told it would be commissioned by no choice. “It is affecting us but May 29. Most of the people that there is nothing we can do. We used to trade on the side of the now park our vehicles at New expressway had to start hawking. Garage, where we pay for park- Some of them moved down. The ing space or at Kara, and when bridge had been long overdue. We it is close to our turn, we go to have been hoping for it for long. wherever we parked and bring You would be shocked at the rate our vehicles. We have lost some at which accidents occur on this customers because some people express road. The painful thing think we are lying when we say however is that people like to act there are available buses so they like goats. You would still find out leave angrily. Usually, there is that even after the construction of build up of traffic on the ex- the bridge, some people would still pressway. So, before we could cross the express.” rush to bring in the vehicle, Mrs. Bola Adio, a trader at the there would have been plenty park told New Telegraph that she customers on ground already,” had to move her stall forward from he said. her original position as a result of Another transporter, Mr. Elia- the changes caused by the construcsu Oshikoya, told New Telegraph tion of the bridge. “My stall used to that the Lagos State Government be further behind but I had to move previously informed the trans- to my present location because they porters about the construction sent the buses away. I cannot comof the bridge and its duration. plain because the government has “As transporters, we had to all the power. My business has been create alternate parking space affected but not too much. It is not for ourselves. We park in sever- just the bridge but the economy al places around and we pay for that is causing the slow sales,” she parking. We lost a few custom- said.

Berger pedestrian bridge, almost a reality The bridge had been long overdue. We have been hoping for it for long

Construction workers taking a break

LIFE \ MEGA CITY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

CO NTINUED FROM PAG E 1 9

to do something in order to stop these evil extortions by the ‘Omo o’niles.” Alhaji Tajudeen Edidi, who is an indigene of Lagos State, spoke to New Telegraph on the menace of land grabbers and “Omo o’niles” or land owners in Lagos. He said that the issue of land grabbing is one dimension of problem with land owners across the nation, not only in Lagos. According to him, the worrisome part of it, is that after one would have bought a piece of land from the land owners, with paid stamp duties, tax, etc on the supposed procured land to the government and have gotten approved plan and other necessary documents from the government agencies; from there, proceed to the site to lay the foundation of the proposed plan, some people in the name of omo o’niles will suddenly appear from nowhere in military force to claim payment for foundation because it is their birth right. He explained further that the price for foundation laying varies. It depends of the size of the land and the calibre of the person involved. For instance, in Ago and Isolo, he said that a minimum of N500, 000.00 is paid for as foundation fee. And for a German floor’, it is another N500, 000.00. “That is not all. After paying for the DPC and when you want to roof the house, you’ll have to pay again and when you are putting another floor meaning each floor you put, you have to pay so much money that you are not pleased to pay and when you refuse or resist them, they are ready to take either your life or that of your worker. And in most cases, when you go to the Police station to report, the police will ask you to go and settle with them,” he said. Edidi further explained that even after purchasing a land and paying the requisite money, process and obtain the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) some miscreants will still show up claiming land ownership. Another issue he pointed is that the fact that one purchases a land from the Lagos State government and get all the required documents, Omo o’niles will still come forth to collect payment for the same land, vice versa. “For instance, in Ago Palace, you bought a parcel of land from Omo o‘niles, Lagos State Development Property Cooperation will come and place their signboard that you have to re-buy the land from them, otherwise, you forfeit the land; at the end of the day, you have to pay the prescribed fees, tax, etc also pay some other forms of fees to the Omo o‘niles. Why should this continue? Does it mean government is in the know of land duping?” Another example of the exploitation Alhaji Edidi pointed out, is when someone buys a piece of land and unable to develop immediately or within one year. Then, someone will encroach on it by reselling it to another buyer, who builds on it instantly. “ For instance, my son bought a land sometime ago and we were processing the paper six months later. The land was resold to somebody else about four times the amount my son bought it. What a lifestyle?” He asked “It’s high time the state government did something about it and sensitize the ‘Omo o’niles’ and

A land slide

Battling the ‘omo oniles’ let them know where the limit of their rights ends, so that they will stop terrorising the people,” he pleaded. Speaking with a member of the Okota royal family house in Isolo, a middle aged man, who pleaded anonymity, said land matters usually ended up in disputes and at times, violence between owners and buyers. According to him, there are too many interests involved in a particular piece of land. “That is the reason when we sell a piece of land to anybody, we make sure we properly direct you on how and what to do in terms of paying the necessary charges without delay so that nobody will disturb you.” When he was probed further on why they the “Omo o‘niles” in Isolo part of Lagos State, sell and resell a piece of land to more than one person, he said “I am not aware of this development. However, there have been some cases I know of that Itire family resold our lands in Ago area, when we tried to resolve the matter, they showed us a court judgment over the land which they obtained against us.” On whether those who sold the land were not aware the land was in dispute and in court between Itire and Isolo/Okota families before going ahead to sell the land, he said: “This question should be directed to the head of the family, ‘Oloriegbe’.” Attempt by New Telegraph to see the King, (Kabiyesi) proved abortive as the king’s staff were not friendly and not disposed to the request to seeing the King. Olafemi Omotesho, a legal practitioner on land ownership pattern in Nigeria, explained in

details that by virtue of the Land Use Act of 1978, the Nigerian constitution confers ownership of all lands in the country to the government, which means all state governments own lands in their respective domains. That is why government after certifying the processes of documentation of the land in question, issues Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) as a receipt and a proof for ownership of the parcel of land for the duration of 99 years.” New Telegraph visited the office of the Citizens for Righteousness and Social Justice (CRJ) a Non-Governmental Organisation that has been handling issues on land grabbers and ‘Omo o’niles’ terrorising the people at Ire-Akari in Isolo. They confirmed some cases which they have handled. According to the field officer, who pleaded anonymity, who showed New Telegraph copies of letters written on these matters to the Executive Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, the Commissioner of Police of Lagos State and the Speaker of the state House of Assembly titled “Stop these criminal activities, please.” When New Telegraph visited the Lagos state Police Commissioner’s office at Oduduwa to confirm the claim of CRJ field officer that the police officers in the Commissioner‘s office at Oduduwa, Ikeja refused to receive and acknowledge one of the letters written in respect of a case of forcefully entry into a land by Omo o’niles, on enquiry, the officer said “the police does not attend to such case as it is a civil case.”

Land officials inspecting a piece of land

Caveat emptor on a building

LIFE \ In the city

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Lagosians speak on Mile12 market relocation The impending relocation of the Mile 12 market to Imota, a suburban area of Ikorodu, Lagos has drawn complaints from buyers, transporters and sellers alike. All have varying reasons. OLUWATOSIN ADEPOJU and ABIODUN OLOKODE report

It won’t be like that of Mile 12 We are not pleased with the relocation of Mile 12 to Imota because the place is quite a distance. It is very close to Ogun State and if they take us there, the market would be divided into two. This is because the Hausa people insist that they are not going to Imota; they prefer Ogere to Imota. Governor Ibikunle Amosun has given them a half acre of land and they have started developing the place. The Hausa people have started selling there and they are ready to choose Ogere over Imota. I can bet it that about 50 per cent of traders here in Mile 12 are not going to Imota because there is no road for trailers to pass through. The road is very bad and it is even on the outskirts of the city. If Mile 12 is relocated, there will be no Local Government again because our Local Government is located here; even banks that are located around Mile 12 will not continue to exist because Mile 12 is the source of money for the banks sited around here. Wherever the Hausa people are situated, that location is where our business will continue to grow. So, if the Hausa people decide to relocate to Ogere, we are all going there with them. Our government will just waste their resources by developing Imota because we are not going to go there. If the government finally relocates Mile 12 to Imota, business will not be like that of Mile 12 because we are all going to become strangers at Imota. Our sales will not be high like that of this place. Mile 12 market will be divided into three because this market was relocated from Ido to this current location, about 30 years ago. This current location was filled with swamp and it was not developed at all. Government initially relocated us from Ido to this current location to develop this place because it was in the plan that if this place becomes developed, they will also relocate us to another place, but the place was not stated.

Mrs. Qudri Arike – Food Seller

Customers won’t follow us We are not pleased with the relocation of Mile 12 to Imota. But if our government insists, we have no other option. The relocation of Mile 12 will affect our businesses because our customers will not follow us and it will even destroy the whole of our business. It will take nothing less than five years for our sales to become stable if Mile 12 is finally relocated to Imota. The government should help us improve the security around here, which would help us to prevent every form of conflicts because I believe that the relocation of Mile 12 is not the solution to the current problems we are facing.

Mr. Abiodun Afolabi – Butcher

Imota’ll be difficult, costly The relocation of Mile 12 to Imota will affect us. I sell food and I come here from Akute to purchase goods for my business. There are other markets where I can purchase my goods, but I am used to this market system. It is still easy for me as a customer to come here from Akute but going to Imota will be very difficult and costly.

Mrs. Yetunde Ashiru – Customer

‘It’ll take time to adapt’

‘Announcement already affecting sales’ I feel bad concerning the relocation of Mile 12 to Imota because it came suddenly and I am not prepared at all. The relocation will affect us so much because here we, shop owners have our allocation documents to pay our monthly dues which are very cheap and affordable for us. However, shop acquisition at Imota might be very expensive and unaffordable for us. The relocation of Mile 12 to Imota will cost us a lot of things such as customers and sales. Already, our sales have become very poor since the announcement of the relocation. We are all going to find shops at Ogere, where the Hausa people have decided to relocate to because the sales of their goods such as tomato, yam, onion, etc. attracts customers even for us the Igbo people that sell provisions. Or we find shops elsewhere to continue our business because I believe that the acquisition of shops at Imota will be very expensive. As a businessman, I pray to God, to touch the heart of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode not to continue with his plan of relocating Mile 12 to Imota.

Mr. Chigozie Okafor – Businessman

It’ll destabilise our customers I am not prepared for the relocation of Mile 12 because it caught us unawares. Mile 12 has grown to become a major market in the whole of Lagos State. The relocation of Mile 12 to Imota will destabilize us and even our customers. It will give us the burden of acquiring a new shop because the acquisition of shops at Imota, the new location will not be based on the current allocation system we have on the ground here. I have decided that I will not be relocating to Imota as planned by the government because the relocation will destabilize the whole of my business. Rather, government should extend the road in order to stop and control the traffic and the extension will also provide adequate car park for our customers to come in.

Mr. Victor Chukwu – Businessman

I’ll change my business Our forefathers told us that this land was given to us by Gen. Muritala Muhammed long time ago and ever since then, we have been here. As for me, I am not pleased with the relocation of Mile 12 to Imota because I don’t know anywhere in Imota and I am going to lose all my customers because they are not going to follow me to the new location. I have been coming from Arewa to Mile 12 since 2001 and ever since then, I have done various kinds of businesses. So, if they relocate Mile 12 from its current location to Imota, I would find another business to do.

Idris Yawualiyu – Businessman

Mile 12 should be renovated There is no way we can cope with perishable nature of the goods sold in this market if Mile 12 is relocated to Imota. The government has a hidden agenda for the relocation of Mile 12 apart from reason of the violence. Mile 12 should not be relocated, but renovated. Governor Akinwunmi Ambode cannot just decide to relocate Mile 12 without contacting us because we are not animals. Imota area is not developed and it is located in the bush in the outskirt of the Lagos State. Even the road to Imota is too narrow to convey trailers that bring in tomatoes and some other goods. There is no household in Lagos State that does not come to Mile 12 to purchase food stuff.”

Mr. Oyekale Jelili – Transporter

I’ll get new customers

The relocation of Mile 12 to Imota will affect us a lot because we have been here for long. We have established our businesses here by ourselves. I believe that there is nothing that we see here that we cannot get over there, but the problem is that it will take time for us to adapt with the new environment because it is when we get there that we are going to think of a business strategy to implement for proper running of our businesses. Still, we don’t want the government to relocate this market. We pray to God to help us silence all these violence issues.

The relocation of Mile 12 to Imota will affect us because our sales will reduce. But as for me, I will like to move to a new place to face new challenges. I will just have to get accommodation closer to the place and try to mobilize new customers to patronize me.

Sulaimon Omomeji – Vice Chairman of Ifesowopo Yam Seller Association

Ifeanyi Chibwuike – Businessman

LIFE \ MEGA CITY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

A new hypermarket for Ilupeju Temitope Ogunbanke

Excited shoppers at SPAR hypermarket

more than 70 per cent of the foods they packed are locally produced. “Scarcity of foreign exchange affects our business but not as gravely as one will expect because the bulk of the products are of Nigeria. Over 70 per cent of the foods we packed are locally produced. The area we feel the impact most is in the electronics department because it is virtually dependent on import,” he said. Some of the dignitaries that graced the unveiling of the

Scarcity of foreign exchange affects us, but not gravely

SPAR hypermarket in Ilupeju were; Onipeju of Ilupeju, High Chief Korede, Bisade Phillips; former chairman of Mushin Local Government Area, Prince Bayo Oshiyemi; Are Kakanfo of Owuland, Abeokuta, Prince Bolu Akin-Olugbade, among others. Some of the residents of Ilupeju and its environs who witnessed the opening of the SPAR hypermarket were happy about the new retail stores, which they believe will give them the opportunity to enjoy what people in other parts of Lagos State are

enjoying. According to the company spokesman, a large number of new stores are in the pipeline. “They are in various stages of progress, right from the drawing board to brick and mortar. Very soon, places like Calabar, Enugu, Asaba, and many more cities across Nigeria will start experiencing world class shopping. Apart from new geographies, SPAR will also strengthen its presence in the existing cities of Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja,” he noted.

QUOTE

OF THE WEEK

As a government, we appreciate workers and make bold to declare that they are makers of history. Every day we say Lagos is working but I am here to tell you that the Lagos is working because the workers are doing the right things at the right time,” Lagos State Governor, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode during May Day Rally

IN NUMBERS

19, 373 UNILAG students signed undertaking after a three break occasioned by the students’ protest

MA Y

n its quest to provide a chain of retail stores for people of Lagos Mainland and its environs, SPAR, the acclaimed largest retail chain in the world, has unveiled its newest hypermarket in Ilupeju, Mushin Local Government Area of Lagos State. Speaking at the unveiling of the hypermarket by SPAR Nigeria, the company’s spokesperson, John Goldsmith, said the hypermarket store in Ilupeju is the new store format which was designed to cater to the various shopping needs of the people living on the mainland areas of Lagos. “Lagosians on various economic cadres and from various works of life can now experience the goodness of fresh products, food and groceries, fantastic meals, household goods and appliances, fashion and beauty items and lots more at the most competitive prices.” According to him, product assortments of over 12,000 items were hand-picked by SPAR to meet the various needs of all consumers with its highly competitive prices. “SPAR as a hypermarket brand, takes cognizance of the various kind of shopping missions and adapts its products and services in respect of choice, quality, service and value to translate the entire shopping experience into a world class one, SPAR intends to take this format for all the upcoming stores across Nigeria. The Chief Executive Officer of SPAR International, Tobias Wasmuht, said the company decided to provide a chain of retail stores for people in Nigeria because of its status as one of the largest economy in Africa. Wasmuht also noted that the scarcity of foreign exchange has not affected SPAR like other companies because

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

FCT

Business What's new Consumer goods stocks down by N473bn

CBN’s anchor borrower fast-tracks diversification

Money To weather storm, banks focus on retail banking

27 28

Rates Dashboard INFLATION RATE March 2016...............................12.8% February 2016............................11.4% January 2016..............................9.6%

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

EXCHANGE RATE

(BDC as at April 22)

(Interbank as at April 22)

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

l Foreign Reserves – $27.123bn as at 28/4/2016

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

Source: CBN

p.26

Expert faults FG’s policies on domestic carriers p.26

L-R: Executive Director, Corporate Services, Bank of Industry (BOI), Mr. Jonathan Tobin; Executive Director, Financial Inclusion, Mrs. Toyin Adeniji; Minister of Industry Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelemah and Acting MD/CEO, BOI, Mr. Waheed Olagunju, during the inauguration of the screening committee of BOI on Youth Entrepreneurship Support (YES) Programme, in Lagos.

Nigeria imports N229bn pharma products from China, others MARKET The Business Desk Ayodele Aminu

Deputy Editor (Business)

One hundred and twenty-eight registered drug manufacturers and 1,534 retail pharmacies in operation in the country

Bayo Akomolafe

Asst. Editor (Maritime)

Sunday Ojeme

Asst. Editor (Insurance)

Tony Chukwunyem

Asst. Editor (Money Market)

Dayo Ayeyemi Property Editor

Adeola Yusuf Energy Editor

Wole Shadare Aviation Editor

Chris Ugwu

Capital Market Editor

Abdulwahab Isa Finance Editor

Taiwo Hassan

Industry, Agric & Brands Editor

Kunle Azeez

Senior Correspondent

Chuks Onuanyin Energy

Nnamdi Amadi Reporter

Johnson Adebayo

Asst Production Editor

Bayo Akomolafe

igeria imported some pharmaceutical products worth N229 billion ($1.144 billion) in the last three years from China, India, France, United Kingdom and some other countries, New Telegraph’s investigations have revealed. Data from the International Trade Statistics (ITS) revealed that the country imported pharma products from India in 2015 worth $610 million; 2014 -$161,706,000 and $139,229,000 in 2013. Also, in 2014 the country took delivery of some pharmaceutical products valued at $109.105,000 from China. Between 2013 and 2014, it imported $63,996,000 and $45,109,000 from China. In the last two years, the data revealed that the country imported pharma products valued at $$64.7

million from United Kingdom, $71.1 million from Switzerland and Germany, $21.7 million. Also, it shipped $16.2 million pharmaceutical products from France, $20.6 million from Belgium, $13.6 million from Netherlands, $8.2 million Indonesia, $11.6 million and $6.5 million from Egypt. According to the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), Nigeria has 128 registered drug manufacturers, 1,534 retail pharmacies, 724 drug distributors and 300 drug importers. Besides, Nigeria has a total of 14,607 public and 9,034 private healthcare facilities. Meanwhile, a data by PwC had indicated that Nigeria and other African countries would be the emerging market for pharmaceutical products, as Nigeria has critically low levels of human resources and weak health infrastructure. It forecasts that the country would import some pharmaceuticals worth $660 million in 2016, $720 million in 2017 and $789 million in 2018. Also, a report by a research firm, Business Monitor International (BMI), has revealed in the first quarter of 2016 that low gov-

$789 million Being the value of pharma products PwC forecast Nigeria would import in 2016

ernment’s health spending would dampen import growth for 2016. It explained that in-between June 2014 and June 2015, imports fell by 5.0 per cent to $140.8 million. According to the report, “medical device exports are very low and fell sharply in 2013 and 2014.” For Q1 2016, Nigeria scored 26.0 out of 100 in Pharmaceutical Risk/ Reward Index (RRI). A pharmaceutical imports data by PwC had already revealed in 2013 that Nigeria and other African countries would be the emerging market for pharmaceuticals as Nigeria has critically low levels of human resources and weak health infrastructure for health care. The report also revealed that in June 2014, top medical tourist destinations by Nigerians include India, Europe, the United States and the Persian Gulf, noting that 47per cent of Nigerians who visited India in 2012 spent $260 million on treatment on brain surgery, cosmetic surgery, cancer, renal transplant, eye treatment and open heart surgery. In addition, the company forecast that the country would import some pharmaceuticals worth $660million in 2016, $720 million in 2017 and $789 million in 2018.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS |news

Consumer goods stocks down by N473bn PROLONGED The bearish trend in the stock market is expected to continue in the near term Chris Ugwu

onsumer goods companies listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) recorded a loss of N473 billion between January and April 2016 following sell pressure that had pervaded the equities market. Investigation by New Telegraph showed that the subsector, which opened at the beginning of the year at N2.624 trillion, closed at N2.151 trillion as at the time of filing this report last Monday. This represented a loss of N473 billion or 18 per cent year-to- date. Just as other quoted firms in Nigeria are facing depression in share prices, market sentiments for the shares of most of the consumer goods companies have dwindled relatively due to challenging environment faced by the real sector of the economy. Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivatives Companies (FDC) Limited, Mr. Bismark Rewane, recently said it was likely that the current downturn in the nation’s capital market would be sustained in the near term. Rewane, who stated this in the FDC Economic Bulletin, noted that money market rates are already at an all time low, adding that it is expected to see a creeping up of rates, as the

level of government borrowing increases. “While the increasing inflationary trends will have investors worry about their returns, the major drivers of stock market activities will be macroeconomic uncertainties and likely further increases in US interest rates. Furthermore, expected corporate earnings will be another determinant of stock market performance. The bearish trend in the stock market is expected to continue in the near term,” he said. President, African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA) and Chief Executive Officer, NSE, Mr. Oscar Onyema, has said that the decline

in commodity prices, geopolitical tensions, lower Chinese growth and the relative weakening of local currencies in Africa resulted in slower growth across many economies in 2015. He said this at a capacity building seminar last week at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) in Lagos while speaking on how to address liquidity concerns in African market. The NSE boss said this was mirrored by the performance of benchmark indices of many African exchanges, with almost all closing the year on a negative note. He noted that despite the challenging operating environ-

he continuous signing of Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASA), by the Federal Government with foreign countries among several other unfavourable policies would continue to hamper growth of the airline sub-sector in the country. Also, the lack of sufficiently trained and type-rated technical personnel in the nation’s aviation industry would incessantly give rooms for expatriates to take over the jobs of local people. These were the views of the immediate past President, Aviation Round Table (ART), Capt. Dele Ore, in an interview with New Telegraph in Lagos. Ore declared that bad policy formulations and implementations by government in the past led to the early collapse of airlines operating in the country, stressing that despite this, such bad policies still continued unabated by government. Ore lambasted government over multiple entries for for-

liquidity is the key success factor to this goal. “Sub-regional integration efforts such as WACMI in West Africa, CoSSE in Southern Africa, and EAC in East Africa are important initiatives that have the potential to unlock demand among issuers and boost liquidity. The African Exchanges Linkage Project (AELP), which is a jointly owned mandate between ASEA and the Africa Development Bank (AfDB), is also aimed at addressing the lack of liquidity in African capital markets. Thus, these initiatives are encouraged to fast-track the integration of their regional markets,” Onyema said.

L-R: President/ Chairman of Council, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Dr. Olateju Somorin; Past President, Mr. Foluso Fasoto and Guest of Honour, Prof. Oyemine Ande, at the Institute’s 34th induction ceremony of new members in Lagos. PHOTO: GODWIN IREKHE

Expert faults FG’s policies on domestic carriers Wole Shadare

ment in 2015, many countries in sub-Saharan Africa are expected to see a gradual pickup in growth in 2016. He explained that according to research by Thomson Reuters, African initial public offers (IPOs) are set to raise over $3.1 billion in 2016, doubling the amount raised in 2015 and the highest value raised in any year since 2010. “Technology, Consumer Essentials and Industrial sectors are set to be the busiest among the 15 IPOs in the African pipeline. Now, what does this mean for us? It means that we must position African capital markets as a viable funding source for the anticipated growth and

eign airlines without any reciprocity from their Nigerian counterparts. He insisted that there was nothing wrong with signing of BASAs, but said that the nation must benefit with such arrangements. He was, however, silent on the recent BASA arrangement with the Qatari Government, saying that he was yet to see the details. “Nothing has happened to improve the policies for the airlines. Our policies will soon drown airlines that are operational. We still have multiple entry points for foreign carriers. With that policy, we are killing our domestic carriers. We are indirectly opening up our airspace courtesy of such agreements. “It’s only the ground handling companies that are doing well in the sector while others are crawling. We don’t have enough places to train personnel for the sector and nothing has been done in the past six months of Hadi Sirika as a Minister of State for Aviation to curtail capital flights in the sector,” he said.

Ore also warned that with the high level of expatriates taking over positions of local technical personnel, the next 10 years might be worse for the Nigerian aviation industry. He explained that several pilots trained from different aviation colleges in the country and beyond are roaming the streets without jobs, positing that local airlines are getting dispensation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for expatriate quota, which would negatively affect Nigerian professionals in the future. He decried that as far back as 1984, the former Nigerian Airways had put Nigerians in critical positions, but the reverse was the case now as foreigners had taken over. “If care is not taken, soon, we will have half-baked aircraft commanders in the cockpit. The government should come up with a policy that says at least, we must have a Nigerian in the cockpit even if not as a commander, a Nigerian should act as a co-pilot,” he said.

Remittances: Nigeria, others received $431.6bn in 2015 Tony Chukwunyem

he World Bank has said that it recorded $431.6 billion in remittances to Nigeria and other developing countries in 2015. This represents a marginal increase of 0.4 per cent over $430 billion in 2014. According to the 2016 World Bank migration and remittances factbook, the biggest bulk of money transfers went to India, which attracted $69 billion, followed by China, with $64 billion, the Philippines ($28 billion), Mexico ($25 billion) and Nigeria ($21 billion). The 2016 World Bank migration and remittances factbook, which looks at remittance outflows for 2014, states that overall, the United States remains in the number one spot, sending the biggest amount of remittances at $56.3 billion. Saudi Arabia ranks as the second largest at $36.9 billion, followed by Russia ($32.6 billion), Switzerland ($24.7 billion) and Germany ($20.8 billion).

Rounding up the top ten remittance-sending countries are Kuwait in the seventh place with $18.1 billion, France ($13.8 billion), Luxembourg ($12.7 billion) and United Kingdom ($11.5 billion). The six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries accounted for $98 billion in outward remittance flows in 2014. The World Bank forecasts that remittances would recover this year with the positive economic performance in the United States and the Euro area, and stabilisation of US dollar exchange rates of remittance-source countries. Money transfers are a major source of income for millions of families worldwide particularly those in developing or poor countries. The large scale of money being sent out from the UAE every year doesn’t come as a surprise, given that the country – like most GCC countries - is one of the world’s top immigrant destinations, with expatriates accounting for 88.5 per cent of the population as of 2013.

WEDNESDAY, may 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

fct business watch

Decades after agriculture was relegated to the background, no thanks to crude oil discovery, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) with its anchor borrower programme is reversing this ugly trend, as demonstrated in Kebbi State, the pilot state. ABDULWAHAB ISA reports

CBN’s anchor borrower fast-tracks diversification

efore the discovery of crude oil, Nigeria was 100 per cent agrarian country. Agriculture was the country’s economy mainstay. And because it was the occupation of the majority, enough foods were not only produced to feed the massive population, surpluses were exported for income generation to take care of the government expenditures. But when oil was discovered the tide changed. Agriculture was abandoned for crude oil due to cheap funds derivable from oil. However, unlike agriculture whose produce comes with degree of certainty, the volatility and delicate nature of crude oil trading at the global market, makes economic planning a bit unstable.

Buhari

Journey to re-claim agriculture The slump in crude oil prices for nearly two years with no immediate sign of price re-bound has put the Nigerian government in a tight corner. At all levels of government, funding of critical projects and meeting salary obligations have been pretty difficult. The recent tumbling in prices of crude oil, no doubt, compelled government to initiate economic diversification programme from oil dependent to the non-oil sector by making agriculture and solid minerals the focal points of the economy. The drive by government to adopt diversification of economy as priority policy is further reinforced by the recent disclosure that Nigeria spent about N630 billion annually on importations of foodstuff. This development had compelled some agencies to vigorously put in place policies that will return Nigeria as agrarian nation.

unemployment rate of 9.9 per cent and poverty on increase; economic diversification is no longer optional but a necessity to reposition the economy to attain inclusive growth and global competitiveness. The governor said agriculture and agro-based industries remain the most fundamental to the diversification effort. Emefiele chronicled some of the bank’s financial support and intervention in agriculture sector. He recalled: “The establishment of the Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS) in 2009 accounted significantly for the increased in Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) lending to the agricultural sector. In 2014, the CBN also took proactive measures to diversify the economy by selecting six focal agricultural commodities namely, rice, wheat, cotton, sugar, fish and oil palm for intensive support under its agricultural interventions, the bank has also followed up by complementing the Federal Government’s move to curb food importation with a policy directive in June 2015 by excluding 41 items (including some agricultural based commodities) as ‘’not valid for forex’’ to help conserve foreign reserves among others.”

CBN’s role in promoting/financing agriculture The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is playing a key role in diversification of the economy to agriculture and agro-based industries. The banking watchdog on many occasions, reiterated the potential of agriculture in creating employments and ensuring food sufficiency for the people. The apex bank noted that diversification of the economy via agriculture would increase the foreign exchange base for the nation. The bank re-echoed the message at a recent event in Abuja on Nigerian Agri- finance Conference. The CBN Governor, Godwin Emefile, represented by the CBN Deputy-Governor, Corporate-Services, Adebayo Adekola Adelabu, said: “With an annual food imports bill of over N630 billion (decreased from N1.3 trillion),

Anchors borrowers’ fund As a demonstration by the CBN’s quest to make agric sector reclaim its pride of place as Nigeria’s economic mainstay, it launched Anchor Borrowers’ programme last year. President Muhhamdu Buhari performed the historic event in Kebbi State. The CBN anchor borrower programme was specifically designed to transform the small scale rice and wheat farmers to commercial or large growers. At the launch of the programme President Buhari expressed optimism that the CBN anchor borrowers programme had a potential of creating millions of jobs and lifting thousands of small holder farmers out of poverty. Under the programme, the banking watchdog set aside N40 billion of N220 billion Micro, Small and Medi-

Emefiele

Economic diversification is no longer optional, but a necessity to re-position the economy

um Enterprise Development Fund to be given to farmers at single digit interest rate of maximum nine per cent per annum. President Buhari, at the occasion, told the gathering of farmers and some governors of rice and wheat producing states in Nigeria that the Federal Government would favour the programme because it squarely aligned with the government’s aspiration to achieve food security for Nigeria. He promised that government would provide the much needed enabling environment, policies and incentives for private sector investments to unlock the potentials of Nigeria agriculture. Fourteen states – Kebbi, Sokoto, Niger, Kaduna, Katsina, Jigawa, Kano, Zamfara, Admawa, Plateau, Lagos, Ogun, Cross-Rivers and Ebonyi – came together to push the programme, which the Governor of the CBN, Mr Godwin Emefiele, said would increase in agricultural productivity and farm income. Harvest of goodies Barely a year after the historic flag off of CBN’s anchor borrowers fund by President Buhari, the modest programme has started yielding dividends to beneficiary farmers and the economy . The outcome of a recent assessment tour of farmlands in Kebbi State by CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele and his team, gave a perfect testimony to the gains of anchor borrower fund to farmers. According to CBN data, total loans disbursed to farmers under anchor borrower programme stood at over N4.9 billion. This, was in addition to the over 570,000 direct jobs created. About 70,871 rural farmers now own and operate bank accounts captured under the Bank Verification Number (BVN) biometric project and timely supply of inputs to 73,001 farmers. For Kebbi State, the total number of farmers engaged through the programme in partnership with the state Agriculture Development Programe is 78,581. Of the figure,

70,871 is under state government, Labana 5,000 while Umza is 2,710. Of the N4.9 billion total disbursement, states disbursed N2.9 billion, disbursements under Umza stood at N1,224,289,400, while Labana was N740,500,000. The total number of farmers supplied inputs has risen to 73,001. Of the figure, the state government accounts for 66,765 farmers that received inputs, Labana 3,526 and Umza, 2,710. Speaking at the occasion, an elated CBN governor described the current scarcity of foreign exchange confronting the country as a good riddance for the Nigerian economy because local production of various essential goods are now being given top priority. Emefiele noted that with the commitment of the stakeholders and expected output from Kebbi state alone, it has proven critics of the apex bank’s policy measures wrong. Praising the farmers and the Kebbi state government for their determination and commitment towards the programme, the CBN governor noted that with the level of success attained with the pilot project in Kebbi state in addition to what he saw at Sunti Golden Sugar Estate in Niger state recently, it is now a reality that the country can produce enough to feed itself and even export in no distant future. He reiterated that agriculture being the bedrock of genuine economic growth of any nation, saying that Nigeria cannot be an exception. He said it is irony that Nigeria blessed with large expanse of arable land was committing its huge scarce forex in importing food items at the expense of other competing needs. The governor stated that the success recorded by the rice farmers in Kebbi state has rekindled hope in the ability of Nigeria to be selfsufficient in rice and wheat production. He noted that with the sum of N210,00 granted to each farmer, they are able to cultivate a hectre of rice. In his assessment of the programme, the Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbe, said the level of activities in the rural areas visited by the team showed that, with Kebbi State alone targeting one million tons of rice out of the projected seven million tons required by the entire country, self sufficiency in rice production is very much at sight by the time other 12 states identified as rice producing belts harvest their produce. Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, said that farmers in the state have been adequately mobilised towards the attainment of the one million tons of paddy by providing them with necessary inputs as and when due. Conclusion The intervention by apex bank in the various agriculture value chain, as demonstrated in Kebbi state through anchor borrower programme if extended to other states as the bank already planned, will help in reversing Nigeria to its hitherto admirable path in agriculture.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS |MONEY

n a report released last January, entitled, “The Year Ahead-2016,” analysts at Diamond Bank Plc predicted that competition for retail deposits would intensify across the banking industry in 2016, as competitive frontier shifts to efficiency and margin. As the analysts put it, “Banks will compete aggressively in the retail front in 2016 in a bid to optimise net interest margin with cheaper retail deposits. Product development and marketing campaigns strategies will be more of “customer orientation”, rather than “product orientation”. Emphasis will be placed largely on value-chain marketing and customer experience, particularly for the middle class market segment. “The integration of Bank Verification Number (BVN) with other databases, coupled with the expected asset registry infrastructure should stimulate appetite for retail lending across the banking industry,” they added. Besides, the analysts stated that while the operating environment in 2016 would be defined by weak global growth, which they estimated would be at about 3.6 per cent; depressed crude oil price outlook, predicted to remain around $30pb); flat economic growth outlook (estimated at 4 per cent), further naira depreciation (predicted to be around 15 per cent), they, however, saw strong opportunities in the retail, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), agriculture, solid minerals, hospitality and entertainment sectors. As defined by Wikipedia, “Retail banking also known as Consumer Banking is the provision of services by a bank to individual consumers, rather than to companies, corporations or other banks. Services offered include savings and transactional accounts, mortgages, personal loans, debit cards, and credit cards.” According to industry watchers, Nigerian banks started actively embracing this form of banking shortly after the 2004/2005 bank consolidation programme, which resulted in a rapid expansion of lenders that quickly realised that retail banking will help them to compete more effectively and shore up their deposits at very cheap rates. Indeed, evidence that retail banking could prove to be the game changer in the banking industry especially in this period when the slump in oil prices, slow growth and uncertainty over government’s economic policy have made the business environment quite unfavourable for lenders, could been seen from the fact that most banks that have so far announced their first quarter financial statements for 2016, have attributed the positives in the results to a strong retail banking performance. Access Bank For instance, commenting on Access Bank’s 2016 first quarter results, the bank’s Group Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Herbert Wigwe, said, “I am pleased with the Group’s solid first quarter performance characterised by improved margins and strong profit growth despite prevalent macro headwinds

To weather storm, banks focus on retail banking As the business milieu gets tougher by the day, lenders are now focusing on strong retail banking. TONY CHUKWUNYEM reports

Wigwe

and a slowed economy. Today, we are realising the benefits of initiatives that were deployed last year in the retail banking space, evidenced by the rapid adoption and utilisation of our enhanced digital platforms. This translated to growth in our retail-related fee and commission income. “We are encouraged by these results, and in the coming quarters, we will intensify the implementation of our strategic cost reduction initiatives in order to improve our bottom-line. We will also explore and activate other innovative avenues to expand our digital banking proposition so as to achieve improved revenues and deliver sustainable shareholder value in the long term.” Compared with its peers that announced either declines or marginal increase in profit in their first quarter results for the year, Access Bank reported a 42 per cent increase in Profit After Tax (PAT) to ₦19.4 billion in Q1 2016 from ₦13.7 billion in Q1 2015. The bank’s Profit Before Tax (PBT) for the period rose to ₦22.6 billion, representing a 37 per cent y/y growth when compared to ₦16.5 billion in Q1 2015 while it recorded gross earnings of ₦80.3 billion in Q1 2016, up 5 per cent y/y from ₦76.8 billion in Q1 2015, with interest income and non-interest income contributing 69 per cent and 31 per cent, respectively. Significantly, the bank reported that its customer deposits increased by 7 per cent to N1.80 trillion in the first three months of the year from the N1.68 trillion it recorded in December 2015.

Oduoza

New entrant into retail banking would find the business very expensive because of competition and investments they have to make

UBA Similarly, reviewing United Bank for Africa’s (UBA) 2016 first quarter results, which saw the tier one lender growing fees and commissions by 12.5 per cent to N15.3 billion in Q1, analysts at Chapel Hill Denham said the impressive growth in fees may be due to higher electronic banking income. They pointed out that the improved deposit mix and lower cost of funds indicated that UBA was gaining strides on penetrating the retail space. It will be recalled that UBA’s GMD/CEO, Mr. Phillips Oduoza, had stated at his recent conference call with analysts and investors, that the bank’s strategy of investing in alternative service platforms like online banking, mobile banking, social media banking, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Point of Sale (PoS) terminals was to efficiently service its growing customer base and deepen financial inclusion at a relatively lower cost. He noted that the investment in digital technology had proven to be worthwhile, as it was helping the bank to grow its transaction banking volumes, with attendant fee income. In the same vein, Nigeria’s largest bank by market capitalisation, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB,) may have reported a decline in profit and gross earnings, it, however, recorded an increase in fees and commission from ₦12.43 billion in the first quarter of 2015 to ₦17.29 billion in the same period this year. Its customer deposits also grew by 10.3 per cent to ₦1.78 trillion in

the first three months of this year compared with ₦1.61 trillion recorded as at the end of December 2015. Challenges of retail banking But analysts point out that while retail banking could help banks survive the present tough times, it was still hindered by a lot of challenges and lenders would have to embrace innovative forms of this type of banking to be able to remain competitive in the global market. As the immediate past Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Mr. Bisi Onasanya, noted at a retail banking conference organised by the lender last July, the continental retail banking space was, “big and getting bigger. There is no doubt that we would need to find more creative ways to tease value out of this space, especially in the light of strong and growing competition, including from nonbank actors.” He identified infrastructure and lack of strong relationships across customer segments as some of the challenges militating against the growth of retail banking in Nigeria and other Africa countries. He said, “To this challenge, the following questions present themselves. Do we have enough traction, in terms of our infrastructure endowments to drive these process alterations? Are there cultural processes or values that may assist or hinder use of personal data to drive new levels of customer engagement? Are local governance arrangements for data use as strong on customer privacy on the continent as they are elsewhere? What do operators have to do to strengthen the process for collecting, storing, and retrieving data in ways that reassure our markets to part with these?” Also speaking at the event, the Chairman, “The Asian Banker”, Mr. Emmanuel Daniel, said a new entrant into retail banking would find the business very expensive because of competition and investments they have to make, while an existing bank with a strong customer loyalty would find acquiring customers much cheaper than a new entrant. According to him, “Retail banking performs an important social function in mobilising the financial resources of large populations. In the more developed countries, retail banking is about assessing a strong deposit base cheaply. We think that as competition increases in Nigeria, there would be greater mergers and acquisitions among players. In other words, there would be fewer large players over a period of time.” Conclusion However, commenting on the issue in a chat with New Telegraph, a top official of a new generation bank, who spoke condition of anonymity, argued that while big banks with large branch networks stand a better chance of succeeding in retail banking, other factors such as expertise in risk management and ability to innovate, also play in significant role in determining whether a lender remains profitable or not.

BUSINESS |MONEY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Uncertainty over Yuan deal as naira’s weakness persists VAGUENESS Federal Government yet to announce when implementation will commence Stories by Tony Chukwunyem

here is growing uncertainty in financial circles over the currency swap deal signed between the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Ltd (ICBC). Findings by New Telegraph revealed that doubts over the transaction have heightened following the Federal Government’s non release of comprehensive details on the pact more than three weeks after it was announced. This is even as foreign exchange dealers have attributed

the continued weakness of the naira on the parallel market to what they describe as the lack of information on the Yuan deal. The CBN and the ICBC, the world’s biggest lender, sealed the Yuan deal on April 12 during President Muhammadu Buhari’s State visit to China last month.The ICBC Director-General of the Foreign Ministry’s African affairs department, Lin Songtian, was quoted as saying, “Agreement means that the renminbi (Yuan) is free to flow among different banks in Nigeria and the renminbi has been included in the foreign exchange reserves of Nigeria.” CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, had said that he was optimistic that the agreement will strengthen the naira and help reduce the strong demand for the dollar in Nigeria. He said: “The agreement on the currency swap with China will definitely benefit Nigeria because the essence

of the mandate is to ensure that Nigeria is designated as the trading hub with China in the West African sub-region for people who want the renminbi as a currency denomination. “Also for us, we believe that using the renminbi will improve trade with China, as this will encourage importers to open L/Cs in the Chinese currency for the importation of raw materials, equipment and machinery from China, rather than other trading regions, so the agreement will encourage trade between both countries.” However, a forex dealer, Mr. Yakubu Ahonsi, said that he was not too sure now if the government really reached a deal with its Chinese counterpart because, if indeed there was such an agreement, Nigerians would have by now heard of its key details. He said: “I initially did not have any reason to doubt that Nigeria and China signed the

deal. But it is more than three weeks now since they (government delegation) returned from China and we still don’t know when the implementation of the agreement would commence and how much exactly both countries will be swapping.” He pointed out that the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Geoffrey Onyeama, seemed to have added to Nigerians’ confusion on the issue when he was reported as saying that what Nigeria and China signed was not a currency swap. The forex dealer noted that uncertainty surrounding the transaction was mainly responsible for the naira’s continued volatility on the parallel market. He said: “When we first heard the announcement that the deal had been signed and that it would help the naira by reducing the strong demand for the dollar, many people wanted to dump dollars in the

L-R: Executive Director, Market Operations and Technology, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) Mr. Ade Bajomo; Chief Executive Officer, Nairobi Securities Exchange Limited, Mr. Geoﬀrey Odundo; Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Oscar Onyema, and Director, Marketing & Corporate Affairs, Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), Zeona Jacobs, during a Seminar on building african financial markets capacity in Lagos.

AfDB to hold 2016 annual meetings May 23

he Africa Development Bank (AfDB) has commended the Government of Zambia for its commitment to successfully host the Bank’s 2016 Annual Meetings from May 23 to 27 in the capital Lusaka. AfDB Acting Vice-President for Corporate Services, Nnenna Nwabufo, said at a joint AfDB-Zambia press conference in Lusaka, “We have seen Government’s commitment at the highest level and we are impressed with the preparations so far. We look forward to the all the delegates coming to enjoy the hospitality that the country has to offer,” Nwabufo, who is leading the AfDB Annual Meetings mission in the country, said that that the Bank has seen the authorities’ commitment

to ensuring that the meetings are a success. Each year, an estimated 2,500 delegates from around the world attend the meetings, which bring together African and external actors to share ideas and experiences on mapping the future of Africa in an inclusive and sustainable way. According to a statement issued by the bank, “This year’s meeting will focus on “Energy and climate change” – a timely theme for the world and particularly Africa, given that about 645 million Africans do not have access to electricity, 700 million have no access to clean cooking energy, and 600,000 die each year from indoor pollution from reliance on biomass for cooking.” Zambia Secretary to the

Treasury, Fredson Yamba, said preparations for the meetings have reached an advanced stage, adding that the overall implementation of the preparation plan is on track and facilities will be completed on schedule. “We have been working closely with the AfDB in this process and also in liaison with private sector organisations,” he said. Since 1971, the AfDB has committed more than $2 billion to Zambia, the statement added. The Bank’s support is directed towards public sector infrastructure projects in agriculture, industry, water and sanitation, energy, the social sector (education and health) and transport. Additional support valued at $80 million has gone towards the country’s private sector.

market. But because there was no further information from the government, the rates have remained above N320 to the dollar.” A national daily reported last weekend that sources at the CBN, the Ministry of Finance, and Foreign Affairs, said that they were still awaiting the Federal Government’s nod on when the implementation of the agreement would commence. According to industry sources, during the discussions with the Chinese, the CBN had proposed a swap of RMB50 billion, about N1.98 trillion ($10 billion). However, the apex bank is believed is to be considering a swap somewhere in the region of RMB20 billon, which is about N792 billion to N990 billion ($4 billion to $5 billion). It will be recalled that respected economist and Chief Executive Officer of Financial Derivatives Company Ltd, (FDC), Mr. Bismarck Rewane, had argued that currency swap deal will not make the naira stronger in the forex market. He said, “Will this transaction make the naira stronger in the forex markets? No. The impact on the currency pressure is neutral. This is because the swap deal does not increase the inflow of forex into the country.” He, however, stated that the deal would boost bilateral trade between Nigeria and China, even though, the agreement will also increase Nigeria’s dependence on China for imports of raw materials and equipment. The FDC Chief said: “While the objective of the swap deal is to correct the trade imbalance, the reality is that the deal will increase the dependency complex and parasitic relationship between Nigeria and China. Despite its drawbacks and more important, it will provide a negotiating platform for Nigeria to extract better trade and investment concessions from other Western countries.”

Islamic banking suffers setback in Ghana

fforts by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to encourage the establishment of an Islamic bank have been dashed, as the provisional licence that was granted to a Saudi Arabiabased financial institution has been withdrawn. According to an online news report, the BoG withdrew the licence it gave to Makkah after the company failed to meet key requirements for the granting of a full operation licence on two occasions. Under the current banking laws, an institution that is granted provisional licence has about six months to recruit personnel, get the necessary offices for its op-

erations, meet the regulatory capital requirement, before it would be given the green light to operate. However, it was learnt that the bank, in 2014 and 2015, failed to meet some of the critical requirements that would have enabled it open its doors to the public. The Bank of Ghana has, over the past three years, maintained that it is working to encourage the establishment of an Islamic bank in Ghana. Islamic banking is based on the principles of the Islamic law known as Shariah and guided by Islamic economics, which forbids the payment of interest.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS | Investor

Collaboration essential to curbing infractions

and malpractices in the Nigerian capital market, the then Inspector General of Police, IGP, Mohammed Abubakar, announced the deployment of 18 policemen to the SEC. They were deployed to prosecute criminal cases involving capital market activities and ensure that every culprit found wanting is dealt with in accordance with the Investment and Securities Act and laid down regulation.

The current state of capital market regulation will not be efficient without collaboration with the law enforcement agencies, writes CHRIS UGWU

perating environment relates to both the internal and external environment under which the companies generally operate. The internal operating environment includes the vision, purpose, values and strategy of the organisation; its leadership competences, ethics and governance issues. The external environment on the other hand, relates to the adequacy of capital market institutions defined as the rules, laws, practices and norms that regulate conduct in the capital market. A strong regulatory environment is crucial to protecting investors against infractions and enhancing investor confidence in the market. That is why a developed capital market is a world-class capital market and such market is one that engenders investors’ confidence, has breadth and depth in terms of product offerings, characterised by market integrity. Such market also has a sound regulatory framework, a strong and transparent disclosure and accountability regime, fosters good corporate governance and is fair, robust and efficient market place. The degree to which corporations observe basic principles of good corporate governance is an important factor for investment decision. However, in Nigeria, lapses in adherence to these principles have contributed majorly to crisis in the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) even as most countries have recovered from the global financial meltdown. Infractions Over the years, many quoted companies and other market players have been violating this important obligation, thereby keeping investors in the dark about their financial health among others. Many ignorant investors have burnt their fingers by investing in some of the dormant companies, which do not furnish the market with their financials following unreasonable manipulation of share prices, which firms in collaboration with other financial institutions, indulged themselves in. Regulatory efforts Following serial infractions by market players, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on April 2011, issued a new code of corporate governance to align governance in public institutions with global best practices. SEC has also made efforts to retool in performing its regulatory oversight by raising the bar to strengthen its monitoring capacity, in order to address is-

Gwarzo

sues arising from various market infractions in the market. The reaffirmed commitment by the regulator to do anything to compel operators in the market to obey the rules guiding it informed the decision to tighten the noose on market infractions and other miscellaneous capital market crimes. This avowed determination saw regulatory hammer down on heavy weights such as ETI Plc, International Standards Securities Limited, Woodland Capital Market Plc among others with BGL Plc as one of the latest in series to be suspended after investigation on issues relating to corporate governance breaches. Market watchers believe the regulatory framework that is in place for the monitoring market activities seems sufficient. But the framework alone without effective supervision and enforcement will render a market prone to manipulation and lack of transparency ineffective. In line with the thinking, the Commission believes that achieving partnership with the law enforcement agencies will give more teeth for regulators to realise zero tolerance on infractions to deal with defaulters and also serve as deterrent to others. Partnership with law enforcement agencies Just last week the SEC urged law enforcement agencies to collaborate with the Commission in its quest to ensure zero tolerance on infractions in Nigeria’s capital market and also ensure that perpetrators of fraudulent acts are brought to book appropriately. Director General of SEC, Mounir Gwarzo, made this call when he led members of the management of the Commission on a visit to the Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase in his office in Abuja. Gwarzo solicited the support of the IGP to enhance the ongoing co-operation between the Force and the Commission towards ensuring that laid down rules and procedures are adhered to in the capital market.

MD/CEO, NSE, Oscar Onyema

Regulatory strength must, therefore, be continually reviewed and beefed up to match growth

He appreciated the police on the work they have been doing since the collaboration started and sought for more in areas of specialised discipline such as forensic investigation to enhance the operations of the capital market. In his response, IGP Arase gave assurance to the Commission that the Nigerian Police under his leadership will do all that it could to assist the Commission in ensuring that incidents of infractions within the capital market are brought to the barest minimum. He commended the DG SEC on his desire to make the capital market free of malpractices, saying that no nation can develop with the increase in crime and corruption, adding that life and property, which includes tangible and intangible assets, must be protected. The SEC boss said the inter agency collaboration is in the right direction, as both Nigeria Police, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the Commission are committed to deliver mandate of protecting life and property of the people. He added that the administration would deal with anybody found defrauding the people in the capital market. The Investment and Securities Act of 2007, section 304 requires the Commission to refer matters of criminal nature to the appropriate criminal prosecuting authorities including the Nigeria Police. Some of these infractions include fraudulent disposal of investors’ assets, illegal fund management, wonder banks, insider dealing, corporate accounting fraud and share manipulation etc. Despite the great successes with tracking fraudulent practices in the market, the Commission said it is not resting on its laurels; as there are still illegal fund managers, wonder banks and possible cases of market abuse. It is hoped that this synergy with the police will help to significantly reduce, if not totally eradicate these activities to the benefit of investing public. It would be recalled that in its determination to eradicate crime

Operators’ perspectives Shareholders under the aegis of Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria in a telephone chat with New Telegraph, described the action of the apex market regulator as a step in a right direction that will help to bring sanity into the nation’s capital market. President, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Mr. Boniface Okezie, said the action of the regulator was to enable the company meet their obligation to investors and also to save others from running into investment hitches. A founding member of Nigeria Shareholders Solidarity Association, Alhaji Gbadebo Olatokunbo, said the collaborative efforts will serve as warning to erring companies that it was no longer business as usual. “The action is great and it shows that the SEC’s management is alive to its responsibilities. Besides, it is a signal to the companies and the capital market in general that it is no longer business as usual. We must always ensure that we abide by the rules,” he said. Olatokunbo noted that the collaboration would make the companies sit up for a better disclosure and post their results as at when due, thereby providing investors, analysts and stockbrokers the platform to predict the real value of the companies. Managing Director, Crane Securities Limited, Mr. Mike Eze, said the effort is one of the measures that will help ensure fair, efficient and transparent markets and also help to protect investors and reduce systemic risk. He noted that one of the greatest benefits offered by strong regulatory environment is market discipline. Eze noted that market discipline is believed to be capable of bringing out the best from not just quoted companies but also other participants in the market. He said that companies should be encouraged to come into the market and play strictly by the rules. Conclusion As the market grows, especially in terms of the nature and variety of players, as well as in transaction size and activities, regulatory vigilance must also grow. The bigger the market gets, the more real the scope for efficiency but at the same time, the greater the tendency for sharp practices and downside market risk. Regulatory strength must therefore, be continually reviewed and beefed up to match growth. Failure to do that will undermine the attractiveness of the Nigerian capital market and dampen its return prospects.

WEDNESDAY, may 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

maritime Curbing container theft with insurance Worried over incessant seizure of trucks laden with containers by officials of the Nigeria Customs Service, the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) has introduced indemnity form to curb theft and other sharp practices among operators. BAYO AKOMOLAFE reports

vacuation of cargoes without due clearance and container diversion at the seaports has been one of the major challenges confronting the government, importers and the customs agents for decades. While it has become a major revenue leakage in the port, it has also resulted in loss of cargoes to consignees. The criminal practice has refused to abate despite various measures that had been put in place by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). Such measures include Customs reform and modernisation, introduction of 48-hour cargo clearance, Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), Preshipment Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR), Direct Trader Input (DTI), Electronic Data Input (EDI) and Single Window, among others. It was learnt that smuggling of containers out of the nation’s ports, especially in Lagos, was being perpetrated by some syndicates working within and outside the ports without the payment of appropriate duties and fees, as stipulated by law. Between October 2015 and February 2016, over 40 trucks laden with containers cleared at the port were intercepted and seized by officials of Federal Operations Unit, Zone A of the NCS. Security To curb the theft among truckers, importers and Customs, the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) has introduced an indemnity form, which will protect its members whenever illegal or smuggled containers are intercepted by the Customs. Indemnity form is being introduced by the association barely two weeks after the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) embarked on the enforcement of minimum safety standards and mandatory vehicle entry permit on all trucks accessing the ports. However, this is not the first time the association would declare its intention to introduce indemnity form to protect its

Some trucks laden with containers on Lagos road

members. In July 2007, AMATO made similar move but it failed. The association explained that the indemnity form would also assist Customs to trace the owners of such contraband containers. Indemnity form Chairman of the association, Chief Remi Ogungbemi, said that the new system would enable them know all the information of the containers being transported from the ports to their destinations. He said that the indemnity form must be completed and endorsed by the importers and agents that contracted them to carry any containerised goods at the ports or border stations. The chairman noted that without information, there was no way his members would know, which container was legitimate and which one was carried illegally. He said: “This is why we have decided to come up with an indemnity form, which will contain all the information about the agent, the importer, the loading point and the agency name. This is to ensure that if our trucks were waylaid, through the form, the authority would know all the information about the cargo.” Justification The chairman said if customs officials intercepted the goods and containers, both importers and agents would be responsible. “The authorities would know the appropriate people to hold,” he added. Complaints Ogungbemi explained that some members of the association had suffered unjustly from customs’ brutality on offences not committed by them. He said: “Some of our trucks are seized and auctioned for the offence committed by agents and importers. “Why should customs seize our containers since we are only involved in the haulage of con-

tainers contracted to us by importers and agents? “It is an irony that the same organisation that certified the containers and released them now turned back to seize the containers and trucks that conveyed them.”

Our members are suffering because of unscrupulous clearing agents

Indictment He accused importers and clearing agents as being the cause of the problems faced by truckers, saying that most customs agents, importers and exporters were dubious and unscrupulous because they failed to make proper declaration. He said: “Importers should declare correctly what is going out or coming into the country. They are the people giving us all these problems. They are not honest. If all the shippers can be honest, there would be no need for customs to arrest our members. “Our members are suffering because of unscrupulous clearing agents, who will not tell customs what they are exporting or

importing. Ignorance “Most times, truck drivers do not know the importers or the agents of the cargoes, but with the indemnity form, they will know all information about the cargo they carry. “We will go further to seek audience with the management of the Nigeria Customs Service to approve and authorise the form so that it would become a condition by which all trucks would be allowed into the port to load or discharge cargoes.” Ogungbemi also recalled how some of their trucks carrying unprocessed wood were seized in October 2015 on their way to the port. He noted that the truckers were not aware that they were carrying illegal cargoes under customs’ export prohibition list. Conclusion A stakeholders’ summit by the customs, NPA, freight forwarders, importers and exporters and other port users is imperative to address the illegal practices.

IMB records 10 sea robbery attacks off Nigerian waters

en robbery attacks by pirates were recorded off Nigerian waters in the first quarter of 2016, the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has said. The bureau noted that 16 crew were kidnapped from chemical and product tankers in four separate incidents. The Director of IMB, Pottengal Mukundan, said that the current increase in kidnappings in the last quarter indicated unacceptable violence against ships and crews in the Gulf of Guinea, particularly around Nigeria. According to him, 44 seafarers had been captured since the beginning of 2016 off the coast of Nigeria. The director explained that it monitored attacks on ships, a focal point for international trading and shipping industry.

He said: “Worldwide, the bureau recorded 37 incidents in the first quarter of 2016, down from 54 in the same period last year. Three vessels were hijacked and 29 boarded, with 26 crew kidnapped for ransom and a further 28 held hostage.” He revealed that Nigeria and Ivory Coast accounted for two of the three hijackings recorded globally. Mukundan noted the Gulf of Guinea dominated all the 28 hostages in terms of numbers and severity. He said: “No small product tankers have been hijacked in South East Asia so far in 2016, after a spate of attacks between April 2014 and August 2015, which has been ascribed mainly to actions taken by the Malaysian and Indonesian authorities against pirate gangs in 2015.

business \ maritime

WEDNESDAY, may 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Customs: Seized contraband moved to IDP SECURITY

Classified documents protected from inferno at training school

Bayo Akomolafe

r ucks have moved 90 per cent of seized contraband at

• 2,438 cartons of frozen poultry seized

the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Warehouse in Ikeja to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Borno State in line with the Presidential directive. The contraband includes bags of rice, shoes, vegetable oil and clothing materials among others. In its interim report, NCS said that only 10 per cent of the seizures at the government warehouse in Ikeja, were

consumed by fire that razed its training school on Friday night. The service’s Public Relations Officer, Federal Operation Unit (FOU), Zone A, Mr Uche Ejesieme, noted that the fire spread from the training school classroom to Annexes A & B and inner chamber of the warehouse, housing most of the seized items, which include jumbo bales of second hand clothing, used fe-

male shoes/bags, used tyres, vegetable oil and other general merchandise. He explained that the Lagos State Fire Service and Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) were alerted few minutes into the incidence. Ejesieme said that the service could not give the exact figure of the goods destroyed in monetary terms, except when the internal audi-

tors move in to check the books. He said: “The duo responded swiftly and made spirited effort to control the inferno by bringing in excavators, fire vehicles and other equipment. The cause of the inferno cannot be ascertained for now in view of the fact that the interim report from Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and Lagos State Fire Service is

still being awaited. “We wish to recall that the internal auditors visited the government warehouse for inspection and auditing of records recently. We, therefore, wish to clarify that neither the report nor any other classified document was affected by the inferno.” He commended the effort of the Lagos State Fire Service and LASEMA for their proactive effort in containing the fire incident. Meanwhile, the NCS headquarters antismuggling compliance team based in Ogun State has impounded frozen poultry products valued at N13.16 million. In a statement by the FOU, the service’s Assistant Controller, Shittu Abdulmaruf, noted that one of his patrol teams intercepted a long trailer with registration number AGL 53 XF laden with frozen poultry products along the busy Ijebu-Ode Sagamu Expressway. He explained that physical examination was carried out on the truck and 2,438 cartons of smuggled frozen poultry products were concealed with 22 pallets of Maltina drinks.

Port police enforces minimum standard for trucks

he Western Command of Port Authority Police has launched the enforcement of safety and minimum standards for all trucks operating in ports within the Lagos area. General Manager, Western Ports of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Chief Michael Ajayi, said that the exercise was largely attributed to the diligence and commitment of the officers and men of the port police. In a statement by the authority’s spokesperson, Capt Iheanacho Ebubeogu, the management said that the police had been fully involved in all stages and had contributed immensely to its overall success. Ajayi also commended the activities of the marine police in protecting the waterfront and pledged assistance to the Port Authority Police.

business \ maritime

WEDNESDAY, may 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

NIMASA to restructure for growth INPUT Apex maritime agency targets strategic growth in five key areas in 2016 budget

Stories by Bayo Akomolafe

L-R: Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar giving a plaque to the Director General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside, when he led NIMASA management team on a working visit to the CAS office in Abuja

he Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) is to witness a radical restructuring for efficiency and service delivery. Director General of the agency, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, disclosed this during the defence of the agency’s 2016 Budget before the House of Representatives Committee on Maritime Safety, Education and Administration. He gave assurance of the committee of the management’s commitment to transparency, accountability and probity in the discharge of its mandate. Peterside said that there would be zero tolerance for corruption in the agency. He also explained that its budget would target a strategic growth programme for the maritime sector. Peterside added that NIMASA was committed to growing the maritime sector for the benefit of indigenous operators and the nation at large. The director general told

the committee that the agency had targeted strategic growth in five key areas in the budget. He listed the strategic areas to include maritime safety and security, maintenance of a clean maritime environment, port state control, human capacity and infrastructure development and elimination of corruption. Peterside noted that the agency would increase revenue generation for economic growth.

The director general said that the agency would tap into the vast potential of the Nigerian maritime industry by growing indigenous capacity with a view to making Nigeria a hub of maritime activities in the West and Central African sub-region. Chairman of the Committee, Honourable Mohammed Umaru Bago, commended the director general for his commitment towards the development of the maritime industry.

Firm floats online payment for cross border trade

perator of single window project, West Blue Consulting, has introduced an online payment solution for cross border trade in West Africa. The online payment system, which is the first of its kind in the sub-region, according to a statement, will facilitate faster clearance of cargo and lower cost of doing business at Ghana’s ports. The company urged Nigeria, Benin and other African countries to embrace the single window concept in order to put an end to excessive bureaucracy, which has been described as the most severe constraint to cross border trade in the continent. The new system comes with multiple advantages, such as secured transactions, increased transparency and financial inclusion capable of frustrating the use of cloned or forged trade documents. It offers importers and exporters flexible payment options through Visa and MasterCard, mobile money powered by telecoms operators and the various online payment platforms of commercial banks. The system has rendered paper invoices and bank confirmations with the attendant delay and inconvenience to members

of the trading community obsolete. Impressed with the noticeable improvement in trade processing at the port, the Director General of Ghana Ports and Habours Authority (GPHA), Mr. Richard Anamoo, commended the company for deploying innovative IT solutions to modernise Ghana’s cross border trade. He said what was very significant is that the new addition to the single window project would make it possible for port users to clear and take delivery of their consignments within 24 hours. The director general made the remarks while on a one-day working visit to the Customs Technical Services Bureau (CTSB), a unit under the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), to familiarise himself with the operations of the Bureau and implementation of the country’s Pre-arrival Assessment Reporting System (PAARS) developed by West Blue Consulting. Anamoo said that the IT solutions introduced by the company on behalf of the Ghana Revenue Authority had impacted positively on the performance of the GPHA, including helping to shore up revenue for the government.

He urged the director general to utilise all the resources at his disposal to restore safety in the Nigerian maritime domain and revamp the image of the agency, which had been badly damaged in the last few years. He said that the committee would support the agency’s programmes for 2016. Meanwhile, the director general has called for the deployment of inter-agency resources including the use of advanced technology to secure Nigeria’s maritime domain.

Peterside made the plea when he led a delegation of the agency’s management to the Air Force headquarters to seek solution to the rising cases of piracy in Nigerian waters. He called for an immediate review of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NIMASA and the Nigerian Air Force with a view to strengthening the agency’s capacity to deal with maritime crimes as well as reduce the response time for Search and Rescue (SAR).

Women face sexual harassment on board ships

ighteen per cent of the global women seafarers are facing sexual harassment, stress, anxiety and headaches aboard ships, President, Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Mrs Mary Hamman, has said. She made this known in a survey made available to the association. The survey is a joint collaborative study of the International Maritime Health Association (IMHA) and the International Seafarers Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN). According to her, a survey conducted between 2014 and 2015 by `Women Seafarers’ Health and Welfare Survey, revealed that 595 responses were received from women seafarers from a range of nationalities, ages and positions on board ships. It was learnt that the International Workers’ Federation (ITF) and Seafarers Hospital Society (SHS) also participated in the survey. The study revealed that joint/ back pain, stress/depression, anxiety and headache seem to be the most common symptoms reported by women seafarers and that 55 per cent felt that they were related to their work. The survey stressed: “Forty eight per cent stated that they

had problems with seeking medical care and offer suggestions to improve this, while 37 per cent of women seafarers also stated that they did not have access to sanitary bins within the toilet, while 18 per cent said that sexual harassment was an issue. “Routine wellness checks, nutrition and information on joint and back pains are the main areas that women seafarers said health screening/services/information would be most useful to improve their health and well-being.” The survey also revealed that the findings were necessary at a time the entire world was working to increase the recruitment and retention of women seafarers. The appraisal noted that some employers were often reluctant to appoint women cadets/qualified seafarers because of a false belief that women work at sea for less time than men. ``Women are often paid less than men doing the same work. Women may be denied the facilities/equipment available to men on board,’’ the survey said. The study explained that the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) called for a more active role to be taken in promoting the integration of women in the industry.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Literature

Arts

Herohood and the Nigerian project

Exploring classical music, jazz and its African connections

Ranti Ihimoyan and the MUSON Ensemble in performance at the concert

Tony Okuyeme

or about two hours, the serene Agip Recital Hall of MUSON Centre resonated with a rich potpourri of classical, jazz, and traditional music of contemporary Nigeria and South America, this Saturday evening. The hash sunny weather had given way to a breezy alluring evening for live theatre, in this case, a concert. The event was the opening day of the ongoing New Horizons: New Worlds - a monthly concert series aimed at developing talents and giving them a platform to express themselves. It is conceived by the Artistic Director of the MUSON, Tunde Jegede, with the full backing of society’s management, and it will hold from February to June. Thrilling the audience penultimate weekend, include Ranti Ihimoyan, an opera and crossover singer who is versa-

TONY OKUYEME ARTS EDITOR

tony.okuyeme@newtelegraphonline.com

Olaiwola Sakara in performance

tile in various genres of music including folk, jazz, pop and classical; Diana Baroni, a brilliant evocative singer and flautist who “lures those who listen to her like siren”; Raphael Guel, a guitarist and multi-percussionist who embodies the essence of South American baroque and traditional music; Simon Drappier, an exceptional French contrabass player who has worked in Jazz, Folk and Classical music both as a touring and recording artist; and Tunde Jegede a composer, producer, cellist and kora virtuoso. The music of Olaiwola Sakara ensemble not only added colour and rhythm to the performances but also shows the relevance of traditional music to

contemporary music – classical, jazz, opera. The show opened with performances by Diana Baroni, Simon Drappier and MUSON Ensenble, conducted by Tunde Jegede. Ranti Ihimoyan backed by the MUSON Ensemble conducted by Jegede serenaded the audience with her rich soprano voice as she sang George Frederick Handel’s The Messiah, and I Know That My Redeemer Liveth. The performances took an evocative, traditional note as Olaiwola Sakara Ensemble mounted the stage. Kate Aluko, Wura Samba, Imole Balogun, Olaiwola Sakara and MUSON Ensemble also wowed the audience with breathtaking performances. The highpoint of the night include Kate Aluko, Wura Samba, and MUSON Ensemble performance of Hill of Solitude Valley of Festivity and Heat Haze, composed by Tunde Jegede; climaxing with performances by Diana Baroni, Raphael Guel, Simon Drappier, Tunde Jegede, Wura Samba and MUSON Ensemble. The show took an intellectual with a film screening and panel discussion, at Nigerian Film Corporation, Ikoyi. Jegede, Kunle Tejuoso, Baroni and Didi Cheeka led the interactive discussion on traditional and contemporary issues in music. New Horizon, Jegede said, “is aimed at enriching and exposing local music talents to new skill; it is about the role

and function of music and the arts in society. It’s about education, exchange and empowerment and bringing people together from different stratas of society. New Horizons is about the development and advancement of young gifted musicians through creative, cultural and musical exchange. It is a place of art, ambition and creativity”. He added that New Horizon brings a new consciousness to the arts through a series of concerts, screenings, symposium and discussions. “The original idea was to develop artistes on the local scene, to equip students and local talents here, but mainly those in jazz, classical and opera music with contemporary skills. “Usually after graduating from MUSON, our students go to the U.S., U.K., South Africa and elsewhere to further their studies, as there are no opportunities here for them to practice. But this programme will provide them with opportunities and experiences professionally. So, it’s a platform for young artistes to develop themselves professionally. At the last concert, we had Age Beeka, Keziah Jones and others, but it was difficult to know who was a young or old artiste. “New Horizons: New Worlds is a unique cultural and musical exchange, and one that celebrates the rich heritage of Nigeria. It takes us on a journey from the classical world of the baroque to the traditional music of contemporary Nigeria and South America. New Horizons is all about creating a forum for alternative arts and expression to a wider audience. “It brings a new consciousness to the arts through a series of concerts, screenings, symposium and discussions. Based at MUSON, Nigeria’s premiere music institution, it brings together some of the most talented students of the MUSON school of music to perform alongside some of the finest musicians on the international and local scene. New Horizons has initiated exchanges and partnerships with the London Jazz Festival, Goethe-Institut, Institut Français, British Council, Lagos Film Society, Jazzhole, Miliki and has been featured on BBC and CNN”. New Horizons: New Worlds concert series sponsored by Air France KLM, Institut Francais and Goethe Institut.

ART

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

I didn’t plan to be a writer –Aluko NEWS Flora Onwudiwe

t was double celebrations for Mr. Seye Aluko, who clocked 63 recently, as he also survived a protracted illness recently. His literary friends and members of Grail Message gathered to celebrate his birthday with a solo performance at the Inner Restaurant of Grailand, Ogun State. But not many knew Seye as the son a renowned literary giant, the late Engr. T.M Aluko, a stringent writer, whose literary works deal with social change and clash of culture in the modern Africa. Before joining his ancestors in 2010, T.M. Aluko started with short stories before ventured into novels; One Man One Wife, One Man One Matchet, Kinsman and Foreman, Chief the Honourable Minister, His Worship Majesty, Wrong Ones in the Dock and A State of our Own. Seye, a civil engineer, poet, writer, musician, sculptor, painter, photographer and a cross bearer of Grail Message, showcased his three artworks and read his long poem titled “I am drift Wood”, while “I did it my Way” by Frank Sinatra was rendered by Alaba Mikaila. The event was also spiced with inspiring music including “Wanted Man” and “Blowing in the Wind” by Bob Dylan, and “The Streets of London” by Ralph Mctell, as well as Edelweiss’s sounds of music. Recalling that for two years he was ill, Seye said: “We should not engage in war fare. I thank God I survived what many people could not have survived; I am alive today because God is not through with me.” His performance was deservedly applauded while others were absorbed in at the col-

lections of his poetry and his three Sculpted works titled: “Arise Africa”, “Composition” and “Kolanut Blues”. Aluko promised to fast track the literary records of his father, and assured he will have a lot to say in the field of art, photography, sculpture and writing. “The problem I have is that I have many gifts and they interfere with one another, I have now learnt how to manage all of them and I will be able to do something productive. “My father was a disciplinarian, a role model, a shining star in his life time. There is hardly anything that I didn’t like about him although he was very strict and sometimes he is very fastidious. “He was a very great man and it was a privileged for me to be his son. He taught me many things; and I regret that I have not done many of the things he taught me,” he said. Aluko Asked why he studied Engineering, he said: “I was very good at Mathematics and Physics that was what lured me into studying Engineering at the University of Lagos. I did Civil Engineering but along the way, I discovered I did not plan that I had preferences for the Fine Arts, but I had a disto be a writer, cussion with my father who I was not pleaded with me to persevere and acquire my degree in civil trying to follow engineering. I worked for two my father’s years with a British consulting firm in Ibadan before I footsteps, it could switch into any profesjust happened sion of my choice. “I went to Pratt Institute in like that New York, is a School of Arts and designs, they took me into the foundation art where they draw a figure in a new state through a series of exercises , they taught us how to sculpt, paint and photography. When my father lost interest in pho-

Beautiful Beginning art exhibition for kids, teens,

tography, I took his camera; so I had taken photography while I was in king’s college. “It is not planned, I did not plan to be a writer, I was not trying to follow my father’s footsteps it just happened like that. At a stage in my life I was learning to play guitar and getting poetic. “I must call him my mentor because I was not sure that I was able to step into his footsteps at a time when my works were not published but I am happy that I have three books scheduled for publications, so I can now say that I am following his footsteps not because I want to follow his ways but may be it God’s will to be a writer.” According to him other writers also inspired him. “I am happy now that my road is a bit clearer with a lot of luck and patience though I have just started. I will say that my best is yet to come.

Poetry, performances as finalists emerge for VoTC competition

fter a three-day intensive auditioning held April 12 to 14 at the Freedom Park, Lagos, finalists of the 2016 edition of the annual “Vision of The Child” (VoTC) have emerged. The theme was “SisiEko@50: Ageing gracefully? Or Na so-so Pancake?” dedicated to the celebration of the golden jubilee of Lagos. The age bracket for the participants was 8-12 years.

Announcing the finalists at Freedom Park Lagos, Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka noted that a total of 500 students, age 8-12 years, from 200 public and private schools (primary and secondary) from different parts of Lagos State participated in the audition. He added that the competition has provided a platform for the students from various schools to explore their talents as well as showcas-

Participants at the 2015 edition of Vision of The CHILD

ing the depth of talents that abound in the country. The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Lagos State, Mr. Jamiu Ashiru, said that government is committed to the development of the arts and culture sector, and that it will create a platform for creativity to thrive as far as tourism, arts and culture is concerned. Also speaking at the event, Adaeze Umeh of Diamond Bank said the bank is very proud to be part of VoTC initiative. She added that it is also very significant because it is an avenue were young minds explore their creative abilities. Project Director for the Vision of the Child, Foluke George, said the entries were assessed by a panel of eminent jury comprising teachers, artists, child carers, and social workers. “The finalists will be in-

vited on May 14, 2016 to the Federal Palace Hotel – provided with brush, paint and easel and, will be required to illustrate their literary presentation in the complementary medium of painting. “The VoTC has evolved from the single disciplinary contest to a binary affair, namely, the Visual Arts, and the Literary. This provides an interactive challenge designed to stretch youthful imagination and skills across genres. One of the key elements of the VoTC is to hear voices of the youth and children and equip them to lead change. The Vision of the Child provides participating children the platform to express their understanding of the world they live in, their vision of what it should be, their dreams and fantasies through painting and the literary arts – poetry, prose, or essay.

n a bid to celebrate and showcase the rare artistic creativity of children to the world, Phinny’s Talent Studio is putting together an art exhibition for kids and teenagers on the 28th of May, 2016 at the Modern JP Clark Art Centre in the prestigious University of Lagos. This exhibition themed “Beautiful Beginning” will feature work of arts by children from the Nigerian and Lebanese community. “In addition to our primary goal for the art exhibition which is to showcase the artistic talents of the children and serve as a foundation for future achievement, we also have the following as objectives for putting together this first-of-its-kind initiative: to contribute towards the promotion of socio-cultural relationship amongst the Nigerian and Lebanese children who primarily make up the body of the studio; to encourage the younger generation towards engaging in productive self-development and nation-building activities; to task the minds of youngsters to think creatively and independently,” said Iwatan Israel, the organizer of the show. She added: “PTS Art Exhibition is an initiative of Phinny’s Talent Studio- a Kids/Teens-oriented organisation geared towards the discovery, grooming and management of artistic talents of young minds. Our core focus is to develop their inherent talents through creative activities in areas of music, dance, theatre arts, visual art, and modeling. “Over the years, we have helped a lot of Kids & Teens Identify, Develop and Harness their creative abilities. Through our vacation and free weekly flexibility classes, we have been able to reach out to over 500 children both directly and indirectly, making our effort towards child development recognized at the 2015 Spirit of Lagos Awards where the C.E.O. of the studio- Josephine Israel emerged in the top three award nomination for the Exceptional Youngster Category.”

Photo for Beautiful Beginning art exhibition

LITERATURE

Herohood and the Nigerian project I was thrilled to be invited by the author, Tunji Olaopa, to write a Foreword to this book. Let me be quick to add that I was trapped by the surprise of discovering that the Nigerian Civil Service, so egregiously demoted to a rather ‘dysfunctional trench’ in Nigeria’s struggle for development, has produced a major writer, a truly sagacious intellectual of the public sphere, who happens to be intent on correcting the ills of the system. Among his earlier books, I had found four - The Nigerian Civil Service of the Future; Public Administration and Civil service Reforms in Nigeria; Managing Complex Reforms; and Innovation & Best Practices in Public Sector Reforms - Ideas, Strategies and Conditions - among the most thoughtful, hard-headedly ambitious and admirable engagements with the public sector in our times. His best-advertised book, A Prophet is with Honour - The Life and times of Ojetunji Aboyade, belongs to a very special class. It takes off from being a biography of the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ife now Obafemi Awolowo University, an old teacher of mine at the University of Ibadan, and a much-tested economic adviser to successive Federal Governments in the seventies into the 90s. But it is more than being a mere biography. It is a painstaking exposition of the travails of managing change in a society quite desperately in need of prime movers. The desperation, as a virtual fabric of the whole society, is clearly the reason that the author is ready to grant the outstanding performers in our midst, the featmakers, so to say, the status of culture heroes. Otherwise, truly evident and uplifting, across Olaopa’s many books, is that he has turned his own admiration and worship of our heroes past into a means of personal, communal and national pursuit of organizational effectiveness. In an environment so much in need of seminal and constructive orientations, he has, I would argue, done enough to be placed among the heroes that he has been so keen to showcase and celebrate within a paradigm shift in the workaday study of leadership in our part of the world. This book, quintessentially, brings grand visibility and acceptance to those whom the author considers deserving of acknowledgement as heroes. By memorializing their feats, up-raising the heroic status of people like Claude Ake himself, and deploying the values and standards that he and others have upheld in sector after sector, a corrective is emplaced

Book title: Author: Reviewer:

Tunji Olaopa

A Prophet is with Honour-The Life and times of Ojetunji Aboyade Tunji Olaopa Odia Ofeimum

Odia Ofeimun

against the rudderless, morally anarchic devaluation of outstanding performers. Thus, a categorical shift from the old focus on charismatic political leaders takes place which grants leadership as a factor across other vocations and walks of life, and helps to set out a social narrative whose parameters are broader, more catholic, more universalistic. Quite heartily, it engages a Pan Nigerian landscape in which religious and political leaders, academics and intellectuals, entrepreneurs, philosophers, physicians, scientists and creative writers, actors and filmmakers, musicians and community leaders, are placed in the same force-field, as heroes. Politics is not thereby downgraded or degraded but visualized, in context, as one of the theatres in which leadership may manifest within a contingent net-

Book stand

work of outstanding performers. In effect, this book is laid out as a commingling of legendary entrepreneurs like Dantata, da Rocha, Ojukwu the elder, Dangote, Omolayole and an Onosode with maverick social consciences and educationist like atheistic Tai Solarin and lawyer-activist, human rights crusader Gani Fawehinmi, Pentecostal pastors like Enoch Adejare Adeboye, and Oyedepo, all in the same feast of herohood with Bishop Hassan Mathew Kukah, a catholic priest pursuing an ecumenical programme of dialogue between diverse creeds, on the same counterpane with Wande Abimbola, who is toasted for removing the libel and rudeness of the bad sciences that once consigned traditional religion, and specifically Yoruba Ifa divination system, to a zone of fetish, if not barbarism. By the same token, we are enabled to deepen acquaintance with great minds like Professor B.J. Dudley, one of Africa’s most rigorous political scientists; and Professor Ayodele Awojobi, a professor of mechanical engineering with specialization in vibrations, an inventor, social critic and futuristic thinker; and the savvy economist, Pius Okigbo; the mathmatician, politician and folk hero, Chike Obi; and scholar and gender activist, Bolanle Awe, writers and artists Wole Soyinka and Chinua Achebe, D. O. Fagunwa, Hubert Ogunde and the much younger Chimamanda Adichie - all of whose achievements may be consensually upheld as building blocks for the ultimate national edifice.

What we are reading

POETRIP

Coridor of Time

Oladipo Kehinde

Between the World and Me by TaNehisi Coates is an exploration of race in contemporary America – a lot of the violence that has gone on recently. He is addressing his 15 year old son in this book; it is like a father telling his son what he thinks of the race issues, what he is going to encounter as a black man in America.

The book essentially talks about the popularity of Nollywood in both Diaspora and in the Western world. I think what these crop of writers were trying to do with these essays is also how Nollywood film productions have been able to influence others countries that found some of these text very significant, that is the influence of some these productions to the social reality of these countries that want to improve their film making abilities and prowess.

TONY OKUYME ARTS EDITOR

tony.okuyeme@newtelegraphonline.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Lola Shoneyin

Tunde Onikoyi

Black: The Man or the colour? Sermon and sigh for Africa Why are we so lucky to live here We live here too We have plenty sun Desert Savannah Grass land And sisters of low land War and genocide Black: the man or colour? We live here Why are we so lucky to live here On the coridor of time? Common Fate of a black man Africa Is it true Is it true You have taken a short cut to maturity? Grow your vision From the memory of slavery Why are we so lucky to live here On the corridor of time?

BUSINESS |Money Line

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

CBN’s PMI declines in April

DECLINING Business activity fell to 44.2 points Stores by Tony Chukwunyem

ata from the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) – Manufacturing and Non- Manufacturing – for the month of April 2016 released yesterday showed a decline in the manufacturing and non-manufacturing PMI. While the manufacturing PMI declined to 43.7 per cent in April 2016, compared to 45.9 per cent in the preceding

month, the non-manufacturing PMI dropped to 44.3 per cent from the 45.4 points registered in the preceding month. According to data posted on the apex bank’s website, of the 16 manufacturing sub-sectors, 12, including furniture and related products; paper products; primary metal; electrical equipment; computer & electronic products; printing & related support activities and fabricated metal products, recorded decline in the review month. The remaining four subsectors such as, appliances and components; cement; non-

metallic mineral products and transportation equipment, however, recorded an expansion. Similarly, the CBN stated that the production level index for the manufacturing sector fell to 42.7per cent, declining for the fourth consecutive month, but at a faster rate than that recorded in March 2016. According to the apex bank, the employment level index in the month of April also declined, falling to 42.0 per cent. The level declined at a faster rate when compared with the level in March 2016. It also means that the index has now fallen for the

Online fraud to hit $25bn by 2020 –Report

new study from Juniper Research has found that the value of online fraudulent transactions is expected to reach $25.6 billion by 2020, up from $10.7 billion last year. This means that by the end of the decade, $4 in every $1,000 of online payments will be fraudulent. The study entitled, “Online Payment Fraud: Key Vertical Strategies & Management 20162020’’ found that the implementation of CHIP and PIN services at POS (Point of Sale) locations in the US is likely to be a key factor driving activity in the online fraud space. It argued that the greater security afforded by CHIP and PIN would persuade fraudsters to switch their attention from the in-store environment to the

CNP (Card Not Present) space. The new study identified three hot areas for online fraud. These include eRetail (65 per cent of fraud by value in 2020 - $16.6 billion); Banking (27 per cent - $6.9 billion) and Airline ticketing (6 per cent $1.5 billion). The study also claimed that eRetail would be particularly susceptible to online fraud, with the value of fraud in this sector increasing at twice that of banking and seven times that of airline ticketing. The research highlighted two key areas for fraud within eRetail:‘buy-online, pay instore’ and electronic gift cards. It argued that the continuing migration to online and mobile shopping, of both digital and physical goods (reaching over

$1.7 trillion in 2015) would provide a further incentive for fraudsters to focus their attention on these channels. Meanwhile, the research claimed that although banks are able to counter online banking fraud by deploying new technologies such as 3DSecure and device fingerprinting, these measures often only provide temporary respite, as fraudsters quickly find new ways to defraud. Similarly, while extensive efforts by the airline industry to deploy sophisticated Fraud Detection and Prevention (FDP) systems has reduced fraud significantly for some major airlines, this industry has also seen fraudsters shift their focus to other perceived weak spots in the system.

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

N19,142,526.05m N18,579,219.49m 12.8 12 10.77 US$46.29 US$27,089,608,047

Mar, 2015 Mar, 2015 Mar, 2016 23/03/2016 Mar 2015 3/5/2016 29/4/2016

Source:CBN

Description 15.10 27-APR-2017 16.00 29-JUN-2019 15.54 13-FEB-2020 16.39 27-JAN-2022 14.20 14-MAR-2024 12.50 22-JAN-2026 10.00 23-JUL-2030 12.1493 18-JUL-2034 Tenor (Days) Call 30 90 180

FGN Bonds

TTM

Price 104.54 114.58 111.91 120.62 109.79 100.32 83.54 97.16

1.06 3.23 3.86 5.81 7.94 9.80 14.30 18.29

NIBOR

Rate (%) 4.2500 8.2420 10.1127 11.7162

Bid Yield 10.45 10.54 11.61 11.43 12.23 12.43 12.49 12.54

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

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

Price 104.69 114.88 112.21 120.92 110.09 100.62 83.84 97.46

Tenor (Months)

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

NITTY

Rate (%) 5.1731 6.4137 7.3300 8.8857 9.6247 10.5416

1 2 3 6 9 12

Treasury Bills

Offer Yield 10.30 10.44 11.52 11.36 12.18 12.38 12.44 12.50

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

Money Market

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

Spot($/N)

Bid 199.14

Offer 199.24

Change (%) 0.00 ↔

NIFEX

Spot($/N)

Bid 199.0000

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

196.00

197.00

0.00 ↔

Offer 199.1000

Change (%) -0.08 ▼ -0.08 ▼

Change (%) 0.00 ↔

14th month consecutively. In the same vein, the banking watchdog said that the new orders index, which has been on the decline for three consecutive months dropped to 41.8 per cent in April 2016. The regulator, however, stated that the supplier delivery time index for manufacturing subsectors improved for the month of April 2016 to 52.2 per cent. Significantly, the index also showed that business activity declined for the fourth consecutive month, standing at 44.2 points in April 2016, compared to 46.3 points in the preceding month. According to the CBN, “Fourteen out of 18 sub-sectors recorded declines in the order: management of companies; construction; public administration; finance & insurance; real estate rental & leasing; wholesale/retail trade; utilities; accommodation & food services; repair, maintenance/

washing of motor vehicles; educational services; electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply; professional, scientific, & technical services; information & communication and transportation & warehousing. “The arts, entertainment & recreation sub-sector recorded no change. The remaining three sub-sectors recorded growth in the review month in the order: health care & social assistance; agriculture and water supply, sewage & waste management”, the CBN stated. The Statistics Department of CBN conducts on a monthly basis, the survey of purchasing and supply executives of manufacturing and non-manufacturing organisations in 13 states – two states in each of the six geo-political zones, and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT. The analysis result is used to compute the monthly PMI.

ADS Securities launches Arabic Trading App

DS Securities has launched their multiasset smartphone trading application with full Arabic language functionality. The OREX Mobile application, available for download from the Apple Store or Google Play for Android devices, according to a statement, is designed to enhance the trading experience for professional users through to private investors. The app represents a major investment for ADS Securities and has been in development and testing for over two years. Philippe Ghanem, CEO and Vice-Chairman of ADS Securities, commented, “In just five short years, ADS Securities has established itself as one of the fastest growing brokerages in the world because of our unique business model: market-driven expansion of our products and services, investment in innovative technology, and our commitment to offering the best prices and service. The development and launch of OREX Mobile is the natural next step in the evolution of our brokerage business. It is a new way to access our high standard of service combined with market-leading prices and

spreads - OREX puts the power of a desktop in traders’ pockets to make the markets work for them anytime, anywhere.” The OREX Mobile trading app allows traders with smartphones and tablets to access more than 1000 instruments with a single swipe, whenever and wherever they are. Based on ADS Securities’ award-winning OREX technology, mobile trading accounts can be opened, funded and operational in just minutes. The original OREX technology, launched in 2013, according to the statement, was designed to offer access to primary and secondary market liquidity at institutional standards of excellence. “This is the first mobile trading application designed in the region, for the region, using state-of-the-art technology. It offers international pricing, products and service, all tailored to the unique requirements of Middle East traders. OREX Mobile is a first in MENA and a major step forward in ensuring that Arabic language traders have access to the same tier one mobile trading technology available around the world,” Mr Ghanem added.

UBA plans African expansion – Chairman

nited Bank for Africa (UBA) plans to increase its presence in Africa outside Nigeria to 25 countries from 18 now and inject capital into its subsidiaries in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, its chairman said yesterday. According to Reuters, UBA Chairman Tony Elumelu said the bank was gearing up with a view to “harnessing the potential represented by the wider African economy through its expansion plans”. “Our intention is to be the leader in African financial services,” Elumelu said on the sidelines of a news conference in Lagos late on Tuesday.

UBA, one of Nigeria’s largest banks with more 700 branches, has subsidiaries across Africa in countries such as Ghana and Ivory Coast in the west, Kenya and Uganda in the east and Mozambique and Zambia in the south. It also has offices in London and New York. The banks operations in the 18 African countries outside Nigeria now contribute more than 25 per cent to group operating revenue, Elumelu said. Last year, UBA’s pretax profit rose 22 per cent from a year earlier to N68.5 billion while gross earnings climbed 10 per cent to N315 billion.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS |Financial Market News FMDQ Daily Quotations List

3-May-16

The DQL contains data relating to, amongst other things, market and model prices, rates of foreign exchange products, fixed income securities and instruments in the financial market (the “Information”). The Information does not constitute professional, financial or investment advice. We attempt to ensure the Information is accurate; however, the Information is provided “AS IS” and on an “AS AVAILABLE” basis and may not be accurate or up to date. We do not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, completeness, performance or fitness for a particular purpose of any of the Information, neither do we accept liability for the results of any action taken on the basis of the Information.

Bonds FGN Bonds

Price

Rating/Agency

Issuer

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

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

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

13.05 15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 15.54 16.39 14.20 12.50 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493 12.4000

581.39 480.13 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 576.93 605.31 719.99 266.02 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 1075.92 80.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

6,407.46

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

6,325.18

Rating/Agency

Description

Issuer

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs)

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

0.29 0.98 1.23 1.33 2.07 3.15 3.47 3.78 5.74 7.86 9.72 12.57 13.05 13.55 14.22 18.21 19.87

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

Bid Price

Offer Price

8.00 11.27 11.44 11.49 11.86 12.39 12.62 12.85 12.70 12.97 13.09 13.20 13.22 13.24 13.26 13.42 13.42

7.49 11.11 11.31 11.36 11.77 12.28 12.50 12.75 12.64 12.91 13.04 13.16 13.17 13.18 13.21 13.37 13.37

101.36 103.46 98.18 97.41 97.91 109.14 84.57 107.81 114.63 105.92 96.75 110.87 95.50 70.50 79.31 91.39 92.94

101.51 103.61 98.33 97.56 98.06 109.44 84.87 108.11 114.93 106.22 97.05 111.17 95.80 70.80 79.61 91.69 93.24

6362.457269

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

03-Apr-12

17.25

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Modelled Price

1.20

03-Apr-17

0.49

2.94

12.61

102.15

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

0.16 0.16 0.96 0.68 1.66 1.48 1.49 1.45 1.46 1.64 2.06 3.55 2.03 4.57 4.66 2.70 2.72 3.97 3.51 3.53 4.03 6.46 3.63

4.46 3.48 1.00 5.71 2.39 1.00 1.00 3.82 3.56 3.82 2.02 2.01 1.00 1.30 3.76 2.53 1.00 1.52 4.01 1.00 2.52 1.79 3.04

10.84 9.86 12.20 16.02 14.04 12.56 12.57 15.37 15.11 15.46 13.87 14.67 12.83 14.09 16.54 14.69 13.18 14.03 16.66 13.66 15.22 14.52 15.73

100.41 100.80 98.05 98.56 99.89 101.82 101.83 98.90 98.59 99.98 102.72 99.51 103.25 98.04 95.06 99.54 103.84 103.56 99.54 107.37 105.89 109.56 103.19

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

0.41 0.48 0.60 0.96 1.17 1.41 0.86 1.19 1.35 1.35 2.41 1.46 1.54 1.66 2.26 4.53 3.03 5.55 5.66 6.03 4.20 8.41 8.41 9.54

1.00 1.34 1.00 5.49 5.25 1.88 1.88 3.15 6.35 1.00 1.17 4.42 6.11 3.28 4.47 1.00 3.55 2.51 1.00 1.00 2.77 1.00 1.00 1.00

9.97 10.89 11.04 16.69 16.66 13.41 12.77 14.57 17.85 12.50 13.19 15.97 17.70 14.93 16.42 13.79 15.89 15.23 13.73 13.74 15.59 14.00 14.00 14.08

101.13 101.51 102.76 99.81 99.76 99.46 104.88 101.44 100.06 104.07 101.59 99.68 100.31 101.44 97.57 104.78 99.08 96.38 110.42 110.97 101.18 111.05 96.31 104.05

10-Oct-20

2.55

3.37

15.46

98.56

Agency Bonds Nil

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1.20

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1.23

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

446.12 446.80

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

538.53

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

546.96

Sukuk BBB-/Agusto

*OSUN

10-Oct-13

14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020

14.75

9.40

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

9.40

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

9.27

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

IFC

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

11-Feb-18

1.78

1.00

11.00

98.71

Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P

*AfDB

11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021

10-Jul-14

11.25

12.95

01-Feb-21

3.00

1.00

11.82

98.62

Bid Price

Offer Price

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

24.95 24.62 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

7.45

7.23

97.25

98.09

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

12-Jul-13

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

5.52

5.11

99.20

100.03

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

12-Jul-13

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

7.70

7.54

92.76

93.62

19-May-16

22.79

-3.02

Issuer

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

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

FGN

BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,446.05

Corporate Eurobonds 7.50 MAY 19, 2016

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC I

19-May-11

7.50

373.41

99.42

100.38

B+/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

8.53

7.11

98.52

100.14

B/Fitch; B/S&P

FIDELITY BANK PLC

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

20.79

19.66

78.05

79.60

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

8.02

95.50

B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P

ZENITH BANK PLC

6.25 APR 22, 2019

22-Apr-14

6.25

500.00

22-Apr-19

8.83

93.40

B/Fitch; B/S&P

DIAMOND BANK PLC

8.75 May 21, 2019

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

17.20

16.35

80.58

82.32

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

FIRST BANK PLC ACCESS BANK PLC II FIRST BANK LTD

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

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

8.25 9.25 8.00

300.00 400.00 450.00

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

13.69 13.87 14.53

82.25 83.00 76.00

B-/S&P

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

14-Aug-14

8.75

250.00

14-Aug-21

12.23

11.76

84.88

86.63

DTM

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Discount Rate (%)

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

3,523.41 3,093.34 Description

Issuer

Issue Date

Yield @ Issue (%)

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Commercial Papers Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP II 4-MAY-16

04-Nov-15

13.25

7.23

04-May-16

6.03

10.11

Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP III 29-JUL-16

04-Nov-15

13.75

2.77

29-Jul-16

6.18

13.71

13.28

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

10.00

**TREASURY BILLS^ DTM 16 23 30 37 44 51 58 72 79

FIXINGS Maturity 19-May-16 26-May-16 2-Jun-16 9-Jun-16 16-Jun-16 23-Jun-16 30-Jun-16 14-Jul-16 21-Jul-16

Bid Discount (%) 3.28 3.80 5.15 5.88 6.55 5.45 5.46 5.77 6.79

Offer Discount (%) 3.03 3.55 4.90 5.63 6.30 5.20 5.21 5.52 6.54

Bid Yield (%) 3.28 3.81 5.17 5.91 6.60 5.49 5.51 5.83 6.89

Money Market

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 3.4667 8.5686 10.5294 12.3423

NITTY

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

3.08

O/N

3.50

Tenor Call 1M 3M

REPO

Rate (%) 3.50 4.50 5.33

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

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

197.33 199.13 199.31 199.90 200.88 202.43 207.10

197.43 199.65 199.84 200.44 201.47 203.68 209.09

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

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TOTALTELEGRAPH OUTSTANDING VALUE

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

15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 15.54 16.39 14.20 12.50 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493 12.4000

480.13 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 576.93 605.31 719.99 266.02 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 1075.92 80.00

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

0.98 1.23 1.33 2.07 3.15 3.47 3.78 5.74 7.86 9.72 12.57 13.05 13.55 14.22 18.21 19.87

11.27 11.44 11.49 11.86 12.39 12.62 12.85 12.70 12.97 13.09 13.20 13.22 13.24 13.26 13.42 13.42

11.11 11.31 11.36 11.77 12.28 12.50 12.75 12.64 12.91 13.04 13.16 13.17 13.18 13.21 13.37 13.37

BUSINESS |Financial Market News 6,407.46

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

103.46 98.18 97.41 97.91 109.14 84.57 107.81 114.63 105.92 96.75 110.87 95.50 70.50 79.31 91.39 92.94

6362.457269

6,325.18

Nigerian stocks hit 5-week high on MSCI index Rating/Agency

103.61 98.33 97.56 98.06 109.44 84.87 108.11 114.93 106.22 97.05 111.17 95.80 70.80 79.61 91.69 93.24

Description

Issuer

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

03-Apr-12

17.25

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Modelled Price

1.20

03-Apr-17

0.49

2.94

12.61

102.15

Agency Bonds

Nil

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1.20

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Sub-National Bonds

EXODUS

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

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

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

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

Nigeria has also seen an exodus of foreign money from other assets

Stories by Chris Ugwu

ig erian stocks climbed to a fiveweek high yesterday TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE provider after index TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION MSCI said it would not change Corporate Bonds the status securiA+/Agusto; A-/GCR of Nigerian NAHCO A-/Agusto FSDH ties on its frontier index. Nil ***LCRM Nil MSCI, which has invited inNil vestor feedback on the A/GCR UBA ease of

Nigeria’s stock market, which has the second-biggest 30-Jun-11 14.00 30-Jun-09 15.50 on weighting behind Kuwait 19-Apr-10 10.00 30-Jun-10 benchmark, 13.75 MSCI’s frontier 31-Dec-10 14.00 gained 3.2 per cent yesterday 30-Sep-11 14.00 04-Oct-11 14.00 to levels last09-Dec-11 seen in March. 14.50 12-Dec-13 14.00top The index of Nigeria’s 14-Feb-12 15.50 10 consumer goods rose15.50 5 per 02-Oct-12 22-Nov-12 14.50 cent, with Nestle leading 12-Dec-12 14.75the 27-Nov-13 13.50 charge to rise 10.25 per15.00 cent, 31-Dec-13 31-Dec-13 the maximum allowed. 14.50 06-Jan-14 15.00 Other gainers included 09-Dec-14 15.50 17-Feb-15 16.50 Nigerian Breweries, United 27-Feb-15 16.50 30-Mar-15 and Dangote 17.50 Bank for Africa 01-Apr-15 17.00 Cement, which 27-May-15 accounts 17.00 for third of total capitalisation, each up 5 per cent. However,29-Sep-11 share dealing 13.00 by 25-Oct-13 14.25 foreign investors in Nigeria 09-Dec-11 0.00/16.00 20-Apr-12 0.00/16.50 has been declining. Foreign 06-Jul-12 0.00/16.50 share dealing fell to N34.4 30-Sep-10 13.00bil-

access to Nigerian stock markets14.00 inBENUE the 30-JUN-2016 wake of currency 15.50 IMOimposed 30-JUN-2016 controls last year, put 10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017 out a13.75 statement late last Friday BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017 14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017 saying the 30-SEP-2018 country would re14.00 DELTA NIGER II 4-OCT-2018 ceive14.00 “special treatment” in its 14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018 14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 upcoming semi-annual index 15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019 review in May . 15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 According to Reuters News, 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 13.50Taranenko LAGOS 27-NOV-2020 from MSCI Pavlo 15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020 14.50Management EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 Index Research NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021 said15.00 yesterday the firm was 15.50 BAUCHI 9-DEC-2021 16.50 OYO 16-FEB-2022 not officially “considering” or 16.50 BENUE 27-FEB-2022 17.50 PLATEAU on” 30-MAR-2022 “consulting a reclassifica17.00 KOGI II 31-MAR-2022 tion,17.00 but only “monitoring”. CROSS RIVER 27-MAY-2022 Any reclassification of Nigeria from the MSCI’s Frontier Markets index would have to 13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 be preceded by a consultation, 0.00/16.00 LCRM 08-DEC-2016 LCRM II 19-APR-2017 like0.00/16.50 all index changes”, he 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017 added. 13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017 MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 14.00 UBA II 30-SEP-2018 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019 15.00 FCMB 6-NOV-2020 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 15.50 TRANSCORP 4-DEC-2020 14.25 FCMB I 20-NOV-2021 16.45 UBA I 30-DEC-2021 16.48 FIDELITY 13-MAY-2022 16.00 TRANSCORP 26-OCT-2022 182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IA 30-SEP-2024 13.25 STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024 14.90 NMRC 29-JUL-2030

FTN Cocoa records N63m loss in Q12016 UBA *LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS# *DANA#{r}

TN Cocoa Processors Plc, had posted a loss after tax of *FCMB a pioneer-status agro al- N577.204 million for the full NAHCO *TRANSCORP HOTELS PLC lied company, *FCMB has con- year ended December 2014. UBA tinued to struggle with lower The figure indicated 181.79 FIDELITY sales and declining*TRANSCORP bottomper cent higher than N204.831 HOTELS PLC STANBIC IBTC line, as it posted a loss after tax million loss after tax reported STANBIC IBTC *NMRC of N62.568 million for the first at the comparable period of TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE quarter ended March 31, 2016. 2013. TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION This figure translated to The company’s revenue aSukuk loss of 1,793 per cent from also fell by 46.28 per cent from BBB-/Agusto *OSUN 14.75 OSUN II 10-OCT-2020 N3.695 million profits after tax N460.633 million to N247.418 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE million recorded during the reported at the comparable peTOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION riod of 2015. period under review. Supranational Bond According to reports, cocoa The company’s revenue in a 10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018 AAA/S&P IFC 11.25 AFDB 1-FEB-2021 Aaa/Moody's; AAA/S&P *AfDB Stock filing with the Nigerian processor companies were TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE Exchange (NSE) also declined paying the price for their unTOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION by 12 per cent from N387.972 serviced loans and high input Description Rating/Agency Issuer million in 2015 to N341.441 costs, with cost eroding sales. FGN Eurobonds million recorded during the Managing director of Ile6.75 JAN 28, 2021 BB-/Fitch; B+/S&P period under review. Oluji Cocoa Products LimitBB-/Fitch; FTN Cocoa Processors ed and vice president FGN 5.13 JUL 12,Cocoa 2018 BB-/S&P BB-/Fitch; had posted a loss after tax of Processors Association 6.38 JUL 12, 2023 of BB-/S&P Nigeria (COPAN) Mr. Akin N39.065 millionVALUE for the half TOTAL OUTSTANDING TOTAL ended MARKET CAPITALISATION year June, 2015. Olusuyi, said many of these However, the figure showed companies are burdened with Corporate Eurobonds MAY 19, 2016 B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC I 86.59 per cent lower than unserviced debts7.50estimated 7.25 JUL 25, 2017 B+/S&P ACCESS BANK PLC N291.394 million losses after collectively at about N40 bil6.88 MAY 09, 2018 B/Fitch; B/S&P FIDELITY BANK PLC 6.00 NOV 08, 2018 acB+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC tax reported at the comparable lion ($241 million). This 6.25 APR 22, 2019 B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P ZENITH BANK PLC period of 2014. cording to him in a report, 8.75 May 21, 2019 B/Fitch; B/S&P DIAMOND BANK PLC 8.25 AUG 07,credit 2020 B-/Fitch; B/S&P FIRST BANK PLC However, the company’s may also prevent new 9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021 B-/Fitch; B/S&P ACCESS BANK PLC II 8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021 revenue per cent lines from banks. B-/Fitch; B/S&P grew by 251.7 FIRST BANK LTD 8.75 AUG 14, 2021 B-/S&P ECOBANK NIG. LTD from N159.874 million in 2014 Executive Director, FTN CoTOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE to N159.874 million recorded coa Processors Plc, Mr. Akin TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION during the period under re- Laoye, attributed access to fiDescription Issuer view. Rating/Agency nance as a big problem in the FTN Papers Cocoa Processors sector. Commercial

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

18.00 16.00 18.00 16.00 14.00 15.75 18.00 16.00 15.00 15.25 15.50 14.25 16.45 16.48 16.00 16.29 13.25 14.90

0.46 3.60 1.82 0.50 35.00 1.50 0.27 4.50 23.19 2.05 9.76 26.00 30.50 30.00 10.00 0.10 15.44 7.90

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

revenues, prompting the central bank10.84 to peg the 100.41 currency 4.46 3.48 9.86 100.80 and introduce curbs to protect 1.00 12.20 98.05 5.71 16.02 98.56 foreign exchange reserves, 2.39 14.04 99.89 which have 11-year 1.00 12.56fallen to an 101.82 1.00 12.57 101.83 low. 3.82 15.37 98.90 3.56For MSCI 15.11 the ease98.59 of capi3.82 15.46 99.98 tal and outflows 2.02 inflows 13.87 102.72 is one 2.01 14.67 99.51 of criteria in103.25 its mar1.00 the key 12.83 1.30 14.09 98.04 ket classification framework. 3.76 16.54 95.06 2.53 14.69 Being excluded from99.54 MSCI’s 1.00 13.18 103.84 Frontier Market index 1.52 14.03 103.56would 4.01 16.66 99.54 create a higher hurdle for Ni1.00 13.66 107.37 2.52 15.22 105.89 geria. 1.79 14.52 109.56 3.04 to attract 15.73 investments. 103.19 Renaissance Capital estimated last April that about $480 million of MSCI bench1.00 9.97 101.13 1.34 10.89 marked money was 101.51 in Nige1.00 11.04 102.76 5.49 16.69 mutual funds 99.81 ria, in both and 5.25 16.66 99.76 exchange traded funds. 1.88 13.41 99.46

0.86 1.19 1.35 1.35 2.41 1.46 1.54 1.66 2.26 4.53 3.03 5.55 5.66 6.03 4.20 8.41 8.41 9.54

1.88 3.15 6.35 1.00 1.17 4.42 6.11 3.28 4.47 1.00 3.55 2.51 1.00 1.00 2.77 1.00 1.00 1.00

12.77 14.57 17.85 12.50 13.19 15.97 17.70 14.93 16.42 13.79 15.89 15.23 13.73 13.74 15.59 14.00 14.00 14.08

104.88 101.44 100.06 104.07 101.59 99.68 100.31 101.44 97.57 104.78 99.08 96.38 110.42 110.97 101.18 111.05 96.31 104.05

10.11

Airline Services’ Q12016 PAT rises 42%

Speaking in the same vein, irline Services & Logis- the 2015 financial year in a tics Plc has reported promising note with a 285 per the Chief Executive Officer, 41.88 per cent growth cent growth in profit after tax. Mr. Richard Akerele, said that in profit after tax for the first It recorded a profit after whilst much of this downquarter ended March 31, 2016. tax of N97.514 million during turn can be attributed to the The company in a filing the period under review from company’s determination to N25.302 million in 2013, repre- invest in the future by expandwith the Nigerian Stock Ex- 538.53 546.96 change (NSE) posted a profit senting an increase of 285 per ing into other regions of Afafter tax of N167.770 million cent while revenue firmed up rica, developing new facilities 14.75 9.40 2.55 3.37 15.46 98.56 for the 10-Oct-13 first quarter com- to N971.91210-Oct-20 million against back at home and diversifying 9.40 million recorded in pared with N97.514 million a N804.993 the revenue base into areas 9.27 year earlier. This indicated a 2013, accounting for 21 per cent. such as oil and gas, other facgrowth of 41.88 per cent. Airline Services reported a 1.00 tors such11.00 as competition 11-Feb-13 10.20 12.00 11-Feb-18 1.78 98.71 from 10-Jul-14 11.25 12.95 per cent 01-Feb-21 11.82 Revenue equally grew by 228 in profit after3.00 tax for 1.00 international players98.62 and pos24.95 14.18 per cent to N1.132 billion the third quarter ended Septem- sibly most important of all, 24.62 during the year under review, ber 30 2015 to N166.885 million the lack of an encompassing Outstanding Value Maturity Date Issue Date Coupon (%) Bid Yield (%) (%) Bid Price Offer Price from N971.912 million in 2015. ($’mm) from N50.877 million in 2014. Offer Yield and cohesive strategic govPrices & Yields Airline Services posted a Revenue grew by 30 per ernment policy that would on 07-Oct-11 6.75 500.00 7.45 from 28-Jan-21 N2.555 billion in 7.23 loss after tax of N57.260 mil- cent one hand97.25 provide for98.09 planned growth and suplion for12-Jul-13 the financial 2014 billion in5.522015. 5.11 5.13 year 500.00 to N3.317 12-Jul-18 99.20 on the other 100.03 ended December 31, 6.38 2015 as 500.00Chairman, Airline Servicport local 12-Jul-13 12-Jul-23 7.70 7.54 92.76service providers, 93.62 against a profit position of 1,500.00 es & Logistics Plc, Dr Patrick have in no small measure had 1,446.05 Dele Cole, had at the 18th An- an impact on this company N171.954 million in 2014. The group in a filing with nual General Meeting (AGM) and the industry at large. 19-May-11 also recorded 7.50 373.41 99.42 the company 100.38 the Exchange a said, has “As 19-May-16 is expected22.79with -3.02 Cole said 25-Jul-12 7.25 350.00 25-Jul-17 8.53 7.11 98.52 100.14 loss before tax of N56.823 milcompetition, we lost part of continued to take major steps 09-May-13 6.88 300.00 02-May-18 20.79 19.66 78.05 79.60 08-Nov-13 6.00under 400.00 market 08-Nov-18 8.02 new 8.02 95.50 group towards 95.50 lion during the period our share to the to lead the a 22-Apr-14 6.25 500.00 22-Apr-19 8.83 8.83 93.40 93.40 review from a profit before tax entrant in the Nigeria insuccessful future by actively 21-May-14 8.75 200.00 21-May-19 17.20 16.35 80.58 82.32 07-Aug-13 8.25 300.00 07-Aug-20 13.69 13.69 82.25 82.25 pursuing the venture into oil of N171.128 million in9.25 2014. flight catering industry”. 24-Jun-14 400.00 24-Jun-21 13.87 13.87 83.00 83.00 that the manageHowever, rev- 450.00He noted23-Jul-21 and gas76.00 catering business, 23-Jul-14the group’s 8.00 14.53 14.53 76.00 14-Aug-14 8.75 250.00 14-Aug-21 12.23 setting 84.88 up catering86.63 unit in enue grew by 28.02 per cent ment was committed to pur- 11.76 3,523.41 Rwanda and expanding the from NB3.554 billion in 2014 3,093.34 suing the implementation of as against N4.550 billion dur- measures to improve earn- Risk operation in Abuja in prepaOutstanding Value Valuation Yield DTM the Premium Date period. Yield @ Issue (%) Discount (%) ing the Issue review ings with Maturity plansDate to develop ration to(%)meeting itsRateshort (₦’bn) (%) The company also began company strategically. term medium term targets. #

Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP II 4-MAY-16

04-Nov-15

13.25

Nil

GUINNESS NIGERIA

GUINNESS CP III 29-JUL-16

04-Nov-15

13.75

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1.23

lion ($173 million) in March, down 66 per 30-Jun-16 cent from a0.16 year 1.30 2.05the stock 30-Jun-16 0.16 ago, exchange 0.96 said, 57.00 19-Apr-17 16.45 30-Jun-17than half 0.68 of adding that more 25.00 31-Dec-17 1.66 transactions were deals to 23.44 30-Sep-18 1.48sell 4.22 04-Oct-18 1.49 shares. 10.98 09-Dec-18 1.45 8.14 12-Dec-18 1.46 an Nigeria has also seen 21.68 14-Feb-19 1.64 exodus of foreign from 12.55 02-Oct-19money2.06 80.00 22-Nov-19 3.55 other In September, 21.65 assets. 12-Dec-19 2.03 JP 87.50 27-Nov-20 4.57 Morgan announced it would 5.00 31-Dec-20 4.66 4.03the country 31-Dec-20 eject from its 2.70 influ4.04 06-Jan-21 2.72 ential markets 3.97 bond 14.37 emerging 09-Dec-21 4.39 16-Feb-22 3.51 index due to the currency3.53 con4.53 27-Feb-22 27.10 which 30-Mar-22 4.03 to trols, were imposed 3.00 31-Mar-22 6.46 prevent a collapse 7.68 27-May-22of the naira. 3.63 446.12 Barclays followed suit shortly 446.80 after. Africa’s biggest economy 15.00 29-Sep-16 0.41 5.53 25-Oct-16 crisis in 0.48 deis facing its worst 112.22 08-Dec-16 0.60 116.70 as the 19-Apr-17 0.96 cades fall in the price 66.49 06-Jul-17 1.17 of 20.00 oil has slashed 30-Sep-17government 1.41

7.23

04-May-16

6.03

10.11

2.77

29-Jul-16

6.18

13.71

13.28

3-May-16

10.00

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 Money “Information”). not constitute professional, financial or **TREASURY BILLS^ FIXINGS Market The Information does Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) investment advice. Information is accurate; however, the Information is provided “AS IS” (%) and on an Bid “ASYield AVAILABLE” basis and may not be accurate or up to date. the accuracy, timeliness, completeness, performance DTM We attempt to ensure the Maturity Bid Discount (%) Offer Discount (%) TenorWe do not guarantee Rate (%) NIBOR 16 19-May-16 3.28 3.03 3.28 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. OBB 3.08 Tenor Bid ($/N) Offer ($/N) 23 30 37 44 FGN Bonds 51 58 72 Rating/Agency 79 86 93 100 107 121 128 142 156 163 170 177 184 198 NA 212 219 226 247 261 275 289 303 317 324 338 TOTAL OUTSTANDING 352

26-May-16 2-Jun-16 9-Jun-16 16-Jun-16 23-Jun-16 30-Jun-16 14-Jul-16 Issuer 21-Jul-16 28-Jul-16 4-Aug-16 11-Aug-16 18-Aug-16 1-Sep-16 8-Sep-16 22-Sep-16 6-Oct-16 13-Oct-16 20-Oct-16 27-Oct-16 3-Nov-16 17-Nov-16 NA 1-Dec-16 8-Dec-16 15-Dec-16 5-Jan-17 19-Jan-17 2-Feb-17 16-Feb-17 2-Mar-17 16-Mar-17 23-Mar-17 6-Apr-17 20-Apr-17

VALUE

3.80 5.15 5.88 6.55 5.45 5.46 5.77 Description 6.79 7.15 13.05 16-AUG-2016 7.53 7.70 15.10 27-APR-2017 7.89 9.85 27-JUL-2017 9.07 9.35 31-AUG-2017 8.86 9.09 10.70 30-MAY-2018 8.97 ^16.00 29-JUN-20199.14 7.00 23-OCT-2019 9.01 8.45 ^15.54 13-FEB-20209.28 ^16.39 27-JAN-20229.45 ^14.20 14-MAR-20249.15 9.41 ^12.50 22-JAN-20269.33 15.00 28-NOV-2028 9.21 9.72 12.49 22-MAY-2029 9.94 8.50 20-NOV-2029 9.99 ^10.00 23-JUL-203010.02 10.11 ^12.1493 18-JUL-2034 10.06 ^12.40 18-MAR-2036 10.47 10.44

3.55 4.90 5.63 6.30 5.20 5.21 5.52 Issue 6.54Date 6.90 7.28 16-Aug-13 7.45 27-Apr-12 7.64 8.82 27-Jul-07 8.61 31-Aug-07 8.84 30-May-08 8.72 8.89 29-Jun-12 8.76 23-Oct-09 8.20 13-Feb-15 9.03 9.20 27-Jan-12 8.90 14-Mar-14 9.16 22-Jan-16 9.08 8.96 28-Nov-08 9.47 22-May-09 9.69 20-Nov-09 9.74 9.77 23-Jul-10 9.86 18-Jul-14 9.81 18-Mar-16 10.22 10.19

3.81 5.17 5.91 6.60 5.49 5.51 5.83 Coupon 6.89 (%) 7.27 7.68 13.05 7.86 15.10 8.07 9.35 9.85 9.14 9.35 9.42 10.70 9.33 9.53 16.00 9.40 7.00 8.81 15.54 9.73 9.96 16.39 9.66 14.20 9.97 12.50 9.90 9.82 15.00 10.45 12.49 10.74 8.50 10.84 10.93 10.00 11.08 12.1493 11.05 12.4000 11.60 11.61

Bonds

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

Issuer

Issue Date

FMBN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Modified Duration Buckets

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

O/N

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

3.50

REPO

Tenor Call 1M TTM 3M (Yrs) 6M

Rate (%) 16-Aug-16 5.2576 27-Apr-17 5.8283 7.6340 27-Jul-17 9.3843 31-Aug-17 10.3240 30-May-18 11.6538

351.30 29-Jun-19 233.90 23-Oct-19 576.93 NIFEX 13-Feb-20 Current Price ($/N)27-Jan-22 605.31 BID($/N) 198.9875 719.99 14-Mar-24 OFFER ($/N) 199.0875 266.02 22-Jan-26 75.00 28-Nov-28 150.00 22-May-29 200.00 20-Nov-29 591.57 23-Jul-30 1075.92 18-Jul-34 80.00 18-Mar-36

Rate (%) 3.50 4.50 Bid5.33 Yield 6.17

(%)

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

<3 3<5 >5 Market

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

0.29 8.00 7.49 0.98 11.27 11.11 :Benchmarks 1.23 11.44 11.31 * :Amortising Bond 1.33 11.49 11.36 µ :Convertible Bond 2.07Management Corporation 11.86 11.77 AMCON: Asset of Nigeria FGN: Federal Government of Nigeria 3.15 12.39 12.28 FMBN: Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria 3.47 12.62 12.50 IFC: International Finance Corporation 3.78 12.85 Management 12.75 LCRM: Local Contractors Receivables NAHCO: Nigerian 5.74 Aviation Handling 12.70 Company 12.64 O/N: Overnight 7.86 12.97 12.91 UPDC: UAC Property Development Company 9.72Africa Portland Cement 13.09 Company 13.04 WAPCO:West 12.57 13.20 13.16 13.05 13.22 13.17 13.55 13.24 13.18 14.22 13.26 13.21 18.21 13.42 13.37 19.87 13.42 13.37 NOTE:

6,407.46

197.33 199.13 199.31 199.90 200.88 202.43 Bid Price 207.10 215.68

197.43 199.65 199.84

Price200.44

201.47 203.68 Offer Price 209.09 221.14

101.36 101.51 103.46 103.61 NA :Not Applicable 98.18 98.33 ^ : Market Prices 97.41 97.56 # : Floating Rate Bond 97.91 98.06 ***: Deferred coupon bonds DTM: Days-To-Maturity 109.14 109.44 TTM: Term-To-Maturity 84.57 84.87 ‡ : Bond rating under review 107.81expired 108.11 †: Bond rating N/A :Not 114.63 Available 114.93 {r} :Issuer in receivership 105.92 106.22 NGC: Nigeria-German Company 96.75 97.05 UBA: United Bank for Africa 110.87 111.17 95.50 95.80 70.50 70.80 79.31 79.61 91.39 91.69 92.94 93.24

6362.457269

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (₦’bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

FMDQ FGN BOND INDEX

Agency Bonds Nil

Rate (%) 3.4667 8.5686 10.5294 12.3423

6,325.18

# 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

17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017

Porfolio Market Value (₦’bn)

1,005.42 1,456.49 1,452.51 3,914.43

03-Apr-12

Total Outstanding Volume (₦’bn)

Weighting by Outstanding Volume

928.23 1,325.30 1,667.49 3,921.02

23.67 33.80 42.53 100.00

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

17.25

Weighting by Mkt Value

25.69 37.21 37.11 100.00

14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.50 14.00 15.50 15.50

1.20

Bucket Weighting

1.20

1.23 0.24 1.30 2.05 57.00 16.45 25.00 23.44 4.22 10.98 8.14 21.68 12.55

0.34 0.43 1.00

03-Apr-17

% Exposure_ Mod_Duration

12.80 29.42 57.78 100.00

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

0.49

Implied Yield

12.69 12.86 13.37 13.13

0.16 0.16 0.96 0.68 1.66 1.48 1.49 1.45 1.46 1.64 2.06

Risk Premium (%) 2.94

Implied Portfolio Price

135.4946 149.9729 112.5458 130.6288

4.46 3.48 1.00 5.71 2.39 1.00 1.00 3.82 3.56 3.82 2.02

Valuation Yield (%) 12.61

INDEX

1,232.69 1,300.17 1,356.85 1,243.93

10.84 9.86 12.20 16.02 14.04 12.56 12.57 15.37 15.11 15.46 13.87

Modelled Price

102.15

YTD Return (%)

11.2685 28.4032 34.7402 17.8873

100.41 100.80 98.05 98.56 99.89 101.82 101.83 98.90 98.59 99.98 102.72

40 News|south-west Ondo health workers protest five months unpaid salaries Babatope Okeowo Akure

ctivities at all gover nment health facilities in Ondo city were yesterday paralysed as health workers in the service of the state government thronged the streets to protest the non-payment of their five months’ salaries. The workers comprising doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory attendants, and records officers, gathered as early as 8.00am at the Specialist Hospital, Ondo, with different placards and leaves chanting anti-government songs. The protesters who also barricaded the road leading to the Mother and Child Hospital, thus paralysed vehicular movement in the area. Some of the placards carried by the protesters read: ”Pay our salaries”; “Shall we die before you pay us”; “We are saving lives, pay our salaries and save us from hunger,” among others.

However, the state government had appealed to the protesters to be patient with the government, saying efforts were ongoing to pay their outstanding salaries. Some doctors and nurses at the Mother and child hospitals and Trauma center said despite their professional contributions to the medical village which had accorded it international recognition, the state government had refused to pay their wages. The workers later moved enmass to the palace of the traditional ruler Oba Victor Kiladejo, who addressed them to be calm. Addressing the workers, the monarch explained that he felt the plight of the workers, assuring that he would intervene in order to seek quick resolution to the issue of the payment of the workers salaries. Oba Kiladejo who is also a medical doctor lauded the efforts of the workers in the health sector of the state, saying the worker interest would not be allowed to suffer.

Lagos records first successful bone bridge surgery Apollonia Adeyemi, Muritala Ayinla

he Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) has said yesterday that it carried out the first successful Bone Bridge Surgery in West Africa in December 2015, as well as successful Cochlear Implant surgeries on three deaf patients without the support of foreign doctors. This came as the government said it would soon embark on the renovation of its primary and secondary health facilities to provide quality services and decongest the tertiary health facility. A statement by Habib Aruna, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Akinwumi Ambode, also said LASUTH had its first successful Kidney Transplant carried out by its team of Urologists and Nephrologists in November 2015 and discharged the patient in good condition on December 1, 2015. The government said another transplant was being planned.

The state’s Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, who made this known at the ongoing Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in commemoration of Ambode’s one year anniversary, said just in 11 months, the state recorded remarkable feats in the health sector due to the purposeful leadership and support of the governor. He said in the period under review, LASUTH in collaboration with Vision Care and South Korean Community in Nigeria provided free cataract surgeries for 120 Lagosians and treated 250 outpatients between November 9 and 13, 2015 with 100 percent success rate. Idris also said under the blindness prevention programme, a total of 7, 250 patients with varying ophthalmic conditions were screened at 29 different community screening venues out of which 4, 867 representing 67.1 percent were given free glasses.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ambode appoints ex-CJ Phillips LASIEC chairman Muritala Ayinla

overnor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State yesterday announced the appointment of the immediate past Chief Judge of the State, Justice Ayotunde Philips as the new chairman of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), to replace the retired Hon. Justice Fatai Adeyinka. Ambode, in a letter

this story of his early days with the pupils of Ifesowapo Community Primary School I and II, Sanyo, Ibadan, while making a personal donation of school uniforms to the 400 pupils of the school, yesterday. The school was part of the structures gutted by a fire disaster ignited by

appointment by way of screening and resolution. The letter reads in part: “Accordingly, following the retirement of Justice A.F Adeyinka, the current LASIEC Chairman, Justice Ayotunde Philips (rtd) is being presented as the Chairman of Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC). “While looking forward for the favourable confirmation of the honourable House of Assembly, please accept the as-

surance of my esteemed regard.’’ After the letter was read, the House adjourned to May 9, 2016 for deliberation on the governor’s letter. The House, it would be recalled, had earlier confir medAmbode’s nominees for appointment as members of the Board of LASIEC. The nominees are Dr. Bunmi Omosehinde, Mr. Lateef Raji, Mrs. Toyin Ibrahim-Famakinwa and Mr. Olusegun Ayedun.

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Fola Adeyemi; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris and Special Adviser to the Governor on Primary Healthcare, Dr. Olufemi Onanuga, during the 2016 Ministerial Press Briefing to commemorate Governor Ambode’s first year in office of in Ikeja…yesterday

oruba youths under the aegis, National Coalition of Yoruba Youths and Students, has warned Fulani herdsmen against any form of attack on the people of the SouthWest. They stated that they would not take kindly to any unprovoked attack in the region as perpetrated in some parts of the country by the herdsmen. The warning came on the heels of killings of innocent Nigerians by people suspected to be Fulani herdsmen lately. Speaking on Monday at the event of the remembrance lecture in honour of late former deputy governor of Ekiti State, Mrs Funmilayo Adunni Olayinka, the group’s coordinator, Com Sunday Asefon, said the

Ajimobi attributes success to humble background yo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has attributed his success in office to sound education and adherence to parental guidance, saying these attributes propelled him to attain greatness in life in spite of his humble background as the son of an artisan. The governor shared

addressed to the State House of Assembly, which was read on the floor of the House said the decision to Nominate Justice Philips was pursuant to the powers conferred on him by Section 2 (1) and (2) of the LASIEC Act, 2008. According to the letter read by Clerk of the House, Mr. Ganiyu Abiru, the nomination of Justice Ayotunde was in tandem with the provision of the law which mandated that the House must ratify such

a fuel-laden tanker in the community on February 14, 2016. The governor had, during his sympathy visit to the area on February 19, 2016, pledged to provide free uniforms for all the pupils of the school from his personal purse as part of efforts to assuage their feelings.

Youths to Fulani herdsmen: Stay away fromYoruba land unprovoked killings in Benue, Enugu and other states by the herdsmen confirmed the porous security situation across the country. He insisted that the zone would repel any attack against the people, adding “Let me sound a note of warning to those masquerading under Fulani herdsmen to unleash unprovoked attacks on innocent people because any such attempt to in-

vade our land shall be repelled by the youths and students of this zone”. In a lecture entitled ‘Women Contributions to Democratic Development in Nigeria’, a member of the seventh House of Representatives, Hon Bamidele Faparusi, canvassed more leadership positions for women to facilitate gender equality in country. Faparusi, represented by the Chairman, Nigeri-

The quantity of cocaine allegedly found on a traveller at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos recently. Source: New Telegraph

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

3,320kg

an Bar Association AdoEkiti chapter, urged the President Muhammadu Buhari led government to adopt the 35 percent public office quota to women in order to engender equality in the Nigerian nation. The former federal lawmaker said the roles women of virtues like Mrs. Olayinka, Okonjo Iweala, Dora Akunyili, Oby Ezekwesili, and others had played in the development of the country buttressed the fact that the country is sufficiently blessed with women who can contribute meaningfully to its development.

No crisis in Ogun PDP– Party chair Wale Elegbede

he Chairman of the Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Engr. Adebayo Dayo, has disclaimed media reports that he and the state Secretary of the party, Alhaji Semiu Sodipo have been

suspended from office. In a statement issued yesterday in Abeokuta, Dayo said: “The attention of Ogun State chapter of the PDP has been drawn to the action of some former and suspended members of the Ogun State Chapter of Peoples Democratic Party

(PDP) in which they said my humble self and the State Secretary have been purportedly suspended. “Ordinarily, we would not have joined issues with these characters but for the fact that lies told severally without a debunk will naturally put up the garb of truth.”

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Igbeaku Orji UMUAHIA

he Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has said that the only ultimatum it issued over the Ugwuleshi 76 in Awgu, Enugu State was not with reprisal intentions as the organisation has never been violent in its agitations. In a statement signed by IPOB Head of Media and Publicity, Mr. Emma Powerful, entitled ‘Of Rabble Rousers and Agent Provocateurs’ and made available to journalist yesterday, the group said it has become necessary to clarify its position because of calls from wellmeaning citizens. “It has become abso-

News|south-east

Our ultimatum to FG not with reprisal intention –IPOB

lutely necessary (due to calls from well-meaning citizens), to state publicly, that we do not have any intention, let alone, plan to attack Northerners resident in the Eastern region in the name of reprisal attacks. “We are not a violent organisation; we are a peace loving mass movement, with branches in 98 countries, desirous of freedom from a ruthless, tyrannical oppressor who has held us down for decades,” it said. The group further stated: “Our prayer to be free to determine our future

and that of our children is legitimate and divine. We don’t have any reason whatsoever to attack and kill people in cold blood. We were mindlessly mowed down in Port Harcourt, Onitsha Obodo-Ukwu Road, Onitsha Bridge head and while praying at a school compound in Aba. We endured all with equanimity. Those who killed and buried hundreds of our members suddenly turned around to falsely accuse us of killing five of their kinsmen, the whole world rose in our defense. We can never get down low to kill people

in cold blood. We are not animals. “As we steadfastly march towards freedom (ala the Czechoslovakia style) we hope to maintain friendly relations and cordial trade agreements with our neighbors. “We don’t plan to create a hostile environment for our emerging new nation.” IPOB also stated that the calls for it to cancel its threats and ultimatum was uncalled for, but should be directed to rabble rousers and agent provocateurs who found their voices only after the Uzo-Uwani massacre.

NEMA donates relief materials to Nimbo community CharlesOnyekwere ENUGU

he National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has donated relief materials worth several millions of naira to the Ukpabi Nimbo community, in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu recently invaded by suspected Fulani herdsmen. New Telegraph gathered that the items were

to cushion the level of damage of last Monday, 25th April early morning attack, which left scores dead, hundreds displaced and many battling for survival at different hospitals in the state. While presenting the relief materials to the devastated community yesterday, Director-General of NEMA, Alhaji Mohammad Sani Sidi, who sympathised with the people, said the federal government shares in their grief

and pains. The NEMA chief condemned the attack and described it as a barbaric act. Sidi, who was represented at the event by the south-east zonal coordinator of NEMA, Mr. Martin Udeinya, said the gesture was in line with the agency’s mandate of responding to disaster affected communities in the country. “We are here today to present relief materials to Nimbo community after

carrying out a comprehensive assessment of the damage done to the area recently. “These items, will help to cushion the effects of the damage in the community,” he said. He disclosed that a fiveman committee made up of NEMA, Red Cross, NSCDC, ESEMA, and the police have been set up to ensure judicious and transparent distribution of the items to the real victims.

Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (right), addresing a coalition of women groups, during a protest over the recent attack on Nimbo community in Enugu…yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

o fewer than 13 civil society groups stormed Enugu State on Tuesday protesting the killing of several indigenes of Nimbo community in Enugu State by suspected Fulani herdsmen. While addressing the protesters at the Government House, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State announced that internally displaced camp (IDC) would be set up at Ukpabi-Nimbo very shortly to cater for those who abandoned their homes in the wake of the invasion. Governor Ugwuanyi narrated how every effort he made to forestall the herdsmen attack was frustrated by security agents.

Herdsmen attack: Civil society groups stage protest in Enugu He consoled the women and people of Nimbo, and appealed to those who ran away for their dear lives to return as government was about to set up IDP camp for them. He also announced that the government and all the Bishops in the state would be holding prayers at Nimbo on Thursday to pray for God’s intervention and peace to return. Ugwuanyi expressed gratitude to God that Ukpabi-Nimbo killings were attracting the attention of the entire country and the world at large, and that

it means there will be concerted effort to find solution to the menace. Earlier in a statement jointly signed by the groups which they handed over to the governor, the spokesperson, Mrs. Joy Onyeso said the 13 NGOs decided to embark on the protest after their meeting in Enugu. “We strongly condemn the killings, rape, abductions and maiming of our people in vulnerable communities in recent past, especially the killings on April 25th at Nimbo Community of Uzo-Uwani LGA. “We strongly condemn

security agencies who despite early signs failed to protect the law abiding citizens they were supposed to protect,” she said.

1,506.6m The estimated total population of Eastern Asia in 2000. Source: Un.org

126m

The combined total followers of NBA, NFL, MLB and NHL players in 2016. Source: Goal.com

APGA warns group over plot to destabilise party Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI

he All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) yesterday alleged plot by a group in the party, identified as Rescue APGA to destabilize the party and warned that it will not condone such. Addressing reporters in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state capital, the Deputy National Secretary of the party, Chief Jerry Obasi, noted that the group has been cloning phone numbers of some

of its national officers to call for a meeting. He disassociated himself from the group and urged them to allow the National Chairman of the party to concentrate on his work. “I don’t know anything about the group called rescue APGA and I advise them to refrain from their activities. ‘’There are more civilised ways to ventilate anger and not in this way. We will not tolerate any plan by any group to destroy our party. “We have one APGA and it is our duty to protect it.”

Imo Assembly moves to make Igbo language compulsory in schools

he Imo House of Assembly yesterday approved a bill seeking the compulsory teaching and learning of Igbo language in nursery, primary, secondary schools and tertiary institutions in the state. The bill also called for the establishment of an agency to enforce, promote and regulate the enforcement of the law. It was initiated by, Mr Donatus Onuigwe (APC), the member representing Oru East state constituency. During the second reading of the bill, Onuigwe expressed regret that Igbo language, in spite of being one of the three major languages spoken in the country, was gradually going extinct. According to him, the language is being relegated to the background in favour of English language with many children of Igbo extraction unable to speak the language. The lawmaker also complained that French had

been made compulsory for first year students of tertiary institutions in the state while Igbo language was not offered. “There is the need to reinvigorate the language by making it compulsory in schools. “There should also be debates and essay competitions in schools to promote the language,” he said. Supporting the motion, the member representing Ideato South state constituency, Mr Ikechukwu Amuka (APC), said that every effort to promote Igbo language should be supported. He explained that the identity of any tribe was their language and as such, Igbo as an indigenous language, should be made compulsory in schools in the South-East. Amuka said that this would promote the cultural heritage of the Igbo nation and called on all South-East Houses of Assembly to also pass similar bills into law.

Catholic bishop to FG: Disarm armed herdsmen now Igbeaku Orji UMUAHIA

s the attack of herdsmen continue unabated in some parts of the country, the Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, has urged the Federal Government to take immediate action to disarm the herdsmen who have left blood and anguish in their trail. He said it would be hypocritical to fight insurgency on one hand and ignore herdsmen who are carrying AK 47. Speaking during a sermon at Mater Dei Cathedral, Umuahia, Ugorji described the arm-carrying Fulani herdsmen as trained militia men who are parading the country as ordinary herdsmen. He warned that the Federal

Government should not exacerbate the already tensed situation by advocating a grazing field for Fulani herdsmen across the country. According to him, the entire scenario provided by the herdsmen has made it impossible for Nigerians to trust and deal with them as credible human beings, and wondered what a true herdsman would be doing with sophisticated weapons like AK47 assault riffle. The bishop, who was speaking against the background of the massacre of innocent citizens at Ukpabi –Nimbo, Uzo Uwani council area in Enugu State and other areas, lamented that the security situation in the country has become so bad that something drastic needed to be done.

NEWS | south-south

wednesday, may 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

APC tasks Buhari on Edo’s political crisis Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

he All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday tasked President Muhammadu Buhari on the political crisis rocking Edo State. The party sympathised with the victims of the recent attack on the gubernatorial campaign team of the state Deputy Governor, Dr. Pious Odubu, at Auchi, headquarters of Esako West Local Government Area, which occurred last week. APC in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Godwin Erhahon, expressed gratitude

to God for preventing the death of those involved and prayed for speedy recovery for those wounded in the attack. The party also on behalf of the victims of the attack apologised to them for some of the statements credited to politicians in the state. “We apologise to the victims and the public for the statements of some of our officials, who sounded sadistic and conspiratorial in a feeble but self-indicting attempt to trivialise the near tragic incident. Their reckless and ungodly utterances do not represent the culture of the APC.” It noted as “saddening that these heartless officials could not sym-

pathise with those who were wounded in the attack. “The very godly and peaceful conduct of the deputy governor is highly commended as it is now obvious that he does not move about with thugs, otherwise casualties would have been recorded on the side of the attackers and that could have helped the sadists and desperadoes turn the story against him.” The party further commended “all the other gubernatorial aspirants, who have openly condemned the attack, particularly Mr. Godwin Obaseki.” “APC appeals to the good people of Edo South to resist the temptation

L-R: Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Odubu; Governor Adams Oshiomhole and Secretary to State Government, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, at the State Executive Council meeting where the Governor announced a 5-day mourning period for the Oba of Benin, Oba Erediauwa, whose transition to immortality was announced last week,.

PFN cautions FG over herdsmen’s attacks Clement James Calabar

he Federal Government has been called upon to confront the threat posed by herdsmen in the country to avoid Nigerians resorting to self-help. Making the call in a communiqué in Calabar yesterday was the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Cross River State chapter, which also called on the government to arrest and prosecute all gun-carrying herdsmen anywhere in the country to ensure the safety of Nigerians. Cross River State Chairman of the PFN, Pastor Lawrence Ekwok, who read the communiqué, called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to arrest and immediately prosecute the perpetrators of what he called ‘this heinous crime.’ He said: “The Inspector General of Police should, for the sake of national interest, arrest and prosecute all gun-carrying Fulani herdsmen."

of viewing the attack on their illustrious son, the deputy governor as an ethnic plot, knowing that godly leaders from Auchi and other parts of Edo North have unanimously condemned the attack.” The leadership of the party appealed to the

BENIN

s a mark of honour and respect for the late Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Oba Erediauwa, who joined his ancestors recently, the Edo State Government yesterday declared a five-day public holiday to mourn the

revered monarch. The government in a special announcement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Kassim Afegbua, said only those on essential services in hospitals, health centres, the fire service and others are exempted from observing the public holiday. Afegbua said: “The

ASABA

socio-cultural organisation from Nsukka, Enugu State, under the auspices of Nsukka Platform, yesterday rose against the service chiefs, accusing them of gross dereliction of duty in last week’s Enugu killings by suspected Fulani herdsmen. The group wondered why the service chiefs failed to act 24 hours after Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi informed them about the impending attack.

While members of the group urged traditional rulers and community heads in the South-East to strengthen their neighborhood watch for utmost efficiency, they appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure the arrest, prosecution and punishment of all those

change OF NAME

Jinod

I formerly known and addressed as Kosewon Fatimo Folakemi now wish to be known and addressed as Jinod Fatimo Folakemi. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Stop killing, surrender your arms, lawmaker tells cultists Port Harcourt

Governor Oshiomhole, lowers the Nigerian flag to half mast at the Government House, in honour of the Oba of Benin.

Nigerian national flag is expected to be flown at half-mast across the state during the mourning period while work is expected to resume on Monday, 9th May, 2016.” The announcement added that, “All government offices, establishments and parastatals are expected to fully comply with the directive.”

Group wants service chiefs prosecuted for Enugu killings Dominic Adewole

those who have vowed to rather die or kill than see any aspirant other than their choice emerge as gubernatorial candidate.”

Emmanuel Masha

Oshiomhole declares 5-day public holiday to mourn Benin monarch Cajetan Mmuta

national leadership of our great party and the Presidency to rise to the challenge posed by the ugly trend in the ongoing campaign for the gubernatorial primaries of the party in the state. APC prayed God to “sanitise the hearts of all

involved in the dastardly act and ensure that such bloodbath does not repeat itself again anywhere in the country. Chairman of the group, Dr. Pius Ike, who addressed journalists in Asaba, said it was purely a criminal breach of responsibility. He said: "This is dereliction of duty and complicity on the part of the security chiefs. It is even more worrisome that Elechukwu is an Igbo man, who could not defend his brothers. For us, they have criminal tendencies," Ike said.

339

The number of fatalities in terrorists’ violence involving security force personnel in 1998. Source: Satp.org

he member representing Ahoada East Constituency II in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Edison Ehie, has urged cultists to surrender their arms and stop the senseless killings currently going on in the area. He warned that those who refused to toe the path of peace and repentance would face the full wrath of the law, stressing that the authorities would not fold its arms and allow a few individuals disrupt the peace of the society. The lawmaker, who made the appeal in Port Harcourt, following the attacks by gunmen suspected to be cultists of Ula-Apata and Edoha communities, which claimed some lives, stressed the need for the cycle of killings to stop. It will be recalled that the gunmen, who reportedly beheaded five people and made away with their heads during the attacks, threw the area into panic as many fled for their lives.

Delta community gives herdsmen ultimatum to leave Dominic Adewole ASABA

he people of Obiaruku community in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State have warned Fulani herdsmen in their locality to vacate the council area or risk a reprisal attack. To this effect, leaders and stakeholders in the community resolved that, henceforth, no cow must go across River Ethiope to graze. The community’s Youth Leader, Mr. Chika Uwabuofu, who spoke on the resolution of the community, said the herdsmen have resorted to hostage taking. He said eight members of the community were held hostage by Fulani herdsmen for over seven hours on April 26, 2016, a development, he said,

caused panic across the community. “After they (Fulani herdsmen) released our people, the next day, the Delta State Committee on Conflict Resolution, Chairman of Ukwuani council, our community leaders, vigilante group members and representatives of the Fulani herdsmen, met on the issue. “At that meeting, we told them to leave our land and we were told to come up with a resolution and another meeting was fixed for Friday. On the appointed day, the herdsmen refused to attend the meeting. “As a community, we resolved that Fulani herdsmen carrying out grazing activities on our land must leave so that our farmers can go back to their farms freely without harassment."

Death toll in Nasarawa killings rises to 30 Cheke Emmanuel LAFIA

he death toll in the attacks by suspected Agatu gunmen on Adayi and Loko in Nasarawa Local Government Area of Nasarawa State has risen to 30, a witness said. The witness, who spoke with New Telegraph on telephone, said that more corpses had been recovered within the scene of the incident that occurred on Saturday. New Telegraph report revealed that no fewer than 20 people and 83 cows were reported to have been killed during the Saturday attack by gunmen suspected to be Agatu militia. The incident, which occurred in Adayi and Loko

LGA of the state, was said to have disrupted commercial and social activities in the area and the state in general. The leader of the Fulani in Loko, Mallam Bideri Ahmadu, alleged that the attack was carried out by Agatu men from Benue State, even as the traditional ruler of Loko, Alhaji Abubakar Ahmed Sabo, also fingered Agatu youths in the killings. On his part, the Fulani community leader in Adayi, Mallam Ahmadu, however, alleged that the Agatu youths from Benue State invaded the communities at about 10:30 am on Saturday, April 30, shooting sporadically, killing 83 cows. Ahmadu explained that the plans of the suspected Agatu youths were to rus-

tle the cows in their boats across the River Benue, but that the cattle which were rattled by gunshots went berserk. His words: "Having realised that they could not achieve their aim, the Agatu youths opened fire on the cows, killing 83 instantly, while others that sustained bullet wound are lying critical ill in the bush.” When New Telegraph visited the area, the paramount ruler of the area, the Mai Loko, Alhaji Abubakar Ahmed Sabo, lamented how over

$0.3m

The total amount of endorsements of Alex Rodriguez (Baseball) for 2014. Source: Forbes.com

20 people including men, women and children in the area were killed in incessant attacks on Fulani by the Agatu youths from Benue State in recent times. The monarch, who condemned the unprovoked attacks on Fulani settlement in the area, regretted that Agatu youths, who continuously invaded, killed and maimed the people in border settlements, are the ones who quickly resorted to media propaganda to cover up their dastardly acts. The traditional ruler, who wondered that the Development Area had only two unarmed police officers despite the spate of communal clashes recorded in the area, however, appealed for more security operative in the area.

L-R: Director General, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Sule Zakari (left), presenting a plaque to Sokoto Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, in Sokoto... yesterday

Sokoto to NYSC: Give us more doctors, English, Maths teachers T

"As a border town, which records frequent attacks from Agatu youths, it only has two police officers with no rifle. We are only being assisted by soldiers, who are stationed at Oweto, the bridge construction site, to repel their attacks," he added. He, however, warned the Fulani against any form of retaliation, and that government has waded into the matter as any act of retaliation would not be condoned. The Director of Personnel Management of the Development Area, Danlami Umar, regretted that the community which predominantly thrives on fishing could no longer practice its trade as the water in the area had been taken over by Agatu youths, who kill any one they see on the river. While confirming the incident in a telephone interview, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of Nasarawa State Police Command, Ismaila Umar Numan, ASP, said that no life was lost in the incident, contrary to media reports that 20 people were killed. He said: “The command received a complaint that unknown gunmen shot and killed about 83 cows, but no human casualty was recorded. The Command has commenced a full scale investigation into the incidence.”

Tension in Benue as ICPC set to probe bailout funds’diversion

Cephas Iorhemen MAKURDI

he National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme has been called by the Sokoto State Government to deploy corps members, who are graduates of Mathematics and English Language to teach in its schools, as well as medical doctors. The governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal made the request yesterday, when the NYSC DirectorGeneral, Brigadier General Sule Zakari, paid a visit to the Sokoto Government House. According to him, with his administration's emphasis on health and education, more manpower is needed to complement the government's efforts in these areas. The governor said: "We need more doctors and teachers of Mathematics and English Language. We have a shortfall in those areas, but we are working to boost our manpower by

43 My expulsion won’t stand, says PDP chieftain

NORTH | news

wednesday, may 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

employing more hands, the posting of the youth corps members will complement our efforts in that regard." Towards enhancing the welfare of corps members deployed to the state, the governor pledged to rehabilitate all lodges and quarters used by corps members in all parts of the state, while an upward review of their allowances has already been approved. "We take the security and welfare of corps members seriously," Tambuwal added. On his part, Zakari said he was visiting all the NYSC camps to assess their readiness for the ongoing nationwide NYSC orientation exercise. He thanked the state government for the priority attention accorded the corps members in terms of their welfare, saying that has gone a long way in boosting the morale of the youths and NYSC officials in the state.

here was tension yesterday in Benue State, following President Muhammadu Buhari’s directive to the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Mr. Nta Ekpo, to commence investigation into the alleged diversion of N70 billion bailout funds meant for payment of workers’ salaries in the state. Investigation by New

Telegraph in Makurdi, the state capital, showed that special operatives of the anti-graft agency are to storm the state anytime from today, especially now that Governor Samuel Ortom, who left the state barely three weeks ago for the Peoples Republic of China, has returned to the state. Governor Ortom had set up a bailout committee, which was headed by the Deputy Governor, Benson Abounu, with the Secretary to the State Government, Targema Takema and the state Head of Service, Adaikwu Inwata, as members.

Other members of the committee were the Commissioner for Finance, David Olofu, representatives of academic and non-academic staff unions of the state-owned tertiary institutions as well as state representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). The ICPC had indicted Benue State for diverting N70 million, which it said was mysteriously paid into the Office of the Deputy Governor, Benson Abounu, promising to investigate the matter.

El Rufai redeploys four commissioners Ibraheem Musa Kaduna

arely a year after assuming office, Governor Nasir El Rufai of Kaduna State has effected a minor cabinet reshuffle as three commissioners were re-assigned to other ministries while one has moved to a Federal Government agency. In a statement issued by the governor’s Special Assistant on Media, Mr Samuel Aruwan, yesterday, El

Rufai redeployed Professor Andrew Nok from the Ministry of Health and Human Services to become Commissioner of Education, Science and Technology. The statement further stated that Dr Shehu Usman Adamu, the former Commissioner of Education, Science and Technology, has now been reassigned to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism. According to Aruwan, “Malam Shehu Balarabe,

is moving from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, to take charge of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.’’ Dr Paul Manya Dogo, who was the immediate past Resident Consultant at the Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, will succeed Professor Nok as Commissioner of Health, the statement said, adding that his name will be forwarded to Kaduna State House of Assembly for confirmation.

Nankpah Bwakan Bauchi

chieftain of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in Bauchi State, Shehu Gabam, has said that the recommendations of the party’s National Disciplinary Committee for his expulsion would not stand. The embattled PDP stalwart, who argued that no one could build falsehood on truth, disclosed this in an interview with journalists shortly after a consultative meeting with major PDP stakeholders in the state. He lamented that the crisis rocking the party is as a result of lack of internal democracy and derailment from vision of the founding fathers of the party. According to him, with this action, the party stands the risk of losing relevance and fizzling away in the nation’s political scene, unless the party is ready to put its house in order and correct the injustice being perpetrated by some of its leaders. Gabam said: "As a stakeholder in the party, certain injustices have been melted on the party."

Zamfara awards N1.5bn health contracts Idris Salisu Gusau

etermined to ensure quality healthcare delivery system and enabling environment for health workers and patients, the Zamfara State Government, said it has awarded contract valued at over N1.5 billion for the rehabilitation and expansion of General Hospitals in the state. The Commissioner for Health, Suleman Adamu Gummi, who disclosed this yesterday during the inauguration ceremony of the Zamfara State Steering Committee on the Operationalisation of National Health Act at the Fulbe Villa Hotel, Gusau, the state capital, however, said that Governor Abdul’aziz Yari has continued to accord top priority to the health sector. He noted that the 16-member committee was instituted by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with ‘Save the Child’ a non-governmental organisation (NGO) with a view to supporting and assisting the government in improving the state’s health sector.

NEWS

WORLD \ NEWS

PDP chair: Why I support Sheriff against South-West –Fayose  Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

kiti State governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, has opened up on why he is supporting the candidature of former governor of Borno State, Ali Modu Sheriff, against South West

that wants to produce the next chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).   The governor made this known in the lecture he delivered at press centre of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, Ibadan, in commemoration of this year’s World Press Free-

dom Day. The lecture was entitled: Journalism and Politics: Two Sides of a Coin.  Fayose explained that he initiated the process for the South West to produce the national chairman of the party, adding that he met with a chieftain of the party, Dr. Bode Olajumoke, to join the race.

CONFIRMATION/change OF NAME

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I formerly known as Mairo Yusuf now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs.Mairo Vera Davies Ibrahim. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

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Ezonfade

I Ebere Amadi hereby state as follows: That Ezonfade Sylvester Ebere is my son and to the best of my knowledge & belief my said son was born on 23rd day of July 1988 at Ekereme Town in Bayelsa State. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Sambo

I formerly known and addressed as Stewart Samuel now wish to be known and addressed as Bello Sambo. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

Kigboindi

This is to confirm that Aniso Kigboindi with which my Diamond bank/BVN was registered is the same person as Aniso Joseph Kigboindi. That henceforth I wish to be known and addressed as Aniso Joseph Kigboindi. All former documents remain valid. Diamond bank Plc and the general public should please take note.

Ntui

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Jennifer Ara Abob Akong now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Jennifer Ara Assam Ntui. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

prosecution, which could pave the way for the trial of several pro-Kurdish lawmakers on terrorrelated charges. The HDP, which believes the bill is aimed at suppressing dissent against the AKP government of president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, walked out of the constitutional committee meeting after the brawl. One legislator was left with a dislocated shoulder. Footage shot by a jour-

nalist sitting in on the sessions shows lawmakers throwing punches at each other amidst the heated debate. The proposal, which was prepared after Erdogan accused the HDP of being an arm of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), was later approved by the committee. The meeting took place after a previous session on April 28 was postponed when it descended into a fistfight.

Olugbemi

I, formerly known as Fagbemi Tolulope Adebola now wish to be known and addressed as Olugbemi Tolulope Adebola. All former documents remain valid. General public take note. I formerly known and address as Chidimma Adaku Anyadike, now wish to be known and addressed as Dadi Joy Chidimma. Other valid documents remain the same. General Public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Obiene Abraham Justice now wish to be known and addressed as Allias David. All former documents remain valid. First bank Plc and the general public should please take note.

mass brawl broke out in Turkey between legislators from the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and the pro-Kurdish People’s Democratic Party (HDP), with people throwing bottles of water and punches at each other. The row revolved around a contentious bill to strip legislators of their immunity for

Azibaetor

I, formerly known as Fagbemi Oreofeoluwa Oluwasemilore now wish to be known and addressed as Olugbemi Oreofeoluwa Oluwasemilore All former documents remain valid. General public take note. I formerly known and addressed as Ejiofor Gabriel Onyetoro now wish to be known and addressed as Ejiofor Gabriel Onyetorochi. All former documents remain valid. Banks and the general public please take note.

Mass brawl erupts in Turkish parliament over constitution amendment

This is to confirm that the names Ezekiel Kenneth Ibuwanighe And Victor Azibaetor refer to one and same person. All former documents remain valid. First Bank Plc,Diamond Bank and the general public please take note.

I, formerly known as Fagbemi Oluwatofarati Ayomide now wish to be known and addressed as Olugbemi Oluwatofarati Ayomide All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Adetono Muyideen now wish to be known and addressed as Adetona Muideen. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

I formally known as Okwudili Nwana George now wish to be known and addressed as Gideon Okwudili George-Nwana. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Afianyi

I formerly known and addressed as Aliemeke Godwin Jolly now wish to be known and addressed as Afianyi Chukwuemeke Jolly. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Dauebi

I formerly known and addressed as Peretu Ere now wish to be known and addressed as Diegbegha Dauebi. All former documents remain valid. Diamond bank Plc, First bank Plc, UBA Plc and the general public should take note.

Ogede

I formerly known and addressed as Richard Moni now wish to be known and addressed as Richard Ditorusin Ogede. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

Enetimi

I formerly known and addressed as Bishop Ekepidekumo now wish to be known and addressed as Felagha Ernest Enetimi. All former documents remain valid. UBA Plc and the general public should please take note.

Talemu

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ifenaike Oluwatosin Olayemi Azizat now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Talemu Oluwatosin Olayemi Azizat. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. NYSC and general public please take note.

Shehu

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Hajara Imam Shekarau now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ahajara Yusuf Shehu. All documents bearing my former name remain valid. NYSC and general public should please take note.

Fistcuffs at the parliament

Baby pulled out alive, three days after building collapse

escue workers pulled a six month old baby girl out of the rubble of a building in Kenya’s capital yesterday and reunited her with her father, more than three days after it collapsed following days of heavy rain. At least 23 people have so far been confirmed dead after the six storey residential block in Nairobi’s poor Huruma district crumbled on Friday night. Police are questioning the owners after President Uhuru Kenyatta ordered them detained. “The child, who had been buried for about 80 hours, was found in a bucket wrapped in a blanket.

She appeared dehydrated, and with no visible physical injuries,” the Kenya Red Cross said in a statement. The baby, named as Dealeryn Saisi Wasike, was identified by her father after she was taken to hospital for treatment, the Red Cross said. A Red Cross official said the fate of her mother was still not clear. The collapse of the building was the latest such disaster in a fast expanding African city that is struggling to build homes fast enough. Like many other cities in Africa, the population of Nairobi has climbed dramatically in recent years. The Kenyan capi-

tal had almost 3.5 million people in 2011, about a third bigger than a decade earlier, according to UN figures. Governments have struggled to provide basic infrastructure and bureaucratic processes to ensure planning rules are met. Many Kenyans who come to the city in search of work end up in one of several slums, such as Kibera, made up of makeshift homes of wood and corrugated iron sheets. Others live in slightly better off but still poor districts, like Huruma, where concrete buildings have risen rapidly amid potholed roads and ropey power supplies.

Rape, murder in India spark protests

undreds of people in southern India took to the streets yesterday to demand a fast investigation into the rape, murder and mutilation of a woman whose death has drawn comparisons with a 2012 gang rape that forced a change to the law. Indian police are looking for a suspect seen leaving the home of the 30 year old woman who suffered multiple stab wounds and had her intestines pulled out during the attack in Ernakulam, Kerala, investigators said. Protesters gathered outside the hospital where the woman’s body had been

taken, holding placards demanding justice for the victim, who belonged to the Dalit group, traditionally the lowest ranked in India’s caste system. “Neighbors have come forward and said they heard noises and saw a man leaving the woman’s home on April 28, the day of the murder. It appears to be someone she knew and we are following the leads we have,” district police chief Yatish Chandra told Thomson Reuters Foundation. The brutality of the case has evoked comparisons in the local media with the gang rape and torture of a 23 year old woman in

New Delhi in 2012, which sparked nationwide protests. India toughened its anti-rape laws in response to the outcry following the 2012 attack, but rape, acid attacks, domestic violence and molestation are common. Last year India passed legislation lowering the age at which someone can be tried for rape and other crimes to 16. Women’s rights and violence against women has been under the spotlight since the 2012 killing and last week’s attack underlines the particular vulnerability of women from lower castes, activists and experts said.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sport

Sport News injury stops Samuel from Mali, Luxemburg matches

Did you know? That Harry Kane has scored more away goals (15 goals) than any other Premier League player this season.

International Mikel is Chelsea’s ‘laziest’ player –Terry

46 46

Rio 2016:

Siasia goes tough …bars players from mid-week matches

Prince Obiaku

ead Coach of the Nigeria U-23, Samson Siasia, has declared that from May 9, he will no longer release invited players in camp to play for their clubs during Nigeria Professional Football League midweek matches. He also revealed exclusively to our correspondent that the number of players in camp would be reduced to allow clubs have full access to their players.

Siasia maintained that it was necessary to step up preparation for the men’s football tournament of the Rio Olympic Games because he was bulding a team that could go all the way. Speaking after Tuesday’s training at the practice pitch of the National Stadium, Abuja, Siasia noted that he barely had enough players in camp to start real preparations for the Olympics, which was barely three months away. He said: ”We are aware the clubs need their players but we are on national duty so those who are not re-

ally too useful to us will be dropped. “It has not been easy for me and my technical crew. I understand their plight that they need these players to do well in the League but then we must draw a line between national and club interest. I have always built the foundation of my team on the home-based players so it is players I have at my disposal that I will work and plan with. “Let me appeal to all involved to please bear with us because from next week, I will not release any player for midweek games. If the clubs cannot re-

Akas (right)

lease these players, then I am sorry, no matter how good these players are, they cannot be part of my plans.” He said the team must step up preparation for the South Korea Invitational Tournament coming up early June. “From the information at my disposal, we are supposed to be traveling on May 29 to Seoul. It means we have barely two weeks to prepare adequately for that competition that will have in attendance other teams that would be going to the Olympics.”

4th Okpekpe race dedicated to late Benin Oba

The Sport Team Adekunle Salami Group Sport Editor

Emmanuel Tobi Assistant Sport Editor

Ajibade Olusesan Sport Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya Sport Correspondent

rganisers of the annual Okpekpe 10-km Road Race slated to take place on May 7 have dedicated the fourth edition of the competition to the memory of the most revered Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Oba Erediauwa, (CFR). The late Oba was a passionate follower of sports in the country, as epitomized in his hosting of distinguished sports men and women who won laurels for the country. In a concise message released at an international press conference held in

Lagos on Tuesday morning, the organisers noted that: “The late monarch was not just a great unifier of all Edo people irrespective of clans and religious affiliations; he was also a keen lover of sports as a vehicle

Late, Oba Erediauwa

to promote peace and unity. We drew a lot of inspiration from the noble values Omo N’Oba espoused in conceiving the Okpepke race few years ago not just as a platform to discover, nurture and celebrate talents locally, nationally and internationally, but also bring global spotlights to Edo’s rich culture and tradition which Oba Erediauwa aptly embodied. The statement read: “We are further comforted that we have a worthy successor in the Crown Prince, Eheneden Erediauwa.

“It is with mixed feelings that the organisers of the Annual Okpekpe International Marathon received the news of the passing on to glory of our most revered Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Oba Erediauwa. “As our own modest way of celebrating this icon, the board met and resolved that this year’s edition of the Okpekpe race be dedicated to the great king as he joins his ancestors. “Our heart-felt condolences to the Crown Prince, Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole and the people of Edo State,” the statement read.

Ranieri: Winning the EPL title, amazing feeling

Pg 47

SPORT NEWS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Mikel is Chelsea’s ‘laziest’ player –Terry Emmanuel Tobi

helsea captain John Terry while giving unofficial awards to his colleagues named Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi as the laziest player in the team. Terry accused Mikel of always sleeping whenever the team travelled for engagements. “No one’s the lazy one but Obi Mikel sleeps everywhere we go on the coach. It could be a five minute journey and you look round and he’s

asleep. He sleeps everywhere!” In other award, Terry named controversial striker, Diego Costa as the team’s joker with Pato picked an angel. “The joker of the team would be Diego Costa,” Terry told Goal. “Very funny guy. “The angel would be Pato – he’s an angel! Willian would be Mr. Cool. He likes his clothes and his fashion. Branislav (Ivanovic) is the strongest. “Willlian has been our best player, Kurt Zouma was doing

well up until his injury but Willian has been the standout player for us, this year.”

Mikel

Olympics camp opens in Abuja Samuel (right) ssss

Adeolu Johnson

...as more players opt out of friendlies

igeria’s preparations for this year’s Olympic Games will commence on Thursday, May 5, as the homebased athletes shortlisted for the event have been directed by the Ministry of Youth and Sports to report to the High Performance Hostel in Package B of the National Stadium, Abuja. According to the directive from the office of the Director of the

Injury stops Samuel from N Mali, Luxemburg matches Emmanuel Tobi

SKA Moscow striker Aaron Samuel is doubtful for Nigeria international friendly matches against Mali and Luxemburg following the injury he sustained on Monday during his club’s 4-1 loss to Zenit St. Petersburg in the Russian Cup final. Samuel, who was substituted for landing awkwardly on his knee three minutes after scoring CSKA’s equaliser, is billed to travel to Germany to visit specialists and undergo surgery after damaging knee ligaments during the match. According the test results by CSKA Moscow’s medical team released on Tuesday, the 21-yearold has damaged the front and right side of the knee ligaments and he is expected to be out for

ABUJA

couple of weeks. Meanwhile, some players have already contacted the Nigeria Football Federation on their desire to withdraw from the matches, aimed at preparing the country for the 2018 World Cup qualifiers starting in October. “Some of the players want to stay out of the matches after a long and tiring season, while some say they want to be part of the Joseph Yobo Testimonial, which will be played same day as the Mali game May 27, in Paris,” an official informed AfricanFootball.com. West Ham striker Emmanuel Emenike has also berated the NFF for fixing the Mali match same day as Yobo’s farewell game in Port Harcourt, saying that will deny some of his friends in the Eagles from attending.

Nwakali, Osimhen inspire F’ Eagles to 3-1 win Azeez Ibrahim

lying Eagles skipper Kelechi Nwakali and Victor Osimhen hit targets in a 3-1 win over Federal Road Safety FC of Abuja Tuesday. The other score for the Flying Eagles was Orji Okonkwo. Arsenal recruit Nwakali returned from a minor injury to lead the team to another victory. The Flying Eagles have been

unbeaten in their test games preparatory to a U-20 AFCON qualifier against Burundi. The first leg of the qualifier is expected to be played by May 24 in Bujumbura with the return leg in Nigeria.

former capital. Some of the athletes will also be camped at the Cerob Hotel in Gwarinpa with the U-23 team moving to the Cerob Hotel wing in Wuye, Abuja. The Sports minister, Solomon Dalung, has promised that provisions would be made for travelling for foreign tours as a form of motivation ahead of the Olympics. Nigeria will participate in eight events namely canoeing, boxing, wrestling, weightlifting, athletics, football (men), Table Tennis and basketball.

Pillars target top spot against Enyimba Charles Ogundiya

ormer champions, Kano Pillars, are looking forward to claiming the top position on the Nigeria Professional Football League table with a victory against champions, Enyimba today (Wednesday). Pillars will take on Enyimba in a rescheduled game in Kano and a victory will take them to the top ahead of Rangers on goals difference. The four-time champions are basking in the euphoria of their 1-0 away victory against Sunshine Stars at the weekend and are looking forward to another victory against out-of-form Enyimba. “It is going to be a great battle on Wednesday,” Super Eagles defender, Jamiu Alimi, told New Telegraph. “I am looking forward to the game with Enyimba, we have 24

points from 13 games and currently second on the table, the stadium is going to be packed with both supporters. “We are having a great season and the consistency of our results is the proof, it won’t be easy, this is a very important opportunity to

Charles Ogundiya he Athletic Federation of Nigeria has concluded arrangements to host an AllComers Championship today (Wednesday) at the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos. AFN Head of Media, Olukayode Thomas, said in a press statement that the AllComers event was expected to be keenly contested as it would be used to select athletes that would participate in the Federations’ Golden League Meets. “The Federation will be selecting the best athletes from the All-Comers to partic-

equal Rangers at the top and move ahead of them.” Enyimba have drawn their last two matches at home against Heartland and Lobi Stars, while Kano Pillars are riding high with victories against Shooting Stars and Sunshine Stars in their last two games.

34 athletes for CCSF taekwondo training workshop Prince Obiaku

bout 34 athletes drawn from the six geo-political zones and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja will be part of this year’s Chika Chukwumerije Sports Foundation Training workshop billed to take place on

AFN stages All-Comers event in Lagos

T Nwakali

Federations and Elite Athletes Department, Ministry of Sports Hauwa-Kulu Akinyemi, the athletes from the Athletic Federation of Nigeria, the Nigeria Basketball Federation, the Wrestling Federation of Nigeria and the Weightlifting Federation are expected to begin another round of camping exercise. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation and boxing federation are expected to remain in Lagos because of the availability facilities for the two events in the country’s

ipate in the Golden League,” Thomas said. “While the best athletes from the Golden League will form our team to the African Championships in South Africa in June.” Already, athletes across the country; especially those based in Lagos are eager to get on for the season as demonstrated in keen contest witnessed in the recently held Track and Field Coaches Association of Nigeria (TAFCAN) Meet at the National Stadium in Surulere. Activities at Wednesday’s All Comers championships which is the maiden event of the year from the AFN is billed to commence by 8.00am and expectations are high for a spectacular show.

May 11 to 15. According to the Founder/Chief Executive Officer of CCSF, Chika Chukwumerije, “the participants are rightly treated like the champions they are, and exposed to the latest equipment/techniques/tactics that they need to excel in the sport.” The three-time Olympian added: “It has become easier to highlight the undeniable progress of the program’s vision with recent successes of past participants like 18-yearold Adamu Abubakar Isah and 17-year-old Shola Olowookere (presently Commonwealth Gold Medalists). The feeding and accommodation of the participants would be catered for by CCSF with only U-20 athletes expected to make it to the event scheduledfor Abuja.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

LEICESTER’S AMAZING FEAT

Ranieri: Winning the EPL title, amazing feeling

Mahrez

Vardy

Kante

Ranieri

eicester City manager Claudio Ranieri said it was an “amazing feeling” to have steered the club to the first top-flight title in their history. The Foxes emerged Premier League champions on Monday, when nearest rivals Tottenham drew 2-2 at Chelsea. Former Chelsea manager Ranieri, who took charge at the King Power Stadium in July 2015, said: “I’m so proud. “The players have been fantastic. Their focus, their determination, their spirit has made this possible.” Ranieri spent part of Monday in Italy with his mother, but is believed to have flown back to England in time to follow the Tottenham match. “It’s an amazing feeling and I’m so happy for everyone,” said the Italian. “I’m a pragmatic man - I just wanted to win match after match. Never did I think too much about where it would take us.” Leicester started the campaign as 5,000-1 outsiders for the title after almost being relegated last season. Ranieri said his players deserved to be champions, adding: “Every game they fight for each other and I love to see this in my players. “I’m happy for my players, for the chairman, for the staff at Leicester City, all our fans and the Leicester community.” Captain Wes Morgan described his team-mates as “like brothers”. A number of Leicester players gathered at the home of striker Jamie Vardy to watch the Tottenham match. “I can’t wait to get my hands on the trophy,” said defender Morgan, 32. “I’ve never known a spirit like the one between these boys. “Everyone’s worked so hard for this. Nobody believed we could do it, but here we are, Premier League

champions and deservedly so. Vardy, playing non-league football at Fleetwood Town four years ago, has scored 22 of Leicester’s 64 league goals this season. “It’s an unbelievable feeling. I’ve never known anything like it,” said the 29-year-old England international, who Leicester bought for £1m in May 2012. “We were scrapping to stay in the league last season and on Saturday we’ll be lifting the trophy. “That gives you an idea of how much hard work has gone into this season from every single player and member of staff. “It’s the biggest achievement in the history of a great club and we all feel privileged to be part of it. Harry Kane posted a picture of a pack of lions on Instagram as Spurs tried to hunt down Leicester. Jamie Vardy responded on Monday night with an iconic Lion King scene - Mufasa falling to his death... Midfielder Andy King has now won three title medals with Leicester, having been part of the team that won the third-tier League One seven years ago and the second-tier Championship two seasons ago. “I thought I’d seen everything with this club - I never thought I’d see this,” said the 27-year-old, who has made 23 league appearances this season. “It’s difficult to put into words. Forward Riyad Mahrez has been an influential figure for the Foxes. The 25-year-old Algeria inter-

Social media effects Leicester’s Twitter account has 519,000 followers - that’s around 7m fewer than Arsenal, 2.7m fewer than Manchester City and 900,000 fewer than Tottenham.

But it has been the Foxes who have been the talk of social media during the title run-in, far outstripping their rivals. Their title win on 2 May was off the scale.

national, who has scored 17 league goals this season, is the Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year. He tweeted: “CHAMPIONS!!!!! Thank u everyone !!!” Goalkee per Kasper Schmeichel, an ever-prese n t in the Premier League this season, tweeted: “Words cannot describe the

Drinkwater

love I have for my team-mates. “I dreamt of this since I was a boy and I will be forever grateful to you all.”

How did they do it?

4-3 defeat at Tottenham on 21 March 2015 was Leicester’s seventh Premier League game without a victory and left

Morgan

them s e v e n points from safety with nine games remaining. A late Andy King winner in a 2-1 victory over West Ham kickstarted their revival - and they have not looked back since At the start of this season the Foxes picked up where they left off in May, a 4-2 opening-day win over Sunderland taking them to the top of the table. They stayed there for two weeks before consecutive draws against Tottenham and Bournemouth saw them slip to third. That was supposed to be the start of their slide down the table - but it never happened. In fact, Leicester did not drop below sixth place all season and, after moving to the top again on 11 January courtesy of a 1-0 win at title rivals Tottenham, they would not relinquish that position for the rest of the season. Their form would enable them to clinch the title with two games to spare. But even if they win their remaining matches, they will have won the league with fewer points than any of the previous five winners. Their success, of course, has owed much to striker Jamie Vardy, the

Football Writers’ Footballer of the Year and PFA Player of the Year Riyad Mahrez, who have proved themselves a deadly combination, particularly when it comes to scoring goals. Can money buy success? It is 21 years since any team other than Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City or Manchester United won the top-flight title. And in an era of ever-increasing television revenue, where the latest deal is worth £5.136bn, it was considered unthinkable that any team could break the dominance of the traditional elite clubs. Yet Leicester have defied financial logic. Leicester’s wage bill has since risen from £36m to £57m, but that it is still only around a quarter of Manchester United’s from two seasons ago. If logic dictates that Leicester should have had little chance competing with the Premier League’s biggest clubs, what hope do they have when they face the best Europe has to offer in next season’s Champions League? The Foxes’ statistics are a world away from those of two teams who have already clinched two of Europe’s major titles, Juventus and Paris StGermain, and another on the brink of securing theirs, Bayern Munich. In winning the Premier League, Leicester became the first firsttime winners of England’s topflight title since Nottingham Forest achieved the feat under Brian Clough in 1978. Source: BBC

NEWS 48On Marble

“The person who doesn’t value you is blocking you from the one who will. Let them go.”

World Record

Sanctity of Truth

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

– Robert Tew

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016

Trial by ordeal

support the efforts of the present administration to return Nigeria to the path of economic and political sanity. I support the efforts of the government to get those that brought the country to its knees to account for their stewardship. I am sure that the massive despoliation of the country that occurred during the previous regimes took place based on the weaknesses of the institutional mechanisms of accountability. These weaknesses led people to believe that they can get away with whatever they do. I am also of the firm view that the country would have collapsed if the Nigerian people had not taken their destiny in their hands by changing the government at the National level. It is therefore important for the new government to be firm and courageous and get people to account for their misdeeds and deter others that may want to follow the same path of national self destruction. However, I believe that we can fight corruption, abuse of public office and public trust, economic crimes and sabotage within the ambit of the rule of law and due process. This is because those that abused their office, engaged in corruption and hurt the Nigerian economy breached the law and the constitution in doing so. It is important to use the same law and the constitution to deal with people that violate their intendment. The moment you go outside the law and the constitution in fighting corruption and vice you descend to the same level of law breakers with the people that you want to bring to justice. This should not be done in a democracy whose anchor is pillared on due process and the rule of law. The rule of law and due process revolves around the fact that those suspected of having committed a criminal offence are presumed innocent until proven guilty before a properly constituted court of law. Our democracy and our jurisprudence are based on the fact that nobody should be condemned without being heard. It is based on the fact that evidence against accused persons must be subjected to the crucible of the courts and only the ones that pass certain tests are admitted in evidence. Our democracy is based on the fact that it is better for a hundred accused persons to be set free than for one innocent fellow to be sent to prison. In countries that we follow and claim to learn from, some of the security agencies and operatives follow a lead for over one year. In the countries that we follow and copy from, the security agencies will start a particular investigation and will not pick up a suspect until there is a prima facie case against the suspect. When such a suspect is arrested, they will prefer charges against him and he is taken to court within a reasonable time and prosecuted. The security agencies do not just arrest a suspect and start scouting for evidence. They do not put themselves under pressure by

N150

Hard Choices FESTUS OKOYE festokoye2003@yahoo.com 0805-448-0565 (sms only)

Ibrahim Magu, EFCC boss

Mahmood Yakubu, INEC boss

going to look for “black market” court order to keep accused persons in their custody. They do their homework and make sure that things are in order before they pick up a suspect. But in Nigeria the contrary seems to be the case. Our own jurisprudence seems to be the reverse. It seems to me that we operate in a different plane. Here the suspect is presumed guilty and invited to prove his innocence. Sometimes, the right of suspects to be informed of the charges against them and to have the services of their counsel and facilities to defend themselves are treated with disdain. But those that drafted the constitution and made it the fundamental law of the land did not want anybody to be condemned without being heard. I am worried at the new trend that our criminal justice system is taking. Before, when someone was arrested

on suspicion of having committed a criminal offence, the person will be paraded on national television. When such a person was paraded on national television, the trial for all intents and purposes became a mere formality. In a society where rumour mongering is part of the judicial process, the fact of having been paraded on national television is enough evidence that the person is guilty. If the person is eventually set free, it makes little or no meaning. After all, everybody saw the person on national television. Such people carry the stigma all their lives. The most insidious of the new tactics is to start investigation on a particular matter today and release names of those being investigated to the media. The question is what do the security agencies intend to achieve through this tactics? The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) claimed that the government is investigating a case of corruption against some officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission. The agency accused the officials of having collected huge sums of money to rig and or compromise the 2015 elections. In the same story the EFCC released to the media, they insinuated that some civil society groups and organisations benefited from the illicit money. They agency did not release the names of the groups they claimed benefitted from the said illicit money. The implication is that every civil society group or organization that worked on the 2015 general election is suspect. As far as some people are

The security agencies do not just arrest a suspect and start scouting for evidence

The National Road Traffic Act was enacted on 1st January, 1949 during the colonial era. This Act is available in the Road Traffic Act Chapter 548, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990. It is this Act (1949) that gave birth to Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO).

concerned, the primary groups for investigation and those they believe are part of the scam are those that worked on elections. So, people are generally speculating on who is involved and who is not involved. But the damage has been done because some Nigerians believe that whatever is said on the radio and the television is the gospel truth. Some also believe in the dictum that there is no smoke without fire. My take on these issues is very simple. No security agency can secure conviction for any offence on the basis of underhand tactics. No security agency can legally convict any individual on the basis of media maneuver and blackmail. No security agency can tender a media report of dubious quality and use it to secure conviction. In law, it is said that suspicion no matter how grave cannot secure a conviction and I am sure that our colleagues in the security agencies are aware of this fact. What the agencies are doing is to engage in trial by ordeal. They release damaging information against suspects and leave the information hanging and some of those involved check into the hospital on account of high blood pressure. Others that are not involved spend the whole time making explanations to people that have already made up their minds on their culpability. The rumour mongers pick up the information and run with it. Some of those mentioned will not be invited for questioning and will not be charged to court but the information in the public domain is that they are guilty of whatever they are suspected of having committed. We should strive to run a country based on the rule of law and due process. We should try as much as possible to minimize putting out unverified information in public and tarnishing the image of people. We should strive to investigate matters properly before dropping same in the public domain. Trial and conviction by the media should be avoided.

HIGH CHIEF

WORKERS’ DAY: OSHIOMHOLE INCREASES MINIMUM WAGE TO N25,000 –News

- Smart man! Before they ask for N56,000, eh?

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