Wednesday telegraph wednesday, june 15, 2016 by Newtelegraphonline

EFCC raids Obanikoro’s residence, impounds vehicles

lIt’s not a crime to own property, jewellery – Diezani Juliana Francis

fficials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Com-

mission (EFCC) yesterday raided the Ikoyi, Lagos residence of the former

Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro.

The EFCC officials were alleged to have carted away cars found in Obanikoro’s

house. They also allegedly took away wristwatches. Sources claimed that the raid might be connected to roles Obanikoro played in

Nigeria's May inflation rises above six-year high

the 2015 elections, but EFCC’s Head, Media and Publicity, Wilson Uwujaren, said the reasons for the raid of the politician’s home would be made known in CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Sanctity Of Truth

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

CBN releases flexible exchange rate guidelines today }37

/newtelegraph /newtelegraph

Vol. 3 No. 847

Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Emefiele

Yar'Adua, Jonathan never took charge of military –Report }7

Jonathan

FG must hold dialogue with militants }10 – Abdulsalami

@newtelegraph1 www.newtelegraphonline.com @newtelegraph1 www.newtelegraphonline.com

Abdulsalami

CAN elects Ayokunle President amidst crisis }39

FG bails out states with N90bn bond ...releases N280bn for capital projects

N150

Rev Ayokunle

Stringent conditions Accountability and transparency Increase in revenue Rationalisation of expenditure Sustainable debt management Clean up ghost workers Set up efficiency unit Reduce recurrent expenditure Publish accounts Publish budgets Remove wasteful spending

Osun: Students attend classes in choir robes, Jalabia, Hijabs

}40

Some students of Baptist High School, Iwo, Osun State wearing different religious attires to school… yesterday

Sheriff working for APC –PDP

lI’m too big to be a stooge, says chair lAPC: We've no business with your crisis }2 High heels could damage your knees }10

NEWS

WEDNESday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sheriff working for APC –PDP Onyekachi Eze and Johnchuks Onuanyim Abuja

he All Progressives Congress (APC) has contracted the embattled National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, to destabilise the opposition party. The Senator Ahmed Makarfi-led National Caretaker Committee of the PDP made the allegation yesterday. The committee said it had "credible intelligence” (report) last Sunday night of a meeting between Sheriff and an un-named APC governor from North-West on the plot to destabilise the PDP. “The APC has contracted Sheriff and his cohorts to scuttle the chances of the PDP in the Edo governorship elections. We have credible intelligence that Sheriff had a meeting on Sunday night with an APC Governor from North-West, where it was agreed that he will be given full security and financial support to exacerbate the crisis in the PDP with the objective of preventing the PDP from presenting a candidate for the Edo State governorship elections, or in the very least, to prevent the PDP from offering a serious challenge to APC whose electoral fortunes has continued to nosedive,” Prince Dayo Adeyeye, a member of the caretaker committee in charge of publicity, stated at a press conference yesterday. But Sheriff's Special Adviser on Media, Alhaji Inuwa Bwala, said it is a case of pot calling kettle black. Bwala alleged that Makarfi and his cohort are

acting a script by a cabal who want to hijack PDP for their own personal interest. Also, the APC stated that it has no business with the crisis erupting in the PDP. Sheriff stormed the PDP National Secretariat on Monday and reclaimed the chairmanship position of the party. Adeyeye said Sheriff and his supporters were being used by the enemies of the PDP to destroy the party and to prevent it from re-organising itself so as to provide a credible opposition and alternative platform for the forthcoming Edo State gubernatorial and 2019 elections. According to him, "While we are still trying to understand the role of the police in the entire saga, it is curious that the police made no arrest of the thugs who openly brandished various dangerous weapons in and around the premises of the secretariat in full glare of the police. "It is also curious that the police claimed to be acting on 'orders from above' in allowing Sheriff and his cohorts to gain entry into the secretariat. If we may ask, who is the authority that issued the 'orders from above?'" Present at the press conference were Hajiya Aisha Aliyu (Women and Youth), Senator Abdul Ningi (Organisation and Mobilisation), Senator Odion Ogbesia (Financial Treasury and Audit) and Barrister Kabir Usman (Legal). Adeyeye described as false, the claim by Sheriff that there was a court order that empowered him to continue as PDP National Chairman, adding that despite his bravado, he did not display or made available the court orders to journalists.

"The truth of the matter is that Senator Sheriff has no court orders to back his claims. He and his cohorts continue to shop around to buy any court order at any price. But, so far, they have not succeeded, thanks to the vigilance and integrity of the judiciary," he added. He said Sheriff was appointed, not elected by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the PDP to complete the tenure of Alhaji Adamu Ma’uzu, which legally ended on February 14. He added that Sheriff was given an extension of three months by the NEC to organise a National Convention. "The appointment of Senator Sheriff was not ratified by any National Convention of our party; so constitutionally, he has no other mandate which can extend beyond May 21, 2016. "The case before Hon. Justice Ibrahim Buba of the Federal High Court, Lagos was instituted by Sheriff and others to restrain the PDP from conducting election into the offices of the National Chairman, National secretary and National Auditor. "The court did not restrain the PDP from conducting the national convention. The national convention is the supreme organ of the party under Article 3302 of the PDP constitution. "In the exercise of its power under Article 33(5) (b) & (e) of the constitution, the national convention removed all officers of the party and set up a caretaker committee to plan and organise a national convention within 90 days. "The National Convention of PDP can only be called by NEC and once that is done, it is only the CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

CCT chair, ex-Customs chief met several times –Aide Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

former Personal Assistant to the Chairman of the Code of Conduct of Bureau (CCB), Ali Gambo Abdullahi, yesterday told an Abuja High Court that the CCT chairman, Danladi Yakubu Umar, met severally in his chambers with an accused person, Mr. Rasheed Taiwo Owolabi. Owolabi, a retired Deputy Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service, is standing trial before him on false assets declaration charges. Abdullahi stated this while giving evidence in the trial within trial on the disputed statement he made to the Economic and Financial Crimes Com-

mission (EFCC) in respect of N10 million bribe allegedly demanded by the CCT Chairman from an accused person in order to strike out the charges against him. The witness, who was cross-examined by the EFCC Counsel, Andrew Akoja, told the court that it was at the end of the last meeting of the accused person with the CCT Chairman that a sum of N1.8 million was paid into his account by the ex-Customs chief. However, contrary to his statement made on August 12, 2013 that the N1.8 million was part of the N10 million bribe meant for the CCT chairman, the witness said that the money was deposited into his Zenith Bank account by the accused person to offset the

medical bill of his ailing father. The witness further told the court that he never met with the former Deputy Comptroller-General of the Customs until he started visiting the CCT Chairman in the course of his trial and that the money was paid to him immediately after the last visit to the CCT boss. Meanwhile, the trial judge, Justice Chizobia Oji, has adjourned adoption of addresses in the matter till October 20. It would be recalled that the witness had been arraigned before the court on charges of giving false information, but his denial of his first statement on the bribery issue prompted the trial within trial by Justice Oji.

NEWS

WEDNESday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

FG bails out states with N90bn bond

Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

n the face of the precarious state of the Nigerian economy, especially unpaid salaries of workers in the states, the Federal Government yesterday announced another loan package of N90 billion for states. This is coming some 18 months after over N500 billion was dispensed as financial bailout to 27 states facing financial challenges. A bond is a debt investment in which an investor loans money to an entity (typically corporate or governmental), which borrows the funds for a defined period of time at a variable or fixed interest rate. While the July 2015 bailout had no condition attached, the N90 billion loan package announced yesterday by the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, which would be accessed through bond, comes with 22 stringent conditions that states must meet before they access the funds. She spoke to journalists after a closed-door session with states' commissioners for finance. The minister explained that the state governors had been earlier briefed on the Fiscal Sustainability Plan (FSP) at a separate session. The new package is coming on the heels of states' indebtedness to the state civil servants and local contractors. Currently, the Federal Government is borrowing an average of N600 billion annually to augment payment of workers’ salaries. Shedding more light

on the package, the Finance Minister said the loan would come in two tranches – N50 billion for three months to be shared across all the participating 36 states, and N40 billion for nine months. Each state would get an average of about N1.6 billion, she said. Explaining that the fresh N90 billion package is not a bailout, but a repayable loan, Adeosun said the overall aim of FSP is to support states to overcome current fiscal challenges whilst reforming financial management to ensure their long-term viability. The five key strategic objectives of FSP listed by the minister, which states desirous of accessing the loan must possess include, improvement in accountability and transparency, increase in public revenue, rationalisation of public expenditure to improve public financial management and sustainable debt management. The minister said: "The first thing to say is that this is not a bailout. It is very important everybody understands this. It is definitely not a bailout. The bailout was done last year July and there were no conditions attached. This is a loan we have secured from the private sector and it has conditions attached to it. “So, it is actually a loan to be repaid and not a bailout. What I mean by paying the price is that when you want to borrow money, the lender sets some conditions and these conditions are very stringent. There are 22 of them and I think all of you have the fiscal sustainability plan. "Government unanimously approved the plan

Badeh paid N650m cash for Abuja property, witness insists Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

ormer Director of Finance and Account of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore Abdullahi Yushau (rtd), yesterday insisted that he made N650 million cash available for the payment for Plot 1386, Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja where a shopping

The number of Premier League clubs of the 20 clubs that failed to post a profit in 2014-15. Source: Soccernet.com

748,000

The number of people receiving antiretroviral therapy in East, South and South-East Asia in December 2009. Source: Who.int

mall was constructed for the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh. Yushau, who is the Prosecution Witness 4, told the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja that he stands by his statement to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with regard to the payment. The Federal Government is prosecuting Badeh for allegedly converting of about N3.97 billion of NAF to his personal use. The anti-graft agency accused Badeh of using the funds to buy and develop landed assets in Abuja for himself and his two sons between January and December 2013. The court later adjourned till today for continuation of cross-examination.

and you know it is going to involve a lot of work. The states have to clean up the ghost workers, they have to set up efficiency unit; they have to reduce the recurrent expenditure, they have to publish their accounts; they have to publish their budget. There are lots of very tough conditions. “What I mean by paying the price is, governors and commissioners believe that these reforms are necessary if they want the reforms to be fiscally sustainable," she said. On whether government has imbibed the spirit of fiscal federalism with the new stance that each state must develop ways of self-sustenance, she said: "Every state must be viable. We cannot have a situation where states are sole dependent on the federation account. Once the federation account is down, they cannot survive. We have to make sure that within each state, whatever local advantage they have, they exploit it. So, if they have private sector, for example, they can collect taxes from them, if there is none, there is agricultural produce, which can be exploited and the states can use that to generate revenue. “Maybe there is natural resources, which can be exploited and the states can use that to generate revenue. What we are saying is that every single state is a centre of prosperity. Every state should go and look for what and what to exploit to improve its internally generated revenue. “State must be disciplined to make sure it can pay its own salaries, clean out ghost workers, remove wasteful spending so that as the economy improves, governance also improves. There are no federal people. Everybody lives in a state. So, every state has to be viable and that is what fiscal

sustainability plan will do.” Adeosun said the government recognised the critical importance of developing a broad-based economy, with productive activities in every region and state. She said: "We must ensure that the necessary conditions for growth are firmly put in place. We are working to achieve this through investment in enabling infrastructure and reforms in the ease of doing business, which will spur growth and development in the private, as well as public sectors. “At federal level, to create headroom for the urgently needed investment in infrastructure, we are pursuing a very disciplined approach to managing public funds, ensuring the maximisation of revenues

and the minimisation of the costs of governance.” The minister said the adoption of FSP by states would replicate the farreaching public financial management reform programme across all tiers of government, a development she said would mark a turning point in the management of state finances. By raising the standard for public financial management in the areas of transparency, accountability and efficiency, states will be repositioned to embark on a path towards fiscal independence, she added. On the cost side, she said: "The pressure is to cut costs, starting with the commitment to eliminate, once and for all the menace of ghost workers by BVN checking of payroll and the requirement that

all salary payments are made directly to the individual accounts. This will enable states to control the size of their wage bill and ensure that it is affordable. The formal commitments being made to improve expense management, greater efficiency in recurrent spending and prudent debt management, will combine to ensure that states can move towards improved long term financial health." Responding on behalf of the state commissioners, Jigawa State Commissioner for Finance, Mallam Umar Namadi, pledged states’ readiness to key into FSP project. He described FSP as the only viable option that will remove states from their present financial predicament.

L-R: Fleet Manager, Lufthansa Technik, Mike Ronneberger; Deputy Managing Director, Arik Air, Captain Ado Sanusi and Director, Line Maintenance Network & Tech Ops Management, Lufthansa Technik Maintenance International, Jurgen Hupe, during the visit of Lufthansa Technik Director to Arik corporate headquarters in Lagos…yesterday

Budget: FG releases N280bn for capital projects Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

he Federal Government yesterday confirmed the release of N280 billion as part of N350 billion earmarked for the implementation of capital projects captured in the 2016 budget. The N280 billion released, government said, was for execution of capital projects that had been scrutinised as ongoing. Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Hajia Zainab Ahmed, confirmed the release yesterday in Abuja. Ahmed spoke at a oneday workshop organised by a civic technology\organ-

isation, BudgIT Nigeria, for the review and implementation of the budget. Ministries of Works, Housing and Power; Agriculture; Interior; Education; Information and Environment were enlisted in the first phase of the disbursement. According to her, names of 60 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have been forwarded to the finance ministry for approval. Unlike previous dispensations when releases were carried out with little or no screening, she said disbursement of funds would be tied to projects captured in the budget. She added that another batch of about 30 MDAs

whose screening process had been concluded would be sent to the finance ministry today. "The release of the N350 billion is on-going but of course, as I presented, we were not releasing budgets based on one quarter allocation. We needed to scrutinise the process. It took some time but we have sent about N280 billion for projects that have been scrutinised. “As I said earlier on, the release will be done for specific projects. Our concentration was on projects that are ongoing, except for a few exceptional circumstances; we are not releasing funds for any new projects. We have reviewed their projects, approved

them and have sent them to the ministry of finance. We have sent to the ministry of finance up to about 50 MDAs or 60, but I can tell you that Works, Housing, Power, Agriculture, Interior, Education, Information and Environment are part of the ministries that we have sent to finance," said the minister. She said the blowing up of oil installations by militants in the oil-rich Niger Delta has impacted negatively on government revenue Earlier, the Leader of BudgIT, Oluseun Onigbinde, lamented that implementation of capital projects had not gone beyond 30 per cent over the years.

WEDNESday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Central Bank of Nigeria www.cbn.gov.ng In furtherance of the transparency and full disclosure stance of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Monetary Policy Committee has decided that henceforth the lending rates obtainable in all Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) be made public to guide business decisions. Consequently, find below the applicable rates for each of the DMBs as at June 10, 2016. The rates will also be available on the website of the Central Bank of Nigeria. Average Deposit and Lending Rates as at June 10, 2016 Deposit Rate S/N

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

NAME OF BANK

Access Bank Citi Bank Nigeria Coronation Merchant Bank Diamond Bank Ecobank Nigeria FCMB Fidelity Bank First Bank of Nigeria FBN Merchant Bank FSDH Merchant Bank Guaranty Trust Bank Heritage Bank Keystone Bank Ltd Rand Merchant Bank Nig. Ltd Skye Bank Stanbic IBTC Bank Standard Chartered Bank Sterling Bank Union Bank United Bank for Africa Unity Bank Wema Bank Zenith Bank

Demand Savings Deposit Deposit Ave.Int Rate 0.05 0.90 0.46 0.01 0.65 2.00 -

Ave.Int Rate 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.30 3.60 3.60 -

0.70 0.51 1.29 0.02 0.50 1.68 0.75 0.67 0.50

3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.58 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60

Lending Rate Time Deposit Ave.Int Rate 6.47 2.68 7.52 6.02 5.16 8.00 6.50 6.65 7.52 7.78 6.18 9.00 8.40 5.92 8.55 5.77 4.75 6.03 6.80 6.00 9.00 6.50 5.00

Agriculture Prime

Max.

Mining & Quarrying Prime

Max.

7.00 16.00 14.00 14.00 20.00 6.00 6.00 9.00 -

25.00 21.00 24.00 22.00 27.00 27.00 28.00 27.00 -

16.00 14.00 17.00 21.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 -

21.00 24.00 25.00 24.00 21.00 28.00 27.00 -

12.00 23.00 n/a 9.00 5.50 16.00 7.00 26.50 7.00 24.00 9.00 17.00

20.00 26.00 n/a 28.00 28.00 25.00 26.00 26.50 25.00 30.00 25.00 19.00

16.00 19.00 28.00 16.00 17.00 19.00 26.50 24.00 24.00 17.00

16.00 30.00 31.00 27.00 17.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 23.00

Deposit Rate S/N

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

NAME OF BANK

Demand Savings Deposit Deposit Ave.Int Rate 0.05 0.90 0.46 0.01 0.65 2.00 -

Ave.Int Rate 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.30 3.60 3.60 -

0.70 0.51 1.29 0.02 0.50 1.68 0.75 0.67 0.50

3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.58 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60

Oil & Gas Prime 16.00 16.00 14.00 17.00 17.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 9.13 14.00 9.50 23.00 19.00 28.00 16.00 14.50 19.00 26.50 19.00 24.00 27.00 17.00

Max. 29.00 21.00 24.00 25.00 28.00 28.00 28.00 28.00 15.06 17.00 23.00 26.00 30.00 31.00 27.00 25.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 27.00 24.00

Manufacturing Prime 7.00 16.00 14.00 17.00 17.00 7.00 19.00 20.00 15.75 14.00 11.50 23.00 19.00 14.30 28.00 12.50 14.00 19.00 26.50 19.00 24.00 27.00 17.00

Max. 25.00 21.00 24.00 25.00 24.00 26.50 28.00 28.00 15.75 17.00 23.00 27.00 30.00 17.25 31.00 27.00 25.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 27.00 22.00

Real Estate & Const Prime 12.00 16.00 14.00 17.00 17.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 15.00 14.00 13.00 23.00 19.00 28.00 16.00 18.00 19.00 26.50 24.00 24.00 27.00 17.00

Max. 25.00 21.00 24.00 25.00 28.00 25.50 28.00 27.00 19.00 17.00 22.00 27.00 30.00 31.00 26.00 25.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 28.00 24.00

Lending Rate Time Deposit Ave.Int Rate 6.47 2.68 7.52 6.02 5.16 8.00 6.50 6.65 7.52 7.78 6.18 9.00 8.40 5.92 8.55 5.77 4.75 6.03 6.80 6.00 9.00 6.50 5.00

General Comm. Prime

Max.

12.00 16.00 14.00 17.00 17.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 14.00 12.00 23.00 21.00 27.00 13.75 14.50 19.00 26.50 24.00 24.00 27.00 17.00

29.00 21.00 24.00 26.00 28.00 30.00 28.00 27.00 17.00 23.00 29.00 30.00 31.00 28.00 25.00 27.00 29.00 29.00 30.00 28.00 27.00

Mortgage Prime

Max.

13.00 14.00 17.00 14.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 -

25.00 24.00 25.00 26.75 19.95 28.00 30.00 -

13.00 23.00 19.00 28.00 16.00 18.00 19.00 26.50 24.00 24.00 27.00 17.00

24.00 26.00 30.00 31.00 26.00 18.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 27.00 23.00

Transp. & Comm. Prime 13.00 16.00 14.00 17.00 16.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 9.78 14.00 10.90 23.00 19.00 11.75 28.00 16.00 14.00 19.00 26.50 19.00 24.00 27.00 17.00

Max. 27.00 21.00 24.00 25.00 28.00 23.50 28.00 27.00 22.00 17.00 21.00 28.00 30.00 11.75 31.00 27.00 25.00 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 29.00 25.00

Fin. & Ins. Prime 10.00 16.00 14.00 17.00 21.00 17.50 19.00 20.00 19.00 14.00 15.00 23.00 21.00 28.00 13.75 18.00 19.00 26.50 19.00 24.00 27.00 17.00

Max. 25.00 21.00 24.00 25.00 28.00 25.50 28.00 27.00 19.00 17.00 20.00 26.00 30.00 31.00 27.00 18.50 27.00 28.50 29.00 30.00 27.00 24.00

Govt. Prime

Max.

8.00 14.00 17.00 15.00 17.50 19.00 19.00 14.00

18.00 24.00 23.00 19.00 23.00 28.00 28.00 16.00

12.50 9.00 21.00 9.00 14.00 16.00 19.00 26.50 24.00 24.00 27.00 17.00

18.00 9.00 30.00 28.00 24.00 16.00 27.00 26.50 29.00 30.00 26.00 24.00

These are the interest rates banks charge the public on loans and advances. It reflects the cost of borrowings and also includes all charges and commissions levied by banks. Signed:

Management

NEWS

WEDNESday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Diezani to EFCC: It’s not a crime to own property, jewellery

Emmanuel Onani Abuja

former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani AlisonMadueke, has taken a swipe at a report aired on Al-Jazeera, which she said portrayed her as a corrupt person. The former minister, while describing the report as "ridiculous and despicable", alleged that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), was carrying out a "campaign of calumny" against her, ostensibly to demonstrate the effectiveness of the current administration's anti-corruption fight. In the report, which video is circulating in the social media space, AlisonMadueke was alleged to own a mansion in the Asokoro District of Abuja estimated to have cost about $18 million. It was also alleged that jewelleries worth over $2 million were allegedly recovered from the house; the jewelleries were said to have been displayed in the video.

But, in a statement, the ex-minister regretted that she was being labelled a corrupt person, notwithstanding the fact that no court has tried and convicted her of any offence. The former minister said there was no crime in owning property and jewellery. "When did it become a crime to own a property in Nigeria? When did it become a crime for a woman of my status to have in her possession, jewellery women all across the world, including the woman selling tomatoes in Bodija market has in abundance in her closet? “In which court of law, anywhere in the world was I prosecuted by the EFCC and found guilty of corruption? "With all sense of modesty, I have strived within my means and the blessings of God to live a decent and accomplished life. "All through my career, I have strived to maintain a record of hard work, integrity and excellence, giving my best to society, because my parents raised me in the consciousness that a man or woman’s greatness is defined not by the amount of

wealth they have acquired, but the impact of their service to God and humanity.” The former minister said she was pained by the damage to her reputation given her health challenges. "Coming at such a critical time in my life when I am battling cancer, this poorly executed propaganda bares on its face like tribal marks, a clearly malicious attempt to victimise an innocent woman in what appears an exaggerated plot to validate and give credibility to the anticorruption crusade under Nigeria’s new regime. "People who are battling cancer or those who have lost their loved ones to this medical condition understand what I am going through at this time. This is what makes me ponder at the cold-heartedness of those who will go any length to defame and destroy in the name of propaganda. What happened to our shared humanity? "I have absolute regard for the law and believe that people who have breached the laws that govern societies should be made to face the wrath of the law. But in a civilized society, a responsible government owes its

citizens absolute commitment to the principles of rule of law, equity, fairness and justice. I have been wrongfully and maliciously maligned and those behind this reckless action know it," she said. She said the depiction in the report is suggestive that every wealthy person in Nigeria may have corruptly enriched themselves. Her words: "In the video report, which has been widely circulated in the social media, there are claims about me owning a property in Abuja allegedly worth $18 million. The report, which represents everything ridiculous and despicable about professional media practice and global best practices in the war against corruption, is the latest attempt to give a dog a bad name in order to hang it. Clips of jewellery allegedly worth over $2 million were also copiously displayed as if to feed the cravings of an audience gratified with the notion that every wealthy Nigeria is corrupt. "This will not be the first time calculated attempts have been made to demonise and damage my reputation in the public space.

Some of the sacked immigration officers protesting in Abuja... yesterday.

Nigeria's May inflation rises above six-year high Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

igeria's Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures inflation on monthly basis, accelerated to 15.6 per cent in May, its highest since February 2010, further deepening the country’s economic woes. Yesterday's inflation reading was the fourth monthly increase in a row, which the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said it reflected higher prices for electricity, transport and food, a separate index for which rose to 14.9 per cent from 13.2 per cent in April. "The increase in rates in May relative to April reflects an overall increase in

general price level across the economy," the NBS said. The May figure was 1.9 per cent point higher than 13.7 per cent April figure. The NBS noted: “After a brief respite in rates in March and April, the rates recorded by headline index increased at a faster pace in May. The index increased by 2.8%, up by 1.1% points relative to rates recorded in April." The agency buttressed its finding of all inclusive price increases, stating that both urban and rural indices were not spared from price increases. “On year on year, both urban and rural indices recorded marked increased for the fourth consecutive month in May. The urban index rose by roughly 2.1%

points from 15.1% to 17.1%, while the rural index increased by 1.6% points from 12.8% in April to 14.3% in May. “On a month-on-month basis, both the urban and rural indices increased at a faster pace. The urban index increased by 0.8% points from 2.2% in April to 3.0% in May. In addition, the rural index increased by roughly 1.1% points from 1.4% in April to 2.4% in May." NBS noted. On food component, NBS said that on a monthon-month basis, the highest price increases were recorded in the bread and cereals; vegetables, and “sugar, jam, honey, chocolate and confectionery groups. “The average annual rate of change of the Food

sub-index for the 12-month period ending in May 2016 over the previous 12-month average was 11.2%, 0.4% points from the average annual rate of change recorded in April,” the report stated. Nigeria’s revenues have continued to plunge with oil price, which has exerted pressure on the naira, helping to fuel inflation.

1.12m

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

The life expectancy of men at age 60 years of Denmark in 2010-2015. Source: Un.org

Many times, my detractors have gotten away with these irresponsible smear campaigns because they have become used to my characteristic approach of silence in the face of these callous attacks. "The latest in the string of propaganda attacks launched against my person since I left government as Nigeria’s Petroleum Minister is this Al Jazeera report, which without any court conviction anywhere in world attempts to dress Diezani Alison-Madueke in the garb of a common criminal. This, to say the least, is the height of jour-

nalistic brigandage and a sheer mockery of Nigeria’s anti-corruption war before the eyes of the world who are watching and asking if the war against corruption is a circus show where suspects are prosecuted and sentenced on the pages of newspapers and video blogs without anything as remotely in the semblance of a trial in the courts of law?” Waxing philosophical, Deziani said she would leave her traducers "to posterity, their conscience and above all the Almighty God who is the final judge of all."

EFCC raids Obanikoro’s residence, impounds vehicles CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

due course. The raid came days after several ministers that served in the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan were arrested by the anti-graft agency, in connection with campaign funds. Earlier this year, it was alleged that EFCC received evidence linking Obanikoro with the infamous Ekiti election scandal of June 2014 and the related plot to rig the Osun State gubernatorial election. “I can, however, confirm that our men carried out an operation in Obanikoro’s residence. The raid was just part of an ongoing investigation involving Obanikoro and his two sons,” Uwujaren said. Asked why Obanikoro is being investigated, he added: “I can’t go into that now. The investigation has been going on for a long time. I don’t know and can’t say whether it was before or after elections, but it had been on for some time.” The EFCC spokesman also refused to say whether the raid was connected to money laundering. “At the right time, you will get to know the details.” Reacting to the incident, Obanikoro alleged that EFCC operatives stormed his residence in a “Gestapo like manner.” In a statement made available to New Telegraph, Obanikoro’s media aide, Jonathan Eze, alleged that the EFCC officials “for no just cause, harassed occupants of the building, who were majorly kids, teenagers, wife and daughter-inlaws of Obanikoro”. According to him, they also took away cars, wristwatches and other valuables from the house. He said: “The anti-graft agency has never invited him or his sons for questioning beyond the tirades and allegations they have been propagating using the media spaces. We are using

this medium to draw attention of all Nigerians to yet another infringement on the fundamental and inalienable rights of the Obanikoro family. “Lovers of freedom should not wait until our democracy is put at irreversible damage. The list of human rights violations and political persecution has reached an alarming rate.” Eze described the raid as plot by the administration to persecute its perceived opponents. He added: “To our chagrin, the vehicles driven away were cars and trucks bought since 2006 and thereabout when Senator Obanikoro served as an ambassador in Ghana, among others, which obviously have no bearing with the purported investigation they are supposedly carrying out. “We condemn in strong terms the brigandage and the idea of inflicting trauma on innocent dependents and violating their privacies without recourse to the rule of law.” Eze said that Obanikoro had already consulted with his lawyers and was prepared to meet the EFCC in court to stop the intrusion and persecution. There were reports that the EFCC was investigating two of Obanikoro’s sons: Babajide and Gbolahan. They were alleged to be directors and signatories to a Diamond Bank account, belonging to Sylvan McNamara Limited. The former National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), was alleged to have paid about N4.75 billion into the account. The transfer occurred between June and December 2014. The payments were allegedly made without any contract. The periods of transfer coincided with the preparation for and the conduct of the Ekiti State gubernatorial election, which ushered in the current administration of Governor Ayodele Fayose.

NEWS

WEDNESday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Yar'Adua, Jonathan never took charge of military –Report …Nigeria’s Armed Forces in distress Onwuka Nzeshi ABUJA

he current state of insecurity in Nigeria has been blamed on the lack of political leadership of late President Umar Musa Yar Adua and his successor, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, to take full charge of the military during their combined eight-year tenure. A damning report released by the International Crisis Group (ICG) revealed that though the two leaders were presidents at some point, they were never Commanders-in-Chief in the strict sense of it. The report described Nigeria’s military as an institution in distress having been among Africa’s strongest and a mainstay of regional peacekeeping, but has become a "flawed force." The ICG said that whereas the Nigeria Army suffered varying degrees of neglect during the long period of military rule, the

situation was worsened by the lack of effective political leadership during the YarAdua/ Jonathan years. It said that whereas the Nigerian Constitution makes the president, the Commander-in-Chief, Yar’Adua and Jonathan "never rose to that responsibility" due to their lack of familiarity with the military and their failure to learn on the job. During their tenures, the report said, the duo failed to convene regular meetings of the National Security Council (NSC) or the National Defence Council (NDC), from which they could have drawn the much-needed advice and support. The report acknowledged that though Yar’Adua was terminally ill and was in no position to provide the necessary leadership before his death, Jonathan "was out of his depth on defence matters" and less involved with leading and managing the military than his predecessors. It said that Jonathan,

who initially raised hopes of reform of the security apparatus, could not see it through probably because the reform agenda was rapidly overshadowed by the Boko Haram insurgency that plagued much of his tenure. ICG, an independent, non-profit, non-governmental organisation committed to preventing and resolving deadly conflicts, made this assertion in its latest report on Nigeria. The 27-page report, titled “Nigeria: The Challenge of Military Reform”, beamed a searchlight on the Nigerian Armed Forces, revealing a plethora of challenges which resulted in a steady decline of its

strength and value over the last 50 years. The report is based on interviews with serving and retired military officers at various locations in the country, including personnel involved in operations in the North-East and the Niger Delta. It also made use of information gathered from defence scholars in research institutions and diplomats in Abuja. The report also lashed out at the National Assembly, accusing it of not being an effective steward of national security. "In the years immediately after return to democratic rule, most legislators were largely ignorant of their basic law-making, appropriation and oversight

duties. Capacity developed gradually and is still very limited. Poor oversight allowed rot in the armed forces to deepen. For instance, parliament never knew it was constitutionally mandated to scrutinise security chief nominees before confirmation until a court awakened it to the responsibility in 2013. Failure to track how appropriated funds were used by military chiefs also contributed to the environment of corruption and abuse. "Corruption, a serious problem across the public service, is a major contributor to the military’s decline and loss of standing in society. It percolates through all levels of the defence establishment and

manifests itself in diverse forms. At the National Assembly, legislators are accused of manipulating the appropriations process to serve private purposes. Legislative committees have also reportedly used oversight visits to military facilities and projects by committees to extort funds from service chiefs and other commanders in exchange for favourable reports," ICG said. In view of the daunting challenges facing the Nigeria Armed Forces, the report tasked President Muhammadu Buhari to set in motion processes that could lead to the formulation and implementation of a comprehensive defence sector reform in Nigeria.

APC: We've no business with your crisis CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

national convention that can cancel and postpone its proceedings. No individual or other organ of the party can postpone or cancel the national convention," he said. But, Bwala alleged that some members of PDP attended a meeting with some governors of opposition, trying to form a new party out of both the PDP and APC. "Ali Sheriff is so big to be a stooge of anybody. Ali Sheriff is richer than many of them supporting Makarfi. "Ali Sheriff left APC on principle. Since he left APC, he has never had any dealing with any member of APC. "I challenge them to mention when the meeting was held, where was the meeting held, who were present at the meeting and what was the agenda?" he said. APC National Secretary, Mai Mala Buni, stated that the ruling party has no hand in the crisis in the opposition party. Buni, in a statement, stated that the problem with the PDP members has to do with their past.

1,425

The number of refugees and people in refugee-like situation assisted by UNHCR in Cuba at the beginning of 2010. Source: Blatantworld.com

He said: "For the umpteenth time, the APC wishes to state that instead of joining issues with the baseless and laughable allegations, the APC would rather join issues that will bring about all-inclusive development in the country. "However, it should be put on record that the PDP forced on them whatever crisis it is troubled with today due to its politics of imposition and other undemocratic practices which the APC abhors. “The PDP should put its house in order rather than playing to the gallery and blaming others but themselves for their sins which has come to haunt them. Also, it is evident that the PDP has chosen to employ diversionary tactics because of its inability to produce credible candidates for the forthcoming elections in Edo and Ondo states." Meanwhile, the Board of Trustees (BoT), the PDP Governors' Forum and the party caucus in the National Assembly will meet today over the development in the party. Director General of the PDP Governors' Forum, Osaro Onaiwu, in a statement yesterday, said the purpose of the meeting was to find a lasting solution to the crisis bedevilling the party. He, however, said Sheriff was not invited to the meeting.

Managing Director, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr. Bayo Onanuga (left), with the Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ibrahim Magu, during Onanuga's visit to EFCC headquarters in Abuja …yesterday

Zakyzaky under protective custody, says FG Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

he Federal Government yesterday said the leader of the Shi’ite Islamic sect, Sheikh Ibraheem El Zakzaky, is currently placed under protective custody and not in detention as being claimed by him. Zakyzaky, through his counsel, Femi Falana (SAN), had filed a N2 billion suit against the Fed-

eral Government over his unlawful detention and breach of his fundamental human rights. When the matter was called yesterday, counsel to the applicant, Festus Okoye told the court that all the respondents have been duly served with the processes in relation to the matter, including hearing notice of the day’s sitting. He added that while the first and third respondents in the suit have replied, the second respondent was yet

No impending retirement of AVMs, Air Commodores – NAF

he Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has denied a report on planned retirement of officers from the service. Director of Public Relations and Information of NAF, Ayodele Famuyiwa, a group captain, said the story was unfounded and did not emanate from NAF. “The publication alleged that NAF is on the verge of retiring a number of senior officers connected with the ongoing inves-

tigation of arms purchase under the immediate past administration. “It is pertinent to state that this story is unfounded and did not emanate from NAF.’’ New Telegraph had on Monday reported that some Air Vice Marshals and Air Commodores indicted in the report of the Presidential Audit Committee of arms procurement between 2007 and 2015 will be retired by the NAF.

to reply. In a brief ruling, the trial judge, Justice Gabriel Kolawole granted the motion as prayed by the applicant and adjourned the matter till July 13 for hearing of the applicant’s suit. Respondents in the suit are the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Police Force. Speaking with journalists after the adjournment, counsel to the Federal Government, Tijani Gazali explained that El-Zakzaky is a vulnerable person and, as such, is being held under protective custody. Also briefing journalists, counsel to the applicant stated that one of the issues they needed time to resolve is the claim by the DSS that their client is being held in custody willingly. According to him, “We have filed our application asking for the release of our client who is being held by the DSS. As at the last adjournment, none of the respondents filed any process, but yesterday the

DSS and AGF responded and in their counter-affidavit, they claimed to be holding our client in protective custody for his own benefit. "These are some of the things we want to find out because at our last meeting, he never said he was being held in protective custody for his own benefit.” Responding to question whether El-Zakzaky consented to his being held in protective custody, having asked the court for his release, the government’s counsel maintained that one does not need to ask for such protection. He added that it is the duty of the state to protect. “Once you are vulnerable, the state would protect you. El-Zakzaky is not in detention. He is under protective custody and is well taken care of where he is,” Gazali said. It will be recalled that Zakzaky’s arrest and detention followed a violent clash that occurred at Zaria in Kaduna State on December 14, 2015, between his followers and detachments of the Nigerian Army accompanying the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. TY Buratai.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

METRO

ABIODUN BELLO abiodun.bello@newtelegraphonline.com 08023938212

...CRIME, CITY WATCH, COURTS

OJB Jezreel planning 50th birthday –Widow

Okungbowa(OJB)

Dapo Sotuminu

opular Nigerian music producer, Babatunde Okugbowa (49), fondly called by his showbiz moniker, OJB Jezreel, died yesterday at 9am from complications from complete kidney failure. He died about three weeks to his 50th birthday. His first wife, Mabel, said her husband thought he would live to mark his 50th birthday on July 4. She said: “He had already started planning for his 50th birthday and he said he would die a fulfilled man if God allowed him to clock 50, but he died without achieving that. God knows best.” OJB, who had a kidney transplant in 2013, from the one donated by Mabel, had unstable health condition in the last one year as his body system started rejecting the new kidney despite using all prescribed medications. It was learnt that the failure of OJB’s kidney became more

Mable(right) and sympathisers... yesterday Photo:Tony Eguaye

complicated a month ago, when he started having dialysis twice a week. This was against the previous situation where he had dialysis once a week. This situation became worrisome to the music star as his budget for dialysis increased from N35,000 per session every week to N70,000, the cost of two. This new development was a difficult

one for the ace producer who found it hard to pay the bills as he was not active again professionally. He relied so much on the goodwill of his friends who were determined to ensure he overcame the difficult situation. OJB’s health took a dip for the worst last week when his breathing deteriorated and he started going for dialysis

on a daily basis. At this point Mabel became worried and scared that, there was a possibility that OJB might not survive this time around. She told our correspondent that at this point she could not keep her husband out of sight as she had to monitor his breathing every minute to be sure he was still alive. Mabel added that she could

not even open her mini-supermarket just in front of the house, as she had to apply the mini-oxygen tube on him regularly to avoid letting him pass out. She said: “Feeding at this point was also difficult for my husband as he completely lost his appetite and could not talk again. Communication became very tough and I knew that if OJB could not talk on pressing matters affecting the country that means his condition was very critical. “He was someone who loved to talk and make comments on thing happening around him, but for him not to have the strength to talk, it was a critical condition.” Mabel disclosed that she had to rush her husband to a private hospital in Lagos, very early yesterday morning since the General Hospital at Gbagada, where he used to have his dialysis, was on strike. At the hospital, he was quickly placed on oxygen and admitted to the emergency ward for quick treatment, but his condition worsened by the minutes as the doctors said his entire body system had shut down and while trying to revive him he gave up the ghost at 9am. OJB is survived by three wives, June, Korede, Mabel (Mama J) and eight children. The remains of music producer have been deposited at the Isolo General Hospital morgue. At the house located on 4, Gbaja Street off Akerele, Surulere, Lagos, sympathisers, friends and relatives trooped in to identify with the family.

SARS men arrested for killing ASP Court remands Col Inusa’s suspected killers Juliana Francis

Ibraheem Musa

he Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase, yesterday said that operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Bayelsa State Police Command, who killed an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Mathew Akpos, had been arrested. According to Arase, all the policemen linked with the killing of the officer have been arrested, detained and are presently undergoing investigation for subsequent prosecution. Akpos was allegedly killed by officials of SARS earlier this month. Aggrieved citizens embarked on a huge protest over Akpos’ murder. Arase, urged Nigerians to be calm. He added that police authorities have intervened in the matter to ensure that justice was served. The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Olabisi Kolawole, said: “Upon the receipt of the information, the IG immediately directed that the matter be investigated to ensure jus-

Kaduna

IG, Arase

tice is served. “The IG called on the family and friends of the deceased officer to remain calm and patient as the police authorities will not relent in their efforts to ensure professionalism in carrying out their constitutional assignment.”

Kaduna Chief Magistrates’ Court yesterday remanded in prison custody the suspected killers of Colonel Samaila Inusa until July 21 when the case comes for hearing Inusa was murdered three months ago, when the accused snatched his vehicle. The chief magistrate, Emmanuel Yusuf of court 1, Kaduna, who issued the remand order, said his court did not have the right to try them. The accused, Emeka Okeke, Precious Ebele, Ibrahim Kabir and Chidioke Opehi as well as Dan Sokoto who is now at large allegedly shot and killed the victim. Okeke, Ebele, Kabir and Opehi were arrested on March 26. The Army officer was murdered while his body was dumped in the bush around the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Kaduna. The accused went away with his Mercedes Benz Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV). The accused said they sold the vehicle for N800,000 and shared the proceeds before they were arrested.

After reading the allegations levelled against the accused, Yusuf said his court lackd the jurisdiction to try them. He said: “I don’t have the right to charge you. I am just to let you understand the allegations levelled against you and advise Chief Judge of Kaduna State. “This case is hereby adjourned till 21st July 2016, for hearing while the accused be remanded in prison.” Police prosecutor, Kenneth Dika, said the accused would be charged for criminal conspiracy, illegal possession of firearms, kidnapping and culpable homicide.

The suspected killers

METRO

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Traffic offence: Drivers will undergo psychiatric test – FRSC

Physically-challenged man, wife held for kidnapping

Babatope Okeowo Akure

olice yesterday paraded a physically-challenged man, Ayodeji Muyijimi, and his wife, Camillus Nnaji Adebimpe, for being behind a series of kidnapping in Ondo State in the last ederal Road Safety Commission couple of months. (FRSC) yesterday said that drivers The state Police Commissioner, Mrs. caught driving against traffic would Hilda Harrison, said yesterday that the henceforth be subjected to a compul- Muyijimis were also behind two reverend sory psychiatric examination. sisters, Perpetual Apo and Roseline FamiThe Zonal Commander, RS2. Lagos/ lade, and their driver, Mr. Zwugwa Zibai, Ogun Command, ACM Charles Akpa- on Benin-Sagamu Expressway at Kajola bio, disclosed in Lagos, during the 2016 village in Odigbo Local Government Area second quarter retreat of FRSC officers. of the state in May. Akpabio said the zone had zero tolerAlready, a suspect, Philip Isiga, has ance for traffic offenders like driving been arrested in connection with Apo and against traffic, over speeding, answer- Familade’s abduction. Isiga was paraded Abducted: Apo and Familade ing phone calls while driving, over load- along with some other suspects at the state ing, use of overdue tyres and wrongful Police Command Headquarters in Akure, overtaking. the state capital, at the weekend. ly participate in the kidnappings owing ment at an undisclosed hospital. The zonal commander cautioned the Harrison said the couple were arrested to his health condition but he was giving Harrison said the couple confessed to motoring public that “the road is patient at Okitipupa in Okitipupa Local Govern- out information about their victims to be members of the gang which abducted ment Area of the state. but doesn’t forgive”. other members of the gang while his wife, two reverend sisters and their driver in He said: “We have moved to ensure She said the couple had confessed to Adebimpe, kept the arms and ammuni- May. stricter conformity to traffic laws the crime. She said: “The same gang of kidnaption the members used for the abductions. The commissioner said they would be through our collaborative approach with The gang was allegedly led by Godwin pers, armed with dangerous weapons, was state-based traffic agencies. arraigned in court as soon as the police Ufoma, who had also been arrested by the the one that kidnapped one Oluwatimile“Henceforth, those drivers who decide concluded investigation on the matter. police, but was currently receiving treat- hin Olatunji in Okitipupa but the victim to ply against traffic would not only be It was learnt that Ayodeji did not activelater escaped.” prosecuted, but be subjected to psychiatric test. If a VIP (Very Important Personality) driver contravenes the law, he should be apprehended and subjected to the test. The roads are no respecter of Persons Who Inject Drugs Juliana Francis persons.” (PWIDs), however, constituted The retreat tagged: “Re-strategizing one of the most at risk groups ational Drug Enforceto meet 2016 strategic goals in Lagos / for HIV infections in Nigeria. ment Agency (NDLEA) Ogun RS2 zone,” according to Akpabio, She added: “NDLEA beyesterday revealed that was organised to review activities of the tween 2010 and 2014 covered this year’s world Drug Day commission while making projections an average of 1,000 schools anwould focus on adolescents on areas that require improvement. nually in drug use prevention and how to use parents to enlightenment.” check drug abuse among A director in the Office of youths. the National Security Adviser This was declared at (NSA), Mr. Isaac Idu, said that NDLEA Ikoyi’s office, the the office of the NSA would Inter-Ministerial Committee NDLEA officials at the meeting support the fight against drug (IMC) on drug control, as it commenced its preparation lescents. When you educate effectively address the chal- control. Corps Commander, Oladuntowards the commemoration and counsel, it goes a long lenge of drug abuse in Nigeof 2016 International Day way to help. We need to watch ria, sensitisation, advocacy ni Olaniyan and Corps Medical Rescue Officer with the Against Drug Abuse and Il- out for our kids.” and prevention programmes Federal Road Safety Commislicit Drug Trafficking holdBode-George identified remain vital.” sion (FRSC), said that the coming on June 26. synergy among stakeholdThe DG said that comThe NDLEA Director- ers as the major achievement munity-based surveys had mission was actively involved General (DG), Mrs. Roli of the current Drug Control revealed that cannabis was in drug control programmes. Olaniyan said: “FRSC is Bode-George, who presided Master Plan (NDCMP). the most produced, trafficked partnering with NDLEA beover the meeting, said the She added: “The agency and abused drug in the councause when people take drugs theme of the commemora- has recorded great success try. and drive, they constitute a tion was on evidence-based in the implementation of Heroin and cocaine use drug abuse prevention with the Drug Control Master has also been reported serious threat to lives and property.” the slogan: ‘Listen First.’ Plan. Most significant is the mainly in Lagos and other Deputy Director in the MinShe said: “We are target- high level of synergy among cosmopolitan state capitals ing adolescents at age 14. stakeholders. Drug traffick- while use of amphetamine istry of Health, Mrs. Celine Children are the most vul- ing is a thriving business type stimulants (ATS) is pre- Onunkwo said that her ministry commended the efforts of nerable. We are thinking of and a serious issue in Ni- dominant in the northern the NDLEA in reducing drug ways to enlighten and reduce geria that requires strong, part, she added. trafficking in Nigeria. intake of drugs among ado- concerted control efforts. To Akpabio Bode-George said that

NDLEA focuses on adolescents, parents N

City Briefs

Dispatch rider dies on 3rd Mainland Bridge Taiwo Jimoh

dispatch rider identified simply as Jacob died in a crash on Monday evening on the Third Mainland Bridge. Jacob’s motorcycle rammed into a stationary truck and died in the process. The father of one was said to have recently divorced his wife because of ‘irreconcilable differences’. The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Dolapo

Badmos, confirmed the man’s death. She said: “On Monday about 7:20pm a rider of a motorcycle with the registration No LSR 736 QA allegedly rammed into a stationary DAF truck with registration No XR 190 LSR on Third Mainland Bridge, inward Oworonsoki. “The victim was rushed to the hospital by the command’s operatives from Oworonsoki Division, where he was confirmed dead.”

Two arraigned for stealing 16 cows Sulaiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti

wo men, Ibrahim Mohammad (30) and Usman Haruna (26), were yesterday arraigned before an AdoEkiti Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing 16 cows. Police prosecutor, Sergeant Caleb Leranmo, told the court that the accused committed the offence on June 3 about 2am at Ilafon-Ekiti in Oye Local Government Area of Ekiti

State. Leramo said the accused, on the said date, stole 16 cows, valued at the N1 million, which was found to belong to Yusuf Abdullahi. According to the prosecutor, the offence contravened Section 390 (9) of the Criminal Code, Cap C 16, Laws of Ekiti State, 2012. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges, while their counsel, Timilehin Omotosho, prayed the court for bail on liberal terms, promising they would not

jump bail. The chief magistrate, Adesoji Adegboye, consequently granted bail to the accused in the sum of N200,000 and two sureties in like sum.

NEWS | national

wednesday, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Abdulsalami calls for dialogue on Niger Delta Dan Atori Minna

ormer Head of State, Gen. Abubakar Abdulsalami(Rtd)

yesterday urged the Federal Government to dialogue with militant groups in the Niger Delta. Abdulsalami gave the advice when he received members of the Niger

CONFIRMATION/change OF NAME

Muhammed

I, formerly known and addressed as Adam Yussuf now wish to be known and addressed as Muhammed Yusuf. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Police and general public note.

Olatunbosun

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ipka Vivian Lotachukwu now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Olatunbosun Vivian Lotachukwu. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Police and general public take note.

Okara

I, formerly known and addressed as Isu Inisaziba, now wish to be known and addressed as Okara Inisaziba. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Modebe

I, formerly known as Mrs. Modebe Celestina Ifunanya Tynaline now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Modebe Celestina Ifunanya. All former documents remain valid General public to take note.

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Inya

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Oyee

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Etukeyei

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Umar

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Dennis

This is to confirm and certify that Oyetan Adekunle Dennis and Oyetan Kunle refer to one and the same person, now wish to be known and addressed as Oyetan Adekunle Dennis. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Morris

This is to certify that my correct name is Udoh Mercy and not Mercy Morris and my date of birth is 10/9/79 and not 26/10/79 as wrongly captured in my BVN, UBA PLC All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Enegbe

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Asuquo

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Chukwuemeka

This is to confirm that the names Chukwuemeka Kelly Gabriel and Chukwuemeka Anoliefo Gabriel refer to one and the same person. That henceforth, I wish to be known and addressed as Chukwuemeka Anoliefo Gabriel. All former documents remain valid. Fidelity bank Plc and the general public should take note.

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I, formerly known and addressed as Enegesi Anikpobebi Celina now wish to be known and addressed as Celina Odiadiole Enegesi. All former documents remain valid. First bank Plc, Keystone bank Plc and the general public should take note.

PUBLIC NOTICE AKWA IBOM REFRIGERATION AND AIRCONDITIONING TECHNICIANS ASSOCIATION

The general public is hereby inform that the above named Association has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part 'C' of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Degree No. 1 of 1990. The Trustees are: 1. Okpon, Effiong Bassey 2. Johnson, Akan Okon 3. Udoumo, Uwem Ufot 4. Akpan, Sylvester Sunday 5. Asanga, Ibanga Asuquo 6. Obot, Joseph Douglas 7. Okon, Uko Edem AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote individual and collective developments of members

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. SIGNED: CHAIRMAN

State House of Assembly, who visited him on his 74th birthday in Minna. “All we need to do is to sit down on a round table and discuss these problems. “Even if you fight a war and win, you must sit down with the people you conquered. The insecurity we are going through now is uncalled for. ``For the Boko Haram, nobody knows what they want. The Avengers are now out. What are they avenging?’’ He asked. Abdulsalami decried a situation where the people are going through

hardship because of the activities of Boko Haram insurgents, Avengers and Biafra agitators. The former head of state said there was need for the avengers to understand that they were destroying their land by blowing up of oil pipes, leading to oil spillage. He said the action of the avengers had brought crude oil production to the lowest level in decades. Abdulsalami advised the avengers against vandalism, saying it would negatively affect the 13 per cent derivation accruing to the region due

High heels could damage your knees Oluwatosin Omoniyi

esearchers have discovered that wearing high heels can cause permanent knee damage. A study performed by researchers at Stanford University examined the knees of 14 healthy women as they walked around in shoes with different heel heights. The researchers found that, as heel height increased, detrimental changes took place in the subjects’ knees-changes that were similar to those seen with ageing and osteoarthritis. These changes were also seen with increasing body weight or body mass index (BMI), indicating that excess body weight also takes its toll on the knees. Add this to the damage done by wearing high heels, and these women’s knees were in trouble indeed. According to the research, patients with obesity, commonly report joint pain, especially of weight-

bearing joints such as the knees and hips. Some experts have estimated that approximately 35 per cent of people with osteoarthritis are also obese, and this adds a significant burden both in terms of functional status (getting around, being able to do everyday activities) and clinical status (of the arthritis disease process itself). Studies have shown a significant association between increased weight and osteoarthritis of the knee and of the hip, and still more research has looked at how weight-loss therapy in obese older adults can improve physical function. Researchers note that one result of weight loss is improved mobility, and a good part of this is due to less mechanical stress on the joints, with fewer symptoms of arthritis. However, the Stanford researchers found that the heel heights that really aged knee joints by as much as 20 years were those that were three inches or higher.

Northern Senators bicker over NEDC headquarters Chukwu David Abuja

enators from the NorthEast geo-political region were yesterday sharply divided over the location of the proposed North East Development Commission (NEDC) headquarters. The disagreement ensued while the Senate was considering the report of its Committee on Special Duties on the North East

change OF NAME

Anaebonam

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Chioma Noellin Ezeokoli now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Chioma Noellin Anaebonam. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Police and general public take note.

Development Commission Bill, 2016 (SB. 33 and SB. 163). Another contentious issue that halted the consideration of the report was the mode of funding for the proposed Commission. Senators observed that there was no clear cut means of funding the Commission and resolved that it must be clearly stated. The Chairman of the Committee on Special Duties, Senator Abdulazeez Nyako, had presented the report on the bill, which went through public hearing three weeks ago, urging his colleagues to approve the report, to help alleviate the suffering of the Boko Haram ravaged North eastern states.

to sharp decline in oil revenue. “I hope they will come back to their senses and let us try to give this country peace. We do not deserve what we are going through. “We need peace and I am begging everybody in the spirit of Ramadan. Whatever religion anybody is following, please let us give peace a

chance’’, he said Alhaji Ahmed Marafa, Speaker of the assembly, expressed gratitude to God for using the former head of state to restore democracy to Nigeria. Marafa described Abdulsalami as an illustrious son of the state, whose counsel had guided the assembly in legislating for good governance in the interest of the people.

Osinbajo wants standardization of agric products Anule Emmanuel Abuja

ice President Yemi Osinbajo has called on the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON), and the Export Promotion Council to begin an efficient standardization of agricultural products in the country in order to ease exportation. The Vice President stated this yesterday at the presidential villa, Abuja when he met with a delegation of Nigeria Agribusiness Group. He said, once Nigerian products were properly standardized and packaged, exporting agricultural items would become much easier as standard-

ization will promote the acceptance of such products abroad. Osinbajo said that the agencies must agree to some kind of standard which are necessary to get support for standardization of products. The Vice President said such action was the quickest way to surmount the rejection of Nigerian products by buyers of the products. “I think the first thing is that we must involve those who are buying our products, so that we are able to surmount the difficulties quickly. We should not think that so long we are okay with our products here, others out there can accept,” he noted.

NNPC announces completion, commission of gas projects Johnchuks Onuanyim Abuja

he Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, has announced that power supply would improve in few months as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation has completed the forecasted and commissioned four gas projects. The assurance of the Ministry came in a statement issued by the Special Adviser, Communication to the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Hakeem Bello. In the statement that was issued after the sixth monthly meeting

of the power sector operators that held in Kano State, Bello also stated that the Transmission Company of Nigeria has completed 20 projects in Gwagwalada, Kaduna, Afam, Apo, Lekki and Omotosho. He said: "A total of 855 million standard cubic feet (mmsfcd) of gas is expected to be added to the domestic gas supply in the short term in the next few months, following the forecasted completion and commissioning of four infrastructure projects by Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) and International Oil Companies (IOCs)."

Lufthansa monitors Nigeria’s currency crisis Wole Shadare

ufthansa Deutsche Lufthansa AG said it is closely monitoring its flights to Nigeria as the aviation industry awaits payment of about $600 million in outstanding air fares in the country, which is struggling to cope with depleted U.S. currency reserves. The Managing Direc-

tor for sub-Saharan Africa of the German carrier, Claus Becker, said it has made “minor adjustments” to winter flights to Africa’s biggest economy. Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association is in talks with the Nigerian government about the nonpayment of fares and may reach a solution in the next few weeks, he said.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Power tussle Lagos PDP chieftains return to the trenches

Politics

Interview Nigeria’s past leaders paid much attention to politics than governance – Ahmed

12 14

8th Assembly: Senate rates self high CHUKWU DAVID reports on the achievements of the Eighth Senate which clocked one year on June 9

he Eighth Senate of the National Assembly was inaugurated on June 9, 2015, amid controversy, which its ripple effects are yet to be settled. In fact, the fallout of the rift that trailed the emergence of the leadership of the Senate militated against its legislative efficiency. But in spite of the setbacks brought about by the lingering leadership crisis in the Upper Chamber, the apex Assembly was able to record some achievements in the last 12 months. At the celebration of its one year anniversary last week, the Senate revealed that it had received a total of 300 bills within one legislative session. Out of these 300 bills, the Upper Chamber also disclosed that 11 of them had gone through all the required legislative processes and are now pending assent by President Muhammadu Buhari. The Senate Majority Leader, Senator Ali Ndume, first gave the statistical data of the bills, motions and petitions received and processed by the Upper Chamber in one year. While addressing the Senate in plenary last Thursday, Ndume said that despite the challenges the Chamber had to grapple with, it was able to make some impactful efforts within the year under review. He said: "I want to say that this 8th Senate despite the challenges we initially had within the one year, we can proudly say that we stand out; we can say we have achieved a lot. "So far, we have introduced 300 bills, out of which 285 are sponsored bills by our members. Only four are executive bills. 186 of them have passed through first

FELIX NWANERI

GROUP PoLITICAL EDITOR nwanerif@newtelegraphonline.com

Saraki

reading, while three of them were withdrawn and one was negatived. "I want to say here that it is not only the number of bills passed by the Senate or the National Assembly that matters but also the number of bills that we considered.” According to Ndume, the Senate also moved and passed 96 very important motions, which led the Chamber to carry out comprehensive investigations into some contentious critical national issues. For instance, some of the motions led to investigation on the alleged fraudulent deals through the Treasury Single Account (TSA); the recent increase in electricity tariff and the abuse of import waivers. The Senate Leader noted that some of the investigations helped the Federal Government to recover huge sums of money running into hundreds of billions to the federal coffers. He noted that the Senate also received 159 petitions, most of which have been processed, leading to providing justice to individuals that were otherwise deprived by various sources in the society. Apart from bills, motions and petitions, the Eighth Senate also brought an innovation to the activities of the Chamber by introducing electronic mailing to enable the members access the Order Paper through e-mail addresses ahead of session. The chairman, Senate committee on Rules and Business, Senator Babajide Omoworare, who briefed journalists after plenary

Ndume

We believe that legislative activities .... will improve the economy and ultimately guarantee a better life for our people

that same Thursday, corroborated the account of the Senate Leader on the performance of the Senate. Omoworare said that the Senate had within one year, passed 96 landmark resolutions and made various confirmation of executive nominations, ranging from ministers, service chiefs to heads of government parastatals and departments. He said that between June 9, 2015 and June this year, a total of 300 bills were introduced amongst which were four executive bills, while the rest were private members bills. According to him, out of the 300 bills, 45 had passed second reading and referred to the relevant committees for further legislative action. He said some others were awaiting publication in the legislative journal of the Senate while three were withdrawn for representation by their sponsors. Omoworare further disclosed that the 159 petitions received by the Senate bordered on wrongful termination of appointments of individuals by different establishments whether public or private. He stated that the petitions were referred to the Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions Committee for legislative action, with a view to making recommendations to the Senate for proper resolutions. The Senate President Bukola Saraki, in his anniversary speech, said that the Upper Chamber properly understands the problems facing the country, and is

committed to playing a major role in tackling the challenges. He further said that this determination informed why the Chamber anchored its Legislative Agenda on three cardinal objectives of improving governance, improving business and improving livelihood. Saraki pointed out that legislative activities that focused on these three areas would improve the economy and guarantee better life for the citizens. His words: "The Senate understands this obvious challenge and that is why the Legislative Agenda of the 8th Senate is anchored on three cardinal objectives of improving governance, improving business and, improving livelihood. "We believe that legislative activities that sustainably improve on these three key indicators will improve the economy and ultimately guarantee a better life for our people.” The Senate president said that legislative interventions made by the Eighth Senate had yielded about 15 major economic reform bills and seven business environment bills. He pointed out that among the most important of the bills passed include, the Electronic Transaction Bill 2015; Debt Recovery and Insolvency bill 2015 and; the Railway Bill which is being considered through the final lap. These bills, according to him, represent a watershed in economic and business legislations carried out by the Eight Senate.

POLITICS PLATFORM

N’Assembly yet to meet expectations – Okorie National Chairman of the United Progressive Party (UPP), Chief Chekwas Okorie, in this interview with Felix Nwaneri, speaks on one year of the Eighth National Assembly How would you asses the 8th National Assembly, which clocked one year recently? The last one year of the 8th National Assembly is as drab as the one year of the executive arm of government. However, while the executive arm can be excused, the legislature cannot because it didn’t have the same challenge the executive had at the inception of this government. Members of the 8th Assembly spent much of their time battling for positions and are still battling over who will take over from Bukola Saraki as the Senate president, and I have not seen anything that can lift our democracy that had come from them. I have not seen any intervention in lawmaking that can improve governance instead the National Assembly was associated with the inglorious padding of the 2016 budget. And in the face of matters of national urgency, they were going on recesses. That didn’t show seriousness because they should have postponed those recesses to face the country’s problems. That the Muhammadu Buhari government started late was the making of the 8th National Assembly, so their one year in office is below expectation and I will score them a very poor mark. Do you expect any improvement in the second year? There is no sign that the second year would be better because they are still battling over who takes over when Saraki is removed, and they are not taking serious, the issue of Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which will go a long way in helping to liberalise the downstream sector of the petroleum sector as well as address the problems oil exploration. They are not looking at that as a major national issue even in the face of so many agitations from the Niger area.

Okorie

5 Questions

They are all waiting for when Nigeria would be restructured, but supposed Nigeria is not restructured today or tomorrow, which is likely, can’t the National Assembly do something? That we have horrible electoral laws that are holding our democracy back is because of the inactivity of the National Assembly. I thought they would have tackled the issue in their first year. So, generally, they have not addressed any of the legislative functions for which there were set up for and they don’t seem to be in a position to do so in their second year because I have not seen any indication to that. Do you subscribe to the view that the legislators’ poor performance is a result of the soured relationship between them and the executive? I will say that because of the unfortunate internal wrangling in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which also has the majority in the National Assembly, there is the tendency to look at the executive for everything, which should not be so. The situation makes us to remember with nostalgia, the days of Senator Ken Nnamani as the Senate president, when members of the upper legislative chamber had the type of leadership they wanted and shunned whatever interference that came from then President Olusegun Obasanjo. The National Assembly at the time comprising of the House of Representatives led by the governor of Katsina State, Aminu Bello Masari, was one of the result-oriented legislature in our recent history. It was totally independent unlike what we have now, which cannot move an inch except it first interprets correctly the body language of the president. Are you implying that present National Assembly is a rubber stamp? I am not saying that National Assembly should be in confrontation with the executive but that level of independence of the legislature for it to be in a position to ensure a proper check of the executive, which is one the reasons why the parliament exists is not there. The National Assembly is to check the excesses of the president and ensure that his appointments conform to the Federal Character Principle. They don’t necessarily have to initiate an impeachment when the president contravenes the principle but to call him to order and tell him that his mode of appointments is not carrying all sections of the country along. That is part of their oversight functions. How would you compare the cost of running the present National Assembly to those of the past? Despite all these sour points, I will say that there is a slight departure from what obtained in the past as regards to cost of governance, when we look at the 8th National Assembly. The president’s insistence on cutting cost has put everybody including members of the legislature on the modest side. That excessive comfort doesn’t seem to be there anymore though not as the initiative of the National Assembly but that of the president.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Lagos PDP chieftains Like a recurring decimal, the crisis within the fold of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State has resurfaced. WALE ELEGBEDE examines the latest rumbling in the party

ince the advent of the Fourth Republic in 1999, the narratives of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, have been tainted with crisis over crisis. In fact, the last five general elections in the state has always met and left the party in tatters. Interestingly, the dramatis personae in the party have always been the same year in year out. Expectedly, the bickering within the party has made its shots for the Alausa Lagos House an elusive task despite the fact that the PDP was in charge at the federal level for 16 straight years. What looks as a likely light at the end of the tunnel for the party at the 2015 poll, also went the same way of the All Progressives Congress (APC). But the party’s candidate at the last governorship election, Mr Jimi Agbaje, put up a spirited performance and recorded its best performance since 1999. At the election, PDP played second fiddle to the APC. Agbaje got 659, 788 votes while Akinwunmi Ambode, the APC candidate, polled 811,944. Ambode, who had an overall margin lead of 152,206 over Agbaje, won in 15 local government areas. Agbaje, however, won in five local governments- Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Amuwo Odofin, Oshodi-Isolo, Surulere and Ojo. However, the party had chunks of legislative seats in the election. For the first time in its history, the party won five seats in the House of Representatives and got eight state constituencies in the state assembly. While it was expected that the party would consolidate on its gains and build a virile network around its lawmakers to enhance its chances in the next round of electioneering period, the opposite was the case as the party got enmeshed in a fresh round of crisis after the election. First, few weeks after the general elections, precisely May 11, a faction of the state executive council, led by the party’s former secretary, Mr. Wahab Owokoniran, purportedly suspend the former state chairman, Capt. Olatunji Shelle and appointed his vice, Hon. Kamar Olorunoje in his stead. According to the faction, the many sins of Shelle that warranted his eventual suspension include rendering the PDP structure inactive before, during and after the 2015 general, alleged allocation of "funds to various party members and officials according to his wishes without seeking the approval of the State Working Committee," among others.

George

However, the former chairman described the plot against him as a failed political coup, saying that members who carried out the act are ignorant of processes within the party, adding that the attempt against his position in the party is faulty and illegal. With his tenure already at its bedtime, Shelle, who is an ally of the former deputy national chairman of the party and chieftain of the party in the state, Chief Olabode George, decided to allow time roll over issues in the party, in fact, at a time, he was rumored to have abandoned the party’s secretariat over juju scare by the factional group. Just like the struggle for the soul of the party at the national level between the former governor of Borno State, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff and some members of the party’s Stakeholders’ forum led by Prof. Jerry Gana, the party in the state was also having its own share of crisis in a bid to get a new chairman. With the former Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro already out of the picture in the state, it was reported that the senator representing Ogun East, Senator Buruji Kashamu, has already raised a team of supporters to dwindle the influence of George in the state. It was gathered that the Kashamu movement, which had the support of Sheriff at the national headquarters, parades the likes of Alhaji Kola Balogun, Segun Adewale (Aeroland), Olorunoje, Dr. Adetokunbo Pearse, among others. Before the eventual conduct of the party’s state congress on May 13, several nocturnal meetings held to reach a consensus on the power sharing formular among the Balogun and George group failed. A source within the party told New Telegraph that, “Shekarau was sent to

CROSSFIRE From now to 2018, Ali Modu Sheriff remains the authentic chairman of the PDP, unless if the court makes a pronouncement that Ali Sheriff is not chairman -Ali Modu Sheriff

This is what we are trying to get rid of from PDP and all the so called court orders, being bandied about aren’t really true... the court never stopped any convention -Ahmed Makarfi

POLITICS PLATFORM

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

return to the trenches

Salvador

Adewale

Lagos to mediate between the Bode George and Kola Balogun groups, and they were directed to nominate four representatives each as members of the committee. A 40 to 60 per cent sharing formula was made but at the end of the day, the whole arrangement broke down because the group that wanted to take 60 percent also wants to produce the chairman.” However, the party organised a state congress and a former member of the House of Representatives, Mr Moshood Salvador, was elected as chairman. Salvador, alongside other aspirants for various offices were unanimously elected at the state congress of the party held in GRA, Ikeja, Lagos. Those elected alongside Salvador at the congress include Prince Muiz Shodipe (Secretary), Chief Ola Apena (Deputy chairman), Mr Taofik Gani (Publicity Secretary), Taiwo Kuye (Organising secretary), and Princess Olateru Olagbebi (Woman leader). However, addressing a press conference last week in his office, Adewale, who was the party’s senatorial candidate at the last election, told newsmen that he is the authentic chairman of the party, declaring that the Salvador-led

The battle line...between the two factions... is a reincarnation of past crisis rocking the state chapter of the party

exco, which currently occupies the PDP Secretariat, was "a fictitious creation of Chief Olabode George and it has no recognition from any organ of the National PDP." Adewale, who insisted that the party’s congress held at Gbagada area of the state, returned him as chairman, Olorunoje as vice chairman; Hon. Babajide Ladeinde as Secretary and Pearse as Publicity Secretary, added that their election has received the backing of the Sheriff-led national executive. Adewale made this declaration when he addressed a press conference in his office, with other party chieftain, including Dr. Adetokunbo Pearse, Hon. Abdulkamal Olorunoje, , among others. “I would like to seize this opportunity to appeal to the media to avoid granting interviews to Mr. Moshood Salvador, Mr. Gani Taofik, or any member of their illegal Exco. "By posing as officers of the party, these people are creating confusion among PDP members, causing disaffection for PDP in the community, and undermining our efforts to perform our role as a credible opposition party," the factional chairman said. Speaking further, Adewale, who buttressed his claim to the

leadership of the party with a letter written by former chairman of PDP, Sheriff, assured that the party under him was poised to rig itself of those he described as 'old PDP cabal who led the party astray for 16years.' "This 2016-2020 executive Committee under my leadership is committed to total victory in Lagos come 2019, and we are determined to rid ourselves of the old PDP cabal who led the party astray for 16years. "We will build our own secretariat. We will unite our party and treat our members with respect. We will provide the people of Lagos with an alternative to this do-nothing administration of Akniwunmi Ambode. We will give Lagos State an effective governor, and a caring administration in 2019.” However, in a swift response to Adewale’s claim, Salvador, said those who were not part of the state congress that produced his leadership at the PDP secretariat could not lay claim to leadership at all. While recalling that the congress exercise that was held at the party secretariat last May, produced the exco he is heading and was attended by PDP delegates from across the state, Salvador described the group headed by Adewale as a ploy by former Governor Sheriff to stay in power as PDP national chairman. "I am not here to join issues with anybody. My own is that this is the secretariat of the PDP and that is where you come to meet me and tells you what you need to see and to know. The State congress of PDP was held here at this secretariat. "Anybody that boycotted it, the people that boycott election cannot be considered as part of that congress. It is your right to come or not to come. This is the venue of state congress. It was conducted here and the winner was declared. "It was between me and Dr. Adegbola Dominics. So we are talking of high calibre of people, we are not talking of just anybody here. So party knows what they want, that is a section of Ali Modu Sheriff as far as we are concerned," Salvador said As it stands, the battle line is drawn between the two factions in the state PDP, a development that analysts believe is a reincarnation of past crisis rocking the state chapter of the party. The question on the lips of political watchers is, who will save Lagos PDP?

POLITRICKS

Lagos Assembly goes digital

here is no more hiding place for un-performing lawmakers in the Lagos State House of Assembly, following the legislative chamber’s recent launch of online platforms that will enable constituents interact with their representatives. The platforms – facebook, twitter, youtube and instagram will also afford Lagosians the opportunity to monitor activities of the lawmakers in terms of bills and motions they sponsored and moved as well as their contributions to debates on the floor of the House. Speaker of the Lagos Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa who

launched the online platforms last week as part of activities to mark one year anniversary of the 8th legislative session, charged Lagosians to avail themselves of the opportunity to keep tab on their respective representatives. Besides the platforms, the House is planning an online television that that would stream live sessions of its sittings to the public. Stakeholders, who commended the initiative, were of the consensus that the days of some lawmakers only seconding motions and concurring with the submissions of others are now over.

June 12 public holiday in S’West

or the first time in SouthWest, people were denied the opportunity of observing June 12 as public holiday like they were used to in the past 16 years. Since the begging of the Fourth Republic in May 29, 1999, some South-West governors usually declared June 12 as public holiday to celebrate the heroes and heroines of democracy, especially the acclaimed winner of June 12, 1993 presidential election, Bashorun MKO Abiola, who died in government cus-

tody on July 7, 1998. But people were denied the opportunity this year as only Osun State declared June 12 as public holiday while others refused to do so. Many were even surprised that Ogun and Lagos states, which played leading roles in past June 12 anniversary refused to declare public holiday. Politricks wonder why the states were different this year. Is it a deliberate action or what is because June 12 was on Sunday? The state governments are in best position to answer.

POLITICAL NOTES

IBB: A cat with nine lives O

ne man whose death rumour has turned a recurring decimal is former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida Babangida. Like past trends, the social media was awash last week with stories that the former military leader had passed on in Germany where he went to seek medical treatment. The rumour of Babangida’s death few days to the celebration of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, which he annulled, made many Nigerians to be curious. The rumour was however dispelled when the Minna, Niger State born general spoke from Germany on a live television programme last Wednesday that he is alive and will soon return to the country. IBB as Babangida is fondly called by his admirers lived up to his words, when he arrived at the Minna International Airport in company of some of his family members in a chattered private jet on Friday. Speaking to journalists at his Hilltop Mansion in Minna, Babangida said he is getting use to rumours of his death, wondering why people would constantly peddle rumours of his death at the slightest news of attending to his health outside the country. “The rumour does not shock me, neither does it bother me because I know I must go and meet God, my creator. There is nothing really to worry about, my religion has told me. As a Muslim, I strongly believe everybody will die, everybody will die and everybody has to die. It could be now or in a hundred years’ time or two days to come but it doesn’t matter. Everybody must die,” he said. Since Babangida “stepped aside” from Aso Rock in 1993 after the annulment of the June 12 election, there had been several reports about his death, especially any time he is out of the country on a medical trip but they usually turn to rumours. Babangida in the last few years often suffer a relapse of pain from injury received in his right leg as a result of piercing by a bullet during the civil war and he has visited Germany on many occasions for Radiculopathy treatment. Considering how death stories of the gap-toothed military ruler have turned out to be rumours on many occasion, the 74-year old retired general is undoubtedly a cat with nine lives.

TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past leaders paid much attention to politics than governance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ahmed Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed believes that much attention to politicking in the past affected governance and brought Nigeria to where she is currently. He also speaks on the affairs of the state and some national issues. BIODUN OYELEYE reports What is your take on President Muhammadu Buhariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s broadcast to mark the recent Democracy Day, which members of the opposition said did not address salient issues bothering the nation? I listened to the Presidents' broadcast and I see a picture of where Nigeria is today, where Nigeria was coming from and a picture of where Nigeria needs to go to. I see a picture of what happened to bring us to where we are and a picture of what we need to do to move us to a desired level because the situation we have found ourselves is a situation where we have consistently watched the system break down gradually in different facets such as economic, social and infrastructure. And because we allowed too much politicking to eat into the useful time of governance in the past, it hadn't allowed us to pay a lot of attention and resources to areas that affect us as a people. And that has brought us to where we are today. And it tells me that time has come for us, from what the President said, to truly recognise our challenges. And that is the first step forward. Secondly, we need to look at our comparative advantages. Thirdly, we need to create a sense of determination of togetherness to move to the Promised Land. So, I want to believe that he has succinctly put it to us that, yes, there are challenges, but there are opportunities. And as a state, we have since keyed into the policy of seeing advantages and opportunities even in times of crisis. And that is what we hold on to propel us as a state to a desirable level. So, I see a sense of congruent in what the President said in terms of economic expectations, social comfort and of course, improved lifestyle for an average Nigerian. And that is what we have keyed in as a state in policy terms. How do you think security challenges like that of herdsmen against farmers and resurgence of militancy in the Niger Delta could be resolved? To truly understand the situa-

tion we have found ourselves as a nation, we need to have a retrospective view of where we are coming from. Why have people, who had hitherto lived together begin to take up arms against themselves. Certain things are clear. The first one, which is the common one, is economic. Perpetually, man is in a race of striving for control of power, resources and income. That drive propels you to key into opportunities. Situation happens and we react to it differently. The concept of cattle rearing clashing with farming should not arise at all but because agriculture has never been streamlined to be driven as a major focus of revenue generation for Nigeria. Otherwise, we would have put a lot of regulatory systems in place such as farmers' protection platforms, produce protection platform, land management issues, land in respect to either cattle rearing or cropping, strong research institutions. We would have created areas that would have allowed our farmers to be seen in such a way and manner that we can attend to them and they can attend to us. You can imagine a situation where our grazing farmers are locked up in a size of land where they can grow grass, harvest the grass, feed the cattle and less energy is expended by the herdsmen and the cattle in moving around. By the time they get home, they have expended the energy derivable. But if they don't move around, and they stay in a place, they can access the grass and their cattle can be attended to, they too can go to school and contribute their quota to the economic system. These are doable things. But these can only be done when the right policies and orientation are in place. Our agricultural policy has largely been concentrating on crop farming. We have not given attention to this sector in terms of strong support and organisation and optimal benefit from this sector of agriculture. This is what we are required to do beyond the sentiment of ethnoreligious colouration of cattle

Ahmed

We have consistently watched the system break down gradually in different facets

rearing. It tells us that time has truly come for us as a country to truly look at the cattle rearing as an arm of farming that requires deliberate policy and the cattle rearing platform will be fully incorporated into our agriculture policy and the benefit can be optimized. If we continue to allow it to be driven under the current ethno-political colouration, we will not get there. That is my position. There are no policies in place to enable cattle rearing to be seen as agribusiness in Nigeria and that is what we require to do. Once we get it done, anybody can go into cattle rearing. It is not the exclusive preserve of the Fulani and other ethnic nationalities. If we begin to see it from that angle, I think the challenge will be reduced through cohesion of ideas and bringing a sense of congruence that will drive our policies to the right direction. Once these policies are done, we can work out an implementation platform but the policies can only be carried out if the sub-nationals are carried along in policies formulation and implementation. On the activities of militants in the South-South, who have continued to blow up oil pipelines, I think their action

is unnecessary. Everything we get to do in life has a purpose. As humans, our ability to drive organisational platforms, where views and opinions are synthesised into working platforms is what truly tells how civilised we are. That also tells why we are higher than other animals. The militants have no reason to blow up pipelines if they have grouses with the system. There are many ways outside blowing of pipes that we can sit and resolve critical issues amicably. If it had not worked, it means that efficient ways to make it work have not been employed. And there should be other ways. The destroyed pipelines are set backs to the country. What they stand for, which is unconnected with economic benefit, could be resolved through dialogue. Payment of workers salaries had become so irregular in many states of the federation. What do you think should be done to make it easy like what obtained in the past? I feel very sad that people work and they find it difficult to get paid. No matter what, it should not be a problem for workers to get paid. I had seen danger in the way the economy of the states and local governments had been

POLITICS \ INTERVIEW

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Buhari is an upright person... Nobody can question his love for Nigeria and Nigerians

run. Apart from being monoeconomic dependent, I saw little activities happening outside civil service. If it had been that the civil service was run by Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), there won't have been a problem, but it is run from proceeds accruing from sales of crude oil, the price of which is exogenous to us. We should have seen that it is not a sustainable level of driving governance. However, be it as it may, we have found ourselves in this situation. The challenges are huge. Again, we have always been saddled with high unemployment rate of 65 per cent of the population of 15 and 65 age bracket. Government is to make environment enabling for people to unleash their potentials. These government responsibilities include; security, infrastructure, economic stimulus. Unfortunately, our capacity to put this in place had been gradually reduced by the consistent drop in the price of crude oil which has affected our earnings and distributable money. Different states with different problems and we all apply different strategies based on exigencies we find ourselves. For us in Kwara, we have been managing

We have been managing our resources by ensuring that we don't over stretch our growing capacities

our resources by ensuring that we don't over stretch our growing capacities. And we try to work within frame work that allows our capacity to repay to be hinged and determined by our IGR capacity. That determines our borrowing growth capacity and informs how much to take from the market. Our monthly allocation has consistently dropped and making planning difficult. We find ourselves augmenting salary payment as it comes as primary obligation. And that is why we cannot continue to use everything we get to pay salary. The situation has prompted us into cutting the cost of running government in overhead and personnel costs. We have employed zero budgeting and ongoing verification of staff, certificate and employment respectively in these regards. We must get it right and this data would enable proper planning. We have also improved our IGR with about 100 per cent growth. We are expecting to 300 to 500 per cent growth in that area. It is now electronically driven with large volume of success expected in collection of revenue. Your administration at a point in time wanted to take a bond. How

far have you gone in realising that? What made us to arrive at the bond issue is in our quest to drive capital issue. We looked for various platforms that funds could be available from. What platforms are they: the capital market; the money market; the developmental institutions, buyers’ credit systems? These are all windows from which a potential institution or state can access funds to drive business. In all these sources of funding for capital projects, they have one common denominator. It is the capacity to pay back. That is the determining factor whether you will raise money or whether you will not raise money and how much you can raise. Now, what determines our capacity as state to go to borrow money? There are two key things: federal allocation funds and our IGR. At the time we muted the idea to go to the capital market, we were premising our capacity at that time we were deciding, which was over a year ago, either from federation allocation or IGR. As it were, the federally allocated funds had been going down. IGR system for us is something which we have just restructured which is growing from infancy to a desirable level. In a nutshell, that has impeded our capacity to raise the original N20 billion we sought to raise because of the consistent drop in our revenue from the federation account and has made us to begin to look at truly how much can we raise with the current inconsistent revenue capacity. We have since looked at dropping it to N10 billion, which is what we are pushing for now, subject to stabilisation of the revenue. So, what is stopping the bond per se is this revenue capacity. We are reviewing each of the borrowing windows viz-a-vis our capacity to service whatever we take in such a way and manner that it will not keep undue pressure on current and recurrent expenditure – that is salaries and wages, overheads, cost of running governance, among others. A lot more things are being put into consideration in determining which of the funding windows we will take. We might ultimately go for the buyer’s credit. It depends if we are able to structure it with institutions, we can go on with buyer’s credit which enables us to carry on with our capacity projects with a steady, strong repayment system, which gives us sense of comfort to the service provider. These are various options. But one thing is clear: we will do those projects, which we said we would do under those terms. Can you list some of the projects? The projects are clear and they will be big enough to make a difference to Kwarans especially in traffic management; that is the under-pass in Geri Alimi. If you look at the level of growth from that axis, it is unimaginable, a very large population. Other projects include, the two campuses of Kwara State University (KWASU), Ilesha-Baruba and Osi are functional before we leave. We want students to resume for those colleges that will be there, agric and environment studies. We want to see that we extend the

dual carriage to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) to save more lives. Ganmo road will also be daulised 100 meters to Ganmo town, then we will do Agbabiaka to link us, so that it will create a bypass. We want to create dual carriages at all entry points to Kwara. We hopefully want to renovate the Indoor Sports Hall. We also have some ongoing roads. Quite a few of them have been captured by the federal budget. We pray that funds are released. The road projects include Kiama-Kish road. If it is funded, it will bring a lot of relief for Kwarans and Kwara State government. The SharePatigi-Paada at Kogi boundary is also in the federal budget. If it is funded, it will be a huge relief for us because we are currently doing part of the road. You can imagine the savings from there. We budgeted something also for Ajase-Erinle boundary. That too we had intention of working on, so being in the federal budget is a huge savings. Whatever you say, this is the best thing that has happened to Kwara in the last 16 years I know. For the first time, we are getting projects coming in the federal budget, projects that we would have hitherto spent our money because they are critical to Kwarans. The Oha Bridge is in the federal budget. When last did we have the capacity to be noticed and getting federal projects captured at the federal level? That happened this time. How did it get done? Anyway, go and think about that. Five years down the line, how do you feel being governor of Kwara State? First, I keep thanking God Almighty because I keep looking back to where I was coming from. I go back to my primary school days. I look at how I was wandering around the streets, swimming in rivers, entering vehicles from Kaduna to Zaria and Funtua, coming back to find myself sitting here for the past five years, I keep thanking God. He is wonderful. That is what I reflect on daily. I look at my classmates and I wondered: Did I ever think I will be sitting down like this as governor. I reflect on this and see it as a strong sense of responsibility. It is not luck. Allah (SWT) has a purpose for it. It is a responsibility, which has fallen on my laps and I must take. I ask myself, how much more can I do in the next three years that will change the peoples’ live. How can we change Kwara? I had a dream about Kwara as a young school boy. Each time a bus takes us to the permanent site of Kwara State Polytechnic in the early 80s, I keep wondering one day, the streets would be like small London, have shopping malls, dual carriage roads. I always had that dream. God has put me where I can actualise some of them. So, I want to drive them. Each day I wake up, I see my being governor as a strong responsibility that requires that I do certain things to change peoples’ live. In sha Allah, I will continue to do that and create a path that would make my successors do much better for Kwarans under a peaceful atmosphere for growth and development.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion

Remembering or forgetting MKO Abiola? TREASURES BOLA BOLAWOLE turnpot@gmail.com 0807-552-5533 (sms only)

ast Sunday was the 23rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won squarely by the late business mogul and philanthropist par excellence, Bashorun Moshood Olawale Kashimawo Abiola. That election has been variously described as “a watershed”, freest and fairest”, “ephocal” etc. in the history of Nigeria. Abiola won that election hands down, flogging his opponent, Bashir Tofa, in all the nooks and crannies of the country. Tofa, like Goodluck Jonathan some 22 years after, graciously conceded defeat but the military junta of dictator, Ibrahim Babangida, annulled the election and threw Nigeria into what famously came to be described as “political impasse”. The military tried to hold on to power but civil society forced IBB to “step aside”. The contraption of an Interim National Government that he foisted on the country as he retreated did not last long as it was shoved aside by another military dictator, Sani Abacha. Repressive and blood-thirsty as Abacha was, his strong-arm tactics failed to quell the people’s agitation for the actualization of the June 12 mandate; neither did it break the spirit of the rightful owner of the mandate freely given by the people, MKO Abiola nor soften his resolute stand to claim back the mandate. Ultimately, Abacha died an

ignoble death in office whilst clinging to the stolen mandate; sadly, Abiola soon followed, poisoned through a collusion of Nigerian officials with a United States of America delegation purportedly trying to find a way out of the impasse. Abiola reportedly gasped for breath and died after taking a cup of tea said to have been prepared for him by a top American official. The death of Abiola did not deter agitation for an end to military rule; so did it become that in May 1999, the man who succeeded Abacha, Abdusalami Abubakar, handed over power to a, well, democratically-elected president, Olusegun Obasanjo. Before then, Obasanjo had been military head of State between 1976 and 1979; handing over power to the democratically-elected government of Alhaji Shehu Shagari. A defining character of the Obasanjo presidency was his deep-seated animosity towards June 12 and scantily-concealed dislike for Abiola. While Abiola was still battling to actualise his mandate, placing his life on the line, Obasanjo had travelled to South Africa to proclaim that Abiola was not the messiah that Nigeria needed. It was, therefore, not a surprise that for his eight years in the saddle, Obasanjo neither broached nor acquiesced to the idea of honouring the memory of MKO. Never mind that both Abiola and Obasanjo came from the same Ogun state and are both Egbas. Someone said Obasanjo’s hubris will not allow him stomach the idea of another Yoruba man equalling his feat; not to talk of surpassing him. Hence, his early on opposition to Chief Obafemi Awolowo becoming president; media reports of the time even had it that Obasanjo would have been the ING chairman in the place of Ernest Shonekan, but for media leakage of the plot that embarrassed him greatly.

Even leaders who had profited greatly from Abiola’s sacrifice had rather feathered their own nests and their spouses’ and children’s than remember MKO’s lineage

Since 1999, Nigeria has had four presidents but none had deemed it fit to publicly and unequivocally acknowledge Abiola’s contributions to our renascent democracy as well as adequately honour, appreciate, and compensate him for his sacrifice. The faint-hearted and misdirected efforts of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan floundered and he quickly, like a tortoise, tucked his head inside his shell. We have seen presidents and governors appoint the children of prominent Nigerians living and death into high office – but not so the children of MKO Abiola; except for Otunba Gbenga Daniel during his tenure as governor of Ogun state who extended an opportunity to Abiola-Edewor, eldest daughter of Abiola and Ogun governor Ibikunle Amosun who offered another daughter, Hafsat, a cabinet position . Since then, even leaders who had profited greatly from Abiola’s sacrifice had rather feathered their own nests and their spouses’ and children’s than remember MKO’s lineage. And MKO is not the only leader that Nigeria’s political class has treated so shabbily. In fact, it appears the rule here, rather than the exception, that heroes are hardly remembered, not to talk of their being celebrated. Col. Francis Adekunle Jajuyi’s 50th anniversary will be due on July 29th but who again remembers this man of courage, who chose to die with his guest, the then Head of State JTU Aguiyi-Ironsi, even when he was offered the opportunity to save his own skin? Who remembers head of State, Murtala Muhammed, who was assassinated in broad daylight at Obalende on his way to work at Dodan Barracks of February 13, 1976? Who remembers all the heroes of June 12 – Alfred Rewane, Kudirat Abiola, Suliat Adedeji, Dr. Omosola, Bagauda Kaltho and so many others? Who remembers the Alao Aka-Bashoruns, the Baba Omojolas, Beko Ransome-Kutis, Adekunle Ajasins; even the Felas and Gani Fawehinmis?

Enugu herdsmen, false alarm and political undertone Linus Onyebuchi

he recent false alarm in some sections of the media that the Fulani herdsmen returned to the once traumatised Nimbo community in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, raped women and threatened to unleash more terror on the community is not only unfortunate and costly but also a hoax embedded with political undertones. The alarm which nearly threw the entire country into another nightmarish apprehension, according to media reports, allegedly emanated from the Traditional Ruler of the community, Igwe John Ikemefuna Akor, who immediately addressed the press and denied the reports. It is quite unfortunate that the traumatic hoax came at a time peace had returned to Nimbo and the people of the community were recovering from the shock of the senseless carnage. The Igwe in question, I learnt, did not only dispel the alarm as unfounded, he went further to state categorically that no woman was raped and that he did not speak to any reporter on the issue. Igwe Akor said: “There are no Fulanis in my community again. Since the attack in April, they all fled. As I am talking to you now, normalcy has returned to Nimbo; the people

are back on their farms. The story is a figment of the imagination of the writer. No woman was raped and I didn’t speak to any reporter”. As a consultant farmer to one of the industrialized agricultural establishments in Uzo Uwani Local Government Area, I do visit the area daily. I have been following with keen interest the unfolding developments in the Nimbo incident, and to the best of my knowledge, I had not encountered the presence of the Fulani herdsmen or their cattle, as the Igwe rightly stated. Confirming the Igwe’s stance on the alarm raised in the media, the Enugu State Police Command, through a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, SP Ebere Amaraizu, swiftly described the publications as “false, malicious, mischievous and misleading”. Amaraizu said that the state police command had been working tirelessly in partnership with other security agencies, the Enugu State Government and relevant stakeholders, since after the sad incident at Nimbo Community, to ensure that peace returns to the community and that lives and property of the people of the area are protected. He maintained that security operatives have been on ground in Nimbo community since the ugly incident. The state Police PRO, while presenting a detailed account of what

had transpired, disclosed that “the Commissioner of Police, CP Emmanuel Ojukwu on receipt of the misleading report, quickly contacted his security operatives on duty at Nimbo community where he got a report that the area is still peaceful and that there is no trace of Fulani herdsmen since after the ugly incident.” The police statement said: “The Area Commander, Nsukka Zone and the DPO, Adani in charge of Nimbo also confirmed that there is no trace of herdsmen in the area since after the ugly incident of April 25, 2016.” “Also contacted were the Traditional Ruler of Nimbo Community, HRH Igwe John Akor and the Chairman of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, Cornell Onwubuya who maintained that the area is peaceful and there have not been any trace of Fulani Herdsmen and their cattle since after the ugly incident and wondered why there should be such publication. “However, to ensure that things were not taken for granted, the heads of Fulani/herdsmen communities were summoned to this effect and in his reaction, Bala Ardo, the general secretary maintained that Fulani herdsmen since after the incident at Nimbo have not gone to the area and its environs as he stressed that it will be morally wrong for them to go back to the area when the community is still nursing injuries of their lost ones.” Sensing political undertone in

the entire scenario, the Police PRO, stressed that “probe into the publication revealed that it is not only false but baseless and aimed at undermining the efforts of the state government as well as that of the security agencies put in place to restore normalcy and to ensure that there is lasting peace not only in Nimbo but other communities in the state. “The command also viewed such publication as capable of generating tension, rancour and bitterness among people in the state. The command has mobilized its security apparatus to fish out those in the habit of spreading false and dangerous rumours in the state and bring them to book.” Also dispelling the said media reports, the Fulani community in the state and the leadership of Nimbo community insisted that no such renewed attack occurred in Nimbo. They added that the Fulani herdsmen have not returned to the community and appealed to Nimbo residents to inform their leaders or security agencies whenever they sight any pastoralist in the community. Dismissing the alarm as “false and mischievous”, the Chairman of Uzo Uwani Local Government Area, Hon. Cornell Onwubuya, alleged that it was also “targeted at undermining the successful efforts made by the present administration in Enugu State to resolve the Nimbo incident, amicably.” • Onyebuchi wrote in from Awka, Anambra State.

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As JAMB and universities battle

he fresh hues and cries about the existence of the Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, fondly called post-UTME by candidates writing qualifying examinations into higher institution, as a matter of urgent consideration, should be critically examined. This, however, has become imperative, if not for anything, but for the credibility of the twinexaminations; the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the Post-UTME by individual universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, for admission of students into the institutions. Precisely, two weeks ago, the Federal Government, through the Education Minister announced the scrapping of the post-UTME from the system, a development that has continued to raise dust as to legitimacy about who actually has the official seal to conduct admissions into these institutions. Is it JAMB, or do the universities have any say and at what level in the placement of students into their institutions as it is being claimed or orchestrated by the university administrators, who are bent on the conduct of post-UTME as part of the individual university’s control over the quality of students they will admit. The Minister, Mallam Adamu Adamu, had at the 2016 Combined Policy Meeting on Admissions convened by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board expressed confidence in the UTME, arguing further that it was unnecessary for individual institutions to conduct a sepa-

rate examination (post-UTME) to guarantee admissions. According to him, “as far as I am concerned, JAMB has built a level of confidence in terms of conducting the UTME, a situation where universities go and conduct other examination is unnecessary. If the universities have any complaint against JAMB, let them channel their complaints appropriately and we would address such.” But, beyond the Federal Government’s directive to halt the conduct of the exercise, there had been outcry over the years concerning the manner with which the universities in particular had been going about the conduct of the

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financial base, which had already depleted due to inadequate funding allocation from the government, their proprietors. The heightened disaffection generated among key stakeholders in the system in the last few days, following the government’s decision, however, suggests the need, without any further delay, to properly situate and spell out the position of the universities and JAMB in admission exercise

There is no gain saying, therefore, that the postUTME was a child of necessity borne out of the credibility, integrity

post-UTME. There is no gain saying, therefore, that the post-UTME was a child of necessity borne out of the credibility, integrity and transparent crises already suffered by JAMB and its examinations, which hitherto had reduced admission process into higher institutions to a mere charade in which candidates’ scores absolutely failed to represent their abilities, as JAMB marks were sold and bought on cash and carry basis by highest bidders. Interestingly, the universities since the introduction of the post-UTME in 2006, have seen it as an avenue to correct the lapses in the admission system on one hand, and latch on it to extort the candidates so as to shore up their

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into the institutions. If the position being expressed by the universities, especially the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), describing the creation of JAMB in 1978, as an

aberration, is anything to go by, the fact that the universities are backed by laws, while the power to admit and graduate students is vested in the Senate of the universities, should be very much in the foreground. Going by this concern and many others bothering on the need to review the statute establishing JAMB by the government, such lacuna will definitely continue to generate heated argument about the status of admission, which it debilitating effects would be detrimental to the collective aspirations and quest to enthrone credible admissions into the nation’s higher institutions of learning. In fact, rather than outlawing universities from having a stake in the admission process

to determine students admitted into their institutions, the Federal Government and other concerned authorities should as a matter of deliberate policy initiate moves that will look into the documents establishing these organs, with a view to addressing any loophole in their operations. Such holistic appraisal of the laws establishing JAMB and the universities is more relevant at this time than pegging the fees charged by the universities for the conduct of the post-UTME screening exercise, since the previous attempt at such policy few years ago, failed due to the attitude of the Vice-Chancellors, who have turned the exercise to money spinning enterprise to make income for their institutions. Equally, it is high time these laws were well sieved, once and for all, in order to eliminate every shortcoming in the system for JAMB and the institutions to perform optimally, as this is only way in which the country could be better for it. In the meantime, any attempt by the government to sweep under the carpet this re-occurring controversy, resulting from agelong duplication of responsibilities, will not only augur for the system, but will further erode confidence in the system and foster further disaffection. The fact remains that if the Federal Government will be bold enough to take the bull by the horns in articulating and putting in proper perspective the duties and limits of the examination body and the universities in the process of placing students into the institutions, it will go a long way in restoring sanity into the nation’s admission process.

POLITICS

The House of Representatives' investigation into allegations of importation of fake and substandard tomato paste into the country by some companies triggered a war of attrition among stakeholders. PHILIP NYAM reports

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Tomato paste: Stakeholders, NAFDAC trade blames

he House of Representatives joint Committee on Health Services, and Drugs and Narcotics, last week held a one-day investigative hearing into importation of fake, substandard and cancer causing tomato paste into Nigeria. The investigative public hearing was consequent upon the resolution of the House on Wednesday May 18, arising from a motion brought by Hon. Ossai Nicholas Ossai on allegations of the existence of the toxic product in the country. The issue at stake was whether fake tomato paste has been imported into country from Asia. While some stakeholders submitted that a large chunk of the item in the Nigerian market is substandard, another group of importers insisted that such products never existed in the nation’s market. There is no doubt that Nigeria has over the years been a dumping ground for various substandard products. But it is most disturbing when the item in question is a consumable because of the health implication. While the importance of tomato in the various cuisines cannot be wished away, its health benefits are also enormous. In fact, research has revealed that tomato helps in preventing heart diseases and it serves as cure to smoking related ailments. Apart from these, it is proven that tomato helps prevents kidney and gall bladder stones in humans. Chairman of the Health Services Committee, Hon. Chike Okafor, in his welcome address at the public hearing stated that as lawmakers, they have the responsibility to protect the lives of the people. He said: “We totally condemn these alleged dangerous killer tomato paste imported into Nigeria and we will carry out a comprehensive investigation into this matter, even if it will take us beyond the borders of Nigeria, including visiting the factories of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) approved Nigeria importers to get to the bottom of this allegation and bring the perpetrators to book” The allegations On one side, some of the stakeholders also took a swipe at the supervising agency, the NAFDAC, which they accused of poor regulatory activities allowing some importers of substandard and cancer-causing tomato paste into Nigeria from Asian countries. These stakeholders included Erisco Foods Limited, Dangote Tomato Processing Factory and Savannah Foods. In their separate presentations, representatives of these companies claimed that there have

Umeofia

been official reports that NAFDAC deliberately feigned ignorance and failed to act. Opening the floodgate of allegations, chairman and CEO of Erisco Foods Limited, Chief Eric Umeofia, said based on a survey conducted by NAFDAC in 2015, 91 percent of imported tomato pastes from China are substandard and dangerous to the health of Nigerians. He said despite the recommendation by the Food Safety Analysis and Nutrition Directorate of NAFDAC to mop up all the fake tomato pastes and immediately ban the importation of the offending products from China, NAFDAC under its former Director General Dr. Paul Orhii and the current acting Director General has "refused to save Nigerians from the scourge of fake tomato pastes in the country." He said: “We are confident that as true representatives of the Nigerian people, you will compel NAFDAC and other agencies to do their job properly. Meanwhile all our attempt to duly inform Nigerians of the existence of this dangerous brands of tomato pastes were frustrated by NAFDAC as they refused to approve our advertisements even after we had adhered to all their suggested amendments. “In our own view, asking the same importers that know the good and standard quality of tomato paste but insisted on importing substandard tomato paste into Nigeria to bring their product samples for analysis is like putting an armed robber on notice before police operation as they will run away and change strategy to rub in more sophisticated way after police must have gone back to their base.” In his presentation, the managing director of Dangote Tomato Processing Factory, Alhaji Abdulkarim Kaita, claimed that they visited some tomato paste making industries in China and that they were shocked to see that bulk tomato concentrate that expired were mixed with good ones to be taken to Nigeria. He wondered why NAFDAC failed to act on its own report since last year even as it did not ban anybody, adding that the China factories have certain

Okafor

low standard for Nigeria, which they saturate the country with. He reasoned that if government did not step in to curb the menace of substandard tomato pastes in the Nigerian markets, there would be serious health and economic problems in the near future. Also toeing the part of Dangote and Erisco, the managing director and CEO of Savannah Integrated Farms, Alhaji Abdullahi Ringim, said although he was not sure if imported tomato pastes cause cancer, he was certain that there are substandard pastes in Nigeria. Ringim narrated that he was in Italy two years ago and saw tomato pastes brought from China but heading to Nigeria in that country. He submitted that he read the NAFDAC report on the survey but that he was shocked that the same report was not acted upon, saying a total ban on importation of the product at present might not save the situation. NAFDAC counters claim But NAFDAC discountenanced the allegations from the major tomato companies in the country. The representative of NAFDAC DG, Prof. Samson Babatunde Adebayo, who is the organisation’s Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, dismissed all the claims made by the stakeholders, saying the NAFDAC has not been compromised by any importer of tomato paste. He said the report in question did not mention that tomato pastes kill people or cause cancer, adding that when they got the information that some tomato pastes in the Nigerian markets were substandard, they carried out an analysis in Lagos. According to him, the analysis revealed that some of the tomato pastes failed to meet the requirements, but that they did not find any injurious or contaminated tomato paste. Twist by importers A new twist was however introduced at the investigation, when a coalition of tomato importers under the auspices of Association of Stakeholders in Edible Consumer

Products in Nigeria (AECPIN) faulted the call for a total ban on importation of tomato, saying it was a de-marketing strategy which will create a monopoly as Nigeria cannot produce enough to satisfy her need for tomatoes. The group also accused Dangote and Erisco Foods of misleading the nation, saying allegation of fake tomato pastes imported into the country was a carefully orchestrated strategy by both companies to enjoy monopoly. The AECPIN, made up of 24 companies in a presentation by Barr. Ikenna Ameachi, argued that the allegation that tomato paste brands in Nigeria are substandard and dangerous for human consumption is an attempt to cause panic in the market place and was made with malicious intent. His said: “Tomato does not cause cancer this much is known; so the terminology “cancer causing tomato” is misleading. If there are ingredients in tomato paste that are carcinogenic, that is a different issue and it is for NAFDAC to identify those components and ban them. “To the best of our knowledge, our products do not contain any ingredients that have been found to be carcinogenic or unfit for consumption”, the group submitted. AECPIN further noted that “where any imported edible consumer hood is found to be dangerous, toxic or harmful to health, it is the sole duty of NAFDAC to recall such goods from the market, seal the warehouses where they are stored and sanction the culpable party accordingly. There is no record that this is so” The group further submitted that “the argument that the tomato may have been smuggled does not hold water either because if the tomato were smuggled that means they did not go through screening and a ban on tomato will not address the issue as they have been operating outside the law ab initio. If the issue is with smuggling, then it is a wild claim to say that 91 percent of tomato paste is poisonous as it is impossible for 91 percent of tomato paste in the market to be smuggled. “It is therefore clear that if there are any substandard tomato products in Nigeria, they did not pass through the stringent due process established by the responsible agencies; they are most probably smuggled and if they were smuggled banning the importation of tomato paste would not be the solution as the smuggling would continue as a matter of course” Alternatively, AECPIN said it advocates a thorough fight against the importation of any substandard edible consumer products into Nigeria but we will not support where people will hide under contrived figures to wage a pseudo battle against its competitors. “We therefore call for thorough investigation using world accepted standards to discover if there are any substandard products and apply the necessary sanctions where necessary,” it said. The report of the investigation is eagerly been awaited by majority of Nigerians, who cannot wait to establish the truth.

WedNESday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Life in the city

The Mega City ...EXCLUSIVE LAGOS MAGAZINE

Keeping fate with God’s injunction

Interview Lagosians must question products, services, says CPC coordinator

21 23

New interactive boards at terminals

Taking Lagos to the next level The state government is currently elevating the status of Lagos to compete with other modern cities all round the world. The latest in the series are the New Interactive Modern Bus Terminal Layouts. VICTOR UDDO reports

bviously, the Lagos State government has taken the lead to set the pace in transportation system in West Africa, especially, with the introduction of the “New Interactive Modern Bus Terminal Layouts” in the state. When New Telegraph went around some parts of Lagos me-

OLUWATOSIN OMONIYI CITY Editor

tosin.omoniyi@newtelegraphonline.com

tropolis to hear the view of Lagosians on this new development, their opinions were quite interesting as they see it from different perspectives. On visitation to the popular Oshodi main general buses and taxis park, majority of the people expressed optimism, on the new initiative of the government on the transportation system. Mutiu Adam, an Islamic scholar, said: “I have seen it at Obalende and it looks beautiful. I hope the government will be able to maintain the infrastructure because lack of maintenance culture has been the bane of our government. However, if they can maintain the system effectively and efficiently, then, let them go ahead and complete the construction as it will put the state further above others in Nigeria. We

Government should be able to maintain the infrastructure

are always praying for him to excel in his duty as the governor of the leading state in Nigeria.” The Islamic Scholar added that the challenge the government will definitely face is that of destitute, hoodlums or ‘area boys’ who will take over some of this places as their place of abode.” For Similoluwa Ola, a christian clergy, he was of the opinion that there is nothing wrong with this kind of development. According to him, it is all over the developed countries of the world. So, if our amiable governor can squarely handle the project, let him go ahead and do the needful. It is going to count for him and his party. His predecessor did marvellously well while he was saddled with the affairs of the state. So, I pray for him to do better than his predecessor. My fear or challenge with this kind of project in Nigeria is that of continuity. If the present governor finishes his tenure, will the next governor continue from where the predecessor stopped?” Speaking with one of the BRT drivers who prefers anonymity, New Telegraph gathered that the

space which was formally used as electronics market at Oshodi, which was recently taken over by the state government has been designated for the “New interactive modern Bus terminal Layout.” According to one of the ticketing officers who also pleaded anonymity, “you can see the workers at the construction site working and the sign board showing what they intend to construct on the former electronics market.” Currently, another new interactive modern Bus terminal Layout can be found at Obalende bus terminal for now.” He said others are coming up gradually. At Ikotun BRT terminal, in a chat with commuters, they said that they have no idea of what “New interactive modern Bus terminal Layout” is all about and so can’t speak on it. But when it was explained, some had some words of advice for the state government. According to Abimbola Adeola, building such infrastructure is not the problem; it is maintaining CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

20 LIFE/MEGA CITY

Goodbye Danfo, Okada!

Friday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

The new Lagos commercial buses

Abiodun Olokode

he city of Lagos will soon assume its full potential as a Megacity in transportation sector as the administration of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is about to phase out yellow commercial buses and motorcycles popularly known as Danfo and “Okada” respectively. According to an investigation plan revealed in the month of March, Lagos State Government wants to phase out commercial buses and motorcycles in order to improve and modernise its transportation sector. However, these 14-seater commercial buses are to be replaced with fully air conditioned 30-seater mini buses that would be favourable and friendly to passengers. Last month, the Lagos State Commissioner of Transportation, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, affirmed the plan of Lagos State Government to phase out commercial buses during the 2016 annual ministerial press briefing to commemorate the one year of Governor Akinwumi Ambode’s assumption of office in Alausa, Ikeja. According to a commercial bus driver, Mr. Kingsley Opare, most commercial bus drivers are not aware of the plan of Lagos State government to phase out commercial buses in Lagos State, but if truly the government is going to phase out commercial buses in Lagos State transportation system, it means they (commercial bus drivers) will be out of job which amount to suffering. He said: “This development will affect me because I will not be able to feed myself and cater for my family. I don’t know the plan Lagos State Government has for us drivers. But I don’t think I can work for Lagos State government as a salary earner.”

He added that the Lagos State Government’s policy is quite different from that of a private individual. “So, when commercial bus drivers work for the government of Lagos State, they are not going to have the freedom like that of working with private companies or individuals and pay them a particular amount of money at the end of each day or week which is called “delivery” in transportation system.” However, some commercial bus drivers might decide to drive for the government if their conditions are not too high for them to handle. But, it

Lagos should operate a mixed transportation system

Confusion caused by Danfo commercial buses

is not proper for the government to just take full ownership and control of transportation system in Lagos State, according to him. He is of the suggestion that Lagos State Government should operate a mixed transportation system; they can bring in their new minibuses and still leave private companies or individuals who drive commercial buses to carry on with their daily transactions. A commercial bus driver, Mr. Kazeem Waheed, said: “We have been hearing that Lagos State government wants to phase out commercial buses and All Progressives Congress (APC) government will always

do whatever they decide to do. But I believe that they are just doing things without having us at the back of their minds. When this development is fully implemented by Lagos State Government, all commercial bus drivers will be out of job and owners will also lose their sources of income; they will be left with the option of selling their buses at cheaper prices. He added: “The conditions that come along with the giving out of the new mini-buses by Lagos State Government will determine if commercial bus drivers will work for the government or seek for means of living elsewhere.

LIFE/IN THE CITY 21

Friday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Muslim faithful Ramadam observing the prayers

Muslims all over the world began the month of Ramadan, a 30-day fasting period, last week. EMMANUEL UTI looks at all the sides of the holy month and its attendant expectations

ound the World since last week, and till the next 21 days, mosques will be getting filled daily as Muslims gather to observe the Holy month of Ramadan, which to them, is a month dedicated and consecrated to God alone for their purification. It is a period characterized by fasting, alms giving and many other sacred rites as many Muslims are seen to be holy during the season. Nigeria, a diversified country in religion is among the many countries of the World observing this season, especially in the northern parts as in some south western parts. Of the western states observing Ramadan, Lagos is not an exception. In Lagos, the Ramadan period is observed and marked by fairness and tranquility. Muslims are seen to act differently from their normal ways of life. Many, who see themselves as true worshippers, abstain from gangsterism, drunkenness, bad speeches and evil acts. Hence, they act decently in Lagos during Ramadan. Some, who are identified as hoodlums and touts in their respective communities reduce their violence, so as to access the blessings of God through meekness and purification.

Keeping fate with Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s injunction Also, the average Muslim in Lagos, who is usually choked up with the stress of daily activities, would have adjusted his belt by praying five times daily. It is now observed that with the current situation in the country, Lagos Muslims have been observing this period with all diligence as there have been increases in alms giving and observation of several rites among them. One Alhaji Shiyanbola, who owns a mosque and an Arabic school at Ojokoro, said that Ramadan was instituted by God and Muslims see it as a part of worship which they must render to God. He said that in spite of the distraction in Lagos which is the highest when compared to other states in Nigeria, many devout Muslims complete their fast sanctified and seek their way to God's promised paradise through purity. He explained that "everything that can make a Muslim less spiritual during this period is available in Lagos. Is it the many beer parlours, hotels, gamble shops and others? There are just too many but we Muslims try to do what is right by pleasing God. In turn, he will also bless us." The way Ramadan is observed in other states in Nigeria seems to be higher than that of Lagos, probably because they are Muslim states alone. The reason Lagos observation of the period is different is that Lagos is populated with people from many origins unlike Kwara State for example, where a greater percentage are Muslims. In northern states, the first food before the fast is usually given at public centres, and the fruits for breaking the fast is also given, but not in Lagos because it is not a state for Muslims alone. During an interview with the head of Quareeb mosque, Meiran, Ustaz Moshood Oladerin, he said Lagos Muslims are like every other

It is a period characterized by fasting, alms giving and sacred rites

Assorted foods for Ramadan season

true Muslims. He said that they all believe it was in the month of Ramadan that God showed the Prophet Muhammad the Quran. At that, he said, all true followers of Islam are to abstain from the pleasures of the world in order that God may forgive them of their sins and grant them paradise. Quoting from the Quran, he also said that the Prophet Muhammad ordered that no follower should engage in drinking alcohol, having sex, blasphemy and doing anything detrimental to another person. He advised that Muslims should shun little enjoyments which may cost them much. Looking at the economic situation, coupled with their everyday routine and Ramadan, Alfa Luqman Abdul Azeez, an Arabic teacher in Lagos, said that all engaging Muslims would cope and eventually survive all through this fasting period.

Luqman had asserted that even on a normal day, one would get stressed up while trying either to wait for BRT or climb the pedestrian bridge. "Though, it may not be easy, but because Ramadan means a lot to us, not only here in Lagos, but in other parts of the world also, we will see that we observe it with all diligence and God will strengthen us to enjoy it to the end", he said. Talking about how Muslims manage to cope during Ramadan in Lagos also, Ustaz Moshood said that during Ramadan, the soul of every Muslim will be energized and will therefore be strong enough to do the will of God because the month comes with peace. He then opined that all Lagos Muslims, despite their stress, would successfully complete their CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

22 LIFE/MEGA CITY

Friday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Taking Lagos to the next level

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

it that the government will have to look into before going into it so that it would not become a “white Elephant” project that will be abandoned later.” For Chucks Adosa, a security expert, he is of the opinion that “Lagos State government must collaborate with the Police in terms of more provision of security personnel and latest modern day scientific monitoring gadgets for ease of checking unwanted elements around their facilities. If this security issue is settled, then the government can go ahead with the project.” Another angle to the success of this project according to Olu Olaosebikan, an Electrical and Electronics Engineerthe best way the state government can sustain their investment on the project is to have their locally trained Engineers in the best practice and find way of remunerating them very well and secondly, to have access to spare parts for the equipment so as to avoid the challenge of parts replacement when they become faulty.” An attempt to reach Mr. Fagunwa, the Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Transport, Lagos to comment on the development and shed more light on the project proved abortive as his GSM line has been switched off for over four days. Neither did he respond to the text mesAnother interactive board at Obalende terminal sages sent to him.

Lagos Nigeria bus rapid transit-BRT

Keeping fate with God’s injunction

Assorted fruits for the Ramadan period CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

fast. Nevertheless, despite what may come as a hindrance to their fasting during the day, as stressed as they may be during the evenings, Muslims gather in unity to seek the face of God. On several occasions in Lagos, many mosques are usually filled with people in the evenings ready for prayer. There, they pray their last prayer for the day before breaking their fast. After the prayer around 7pm, they are seen to be sharing fruits within themselves as they break, which is a part of Islam-Zakat. Ramadan, which falls in the month of Hijrah, the ninth month in the Islamic calender, is the fourth pillar of Islam. According to Sanni Shukurah, it is a sacred month where all able and matured Muslims are enjoined to fast. The 29 or 30 days fast is meant for worship as Muslims abstain from all forms of impurity to serve God. It is believed that during Ramadan fast, God will pour out his blessings without measure to Muslims and their place of habitation. Highlighting some of the blessings Ramadan brings, Shukurah said, "It is a holy month where our Lord has promised us security and peace all through, not only in Ramadan, but after it also. During Ramadan, there is hardly any turbulence. As such, both Muslims and non Muslims enjoy the blessing of protection from Allah." Furthermore, Ustaz, Moshood added that one of the blessings Ramadan engen-

Preparing to break the day's fasting

ders is the decrease in crime rate. He said that no sincere Muslim will engage in anything leading to crime because they know that God rewards based on deeds. As such, crime will be reduced because everyone wants to be blessed. "Since many Muslims are in Lagos, and are engaging in the fast, God will increase the productivity of the land. He will make every where safe", he added. "My message to Muslims residing in Lagos is to not be weary, neither should they be

Sharing foods during the Ramadan period

tired, but continue by labouring spiritually with the goal of Paradise in view. Do not fast for fasting sake. Let it be done with a purpose and let us remember this state and our country at large." "I know after this Ramadan, Lagos will turn the envy of other states in the country suddenly. Though Lagos State might be going through some problems now, but by the end of this Ramadan, God will solve the problems and heal our land. As the governor is trying his best, may God see him

through", he concluded. On the other part in Lagos, however, things have changed with the start of Ramadan five days ago. A food vendor at Ogba had said that edible things, especially fast foods, do not sell like how on a normal day because of the fasting. She said she reduces the quantity of the food she cooks now to avoid wastage. According to her, she no longer fills her pots again since all and sundry won't patronise her apart from the non Muslims. A trader at Ile-Epo market, Abdullahi Olashina, said although the Ramadan is not affecting his business, it is affecting the market as there have been increase in the price of services and some things. He said, most people who carry loads are Muslims, and they won't like to weaken themselves without being paid well; hence, they either not work or they work and increase the price of their services. But for grocers like Okeke Mary and Oluneye, they make more sales now on fruits, especially on fruits like cucumber, oranges and apples as a result of Ramadan. Okeke and Oluneye, who stay at different bus stops in Lagos, said that whenever the transporters want to go for evening prayers, they patronise them. After Ramadan ends in 25 days time, activities will come back fully normal in Lagos State again, and 71 days later, the Muslims will celebrate Ileya festival which is a thanksgiving festival.

LIFE/IN THE CITY 23

Friday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Joshua Nggada Yakubu is the 2013 best coordinator in the Consumer Protection Council of Nigeria (CPC) and an accomplished administrator. Presently, he is the Head, CPC, Lagos State. He spoke to EZURIKE UGOCHUKWU on consumer rights and privileges and the dangers of patronising substandard products

Lagosians must question products, services, says CPC coordinator

As the name implies, ‘Consumer Protection Council’ what are some of the roles expected of the Agency to play in the life of the vulnerable Nigerian consumers? CPC is mandated by the laws of the land to provide protection for the consumer. It has also been given the authority in a wide variety of issues concerning the welfare of consumers. So, if a consumer complains to us, we take the issue up. We investigate; we invite the manufacturer of the product or service for redress because the consumer has several rights and several responsibilities. They are contained in our documents. They must insist on them. What are some of those consumers’ rights and how best can a consumer insist on them? Clearly, the right of Nigerian consumers are; the Right to satisfaction of basic needs, The Right to Redress, Right to Information, Right to choose, Right to Consumer Education, Right to Consumer Representation and Right to a Healthy Environment. As in the Right to Satisfaction, goods and services must meet the standard of quality promised, which goes to say, if I promise you that if you buy a particular product, you can now be able to transfer money to your friends free of charge. If that is the message I give you, and if you buy that product and it doesn’t do that, then your right have been infringed on. So, you must insist on your right by reporting your transactions to the CPC. We will be of help since you have seen the message has been distorted. We will find out. All these are contained in our information Brochure. How will your agency know when a consumer or manufacturer has raised a false alarm? We gather our information through both ways. Before we move out on a case, the consumer must have had an issue with the product. That is one source. If the consumer complains to us and we identify the product(s), look at the product, whether it meets the specific requirement by the sector regulator. If it hasn’t, automatically, it has fallen foul of the law. There is no way it

Yakubu

can meet the sector regulator’s requirement, and cause problem to the consumers. The regulator is sure that if her parameters are abided by, every consumer will be saved. They will not give you a false standard. For instance, for a consumer to get in contact with some of the electric cables in the market and still have issues, it means in the first place, the manufacturer haven’t complied with that sector regulator’s regulations, haven’t complied with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guiding manufacturing of cables. You are foul of the regulatory agency’s oversight functions. CPC, NAFDAC and SON, are their services in any way overlapping or they maintain some specific services to the society? CPC is the apex consumer regulatory body of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We are not product specific; we are not sector specific; we are consumer specific meaning all other sectors (NAFDAC and SON) look at the products or the processes in their sectors. They regulate that sector. We don’t regulate any sector; we protect the interest of the consumer. So, our own is consumer focused while theirs are products or services focus. And as a single consumer, you go through all the sectors of the economy. You

We don’t act on matters until we get complaints

consume products; you consume services. In the telecommunication or aviation industries, we are looking at the satisfaction of you as a whole we cut across all these sectors. SON, as well as NAFDAC work on their own. They are sector regulators. They set standard for manufacturers who operate in either the food or the beverages; or in other sectors of the manufacturing industry. However, food and beverages are under the direct supervision of NAFDAC because anything you are going to consume, NAFDAC must certify. If you are manufacturing cable, you are not under the specific control of NAFDAC. Rather, SON, because they are the one to set standard to all those manufacturing non-edible products. So, you must comply by their standard. They are the one to tell you this product does not meet our specific requirement or this is the requirement for it to be able to be sold in the Nigerian market. As such, you need her certification. SON has four different models to guide manufacturers of nonedible products. They know their responsibilities and roles in the various sectors of the economy. As a federal agency in Lagos assigned with the protection of consumers interest, to what extent do you think Lagosians in particular and

Nigerians in general are benefitting from these rights? They are taking good advantage of our services. Presently, there are many complaints before us. However, they need more education because of the medium of communication in place; we have been strengthening our strategies for easier access. Though we don’t act on matters until we get complaint but there are at times we have to act in the general interest. We go to the market on our own, may be, on desired information on products and services like we know expired products are not offered for sale. How do we know them? By simply reading the label that has both the manufacturing and expiring dates. If you don’t remove them, we will help you remove them because they should not be. In most of our sensitization activities, we have come across some expired products, and the store owners don’t insist they must sale them. It’s only an unscrupulous persons that would want to benefit from what will give people health issues. And you know Nigerians, they like cheap things. If you see an apple that is supposed to be sold at N100 being sold for N50, something is wrong somewhere. Always try to build a discerning mind.

24 LIFE/MEGA CITY

Friday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Coping with hard times in the face of the ever-increasing prices of commodities, especially food stuff, has become worrisome. Oluwatosin Adepoju reports

Basket of tatase and other unripe pepper on display

Customers negotiating baskets of tomato at the popular Mile 12 Market

The tomato burden situation of things in the economy, and I do that so that I can also pay my attendants and settle other necessary bills to sustain my business”, she said. Also to Mrs. Orimolade Christiana, the issue of increment is a serious thing as there was nothing she could do to augment her affected income. She said that in the case of tomatoes, which its costliness seems to be hitting hard on her food business income, she has heard lot of things on the causes which ranges from the virus; tuta absoluta to the increment in the price of fuel which most wholesalers complain affects the cost of transporting the commodity. She said although on yearly basis ,this is the season when the tomatoes is always expensive; this year’s costliness seems overwhelming as it has drastically reduced her sales, income and stopped her from getting services of attendants in her restaurant since she was unable to cope with payments. She also said that a big basket of tomatoes during the yearly season of scarcity should be about N4,000 to N7,500, but now it is about N38,000 or thereabout. Mrs .Funmilayo, another food vendor, explained that she had to substitute the fresh tomatoes for the use of tin tomatoes which the price seems more bearable and there is now an effect of the shortage on her sales as her customers also complained of the decrease in the quantity and quality of food she sells to them this season, compared to times before the shortage. Unfortunately, most of her customers buy on credit, which she sells to them in empathy as to retain them and avoid wastage as she may not

be able to sell all she prepared in a day as usual. “Before the whole tight situation, I go to the market weekly with about N40, 000 to buy foodstuffs for my weekly sales, but now I hardly gather N15, 000 to buy the foodstuffs. It seems the price of everything in the market has now increased. Even a bag of rice we used to buy for maximum price of N8,000 is now been sold for N15,300. So, we have no choice than to pray for abundance of food stuff,” she said. Another food vendor Mrs. Salako Eunice at Olota Captain area of Lagos State, said that the tomato issue and the increment in the cost of other foodstuff commodities has made many of her colleagues who are also into food business to windup due to inability to find alternatives and cope with the situation. “Before, we buy the small basket of tomatoes between N4,000 to N5,000 but now it is between N20,000Naira to N22,000. Even the tin tomatoes we rely on as substitutes has increased in price though we manage to buy it to improvise but the taste is still not as satisfactory as the fresh ones from the farm. We also add dried pepper to supplement it and we are trying to make sure the taste of our stew is still the same”. She said. Commenting on the effect of the increment on the food vendors’ patrons, Mrs. Abosede Olatunji, at a canteen at Agege, Lagos, said that the alternate means sought by the vendors in using more of dried pepper with less tomatoes does not really make the food delicious and encouraging as before. She explained that it makes their stew too peppery which is very detrimental to the health status of any consumer who is an ulcer patient. On the issue of tomato retailers, Mrs.

Taiye Bello, a food vendor, said that the percentage at which they sell a basket of tomatoes now is a threefold of the former price. “Although it is a norm that every year, there is always a period when the price of tomatoes increase, then we sell at least a basket of tomatoes for a least of N14,000 but this year, we have sold the same quantity for between N32,000 to N38,000. So, also is other pepper which use to be sold at the price of N20,000 to N21,000, but this year, we have sold for prices which ranges from N38,000 to N41,000.” According to her, she heard that it is the high cost of transporting the commodity from the farms in northern areas, caused by the increase in the fuel price which has caused the shortage of the commodity and made it costly for them to buy. “ Confirming the increment in the price, Abubakar Dan Naziru, big time tomato dealer at the Ile-Epo, Oke-Odo market Area of Lagos, said that the prices truly increased due to the shortage but are now gradually reducing. He said that the big basket that used to cost N45, 000 from Kano is now about N35, 000. In addition, he said hopefully, in the next four to five months, there is going to be much increase in supply as some of their men have gone back to the northern towns like Kano and Kaduna to farm and will come back with bountiful harvests while the prices will come back to normal. On the contrary to the comments that the shortage of tomatoes is affected by a virus, he said that he doesn’t believe in that as he knows that it is the season of which the commodity is expected to be costly and scarce.

QUOTE

OF THE WEEK

Going by what we have today, we still have a long way to go, and that is to say that we are not practising true federalism. What we owe Nigeria today is nothing but true federalism and for us to be able to achieve true federalism, we have to work hard for it.” Lagos State Governor, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode during the 23rd Anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by late Bashorun Moshood Abiola.

IN NUMBERS JU NE

n every market in the state, Lagosians are lamenting the high cost of food stuff and mostly tomatoes; the major necessary food commodity. The hardship resulting from the tight situation of the economy is fast becoming a thorn in the flesh, which obviously the citizens have to bear with perseverance. The situation continuously evokes expression of discontent among different people across the country, especially the average citizen, who is burdened with expenses on foodstuffs. But those lamenting most are food vendors within Lagos metropolis. They lamented that the outrageous price of tomatoes has affected the taste of their food and rich ways of cooking. According to Mrs. Sakariyau Iyabo, who is a manager of one of the biggest restaurants, ‘Big Mummy Canteen’ in Agege, Lagos, the tight circumstances facing the foodstuff market this period is one of the most serious she has ever experienced in the past 20 years of which she has been in the food business, and it seems there are no better alternatives to sustain the business than to persevere and adjust to the situation pending the period things calm down. “We heard that the shortage in the supply of tomatoes is caused by a virus called tuta absoluta , and that has resulted in the high price of the available ones. As it is now, the pepper we use to buy for about N3,500 has now suddenly increased to N36,000, and even the bag of rice we use to buy for N8,000 is now sold for about N18,500. The only alternative we employ which I know that no other food vendor in the whole of Lagos can deny is the use of dried pepper with tin tomatoes which we now use in more quantity instead of fresh tomatoes, and as for me , I know how to improvise so that my soup doesn’t taste different from the usual one I prepare before the whole thing became tight.” Furthermore, she said that the increment has so far affected the price she sold certain quantities of food before. “However, the customers complied with the increment since they understood the

5.5 million school children to benefit from the One-Meal-ADay programme

WEDNESDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Money

Business What's news Shareholders fault FRC’s audit committee rule p.26

Korea to invest $17.2bn in Nigeria, others by 2025 p.26

Tough economy swells rumour on fresh bank consolidation

Investor Taking capital market to next level with laws’ retooling

28 30

Rates Dashboard INFLATION RATE April 2016...................................13.7% March 2016...............................12.8% February 2016............................11.4%

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

EXCHANGE RATE

(BDC as at June 10 )

(Interbank as at June 10)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N358 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N515 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N405

l Foreign Reserves – $26.401bn as at 8/6/2016

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

Source: CBN

L-R: Company Secretary, Total Nigeria Plc, Mrs. Olubunmi Popoola-Mordi; Chairma, Mr. Momar Nguer; In-Coming Chairman, Mr. Stanislas Mittelman, Mr. Stanislas Mittelman and Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Jean-Philippe Torres, during the company’s Annual General Meeting in Lagos…at the weekend. PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

Tough economy: Banks cut branch expansion plans COST CUTTING The Business Desk Ayodele Aminu

Lenders are converting branches into self-service centres

Deputy Editor (Business)

Bayo Akomolafe

Asst. Editor (Maritime)

Sunday Ojeme

Asst. Editor (Insurance)

Tony Chukwunyem

Asst. Editor (Money Market)

Dayo Ayeyemi Property Editor

Adeola Yusuf Energy Editor

Wole Shadare Aviation Editor

Chris Ugwu

Capital Market Editor

Abdulwahab Isa Finance Editor

Taiwo Hassan

Industry, Agric & Brands Editor

Kunle Azeez

Senior Correspondent

Chuks Onuanyin Energy

Nnamdi Amadi Reporter

Johnson Adebayo

Asst Production Editor

Tony Chukwunyem

eposit Money Banks (DMBs) in the country are cutting down on plans to open more branches as part of cost cutting efforts to cope with the tough times, particularly in the industry and generally in the economy, New Telegraph has learnt. According to sources in the industry, in a bid to drastically reduce costs, most lenders have decided to slow down on their branch expansion plans and, in some cases, have even completely frozen such plans. A general manager with a tier one bank, who did not want to be named, confirmed this development. He said: “I can tell you that the business environment is so tough now that unlike in the past when

banks used to scramble to outdo each other in terms of who has the most number of branches, the focus today is all about reducing costs. For instance, instead of the four new branches we planned to open in Lagos this year, we have reduced the number to two. “It is quite expensive to open, equip, run and maintain a branch, so, banks are trying not to do that anymore unless they are very confident that such a branch will start to generate reasonable profit within a short period,” he stated. Besides, he revealed the bank where he works was now concentrating on opening smaller, self service centres which, according to him, are far less expensive to set up than the conventional bank branches. “That (self service centre) is the future of banking. I agree that given the level of development of our society, brick and mortar banking will remain prevalent for some time to come, but any bank that wants to survive the current hard times will have no choice but to cut down on its branch expansion,” he said. It will be recalled that in addition to sacking over 3,000 staff since the beginning of the year, lenders

60 million Being the number of Nigerians that don’t have a bank account

such as First City Monument Bank Plc (FCMB) and Skye Bank Plc have also shut down unprofitable branches. Analysts attribute the development to the fact that both lenders did not grow organically but expanded via their respective mergers and acquisitions. Significantly, the country’s biggest lender by assets, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, is also reported to be planning to shut down some of its over 800 branches nationwide as part of efforts to reduce cost. The lender’s Head, Media and External Relations, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Mr. Babatunde Lasaki, was reported a few weeks ago as saying that the bank was in the process of meeting regulatory requirements that would allow it to change the designation of some of the branches. He disclosed that none of the affected branches would be totally shut down, as they would only be converted to cash centres and ebanking centres. Similarly, FCMB announced last February that in a bid to cut costs, it had laid off staff, as well as shut CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

WEDNESDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS |news

Shareholders fault FRC’s audit committee rule CONTROVERSY The draft rule states that audit committee chairman must be a member of certified professional accounting body in the country

Chris Ugwu

ome shareholders of quoted companies in the country have faulted the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) over a draft rule spelling out that the qualification of individuals aspiring to

Banks cut branch expansion plans CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

down not less than 10 per cent of its branches nationwide. According to the bank’s Group Head, Corporate Affairs, Mr. Diran Olojo, the lender has decided to shut any branch where it has two very close to each other, in the face of rising operational costs. Even lenders like Standard Chartered Bank, which has only 42 branches in Nigeria, is also said to have concluded plans to embark on rationalisation of its branches. Industry watchers point out that the branch rationalisation plans of the banks could pose a threat to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s target of achieving 80 per cent financial inclusion in the country by 2020. According to a report by Financial Research Institute, only 30 million Nigerians have bank accounts out of the 90 million sampled. This means that 60 million Nigerians don’t have bank accounts. However, in a chat with New Telegraph, the Principal Consultant, Henates and Associates, Mr Henry Atenaga, pointed out that banks are not always quick to take the decision to shut branches because they realise that they could need such branches in future. He said: “It is true that the business environment is difficult now, but it is not always going to be like this. What if a bank decides to shut down a branch and, maybe in a two years’ time, discovers that the economy is in a much better shape and it wants to expand, it will not be that easy setting up new branches all over again.”

the position of audit committee chairmen of quoted firm must be members of certified professional accounting body. The draft rule was contained in a circular tagged ‘Transitional Concessions Agreed between the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) regarding Rules 1& 2 of the FRC’s Rules’ published by the NSE on March 29, 2016, with reference no: NSE/ LARD/LRD/CIR5/16/03/29, stating that ‘Chairman of audit committee to annual report, financial statements, accounts, financial report, returns and other documents of a financial nature, shall be a professional member of an accounting body established by Act of the National Assembly in Nigeria.’ The draft rule, however, noted that the current chairman of the audit committee shall be permitted to attest to accounts of financial nature regardless of whether he is a professional member of an accounting body or not for the current financial year only.

It added that the foregoing concessionary arrangement shall apply only to entities, which in the case of a holding company, shall include its subsidiaries: (i) Which are not currently in court with the FRC and/or having any of its director(s) currently holding FRCN numbers that have been suspended by the FRC. Every subsequent annual report, financial statements, accounts, financial report, returns and other documents of a financial nature of the audit committee shall be attested to by a chairman, who is a professional member of an accounting body established by Act of National Assembly in Nigeria in compliance with FRC Rule 2.” The FRC based its argument on the premise that professional accountants are more reliable, saying that their education and training allow for their judgment to be relied upon. However, shareholders groups who spoke to New Telegraph frowned at the guideline, which they described as unacceptable and called for its

immediate reversal. According to them, the FRC rules is in contravention of section 359(3) and (6) of Companies and Allied Matters Act, Cap. C20. National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), Sir Sunny Nwosu, said that the rule is unacceptable. He noted that there is a difference between rules and laws and where there is clash, the law takes precedence over the rule. He insisted that those provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) supersede FRC regulation and, as such, the Council should reverse the regulation, which he said runs contrary to CAMA requirements. “FRC don’t have to impose a chairman on audit committee, it is law that established CAMA, which said that one person among the committee shall be financial literate and it did not say the person who is financial literate should be the chairman of the committee. It is just like in the board where everybody is director and they pick one of them to

be the chairman of directors. “We don’t want an imposition of chairmanship of audit committee unless the CAMA said it is the position,” Nwosu said. Speaking in the same vein, the President, Constance Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Mallam Mikail, corroborated Nwosu’s views. He said: “CAMA did not say that it is only when you are a chartered accountant that will make you be a chairman of audit committee. To me, what FRC is trying to put up is not a welcome idea. I think FRC want to create jobs for their colleagues. We don’t have to be an accountant to read and understand a financial statement. We reject the rule in its entirety and will take legal action if it is not reversed.” Mikail noted that what FRC need to do is to put in place punitive measure to deal with any member who did not participate substantially in audit activities, as many tend to take the oversight functions with levity.

L-R: Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu explaining a point of interest on Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources to the CEO PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc, Mr Christos Giannopoulos, when the later paid him a courtesy visit in his office

Korea to invest $17.2bn in Nigeria, others by 2025 ENERGY Korea is to rescue some African countries from epileptic power supply in a decade Bayo Akomolafe

he Republic of Korea is to focus on Nigeria, its top export market and four African countries, by investing $17.2 billion between 2016 and 2025. The four other countries, according to Korean Midland Power Company (Komipo), are Mozambique, Kenya, Ethiopia

and Uganda. Korea said that its power company, Korean Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), would invest in water and electricity. Already, the trade volume between Nigeria and Korea has exceeded $4.4 billion between 2014 and the first quarter of 2016. KEPCO had launched a pilot project in Mozambique last November, to supply electricity and water to households, schools and community centers in a local village and help it become self-sufficient in energy use. The power company has been engaged in a similar project in Nigeria since 2013 and its know-how from the project is

being utilised in the Mozambican village. The project in Nigeria is on the operation and maintenance of the Egbin Power Plant for a period of five years. Also, last month, the company signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) for power generation, transmission and transformation facility construction. It also signed an MoU with the Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU) for power grid efficiency improvement and cooperation in the field of new energy. In addition, the company had concluded another MoU with South Korean transformer manufacturer, KORICA and

Ugandan company, Segken Services, to set the stage for its participation in power grid-related projects to be launched there in the future. The Korean power company would also take a leading role in the 4,000 MW nuclear power plants operation from its very first stage till 2033. It plans to make use of the energy sector MoU recently signed between the South Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Ministry of Energy of Kenya, which is expected to lead to South Korean energy companies’ participation in geothermal power generation and nuclear power station construction projects in Kenya.

WEDNESDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

fct business watch

ready receiving attention at very senior government levels as the states, through the National Economic Council, they have been asked to replicate same, there are still major assignments to be delivered based on the mandate given to the unit. The minister called for cooperation from all stakeholders in both the public and private sector of the economy so as to ensure that Nigerians get value for money in the spending of government’s resources.

Experts have offered divergent views on the desirability or otherwise of the Efficiency Unit floated by Finance Minister, Kemi Adeosun, seven months ago as government’s alternative mechanism for checking the rise in recurrent expenditure. ABDULWAHAB ISA reports

he intention of the Presi- President Buhari dent Muhammadu Buhari’s administration to reduce the cost of governance drastically is not in doubt. The pruning down of the number of ministries to 25 from 42 and, by extension, the reduction in the number of permanent secretaries, is a pointer to that. Aside the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), an agency of government saddled with the responsibility of setting guidelines to ensure transparency, efficiency and value for money, are brought to bear in government’s procurements, fice (DMO). the present administration has introSpeaking with journalists recently duced Efficiency Unit (E-Unit), an- in Abuja, the Unit Leader said the other mechanism for checking rise Federal Government would make in government’s expenditure across a reasonable savings from procureministries, department and agencies ment as actual implementation of the of government (MDAs). policy gets underway. Introduced late last year, the E“The strategy is to know the prices Unit, domiciled at Federal Ministry of various items at which producers of Finance, is expected to review all and suppliers sell to other users, espegovernment’s overhead expenditure, cially in the private sector. That will reduce wastage, promote efficiency guide us in producing a template of and ensure quantifiable savings for prices within, which public purchases can be made. the country. “We will ensure strict compliance Efficiency Unit to the guidelines by all MDAs because The E-Unit of the Federal Ministry that is the only way to maintain sanof Finance is the brain child of Mrs. ity and guarantee value-for-money, Adeosun. It was set up as a result of in the interest of the Nigerian pubthe expenditure pattern of the Fed- lic. We are aware that in the private eral Government, which leaves recur- sector, when purchases are made, rent expenditure far above capital ex- the volume usually affects the unit penditure in the ratio of 84/16. price. We want to see that happen in Essentially, the E-Unit is supposed the purchases to be made by MDAs, as to identify and eliminate wasteful we go forward because procurement spending, duplication and other inef- is usually made in large volumes by ficiencies in ministries, departments the MDAs,” Oniha said. She stated that the Unit would neand agencies. In addition, it’s expected to identify best practices in procure- gotiate for favourable terms, adding ment and financial management and that primarily, price would be a focal share such knowledge with the MDAs point “because we are going to get a to ensure its adoption. discount for being a large buyer. From Over all, the Unit is established to the study we have done, we have disblock resource leakages that are not covered that for some items, we can related to wage or overhead expendi- really get very favourable terms. For ture. Such financial wastes include instance, if you are a big consumer but not limited to over bloated travel of vehicles, the period of warranty costs, entertainment, events, printing, and free-service is longer than the IT consumables and stationery. terms given to someone who bought only one.” The officials Espousing on ways to block reThe E-Unit has a committee source wastage in MDAs, she exchaired by the Finance minister while plained: “The Federal Government other members are drawn from both is running on a zero budgeting policy. public and private sectors. What that means is that for every deThe Head of Service of the Fed- mand that an MDA puts in the buderation; Accountant-General of the get, it has to justify why it needs it. Federation; Auditor-General of the The question then is, how are we Federation and Director, Budget Of- sure that these items are procured fice of the Federation are members of because each year we see them rethe committee while its day to day af- occurring in the budget. One major fairs are under the purview of Project aspect of the reform going on now is Leader, Mrs. Patience Oniha, a former the overhaul of the internal controls. Director at the Debt Management Of“The MDAs have Internal Audit

Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun

Experts differ on desirability of new Efficiency Unit The eightmonth old E-Unit of the Federal Ministry of Finance is still a work in progress

officers who are supposed to validate those stuff before payments are made. We admit that there have been weaknesses but those in that unit are going to be empowered to make sure that there is absolute compliance such that they don’t sign documents to say that items have been delivered when in actual fact, they were not delivered. It won’t be business as usual.” Reducing personnel’s allowance As part of its responsibilities of trimming government’s expenditure, especially on recurrent side, the E-Unit issued a new circular on travelling and sitting allowances to MDAs. The unit projected that the government could save up to N14 billion annually from reduction in travels and sitting allowances. Oniha, the Head of E-Unit, gave the assurance last week in Abuja while speaking at a meeting of the unit with the minister of finance. “There is a circular on travels and sitting allowances and between them, we hope to achieve a saving of N14 billion per annum, as we expect to continue other initiatives we are working on,” she said. The minister of finance corroborated, saying that the government is working on guidelines aimed at reducing the high expenditure on rent and office buildings by agencies of government. Lamenting the huge cost being incurred by government on residential and office buildings, she noted that between 2012 and 2014, an average yearly sum of N3.55 billion was spent on rent by government. “The average annual expenditure on rent for the three-year period 2012 to 2014 was N3.55 billion. The issuance of price guidelines and initiatives for reducing expenditure on rent on office and residential buildings will be the primary focus in the coming months.” Adesosun said while the achievements of the Efficiency Unit is al-

Experts differ Experts have expressed divergent views on the relevance of the Unit. Speaking with New Telegraph by telephone, Developmental Economist, Odilim Enwagbara, described the establishment of the E- Unit as a right step in right direction. “The Unit is essentially conceived to deal with issue of mini procurement, which is fast turning to a drain pipe on government resources. We have seen in previous situation where MDAs inflated cost of getting diesel for generator. But with Efficiency Unit, it will ensure that the right cost is secured; it will ensure items are not repeated year in year out in budget proposal, thereby minimising leakages. It’s a very good initiative, which will ensure that MDAs finances go through screening. So, I welcome the development,” Enwagbara said. Head, Banking & Finance Department, Nassarawa State University, Dr. Uche Uwaleke, said that any measure put in place with the intention of minimising waste in public resources is a welcome development. He said that the EUnit is not a new concept in public finance management, adding that the finance minister must have borrowed the idea from United Kingdom where she had previously worked. He disagreed that the Unit’s functions are duplication of the duties performed by BBP. “I don’t agree with the view that the E-Unit is a duplication of functions performed by the BBP. I think they both compliment and the Unit establishment is in line with the transparent posture of the present administration,” he said. However, Director-General, Institute of Fiscal Studies of Nigeria, Mr. Godwin Ighedosa, thinks otherwise. According to him, while it is necessary for the government to establish mechanisms to curtail resource wastage, enforcement of the rule to achieve result is also very critical. “The issue is do you need to create a new agency when you already have one in existence performing similar functions? We created new agency whose functions overlap existing old one. The public procurement 2007 Act clearly spelt out standards on procurement, which was based on World Bank recommendations of 2005. I don’t see the need to create another unit, which essentially duplicates the functions of BBP,” Ighedosa said. Conclusion Though it has set an ambitious savings target in excess of N14 billion annually for government, the eight months old E-Unit of the Federal Ministry of Finance is still a work in progress. Its effectiveness and proper evaluation of its performance should be measured a year after.

WEDNESDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS |MONEY

Worsening macroeconomic conditions have intensified speculation of looming consolidation in the banking industry writes TONY CHUKWUNYEM.

Tough economy swells rumour on fresh bank consolidation with respective capital bases of N10 billion and N25 billion.

t was the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Sterling Bank, Mr. Yemi Adeola, who first predicted that the increasingly harsh business environment could compel some banks to consider mergers and acquisitions (M&A) as a way of surviving the tough times. At an interactive session with journalists last December, the top flight banker said that the slowdown in the economy, coupled with the regulatory headwinds that banks were grappling with, had provided opportunities for another round of consolidation in the industry. Specifically, he said Sterling Bank was open to merger or acquisition talks to build scale and cut costs in order to counter weak market conditions caused by slow economic growth. He said: “For us at Sterling Bank, we are always open to mergers or acquisitions; we are open to anything that can give us scale, we will pursue. Whether it is a merger or acquisition, we are open, but the synergy must be there. We must see the benefits clearly. Any merger must be one that ensures stakeholders will benefit more; otherwise, it will not be worthwhile.” He revealed that one or two foreign banks had held discussions about possible acquisitions in Nigeria, predicting: “You could see a combination of one or two international banks taking over one or two Nigerian banks or merging with them from the look of things.” Indeed, a few weeks after the Sterling Bank CEO’s statement, Reuters reported the lender’s Chief Financial Officer, Abubakar Suleiman, as saying that the lender was seeking to buy one or two mid-tier banks. According to the report, Suleiman said that sharp falls in the value of the naira and increased regulatory pressure were forcing banks to recapitalise. He added that the mid-tier bank expected a further 20 per cent devaluation in the naira, which will erode capital ratios for several of its rivals, exposed to foreign currency assets, thereby triggering mergers. BMI report Clearly, since those remarks were made, the massive job cuts announced by banks in recent weeks, coupled with the generally below par performance that they reported for the first quarter of the year, has left a few industry watchers in doubt about how serious the challenges that the industry is facing are and the increasing likelihood of lenders embracing M&A. In fact, in its monthly Africa Monitor Newsletter for May 2016,

CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele

BMI Research, a subsidiary of the Fitch Company, forecast a fresh wave of consolidation for the Nigerian banking industry post-2016, albeit on a smaller scale than the 2005 round, which resulted in a reduction in number of banks from 89 to 25. The firm noted that mainly the slowing economy and the harsh business environment would trigger the looming consolidation. The BMI report cited deteriorating bank assets; drop in loan portfolios, the impact of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and banks’ performance on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) as factors that would bring about a consolidation in the industry. According to the firm, “over the eight months to August 2015, y-o-y growth in total Nigerian banking sector assets averaged 14.4 per cent. However, the last four months of the year saw asset growth fall to 2.3 per cent y-o-y in December. A similar story played out in client loans, which averaged 14.7 per cent from January to August, but fell to 2.7 per cent y-o-y in December.” In addition, the firm blamed “the sudden drop-off in banking sector growth over the last four months of 2015 on what it describes as “the CBN’s highly unorthodox monetary policy measures, including the refusal to devalue the naira, which has hit productivity and investor sentiment.” CBN deadline Significantly, BMI also pointed out there were already three banks that could be considered as acquisition targets given that they have been directed by the CBN to recapitalise by the end of this month after failing a stress test to reach a minimum Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 10 per cent. The firm argued that the pressure to recapitalise for some banks would lead to “opportunities to

Sterling Bank MD, Adeyemi Adeola

It is part of our mentality as a people, even if the business is dying... many Nigerians would still prefer to be in control for ego reasons

make acquisitions.” The apex bank had, in March last year, issued a letter to Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) telling them that they had till June 13, 2015, to submit their recapitalisation plans and by June 30, 2016, to have complied with the regulatory requirements of a minimum CAR of 10 per cent and 15 per cent for regional/national and international banks, respectively, under Basel 2. Commenting on the letter at the time, Renaissance Capital, in a note to investors, said: “One of our key takeaways from the CBN letter is that a few banks (undisclosed) do not meet the minimum CAR of 10 per cent and 15 per cent for regional/national and international banks, respectively, under Basel 2. These banks have been given three months, till June 13, 2015, to submit recapitalisation plans and till June 30, 2016 to implement it. “In our view, this extension is a positive development for Nigerian banks, as we have previously noted that the pace of implementation of Basel 2 (nine months) and other tighter capital requirements were rather speedy. That said, feedback from our recent international investor road show suggests that given the deteriorating Nigerian macro environment, significant capital-raising events could struggle to attract meaningful international investor participation. We also find international investors increasingly questioning the Nigerian banks’ ability to create value given constraining regulations and weakening macro fundamentals. ” Although in a report it released last November, the CBN subsequently revealed that it had given three DMBs until June 2016 to recapitalise after they failed to hit the minimum CAR of 10 per cent, it still did not name the lenders. The apex bank, however, said they were from the group of 14 lenders that have licenses to operate as regional and national banks,

Opportunities for SIBs Financial analysts point out that while the CBN is yet to announce whether it would extend the deadline for the three banks to comply with the higher (CAR) requirements or not, it has, however, extended a similar deadline for Systemically Important Banks (SIBs). The apex bank had, in 2013, designated First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (GTBank), Zenith Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), Access Bank Plc, Skye Bank Plc, Ecobank Nigeria and Diamond Bank Plc as SIBs and imposed on them a new set of rules, requiring them to maintain a minimum CAR of 16 per cent. However, according to recent report issued by Renaissance Capital, the implementation of 16 per cent minimum CAR for SIBs, which was to take effect from July 1, 2016, has been deferred to an undisclosed date. The firm said: “We gathered from our meetings that implementation of the 16 per cent minimum CAR for systemically important banks, scheduled to take effect from July 1, 2016, is likely to be delayed. We view this positively given the difficulties in boosting capitalisation levels in this environment.” Industry watchers told New Telegraph at the weekend that unless the CBN also extends the recapitalisation deadline for the three unidentified banks, it would have clearly made them acquisition targets for SIBs and other lenders such as Sterling Bank that had already said they are eyeing one or two mid-tier financial institutions. According to a financial analyst, Mr. Joseph Agho, “the Systemically Important Banks have the advantage of economies of scale and pricing power, but there are also other eager banks, which realise that size is key to being able to compete effectively, especially given the tough times that the industry is going through.” Wema Bank interest In fact, at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) last month, Wema Bank, which is the first lender in the country to obtain CBN’s approval to upgrade from regional to national banking status, received the approval of its shareholders to either acquire or merge with any financial/non-financial institution to expand its business. The shareholders also authorised the bank’s directors to raise additional capital in readiness to pursue the acquisition plan. Addressing shareholders at the meeting, the Chairman, Mr. Adeyinka Asekun, explained that the approval for the capital raising exercise would allow the bank to take advantage of any merger/ acquisition opportunity that may CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

BUSINESS |MONEY

WEDNESDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

FORECAST Lenders sacked over 3,000 in four months Tony Chukwunyem

etails of the flexible exchange rate regime announced recently by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) may not have been released yet, but financial analysts are already predicting that the policy could lead to more job cuts in the banking industry. CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin

‘Flexible exchange rate could trigger more bank layoffs’ Emefiele, had, at the end of the apex bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on May 24, announced that the regulator had decided to abandon the naira’s 15-month peg to the dollar. He said the new regime would introduce greater flexibility in the interbank foreign exchange market structure and retain a small window for critical transactions for prospective investors. The announcement was widely welcomed by financial analysts who had blamed the

CBN’s naira peg to the dollar for the local currency’s weakness as well as the contraction of the economy. However, in a note obtained by New Telegraph, analysts at Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) Limited said that while they were in support of the new forex regime, it (policy) would significantly impact the economy in various ways including triggering fresh layoffs in the banking industry as well as in other sectors. The experts stated that the impact of the new forex re-

Visa, MasterCard, others set to enter Chinese market

hina is finally preparing to open up its huge payments card market to foreign firms such as Visa, MasterCard, Verve and others. The People’s Bank of China says that outside players can apply for a license, but that they must hold one billion yuan ($152 million) in registered capital in a local company, be based locally and meet cybersecurity standards. China saw 55 trillion yuan in consumer card transactions last year and the country is projected to become the biggest card market in the world

by 2020. Visa and MasterCard have been lobbying for a way into the market - in which local scheme China UnionPay has long held an effective monopoly - for years. China promised to loosen UnionPay’s grip after the World Trade Organisation (WTO) ruled in 2012 that the

US firms were being discriminated against in the country. The WTO entered the fray after the US government made a complaint. Firms that apply for licenses will have their case reviewed by the central bank, which will make a decision within 90 days. Successful applicants will then have a year to set up shop.

gime could mean that, “Sectors that are labour intensive like construction will be hit by minimum wage review; massive consolidation in the downstream sector; banking sector Non Performing Loans (NPLs) will increase and impairments will eat into profitability (and) more layoffs in the banking sector.” According to the FDC analysts, other sectors that will also be impacted by the flexible exchange regime include, agriculture, trade, information and communication, professional services, manufacturing, real estate, construction, mining and quarrying. They, however, stated that the new forex regime would boost business for International Oil Companies (IOCs) and their subsidiaries. But as analysts point out, it is the forecast that the policy will lead to more job cuts in the banking industry that is likely to raise the most eyebrows. Reason: citing the harsh busi-

ness environment, banks have in recent weeks sacked over 3,000 workers. The development led to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, directing the banks to suspend all further plans to lay off staff and wait for the decisions that will be reached at a general meeting for stakeholders in the financial sector, scheduled for July 2. Following reports that some banks defied the government’s directive, the minister threatened to revoke the licenses of such banks. Indeed, at the Bankers’ Committee meeting in Abuja last Thursday, bank CEOs announced that they had resolved to minimise the high rate of personnel layoffs in the industry. However, they maintained that the option of sack would apply for any staff that is involved in fraudulent transactions or those that fail to measure up in their performance charts.

L-R: Ebonyi State Governor, Mr. Dave Umahi; Acting Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BoI), Waheed Olagunju and Executive Director, (Corporate Services), Mr. Tobin Jonathan, during the governor’s visit to BoI headquarters office, in Abuja. PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

AfDB boosts private sector credit with $45m

he Board of Directors of the African Development Fund (ADF), the concessional arm of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), has approved four operations amounting to close to $45 million in lines of credit to African financial institutions under its Private Sector Credit Enhancement Facility (PSF). The four operations are credit risk participations in lines of credit of the African Development Bank to financial institutions in East, North, West and Southern Africa. Launched in 2015, the PSF is the African Development Bank Group’s credit enhancement initiative to increase private financing in low-income countries. The PSF’s credit enhancement capacity is backed by the liquidity of a reserve pool of 206 million seeded by a grant from the ADF to cover potential losses on payment defaults. The PSF’s credit enhancement structure is designed to cover exposures amounting to 620 million. The PSF’s take up has been significant since it began operations. With these approved risk participations, the cumulative amount of exposures approved has reached 261 million (41 per cent of total programme amount). These LOCs bring to 19 the number of approved projects under the PSF scheme, which cover a cross section of sectors including independent power producers (including renewable energy projects), toll roads, container terminals, cement plants, agroindustries, and financial institutions.

Infrastructural investment decline deters Africa’s growth

pullback in funding infrastructural projects is hampering Africa’s growth, General Executive for Strategy, Development Bank of Southern Africa, Mohan Vivekanandan, has said. He told CNBC Africa that infrastructure in Africa and globally is used to stimulate growth, development and employment creation, noting that the current harsh economic climate facing many African countries has affected investment in infrastructure projects, as most governments are having challenges dealing with fiscal deficits. According to him, dependency on the under strain commodities is one reason economies have taken a knock and seen a reduced investment in this space. “When countries are struggling, infrastructure is one of the areas that get to be affected

first,” Vivekanandan said. He added that, China that has been successful with infrastructural investment has largely been benefiting from state-driven effort, calling for collaborative efforts between the state and private sector. Vivekanandan also said there was need to learn from the success South Africa had experienced in areas such as the inclusion of the IPPs in the energy generation. He added these successes could be replicated in other sectors. “In South Africa, for example, the telecoms infrastructure has been private sector driven, the same with renewable energy where the country saw over 200 billion rand of private sector investment,” said Vivekanandan. “There is need for a solid and capable government to act as an off take, in South Africa’s energy space for example, Eskom has acted as an off take.”

Tough economy swells rumour on fresh bank consolidation CO N T INU E D FROM PAGE 28

arise in the course of the year. Likely acquisition targets Interestingly, aside from Keystone Bank, one of the three bridge banks established in 2011 by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) and subsequently acquired by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), which has been put up for sale, no other bank has said it is willing to be acquired by another lender. “It is part of our mentality as a people, even if the business is dying and it is clearly better for us to sell our stake and move on, many Nigerians would still prefer to be in control for ego reasons. But I believe that things are so bad for banks right now that some of them will be willing to be acquired if the price is right,”

financial analyst, Agho said. He predicted that foreign banks, attracted by the huge Nigerian market, would play an active role in the imminent consolidation. Conclusion However, a General Manager with a new generation bank, who did not want to be named, pointed out that perceptions that the government in power was dictating to the CBN on monetary policy could be disincentive for foreign investors. According to him, “the perception outside the country is that President Muhammadu Buhari is the one dictating to the CBN, especially as it concerns the naira. Foreign investors are usually not comfortable in that kind of environment and they may decide that it is not worth the risk to acquire Nigerian banks.”

WEDNESDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS | Investor

To create an efficient and vibrant capital market, there is an urgent need for enabling laws to help mobilise affordable medium-to-long term capital needed for Nigeria’s growth. CHRIS UGWU reports

Taking capital market to next level with laws’ retooling

ome of the factors, which led to the loss of confidence in the capital market had to do with loss in value of investment, total loss of investment, sharp practices by market operators, lack of transparency in financial disclosures and ineffective regulation. Also included are perceptions that the market is not fair, cumbersome practices in issuance of dividends, bonuses, rights issue among others. Attempts to restore confidence However, there have been various attempts targeted at restoring the confidence of investors in the market, some, which include continuous financial literacy and investor clinics, technologydriven management of Initial Public Offers (IPOs), e-dividends and bonuses. Included is also biometric capture as part of Know Your Customer (KYC), process to forestall identity theft, online monitoring of individual Central Securities & Clearing System (CSCS) accounts, among others. SEC is currently leading the capital market in implementing the 10-year master plan initiatives, which include: recapitalisation exercise to strengthen market institutions, dematerialisation of share certificates, which has reached unprecedented level of over 85 per cent with 100 per cent in sight. Others are e-dividend with excellent collaboration from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) and collaboration with the National Assembly towards legislations that would boost Nigerian capital market. These fundamental changes according to analysts are muchneeded tonic that would bring about growth and development in the market through the 10- year master plan. Part of the capital market master plan (2015-2025) was a recommendation that would create an enabling legal environment for the achievement of efficient and vibrant capital markets and the general economy. However, in a bid to actualise the objectives of the capital market master plan, last week, authorities in the management of capital market SEC called for removal of legal impediments hampering the implementation of the capital market master plan, especially impediments that have to do with jurisdictional conflicts. Call for removal of impeding laws Vice-President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, said that the capital market as an institution

NSE building

is capable of creating wealth and employment generation for the country if new laws are fashioned to guide its operations. He said this last week in Abuja in a message read on his behalf by his Special Assistant on Economic Matters, Dr. Adeyemi Dipeolu, at a two-day Stakeholders’ Forum on “Realising the full potentials of the Nigerian Economy through proactive Capital Market legislation.” The forum was organised by the Senate and House of Representatives joint committee on the Capital Market and Institutions. Consequently, he tasked stakeholders in the capital market to come up with new laws and initiatives that will reposition the capital market to enable it play its role of massive infrastructural development. He underscored the importance of market in providing long term finances, which he said cannot be over-emphasised, especially at this critical time the nation’s economy is witnessing shortage of long-term financing of infrastructures. The Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mr. Munir Gwazo, urged the National Assembly to remove legal impediments hampering the implementation of the capital market master plan. He called on the capital market committees of both the Senate and House of Representatives to collaborate in facilitating the removal of legislations hindering the implementation of capital market master plan. The SEC boss spoke last week at the stakeholder’s forum on realising the potentials of the Nigerian economy through proactive capital market legislation co-hosted by the Capital Market Committees of both the Senate and House of Representatives in Abuja. He added that SEC has begun the process of compiling detailed and comprehensive document amendments needed to make

It is noteworthy that no country has been able to develop without a thriving capital market

the Master Plan implementation a success. Specifically, SEC DG mentioned Section 274 of ISA, which grants IST exclusive jurisdiction over capital market disputes vs Section 251 (1p,q,r) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, which gives High Courts jurisdiction over executive or administrative actions of SEC. To address this impediment to the actualisation of the master plan, Gwarzo appealed to the National Assembly to Include the IST under Section 6(5) of the Constitution and craft “legislation to prescribe the adoption of “Reasonableness test” in conducting judicial review in contrast to the “Correctness Test” as well as make the IST a special Division of the Federal High Court. He made reference to sections 21 and 22, which he said negatively impact transfer of possession and foreclosures, which by implication inhibit the take-off of mortgage-backed securities. The SEC boss is also demanding for an amendment of Section 22 of Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) to innovatively allow crowd funding of private companies. According to the SEC Director General, “Section 22 of CAMA on crowd funding limits members of a private company to 50, while also restricting its transfer of shares. National Assembly’s stance In response, Chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, said the National Assembly was aware of problems listed by SEC, adding that the critical role, which a virile capital market could play in expanding the growth of economy has been attested by all. “This market has long been neglected and denied its rightful and strategic role in our march towards economic recovery. The Capital Market is a veritable institution for the mobilisation,

allocation and utilisation of long-term funds, not just by the federal but also for states and local governments,” he said. He noted that the Senate and the House of Representatives Committees on Capital Markets and Institutions has initiated steps towards legislations that would boost Nigeria Capital Market. The capital market master plan recommendations, he said, would create an enabling legal environment for the economy, adding that the joint committees would also focus their legislative work in making the recommendations of the master plan the catalyst for achieving the infrastructural and development needs of a diversified national economy. “As legislators, we are ready to retool the laws guiding capital market operations or make new ones that would accelerate the relevance of the capital market in national economic development. “Therefore, we seek to grow the Nigerian capital market to be in a position to contribute meaningfully to economic growth and development. “This will make the capital market spearhead development in key sectors of the national economy, such as oil and gas, agriculture, tourism and hospitality,” Adeleke said. Operators’ view Managing Director, Crane Securities Limited, Mr. Mike Eze, reacting to the development, said: “I would like to commend the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as well as the entire capital market community for the laudable initiative of articulating a long-term strategic development blueprint for Nigeria’s capital market. This has been long overdue considering the fact that prior approaches to capital market development have not led to the desired progress because efforts were discrete, uncoordinated and oftentimes duplicative.” President, Constance Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Shehu Mallam Mikail, advised the authorities to see the master plan as the important national assignment it represents, adding: “With enabling laws, capital markets are so critical to the emergence of the kind of economy we intend to develop for Nigeria. It is noteworthy that no country has been able to develop without a thriving capital market.” Conclusion To facilitate mobilisation of savings, accelerate capital formation, provide investment avenues and enhance efficient allocation of capital to growth sectors, Nigeria needs and deserves a capital market that is characterised by high levels of liquidity, depth, breadth and sophistication to enable rapid socio-economic development.

WEDNESDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

A Bill that gives legal backing to the entire port reform programme is underway. BAYO AKOMOLAFE reports

maritime

he Senate is pushing for transfer of the powers of the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) to a new agency in order to ensure transparency, effective management, improved safety and to strengthen the ports industry. It was learnt that the new body, Nigerian Ports and Harbours Authority would have a governing board to be headed by the Minister of Transportation. Previous efforts Before the latest decision to create a new regulatory body for the port industry, the Nigerian Ports and Harbours Bill was originally presented to the National Assembly by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2006, but it failed to pass through both chambers. Before now, both the Senate Committee and House of Representatives Committee on Marine Transport had complained over the failure of the Presidency to summit the Nigerian Ports and Harbour Bill and the Nigerian Transport Commission Bill to the National Assembly for necessary action. The Ports and Harbours Bill has been embroiled in confusion and controversy since the conclusion of port concession in 2006. Two versions of the bill have been in circulation. One emanated from the National Assembly, which had passed through second reading, while the other was through public hearing before the executive arm stalled the passage. New development The Bill seeking to repeal the Nigerian Ports Authority Act, 2004 and enact the Nigerian Ports and Harbours Authority to provide for the Ownership, Management and Development of Ports and Harbours was sponsored by Senator Andy Uba. It was stated that if the port is privatised, it would ensure the integrity, efficiency and safety of the ports based on principles of accountability, competition, fairness and transparency. It would also encourage private sector participation in the provision of port services and port infrastructure as well as promote and safeguard Nigeria’s competitiveness and trade objectives. The new body shall be vested with control and ownership of all ports and harbours on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria. It will also transfer the technical regulatory powers, ownership of the land and assets relating to ports currently vested in the NPA to the new body. Under proposed new body, there would be separation of the cargo handling section of the authority from landlord functions within ports. This would foster greater operating efficiency, accountability and transparency in the man-

The Lagos Port complex

New port body to boost transparency coming why would you invest more? On the landlord model, the NPA is to promote infrastructural development, green view development and many more; the landlord model will only take place when the Bill has been passed into law. Folarin advised the lawmakers to expedite action on the passage of the Bill, noting that there had been several hear-

agement and operation of ports. Reform Also, the reform of the sector would provide for safe navigation, development and efficient management of harbours, channels and waterways and all other conservancy functions. The Bill also recommends,“Transfer of technology, information systems and managerial expertise through private sector participation in port operations, creation of means of planning, coordinating, developing and integrating port policies with other maritime activities, surface and air transportation systems.” In addition it proposed the maintenance of appropriate institutional arrangements to support good governance and accountability in ports. The Senate also proposed that the new body should establish a reserve fund, in the mode of the Excess Crude Account (ECA), as it obtains in the case of proceeds from oil. Stakeholder’s perceptive Chairman, Port Consultative Council, Otunba Kunle Folarin, noted that the port industry is dynamic and where nothing is done, where it should be, definitely it would affect development in the industry. He said: “Key issues like concessioning, infrastructural development, landlord model, which are supposed to be idolised are being neglected due to the delays in the processing and passing of the Ports and Harbour Bill. However, without prejudice to the challenges, we believe that the Bill should be given a priority. “The concession exercise needs to be put in legal perspective, if you are having a multibillion naira investment sector and you are not sure of the legal status,

There is need to hasten the passage of the Port and Harbour Bill and Maritime Bills gathering dusts at the National Assembly

ing on it and there was nothing more than for the lawmakers to do their job. Conclusion There is need to hasten the passage of the Port and Harbour Bill and maritime bills gathering dusts at the national assembly in order to encourage investment in the maritime industry.

Ships flagged for illegal fishing secure insurance

ew research from the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries has revealed that crook fishing vessels including those that have been flagged by International Maritime Organisation (IMO) for unlawful activity, are finding it easy to secure insurance. The report noted that restricting access to insurance could no longer play a major role in ending illegal fishing. According to Dana Miller, a lead author, who conducted a research on illegal fishing and insurance while she was a post doctoral fellow at the university, illegal fishing was a major problem that siphons an estimated $10 to 20 billion annually from the global economy. The study noted that illegal fishing had damaged habitats and made fishing harder for law-abiding fishers. She said: “Insurance can be financially beneficial for fishing vessels because it eliminates the risk of large financial loss if an accident occurred. Miller and her colleagues at the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries investigated in-

surance information for 94 IUU fishing vessels and 837 legal vessels that were required by international law, to have insurance because of their size. They identified the insurers of 48 per cent of the illegal vessels and 58 per cent of the legal vessels and often the same companies provided insurance to both illegal and legal fishing vessels. She advised that insurance companies should check lists of known illegal vessels before issuing insurance. Miller also recommend that insurers mandate that all vessels over a certain size be assigned an International Maritime Organization (IMO) ship identification number, and operate satellite automatic identification vessel tracking technology. These measures would tighten regulation and increase transparency. She added: “These lists include regional fisheries management organisations’ Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) vessel lists, and the list of vessels that Interpol has issued Purple Notices (PN) for seeking information on their activities, associations, and whereabouts.”

business \ maritime

WEDNESDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Nigeria loses revenue to Benin at border LEAKS

Importers and clearing agents are taking advantage of the faulty scanning machine installed at the border to cheat the government Stories by Bayo Akomolafe

ack of proper implementation of trade agreement between Nigeria and republic of Benin has led to huge revenue loss to the Nigerian government. It was learnt that interconnectivity between the two countries had made it difficult to have the true manifest of imported goods coming into Nigeria from Benin. According to Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), there had been improper implementation of the agreement reached on the

handing over of transit goods and vehicles to the Nigeria Customs by Beninoise Customs. Also, it was revealed that importers and clearing agents were taking advantage of the faulty scanning machine installed at the border to scan cargoes. The Area Controller of Seme Border Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, (NCS) Comptroller Victor Dimka, disclosed this when the House Representative Committee on Customs visited the command on oversight function. He said that Benin Customs had not fully worked in line with the bilateral trade agreement reached with its Nigerian counterpart last year. According to him, the command had been having problems with the command scanning system, which had been epileptic. Dimka said that the violation of Direct Trader Input (DTI) by importers

and agents had made declarations to be captured with little or no payment made to Customs coffers. Also, he identified lack of decent accommodation for officers, absence of a baggage hall for examination of cargoes and power as some of the challenges militating against the command’s operation. Dimka added that some of the officers reside in houses owned by smugglers and these often times demoralises their moral and made them compromise in the discharge of their duties.

He noted that the command is currently operating at 30 per cent capacity due to the dilapidated infrastructure and unwholesome situation it finds itself. He admitted: “We have challenges in the area of adequate and befitting accommodation for officers and men of this command. No officer can give his best in the absence of personal comfort and state of demoralisation. This has affected our performance and efficiency by about 30 per cent. “The non-completion

of the ECOWAS building that has been under renovation for a long time has impacted negatively on our operations as well.” The area controller added that the command had been running on generators 24 hours for many years due to lack of electricity. He added that the command was compelled to get generating sets and fuel them daily. Dimka also said that the command generated N3.8billion revenue between January and May 2016.

Customs plan aerial surveillance to tackle smuggling

he Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has concluded plans to carry out aerial surveillance to check smuggling across the country’s 4,700-kilometre land border. The Comptroller-General of the service, Col. Hamid Ali (rtd), has said

this in a statement. According to him, the aerial surveillance would enable the service to identify smuggling activities on the nation’s borderline. He explained that the Customs was not only created to collect revenue but was also to facilitate trade and security.

Ali noted: “We have done everything to make sure we fortify our borders but let’s remember we have 4,700kilometres borderline and we cannot place individuals at every point. “So, we are trying to develop a process whereby we have an area surveillance and that will help us

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (right), with President, Lagos Chambers of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), Mrs. Nike Akande, during a courtesy visit to the governor, at the Lagos House, Ikeja.

Reps rebuke rector over fraudulent budget

he House of Representatives Committee on Maritime Safety and Education has rebuked the Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron in Akwa Ibom for allegedly presenting a cooked budget for approval. The Rector of the Academy, Engr. Anthony Ishiodu and his management team had come for the defence of the academy’s 2016 budget and consideration in Abuja but it was discovered that the 2016 budget contained fictitious items in both its recurrent and capital expenditure.

Trouble New Telegraph learnt, started when the Muhammad Umar Bago-led committee observed that budget lacked details in the document presented before, leading to series of questions from members of the committee. Both the chairman and members of the committee were said to have expressed displeasure over alleged discovery that most of the items listed as either ongoing or proposed projects were either inflated or non-existent. It was discovered that on page two item 21 (a) of the 2015 budget, the “augmentation of per-

Earlier, Chairman of the Committee, Rufai Ahmed Chachangi, said that the purpose of the visit to the command was to assess some uncompleted and underdeveloped projects, revenue collection and the other challenges faced by the commands. He said that the Committee is aware that officers of the service are grossly underpaid. He advised the comptroller to put the challenges faced by the command in writing and forward it to the Committee for action.

sonnel cost and payment of peculiar allowance” was N339 million, but rose astronomically to N600.9 million in the 2016 budget. Committee member, Dan Asuquo, who represents Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency of Cross River State, was quoted to have said: “It is amazing how fraud goes on in the maritime sector. On page 21 of this document, a N34million contract was given under the capital expenditure for the construction of a building in the school and this House in the 7th Assembly fought very hard to effect releases for the project.

oncessionaire of the Lagos port container terminal, APM Terminals has said that it would implement truck safety procedures across the entire company’s global terminal network by the end of 2016. Already, it had successfully completed a pilot-programme at five terminals in Apapa, Rotterdam, Los Angeles, Mumbai and Callao (Peru), including 100 hours of safety observations and 160 identified risk situations was performed and the data analyzed to review existing procedures and risks. In a statement by its Director, External Communications, Mr. Thomas Boyd, the company’s Vice

so that on the spot, we can pinpoint where smuggling or movement is happening and we can now deploy our people quickly to forestall that.” The comptroller general explained that since the responsibilities of soldiers do not include manning the nation’s borders, the Customs also serve as gatekeepers at the borders. He added that the Federal Government would make the standard of the service world-class to facilitate efficient trade between Nigeria and its partners. Ali said that the service was implementing a “3R” strategic vision of Reform, Re-structure and Raise-Revenue that would place the customs in a good standing. He added that the country was faced with unprecedented challenges as regards unlocking the nation’s economic potential “as a series of shocks have led to what some experts refer to as the `perfect storm.” Ali said that processes and procedures in the service were predicated on values of Information and Communication Technology

Terminal operator to implement truck safety procedures President for Health, Safety, Security & Environment, Kevin Furniss, said that the APM Terminals’ goal was to ensure safe operations in all terminals. He explained that the basic concept was to eliminate the risk of accident or injury to the thousands of truck drivers who enter its facilities daily by strictly enforcing a “Stay in the Cab” mandate for external truckers with clearly identified designated safe zones in non-operational areas. The vice president noted: “This programme

reflects the tremendous team work from various terminal functions collaborating to develop a systematic approach to Safety. “Reasons for drivers leaving their truck cabs, and thus increasing the risk of accidents with container handling equipment or other trucks, included document handling, looking for containers, asking for directions, inspecting chassis, guiding equipment operators, and securing loads while in the yard.”

business \ maritime

WEDNESDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Exporters desert Lagos ports, opt for Cotonou MOTIVATION Exporters are at the crossroads, as 30 per cent incentive introduced by the Federal Government to encourage importers has not been implemented Stories by Bayo Akomolafe

orty per cent of exporters using Lagos seaports have closed shops due to the harsh operating environment, Association of Exports Commodity and Manufacturing Freight Forwarders of Nigeria (AECMFFN), has said. The President of the association, Mr Olubunmi Olumekun, in a statement, noted that 30 per cent of the remaining 60 per cent were smuggling Nigerian commodities to other countries through Cotonou and Niger Republic. He said that Nigeria cashewnuts were being smuggled though Cotonou, while sesame seeds were rustled to other countries through Niger Republic because of the high cost of exportation in Nigerian ports. He noted that exporters had resolved to boycott the nations’ ports if the terminal operators failed to withdraw the newly-introduced container handling charges at the port. The president said that the 30 per cent incentive introduced by the federal government to encourage importers had not been implemented. He said that Nigerian exporters were finding it difficult to compete with other exporters from the West African region. Olumekun said that export-

L-R: Prime Minister of Denmark, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, Minister for Natural Resources and Environment, Vietnam, Mr. Tran Hong Ha, Director General of IUCN, Inger Andersen, Chief Executive officer of Danfoss, Niels B. Christiansen, Panel moderator and Chair of Board of KR Foundation and CONCITO, Connie Hedegaard, EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Karmenu Vella and Managing Director of LADOL, Dr. Amy Jadesimi, during a panel session at the 2016 annual Global Green Growth Forum (3GF) in Copenhagen, Denmark.

ers would no longer pay the N40, 000 and N60,000 on 20 feet and 40 feet containers respectively, introduced at the port with effect from June 1, 2016. He explained that some ports in the neighbouring countries charged only $200 per container. Olumekun recalled that before port concession, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) was charging N516 wharfage and wharfinger on 20 feet containers, which was later increased to N2,100. The president said that the new charges were additional burden to storage fees, in addition to the re-nomination fees being charged should a container fail to be shipped. He recalled: “When port concession came, we paid the terminal operators N4, 200 per 20 feet container and N6,200 per

40 feet containers. Now, we are expected to pay N40,000 per 20 ft container and N60,000 per 40 feet container. “Is this how we are going to survive and diversify the nation’s economy?’’ Olumekun explained that the association is demanding a review of the container handling charges to promote commodity export business in the country. He said that exports were scheduled to be delivered within 24 hours and placed on fasttrack, noting that the papers were still being delayed for three days. The president said that unless the Federal Government intervenes quickly, they would be left with no option than to either shut down the ports or leave the export business. Director, Operations, AD-

How to sustain Africa’s $200bn untapped growth potential, by LADOL

agos Deep Offshore Logistics (LADOL) has advocated for sustained capacity building by investors in the maritime, oil and gas sectors of Nigeria and other West African countries. This according to a statement from the firm, was in order to adequately service a $200 billion growth market opportunities in the continent. Managing Director of the company, Dr. Amy Jadesimi, who was in Copenhagen, Denmark to rub minds with world business leaders on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), explained that international banks and investors need to re-define banks’ ability to enable them to participate in the highly lucrative opportunities around the world. The event with the theme: “A call to action-enabling solutions at speed and scale,” featured some speakers across the world, who spoke variously on how to achieve greener global transformation. It was attended by President of African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina and Lord Mark MallochBrown, co-chair, Global Commission for Business and Sustainable Development. Jadesimi according to a statement by

her firm, was one of the two prominent Nigerians invited to the event. In her presentation at the opening session, the managing director said that the untapped growth market potentials in Nigeria and West Africa was about $200 billion. She said that her organisation had since keyed into the goals mantra and had resolved to create 50,000 jobs in the nearest future through her private investment in Nigeria’s maritime, oil and gas sector. Jadesimi said: “SDGs have been part of LADOL’s DNA for a decade, our success comes from the fact that we private firms invested in building capacity to service a clearly defined and drastically underserved S$ 200 billion market in West Africa. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and other companies in high growth markets need to do their part to attract investment by being FCPA compliant and better quantifying the private sector opportunities they have identified. She said that empowering the local communities and civil societies must be one of the first things investors should identify before tapping into these opportunities.

LAD Group, Mr Remi Olikuntuyi, said that when the port concession started, there were guidelines that there must be consultation by the concessionaires before any increase in charges. According to Olikuntuyi, exports, imports fetch the second highest revenue for government, adding that this was why the government should come and correct the situation. “No exporter is making profit. Without the 30 per cent

incentive, Nigerian exporters cannot compete with other exporters from the neighbouring countries,’’ he said. An exporter, Mr Usi Stephen said that exporters would not pay the new charges because Nigerian exportable products were not competitive. However, a source at the Seaports Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) said that the introduction of the new container handling charges for exports was true.

IMO Convention, efforts towards sanitising Nigeria’s waterways Clem Khena-Ogbena

he International Maritime Organisation(IMO)’s audit may attract international sanctions if there is negligence by any country. The audit is aimed at improving security on international waterways and promoting standard best practices in the maritime sector. Already, a 3-man delegation of auditors from the IMO, has been saddled with the task of auditing Nigeria’s maritime industry and practice protocols as well as determining its extent of compliance. At the forum in Abuja, the Minister of Transportation, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, while declaring open the Nigeria’s IMO Member State Audit Scheme ( IMSAS), listed the major aspects affected by the auditing to include Safety of Life at Sea ( SOLAS); Prevention of Pollution from Ships ( MARPOL); Standards of Training Certification and Watch Keeping for Sea Fares (STCW) Conventiona and Loading Lines ( LL) Convention. Others are Tonnage Measurement of Ships Convention; and Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREG). Amaechi, who was represented at the occasion by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport, Sabiu Zakari, said: “At my maiden

He stressed that the implementation of the programme would require all APM Terminals’ facilities to provide specially designated, physically protected areas for drivers conducting required operational activities outside their truck cabs, by the end of

meeting with the management and staff of the Ministry of Transportation and its agencies on 19th December, 2015, I was reminded of the need to request the IMO to shift forward the date for the Nigerian Audit, in order to allow for more time to prepare for the International Maritime Organisation Member State Audit Scheme. “I objected to the request, given the notification from the IMO with respect to the fact that the Audit notification had long been given and particularly that the Audit is to encourage member states to maintain consistency in the areas they are doing well and guide them to overcome in the areas they are having challenges.” He explained that the primary objective of the IMO Member State Audit Scheme was to promote consistent and effective implementation of the six applicable instruments as well as helping member-states to improve their capabilities in the enforcement of the instruments with a view to enhancing the overall performance in complying with the IMO conventions. According to him, the audit was not to witch hunt the member states but a mechanism for determining the extent to which member states, such as Nigeria, were complying with the enforcement of the six applicable to IMO instruments mentioned above.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Literature

Arts

Poetry, colour as sunny strength

Affordable Art Show spawns Beauty & Strength in creativity

Tony Okuyeme

“A

rt is generally considered a luxury item and given the current economic climate, younger arts enthusiasts consider the acquisition of art unattainable, a distant dream. As all the master artists we celebrate today started off as young unknown artists, we decided to showcase the creative work of talented young artists with potential to become celebrated masters in future,” notes the Director of Mydrim Gallery, Sinmidele Adesanya a she explains the idea behind the group exhibition put together by the gallery. Titled Affordable Art Show, the exhibition which opened penultimate Friday at Mydrim Gallery, Ikoyi Lagos, features works of largely younger artists as well as emerging artists who are carving a niche for themselves. The works are as diverse as the themes they explore, showcasing about 200 works in various media such as painting, beadwork, mixed media, sculpture – metal and wood carving – by over 45 artists. The exhibiting artists include: Tolu Akanimodo, Okeke Chisom, Omolayo Kehinde, Collins Abinoro, Adesua Okosun, Oluwafunke Oladimeji, Boma Joe Jim, Adedamola Adebesin, Chuks Okonkwo, Olufemi Oyewole, Adedeji Adewale, and Olufemi Kayo. The list of exhibiting artists also include Femi Atewolara, Kehinde Badmus, Chinedu Ogakwu, Haliru Abdulahi, Chinedu Uzoma, Uzoamaka Nnuji, Joshua Nmesirionye, Godfrey Okojie, Mede marvin, Oladipupo Adesina, Olaide Oluwaseyi, Aina Felix among others. Mrs. Adesanya further notes:

“Mydrim Gallery was established in 1992 by to provide a platform for artists to showcase their works to a growing community of Nigerian art lovers and to create an awareness of the visual arts in the country. The gallery also sought to discover and promote the talent of young artists and exhibit the works of emerging, established and master artists. Over the past two decades we have showcased the talents of over 100 young artists, fully sponsored 45 exhibitions and exhibited the works of over 200 artists in our gallery space.” She said the works on display are affordable and “will encourage young people to appreciate, purchase and enjoy artworks which will over time become more valuable and a worthwhile investment. In so doing, we are once again realizing our objective of creating an awareness of the visual arts and showcasing promising young artists”. Explaining further on the idea behind the show, Tolu Akanimodo said the whole point of having the exhibition is to make works affordable for younger people, like new collectors, and also to introduce the emerging young artists into the art scene. “We have on display over 200 artworks including miniature sculptures – wooden, metal and spoon sculptures,” she said. The works on diusplay include: ‘The Review’ by Okeke, ‘After Evening Meal’ by Omolayo, ‘Somewhere in Ado 1’ by Okosun, ‘Beauty & Strength’ by Abinoro, ‘Same Blood’ by Ayo Olamide Ayomipo,

The whole point of having this exhibition is to make works affordable for younger people, like new collectors

TONY OKUYEME ARTS EDITOR

tony.okuyeme@newtelegraphonline.com

After Evening Meal, Oil on Canvas, by Omolayo Kehinde

Beauty and Strength, Table Spoon by Collins Abinoro

‘Way Home’ by Atewolara, ‘New Glory’ by Ike Gerald Chimezie, ‘Led By The Guardian Angel’ by Marshal Nwauwa, ‘Yellow Buses’ by Mufutau Apooyin, ‘Horse Man’ by Adesina, ‘Communal Effort’ by Salako Olajide, ‘Grace’ by Segun Adesanya among others. Earlier, declaring the exhibition open, veteran actress, Joke Silva urged the artists not to relent in their efforts to become masters, noting that: “Like all artists, the first time you have your show at Mydrim Gallery is a major event; and for you to get to this stage it means that you are good. “It is the struggle that becomes your signature that people begin to notice in your work. All artists, whether you are a performing artiste, a visual artist, or a musician, you are a chronicler of your time.” One of the star attractions among the artworks on display is Collins Abinoro’s ‘Beauty & Strength’, a metal sculpture made from over 1000 tablespoons. “It was inspired by personal experience - growing up as a child, and my relationship with my mum. I often use my experience with in most of my works. The strength of which she has been able to use to passionately bring me up into a stronger and a better person today, which is built on strong love. This work is made with over 1250 tablespoons.

Agape, bead work by Chisom Okeke

“I see every woman to be beautiful, beauty beyond the outer look; beauty more on the inside, because it is this beauty that causes sacrifice their time for their children at all cost to make sure they get to the level they want,” Abinoro explained. Some of the artists also shared their opinion about the exhibition. Okeke Chisom noted that this exhibition is actually her second exhibition, “but it means a whole to me. The remarkable thing about this particular exhibition is that at least I have my work documented in a catalogue because the previous one was not documented.” For Omolayo Kehinde, an HND student of Yaba College Technology, Yaba, Lagos, is happy to participate in the exhibition. “I am very happy; and I believe it will be a stepping stone for me,” she enthused. For Adesua Okosun this exhibition is like a fresh start. She said: “This exhibition is my first; it means a lot for me. It is like a fresh start, a good start. This exhibition means a lot to me.”

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

NEWS Lagos_live festival returns

our years after its first e d i t i o n , t h e L a g o s _ l ive festival comes back and presents an exciting overview on contemporary theatre and perfor mance art. Artists from Ger many, Nigeria, France, Austria and other countries will be showcasing new works while series of artist talks will give the possibility of interacting directly with inter national curators and artists, the organisers announced. A m o n g t h e i nv i t e d g r o u p s and artists are Monster T r u c k / Fo o t p r i n t s o f D av i d , Qudus Onikeku, Theater im Bahnhof, Kiniso Konce pts, Crowne Troupe of Africa, C h r i s t i n a Ku b i s c h , P a n A f r i c a n S p a c e S t at i o n , Ja n - Wi l l e m v a n d e r B o s c h , I s r a e l S u n d ay A k p a n , A l a f u r o S i ko k i , E f e P a u l A z i n o, D a g g a To l a r a n d m a n y m o r e. “ T h e f e s t iv a l ´ s f o c u s i s t h e u r b a n s p a c e a n d i t w i l l t a ke p l a c e a t F r e e d o m P a rk a n d the Printing Press (Broad Street).” The festival is scheduled to hold from 24th to 26th June 2016. Venue: F reedom Park and Fe d e r a l G ove r n m e n t P re s s, Broad Street, Lagos Island.

CORA calls for applications

ORA/Arterial Nigeria has announced calls for applications from Nigerian ar tists and creative entre preneurs to participate in the Arterial Network inte g rated Cultural Management Prog ramme, supported by Africalia, Goethe Institute and British Council. The vision of Ar terial Network’s Cultural Management prog ramme is to contribute to capacity building in the African ar ts sector with an approach that is practical, ef ficient, fast, and focused on specific skills of cultural management. It aims at continuing to professionalize the sector and limiting the dependence on foreign expertise through local workshops and courses. It targets ar tists, ar ts administrators, mana g ers, cultural of ficers, cultural planners and p r a c t i t i o n e r s i n A f r i c a wh o feel the need to improve spe ci f i c s k i l l s s u ch a s ab i l i t y t o write successful funding prop o s a l s, m a rke t i n g t h e i r c u l t u r a l p ro d u c t s a n d s t r at e g i c mana g ement of their projects and events. In 2016, the course, piloted in Nigeria, will accept 24 participants: 12 in Lagos and 12 in Port Harcourt. This call is for artists and creative entrepreneurs based in Lagos ONLY. Applications from Port Harcourt will open in July. Deadline for application is on Sunday 19th June 2016.

ART

Garlands for quintessential music critic, writer, Idonije at 80 Tony Okuyeme

uintessential music critic and writer, Benson Idonije turns 80 this year. To celebrate it, the Benson Idonije @80 Committee has lined up a series of events to honour him. Schedule to hold from Thursday, June 16 through 18 in three venues – Lagos State University, Ojo (LASU), MUSON Centre and Freedom Park – the events will kick off with a workshop with LASU Music students. Time is 11am. It will be coordinated by Mr. Biodun Adebiyi. On the same day, there will also be tributes/colloquium session, with the theme, ‘Essential Benson Idonije’ at Agip Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan, at 4pm. Dr. Christopher Kolade will chair the event while the lead speakers are Sir Victor Johnson and Mr. Kevin Ejiofor. Other speakers include Mr. Ron Mgbatogu, Mr. Tunde Adeniji, Dr. Dan Agbi, Chief Tunde Aiyegbusi, Chief Dele Ajakaiye, Mr. Tomprai Abarowei, Odion Iruoje, Osaze Iyamu among others, the Committee stated in a statement. Idonije’s three books will be presented also at MUSON Centre by Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi, and reviewed by Dr. Reuben Abati and Layiwola Adeniji. The books to be presented are Dis Fela Sef, The Great Highlife Party and All That Jazz. The screening of ‘The Essential Benson Idonije’ documentary is at 7pm in the same venue. To wrap up the evening, there will be a concert at Freedom Park by 8pm, facilitated by First Marketing Services Limited, featuring a mixed grill of sound. On Friday, June 17, there will be a conversation and keynote address by Prof. John Collins at 4pm, with theme ‘Highlife – The Evergreen: Looking Back, Looking Ahead.’ The panel discussants include, Odion Iruojo, Femi Esho, Ray Mike Nwachukwu, among others. Saturday, June 18

will see a town hall meeting-and interactive session with COSON members at Freedom Park, with the theme ‘All That Jazz: The Standards, the Cross-Overs, The Transforma-ion.’ Time is 11am. There will be another conversation by 4pm, just to mention a few of the programmes for that day. A concert follows at 7pm at Freedom park. On Sunday, June 19, activities to celebrate the music critic will wrap up at Freedom Park by 4pm, with a conversation on ‘Music Forward: Deconstructing, Reconstructing’. Keynote speaker is Mr. Ayeni Adekunle and will be chaired by Mr. Laolu Akintobi. ‘A Toast to Grandad’ is the theme of a concert at 8pm same day featuring Idonije’s grandson, Burna Boy and Friends. Bor n i n

Idonije

1936 in Otuo, Owan East Local Government area of Edo State, where he also started elementary school, Idonije studied Communications Engineering at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, after his Cambridge School Certificate at Holy Trinity Grammar School, Sabongida Ora. He joined the service of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (later Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN) in 1957 as Engineering Assistant but moved to mainstream broadcasting in 1960 when, among other roles, he became a producer and presenter of such famous programmes as The Big Beat and Stereo Jazz Club, eventually participating in setting up and pioneering Radio Nigeria 2 (now Metro FM) in 1977. The high point of his career in broadcasting was his transfer to FRCN Training School where, for eight years, he became Principal Lecturer and Chief Training Officer, Programme Production — from 1984 to 1992 — when he retired. After retirement, Benjay, as he is fondly called, contributed critiques, opinions, and commentaries to many major arts-related journals in Nigeria and abroad. In 1996, he was formally invited by The Guardian (Nigeria) to write for the newspaper; and he maintained three columns every week – Evergreen (Wednesdays), Sound and Screen (Fridays) and All That Jazz (Sundays). He is perhaps the only columnist in any Nigerian newspaper with such frequency and resourcefulness. The well-researched c o l u m n s a re i n d iv i d u a l ly widely acclaimed, attracting feedback(s) – mostly commendations — from all over the world. The hundreds of articles have been collated into volumes for publication. A 2012 recipient of the Life Time Award for Journalism Excellence from the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, Benjay is also a Fellow of Adam Fiberesima School of Music and Conservatory, University of Port Harcourt.

Save the Data opens at Omenka Gallery

ave the Data, a solo exhibition by Cuban artist David Palacios’ opened on Sunday at Omenka Gallery, Ikoyi, Lagos. The show, which runs till June 26, 2016, is organized by the African Artists´ Foundation (AAF) and Ford Foundation. Save the Data is Palacios’ first solo exhibition in Nigeria. It is a compilation of Palacios’ ideas developed since 2012 as part of his project Art Report in which he juxtaposes art codes with statistical information and news. The exhibition features graphicspaintings, digital prints, in-

stallations, and videos that take a critical look at models of representation of the information industry using visual news agency mechanisms. Here, the artist takes as a reference issues on the global and Nigerian agenda such as the global economy, international investment, oil prices, military spend, social issues and poverty levels, and presents them with an interdisciplinary approach, in works that at first glance seem innocuous graphics and reports. David Palacios currently lives and works between London (UK) and Abuja (Nigeria).

Save the Data

LITERATURE

Poetry, colour as sunny strength P oetry comes naturally to Bob like leaves on trees, and with this collection he feeds the readers with the fruits from his tree of creativity. He is the son of his age, but shares same page with sagely old men who cannot but lament when society’s moral values are abused. Thus he says: “And I break down and cry for my land / I share these thoughts so that we can stand / Rebrand / Put our hands on the sand / And make our land grand” The eyes of a poet search for beauty within lines, even while the mind wallows in the placid pleasure of the imageries. Bob satisfies these desires. His imageries are wrapped in nicesounding words which tickle the mind; words which do not hide the passion behind them. In “My Words”, he proves this: “My words are like Vitamin to my being / Upholding me when I’m ill / Helping me with the bills / And making my world real” In line with the title of the collection, the tears are like rain drops. These are tears of wasted years. Who will wipe the old man’s tears away? Change is a soothing balm and panacea for bleeding hearts. This is a wakeup call for change. A poet is an observer. Bob’s echoes Alfred Lord Tennyson in rhymes and rhythms which make the poems musical to the ears with spontaneous poetic magnitude. Bob is a living proof that poets are not in fact afraid of voicing hard, bitter truths. In “Take My Life”, he writes: “Ah, death can’t be worse / Than living in this curse / Where our country’s purse / Is the property of the political boss The rhythm and pace of these poems capture the experiences of the poet in a voice and with a grace every listener can appreciate and admire. The poet cries for a change in the country as things seem to retrogress instead of progress. The land is all that we have and no one is greater than it. The poem “The Land is Ours” reflects Niyi Osundare’s “Eye of The Earth”. Here, Bob makes reference to the irrational, senseless killing in the northern region of Nigeria, and wonders if modern Nigeria reflects the dreams of our forefathers. The

Book title: Author: Publisher: Pages: Reviewer:

Tears From An old Man’s Eyes Bob Ekat The Pen Society 74 Oladipo Kehinde

perpetrators are nameless, faceless, and senseless. The country is colonized internally by centrifugal forces and something is not just right. Thus, he laments: “Boko’s guns, Boko’s bombs / Turning every landscape to tombs / O, this land of our forefathers / This is not the land, the land of our forefathers” In “Arise Africa”, Bob states

Book stand

that Africa is a methodological assertion of a black man’s race. He is of the opinion that Africa is old enough to provide for her descendants. He writes that every African should rise up against the concerted forces and their stooges who are bent on holding the continent to ransom, thereby making our past heroes restless in their graves, as their children are enslaved by their leaders on their land. In the poem, he expressed his deep love for the black man’s black skin thus: “Thy colour is thy sunny strength / Blazing black radiance all around the earth” I will not be forgiven if I end this review without talking about the lighter side of the poet, Bob. He loves the African woman. He believes the African woman is the most finely crafted piece of art created. And this deep love is evident in some of his works like “The Girl From My Village”, Strange Angel”, “Yemisi”, and others. These poems bring to mind the poem of Leopold Sedar Senghor, “Black Woman”. The themes of hardship, love, adventure, nature, revolution, and death cut across this collection. The mood dictates the tone. The imageries are vivid in our minds. The poems have robust messages. The diction makes strong appeal to our emotion. Personification and apostrophe appeal to the sense of sight and vision. Bob is a rhyme master, an image maker, a messenger, a revolutionary and an adventurer.

What we are reading

POETRIP FOOTSTEPS OF THE RAIN Oladipo Kehinde

Season of Crimson Blossoms by Abubakar Adam Ibrahim, which is part of encouraging new works coming out of the northern part of Nigeria, tackling societal issues, social issues – the position of the woman in the society, insurgency etc. And Season of Crimson Blossoms, especially, is wonderful for its depiction of the sensuality of a northern woman, an older northern woman. It is also thoughtfully written, very sensitively written. Abubakar Adam Ibrahim is not celebrated enough; he is a very good writer, very dedicated writer; and it is my hope that more and more people will read this his first novel.

A Case of Two Cities by Qiu Xiaolong, a Chinese detective writer. The reason the book was so pertinent is because it deals with investigations of high level corruption among communist party members in the communist government. It is a case of a highly placed party member misusing his position and acquiring all sorts of privately organized wealth. A Case of Two Cities is a fantastic novel, but it teaches so much about what investigating high ups in the political systems means.

TONY OKUYEME ARTS EDITOR

tony.okuyeme@newtelegraphonline.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Molara Wood

Prof. Kole Omotosho

The voice of the wind herald the raincloud The thunder beats the drums before the cloud of hope The fruits of the rain on the tree of time Let the rain fall for the earth to breath anew The rainbirds nest on the trees to avoid the hands and conversation of the rain The rain is wealthy The rain is wealthy with hands of increase and abundance The rain never count its drops Never count its drops The fruits of the rain on the tree of time The day, The night, The day needs the night The night needs the day The footsteps of the rain For the wetness of the earth The rain is wealthy The rain is wealthy The rain never count its drops Never count its drops in the bank of the river The fruits of the rain in the hands of harvest The rain is wealthy The rain is wealthy

wedneSDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

BUSINESS | Money Line

CBN to release flexible exchange rate guidelines today DAMAGE Delay hurt stocks, weakened naira Tony Chukwunyem

fter what seemed an interminable delay, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will release the guidelines for the flexible exchange rate regime today. A source with knowledge of the matter yesterday told New Telegraph that the apex bank has concluded its series of consultations with stakeholders and has also finished working out details of the new system. “Everything has been concluded and barring any last minute development, the guidelines will be released tomorrow (today),” the source said. New Telegraph gathered that the CBN would hold a

press conference today to announce the guidelines. Citing the need to bolster the economy in the face of an imminent recession, CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, had at the end of the regulator’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on May 24th, announced that it had decided to abandon the naira’s 15-month peg to the dollar. He stated that the CBN would introduce greater flexibility in the interbank foreign exchange market structure and will retain a small window for critical transactions for prospective investors. The announcement was widely welcomed by financial analysts who had blamed the CBN’s naira peg to the dollar for the local currency’s weakness as well as the contraction of the economy. The analysts were, however, disappointed when contrary to their expectations, the CBN did not imme-

diately release the guidelines for the implementation of the new policy. According to them, the delay further weakened the naira on the parallel market and hurt stocks. At the end of its meeting in Abuja, the Bankers’ Committee had announced that details of the new policy would be ready in a “short while.” Bloomberg had reported that the CBN is likely to introduce a dual exchange-rate system and weaken the naira when it unveils the new forex policy. Analysts including those at Renaissance Capital Ltd. have said they expect the CBN to allow the naira to weaken around a trading band in the interbank market, while allocating dollars at a fixed rate to industries the government deems strategic. The CBN has held the naira at N197-199 per dollar since March 2015, with Emefiele

Lender secures regional banking licence

he number of commercial banks with re gional authorisation in the country has risen to two, as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has licensed ProvidusBank Plc to operate in that banking category. A list of Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) and financial holding companies op-

erating in the country as at May 25, 2016, the apex bank posted on its website yesterday, showed that ProvidusBank Plc is grouped together with Suntrust Bank Nigeria Ltd as the only two commercial lenders with regional authorizations in the country. The CBN had late last year granted a regional banking

license to Suntrust Bank Nigeria Limited. The development increased the number of commercial banks in the country to 23. According to CBN guidelines, regional banks are required to have a capital base of N10billion and are allowed to operate in a minimum of five and a maximum of 10 contiguous states.

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

N19,142,526.05m N18,579,219.49m 15.6 12 10.77 US$50.84 US$26,448,391,392

Mar, 2015 Mar, 2015 May, 2016 28/03/2016 Mar 2015 25/5/2016 6/6/2016

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 104.96 114.56 112.10 120.50 109.35 100.24 83.91 98.09

1.08 3.25 3.87 5.83 7.95 9.81 14.31 18.30

NIBOR

Rate (%) 15.0000 10.6864 12.4601 13.8466

Bid Yield 10.09 10.57 11.56 11.46 12.32 12.45 12.43 12.41

Change (%) 2.17 ▲ 0.20 ▲ 0.24 ▲ 0.22 ▲

Change (%) 0.04 ▲ 0.00 ↔ 0.25 ▲ -0.07 ▼ 0.08 ▲ 0.05 ▲ 0.05 ▲ 0.04 ▲

Price 105.11 114.86 112.40 120.80 109.65 100.54 84.21 98.39

Tenor (Months)

NITTY

Rate (%) 5.4817 7.3699 7.8938 9.2453 9.3846 10.0913

1 2 3 6 9 12

Treasury Bills

Offer Yield 9.95 10.47 11.47 11.40 12.26 12.40 12.38 12.37

Change (%) 0.04 ▲ 0.00 ↔ 0.25 ▲ -0.07 ▼ 0.08 ▲ 0.05 ▲ 0.04 ▲ 0.04 ▲ Change (%) 0.25 ▲ 0.06 ▲ 0.29 ▲ 0.60 ▲ 0.45 ▲ -0.44 ▼

Money Market

Maturity Date Discount Bid Yield Change (%) Discount Offer Yield Change (%) Rate (%) Change (%) 7.90 8.06 0.26 ▲ Open-Buy-Back (OBB) 12.67 0.00 ↔ 30-Jun-16 8.15 8.32 0.26 ▲ 22-Sep-16 8.71 8.46 8.82 0.46 ▲ Overnight (O/N) 13.75 0.42 ▲ 9.10 0.46 ▲ 9.06 9.92 0.00 ↔ 16-Mar-17 9.31 10.22 0.00 ↔

Spot($/N)

Bid 198.45

Offer 198.55

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 (%) 0.00 ↔

and President Muhammadu Buhari both insisting that a weaker currency would leave consumers facing higher prices. That’s already happened, with inflation accelerating to an almost six-year high of 15.6 per cent in May. Economists have blamed the capital controls for exacerbating a foreign-exchange liquidity crisis caused by the drop in the price of oil, which accounted for two-thirds of government revenue and 90

per cent of exports in 2014. Growth was negative in the first quarter for the first time since 2004 and a recession, or two consecutive quarters of contraction, is imminent, the CBN said last month. The central bank’s reserves have fallen to a more than 10year low of $26.4 billion, as it seeks to defend the currency. The naira has plummeted to around N365 per dollar on the parallel market as shortages of the greenback worsened.

NSA President elected into African statistical body

rofessional statisticians in the continent have revived their defunct umbrella body, Statistical Association in Africa, with a view to making it more active in supporting developmental goals of various gover nments in the continent. This is even as leaders of the body, now named African Statistical Association (AfSA), at the end of the just concluded conference of Ethiopian Statisti-

cal Association (ESA) held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, constituted an Interim Committee and an advisory body. The group is to guide the revitalized association in its task of enhancing the quality, timeliness and comprehensiveness of production and the use of statistics in meeting the developmental goals of member-countries of the African Union, a statement explained.

$5.2bn global firm enters Nigerian market

ildiz Holding, CEEMEA’s largest food company, has brought together its core biscuit, chocolate, and confectionery businesses United Biscuits, Godiva Chocolatier, Ulker and DeMet’s Candy Company, to form a new global company, “pladis”, which is worth $5.2billion. The new entity according to a statement, unites internationally recognised brands McVitie’s, a leading biscuit brand in Nigeria with a heritage in the UK and Europe, Godiva, a leading premium chocolate brand worldwide, and Ulker, the leading biscuits and confectionery brand in Turkey and Middle East; a love mark in its category. Together they form a $US5.2 billion business, positioning pladis as a global leader in the category. Celebrating the launch,

Murat Ulker, Chairman of Yildiz Holding, said, “Establishing pladis is the first step in realizing the longterm strategy of Yildiz Holding. We are bringing together some of the world’s best loved brands and combining their 350 years of experience to form a new family company. We will be a global leader in biscuits and confectionery, and bring ‘bites of happiness’ to every corner of the world.” With 36 factories in 13 countries, pladis will employ 26,000 people and be led by a senior leadership team comprised of Cem Karakas, CEO, and Ali Ulker, Vice Chairman focusing on innovation and quality. The company will operate on a regional basis, with each region responsible for the manufacturing and commercial activities of the full pladis brand portfolio.

U.S. fund aims to raise $2bn for Nigerian infrastructure

.S. fund manager Pecora Capital said yesterday it would raise $2 billion over the next 18 months for Nigerian infrastructure projects, a rare show of investor confidence during a period of deep crisis in Africa’s largest economy. President Muhammadu Buhari is trying to attract foreign direct investment to help support an economy that slipped into contraction in the first quarter this year, as lower oil prices hammered Africa’s largest crude export-

er.

A string of attacks on oil pipelines by militants in the restive Niger Delta has compounded Nigeria’s economic problems and many investors have complained about the poor current business environment. “As a long-term investor we see a time of crisis as an opportunity,” Aaron Smith, Managing Director of Pecora, told Reuters. He expected the fund to achieve returns of 25 per cent a year over its 7-year lifespan.

BUSINESS |Financial Market News

Stock market extends losing band LOW CONFIDENCE Sustained sell pressure depletes equities by N24 billion Stories by Chris Ugwu

he bears sustained their grip on the activities of Nigeria’s equity market following persistent sell off that had

pervaded the stock market in recent times. Equities market losses widened to the third trading day, as both foreign and domestic investors remained on the sideline. The stock market has continued to record massive depreciation following lack of clarity surrounding the announcement by the Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN), of its plan to introduce a flexible foreign exchange regime.

At the close of business yesterday, the NSE ASI lost 0.25 per cent despite of the decline of 17 stocks registered as against only 24 gainers. Consequently, the AllShare Index dipped 69.33 basis points or 0.25 per cent to close at 27, 034.05 basis points as against 27,103.38 recorded the previous day, while market capitalisation of equities depreciated by N24billion from N9.308 tril-

AG Leventis reports N177m FY2015 PAT loss

G Leventis Nigeria Plc has reported a loss after tax of N176.986 million for the full year ended December 31, 2015. Key extracts of the accounts statement for the full year obtained from the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) showed a drop in key performance indices. The company recorded a loss after tax of tax of N176.986 million for the full year against a profit after tax of N211.813 million in 2014. Its profit before tax declined by 38 per cent to N329.382 million from N534.039 million reported in 2014. The company’s revenue how-

ever, grew marginally by six per cent to N12.535 billion during the period under review from N11.793 billion in 2014. Consequently, the firm recommended a dividend of N264.729 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The dividend, which translates to 10 kobo per share, was recommended despite the fact that group recorded a loss. Analysts attributed A.G. Leventis’ faltering performance to stiff competition, devaluation of the naira, weak consumer spending and security challenges in the northern part of the country. “We attribute the slow in bottom line level to stiff competition

from other foods companies such as Dangote Flour mills, Flour mills of Nigeria, Honeywell etc, cannibalising sales with the production of noodles,” said Kayode Omosebi, equity research analyst with United Capital in a report. The continuous pressure on consumer wallets due to the fuel hike of 2016 has dampened the demand for the company’s various products. A.G. Leventis is grappling with tough macroeconomic environment given the devaluation of the naira by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), as it seeks to control inflation and regulate the economy.

lion the previous day to N9.284 trillion. Meanwhile, a turnover of 170.6 million shares exchanged in 3,153 deals was recorded in the day’s trading. The banking sub sector of the financial services sector was the most active (measured by turnover volume) with 82.3 million shares exchanged by investors in 839 deals. Volume in the subsector was largely driven by activities in the shares of GTB Plc and UBA Plc. Also, other financial services subsector, boosted by activities in the shares of FCMB Group Plc and United Capital Plc followed with a turnover of

merging-market stocks and currencies headed for the steepest four-day declines since last January on growing concern that the U.K. will leave the European Union. Investors turned the most bearish in two months on sovereign debt. According to Bloomberg News, equity gauges from Russia to South Africa dropped at least

FBN Capital receives financial awards volving working capital facility. Reacting to the development, Director and Head of Debt Solutions for FBN Capital, Mr. Patrick Mgbenwelu said: “These awards reaffirm our ability to remain at the forefront of structuring and closing innovative financing solutions within the African Investment Banking industry. We are pleased to have upheld the trust our clients placed in FBN Capital to assist in heading, structuring and arranging the Accugas IV financing, and our

team remains committed to launching similar robustly structured financings in the local market.” FBN Capital was also awarded “Best Investment Bank in Nigeria’ by Global Finance Magazine for the fifth consecutive year. Commenting on the award, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications for FBN Capital, Lolade Sasore stated, “We are honored to receive the recognition as an acknowledgement of the high standards we deliver for our clients whom we truly see

22.6 million shares in 316 deals. Further analysis of the day’s trading showed that NEM Insurance Plc topped the day’s gainers’ table with five per cent to close at N1.05 per share, while Continental Insurance Plc followed with 4.76 per cent to close at N1.10 per share. Stanbic IBTC Plc added 4.61 per cent to close at N15.89 per share. On the flip side, GSK Nigeria Plc led the losers’ with a drop of 9.72 per cent to close at N16.44 per share while Unity Bank Plc shed 8.85 per cent to close at N1.03 per share. FCMB Group Plc was down by 5.45 per cent to close at N1.56 per share.

Emerging markets retreat for fourth day

L-R: Publisher & CEO, EMEA Finance, Christopher Moore; Associate, FBN Capital Limited, Chuma Onwuka; Group Head, Finance, Seven Energy International, Joe Kaye and Associate, FBN Capital Limited, Oladele Akinjo, at the United Kingdom for a special session.

BN Capital Limited, the investment banking and asset management subsidiary of FBN Holdings Plc., has been recognised for consistent and outstanding perfor mance by three reputable financial awards institutions. The firm according to a statement, emerged as winner of the ‘Best Refinancing in Africa’ at the EMEAFinance A c h i e ve m e n t Awards; the prestigious “Deal of the Year, Africa” at The Banker Awards; and the “Most Innovative Bank in Africa” by Global Finance Awards for Accugas IV, Seven Energy’s senior secured term loan and re-

wedneSDAY, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

as partners. As a member of the FBN Holdings Group, FBN Capital is committed to raising the bar much higher and offering our clients the most innovative solutions, demonstrating unrivaled market expertise and reliable business values. “Providing sound professional advice and execution capabilities in supporting the financing, investing, trading, securing and advisory needs of our clients is our singular focus, and our partners remain confident that they can rely on us to

1.2 per cent, as investors sold riskier assets after polls favored Britain’s “Leave” campaign before the June 23 referendum. The ruble weakened for a third day and the Hungarian forint led declines among developing-nation currencies. Poland’s bond yields jumped to the highest level in almost 12 months. Chinese shares rebounded and Pakistan’s main gauge rose to a record amid speculation the nations’ stocks will be added to the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. A gauge of projected price swings in developing-nation equities has surged 40 per cent in the past three days, the most since August, as concern that Britain will leave the EU compounded a risk-off sentiment spurred by a Fed meeting this week. While traders rule out an immediate increase in U.S. interest rates, they remain on edge over the impact of policy tightening later this year and the market fallout of a Brexit vote. “Uncertainty is the problem,” said Peter Dixon, global equities economist at Commerzbank AG in London. “Markets were priced for a ‘Remain’ vote and it now appears as though it’s not a clear-cut decision. As a consequence, they have to adjust now and the Fed concern has moved to the background temporarily.” The MSCI Emerging Markets Index fell 0.8 per cent to 803.41 in New York, taking its four-day decline to 4.6 per cent. The gauge trades at a valuation discount of 26 per cent relative to developed markets, one percentage point wider than a week ago. Nine out of 10 industry groups declined, with technology stocks the lone gainer. “It’s a trifecta of uncertainty with Brexit, the FOMC meeting later this week, and the slump in liquidity typical from June to August, which would exaggerate market movements,” said Geoffrey Ng, who oversees about $238 million as a director at Fortress Capital Asset Management Sdn. in Kuala Lumpur. “With markets on a yo-yo, we are only taking trades that are within a range and are short term.”

national | news

wednesday, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Senator cries out over Bayelsa’s exclusion from ambassadorial list

L-R: Coordinator, Nigeria Agric Business Group, Mr. Emmanuel Ijewere; Chairman, Alhaji Sani Dangote and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo during a courtesy visit to Osinbajo in Abuja … yesterday.

Chukwu David Abuja

PHOTO: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN

Yekeen Nurudeen and Mojeed Alabi

he Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has elected the President of Baptist Convention, Reverend Supo Ayekunle, as its new President. His emergence came after months of controversy about who would succeed Pastor Ayo Oristejafor amidst speculation and allegations that the Presidency wanted to impose a candidate on the body. Ayekunle emerged victorious after polling 54 votes to defeat Elder Joseph Otubu of Motailatu Church, Cherubim and Seraphim Movement (MCCSW) who garnered 28 votes in an election conducted yesterday.

CAN elects Ayekunle President amidst crisis The outgoing president of the body, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, announced the result at the Ecumenical Centre, Abuja. The election, which was earlier slated for today, was rescheduled for yesterday without notice. According to sources familiar with the infighting in the Christian body, Oritsejafor hurriedly called for the early conduct of the election in order to prevent the possible arrest of some key leaders of CAN over the ongoing leadership crisis.

£433,300

The monthly salary of Emmanuel Adebayor of Tottenham Hotspur in 2014/2015. Source: Paywizard.co.uk

Court to rule on contempt suit against INEC boss July 4 Tunde Oyesina Abuja

he Federal High Court, Abuja, yesterday fixed July 4 to determine whether the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu, should be committed to prison over the lingering crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State. The court had at the last adjourned date issued a notice of Consequence of Disobedience to Court Order, otherwise known as Form 48 on Yakubu. Also served with the notice are the commission’s Secretary, Mrs. Augusta Ogakwu and its former Director of Legal Services, Ibrahim Bawa (SAN). In the suit between the Ejike Oguebego-led state executive of the PDP in Anambra State and INEC, late Justice Evoh Chukwu, of the Federal High Court, Abuja, had stopped the commission from recognising candidates

contained in the list of nominated candidates sent by interests other than its executive. Justice Chukwu then gave an order of perpetual injunction, restraining the first defendant (PDP), its agents, servants, privies, assign, officials whatsoever name they may be called, from forwarding or submitting to the second defendant (INEC) any delegate list or nominated candidate that may emerge from the congress or primaries.

Meanwhile, the crisis rocking the apex Christian body is far from over, as the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria has threatened to pull out of the association. In a letter addressed to Oritsejafor, dated June,9 and signed by Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, Archbishop of Jos and President of Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), the church had demanded that the election be suspended, pending the resolution of some grey areas. It had also threatened to pull out of the association should the warning be ignored by Oritsejaforled CAN. Catholic Church had maintained in the letter: "The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), which

represents the Catholic Church in Nigeria, has observed with sadness how, for some years now, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has continued to deviate from the original objectives for which it was founded. "The CSN has on various occasions appealed to the leadership of CAN to do all it could to ensure that the noble ideals of the Association be not only recovered but also promoted. "Unfortunately, these appeals have so far been unheeded. This situation of things constrained the CSN to suspend active participation in the affairs of CAN, with a request that sincere efforts be made to improve on the situation."

Abuja

former governor of Plateau State, Joshua Dariye, who is standing trial before an Abuja High Court over alleged N1.6 billion fraud, yesterday changed his mind over his earlier decision to file a no-case submission after the prosecu-

Bill on political inclusion passes second reading Philip Nyam Abuja

he House of Representatives yesterday passed for second reading, a bill that sought to enhance political inclusion and participation of young Nigerians in governance. The bill, which is seeking the amendment of Section 147 of the constitution to insert a new 'sub-section 3 (ii) to read that there shall be "at least one minister who shall not be more than the age of 35 years," is sponsored by Hon. Raphael Nnanna Igbokwe (PDP, Imo). The bill, nicknamed '#Yes We Can-Bill,' also sought to amend Section

151; sub-section 2, would be amended to give room for the appointment of a special adviser to the President, who shall not be more than 35 years. Similarly, at the state level, the bill sought an amendment to Section 192, sub-section 2 (ii) to compel state governors to appoint at least a commissioner and a special adviser who shall not be more than 35 years. Leading debate on general principles of the bill, Igbokwe said the amendments became necessary considering the fact that Nigerian youths have been relegated to the background in the area of governance, leaving only the elderly to be engaged in government activities.

Dangote flags off distribution of food items for IDPs

etermined to put smiles on the faces of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North East part of the country during this Ramadan period, Dangote Foundation has commenced the distribution of food items and other relief materials in Borno State. Governor Kashim Shettima, who flagged-off the exercise in Maiduguri, was full of praises for Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the

chairman of the Foundation, for his public spiritedness and kindness, particularly picking interest in the condition of the IDPs, who are mostly victims of the Boko Haram insurgency. It will be recalled that Aliko Dangote in his recent fact-finding tour of IDPs’ camps in the NorthEast, donated N2 billion for the sustenance of the IDPs and further promised to feed them during the Ramadan.

Alleged N1.6bn fraud: Dariye changes mind over no case submission

Tunde Oyesina

he senator representing Bayelsa Central senatorial district, Emmanuel Paulker, yesterday raised the alarm that President Muhammadu Buhari, excluded Bayelsa State from the list of ambassadorial nominees he sent to the Senate for approval last week. Paulker, who came under Order 43 of the Senate Standing Orders 2015 (as amended), told the Senate in plenary that Bayelsa had been excluded from the proposed ambassadorial appointment, con-

trary to Section 14 (3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. According to him, he cited a section of the constitution that provides for fair and equitable representation of the various states of the federation in federal appointments such as ambassadorial points. The lawmaker, who is a chieftain of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), argued that the omission of his state from the list in such important federal nominations was tantamount to violation of the constitution.

tion closed its case. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had slammed charges bothering on alleged diversion of Plateau State’s ecological funds estimated at N1.16 billion on Dariye while he was governor in the state. Dariye had earlier, when the prosecution closed its case, told the

court that he was ready for his defense. Dariye, through his counsel, Garba Pwul (SAN), however, on June 10, when the defense was supposed to start, changed and told the court that he would file a no-case submission. The court then fixed yesterday for the hearing of the no-case submission.

While presenting the relief materials at Bakassi IDPs Camp to about 1, 572 households made up of displaced people from Guzaumala Local Government Area, Governor Shettima lauded Dangote Foundation for his gesture and said that words are not enough to adequately convey the gratitude of the people of Borno for the love shown to them by his Foundation. He said: “In this time of very serious challenge,

Aliko Dangote chooses to stand with people that are less privileged, the internally displaced persons, thereby depicting his love for the common man. “We remain eternally indebted to his foundation for the show of support in this trying period of our states and we will ensure that the N2 billion donation he made to the state is judiciously used in the area of health care, education and resettlement of IDPs.”

‘Certified transfusion blood to bear Lagos logo’ agos State Commis- urged families of patients L sioner for Health, Dr. to take note and report Jide Idris, has ordered such cases even as he that certified transfusion blood must bear the logo of the state government as a means of establishing its quality and credibility. Idris, who made the disclosure yesterday during a press briefing on Blood Transfusion Service to commemorate the 2016 World Blood Donor Day,

warned that erring public and private blood banks that fail to put the logo shall henceforth be sanctioned. He advised that all private blood banks in the state should be registered with the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service for effective monitoring and control.

NEWS | south-west

Ambode raises fund for cancer care at birthday Muritala Ayinla

he Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday marked his 53rd birthday celebration by raising hope for the cancer patients with the donation of multi-million fund to establish Mobile Cancer Centres, (MCC) across the three senatorial districts in the state. Prominent Nigerians, who donated generously to the course yesterday were the President of Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Chairman, Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Jim Ovia; ViceChairman of Famfa Oil, Mrs. Modupe Alakija; Sir Adebutu Kensington; Chairman of Eleganza Group, Chief Rasaq Okoya, among many others. Speaking at a forum designed to raise the funds at Ambode's 53rd birthday celebration organised by

the Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy, (CECP) at the Lagos House, Ikeja, Governor Ambode said the fundraising to procure the MCCs was the first step towards winning the fight against cancer. The governor also used the occasion to call those still in the corporate world who may want to support the course to also come on board, saying the door was still open. He said: "This will help us save millions of Nigerians from the cancer scourge. Without this donation, the war against cancer cannot be achieved. And the opportunity to save life will be lost. “It is not a celebration but a call to act because against all odds especially the economic downturn, you are still ready to stand up and give back to the society."

wednesday, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Osun: Students wear choir robes, rain coats, Jalabia, Hijabs to schools

Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

t was a sight to behold yesterday in Osun State as scores of secondary school students put on Christian and Muslim attires in replacement of their school uniforms. The Christian students, who wore different attires to school, were protesting a court judgement which allowed female students to wear hijab. That came as the Governor of the State, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, warned students in the state against wearing of unauthorised school uniforms to school. Yesterday, students were hailing themselves with pride and boasting

that it was even good for them to be wearing the outfits to schools instead of their uniforms. Some of the students, who left their various homes for their respective schools as early as 7.00 am, got to their study centres before 8.00 a.m . Some of them were armed with Christian rosaries while others came with Muslim versions (Tesbiy) in their hands while in their different classrooms. Despite their appearance in different attires, their relationship with

121

The number of fatalities in terrorists’ violence involving security force personnel in 2007. Source: Satp.org

their fellow students remained cordial as they were seen exchanging pleasantries among themselves. For instance, at the Baptist High School Adeeke, Iwo, students shunned their school uniforms for Choir robes, Jalabia, white garments, Baptist Royal Ambassadors uniform, hijabs, rain coats among others. New Telegraph investigations revealed that wearing of these clothes did not disturb the normal academic studies of the students as their teachers taught them normally. Our reporter, who had been in the school as early as some minutes to 7.00 a.m, observed that as the students greeted their teachers when they got

Salary: Ekiti workers seek God’s intervention

Suleiman Salawudeen Ado-Ekiti

ollowing the failure of the Ekiti State Government to yield to their demands over unpaid salaries, workers yesterday began a three-day fasting and prayer, insisting that no amount of bribery allegation and blackmail would stop them from pressing for the payment of their five-months salary arrears and other entitlements owed them by the government. They described as unfortunate and misleading,

the comment allegedly credited to the governor “that the workers’ protest was based on an alleged paltry sitting allowance paid them as members of the fund allocation committee.” They spoke at the commencement ceremony of the 3-day fasting and prayers meant, according to them to seek God’s intervention in their agitation. The event was coordinated by the Secretary of the Nigerian Labour Congress, Com. Oluropo Olayemi and the leadership of other labour unions in the state.

Oyo NURTW holds rally for Ajimobi as NLC kicks Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

undreds of members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) yesterday stormed the main gate of the Oyo state Government Secretariat advocating for peace in the state and an end to the ongoing industrial face-off between the government and the labour unions. The solidarity rally, which was led by its State Chairman, Alhaji Taofeek Oyerinde popularly known as 'Fele,' said the union members were with Senator Abiola Ajimobi, saying his administration had ensured that peace reigned in the state. Oyerinde promised that the union will not allow some misguided elements to distabilize the state.

Addressing the transport unionists, Governor Ajimobi said "our doors are open for negotiation and dialogue and for whoever is disenchanted with our programmes and policies. We meant well for the people of the state; we want the future of our children to be better and that is why we initiated the new education policy."

to school, they responded without comments on their outfits. Also, when class teachers were calling rolls of their students’ attendance, they responded with decorum without allowing what they wore to disturb their normal academic studies. The Co-ordinating Principal of the School, Mr. Omotayo Arowolo, refused to comment on the dressing of the students but maintained that normal academic work was going on in the school without crisis. He said: "You can observe by yourself that there is peaceful atmosphere in the school compound and learning is progressing well without disturbance".

Chairman, Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities (Ssanu), Obafemi Awolowo University (Oau Branch), Mr Ademola Oketunde, leading members of the association around the university's Senate building seven times, during a protest against the appointment of Prof. Ayobami Salami as the new Vice-Chancellor of the university, in Ile-Ife… yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Protesting OAU workers sack VC, others from office Mojeed Alabi and Adeolu Adeyemo

ndications have emerged that the management members of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State led by the ViceChancellor, Prof. Bamitale Omole, may have absconded from the campus following a week-long protest by members of the institution’s chapters of both the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and

the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU). The protest, which was in response to the announcement of the outgoing Deputy ViceChancellor (Academics), Prof. Ayobami Salami, as the university’s 11th substantive vice-chancellor, has grounded activities on the campus since Tuesday, last week. Salami, who is scheduled to replace Omole, whose tenure of office ends next week Thursday, June 21, has been

described by workers as a stooge of the outgoing vice-chancellor and that his selection was allegedly made to cover the alleged corrupt practices committed by Omole. Meanwhile, investigation by New Telegraph has revealed that since Tuesday, June 7, almost all the principal officers of the university including both the outgoing and the incoming vicechancellors had abandoned their duty posts for fear of violent attacks by the protesting work-

ers. In an exclusive interview with the Chairman of NASU, Comrade Wole Odewumi, said the protest would continue until the appointment of the new VC by the Prof. Rowland Ndoma Egbaled Governing Council of the university was reversed. All efforts to speak with the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, proved abortive as his three telephone lines were all switched off.

Ogun tasks farmers on loan repayment Lagos needs 70,000 blood units annually –Commissioner Kunle Olayeni Abeokuta

gun State government yesterday appealed to farmers, who have benefitted from its agricultural loans in the state, to ensure prompt repayment of their credit facilities. The state Commissioner for Agriculture,

Mrs. Ronke Sokefun, made the appeal at a one-day sensitization programme for farmers on agricultural development projects. Sokefun said the state government was interested in supporting farmers by granting them loans, hence its decision to establish Commercial Agricultural Credit Scheme (CACS).

Muritala Ayinla

he Lagos State Government yesterday said it would require at least an average of 70, 000 units of blood annually to ensure that pregnant women, patients and accident victims in need of blood transfusion were well taken care of. This is as the state has explained that in 2015 alone, husbands of pregnant

women and other voluntary donors donated a total of 32,619 blood units across the private and public health facilities in the state. Briefing journalists at the state secretariat to commemorate the 2016 World Blood Donor Day, the state's Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, who made the disclosure, said 87 per cent of the blood units in the state were sourced from

replacement and antenatal donors while only 13 percent of the blood were voluntarily donated. He explained that the government was not forcing expectant fathers as well as relative of pregnant women to donate blood but the policy was borne out of the need to bridge the gap of the required blood across the private and public health facilities in the state.

south-east | news

wednesday, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Ebonyi Assembly petitions FG over Provost's alleged abuse of office Uchenna Inya Abakaliki

bonyi State House of Assembly yesterday petitioned the Federal Character Commission (FCC) against the Provost of Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, Ven. Ogbonnaya Ibe-Enwo, over alleged abuse of office and lopsidedness in the institution staff ’s employment. The House made the resolution during a plenary at the Assembly complex Nkaliki. The House had set up an Ad hoc committee to investigate irregularities, lopsidedness and noncompliance to the federal character principle in the employment of staff in federal institutions in the state, particularly at the Federal University, Ndufu Alike Ikwo (FUNAI) and

the Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana. The matter was brought to the floor of the House through a motion of urgent public importance by Hon. Luke Nkwegu. The Ad hoc committee which was headed by Hon Nkemka Okoro, had while presenting the report told the House that the institutions, especially the Rector and his management team flagrantly failed to grant any of the requests made by the Ad hoc committee including request to release some documents on the course of the investigation. Okoro said the Rector and his team has failed to comply with the enabling rule, urging the House to make use of other available options to force them comply as his committee had exhausted all arsenals within its mandate to no avail.

MASSOB declares support for Niger Delta Avengers Charles Onyekwere Enugu

ovement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), has re-iterated its support for the Niger Delta Avengers. MASSOB, in a statement credited to their National Secretary, Ugwuoke Ibem Ugwuoke, said it was backing the Niger Delta Avengers because of its "total commitment, selfless service and spirit of consistency to Biafra’s struggle for actualisation and restoration of Igbo nation. It reads: "The Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) under the leadership of Comrade Uchenna Madu, has reiterated our earlier support and backing of Niger Delta Avengers, a group that has shown total commitment, selfless service and the spirit of consistency to the Biafran struggle. "MASSOB hails their demands for the unconditional release of all proBiafra agitators detained across Eastern states. "Governors of South East must release all Biafra agitators detained in their respective states now. Igbo governors should stop appeasing Hausa/Fulani-led Federal Government by their continuous clampdown and subsequent incarceration of their brothers. "We advise them to learn and emulate Yoruba governors like Ayo

Fayose. "MASSOB also urges governors Willie Obiano of Anambra State and Rochas Okorocha of Imo State to free members of other pro-Biafra groups who have been languishing in prison since 2007 and 2013 in the interest of the Ndigbo. "The detained MASSOB members at Awka prison are Sebastine Amadi, Ikechukwu Chikwem, Peter Igbokwe, Uchenna Nicholas, uche Idika, Casmir Odokara, Eni Kalu, Chidiebere Ezekwem, Chima Asoh (cripple), Ojimba Anyanwu, Ndubuisi Okam, Emmanuel Orji, Micheal Okezie, Ikechukwu Aghari, Mmaduabuchi Asika, Chinwike Irondi, Chukwuma Kalu. MASSOB members detained at Onitsha prison are Innocent Orji,Chukwuebuka Ikenwa, Amah Onu, Okwudiri Basil and Onyekachi Orji, while those in Owerri Prison are Benjamin Onwuka (Leader of Biafra Zionist Movement), and 12 other members. "MASSOB is lamenting the plight of 22 members detained in Awka and Onitsha prisons since April 2007 and that of 13 members of the Biafra Zionist Movement detained in Enugu Prison since two years ago on frivolous charges of treasonable felony and all IPOB and BIM members detained across Biafra land. "Out of the 22 MASSOB detainees, one is a cripple while two of them are females."

Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (middle); Dr. Nkemka Jombo-Ofo (fourth left); Hyundai Engineering Co. Limited delegation, Byung Chul Moon (third right) and members of Integrated Infrastructure Associate after the two strategic partners on Integrated Infrastructure development for Nigeria in Enugu…yesterday.

NUP to protest 71 months unpaid pension Steve Uzoechi Owerri

enior citizens under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Imo State have decried the non-payment of their 71 months’ pensions, threatening to down tools should their grievances be ignored by Governor Rochas Okorocha. Besides, NUP at a news conference has

called on President Muhammadu Buhari to intervene in what it described as Okorocha’s “brazen disregard for pensioners by the Imo State government noting that non-payment of pension is corruption.” Addressing newsmen, its Chairman, Chief Gideon Ezeji, lamented that pensioners in the state, had never experienced the level of brinkmanship, abandonment and hardship they were facing under the Gover-

nor Rochas Okorocha-led administration. However, the state House of Assembly blamed successive governments in the state for the pensioners’ plight, insisting that the huge problem bedevilling them was inherited from past governments. But Ezeji described the Assembly’s comment as untrue and unfair, saying that “when Chief Achike Udenwa was governor, pensions were paid though not

Ugwuanyi tasks revenue board on IGR Kenneth Ofoma Enugu

nugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi yesterday charged the State Board of Internal Revenue to come up with new and effective strategies aimed at increasing the state’s revenue base in view of the nation’s dwindling economy. Ugwuanyi said this yesterday while inaugurating the newly recon-

stituted Revenue Board in the state at the Government House, Enugu. The governor explained that the charge on the members to work hard on their assignment had become necessary in the face of the severe economic depression threatening government’s insolvency at all levels, saying that how well the new board played its role would determine the economic well-being of the state. Citing the depletion of

the federation account, the governor said there was the need for the Board to employ every avenue that would jerk up the revenue base of the state. “Government as a result of the current economic condition is struggling to meet its financial commitments to pay salaries, fund development activities, ensure social services and maintain security, among others,” the governor stated.

comprehensively. It was the same for Ikedi Ohakim. He went on: “When Ohakim left office, civil pensioners were being owed only two months pension while local government workers were owed three months. Today, civil pensioners are owed 13 to 16 months as at May 2016; Local Government pensioners, 14 to 17 months; retired primary school teachers, 23 to 26 months; Imo Broadcasting Corporation pensioners, 36 months and Alvan Ikoku College of Education pensioners, 68 to 71 months. It is indeed outrageous, how senior citizens are treated in Imo State today.”

Governor Ugwuanyi pointed out that he had envisaged the situation when he warned in his inaugural speech that revenue generation agencies should be ready to intensify efforts to generate more revenues to fund government’s development’s efforts. He equally charged members of the board to ensure that all revenues accruable to government were fully collected and avenues of leakages be effectively checked.

Umahi inaugurates committee, votes NBA vows to defend members N130m for youth empowerment against rights' abuse

Uchenna Inya Abakaliki

bonyi State Governor, Dave Umahi, yesterday inaugurated a committee on youths and women empowerment. Inaugurating the committee at the executive chambers, Government House Abakaliki, Umahi called on members to tap into every available opportunity in different sectors with a view to taking the state to greater heights. Besides, the governor implored them to look into employment opportunities going on in many federal

establishments and ensure that Ebonyi indigenes were well represented, saying he had set aside N130 million for empowerment of youths across the political wards in the state. He said: “Employment is going on by the day secretly in Abuja and elsewhere, it is your duty to ensure that Ebonyi people are employed in those places. “A sub-committee of this committee can look into the tomatoes programme in the state. The sub-committee can also look into the poultry programme. The sub-committee can also look into our rice production.”

Steve Uzoechi Owerri

he Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Imo State Branch has declared its resolve to resist and stand against any act of impunity and rights violation as it affects the operations of its members in the state. This declaration was made by the incoming Chairman of the association, Lawrence Nwakaeti, during the Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Bar Association, Owerri Branch. Delivering his accep-

tance speech at the event, the new NBA boss said his leadership would ensure a robust relationship between lawyers and security agencies, pledging to protect lawyers from intimidation. He enjoined government and its agencies to desist from acts capable of infringing on the rights of lawyers or jeopardize their work, so as to avoid conflicts with lawyers. He said: “I hereby pledge to protect any lawyer who faces any form of intimidation or harassment while carrying out his duty of defending his client."

42 News|south-South

$3.5bn Brass petrochemical firm to employ 30,000 Chris Ejim YENAGOA

ayelsa Development and Investment Corporation (BDIC) yesterday said the $3.5 billion Brass Fertilizer and Petrochemical project to be sited at Odioma in Brass Local Government Area is expected to generate a turnover of $1.5 billion and employ about 30, 000 workers, especially indigenes. The corporation, therefore, predicted a prosperous future for the people of the state as it intensi-

fied action on restructuring the state economy and expanding economic opportunities. Deputy Managing Director of BDIC, Tam Alazigha, in an interview with journalists in Yenagoa, said the new offices that were opened in South Africa, United Kingdom and Atlanta, United States, would “take Bayelsa to the world and bring the world to Bayelsa” by opening outposts in strategic locations in the various key markets in order to leverage on opportunities that the markets offer

to drive the restoration of the Bayelsa economy. He said: “The $3.5billion Brass Fertilizer and Petrochemical project at Odioma, is expected to generate a turnover of $1.5billion and employ about 30,000 Bayelsans. This high-impact catalytic project is expected to produce 5,000 metric tonnes of methanol per day, 2,200 metric tonnes of ammonia per day, and 7,700 metric tonnes of urea per day, for domestic and export markets. “This humongous project will ensure availability of high-grade fertilizer for

farmers throughout the planting season and meet 25percent of the country’s projected annual domestic demand of 10 million metric tonnes. The BDIC is to take up a 10 percent equity stake in the project. “The only property owned by the corporation are those in the U.K located at St. John’s Wood registered under BDIC UK Ltd and forms part of the assets in the balance sheet of the corporation. The property was bought at £2.3 million but is now valued at over £3 million with a monthly rental income of £7000.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Dickson inaugurates committee to tackle criminality Chris Ejim YENAGOA

ayelsa State Government has constituted a Students’ Management Committee to tackle student related issues, with a view to re-orientating them with values for positive development. The committee is chaired and coordinated by Ebipatei Apaingolo. Members of the committee include, Evans Baribote, Eteli Tuanam, Atti Moses, Maxwell Obesi and Miss Imoemi Tombofa. Others are Ipogi Tony, Oweifie Success, Fortune Jack, Jeremiah Owoupele, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on NYSC, Suoyo Appah and Tari Pori, SSA on Youths, Ekeremor

LGA. Among the terms of reference include collaborating with other youth bodies in the state, towards managing the affairs of students as well as checking acts of cultism and other forms of criminality among the youths in general. Governor Seriake Dickson, who performed the inauguration charged members of the committee to sensitize students on the prevailing national economic challenges and its attendant effects on states. According to him, as future leaders, it was imperative to incorporate the student body into the activities of the government to enable them be abreast of the political and socioeconomic issues.

Niger Deltan drags FG before ECOWAS court L-R: Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson; Minister of State for Petroleum and Group Managing Director of NNPC, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu and coordinator and Special Adviser to Mr. President on Presidential Amnesty Programme, Grig-General Paul Boroh rtd, during a courtesy call at Government House, Yenagoa, … yesterday

INEC: Rivers politicians behind delay in rerun elections Emmanuel Masha PORT HARCOURT

he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has blamed politicians in Rivers State for the delay in the conclusion of the remaining National Assembly rerun elections. The state’s INEC chairman, Aniedi Ikoiwak, who made the allegation in Port Harcourt at a stakeholders’ meeting attended by leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC),

Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

t was anger and pains for staff of the African Independent Television (AIT) as the management yesterday relieved those working at Benin station office of their appointments with immediate effect. The decision was conveyed to the already distressed workers in a letter dated June 2, 2016 and signed by Mr Victor Okasoga, Senior Manager

said that INEC was ready to conclude the rerun elections, but needs the cooperation of the political parties to do so. He said that INEC’s national headquarters in Abuja has sanctioned the conclusion of the election, but pointed out that the Rivers office cannot hold the election without politicians expressing readiness to play by the rules of engagement. “The election can be held by the end of June or early July, but the date depends on when candidates agree that the election will be

concluded. But we have to be prepared for election to take place. “If we all agree between now and July, the election will be concluded. It is necessary for us to work toward the electoral process,” Ikoiwak said. He dismissed claims from some quarters that INEC has tampered with some unannounced results during the last rerun elections, noting that they are safe and intact. According to Ikoiwak, “Some of the elections that were not announced

are intact. I want to assure that once the results are released, you won’t find another result.” He said the results were sealed and taken to the strong room of INEC, noting that it would amount to tampering if he demands for them. The Chairman of APC, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, who also spoke at the meeting, observed that it takes a long time to go through the judicial process, alleging that some candidates who benefited from violence continue to occupy their seats.

AIT sacks workers in Edo, NUJ angry

in charge of Human Resources. But some of the sacked workers disclosed that they were being owed salaries for upwards of two years. Okasoga said their appointments have been terminated with effect from June 13, 2016 and directed those affected in the letter to handover all company properties in their “possession, especially, your identity cards and other

properties belonging to company to the Head of the centre (station). According to the letter, “Failure to surrender company properties in your possession may delay the processing of your entitlements”. The affected staff, including reporters, cameramen, presenters and producers had protested three weeks ago against the company’s undue delays in the payment of salaries due to

them which run into a year and six months. The leadership and members of the Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) yesterday kicked against the sack of the workers. Chairman of the union in the state, Sir Rowland Osakwe, noted that the media organisation erred when it showed the staff the door without fulfilling its financial obligations to them.

Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

COWAS Community Court of Justice sitting in Abuja, will tomorrow call witnesses in the suit filed before it by some concerned Niger Delta indigenes against the Federal Government over the violation of the fundamental human rights of people of the oil rich region. The plaintiffs in the suit, ECW/CCJ/APP/20/15, are Mr. Nosa Ehanire-Osaghae, Mr. Jonah Gbemre, Mr. Aiko Obobaifo and Mr. Daniel Ikponmwosa, on behalf of the Niger Delta people while the defendant include the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Counsel for both parties have since concluded their pleadings in the suit instituted over a year ago. The plaintiffs are asking the West Africa Court

of Justice to stop the Federal Government from depriving the Niger Delta of their God-given oil blocks vis-à-vis natural resources which it allocated to foreign oil companies and non-indigenes from other parts of the country at the peoples’ expense, and impoverishment of the communities and the residents. Other demands of the plaintiffs represented by their counsel, Sophia Okoedion, of H.S Okoedion Chambers include: “That the Federal Republic of Nigeria has violated the fundamental human rights of Niger Deltans to life and a healthy environment by the hazardous flaring of gas in their host communities unabated for the last 30 years, which has resulted in many health casualties, fatalities and untimely deaths without adequate reliefs and compensations.”

Rep empowers constituents with working tools Tony Anichebe UYO

s part of his town hall meeting and empowerment programme, the member representing Etinan Federal Constituency and the Chairman, House Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Relations in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Sam Ikon, yesterday empowered over 500 people with working tools such as desktop computer, sewing machine, motor cycle, generator, clipper, welding machine, grinding machine, grass cutter and refrigerator among several others, in a bid to fulfill his earlier campaign promise to the people. “It is worthy of note that the administration as led by our dear Governor, Emmanuel Udom,

has shown a great sense of direction in the pursuit of youth engagement through entrepreneurial skill trainings, vocation, improved ICT knowledge, grants to farmers, widows etc as well as improved platform for the inter-personal engagement between the government and its citizenry,” said Ikon, a former speaker of the state Assembly. Ikon maintained that the town hall meeting and empowerment programme seeks to follow the trend as well as honour the mandate of the office he swore to uphold. The lawmaker was very delighted to be deeply appreciated by his kinsmen, women and youths while urging the beneficiaries to make the best use of the tools, adding that great things start from small beginning.

north | news

wednesday, june 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Bello pulls down facilities at Kogi Assembly complex Muhammad Bashir Lokoja

fforts by 15 members of the Kogi State House of Assembly (G15) to resume plenary yesterday were further compounded as Governor Yahaya Bello, commenced the demolition of facilities for the renovation of the Assembly complex. Workers of the complex and journalists woke up to see bulldozers pulling down the structure housing the mace while also excavating the floor of the chamber and the gallery. It was gathered that the governor was using the demolition, being carried out in the name of repairs in the complex, to avoid the implementation of the Abuja High Court ruling, which declared the impeachment of Momoh

Jimoh Lawal led principal officers of the House, null and void and of no effect. The G15, based on the judgement, which was in their favour, had two weeks ago attempted to resume sitting, but were allegedly chased away by gunmen believed to be security men, while the same men escorted the G5, who were loyal to the governor, inside the Assembly complex to have their meeting. The actions of the security agents, meddling into affairs of the Assembly, have been generating uproars among security agencies over the unprofessional conduct of some uniformed men. The G5 members had in February, impeached the Speaker, Momoh Jimoh Lawal and his principal officers and replaced him with Umar Imam, an action that was considered an albatross to the integri-

ty of the legislature, which drew the ire of the National Assembly which swiftly took over the legislative duties of the Assembly. Speaking with New Telegraph on the issue yesterday, Umar Yakubu, the chief press secretary to the factional speaker, Umar Imam, said the governor was only responding to request to give the complex a facelift. He added that the speaker had during the one-year anniversary of the House of Assembly, appealed to the governor to effect repairs on the complex, which he called the worst Assembly complex in the 36 states of the federation. Meanwhile, Governor Bello yesterday described the allegation of anti-party activity leveled against him by some people in the state as treacherous and a plot by those he described as people that did not mean

well for the state, to distract his administration. He said such people would stop at nothing to make sure that the present underdevelopment in the state continues. According to Governor Bello, this group of people has continued to plot one form of distraction or the other aimed at bringing the government down, but that they will not succeed as "majority of the citizenry have decided to support our administration to turn around the fortunes of the state that has been on a downward slope." The governor in a statement signed by his Special Adviser, Media and Strategy, Mallam Abdulmmalik Abdulkarim, said the allegation is spurious and should be thrown to the dogs, insisting that "members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) are well represented in Gover-

nor Yahaya Bello's administration even though he has earlier made it clear that he was going to run an all-inclusive government." The governor said it is unfortunate that some persons see themselves as the only people fit to hold public office in the state and be in control of government and anything outside that is either labeled anti-party or given another negative connotation to give the present administration a bad name. "Before now, this administration has stressed that owning to the endemic underdevelopment in the state and the need to quickly jumpstart our economy, we are open to allowing all Kogi people make input into this administration. We are prepared to operate an all-inclusive government and move ahead with a combination of politicians and techno-

crats that will drive our idea of where we want to take Kogi State to," he said. Part of the statement also advised "any aggrieved member of the APC that is not happy with the present situation to ventilate his anger,” but not use the vehicle of ethnic, religious and political sentiments. The recent appointment of commissioners could be seen to be an example of all-inclusiveness in government. For instances, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Tim Dad Diche, hails from Bassa Local Government. "The commissioner from Idah Local Government Area, Prince Salisu Sani Ogu, is a staunch member of the APC in the state." His father, Alhaji Sani Ogu, is a chieftain of the party, which any wellknown politician can attest to.

Tambuwal announces 70% subsidy on fertilizer Umar Abdullahi Sokoto

okoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, yesterday announced a 70 per cent subsidy in the price of fertilizer in the state. The governor made the announcement while flagging off the sale of fertilizer in the state. In attendance at the event yesterday was the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Saad Abubakar. Speaking at the occasion, which took place at Silame council area,

Taraba teachers embark on strike Sabiu Mustapha JALINGO

he Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Taraba State chapter yesterday said it was embarking on strike to press home its demands from the state government. Chairman of the union, Aliyu Jauro Mafindi, announced this yesterday at a media briefing in Jalingo, the state capital. It will be recalled that the union had embarked on on a three-day warning strike which it later suspended talks with the state government. Mafindi said the decision to go on strike was taken after the state executive of the union convened a meeting on June 13, 2016, to deliberate on the way forward after its last dialogue with the state government.

Governor Tambuwal said the state government has subsidised the cost of the commodity by 70 percent to enable farmers enhance their production. He said the government has procured three types of fertilizers which include Urea, NPK and SSP brands. “This year, Urea brand, bought by the government at N6,859, will be sold to farmers at the price of N2,300; NPK, which was procured at the cost N6,400, will be sold at the rate of N2,200 while SSP, also bought at the rate of N6,400, will be sold to our farmers at the rate of N2,100,” the governor said. The governor, however, added that his administration would not relent on efforts to improve agriculture in the state. According to him, government has also procured 19, 620 bags of rice seeds of 50kg size to be distributed to rice farmers for the 2016 wet and dry season farming.

Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima (3rd right), addressing the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), who were part of those moved from Bama to a special care unit in Maiduguri on Monday… yesterday

Octogenarians send SOS to CJN over Kwara’s pension case Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

ome octogenarians from Kwara State, representing more than 9,000 pensioners in the state have sent a saveour-soul message to the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mahmud Mohammed, to intervene in the lingering appeal filed by the state government against a judgement of the Court of Appeal on their pension entitlements since 2011.

The pensioners’ representatives, in a petition to the CJN, a copy of which has been sighted by our reporter, are asking the CJN to facilitate a new hearing date for the case, following the inability of the apex court to hear the matter on two occasions; September 28, 2015 and February 15, 2016. The matter has been before the apex court since 2011 and in 2014, the pensioners similarly petition the then CJN, intimating him that several of their members were dying and

EU earmarks N220m for routine immunisation in Zamfara Idris Salisu Gusau

he European Union Support to Immunisation Governance of Nigeria (EU-SIGN) has earmarked N220 million in support of Zamfara State Government towards reducing child morbidity and mortality in the state. Zamfara State EUSIGN project team leader,

Lawal Umar Bungudu, announced this yesterday at the flagging off of the project in Gusau, the state capital. He said the objective of the intervention is to ensure that sustainable routine immunisation services are permanently available through effective Primary Health Care system in the state. He said within the short period of the proj-

ect, it has provided the state with four units of solar direct -drive refrigerators, adding that EU-SIGN would improve delivery of routine immunisation services across the local councils of the state. Bungudu further revealed that the project would create awareness on the need for increase in routine immunisation demand services in the various communities.

those alive were no longer sure they would benefit from the pension, given their advanced age. Those who signed the current petition include; Alhaji Fulani Ishola Balogun (82 years), who retired as Principal Agric Superintendent, Tejumola Adebayo (81 years), who retired as Chief Nursing Officer, Alhaji Tijani Gbadebo (78 years), who retired as Director General, Michael Ore Oyeyipo, who retired as Head of Service and Alhaji AbdulRasheed Salaman, who retired as Secretary to the State Government. Other signatories are; Sir Anthony Adejumo, who retired as Deputy Director of Lands, Chief Yunusa Oyeyemi, who retired as Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Saka Afolabi (76 years), who retired as Auditor General, Alhaja Raliat Sanni (76 years), who retired as Director General, Alhaji Yahya Nurudeen and Alhaji Ibiyeye, H. B. The list also includes David Malomo (74 years), Chief Olawuyi Joseph

(76 years), Chief Fodeke Abiodun, Hon. Joseph Abegunde, John Aje and Aransiola Abraham. Part of the letter, dated April 20, 2016, reads: “We are the representatives of the 9, 030 government accredited pensioners that instituted this matter at the High Court level, precarious as the applicant at the Court of Appeal level and eventually to have our victory tested by way of appeal before the Supreme Court. “Those of us chosen as representatives of the respondents are between the ages of 70 and 90 years and the classes of pensioners that make up the respondents are those who retired between 1976 and 1999 after serving Kwara State for 35 years or reached the age of 60. A person who retired in 1999 at the age of 60 or thereabout will now be 77 years of age. “Arising from the foregoing, so many of the respondents have died even before and after we recorded success at the Court of Appeal."

NEWS

WORLD \ NEWS

FG trying to end militancy in Niger Delta, says Kachikwu

he Federal Government yesterday assured the people of the Niger Delta that the ongoing efforts aimed at addressing the issue of insecurity were not cosmetic but intended to achieve enduring peace and stability in the region. The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, gave the assurance during a cour-

tesy call on Bayelsa State Governor, Henry Seriake Dickson. He was accompanied by the Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari and Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Gen. Paul Boroh (retd). Kachikwu said the Federal Government was committed to “a financially driven and economically motivated pattern” of resolving security concerns and development in Bayelsa and the entire region. The Minister appealed

to the Niger Delta agitators to embrace dialogue for the common good of all stakeholders, noting that oil as a God-given resource was endowed in the region to unify the people of the country. Also speaking, Boroh described the on-going peace initiative as allencompassing as it was designed to engage all stakeholders, including fishermen in the creeks in terms of information gathering and dissemination towards achieving “a seamless and peaceful Niger Delta.”

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Violence erupts as thousands rally against labour law in Paris

angs of masked youths smashed windows and hurled stones at riot police as thousands of people marched through Paris yesterday in protest at a planned change of labor laws that would make hiring and firing easier. Police fired dozens of volleys of teargas and used water cannon to disperse highly mobile groups of mostly blackclad youths. The police department reported 13 arrests in the early stages of a street march

led by labor unions. After violent clashes between riot police and masked youths during previous demonstrations, Paris police had feared further incidents and banned 130 would-be troublemakers before yesterday’s rally even began. It was not immediately clear which group, if any, the youths belonged to. The government and police have condemned what they say are groups of ultra-violent youths who join protests looking for a fight. Yesterday’s

march comes at a time when police are stretched to ensure security during the month-long Euro soccer tournament, with France on maximum alert since Islamist militants killed 130 people in November. The CGT labor union said the march would be the biggest show of strength since protests over the planned labor reform began in early March. “This is not the end,” CGT leader Philippe Martinez said. “The struggle is far from over.”

Reps want 10-year life-span for Nigerian passport Philip Nyam Abuja

he House of Representatives, yesterday urged the Federal Government to revert to the 10-year passport policy following series of challenges faced by Nigerians living abroad to renew their passports. The House also mandated its committee on interior, led by Hon. Jagaba Adams Jagaba to liaise with the Ministry of Interior and Nigerian

Immigration Service on the policy. This followed a motion by Hon. Samson Olugbemi (Oyo-APC), which was unanimously adopted by members through a voice vote. Leading debate on the motion, Olugbemi explained that before the introduction of the e-passport by NIS, the Nigerian passport had a five years validity period subject to revalidation for another five years only. He further explained that the process of re-

newal of the old passport was simple and efficient, as it required mere stamping by an authorised Immigration official to indicate a new expiring date. Olugbemi noted that the 10-year lifespan of the Nigerian passport was in tandem with international best practices because countries issue travelling visas which vary from two weeks to 10 year period. He however, argued that the arbitrary change in the new policy was inflicting hardship and inconveniences to Nigerians at home and abroad.

Telcos seek 60% cut in levies Kunle Azeez

elecoms operators, under the auspices of the Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), have appealed to the Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA), to consider a 60 per cent reduction in telecoms levies and 95 per cent in Right of Way (RoW) charges. Speaking in a statement made available to New Telegraph yester-

day, ATCON President, Mr. Olusola Teniola, said the reductions will enable telecom operators to deploy much-needed facilities, provide quality services for consumers and contribute to the penetration of broadband services in Nigeria. Teniola made the call when he led a team of ATCON members to pay the General Manager of LASIMRA, Mr. Babajide Odekunle, a courtesy visit. Teniola explained that telecoms companies

were concerned about the implications of the proposed underground cable duct audit and the telecom towers audit by LASIMRA. Reacting to ATCON requests, Odekunle noted that LASIMRA’s primary responsibility was to the people of Lagos State, saying the agency’s role is to provide an enabling environment for telecom operators to provide quality services to Lagos State residents at a reasonable and affordable price.

Oyo Assembly clears 15 commissioner-nominees Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

yo State House of Assembly yesterday confirmed the nomination of 15 commissioners- nominee forwarded to it a fortnight ago by Governor Abiola Ajimobi. The nominees, who will soon be assigned portfolios, included Ms Taibat A. Adaba, believed to be a nominee of the Alaafin of Oyo; Barr. Prince Oyewumi Oyewole, son of the

Soun of Ogbomosho who contested the House of Representatives election in the 2015 general election and lost to a Labour Party candidate, and a governorship aspirant during the 2015 gubernatorial election, Dr Azeez Adeduntan. Others are Mr. Abimbola Adekanmbi, former deputy Chief of staff to the Governor; Mrs Atinuke Silifat Osunkoya, immediate-past Commissioner for Women Affairs; Mr Abimbola Kolade, former Commissioner for Works; Barr. Abayomi Oke,

son of APC Chairman in Oyo State, Chief Akin Oke; Mr Wasiu O. Dauda also a former Commissioner; Mr Ajiboye Omodewu, a former Commissioner for Lands and Mr Isaac Ishola Adisa. While confirming their nomination, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon Michael Adeyemo, said the people screened by the House were quality men with good pedigree “and their choice was a confirmation that the executive governor of the state was a man of quality”.

Protesters throwing stones as demonstrators clash with anti-riot police during a protest in Paris, against the French government’s proposed labour law.

Psychologist: Oscar Pistorius’ mental state worsening

scar Pistorius is no psychopath and the likelihood of his re-offending is minimal, according to a clinical psychologist called by the defense today at the athlete’s sentencing hearing in South Africa. But Professor Jonathan Scholtz also said he would hospitalize Pistorius if he were his patient, describing him as a broken man whose depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder are much worse than in 2014 when he saw the double-amputee during his stay in a psychiatric hospital. Pistorius re-

turned to court today for the conclusion of his highly publicized murder trial. A judge is hearing arguments this week from the defense and prosecution, and is expected to deliver a sentence later this week. The National Prosecuting Authority has said it wants the South African athlete to spend a minimum of 15 years in prison for killing his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, through a bathroom door at his Pretoria home in February 2013, which Pistorius has said was an accident. Professor Scholtz, who assessed Pistorius again in

May to compile a pre-sentencing report, also told the court today that the Paralympian never again wants to touch a gun in his life and that he sold all his firearms. Pistorius also gets anxious when he hears gunshots, even if it’s only on television, Scholtz said. But prosecutor Gerrie Nel accused Scholtz of being biased in favor of Pistorius. The hearing, which adjourned for the day, will continue Tuesday when the defense will call a new witness. Pistorius was initially sent to prison for five years for culpable homicide.

US seeks motive for Orlando shooter’s rampage

S investigators yesterday were digging into what motivated a Florida man to slaughter 49 people at a gay nightclub, including evidence that he had become absorbed in militant Islamist ideas and reports he might have been gay himself, but not openly so. US law enforcement officials are investigating reports that the man who killed 49 people at a gay nightclub in Orlando may have been gay himself, but not openly so, two officials said yesterday, with one

describing the massacre as a possible “self-hate crime.” Omar Mateen, who was shot dead by police after a three-hour standoff early on Sunday, left behind a tangled trail of possible motives. He also called police during his rampage to voice allegiance to various militant Islamist groups. Federal investigators have said Mateen was likely self-radicalized and there is no evidence that he received any instruction or aid from outside groups such as Islamic State. Mateen, 29, was a US

citizen, born in New York of Afghan immigrant parents. “We currently do not have any information to indicate that a foreign terrorist group directed the attack in Orlando,” President Barack Obama told reporters after a meeting of the National Security Council. “It is increasingly clear, however, that the killer took in extremist information and propaganda over the internet. He appears to have been an angry, disturbed, unstable young man who became radicalized.”

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

Sport

Did you know? That Guus Hiddink last season set a record of 12-match unbeaten run and no manager in the EPL’s history has gone 12 games without a defeat from when their reign started.

Blatter accuses UEFA of fixing draws

epp Blatter denies giving Argentina an easy draw at the 2014 World Cup, but claims he has witnessed fixes at UEFA level through the use of “cold and hot balls”. Argentina were pitted against Nigeria, Iran and Bosnia-Herzegovina in Brazil two years ago, but the disgraced former FIFA president denied there was an intention to give the two-time world champions a favourable group. However, Blatter alleges to have witnessed premeditated draws by Europe’s governing body, with refrigerated balls used to rig the outcome. “The [2014 World Cup] draw was clean until the last detail,” the 80-year-old said. “I never touched the balls, which was something that others had to do. Of course, it can be signalled, by heating or cooling them. “It’s technically possible. It did not happen in FIFA, but I witnessed draws at a European level in which it happened - but never in FIFA. “It could have happened, but in my case it never did, ever. “If you put the balls in the refrigerator before, a simple comparison between one and the other by touching them determines the cold and hot balls. By touching them you already know what it is.” In March, Blatter lodged an appeal against a six-year ban from football with the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Group Sport Editor

Emmanuel Tobi Assistant Sport Editor

Ajibade Olusesan Sport Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya Sport Correspondent

NBA Finals: Cavaliers beat Warriors in Game Five leveland Cavaliers beat Golden State Warriors 112-97 to reduce the deficit to 3-2 in the best-ofseven NBA Finals. LeBron James and Kyrie Irving each netted 41 points to become the first team-mates to score more than 40 points in the same NBA Finals match. Steph Curry scored only 25 points and the Warriors also missed the suspended Draymond Green as they failed to clinch the title on their home court. Warriors return to Cleveland, where they won the 2015 title, in game six. No side has come back from 3-1 down to win the Finals but the Cavaliers will feel they now have the momentum on their home court on Thursday to take it to a decider on Sunday. They hit 10 of 24 three-pointers to hand the Warriors their fourth home loss this season. It was level at 61-61 at half-time, but Cleveland then outscored their hosts 51-36, with Curry particularly wasteful as the Warriors hit just three of 21 three-points during that period. It is now 26 consecutive series for James with at least one road win, extending his NBA record.

Andre Iguodala (left) chases down Irving during the highest-scoring first half in an NBA Finals game

Aluko: Frequent change of coaches, bane of Eagles S

Adekunle Salami

Amodu’s family battles Oshiomhole

Emmanuel Tobi

The Sport Team

Sport News

uper Eagles forward Sone Aluko has blamed the recent poor performances of the national team on the inconsistency in the coaching crew. Speaking in an interview with New Telegraph on Tuesday, Aluko also urged the Nigeria Football Federation to bridge the gap between the players and coaches. “We have different coaches with different players and styles in the past four years and that is why we have missed out of the last two African Nations Cup competitions. “You cannot do that and expect results because each of the coaches has different ideology, style and background in the game. The NFF will have to be strict on this to make the team better. I can confirm to you that the players are all worried about this,” Aluko stated. The 27-year-old who dumped

England to play for Nigeria also mourned the demise of Shaibu Amodu who handed him his first national team call up in 2009 and Stephen Keshi who he played under in 2014. “Amodu and Keshi were great men and their impact on Nigerian football cannot be forgotten,” he added. He also dispelled the notion that he had retired from international football, “I stop getting invitation because of changing of coaches. I’m still available for selection.” Aluko said he was discussing a move to an English Premier League club after he was released by Hull City, who have been promoted to the top flight. “I have a few offers to consider, but at 27 I’m at the peak of my career and so I have to take a good decision on where I will play next,” Aluko said. “There are interests in the EPL, the Championship and also from abroad.”

Aluko (left)

SPORT NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

D’Tigress restore Olympics hope, defeat Korea Emmanuel Tobi

igeria women’s basketball team D’Tigress’ quest of securing a ticket for the 2016 Rio Olympics received a boost on Tuesday as they rallied to beat Korea 70-69 in the closest game so far at the 2016 FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The team lost their first group C game 71-60 to Belarus on Monday, but after trailing for most of the contest against Korea, Ezinne Kalu hit a three-pointer with 4.6

seconds left to play to rescue Nigeria from a potential elimination. Korea paid the price for getting little production from their bench players who contributed only 11 points against Nigeria’s 37 while Kalu converted a three-point play with 2:51 remaining but that was just the beginning of a stretch that saw four lead-changes until the final buzzer sounded. Kalu not only turned out to be a game-changer but also her team’s new hero after scoring 11 points off the bench for Nigeria.

Korea head coach We Sungwo commended the Nigerian coaching staff who called a timeout when trailing 69-67 with 12 seconds to go. In the ensuing possession, Kalu executed the gamewinning play that edges Nigeria closer to the quarterfinals. Twelve teams are taking part in the qualifiers, with the top five sides earning places in the 2016 Olympics basketball tournament. The 2016 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament which began on Monday will end on Sunday.

D’Tigress’ Sarah Ogoke (right) challenging a South Korean player for the ball

Amodu’s family battles Oshiomhole

Sam Ocheho/Innjoo Handball

Edo Dynamos, Civil Defence win Emmanuel Tobi

do Dynamos girls and The Flowers of Benin Republic continued their good run on Tuesday in the women’s category of the ongoing third Sam Ocheho/Innjoo Mobile Handball Championship at the Rowe Park Sports Complex, Yaba. The Edo girls worked

...over alleged unpaid N25m salary arrears

Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

he family of late former Super Eagles coach, Shaibu Amodu, may have resorted to a fight against the Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole. This followed revelations in Benin City, Edo State capital on Tuesday that the state government was indebted to the late coach to the tune of about N25m being arrears of salaries, signon-fees, house rent and other allowances before he died. A six-page un-signed letter obtained by our reporter written by Amodu in October 2015 to Governor Oshiomhole had indicated the huge sum. Family had expressed sadness that the former coach of defunct BCC Lions Football Club of Gboko died of frustration. He died in his sleep on Saturday.

According to one of Amodu’s close relations and cousin, Nkuri Afegbua, who spoke with newsmen at the premises of the Stella Obasanjo Hospital mortuary, the ex-Super Eagles handler was being owed by both Edo and Nigeria Football Federation. According to the letter by Amodu, the amount being owed him includes N6million for outstanding sign-on-fees for 2013/2014 for consultant, N3million for house rent covering two years (2012-2014 and 2013-2014) at N1.5million per year, among others as well as a balance of N16million, representing payment for coaches and other supporting staff for the period of August 2014 – July 2015. It was learnt that late Amodu’s resolve to write the letter allegedly followed the governor’s refusal to meet or discussed with him in spite of various entreaties made for such purpose.

he Association of Nigerian Bookmakers, the parent body of Sports Betting companies in Nigeria, will on Friday, June 17, stage its first stakeholders summit in Lagos. The summit with the theme ‘Opportunities Meet Challenges’, is scheduled for Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, and will see the owners of the top sports betting companies in the country making presentations. Speaking ahead of the summit, the chairman of ANB and the owner of NairaBet.com, Akin Alabi, said: “The body was set up to protect the interest of the industry and also to groom the sector.” He added: “We decided to come together and have discussion on how to move the industry forward hence the need for the event. “We have no doubt that there are huge opportunities in sports betting for everybody, but it has come with a lot of challenges, regulatory problems, security

issues, financial difficulties and so many others, we need to find a way around it. “These are some of the things we are going to be discussing during the meeting and that is why we have invited the DG of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission,

first victory and we hope to improve on it. We are yet to reach our peak, but we hope to improve in our subsequent matches.” He also commended the organisers of the tournament saying: “I want to give kudos to Sam for this championship, it is not an easy thing for an individual to organise this type of competition for the love of the game.”

NNPC/Shell Cup: FOSLA, Excel qualify for final

Sport betting companies for stakeholders’ summit Charles Ogundiya

so hard to subdue the Queen Abidjan in a very close contest which ended with a scoreline of 24-18 in favour of the Nigerian girls. Similarly, The Flowers of Benin, after a close contest, defeated Civil Defence Babes 21-20 as the match witnessed many anxious moments. Coach of the Edo Dynamos, Aaron Okojie, said: “This is our

Mr. Adolphus Ekpe, for the meeting and others like Lanre Gbajabiamila, CEO, Lagos State Lottery Board; CSP Abayomi Shogunle, Officer-In-Charge Complaint Response Unit, FAQ, Abuja, Ola Faro, Senior Associate Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) & Co, among others.”

wo teams; FOSLA Academy, Abuja and Excel Education Centre Port Harcourt on Tuesday qualified for the final of 2016 NNPC/Shell Cup competition organised for all the 36 Secondary Schools in the country. FOSLA defeated Asegun Comprehensive High school Ibadan 3-0 in the first semifinal encounter in the match decided at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere. It was a highly interesting match which brought out the best in the two sides to

the delight of the representatives of Feyenoord Academy who were also present at the venue. Abdulahi Muhammed scored twice while Alayi Haruna recorded the third goal for FOSLA Academy. The Feyenoord representatives from Holland with Nigeria’s former international, Mike Obiku, in the team, had a training session with the four semifinalists on Tuesday morning. In the second semifinal, Excel walloped Science school 4-0 in another entertaining

encounter which saw Ogidi Joseph recording a hattrick for the Port Harcourt team. Benjamin Jacob is the other scorer of the team in the one-sided match. The stage is now set for the final which takes place at the same venue on Thursday. “Both the finalists and the semifinal losers are still going to continue intensive training under the supervision of our team. These players are very strong and all they need now are little tips to better their careers,” Obiku said.

CBN splashes N14 m on tennis players Ajibade Olusesan

entral Bank of Nigeria will dole out N14.3 million in prize money for players as the 38th edition of CBN Senior Open Tennis Championship serves off from June 16 to 25 in Lagos. Sintiki Thaanda, who represented the bank’s acting Director of Communication, Isaac Okorafor, said at the media briefing to herald the Tennis player, tournament that just as Moses Michael last year, the winners of

both men and women’s singles would go home with N700,000 each while runners up in the two categories get N500,000. She said the wheelchair tennis, introduced in 2013 had come to stay and the winner in that category would smile to the bank with N250, 000. “The CBN Senior Open Championship is the only major tournament in the calendar of the Nigeria Tennis Federation that provides platform for the selection of talented players that would represent

the country at the forthcoming Davis Cup, scheduled for July in Madagascar,” she said. “In line with the Corporate Social Responsibility programme of the CBN we wish to reaffirm our desire to support and promote the game of tennis in Nigeria.” Nigeria Tennis Federation’s vice president, Tayo Owoseni, said over 200 players would play in the preliminaries of the tournament before the main draw of 64 for men and 32 for women.

TUESDAY RESULTS

EURO 2016 Austria

0 - 2 Hungary

COPA AMERICA Mexico

1 - 1 Venezuela

Uruguay

3 - 0 Jamaica

WEDNESDAY FIXTURES EURO 2016 Romania

Switzerland

France

Albania

Russia

Slovakia

COPA AMERICA Chile

Panama

Argentina

Bolivia

WEDNESday, JUNE 15, 2016 NEW TELEGRAPH

NEWS 48On Marble

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N150

Direct primary elections

he Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu has come out forcefully to support the conduct of party primary nominations through direct primaries. He made this intervention at a Summit on Electoral Reform organized by the Senate Committee on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in collaboration with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) on Monday, June 6, 2016. The Deputy Senate President contended that: “To ensure that the process of nominating candidates is credible, transparent and democratic, candidates should emerge through direct primaries. This will reduce electoral disputes within the party and restore confidence and internal democracy”. He contended that “it also will enable candidates to meet with party members directly in soliciting for their votes and ultimately ensure that party members elect candidates directly, thereby giving power back to the people”. He therefore canvassed that section 87 of the Electoral Act “should be amended to make the conduct of direct primaries compulsory for all political parties”. Section 87 of the Electoral Act gives Political Parties the option of conducting their party primarily elections through direct or indirect primaries. Under the direct primaries, all the registered members of the party vote for candidates of their choice. This is done through popular mandate and makes all the party members direct participants in choosing their flag bearers for the various positions in their parties. On the other hand, indirect primaries allow political parties to choose their candidates through a process that involves statutory and elected delegates. At the end, the Electoral Act expects and insists that the Political Parties at the end of their party primary elections must submit the name of the candidate that scored the majority of lawful votes in the party primary elections as the candidate that must be sponsored in the main election. More specifically, section 87(2) of the Electoral Act provides that: “the procedure for the nomination of candidates by political parties for the various elective positions shall be direct or indirect primaries”. Therefore, a political party that adopts the direct primaries procedure shall ensure that all aspirants are given equal opportunity of being voted for by members of the party. On the other hand section 87(4) of the Electoral Act outlines the procedure that should be adopted by a party that elects to nominate its candidates by indirect primaries. Section 87(7) also provides that “A political party that adopts the system of indirect primaries for the choice of its candidates shall clearly outline in its constitution and rules the procedure for the democratic election of delegates to vote at the convention, congress or meeting”. I agree substantially with the sentiments and submissions of the Deputy Senate President regarding the place of direct primaries in the electoral process. I agree with him that direct primary essentially domiciles power

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

Ekweremadu

with the people and promotes transparency and accountability in the internal functioning of political parties. However, agreeing with the submissions of the Deputy Senate President does not mean that indirect primaries are not democratic. Indirect primaries are democratic because they are an alternative process of party nomination and party members play a role in electing delegates at various levels of the process. Other than statutory delegates as provided for in the constitution of some of the parties, other delegates to the convention, congress or meetings of the political parties for the purpose of choosing their candidates are elected. The reality of our party and democratic system is that most of the political parties in Nigeria adopt and prefer to conduct their party primaries using the indirect system. I know that the submissions of the Deputy Senate President were only an intervention but he did not give an insight into why most of the parties prefer the indirect party pri-

I know that the submissions of the Deputy Senate President were only an intervention

mary system of nominating their candidates. The case for indirect primaries and the case against direct primaries are purely Nigerian constructs. It is important to interrogate some of the issues against the conduct of direct primaries and see why some of the political parties favour the use of indirect primaries for their party nomination processes. It is the law that all the political parties reserve the option of using the direct or indirect election for their party primaries. But the truth is that most of the political parties are running away from the direct primary elections for a variety of reasons. Some of the reasons are genuine while the gravamen is that direct primaries have an element of surprise and uncertainty. You can buy up delegates and quarantine them in hotels, houses and in other places where they will not have contact with other candidates. You can buy up their membership cards and vote for them by proxy. But in direct primaries, it is difficult to control the flock and they may simply bolt away and vote for candidates of their choice. But can the political parties handle direct primary elections? My answer is that as presently constituted most of the parties do not have the capacity to handle direct primary elections. Direct primary election requires a clean, transparent and authentic membership register. I dare say that no political party in Nigeria can boast of an authentic, transparent, clean and up to date membership register. In fact some of the parties have no register and do not even know who their members are and where they are and what they do. Some of the parties have their ward membership register firmly deposited in government house. In some of the political parties it is the Governor that determines who a member is and removes the names of those in his view are not deserving of membership. Furthermore, a lot of “party members” in Nigeria are migratory, opportunistic and with shifty allegiance. Some of them belong to all the parties in Nigerian and have the membership card of all the dominant parties. They attend the rallies, meetings and functions of all the dominant parties and partake in things that accrue to party members. During direct party primaries they will attend the party primaries of all the parties and vote. More fundamentally, direct primary elections poses very serious security challenges for the parties, the security agencies and the Nigerian people. Without authentic membership register, aspirants and candidates can easily mobilize people with dual membership and people from other jurisdictions to overwhelm the actual members of the

party. Direct primaries and or stand alone primaries are akin to voting in a general election and most parties are not ready to deal with the security and logistic challenges involved. I agree that a lot of corruption and manipulation is involved in indirect primaries. Money bags and Governors simply buy the delegates and or exclude the delegates that may not be loyal to them. But can we still confidently assert that party primaries whether by direct or indirect means remains the main element in who is sponsored to contest elections by political parties in view of the provisions of section 31 of the Electoral Act? My answer is no. Section 31 of the Electoral Act provides that “Every political party shall, not later than 60 days before the date appointed for a general election under the provisions of this Act, submit to the Commission, in the prescribed forms, the list of the candidates the party proposes to sponsor at the elections, provided that the Commission shall not reject or disqualify candidate(s) for any reason whatsoever.” So whether the party conducts direct or indirect primaries and whether the Independent National Electoral Commission monitored or did not monitor the primaries, the list submitted by the party is sacrosanct and the electoral management body cannot question them. The National Assembly must delete the proviso to section 31(1) of the Electoral Act in order to bring some sanity to party nomination processes whether by direct or indirect means. Going forward, political parties in Nigeria must reform the process and procedure of their membership recruitment. They must use the current biometric registration process to capture their members. The register must be kept by the authorized organs of the party and should be authentic, transparent and acceptable to the party members. When this is achieved, it will then be possible for the parties to conduct direct primary elections.

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